What’s more American than pulling into your favorite drive-in, rolling down the window of your 1957 Chevy, and ordering a greasy burger, fries, and milkshake? Don’t get us wrong, we enjoy our iPads, smart phones, and flat-screen TVs. But we’d love to go all Marty McFly and celebrate just one July 4th in 1950s and 60s America, when dinner was served on roller skates and American iron ruled the roads.

At least we still have our Happy Days lunch box…

If you could bring just one quintessentially American hot rod-related activity or destination back into the mainstream, what would it be? With a little help from Summit Racing Gifts, Clothing & Memorabilia, we’ll illustrate a few of your choices below. Let us know what you think in the comments section!

Ice Cream/Root Beer Stands: Genuine Hotrod Hardware/Jack Schmitt Metal Sign, “Dairy Dream

Old Fashioned Diners: Genuine Hotrod Hardware/Jack Schmitt Metal Signs, “Diner”

Drive-In Movies: Larry Grossman Lithograph, “Cowgirls and Customs Down in the Valley” 

Mom/Pop Roadside Motels (and Bars): Larry Grossman Lithograph, “Rat Rod Roadhouse Round-Up”

Drive-In Restaurants: Larry Grossman Lithograph, “Cruisin’ for Burgers”

Main Street Cruising and Two-Lane Highways (Route 66): Genuine Hotrod Hardware, “Stop Off on Rt. 66 Sign”

Full-Service Filling Stations: Larry Grossman Lithograph, “Lefty’s Lightning Fast Service”

Local/Neighborhood Mechanics: Genuine Hotrod Hardware/Jack Schmitt Metal Signs, “Faster Horses” 

Author: David Fuller

David Fuller is OnAllCylinders' managing editor. During his 20-year career in the auto industry, he has covered a variety of races, shows, and industry events and has authored articles for multiple magazines. He has also partnered with mainstream and trade publications on a wide range of editorial projects. In 2012, he helped establish OnAllCylinders, where he enjoys covering all facets of hot rodding and racing.