The Lincoln Highway: Paving the Way Across America
Roads in America Before 1912
In 1912, the United States had few roads suitable for automobiles. Of the 2.5 million miles of roads, most were unpaved dirt—bumpy and dusty in dry weather, and nearly impassable when wet. The few “improved” roads were typically found near towns and cities and were considered upgraded if they had been graded. Gravel or brick surfaces were rare luxuries, while concrete and tarmac had yet to be introduced.
Even more problematic, these roads often didn’t connect settlements. Instead, they radiated outward from town centers without forming a coherent network. For long-distance travel, trains remained the most reliable

The Birth of the Lincoln Highway
The Lincoln Highway changed everything. Conceived as the first improved transcontinental automobile road in the United States, it stretched from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco, California, covering over 3,400 miles and passing through 13 states.
This ambitious project marked a turning point in American infrastructure, offering a continuous route for motorists across the country. Today, portions of the Lincoln Highway are designated as a National Scenic Byway in Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, and as state byways in western Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. The route also continues through New York, New Jersey, West Virginia, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California, though these segments are not officially designated as byways.
A Tribute to Abraham Lincoln
More than just a road, the Lincoln Highway was also the first national memorial to President Abraham Lincoln, established nine years before the dedication of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., in 1922. It was a symbolic and practical tribute to Lincoln’s legacy, reflecting the spirit of unity and progress.
"The Main Street Across America"
As the first automobile road to span the continent, the Lincoln Highway brought prosperity to hundreds of cities, towns, and villages along its path. Businesses flourished, tourism grew, and communities became more connected. The highway earned the affectionate nickname “The Main Street Across America”, symbolizing its central role in shaping the nation’s road culture and economy.

Day 1 of 19: From Times Square to Philadelphia – The Start of the Lincoln Highway
Start each day with a full tank of fuel.
The eastern terminus of the Lincoln Highway is located in Times Square, New York City. From this iconic starting point, the highway stretches across 13 states and approximately 3,400 miles, ending at Lincoln Park in San Francisco, California. Along the way, it passes through the heart of small-town America, offering a rich tapestry of history and culture.
Leaving New York and crossing into New Jersey, travelers encounter the first state line of the journey. During the early days of the Lincoln Highway, the route through Newark, NJ was already the busiest roadway in the country—a testament to the growing importance of automobile travel.
Continuing westward, the highway passes through the university town of Princeton, where American history begins to unfold. One notable landmark is the Princeton Battle Monument, which commemorates the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777. In this pivotal Revolutionary War encounter, George Washington led his troops to a surprising victory, proving that his amateur army could stand against British forces.
The day concludes in Philadelphia, the third state visited on this leg of the journey. The city is steeped in American history and offers several must-see sites:
Independence Hall: Known as the birthplace of the United States, this historic building is where both the Declaration of Independence (1776) and the U.S. Constitution (1787) were debated and signed. Entry is free, though a $1 administrative fee applies per ticket.
The Liberty Bell: A powerful symbol of American freedom, the Liberty Bell is housed in the Liberty Bell Center, which spans nearly an entire city block on 6th Street between Market and Chestnut Streets. Visitors can view the bell from both inside and outside the center.
Museum of the American Revolution: Located at 101 South Third Street, this museum opened in 2017 and features thousands of artifacts, including artwork, textiles, weapons, manuscripts, and rare books. It explores the enduring relevance of the American Revolution (1765–1783). Admission is $24 for adults (as of June 2024).
For those who enjoy walking tours, several companies offer 75-minute guided experiences covering more than 20 historic sites, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. These tours span 1.25 miles and provide a deeper look into the city’s revolutionary past. I would actually recommend going to the hotel first and then walk to the HIstoric Section

This 4 star day is day one of an epic adventure that tracks history of the United States as well as the history of cross country travel