When I think about classic roadways to travel on, I think of two right away. Of course Route 66 is a landmark and historical route for all travelers. I've been blessed to drive on the Northern Arizona section, which includes the longest continuous stretch of the original Route 66 road. But I also think about the historic PCH—Pacific Coast Highway. It runs from San Juan Capistrano to Leggit, California (basically L.A. to San Francisco). Parts of the PCH are also called the 101 (a state route designation), and at one time the 101 also ran south of Los Angeles to San Diego. It runs along the West Coast and passes through some quaint cities and towns. It is sad that these small cities are often bypassed with the interstates and the motorists' rush to get to points far away as fast as they can.
Just north of San Diego, California is one such city, Encinitas, and they roll out a huge welcome mat for classic cars during the summer. Unfortunately, they only do the classic car show once a month and for only May-September. But for those five months, it is quite a show that the locals put on.
The four-lane roadway, just a bit away from the Pacific Ocean, sets aside the street parking for classics, and many adjacent business lots fill up as well with all varieties of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Along the eight blocks, bands set up to lay down some tunes, and the merchants stay open to sell their wares and bites to eat and liquids to drink. Since we are talking coastal California, the weather is pleasant and with daylight savings time, there is ample time to check out the rides. A few cars are selected each month for recognition, but really isn't it all about the opportunity to see and be seen and soak up some car culture?
At the opening month's event, I saw some great rides and even got a glance of Rick Dore, a car customizer who is always bringing some wild rides to SEMA and has been on a few television shows as well. The last show of the year is traditionally themed for Woodies and brings them out of the woodwork. (I couldn’t resist!)
I know there are other classic roads across our great land and hope during your summer travels you had a chance to lay some rubber on some ancient asphalt and perhaps see a classic car show as well.