The Best Small Towns in America to Spot Retro Storefront Signs

From glowing neon and ghost signs to gold-leaf lettering and hand-painted facades, vintage storefront signage tells the story of America’s past with style. In towns across the country, this visual heritage isn’t just preserved—it’s celebrated.

This list spotlights small towns with an exceptional mix of well-preserved signs, historic architecture, and a clear commitment to visual authenticity. Each was chosen for its:

  • Rich variety of retro signage
  • Ongoing preservation and restoration efforts
  • Cohesive historic streetscape
  • Cultural relevance or public appreciation of signage

Whether you’re a business owner, photographer, or curious traveler, these walkable towns (listed alphabetically) double as living museums of American signcraft. Want to jump straight to a town that interests you? Click its name in the list below to skip ahead.

  1. Astoria, Oregon
  2. Beacon, New York
  3. Bisbee, Arizona
  4. DeLand, Florida
  5. Galena, Illinois
  6. Granville, Tennessee
  7. Petaluma, California
  8. Port Townsend, Washington
  9. Staunton, Virginia
  10. Tucumcari, New Mexico

Astoria, Oregon

Historic Liberty Theatre with vertical marquee signImage by Visitor7, CC BY-SA 3.0

Astoria is truly a hidden gem for anyone fascinated by the charm and history of retro storefront signs. What makes it particularly special is the indelible mark left by one local artist, Arvid Wuonola.

For an incredible 57 years, Wuonola was responsible for painting an astonishing 75% of Astoria's business signs, working tirelessly six days a week.1 As you wander through town, you're not just seeing a random collection of old signs, but a cohesive, hand-painted aesthetic that tells a story of local craftsmanship.

Astoria's retro look was also profoundly shaped by a pivotal event: the Great Fire of 1922.2 This devastating conflagration wiped out many city blocks downtown, leading to a significant rebuilding boom throughout the 1920s and 1930s.

As new structures like the Astor Building and the John Jacob Astor Hotel rose from the ashes, they brought with them the architectural styles and signage trends of those decades, including Art Deco and early neon.

Today, the city's commitment to this history is evident in its designated Astoria Downtown Historic District and through the efforts of organizations like the Astoria Downtown Historic District Association and the Lower Columbia Preservation Society.

Perhaps the most compelling reason to visit Astoria is the presence of a dedicated new sign museum, located on the upper level of the Astoria Armory. This passion project, spearheaded by curator Jeff Daly, features nearly 100 pieces, including the meticulously "retro-restored" 1923 Astoria Theater marquee, now shining brightly with over 200 bulbs.1

The museum elevates commercial signage to a celebrated art form, providing invaluable context and a deeper appreciation for the visual references to history you'll encounter throughout the town.

Exploring Astoria's retro signs is an absolute delight, thanks to its highly walkable downtown.3 Commercial Street and Marine Drive, with their boutiques, antique shops, and cafes, are perfect for a leisurely stroll where you can spot these historical treasures.

A vintage storefront sign, rectangular design with bold, condensed slab serif lettering that evokes an industrial, blue-collar aestheticImage by Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives

Vintage storefront sign for Hope Interior Consignment with yellow classic bold serif typefaceImage by Ian Poellet, CC BY-SA 3.0

A storefront sign with “Sauna” in classic serif font, while the other text uses elegant serif and script fonts to convey a traditional, vintage feelImage by Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives

Neon signage in bright white, blue, and red lights mounted above the entrance of a brick building at nightImage by Another Believer, CC BY-SA 3.0

Image by Another Believer, CC BY-SA 3.0

Stylized vintage-inspired window sign for Hotel ElliottImage by Jasperdo, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Playful retro-style storefront sign for Rogue Public House with bold lettering and bright colorsImage by Kingofthedead, CC BY-SA 4.0

Eclectic storefront sign for Bach'n Rock with classical and grunge text styles, plus neon music signageImage by ideath, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Large, whimsical sign on the roof featuring an ice cream cone and the text in playful, hand-drawn letters. Below the roofline, a horizontal purple sign lists menu items in white textImage by Visitor7, CC BY-SA 3.0

The signage in the image is a dark green rectangular sign with white text. The sign is mounted on two wooden posts and set in a grassy, tree-filled areaImage by Youngking11, CC BY-SA 3.0

Historic John Hobson house, weathered signImage by Steve Morgan, CC BY-SA 3.0

Vertical black sign with bold white letters. Attached horizontally is a smaller sign reading TV Bay View. An OPEN sign is displayed in the front window of the building belowImage by Jasperdo, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Beacon, New York

Neon marquee theater sign with lightsImage by Andreas Praefcke, CC BY 3.0

Nestled along the beautiful Hudson River, Beacon is a town that has undergone an incredible revitalization, becoming a magnet for artists and creatives. Its Main Street, lined with older buildings that have been thoughtfully repurposed, offers a compelling mix of retro storefront signs.

You'll uncover a fantastic blend of restored classic neon, charming hand-painted signs, and a generally "cool" vintage vibe that echoes both its industrial heritage and its vibrant artistic rebirth. The concentration of these diverse retro styles makes it a dynamic spot for sign enthusiasts.

The preservation of Beacon's historic downtown areas is a key part of its renaissance. While embracing modern art and culture (thanks in part to Dia Beacon), the town has consciously maintained the architectural integrity of its historic buildings.4

This balance creates a unique urban landscape where the old meets the new, and vintage signs stand proudly alongside contemporary art installations, all contributing to a highly walkable and engaging streetscape.

Local and tourist interest in Beacon's vintage culture is intertwined with its artistic scene.5 The town has a palpable appreciation for its past, with many businesses choosing to restore or create signage that complements the historic aesthetic.

This makes it incredibly appealing for travel influencers seeking visually rich environments. The industrial bones mixed with artistic flair provide a gritty yet beautiful backdrop for photography, capturing a distinctly Hudson Valley retro-chic.

Image by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Black and white sign for Beacon Falls Cafe and gold lettering for The Mill Antiques, with additional smaller signs including one indicating a store for rentImage by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Signage features classic gold lettering on a maroon background for “Dickinsons Antiques,” along with a vintage Texaco emblem hanging above the storefrontImage by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

A weathered vintage Coca-Cola advertisement with a red background, white script logo, and a classic glass bottle illustrationImage by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Storefront with multiple colorful signs advertising food and beverages, including hanging, wall-mounted, and window signage, along with directional and thank you signs on a utility poleImage by Tyler Hostig-McNeil, CC BY-SA 4.0

Storefront signage in gold lettering on large windows, advertising records, music, books, tapes, audio equipment, and moreImage by Kzirkel, CC BY-SA 3.0

Storefront signage in cream letters on a red awning above a shop window displaying vintage posters and signsImage by Malcolmxl5, CC0 1.0

Storefront signage in large red script and block letters, above a green and white striped awning covering a display of vintage candy and merchandiseImage by Correy Doctorow, CC BY-SA 2.0

Vintage circular Texaco sign reading Gasoline Motor Oil mounted on brick building with red ivy in historic downtownImage by Dougtone, CC BY-SA 2.0

Hanging and window signage reads “Muddy Cup Coffee House” in bold yellow lettering with a stylized coffee cup logo on the storefront of a brick buildingImage by Jim Henderson, CC BY 4.0

Hanging and window signage reads “Muddy Cup Coffee House” in bold yellow lettering with a stylized coffee cup logo on the storefront of a brick buildingImage by Daniel Case, CC BY-SA 3.0

Marquee sign at Beacon Theatre with illuminated lights and crowd gathered belowImage by Vladimir, CC BY-SA 2.0

Bisbee, Arizona

Bisbee’s visual identity is unmistakable. This former mining town in southeastern Arizona has leaned into its heritage, retaining hand-painted facades, fading ghost signs, and salvaged neon from the early to mid-20th century.6

Preservation isn’t passive in Bisbee. It’s formalized through supportive sign codes and an active restoration network involving business owners, artists, and city planners. For storeowners seeking inspiration, Bisbee offers a compelling model: signage that’s historically grounded yet commercially effective, and it photographs beautifully.

Ornate signs for Lyric building and Bisbee Realty IncImage by Luis Marcos, CC BY-SA 4.0

Signage in large, capital letters across the top facade. The background consists of red tiles with a white tile strip displaying the text in a vintage styleImage by J.G. Park, CC BY-NC 2.0

Vertical neon sign glowing at night, outlined in red with bright white letters spelling TABLE from top to bottomImage by Trevor Huxham, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

An old, weathered green metal sign in large white letters, showing signs of rust and fadingImage by Lynn Friedman, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Blue building with signage above the entrance and on the side, with painted silhouettes of dancersImage by Clay Gilliland, CC BY-SA 2.0

A decorative mural that features symbolic imagery including a peace sign, dove, sun, stars, flowers, and cornImage by Madjag, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A weathered and heavily graffiti-covered billboardImage by J.G. Park, CC BY-NC 2.0

Image by Jonathan McIntosh, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

A vintage-style painted sign on a brick wall with an arrow pointing right. A Coors Beer sign is also displayed above a nearby doorImage by Jaqcuelline Poggi, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Signage includes a bold, vintage Chevrolet logo on the left building and faded red text reading STAR CHEVROLET painted on the adjacent buildingImage by Larry Myhre, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Mural sign with attractions listed, including shops, restaurants, museums, lodging, RV park, and Queen Mine tour, painted on an exterior walImage by Daveynin, CC BY-SA 2.0

Vintage-style signs for Indian Motorcycle Co., Harley-Davidson, Texaco, and Greyhound. The Indian mural features a Native American profile with a headdressImage by Zombieite, CC BY 2.0

DeLand, Florida

You already get the thrill of a ghost sign peeking through old brick or the hum of a neon flicker at dusk—that’s why DeLand is worth your attention. This “Great American Main Street Award” winner has one of the most sign-satisfying historic downtowns in the South.7 Think faded hand-painted ads, mid-century neon remnants from Florida’s resort heyday, and storefronts practically glowing with character.

Nicknamed “The Athens of Florida” for its arts and culture scene, DeLand keeps vintage signage within a thriving urban heartbeat. Cafes, galleries, and vintage shops preserve the spirit, while thoughtful design ordinances help maintain visual authenticity.8

For sign chasers and nostalgia seekers alike, it's a goldmine. Bonus: the Wings Mural is a favorite photo spot, but the real visual icons are above the awnings. Sun-drenched brick. Curved glass. And signs that still speak in bold serif and faded paint.

White sign with gold naval wings reads DeLand Naval Air Station Museum, standing on a grassy area near a fence and road.Image by Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0

White triangular sign in bold black letters, featuring geometric African-style artwork below the textImage by Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0

White hanging sign suspended from a decorative wrought iron bracket attached to a tall, fluted post, positioned inside a white picket fenceImage by Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0

Image by Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0

A brick and stone monument sign for Earl Brown Park. It includes a changeable message board and a contact number to callImage by DanTD, CC BY-SA 4.0

Green and white directional sign for Earl Brown Park in DeLand, Florida. It lists nearby facilitiesImage by DanTD, CC BY-SA 4.0

Vintage marquee storefront sign for Athens Theatre with illuminated lettering, changeable show board, and ornate brick facadeImage by Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0

Small neighborhood gas station named Citro, featuring red and white fuel pumps, storefront with drink and snack signs, and palm trees in the background.Image by Adonis Hunter, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A hanging sign above a narrow alleyway that reads Centennial Square Park. It is mounted on a decorative metal bracket with a round light fixture on the left side.Image by DanTD, CC BY-SA 4.0

Galena, Illinois

Walking down Main Street in Galena feels like stepping into a carefully preserved photo album of 19th-century America.

This vibrant thoroughfare boasts a nearly unbroken line of 140 buildings from the 19th century, predominantly constructed of red brick and stone following transformative fires in the 1850s that prohibited wood construction.9

Hand-painted signs, aged metal signs, and gas-style street lamps adorned with USA flags blend seamlessly, creating an authentic streetscape.10 11

Galena stands as one of Illinois’ best-preserved historic towns, with over 60% of the city listed on the National Register of Historic Places.12 Its signage is integral to this charm, actively curated by stringent heritage district regulations.

These ordinances mandate that signs "complement its surroundings" and harmonize with the city's "mid-1800's" architectural quality. This means you won't find flashing LEDs or cookie-cutter backlit plastic in the historic district. Instead, you’ll discover timeless craftsmanship: gold-leaf lettering on glass, beautifully faded "ghost signs" on old brick buildings, and tasteful hanging shop signs made from wood or metal.13

Whether you’re a business owner seeking authentic signage inspiration or a traveler hunting for visually rich, "Instagram-friendly" backdrops, Galena truly does not disappoint.

Several hanging signs attached to the building, each featuring different shapes, colors, and fonts. There's also a cloth banner sign and a wooden sign with bold letteringImage by Wally Slowik Jr, CC BY-ND 2.0

Neon-lit Log Cabin steakhouse at nightImage by Tyler Hewitt, CC BY-NC 2.0

A vintage red and white neon sign written in script at the top, with CLEANERS displayed vertically below.Image by S Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0

The signage is a historical marker. It provides information about the hotel’s opening, its historical significance, notable guests, and changes to the building over timeImage by Jasperdo, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A vintage, red and white neon sign shaped like a pagoda. It reads Guey Lon Chop Suey Restaurant and is mounted on the exterior of a buildingImage by S Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0

Hanging shop signs and a window display sign. Additional signs are visible in the backgroundImage by Wally Slowik Jr, CC BY-ND 2.0

Row of vintage-style hanging business signs along a charming historic brick building, with decorative brackets and classic fontsImage by Richie Diesterheft, CC BY 2.0

Bold neon sign in stacked green and red panels, mounted on a brick building façadeImage by Jasperdo, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Faded black-and-white sign on a rustic red wooden buildingImage by DR04, CC BY 3.0

Granville, Tennessee

Granville in Tennessee charmingly evokes the nostalgic "Mayberry" feel, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate old-fashioned storefront signs.14

The town has a strong focus on preserving its historic downtown area, which directly contributes to the survival of its unique signage. Unlike larger cities, Granville's charm lies in its commitment to a simpler, earlier era, where original storefronts remain intact.15 This dedication to maintaining its historical appearance offers a truly authentic glimpse into America's past.

Granville thrives on its vintage culture, drawing both locals and tourists who are eager to experience its old-world charm. A major highlight is the historic T.B. Sutton General Store, a cornerstone of the community that boasts iconic signage and serves as a hub for the town's retro appeal.

The town frequently hosts retro-themed festivals that celebrate its heritage and provide a vibrant backdrop for its historic signs.

A retro-style, wall-mounted sign with bold, block lettering. It features a black background with white illuminated text and metal accents, giving it a vintage marquee appearanceImage by Brent Moore, CC BY-NC 2.0

Tall neon sign for Vogue Theatre with vertical red letters and yellow outline, topped by Art Deco dancing figure, glowing brightly at nightImage by Andreagh, CC BY-SA 3.0

A vintage-style metal sign with neon lettering. It features cursive text on top, bold block letters below, and a smaller illuminated sign at the bottomImage by Brent Moore, CC BY 2.0

A retro-style, rectangular purple sign with white neon lettering and floral accents. It has rounded edges and horizontal neon tubing for decorationImage by Bill Badzo, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

A large, vintage-style billboard shaped like a loaf of sliced breadImage by Brent Moore, CC BY-NC 2.0

A large, vintage-style billboard shaped like a loaf of sliced breadImage by Brent Moore, CC BY-NC 2.0

Petaluma, California

Petaluma, a charming town in Sonoma County, California, is one of the best places to spot beautifully preserved storefront signs from the past.

Historic buildings from the 1800s and early 1900s line the downtown streets, many featuring hand-painted lettering, classic neon, and restored shop fronts. Rather than being overshadowed by modern developments, Petaluma’s architecture and signage have been carefully protected, giving the town a rich visual character that speaks to its history.

Both locals and visitors appreciate Petaluma’s timeless atmosphere. Antique shops, vintage diners, and annual car shows all reflect the city’s love for retro Americana. This passion, paired with thoughtful sign regulations, ensures new businesses maintain the historic integrity of their storefronts.

Fun Signage Fact: Petaluma was one of the first cities in California to be named a National Register Historic District. This special title gained in 1995 has played a big part in protecting its unique old buildings and, of course, its many cool vintage storefront signs. Sign directives include encouraging illuminated signs, which should be contained within the sign frame and not spill over to other parts of the building.

A large, oval-shaped sign with bold red cursive lettering mounted on a tall brown frameImage by Jeff Boyd, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The signage features playful, colorful text with a cartoon character holding a popsicleImage by Jeff Boyd, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A brightly lit neon sign in red, yellow, and greenImage by Jeremy Brooks, CC BY-NC 2.0

A vintage-style mural painted on a brick building. It features a classic red and white soda brand logo with faded text and a small yellow chick graphic above, giving it a nostalgic, retro appearanceImage by jimpp, CC BY 3.0

The signage is a bold, colorful beer label featuring large text, a dog illustration, and product details from a California breweryImage by Thomas Cisauska, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The signage features a rustic wooden arch with Lagunitas Brewing Company engraved, marking the entrance to the breweryImage by Sarah Stierch, CC BY 4.0

When entering Petaluma from the south, I always look forward to being welcomed back to town by the Buckhorn, Pinky’s, the Mystic Theatre, and even the Boulevard Cinemas. These signs make me happy in a way that the signs along East Washington and Lakeville do not. Katherine J. Rinehart, Local historian.

Port Townsend, Washington

Neon sign for Rose Theatre glowing red and white, mounted above a canopy lined with lights at duskImage by Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0

Port Townsend is a historic Victorian seaport located on the Olympic Peninsula. Its well-preserved downtown, particularly along Water Street, offers a rare example of late 19th and early 20th-century commercial life.

Many buildings also feature "ghost signs"—faded, hand-painted advertisements from that era that remain visible today, serving as both historical records and beloved local landmarks.

The town’s dedication to preservation is evident in its National Historic Landmark District, which underscores its long-standing efforts to maintain architectural and historic integrity. Original storefronts and period signage are not only intact but actively protected, offering visitors a glimpse into history beyond surface-level charm.

Port Townsend also has a deep cultural connection to its Victorian roots. The town attracts visitors interested in antique shops, heritage festivals, and classic American storefronts.

Vintage signage here is appreciated as an integral part of the town's identity, and the combination of historic architecture and retro signs draws photographers and travelers looking for visually compelling streetscapes.

vintage-style neon and metal signs displaying Soda Fountain, Fountain Service, and Drink Coca-Cola above a classic diner counterImage by Christina, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The signage is a freestanding rectangular sign featuring a logo and tagline, supported by two red posts on a grassy roadside.Image by I-5 Design & Manufacture, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Brick building with faded Owl Cigar advertisement muralImage by Zoe, CC BY-NC 2.0

Palace Hotel entrance with U.S. and Canada flags, red-striped awning, and vintage window decorImage by Gene Taylor, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Rose Theatre sign on vintage brick building with painted mural and classic storefront detailingImage by John Lloyd, CC BY 2.0

Brick building with Bull Durham tobacco mural and vintage storefronts on busy street cornerImage by Jimmy Emmerson, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A vertical navy and gold hotel sign with an adjacent red neon Vacancy indicator, along with smaller signs for a skincare business and candy shop belowImage by David Seibold, CC BY-NC 2.0

Historic building signage reading 1887 McCurdy in red lettering on a triangular pediment above the corner of a red and gray brick structureImage by David Seibold, CC BY-NC 2.0

A vintage-style hanging sign mounted on a brick building, displaying the name, building number, and space for tenant listingsImage by David Seibold, CC BY-NC 2.0

Staunton, Virginia

Staunton is a true historic gem in the Shenandoah Valley, renowned for its five distinct historic districts, including a remarkably preserved downtown.16 This means a high concentration of late 19th and early 20th-century commercial architecture, offering a deep dive into classic American storefronts.

As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for an impressive array of vintage commercial signs, including charming hand-painted advertisements, "ghost signs" faded by time, and intricate architectural details.

Staunton's commitment to the preservation of its historic downtown is exceptional. As a designated "Main Street Community", the town has actively worked to maintain its authentic character.

The local and tourist interest in vintage culture is a cornerstone of Staunton's identity. Its allure draws visitors eager to explore architectural treasures, independent shops, and the vibrant arts scene, including the famed Blackfriars Playhouse. This appreciation extends to the town's historic signage, which is recognized as part of its visual character.

Black retro storefront signage in Staunton.Image by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

A green and gold storefront sign above a red-and-white striped awning, displaying the name and offerings of a gift and decor shopImage by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Hanging round sign reading “Sugar Loaf Farms” with painted image of a red barn and waterwheel, mounted on a black metal post at a farm entranceImage by Wndyfrg, CC BY-SA 3.0

A vintage-style green and white neon sign mounted on a stone wall, indicating the front entrance of a hotel.Image by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Neon sign reading “Stonewall Jackson Hotel” in bright red letters atop a brick building at night.Image by Ben Schumin, CC BY-SA 2.5

Classic storefront signs for a law office, a chocolatier, and a spiritual shop, each with distinct fonts and hanging signboards above the entrances.Image by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

A maroon banner with white text above large storefront windows, announcing the future home of the Staunton Performing Arts Center.Image by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

A classic theater marquee displaying movie titles and a website URL, with The Dixie written above the entrance doorsImage by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

A formal blue plaque mounted on a brick pillar, marking the birthplace of Woodrow Wilson with his birthdate.Image by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

A retro-style theater marquee with interchangeable letters displaying movie titles, topped by neon lighting.Image by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Retro-inspired storefront sign for Pufferbellies with tall serif lettering and illustrated whale logo above a blue striped awningImage by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Signage on the pink brick building reads Lewis Street Market and advertises a bakery and butcher shop with plain, vintage-style lettering.Image by Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Tucumcari, New Mexico

“The murals bring our history to life, blending the past and the present in a way that makes our streets feel like an open-air gallery. They capture the spirit of Route 66, the heart of the community, and the vibrancy that makes Tucumcari so unique.” Connie Loveland, director of Tucumcari MainStreet

Tucumcari is truly a glowing gem for anyone fascinated by America's mid-20th-century automotive era. Born as a railway siding in 1901, Tucumcari boomed with the arrival of Route 66 in 1926, becoming a bustling hub famous for its "Tucumcari Tonite!" billboard campaigns and thousands of motel rooms.

Even as interstates changed travel, Tucumcari cleverly adapted, ensuring original stretches of Route 66 remained accessible and earning its segment a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It's a place where history is very much alive and visible on every corner of the Mother Road.

What really makes Tucumcari shine, quite literally, is its incredible concentration of retro storefront signs, particularly its dazzling neon displays. Tucumcari Boulevard, the town's main street, transforms into a "miniature Las Vegas" at night, beckoning travelers with its vibrant glow.

You'll find iconic landmarks like the Blue Swallow Motel, famous for its enormous neon bird and "100% refrigerated air" boast. Even the local laundromat gets in on the fun with a 20-foot-tall neon sign of a woman working a washboard. These signs, with their bold typography and eye-catching shapes, are actively maintained and restored as major attractions.

Tucumcari's commitment to its vintage charm goes beyond signs. The town boasts about 100 vibrant murals, turning its streets into an "open-air art gallery" that tells stories of Route 66 and New Mexico landscapes.

Community efforts like Tucumcari MainStreet help “preserve, revitalize, and promote” the historic downtown, while projects like the New Mexico Route 66 Association’s Neon Restoration Project have helped repair hail-damaged signs. A detailed sign permit process also ensures new signage fits the historic aesthetic and protects the town's cohesive look.

Large, retro-style motel sign featuring bold lettering, a cowboy logo, and Route 66 branding, promoting vacancy and amenitiesImage by Russel Mondy, CC BY-NC 2.0

Large retro-style letters spelling "COFFEE SHOP" are painted on a teal wall with a yellow triangle backgroundImage by vhines200, CC BY-ND 2.0

Vibrant, hand-painted lettering on a bright yellow building, including a giant sombrero structure with bold text and murals promoting an art gallery and studioImage by Watts, CC BY 2.0

The signage features bold, retro-style text and Southwestern motifs. The words “TEEPEE CURIOS” appear in cartoonish font both on the wall and on a colorful vertical sign shaped like a teepee, adorned with Indigenous-inspired patterns and a cactus illustrationImage by Brent Moore, CC BY-NC 2.0

A large, rounded yellow sign with blue block lettering on a small buildingImage by Jillian York, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Large, weathered retro-style sign reading “Apache Motel” with directional vacancy and entrance indicators next to a rundown buildingImage by akahawkeyefan, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Blue Swallow Motel sign with neon swallowImage by Joseph, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Retro motel sign for Palomino with horse graphic, neon, and pastel colors.Image by Mobilus in Mobili, CC BY-SA 2.0

A brightly lit neon sign featuring the words Buckaroo Motel with a glowing cowboy silhouette above itImage by Chuck Cocker, CC BY-ND 2.0

Large, vintage-style motel sign shaped like a profile with bold lettering, advertising amenities, rates, and a Route 66 location.Image by Bill Badzo, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The signage features a retro-style sign reading Lasso Motel with arrows and lights, plus smaller signs for Camping and Color TV.Image by Bill Badzo, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

A colorful, eye-catching display shaped like a tepee with bold text and decorative elements, promoting a roadside curios storeImage by Marthat T, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

America's Historic Streets Told in Signs

Across these towns, vintage signage preserves the character and creativity of earlier eras, acting as both visual anchors and cultural touchstones. Tucumcari stuns with its glowing concentration of mid-century neon, bringing the spirit of Route 66 to life every evening.

Bisbee stands out for its artist-led restoration efforts and hand-painted signs that give the town both authenticity and charm. Galena impresses with its carefully maintained 19th-century downtown, where gold-leaf lettering and historic shopfronts are part of a broader preservation ethic.

These signs are active elements of each town’s identity, valued by communities and visitors alike. Whether you're seeking inspiration, snapping photos, or exploring small-town streets, the signage in these standout destinations turns everyday scenery into something memorable, meaningful, and enduring.

References

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  14. Cericola, L. (2025, June 21). Tennessee’s “Mayberry town” feels like a step back in time. Southern Living. https://www.southernliving.com/granville-tn-11755603
  15. Travel and Tour World. (2025, June). https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/granville-tennessee-discover-historic-landmarks-pioneer-village-and-mayberry-town-charm-for-an-authentic-step-back-in-time/
  16. Staunton, Virginia. (n.d.). Historic Preservation Districts | City of Staunton. https://www.ci.staunton.va.us/departments/planning-zoning-division/historic-preservation-districts
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