Scenic 49 Mile Drive

The United States has a number of scenic drives for vacationers to enjoy, based on the area they visit. In San Francisco, California visitors and residents can enjoy Scenic 49 Mile Drive, which is known for its highlights of the city's attractions and historical structures. The drive opened in 1938 as a promotion for the impending Golden Gate International Exposition. The exposition was held in 1939. The exposition was designed to feature the Golden Gate Bridge that opened in 1937 and the Bay Bridge that opened in 1936. Scenic 49 Mile Drive ends at the fairgrounds on Treasure Island.

There are a plethora of points of interest such as the Civic Center, Asian Art Museum, MOMA (Museum of Modern Art, JapanTown, Union Square, and Chinatown. The route starts with a blue and white sign at the intersection of Hayes Street and Van Ness Avenue. Along the entire 49 mile drive are more blue and white signs to help visitors keep on the proper path. Also among sites to see include Nob Hill, Russian Hill, Cable Car Barn, North Beach, Transamerica Pyramid, and Coit Tower.

The signs marking the route were created by Rex May, a local artist in 1955. There was a competition to choose who would design the signs.