Scenic Route 6 is the second-longest highway in America, stretching from Long Beach, California to Provincetown, Massachusetts. Though the trip is marked by stunning scenery and a number of charming towns, there is a particularly noteworthy stretch of the route that spans the plains of Nebraska and Iowa: Scenic Route 6.

Winding through prairies that sandwich its pavement, the route is sprinkled with soda shops, filling stations, drive-ins, and more. Below we have compiled some of our favorite attractions along the way:

Scenic Route 6 in Iowa

The River to River Retro Road Trip

A tourist attraction that takes place every September, the River to River Retro Road Trip invites tourists to roll along Highway 6 in vintage cars while absorbing the picturesque scenery around them.

Home of President Herbert Hoover

The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is a unit of the National Park System in West Branch, Iowa, United States. The birthplace cottage fell into private hands and became a tourist destination following Hoover’s nomination to the presidency in 1928.

Valle Drive-In 

Ready to catch a flick in the field? Check out Valle, an old-fashioned drive-in theater with double features, a concession stand & seasonal hours.

The Atlantic Bottling Company

Pop or soda? How about both! The Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company is a privately owned, independent bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola products for southwest, central and south-central Iowa.

Scenic Route 6 in Nebraska

Strategic Air and Space Museum

Located near Ashland, Nebraska, along Interstate 80 southwest of Omaha, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum features aircraft and nuclear missiles of the United States Air Force

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

While in Omaha, head on over to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.  It is home to the world’s largest indoor desert, jungle, and nocturnal exhibit!

Haymarket District

Explore the historic Haymarket District to get a taste of the charm in the heart of downtown Lincoln. The district is famous for its eclectic shops and fun restaurants!

Do you have a stop to add to our list? Share your must-see attractions in the comment section below!