When you say transportation history, that might sound pretty boring to people.  But we promise that when you visit these five spots, history will be all fun!

Mendenhall’s Museum of Gas Pumps & Petroliana, Buellton, CA

About 2 ½ hours north of Los Angeles you will find the small town of Buellton.  Often overshadowed by its neighbors, Solvang and Los Olivos, Bueltton has some finds of its own, including Mendenhall’s Museum of Gas Pumps & Petroliana.  With the largest collection of gas station memorabilia and oil company collectibles, it’ll be hard for anyone not to appreciate the American road history here.

Cruiser’s Café 66, Williams, AZ

Want to see a real life Radiator Springs like from the Disney film “Cars”? Then hop on Route 66 and exit in Williams.  You’ll feel like you’ve really stepped back in time when you enjoy a burger and soda at Cruisers Café, a highway diner that epitomizes the 50’s.  Make sure you stop in to the gift shop which is filled with some of the most outrageous auto-memorabilia from Ford, Chevy and of course Route 66.

Palm Springs Air Museum, Palm Springs, CA

What do you do when you’re in Palm Springs and the weather is too hot to enjoy the outdoors? Head on over to the Palm Springs Air Museum where you’ll find a great collection of aircraft from World War II, Korea and the Vietnam Wars.  Many of the docents are veterans who, if asked, are willing to share their own personal experiences.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, Oakhurst, CA

If you’re headed up to Yosemite, do yourself a favor and check out the Logger Steam Train at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.  Open from March to October, depending on the weather, this four-mile train ride through the forest is not only beautiful, but provides an historic view in to logging in the Sierras.

USS Midway Museum, San Diego, CA

If you’re fascinated by ships, then the USS Midway Museum has what you are looking for.  Called a “floating city at sea,” relive nearly 50 years of history aboard the longest-serving Navy aircraft carrier of the 20^th century. On the tour you’ll visit the engine room, sleeping quarters, ship’s post office and the jail. Remind your children to behave!    Remember, if you need help getting to these transportation wonders, TravelCar has rental cars available at rates up to 70% less than traditional car rental agencies.  Check us out at www.travelcar.com. Why rent a car, when you can TravelCar!