After Henry Ford’s Model T rolled off the assembly line in 1908, America needed to prepare for automobile travel. The Federal Aid Road Act of 1916 and the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1921 spurred America’s investment in paved roads. In 1926, the United States Numbered Highway System – or U.S. Highways – was established.
As auto technology improved with powered steering and brakes, air conditioning, and headlights, cars became capable of driving faster and farther in a single day. This advancement in technology made interstate travel a necessity.
In Jun 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956. The act of Congress created the Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways.
Today, we call them Interstate Highways.
Although Interstate Highways are not the most scenic drive and not my preferred route for a road trip, they are essential for traveling long distances quickly. Road trips to minor league baseball stadiums, capital cities, or a tour of the best national parks in the Rocky Mountains require travel on Interstate Highways.
List of Interstate Highways
Browse this list of Interstate Highways. Visit the Destinations page to search for Interstate Highways by region and state.
Travel Articles
Read the most recent travel articles about the scenic highways to find inspiration, road trip itineraries, and helpful information.