14 of the Oldest Roadside Landmarks in the U.S. You Can Still Visit
Traveling across the United States offers a treasure trove of historic roadside landmarks that testify to the country’s rich and diverse heritage. These sites, many of which have stood the test of time, provide travelers with a glimpse into the past, showcasing architectural marvels, cultural milestones, and the evolution of American society.
Exploring these historic landmarks is like opening a time capsule, revealing tales of innovation, resilience, and community spirit. So, pack your bags, fuel up your vehicle, and get ready to discover some of the oldest roadside attractions in the U.S. that you can still visit today.
Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, Texas
Established in 1974, Cadillac Ranch features a series of half-buried, graffiti-covered Cadillacs standing nose-first in the ground. This public art installation has become an iconic roadside attraction, inviting visitors to add their spray-painted designs to the ever-changing canvas.
Route 66 Landmarks – Across Multiple States
Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 has historic roadside attractions that have welcomed travelers since the highway’s establishment in 1926. Notable stops include the Gemini Giant in Illinois, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, and Cadillac Ranch in Texas. Each landmark offers a glimpse into the quirky and creative spirit that characterizes America’s most famous highway.
Lucy the Elephant – Margate City, New Jersey
Standing tall since 1881, Lucy the Elephant is a six-story elephant-shaped structure made of wood and tin sheeting. Built by real estate developer James Lafferty, Lucy was designed to attract potential property buyers to the area. Over the years, she has served various purposes, including a restaurant, a business office, and a cottage. Today, Lucy is celebrated as the oldest surviving example of “zoomorphic” architecture and welcomes visitors as a historic landmark.
Plymouth Rock – Plymouth, Massachusetts
Plymouth Rock is often considered the oldest tourist attraction in the United States. This simple yet iconic rock was traditionally recognized as the landing site of the Pilgrims in 1620. While its historical accuracy is debated, Plymouth Rock symbolizes the nation’s founding and draws countless visitors interested in America’s early colonial history.
Indian Stones – Reading, Vermont
Erected in 1799, the Indian Stones are among the oldest commemorative markers in the United States. These two slate markers were placed to commemorate a 1754 Native American raid during which Susannah Willard Johnson gave birth while being held captive. The stones stand as a poignant reminder of the area’s turbulent past and the resilience of its early settlers.
Petersburg Tollhouse – Addison, Pennsylvania
Built in 1835, the Petersburg Tollhouse is one of the few remaining tollhouses from the National Road, America’s first federally funded highway. Travelers once stopped here to pay tolls while journeying westward. Preserved as a historic site, the tollhouse offers insight into early transportation and commerce in the United States.
Leyden Street – Plymouth, Massachusetts
Laid out in 1620 by the Pilgrims, Leyden Street is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the Thirteen Colonies. It was initially named First Street and then later called Great and Broad Street before it was named Leyden Street in 1823. Walking along this historic thoroughfare, visitors can imagine the early days of the Plymouth colony and the beginnings of American society.
Georgia Welcome Center – Sylvania, Georgia
Established in 1961, the Georgia Welcome Center in Sylvania is reportedly the oldest roadside welcome center in the U.S. and is still in operation. Serving as a gateway for travelers entering Georgia, the center offers insights into the state’s attractions and history and embodies the tradition of Southern hospitality.
Elfreth’s Alley – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Elfreth’s Alley, dating back to 1703, is America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street. Named after blacksmith Jeremiah Elfreth, the alley features 32 historic houses that showcase early American architecture. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone street and explore the Elfreth’s Alley Museum to learn about the lives of past residents.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa – Catoosa, Oklahoma
Built in the early 1970s as an anniversary gift, the Blue Whale of Catoosa is a beloved Route 66 landmark. This smiling, blue concrete whale has served as a picnic area and swimming spot, delighting travelers with its whimsical charm.
Amboy, California – A Route 66 Revival
Once a bustling stop along Route 66, Amboy became a ghost town after the construction of Interstate 40. However, thanks to the efforts of Albert Okura, founder of a Southern California chicken restaurant chain, Amboy has been revitalized. Okura purchased the town in 2005 and worked to restore its buildings to make it a tourist destination once again. Today, visitors can experience a classic desert town that captures the spirit of America’s Mother Road.
St. Augustine, Florida – The Oldest City
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. The city boasts a rich history, evident in its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos. Recognized as one of the friendliest travel destinations in the country, St. Augustine offers a charming blend of historic allure and modern amenities.
The Wigwam Motels – Holbrook, Arizona, and San Bernardino, California
These motels, built in the 1930s and 1940s, offer a nostalgic lodging experience. Their guest rooms are designed to resemble Native American teepees. The Wigwam Motels testify to the novelty architecture that once dotted America’s highways.
Meteor Crater – Winslow, Arizona
Formed around 50,000 years ago, Meteor Crater is one of Earth’s best-preserved meteorite impact sites. Visitors can explore the crater’s rim, visit the interactive discovery center, and learn about the cosmic event that shaped this natural landmark.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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