12 Retro Travel Ads That Made Us Want to Hop in the Station Wagon Right Away
Before the age of budget airlines and last-minute travel deals, family vacations started with one thing: an eye-catching ad.
Whether it was a colorful roadside billboard, a glossy magazine spread, or a catchy jingle on the radio, travel ads in the mid-20th century had a way of making every destination look like the adventure of a lifetime.
From scenic road trips and luxury train rides to tropical getaways that promised endless sunshine, these vintage advertisements weren’t just selling vacations but dreams.
1. See the USA in Your Chevrolet (1950s)
Chevrolet’s iconic slogan wasn’t just a marketing line—it was a way of life. This campaign featured vibrant imagery of families hitting the open road, cruising past stunning American landmarks.
With an upbeat jingle and patriotic spirit, it made road-tripping feel like a national duty. The emphasis was on freedom and adventure, inviting everyone to see the vastness of the USA.
2. Florida: The Land of Sunshine (1960s)
Before Disney World opened, Florida’s ads focused on its pristine beaches, palm trees, and endless summer vibes. Posters showcased stylish vacationers lounging by the ocean, making the Sunshine State look like the ultimate escape from wintry northern chills.
The imagery promised relaxation and warmth, an enticing offer for those seeking sunshine and sandy shores.
3. Visit California—It’s a Whole Other World (1970s)
California’s tourism board played up the state’s diverse attractions, from Hollywood glamour to rugged Pacific coastlines. The ads often featured smiling surfers and redwood forests, blending nature with urban excitement.
Families were convinced that a West Coast adventure was worth the drive, offering something for everyone from beaches to bustling city life.
4. See Rock City (1950s-1970s)
Painted on barns across America, the “See Rock City” ads became legendary. They promised breathtaking mountaintop views from Chattanooga, Tennessee, transforming a small roadside attraction into a must-see stop.
Road-trippers seeking something quirky and unique were drawn in, adding a touch of whimsy to their travel itineraries.
5. Go Greyhound—and Leave the Driving to Us (1960s-1980s)
For families who wanted to travel without the stress of driving, Greyhound bus ads painted a picture of comfortable, affordable cross-country travel. The commercials showcased happy passengers, scenic highways, and the freedom of reclining seats.
Though reality may not have always lived up to the promise, the allure of stress-free travel was undeniable.
6. Take the Train! Amtrak’s Got the Right Track (1970s-1980s)
In an era of rising gas prices, Amtrak positioned itself as the stress-free way to travel. Ads featured smiling conductors, roomy seats, and breathtaking views from observation cars.
Travelers were reminded that road trips weren’t the only way to see America, offering a serene alternative to car travel.
7. The Great American Road Trip by Holiday Inn (1980s)
Holiday Inn ran ads that made it seem like every family road trip had a cozy and reliable place to rest. Bright neon signs and smiling front desk clerks created the perfect invitation for weary travelers to pull over and stay the night.
The ads emphasized comfort and reliability, offering a home away from home on the open road.
8. Visit the Grand Canyon—A Wonder of the World (1950s-1970s)
Vintage Grand Canyon travel ads captured the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural wonder. They often depicted families gazing over the canyon rim, urging travelers to experience the breathtaking sights in person.
The promise of majestic views and unforgettable memories made it a must-visit destination for adventurers.
9. The Pacific Northwest: It Will Leave You Breathless (1970s-1980s)
Long before it became a hipster paradise, the Pacific Northwest was marketed as a scenic wonderland. Ads showcased lush forests, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes, promising an escape into nature.
No highway traffic could ruin this tranquil retreat, appealing to those seeking peace and breathtaking beauty.
10. Take a Detour to Route 66 (1960s-1980s)
As interstates took over, Route 66 tourism ads fought to keep the Mother Road alive. Vintage posters and TV spots urged travelers to take the scenic route, complete with roadside diners and neon signs.
The nostalgic charm of quirky attractions beckoned those yearning for a piece of Americana.
11. Niagara Falls: The Honeymoon Capital (1950s-1970s)
Niagara Falls positioned itself as the dream destination for newlyweds, with ads featuring happy couples in vintage convertibles, mist-covered boat rides, and candlelit dinners.
Even if you weren’t getting married, the ads made it seem like a magical place to visit, promising romance and wonder for all.
12. See America’s National Parks (1930s-1970s)
Long before Instagram, the U.S. government promoted national parks with beautifully illustrated posters. These ads showcased Yellowstone’s geysers, Yosemite’s cliffs, and the Great Smoky Mountains’ peaks.
Families were urged to discover the wild beauty of America, offering an invitation to explore nature’s grandeur and diversity.