Historic Route 20 Map

If you’re planning a road trip through the United States, you won’t want to miss Historic Route 20. Stretching over 3,000 miles, this iconic highway takes travelers through charming towns, breathtaking scenery, and fascinating historical sites.

Top Attractions

As you make your way along Historic Route 20, there are a few standout attractions you won’t want to miss. In Chicago, stop by Millennium Park to see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture and catch a free outdoor concert in the summer. In Cleveland, visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the history of this quintessential American art form. And in Yellowstone National Park, marvel at the geysers, hot springs, and wildlife that make this one of the most unique destinations in the country.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, some of the best experiences on Historic Route 20 are the lesser-known spots that only locals know about. In Dubuque, Iowa, check out the quirky National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. In New York’s Finger Lakes region, take a detour to Watkins Glen State Park to see stunning waterfalls and hike through a gorge. And in the tiny town of Wallace, Idaho, explore the historic mining district and stop by the Center of the Universe for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Food Scene

One of the best ways to experience a new place is through its food, and Historic Route 20 has plenty of delicious options to choose from. In Rochester, New York, try a classic “garbage plate” from Nick Tahou Hots, or indulge in a gourmet meal at the acclaimed restaurant Lento. In Sioux City, Iowa, grab some barbecue at Sneaky’s Chicken, or enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at M’s on 4th. And in Seattle, Washington, explore the city’s famous food trucks and seafood markets for a taste of the Pacific Northwest.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save money on your Historic Route 20 trip. Consider camping instead of staying in hotels, or try couchsurfing to meet locals and get a free place to stay. Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks to save money on meals, and look for free or low-cost activities in each town you visit. And if you’re renting a car, try to find a local rental company instead of a big national chain for better rates.

Outdoor Adventures

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Historic Route 20 is a dream come true. In Montana’s Bitterroot Valley, go hiking, fishing, or horseback riding in the stunning wilderness. In South Dakota’s Badlands National Park, take a scenic drive through the otherworldly landscape and spot bison, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep. And in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, ski, snowboard, or snowshoe at one of the many world-class resorts.

Historical Landmarks

As the name suggests, Historic Route 20 is rich in history. From Chicago’s Pullman National Monument to the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City, Oregon, there are countless landmarks and museums to explore along the way. Learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition at the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Nebraska, or visit the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln in Hodgenville, Kentucky.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? No problem. Historic Route 20 has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. In Cleveland, visit the Great Lakes Science Center to learn about space, technology, and the natural world. In Wisconsin Dells, take a thrilling ride on one of the many water slides and roller coasters at the amusement parks. And in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, go on a farm tour and pick fresh fruit at one of the many u-pick farms in the area.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something truly unique, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had on Historic Route 20. In South Dakota, explore the mysterious and otherworldly formations at the Badlands Petrified Gardens. In Wyoming, take a detour to visit the World’s Largest Jackalope in Douglas. And in New York, visit the abandoned ghost town of Centralia, which has been on fire for over 50 years.

Natural Wonders

From the Great Lakes to the Rocky Mountains, Historic Route 20 takes travelers through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. In Utah’s Arches National Park, hike through stunning red rock formations and see the famous Delicate Arch up close. In Wisconsin, take a scenic drive along the Great River Road and see the mighty Mississippi River in all its glory. And in Washington, take a ferry to the San Juan Islands to see orcas, seals, and bald eagles in their natural habitat.

Vibrant Nightlife

Just because you’re on a road trip doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the nightlife. In Chicago, catch a show at the famous Second City comedy club or head to the Green Mill for some live jazz. In Madison, Wisconsin, explore the vibrant bar scene on State Street, or visit the iconic Brat Fest in the summer. And in Seattle, check out the city’s famous music venues, like the Showbox or the Crocodile, for a night of live music.

Local Markets

For a taste of local culture, be sure to visit the farmers markets and artisanal shops along Historic Route 20. In Rochester, New York, visit the Rochester Public Market for fresh produce, meats, and baked goods, or check out the Eastman Museum Store for unique gifts and souvenirs. In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, explore the Falls Park Farmers Market for handmade crafts and local produce. And in Seattle, visit the famous Pike Place Market for fresh seafood, flowers, and crafts.

Beaches and Mountains

Whether you prefer the beach or the mountains, Historic Route 20 has something for everyone. In Indiana, visit the stunning sand dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park for a day of swimming, hiking, and picnicking. In Utah, head to Park City for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country. And in Washington, visit the Olympic Peninsula for a mix of rugged coastline and lush rainforest.

Cultural Immersion

One of the best things about road trips is the opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. In Iowa City, Iowa, visit the Prairie Lights bookstore and cafe for a taste of the city’s literary scene. In Buffalo, New York, explore the city’s thriving arts district and visit the Albright-Knox Art Gallery for world-class contemporary art. And in Seattle, visit the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience for a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse communities.

Art and Music Scene

From street art to symphonies, Historic Route 20 has a vibrant arts and music scene to explore. In Dubuque, Iowa, check out the Dubuque Museum of Art for a look at the city’s rich artistic history. In Buffalo, New York, catch a performance by the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra or visit the Burchfield Penney Art Center for contemporary art. And in Seattle, explore the city’s famous street art scene and visit the Museum of Pop Culture for a look at the history of music and pop culture.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to see a new city is on foot, and Historic Route 20 has plenty of walking tours to choose from. In Cleveland, take the Historic Warehouse District Walking Tour to learn about the city’s industrial history and architecture. In Madison, Wisconsin, explore the city’s famous State Street and Capitol Square on a guided tour. And in San Francisco, California, take the famous Alcatraz Island Walking Tour to learn about the notorious prison and its famous inmates.

Architectural Marvels

From Art Deco to Gothic Revival, Historic Route 20 takes travelers through some of the most stunning architectural marvels in the country. In Chicago, visit the iconic Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) for a bird’s-eye view of the city. In Cleveland, explore the stunning Cleveland Arcade, a Victorian-era shopping mall that has been converted into a hotel. And in Seattle, visit the famous Space Needle for a glimpse of the city’s futuristic skyline.

Historical Sites

With over 3,000 miles of road to cover, it’s no surprise that Historic Route 20 is home to countless historical sites and monuments. In Nebraska, visit the Chimney Rock National Historic Site to learn about the pioneers who traveled along the Oregon Trail. In New York, explore the Fort Stanwix National Monument, which played a key role in the Revolutionary War. And in Wyoming, visit the Fossil Butte National Monument to see fossils of ancient animals that once roamed the area.

Biking Routes

If you’re a cycling enthusiast, Historic Route 20 has plenty of scenic biking routes to explore. In Wisconsin, take the Elroy-Sparta State Trail, a converted rail trail that takes