Once upon a time, the nation was not crisscrossed with interstate highways. Instead, roads like the National Road were the routes you took to get places. As such, there were plenty of motels, truck stops and diners for the weary traveler to stop and take a load off for a meal or for the night.
The construction of I-70 to parallel the National Road all but killed businesses and towns along this route. There are still a number of interesting things to see and do along this road and nothing makes my heart sing quite like going out to find them.
I have traveled it through all of Indiana, Ohio and part of Pennsylvania. One of these days I’m going to see the whole thing.
Meanwhile here’s an old motel near Norwich, Ohio. The Siesta Motel dates to the fifties. It’s been closed for a while but the sign is still fantastic.
You might see it if you visit John Glenn’s home place in New Concord (which I just realized I haven’t told you about) or the National Road Zane Grey Museum.
Make the Journey Fun 