Entering the freeway, drivers get to test their car's 0-to-60 mph acceleration at stop signs like these. (photo by waltarrrrr)
The Arroyo Seco Parkway, the Pasadena Freeway, State Route 110—call it what you want, but it’ll still be the most treacherous road you’ve ever driven. Although this freeway has a notoriously high accident rate, it’s also jam-packed with historic goodies and natural scenery, making it one of LA’s most legendary landmarks.
Built in 1940 to connect Downtown Los Angeles and Pasadena, the Arroyo Seco Parkway is the oldest freeway in America—and it shows. Today, this strip of road carries over four times the number of vehicles it was designed for, at nearly double the intended speed limit. Sharp turns and non-existent shoulder lanes contribute to more accidents than on any other freeway in Los Angeles, and residents of surrounding neighborhoods have gotten used to the ever-present sound of screeching tires (case in point).
Obsolete engineering aside, however, there happen to be plenty of redeeming qualities that make this freeway unlike any other in LA. For one, it’s got more natural scenery than all the other Los Angeles freeways combined, boasting majestic stone bridges, lush leafy trees, and great views of the Arroyo Seco River itself.
You won't see scenery like this on the 10 or 405
The road has gone 71 years with virtually no changes (except some compulsory middle dividers, thank goodness), making it a nifty time capsule of early motor transportation. It also runs through some of the oldest neighborhoods in LA and serves as a veritable tour of the Arts and Crafts Movement in California, which produced some of the most spectacular Craftsman houses in American architecture.
An architecture nerds' dream: original Arts & Crafts homes in the hills of Highland Park
So while this parkway is most definitely outdated and downright terrifying to travel, we’re here to give it some credit—the Arroyo Seco Parkway provides a kickass tour of LA history. And what better way to experience LA’s most dangerous road than to travel it yourself, right?
To see the sights of America’s oldest freeway, we’ve outlined a day trip along its historic eight miles. For God’s sake though, drive it with caution! Some safety tips: bring a camera and a driving buddy, and drive so carefully you get honked at (hey, at least you’ll get back in one piece).
The 80-year-old Figueroa Tunnels
Starting in Chinatown, hop on the 110 North and settle in for a scenic ride. The first few miles of our tour include Dodger Stadium and Elysian Park, two of Downtown’s most popular destinations. Exploring these landmarks by foot is encouraged, but beware the horrible parking in Downtown!
Heading north on the 110, you’ll pass through the four famous Figueroa Tunnels, which date back to the 1930s. As you drive through Highland Park, you’ll see signs for the historic Lummis House, a 19th century abode built of stones from the nearby Arroyo Seco streambed.
The Lummis House and gardens blend effortlessly into nature (photo by waltarrrrr)
Look to the left and you will also see the Southwest Museum—the oldest museum in Los Angeles—standing proudly among the hills of Mt. Washington.
A detour in this area is highly recommended—marvel at some amazing turn-of-the-century architecture at Heritage Square and overlook the city’s oldest neighborhoods (think Highland Park, Lincoln Heights, and Pasadena) from Debs Park.
Some of LA's first homes: preserved at Heritage Square and visible from the Arroyo Seco Parkway
Jump back on at Avenue 52 and continue north toward Pasadena.You will pass under the parkway’s original bridges, including the 1895 Railroad Bridge, which is now a part of the Metro Gold Line. Surrounded by long flowering vines and sloping hills, the final few miles of the parkway are where the beauty of nature really kicks in. The last landmark of our tour is a gigantic 80-year-old hillside sign made of stones, marking the freeway’s final destination. Welcome to Pasadena! Now get off the freeway and walk around!
The Pasadena sign
