1. Howard Johnson’s: The Orange Roof Icon
Few sights were as reassuring to road-tripping families as the bright orange roof of a Howard Johnson’s perched along the highway. Famous for its 28 flavors of ice cream and classic comfort foods, this chain became a symbol of American family travel from the 1920s onward. Its welcoming atmosphere and dependable menu made it a beloved stop for generations. Though most locations have faded into history, their legacy lives on in the memories of those who dined beneath those unmistakable roofs. Learn more at Smithsonian Magazine.
