A photographer has spent decades capturing these symbols of Americana and the open road.

The rise of automobile culture at the end of World War II gave Americans an easy and affordable way to see the country. Subsequently, mom-and-pop motels began appearing to meet the demand created by these new travelers. The motels strove to differentiate themselves with kitschy themes and eye-catching neon signs, which eventually emerged as distinctive images of Americana.

atlasobscura.com: The Vanishing World of Neon Motel Signs – Atlas Obscura