Wilmington, Illinois: Gemini Giant: Space Age Muffler Man (In Transition)

The Gemini Giant and Launching Pad Diner have had new owners -- Holly Barker and Tully Garrett -- for almost a year when we visited in September 2018. The couple is extremely nice, incredibly friendly, and has been working hard.

The former diner has been converted into a giant Route 66 / Gemini Giant / pop culture souvenir shop (Including autographed guitars and framed canceled checks signed by 1960s Hollywood stars). Outside is a food truck selling tacos and such, which you can bring inside to enjoy at a booth.

Behind the scenes we saw the hard work that they're putting into getting their kitchen back up and running, hopefully by Summer 2019.

The American Gemini Giant Statue is a retrofitted Muffler Man in a space helmet, holding a Launching Pad rocket. Route 66 signs, old and new, are displayed here.

This Muffler Man seems a bit rough, the paint a bit cracked here and there, but other than that still in good shape! The restaurant (Launching Pad) is closed and for sale.

The Gemini Giant is still there, although the Launching Pad restaurant stands empty.

The Gemini Giant and the Launching Pad Restaurant will be going to auction on April 8, 2016. This is a sad time for the people of Wilmington who hope so much for a miracle!