Coast-to-Coast Journey Along One of America's Lengthiest Highways Unveils Historic Landmarks
U.S. Route 6, also known as the Grand Army of the Republic Highway, is one of the longest continuous transcontinental highways in the United States, stretching over 3,000 miles from Provincetown, Massachusetts, on the East Coast to its western terminus in California.
The Historic Beginnings in Provincetown
The journey commences in Provincetown, a picturesque town on the tip of Cape Cod. Here, Route 6 follows the original Route 6A, also known as Old King's Highway, a scenic byway that winds through historic New England villages and colonial-era homes. This contrasts with the modern multi-lane Mid-Cape Highway, which became the official Route 6 in the 1950s.
A Cross-Country Journey Through 14 States
Traveling westward, Route 6 passes through 14 states, offering a less crowded and historically rich alternative to the more famous Route 66. It traverses varied landscapes, from coastal towns to arid deserts, rugged mountains, expansive plains, and towering forests.
In the Northeast, Route 6 connects many smaller towns, providing access to local historic sites and natural features. Notable stops include Vermilion, Ohio, home to Big Ed's Main Street Soda Grill, a 1930s-style soda fountain located in a 19th-century dry goods store.
Highlights Along the Way
Other highlights include Ashland, Nebraska, an artsy community that was once a major crossroads for the Ox-Bow Trail, a 19th-century pioneer trail. In Rhode Island, the journey includes Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, which opened in 1872.
HGTV has designated Route 6A, the original byway of Route 6, as the perfect road trip to experience historic Cape Cod. Route 6A runs from Provincetown to the Cape Cod Canal, passing through picture-perfect New England villages and historic homes dating to the colonial era.
Embracing Americana
Some communities that once thrived as rest stops along Route 6 have faded into obscurity, while others have embraced their role in Americana. Major's Place in Nevada, for example, is an unincorporated community home to an old-time gas station turned eclectic bar and gathering place.
Planning Your Journey
For a more memorable journey, plan on six weeks instead of attempting to drive Route 6 non-stop end-to-end, which would take about 65 hours. A U.S. Park Pass grants entry to the driver and all passengers in the vehicle for national parks along the way, making it an ideal companion for this cross-country adventure.
Destinations Along the Way
The journey along Route 6 offers various destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, literature lovers, and history buffs alike. Bishop, California, is a year-round magnet for outdoor sports enthusiasts, a gateway to the Sierra Nevada and an access point to Mount Whitney, the highest summit in the contiguous United States.
Fans of literature may want to take a short detour in Hartford, Connecticut, to visit the Mark Twain House. Goodwin State Forest in Hampton, Connecticut, is a prime leaf-peeping spot in foliage season.
In summary, U.S. Route 6 offers a unique and historically rich journey across the United States, with highlights including its historic beginnings in Provincetown, its role as one of the longest east–west highways in the U.S., and its passage through varied landscapes and states. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a literature lover, or a history buff, Route 6 provides a memorable and diverse cross-country experience.
- For travel guides, a U.S. Park Pass can be an ideal companion, granting entry to national parks along the Route 6 journey and making it suited for a cross-country adventure.
- Fashion-and-beauty and lifestyle enthusiasts might want to take a short detour in Hartford, Connecticut, to visit the Mark Twain House, a testament to American literature.
- If you're a food-and-drink and fashion-and-beauty lover, be sure to stop in Nevada's Major's Place, an unincorporated community where an old-time gas station turned eclectic bar and gathering place showcases Americana charm.
