26 Most Iconic Vintage Signs from America’s Past
There’s something magical about vintage signs. They represent a snapshot of history, a window into the past, and an embodiment of a particular era’s style and culture.
From neon signs that lit up the night to bold billboards that greeted travelers on the open road, these iconic markers are beloved pieces of Americana. Whether they heralded a roadside diner or flashed the latest in fast food, these signs played a major role in shaping the landscape of America.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and look at 26 of the most iconic vintage signs that have stood the test of time.
1. The “Welcome to Las Vegas” Sign – Las Vegas, NV
Designed by Betty Willis in 1959, the Welcome to Las Vegas sign is the epitome of glitzy, glamorous Vegas. Located at the southern end of the Strip, it’s an iconic symbol that greets millions of visitors every year.
Its bright neon lights and bold font make it an unforgettable part of the Vegas landscape.
2. The Hollywood Sign – Los Angeles, CA
Arguably the most recognizable sign in America, the Hollywood Sign has become a global symbol for entertainment and fame. Originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a local real estate development, it now stands as an iconic tribute to the film industry.
Over the years, this 45-foot-tall structure has come to represent the dreams and aspirations of those looking to make it in Hollywood.
3. The Route 66 Road Sign – Chicago, IL to Santa Monica, CA
The historic Route 66 sign, also known as the “Mother Road,” became a symbol of the American road trip in the mid-20th century. It stretches across multiple states, connecting Chicago to Santa Monica, and its nostalgic significance has made it a cherished symbol of freedom and adventure.
Many of the signs along this legendary route have become national landmarks, making the road an enduring piece of American history.
4. The “Big Tex” Sign – Dallas, TX
Located at the entrance to the State Fair of Texas, the Big Tex sign features a massive, towering figure that has become synonymous with the fair itself.
This beloved symbol has greeted visitors for more than 60 years with a warm Texas welcome and has since become a staple of the fair’s identity.
5. The “World’s Largest Ball of Twine” Sign – Cawker City, KS
This quirky, iconic sign points to a roadside attraction that is every bit as oddball as it sounds. Located in Cawker City, Kansas, this sign guides visitors to a gigantic ball of twine that weighs over 17,000 pounds.
It’s an amusing and beloved landmark for those who appreciate the strange and unique roadside attractions across the country.
6. The “Golden Arches” McDonald’s Sign – Worldwide
The Golden Arches have long been the international symbol of fast food, and the McDonald’s sign has become so iconic that it’s recognized all over the world.
Introduced in the 1950s, these bright yellow arches quickly became the symbol of the fast-food revolution, signaling comfort food just around the corner.
7. The “Welcome to New York City” Sign – New York, NY
Standing at the gateway to one of the world’s most famous cities, the “Welcome to New York” sign is a symbol of the Big Apple’s iconic energy.
The sign has graced visitors from all over the world, acting as a prelude to the dazzling lights and vibrancy that define this incredible city.
8. The “Pabst Blue Ribbon” Sign – Milwaukee, WI
The Pabst Blue Ribbon sign has long been associated with one of America’s most beloved beer brands. Originating in the late 1800s, it became synonymous with Milwaukee’s rich brewing tradition.
The blue ribbon in the sign signifies its award-winning quality, and the neon lights of its vintage signs still shine in select locations around the country.
9. The “Coca-Cola” Neon Sign – Atlanta, GA
Few things are as iconic as the Coca-Cola neon sign, which has been illuminating Atlanta, Georgia for decades. Known for its bright red lights and classic script, it evokes the rich history of the soft drink brand that helped shape American culture.
The sign, which once adorned buildings across the U.S., remains one of the most recognizable vintage signs in the world.
10. The “Trader Vic’s” Sign – Worldwide
Trader Vic’s, the world-famous tiki restaurant chain, became an American institution in the mid-20th century. Its vibrant tiki-style signs featuring palm trees and tropical motifs have become synonymous with exotic cocktails and lively, retro vibes.
The design instantly transports patrons back to a time when tiki culture was in full swing, and it continues to hold a nostalgic place in people’s hearts.
11. The “Hershey’s Chocolate” Sign – Hershey, PA
Nestled in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the Hershey’s Chocolate sign has stood as a beacon of sweetness since the town’s founding.
Its oversized letters and whimsical design are emblematic of the chocolate factory that made this town famous, attracting chocolate lovers from all over the world.
12. The “Hot Dog” Sign – Chicago, IL
A Chicago hot dog is a regional delicacy, and the “Hot Dog” sign has long been a symbol of the city’s love for this beloved snack.
Found in various forms along the streets of Chicago, the hot dog sign stands as a reminder of the city’s rich culinary traditions.
13. The “Neon Boneyard” Sign – Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas is a city of neon, but the Neon Boneyard is where old signs go to retire. This museum houses a vast collection of retro neon signs that were once the face of famous hotels, casinos, and restaurants along the Las Vegas Strip.
It’s a treasure trove of neon history, each sign representing a different era of Vegas.
14. The “Budweiser” Sign – St. Louis, MO
Budweiser’s vintage neon signs have been a fixture in bars, taverns, and breweries across the United States for decades.
The red and white colors of the iconic Budweiser sign are associated with great beer, and vintage versions of these signs can still be seen in places where the beer is celebrated.
15. The “Route 66 Motel” Sign – Various Locations Along Route 66
Route 66 is littered with quirky vintage signs, but one of the most iconic is the “Route 66 Motel” sign. These roadside motels, scattered along the old highway, have some of the most charming, retro signs.
Their neon lights and mid-century design elements still hold the allure of an era of family road trips.
16. The “Drive-In” Theater Sign – Nationwide
Before streaming services, families flocked to drive-in theaters, and their neon signs illuminated the roads at night.
The “Drive-In” theater sign is a nostalgic symbol of a simpler time, where people could enjoy a movie from the comfort of their own car while snacking on popcorn.
17. The “Del Taco” Sign – Nationwide
The Del Taco sign is a classic representation of fast food culture in the U.S. with its bold, red lettering and whimsical design.
A symbol of quick Mexican-American cuisine, it has become a familiar sight to road-trippers in many regions.
18. The “King Kong” Sign – New York City, NY
The iconic King Kong sign once adorned the side of the famous Empire State Building in New York City during the release of the 1976 film.
The towering ape’s massive presence was a spectacle that became ingrained in the city’s cinematic history.
19. The “Woolworth’s Five and Dime” Sign – Nationwide
Woolworth’s chain of stores once ruled the retail landscape, and their five-and-dime signs were instantly recognizable across the U.S.
Featuring colorful fonts and simple, vintage aesthetics, these signs became synonymous with affordable shopping for everyday families.
20. The “Taco Tico” Sign – Midwest USA
Taco Tico’s vibrant neon sign has been an emblem of fast and cheap Mexican food in the Midwest.
The quick-service restaurant’s colorful sign evokes memories of an earlier time when taco joints served as staple hangouts for teens and families alike.
21. The “F.W. Woolworth” Sign – Nationwide
The F.W. Woolworth’s signs have become an iconic part of American retail history, associated with the five-and-dime stores of the 20th century.
The logo and design speak to a simpler, more straightforward retail experience, and vintage signage remains highly sought after by collectors.
22. The “Long John Silver’s” Sign – Nationwide
Once a popular seafood fast-food chain, Long John Silver’s signs featured bold, maritime-inspired designs, drawing attention to the restaurant’s iconic fish-and-chips.
Over the years, the brand’s signature signs have become nostalgic for fans of fried seafood.
23. The “L.A. County Fair” Sign – Pomona, CA
The L.A. County Fair has long been a cultural event, and its vintage neon sign once greeted visitors from miles around.
The sign continues to represent California’s rich fair culture, recalling the exciting moments spent on Ferris wheels and enjoying fried food.
24. The “Chevrolet” Bowtie Sign – Nationwide
The Chevrolet Bowtie sign, with its simple yet iconic design, has been associated with American cars since the early 20th century.
The sign’s clean lines and bold simplicity make it a symbol of American ingenuity and a part of the fabric of roadside America.
25. The “Sears” Sign – Nationwide
The Sears brand has faded in recent years, but its vintage neon signs remain an enduring symbol of mid-century shopping experiences.
With bold red letters, these signs represented a time when Sears was at the forefront of American retail, offering everything from tools to clothes.
26. The “Krispy Kreme” Sign – Nationwide
The Krispy Kreme neon sign is famous for glowing brightly in the window when hot donuts are available.
A symbol of deliciousness and comfort, it lights up the streets with its inviting neon glow, drawing in customers seeking fresh, warm donuts.