Southern California's Singing Highway Needs To Be Experienced To Be Believed
Sophia
Author
If you’re driving down a certain stretch of highway in Lancaster, California, you might discover something remarkable – the pavement on this road sings to you as you drive. This may be the ultimate “roadside attraction.”
Nope, it’s not some sort of fancy electronic installation. The road actually plays the finale of Rossini’s “William Tell Overture” when you drive over the rumble strips flanking the road.
So what gives? In 2008, Avenue K was selected by Honda as the site of a new commercial that would feature a specially constructed stretch of highway consisting of strategically placed grooves. Those grooves are spaced so that instead of hearing annoying growl when you drive on the very edge of the road, you’re treated to a beautiful serving of classical music.
Related Stories
With Its Own Arcade, This Incredible Restaurant In Southern California Is Perfect For Families
This Speakeasy Hidden In An Italian Restaurant In Southern California Is Perfect For A Date Night
10 Waterfront Retreats In Southern California That Are Perfect For Warm Weather Adventures
Only 18 days after the road was put in place by Honda, city officials paved it over due to noise complaints from nearby neighbors. However, the road was rebuilt about a month later in a new location far from residential areas.
Though driving on the side of the road is never safe, this musical highway at least seeks to keep you cruising at the speed limit: the song can only be heard if you’re driving at the speed limit of 55 m.p.h.
To find the road for yourself, take Highway 14 north from Lancaster and exit at Avenue G. Check out the videos below for an idea of what the road sounds like.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.