The Gemini Giant has been a staple landmark along Route 66 in Wilmington, Illinois, for many years, but this larger-than-life astronaut statue got a brand-new gift shop last year.
The Landing Pad gift shop opened just outside the Gemini Giant in May 2025, fully stocked with Gemini Giant and Route 66 memorabilia. For 2026, the store has Route 66 centennial-themed mugs, hats, T-shirts and stickers. Kirsten Van Duyne, executive director of the Wilmington Park District that runs the store, adds that there’s also just about “everything Gemini Giant” a customer might want.
After one year of business, the store has become a fun stop for Route 66 travelers. Many people take a selfie with the Gemini Giant statue, and Van Duyne says people can also make memories in the store with a fun photo station.
Van Duyne adds that the new store has been exciting for the town of Wilmington, and it’s been a fun stop for visitors to the Gemini Giant.
“Route 66 is important because of the visibility that it has given us and made us into a tourist town,” she says, noting that the new gift shop helps support the town as well. “All the dollars spent here at the store are being put back into the community to make this a fantastic stop on your journey.” |
