Interstate 80 connects two major US cities—San Francisco and Teaneck, New Jersey, right outside New York City—making it a popular and well-traveled route. Though its endpoints are two of the country's coolest destinations, you should not zoom through the middle.
Along the way, you'll pass through Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Omaha, Des Moines, and more. You'll travel across states like Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, which are all loaded with offbeat and interesting attractions. Here are some of the coolest things to see and do along I-80.
1922 Merlin Drive, Jefferson City, United States
Seward is home to the World's Largest Time Capsule. It's a 20-foot by 8-foot by 6-foot concrete vault filled with 5,000 objects from the town's history, all donated by its citizens. Rumor has it that there's even a car inside. It was dedicated in 1975 and is set to be open in 2025, but in the meantime, you can check out the memorial and ponder what might be within.
Kearney's Classic Car Collection is an ever-growing display of vintage cars from across history. Even if you don't know much about automobiles, you can appreciate the details and aesthetic of these retro beauties.
The Heartland Military Museum has a huge collection of military vehicles that is incredibly impressive, with helicopters, jeeps, tanks, and more—some of which you can climb inside.. You'll also find displays of weapons, uniforms, and equipment.
Union Pacific Railroad's Bailey Yard manages 10,000 rail road cars every single day on its 2,850 acre spread. The Golden Spike Tower's observation decks provide the best views of the world's largest train yard. Tour the visitor center to learn about the crucial role railroads played in American history.
I-80 makes its way into Nebraska next, where you'll find even more natural beauty and interesting history. From Apache Indians to the Oregon Trail, Ash Hollow State Historical site is loaded with fascinating stories from the past. It's not hard to see why Native Americans chose to settle here, as it has caves for shelter and abundant wildlife. The park's Windlass Hill was notoriously difficult for emigrants on the Oregon/California Trail.
Located on Wyoming's F.E. Warren Air Force Base, the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile and Heritage Museum is a fascinating look into the science and history of ICBMs and the 90th Missile Wing, which operates Minuteman-III missiles across the west. It's all housed in a turn-of-the-century building at the oldest continuously active military installation within the Air Force.
Another interesting historic stop along I-80 is the Wyoming Territorial Prison Museum. Built in 1872, it saw many famous outlaws—including Butch Cassidy—pass through its doors. Walk into the cells, see pictures of old convicts, and learn what life was like for outlaws who weren't able to escape arrest.
Stop by Fort Fred Steele to stretch your legs by walking among the remains of an old military post, built to protect the railroad. Several buildings and interpretive signs and exhibits make this a quick educational stop. You'll also enjoy the beautiful setting in the Wyoming landscape.
Natural Corrals Archaeological Site is a home to a rugged landscape formed from ancient lava flows. It is dotted with caves, some of which have ice all year round. It's also historically important, as there's evidence that Native Americans used this area for buffalo kills.
There's no bad time of year to road trip along I-80. Snow might make traveling a little tougher in the winter, closing some attractions and slowing down your drive, but there are enough big cities along the way and other travelers on the highway, ensuring something will always be open.
