Trace the footsteps of America’s first transcontinental highway on this remarkable 460-mile journey across Iowa. The Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway follows the historic route that once connected New York to San Francisco, offering travelers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of American road travel.

Stretching from the Missouri River near Council Bluffs to Clinton on Iowa’s eastern border, this National Scenic Byway traverses the heart of the Midwest. Rolling farmland unfolds in every direction, punctuated by charming small towns that time seems to have forgotten. Watch for original Lincoln Highway markers, vintage roadside attractions, and art deco architecture that harken back to the 1920s and 30s.

Key stops include the historic town of Belle Plaine with its preserved Lincoln Highway bridge, the iconic “Road to Tama” rainbow arch, and numerous locally-owned diners serving classic Midwestern comfort food. Don’t miss the Lincoln Highway interpretive centers that bring this pioneering route’s history to life.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers ideal driving conditions and vibrant green landscapes. Autumn brings spectacular harvest scenery.

Duration: Allow two to three days to fully appreciate the byway’s historic sites, small-town hospitality, and scenic countryside. This isn’t a drive to rush—it’s a journey to savor.

Explore Nearby

• Linn Run State Park — State Park in Pennsylvania
• Laurel Ridge State Park — State Park in Pennsylvania
• Shaffer’s Bridge — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania
• Bells Mills Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania
• South Hills — Public Land