World's Largest Catsup Bottle
A 70-foot-tall water tower shaped like a Brooks 'catsup' bottle, a quirky and iconic stop on Historic Route 66 in Illinois.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for photos and visibility
World's Largest Catsup Bottle
Best Time
Best for photos and visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 70-foot-tall water tower shaped like a Brooks 'catsup' bottle, a quirky and iconic stop on Historic Route 66 in Illinois.
"It's a cute water tower designed to look like a ketchup bottle! Worth a little time off your journey. "
📸 Best Photo Spot
Park at the nearby BP station for the optimal photo opportunity of the giant catsup bottle. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Quick Detour
It's a fun, quick stop off the highway. Worth the slight deviation if you're a fan of roadside attractions. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Bottle
Collinsville, Illinois
A towering 70-foot tribute to Brooks 'catsup,' this water tower is a must-see roadside marvel.
Route 66 Nostalgia
Along Historic Route 66
A quintessential stop for any Route 66 road trip, offering a quirky piece of Americana.
Catsup Bottle Festival
Collinsville, Illinois
If your visit coincides, experience the annual festival celebrating this unique landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'Catsup' Charm
Photo Ops & Quick Stops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spot
Park at the nearby BP station for the optimal photo opportunity of the giant catsup bottle. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Quick Detour
It's a fun, quick stop off the highway. Worth the slight deviation if you're a fan of roadside attractions. :car:
📜 Historical Context
Learn about its history and the Brooks 'catsup' branding at the entrance of a nearby business. :scroll:
🏷️ Festival Fun
Check the dates for the annual Catsup Bottle Festival for a lively community event!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spot
Park at the nearby BP station for the optimal photo opportunity of the giant catsup bottle. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Quick Detour
It's a fun, quick stop off the highway. Worth the slight deviation if you're a fan of roadside attractions. :car:
📜 Historical Context
Learn about its history and the Brooks 'catsup' branding at the entrance of a nearby business. :scroll:
🏷️ Festival Fun
Check the dates for the annual Catsup Bottle Festival for a lively community event!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the World's Largest Catsup Bottle a charming and worthwhile quick stop, especially for Route 66 travelers. While parking can be a minor inconvenience due to its location at an active plant, most agree it's a fun photo opportunity and a unique piece of Americana. Some question its 'world's largest' claim but appreciate its novelty.
"The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle has been on my bucket list for a while, and I was so excited to finally see it in person! Such a quirky, fun roadside attraction. Just note that there isn’t a dedicated spot to pull over for photos—it’s right next to a factory, so we pulled into that lot for a quick look. Worth the stop if you love unique landmarks or are on a road trip through Illinois!"
L Grabb
"This is a cool attraction located outside of what looked like an operating warehouse, so we didn’t pull in, but it looks like there is a placard and a sign about the Catsup Bottle. Instead we pulled off into a residential area across the street and walked over to take a picture since we didn’t really see any parking closer. Still a cool sight, but didn’t really feel like an attraction to actually stop for."
Garrett Drake
"Another pretty lame but highly iconic landmark in this small town. There is a picnic table underneath and no easily accessible parking lot unless you want to violate a few traffic laws."
Michael Richardson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Located in Collinsville, Illinois, it's easily accessible from I-55/I-70. Many travelers find it by following signs for Route 66.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark visible from the road. It's situated at the entrance of an active plant, so be mindful of your surroundings.
Many visitors recommend pulling into the lot of a nearby business, like the BP gas station, for the best photo opportunities without disrupting plant operations.
Absolutely! The World's Largest Catsup Bottle is a beloved stop along the historic Route 66, adding to its nostalgic appeal.
Yes, the area offers other Route 66 attractions and a local distillery/brewery that sometimes features related merchandise.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to view the exterior of the World's Largest Catsup Bottle. It's a roadside attraction meant for quick viewing and photos.
As it's an outdoor landmark and water tower, it's accessible 24/7. However, daytime is best for visibility and photography.
There is no admission fee to see the World's Largest Catsup Bottle. It's a free roadside attraction.
No, the World's Largest Catsup Bottle is a functional water tower and is not open for public interior tours.
Some local businesses near the bottle offer historical information. The annual Catsup Bottle Festival also provides details.
📸 📸 Photography
Daylight hours offer the best lighting for clear, vibrant photos. Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light.
From the BP gas station lot, you can get a great full shot. Experiment with different angles to capture its immense scale.
It's best to avoid parking directly at the plant entrance. Use designated nearby parking areas for safety and respect.
Try 'World's Largest Catsup Bottle,' 'Brooks Catsup Bottle,' 'Route 66 attraction,' or 'giant catsup bottle' for your photo tags.
Generally, no. However, be respectful of the active plant and any private property you might be on for photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't dining options directly at the bottle, Collinsville and nearby towns offer various eateries, including diners and fast food.
You might find Brooks 'catsup' or related merchandise at local shops or the distillery/brewery in town.
Yes, the annual festival typically features food vendors offering local treats and festival favorites.
Collinsville has a mix of classic American diners and fast-food options. Look for local recommendations for the best experience.
There are no designated picnic areas directly at the World's Largest Catsup Bottle. You'd need to find a park or public space elsewhere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Bring your camera for memorable family photos! While there are no playgrounds or specific kid-focused amenities, the novelty of the giant bottle is usually enough to entertain younger travelers for a short while. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options are not directly on-site.
🚗 Route 66 Enthusiasts
+1Must-do: Capture that classic Route 66 photo with the giant bottle as your backdrop. Take a moment to appreciate the history and the unique branding that sets this landmark apart.
📸 Roadside Attraction Aficionados
Pro-tip: Combine your visit with other roadside giants in the region for an epic road trip. The unique spelling and historical context make it a standout among other large-scale attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Giant on Route 66
The decision to spell it 'catsup' rather than 'ketchup' is a deliberate nod to the brand's historical packaging, adding another layer of intrigue to this giant bottle. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of roadside Americana and the creativity of businesses looking to make a splash.
For many, visiting the bottle is a bucket-list item, a chance to capture a unique photograph and experience a piece of American road trip culture. Its placement along the Mother Road ensures it continues to be a point of interest for generations of travelers.
Practicalities for Your Visit
While the bottle itself is the main draw, there are often informational displays or local businesses nearby that offer insights into its history and the Brooks brand. Some travelers have noted that a local distillery or brewery also carries 'catsup tower' merchandise, offering a unique souvenir.
If your visit aligns with the World's Largest Catsup Bottle Festival, you're in for a treat. This annual event celebrates the landmark with community activities, food, and a festive atmosphere, providing a deeper dive into local culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit