The Historic National Road, our nation’s first federally funded interstate highway, connected the eastern seaboard in Maryland to the western interior in Illinois. Conceived by George Washington, it became a reality in 1806 when Congress passed legislation during Thomas Jefferson’s administration.

The road reached Indiana in 1827, and the 156-mile stretch across the state from Richmond to Terre Haute was completed in 1834. Even though the federal government did nothing more than clear a dirt path with trees cut just low enough for Conestoga wagons to clear, the National Road still brought thousands of travelers to Indiana every year. In the 175 years that have followed, the road has been through many phases of construction and reconstruction, railroads were built, automobiles were invented and I-70 was constructed. Through it all, the National Road has remained one of Indiana’s Main Streets and primary transportation corridors.

Today, the Historic National Road is a symbol of our nation’s past, present and future, boasting a culture, history and tradition that are unparalleled in Indiana and the other five National Road states. We invite you to become a part of an experience that is truly Indiana.

The Indiana section of the Historic National Road was designated State Scenic Byway status in 1996, and National Scenic Byway status in 1998. In 2002, the entire Historic National Road—through Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois —was designated an All-American Road for its historical and cultural significance. It became the longest byway traversing the greatest number of states to receive this honor.