While looking into the recent news that states are starting to shut down many roadside rest areas, I came across a site that once again proves just how wonderful the Internet is: Restareahistory.org, a comprehensive guide on highway rest stops and picnic shelters.
The site, developed by architectural and cultural historian Joanna Dowling, offers what is probably more than you ever thought you'd want to know about safety rest areas. Dowling has collected photos both recent and historic from across the United States, as well as information on architectural elements, planning, development and preservation, along with links to rest-area-related news items and departments of transportation.