There are many highways across the United States, but a few are more well known than others. From the Pacific Coast Highway to Blue Ridge Parkway, there are miles of concrete for Americans to venture down. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular historic highways stretching across the landscape of the U.S.
Historic Route 66,
also known as the Mother Road
A list of historic highways wouldn’t be complete without the mention of Route 66. In 1926, construction on the now famous highway began. However, the Great Depression delayed its completion, and it finally opened in 1938. Upon its unveiling, it became the first stretch of road that connected Los Angeles to Chicago by following a route through rural communities. While no longer considered the “super-highway” it was back in the day, the route still exists as a two-lane highway with tourist shops, motels, and other attractions dotted along the road.
Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is well known as Route 1 in California. Weaving along the Pacific Coast from the state’s southern part to its forested north, the popular route includes other major roadways, including San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway and Big Sur Coast Highway. While driving along the highway, drivers will encounter rocky sea cliffs, glittering ocean views, and a number of historic landmarks. Additionally, along the route are major cities, such as San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
The Lincoln Highway
Construction of the Lincoln Highway first began in 1912 as short pieces of about a mile in length to prove to investors and the public that paved roads really were the way of the future. Fortunately, the idea of paved roads gained traction, and the country’s very first paved highway was constructed. The historic highway is still in use today. A portion of it, stretching from the eastern border of Indiana to west of the Mississippi River, is actually a National Scenic Byway. The route passes a variety of scenic trails and historic sites, ideal for the road trip enthusiast.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Weaving throughout meadows, farmlands, and mountains between Virginia and North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 450-mile stretch of highway that was completed in 1983. Originally part of a plan to offer more work opportunities to the public during the Great Depression, it actually connects Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to North Carolina’s Great Smokey Mountains National Park.
Historic Columbia River Highway
The Historic Columbia River Highway, completed in 1922, is well known as the oldest scenic highway in the country. It runs along the Columbia River, passing waterfalls, beautiful overlooks, and a variety of different landscapes. In 2000, it was also designated as a National Historic Landmark.