They say it’s not about the destination—it’s about the journey. And nowhere is that more true than along the Lincoln Highway. While some travelers speed past on their way to somewhere else, I’ve learned to slow down and appreciate the surprising, delightful, and downright quirky gems tucked along this historic route.

Here are a few of my personal favorites—some well-loved, others a bit off the beaten path—that never fail to charm, surprise, or bring a smile.

1. The Coffee Pot in Bedford, PA

Let’s start with a classic. This giant roadside coffee pot is a textbook example of “programmatic architecture”—and it’s impossible to miss. Originally built in 1927 to attract travelers, it’s now restored and sits proudly outside the Bedford County Fairgrounds. It’s quirky. It’s nostalgic. And it’s exactly the kind of oddity that makes road trips memorable.

2. Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium – Orrtanna, PA

Where else can you buy fudge, meet a life-sized elephant statue named Miss Ellie, and walk through a museum packed with over 12,000 elephant figurines? Mister Ed’s is a sugary, silly, unforgettable stop that delights both kids and grownups. You can’t help but smile when you’re surrounded by candy and kitsch.

3. Duppstadt’s Country Store – Buckstown, PA

This old-fashioned general store is a time capsule in the best possible way. Whether you're grabbing a snack, picking up a handmade goodie, or chatting with friendly locals, Duppstadt’s feels like stepping back into a simpler time. It’s a favorite stop to stretch your legs and stock up on small-town charm.

4. The Lincoln Highway Experience Museum – Latrobe, PA

Okay, yes—this one’s a little close to home. But hear me out! The museum isn’t just about exhibits—it’s an experience. From the restored 1938 Serro’s Diner to the vintage gas pumps and immersive audio tour, it’s a trip through time that reminds you how powerful the American road trip once was—and still is.

5. The Flight 93 National Memorial – Stoic and Soulful

This one is heavier, but it’s a stop I believe every traveler should make. The Tower of Voices is hauntingly beautiful, and the entire memorial invites quiet reflection. The contrast between this sacred space and the often-lighthearted roadside attractions is part of what makes the Lincoln Highway so deeply American.

6. Lincoln Highway HUB – North Versailles, PA

Located in a reinvented 1930s car dealership, the Lincoln Highway HUB is a one-of-a-kind curated thrift store where history and creativity collide. With vintage treasures, repurposed goods, and artistic flair, it’s the kind of place where every item seems to tell a story. It’s not a museum, but you just might leave feeling like you walked through one.

These are just a few of the spots I find myself revisiting, recommending, or remembering fondly. The beauty of the Lincoln Highway is that it’s constantly revealing new favorites—if you’re willing to pull over and explore.

What are your favorite Lincoln Highway gems?
Drop a comment or shoot me a message—I’d love to include reader picks in a future edition!