15 Iconic Road Trip Photos from the ‘60s

The 1960s were a golden era for the American road trip. With sprawling highways, classic cars, and a sense of adventure in the air, families and friends set out to explore the country like never before. These 15 vintage photos capture the essence of those cross-country journeys.

The Classic Family Station Wagon

This family wagon, complete with wood panels and a roof rack piled high with luggage, was a common sight in the 60s. Families would load their wagons and hit the highways, ready for an adventure. These cars were the ultimate road trip vehicles, offering plenty of space for kids, snacks, and souvenirs from every stop.

Scenic Route 66

Route 66, or the “Main Street of America,” was a favorite route for cross-country travelers in the 1960s. The historic highway, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, offered breathtaking scenery, quirky roadside attractions, and a sense of freedom. Travelers often stopped to snap photos at iconic landmarks like the Wigwam Motels and Cadillac Ranch.

Maps and Atlases

Before the era of GPS, maps and road atlases were essential tools for guiding during cross-country road trips. Often spread out on the car’s hood, people would plot their routes using these detailed guides. The process of map-reading added an element of adventure, with unexpected detours and discoveries along the way.

Roadside Diners and Drive-Ins

Stopping at a roadside diner or drive-in was a mandatory part of the road trip experience in those times. As can be seen, these eateries, often adorned with neon signs and offering classic American fare, were perfect for a quick meal or a relaxing break from the road. They served as social hubs where tourists could share stories and tips for the road ahead.

Car Trailers

Tourists would often hitch their trailers to the back of their cars and set off on the open road to bring along all the comforts of home. Aristocrat stood out as a leading RV manufacturer in the United States. Despite being in business for less than twenty years, Aristocrat’s trailers were constructed with high-quality metals for optimal durability.

Roadside Attractions

Apart from the scenic views, travelers often spotted several roadside attractions. Towering statues of Paul Bunyan, shops shaped like giant teapots, or mysterious gravity-defying structures became the unplanned highlights of many journeys. They were perfect for stretching legs, snapping photos, and adding a touch of whimsy to the trip.

Music and Car-Radios

Music was an indispensable companion on any road trip. Parents and children often sang along to their favorite songs while teenagers cranked up the radio and blasted the latest hits. The open road and the rhythm of the music created a perfect harmony.

Gas Stations and Service Stops

Don’t be surprised when we tell you a stop at the gas station was more than a place to fill the tank during road trips. Gas stations were social hubs where people could grab snacks and chat with locals. Attendants would pump your gas, check your oil, and even wash your windshield. It was a simpler time when customer service was a priority.

Roadside Picnic Areas

There were popular spots along the highways where one could enjoy a meal. These rest stops often featured picnic tables, barbecue grills, and scenic views. Sightseers would unpack their coolers, lay out a spread of sandwiches and snacks, and enjoy some quality time together before continuing their journey.

Drive-In Movie Theatres

Drive-in movie theaters were a popular evening entertainment option in the 1960s. Watching a film under the star-filled sky all from the comfort of your car was a unique experience. These places offered a perfect way to unwind after a day on the road, with the bonus of enjoying classic films and snack bar treats.

Roadside Motels

Such motels provided affordable accommodations for families on the go. With their distinctive architecture and neon signs, these motels were a well-known symbol of the American road trip. Many motels featured swimming pools, offering a refreshing way to unwind after a long day of driving.

Camper Vans

In the 1960s, camper vans became popular for road trippers seeking a home on wheels. The vehicles offered a unique blend of transportation and accommodation for people to explore the country with all the comforts of home. Campers came equipped with sleeping quarters, a small kitchen, and often even a pop-up roof; they provided a cozy and convenient way to travel.

Camping Under the Stars

For many roadtrippers, camping was an essential part of the journey. Setting tents in national parks or picturesque lakes allowed them to immerse themselves in nature. Campfires, marshmallow roasts, and nights under the stars were highlights of these adventures.

The Unexpected Breakdown

No road trip was complete without at least one breakdown. Whether it was a flat tire, an overheating engine, or a dead battery, these unexpected challenges were just part of the experience. It was a chance to test your problem-solving skills and your patience.

Polaroid Cameras and Instant Memories

Polaroid cameras were a popular gadget, and people often stopped carrying one during these trips, allowing them to capture instant memories along the way. These cameras provided immediate gratification, with photos developing right before your eyes. Snapping Polaroids at each stop added a fun and tangible element to documenting the journey.