The Lincoln Highway, America’s first automobile highway from coast to coast, offers a memorable journey through the nation’s center. Once the pinnacle of freedom, ingenuity, and the American wide road, this famous highway stretches more than 3,000 miles from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco. To plan a road trip down the Lincoln Highway today is to enter a rolling museum where history meets oddball roadside Americana, quirky little burgs and ever-changing scenery. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Lincoln Highway vacation, if you’re planning an epic road trip that marries nostalgia with modern travel.
Planning a Lincoln Highway Road Trip Today
The first cross-country road in the United States built exclusively for automobiles was the Lincoln highway, established in 1913. It changed the way we travel on the road and stood for progress and unity in the early 20th century, crossing 13 states. This popular route, named after President Abraham Lincoln, was the original inspiration for the creation of the United States’ grand system of highways.
A significant portion remains intact and marked in parts as a result of the work of the Lincoln Highway Association to identify and retain all portions of the official route, though many of the early roadways have been replaced or abandoned with the coming of the Interstate system.
Lincoln Highway Road Trips : Highlights
| Route Overview | Historic coast-to-coast highway from NYC to San Francisco |
| Established | 1913, first U.S. transcontinental road for automobiles |
| Total Distance | Approx. 3,389 miles |
| Trip Duration (Full) | 2–3 weeks leisurely, 10–14 days quicker pace |
| Best Travel Time | May to October (Spring to Fall) |
| Popular Short Sections | NY–PA, IL–IA, UT–CA |
| Attractions | Museums, murals, diners, old gas stations, roadside Americana |
| Major Highlights | Lincoln Park, Tama Bridge, Gettysburg, Times Square, Ely, and Donner Pass |
| Navigation Tools | GPS apps, Lincoln Highway Association maps, Roadtrippers, physical maps |
| Packing Essentials | Water, snacks, maps, emergency kit, camera, charger |
| Travel Tip | Slow down and enjoy unplanned detours they’re often the best part! |
Why Travel Today on the Lincoln Highway?
The Lincoln Highway provides an opportunity to slow down, investigate, and establish a connection with the past that is not possible on today’s fast-paced, GPS-enabled interstates. Here are some reasons to think about it:
- Immersion in culture in small-town America.
- Roadside sights worth taking pictures of and historic motels.
- Civil War-era locations and historic landmarks.
- Various terrains, including mountains, deserts, farms, and forests.
- A distinct spirit of adventure on the less-traveled path.
This trip promises something remarkable for anyone interested in history, photography, or simply wanting to escape the everyday grind.
Mapping Your Route For Lincoln Highway Road Trip
Due to rerouting and urban growth, it might be challenging to follow the original route along the 3,389-mile Lincoln Highway. To arrange your journey:
- Take use of the Lincoln Highway Association’s interactive maps or in-depth guides.
- Roadtrippers and Google My Maps are two apps that can assist with stop mapping.
- Choose between traveling the entire coast to coast or just a portion of it.
Some well-liked passages are:
- Pittsburgh to New York: Pennsylvania Dutch Country and Urban History
- From Illinois to Iowa: Lincoln Highway bridges and traditional Midwest charm
- From Nevada to California: untamed deserts, mountains, and ancient mining settlements
How much time does it take to get there?
How much of the Lincoln Highway you intend to travel and your preferred speed will determine how long your road trip will last. If you want to travel slowly and have plenty of time to view the sights and experience the local way of life, it is advised that you allow two to three weeks for the entire coast-to-coast trip. The journey can be completed in 10 to 14 days if you have a strict timetable, but there will be fewer stops and detours.Shorter itineraries such as weekend vacations or four to five day road trips can nevertheless provide a great experience if you’re only visiting particular route segments.
The Ideal Time to Go For Lincoln Highway Road Trip
The best time to take a road trip along the Lincoln Highway is:
- May to October: Beautiful scenery, open attractions, and pleasant weather
- Fall (September–October): The East and Midwest see breathtaking foliage.Steer clear of high-altitude or northern areas during the winter, as they may get snow.
To improve your trip, keep an eye out for regional celebrations and activities.
Insider Advice to Make Your Road Trip Better
- Take your time: The journey, not the destination, is what the Lincoln Highway is all about.
- Speak with locals: Local tales give your visit more nuance.
- Visit the welcome centers: They frequently include old brochures and maps.
- Look for signage: In many places, Lincoln Highway signs are still present.
- Encourage tiny companies: Shop in town centers and eat at neighborhood eateries.
FAQs On Planning a Lincoln Highway Road Trip Today
- What is the Lincoln Highway’s length?
- It spans 13 U.S. states and more than 3,000 miles.
- Can you still get on the old Lincoln Highway?
- Yes, although I think maybe some parts go on modem roads, the primary most of it is still drivable.
- How does it compare to Route 66?
- The original Lincoln Highway crosses the heartland east to west.
- Is the motorway signposted well?
- Maps or a GPS route are helpful but some sections are signposted.
- Will it have seasonal events?
- Sure, there are plenty of local fairs and summer festivals.
- Can I travel in the autumn?
- Yes particularly in the east and Midwest because of the autumn color.