FOLLOW THE LANDSCAPE. DISCOVER THE STORY.

Historic National Road

America’s stories are written into its landscapes.
Header: Fox Run S-Bridge · Public Domain. Photo by A. E. Crane · Photo credits
PLACES THAT KEEP THE PAST CLOSE

A story worth following.

The Historic National Road was the nation's first federally funded interstate highway. It opened the nation to the west and became a corridor for the movement of goods and people. Today, visitors experience a physical timeline, including classic inns, tollhouses, diners, and motels that trace 200 years of American history.

The Fox Run S-Bridge has been resurfaced with red bricks. It represents an original portion of the Historic National Road.
Fox Run S-Bridge
Public Domain. Photo by A. E. Crane
A few people walk west near the Fox Run S-Bridge on the original alignment of the National Road in Ohio.
Near the Fox Run Bridge on the National Road
Public Domain. Photo by A. E. Crane
BUILD YOUR OWN CHAPTER

Places to begin

    Suggested starting points, not a turn-by-turn route. Choose a manageable local section; stops may be far apart.

    Make the visit work for you

    Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

    Give the story time

    Allow time for interpretation, a short walk and conversations. One well-chosen historic place can be more rewarding than a rushed list of stops.

    Bring your group comfortably

    Confirm parking, restrooms, walking surfaces and group reservations with each site. A historic trail designation does not guarantee coach access.

    Official visitor information ↗

    U.S. visits only. Historic routes may cross private property or have disconnected public sections. Official links provide current maps, access and operating information. Photographs may show earlier conditions.