US Route 6: A Historic Coast-to-Coast Journey
From 1937 to 1964, US Route 6 connected Provincetown, Massachusetts, with Long Beach, California. Known as the Grand Army of the Republic Highway, this historic road crossed 14 states, linking coastal communities, small towns, farmland, mountains, and desert landscapes.
Connecting America Through Local Stories
On June 21, 1937, US Route 6 became a transcontinental highway when its western end was extended to Long Beach. At that time, the route measured 3,652 miles and was the longest numbered US highway.
Traveling its full length was not always a smooth ride. The entire highway was not paved until 1952, when the final unpaved section in Utah was completed. For communities along the road, improved pavement brought hope for more visitors and stronger business at local restaurants, hotels, and service stations.
A Highway Dedicated to Service
The name Grand Army of the Republic Highway honors the Union forces who served during the Civil War. States adopted the designation over several years, and a formal dedication took place in Long Beach on May 3, 1953.
That commemorative purpose adds another layer of meaning to a highway already rich in American history.
Why the Western Endpoint Changed
California’s highway renumbering, effective in 1964, shortened US Route 6 to Bishop, California. Although the official route no longer continued to Long Beach, its historic southern California corridor remains part of the highway’s story.
Discover the History Along US Route 6
The appeal of US Route 6 extends beyond its former coast-to-coast reach. Its communities offer opportunities to discover local museums, historic downtowns, family businesses, and stories that reward a slower journey.
Whether you explore one town or plan a longer drive, make time to learn about the places along the way.
Which historic US Route 6 community would you like to explore first?
Read more in the Federal Highway Administration’s history of US Route 6, and visit US Route 6 Happenings for more travel inspiration.
Support the US Route 6 Tourist Association
Your donation helps preserve the history of US Route 6, promote communities along the highway and inspire travelers to discover the people, places and stories that make the journey meaningful.
Visit the US Route 6 Tourist Association
Subscribe today and let Route 6 come to you, one story at a time.
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