Time Travel To These Iconic Sights
By Kim Windyka
You don’t have to hop in a time machine to experience another era. Just hit the road and take a step back in time with a visit to any of these way-back stops. Saddle shoes and poodle skirt optional!
Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, AZ)
Like the idea of “roughing it,” but not quite ready to brave the great outdoors? You might want to check out this kitschy motel on famed Route 66, which features 15 tepee-style rooms. A collection of vintage cars, permanently parked in the motel’s lot, really completes the time warp.
Drive-Thru Tree Park (Leggett, CA)
Forget climbing a tree – head to a retro park where you can drive through a giant Redwood! In business since 1922, this family-owned attraction in Northern California makes it easy and quick to view one of the majestic trees that make the area so beautiful … up close and personal. Talk about a photo-op!
Shea’s Gas Station Museum (Springfield, IL)
Another Route 66 gem, visitors can fuel up on gas station history and collectibles at Shea’s. More than just a look at how these roadside stops used to be, Shea’s tells a whole story of a simpler time through its memorabilia. It’s worth browsing the museum’s guest book: you’ll find visitors from all over the U.S. and the world.
Pink Cadillac Diner (Natural Bridge, VA)
The “Elvis burger” is the star of the menu at this appropriately rosy diner in Western Virginia, which is also chock-full of throwback decor, including celebrity cardboard cutouts and a classic jukebox. Don’t leave without picking up an official piece of Pink Cadillac merchandise, like a t-shirt or coffee mug.
Lucy Desi Museum and Desiland Studios (Jamestown, NY)
You might not have known that Lucille Ball hailed from Central New York, but this small museum and studio complex celebrates all things I Love Lucy: interactive exhibits, set props, costumes, and the comedienne’s many awards. Of course, the screening room also plays some of the funniest, most memorable scenes from the show.
Nau’s Enfield Drug (Austin, TX)
Those in the mood for an egg cream or a root beer float can sidle up to the counter or slide into one of the well-worn booths at Nau’s, an Austin institution since 1951. In addition to a soda fountain, patrons can dig into diner fare and even pick up sundries at the in-house pharmacy.
