Paul Bunyan
Wisconsin Dells, WI
Photo courtesy Don Gardner

Nothing says "road trip" quite like a billboard promising an all-you-can-eat lumberjack meal. With its catchy "Munch a Bunch" slogan and giant helping of roadside charm, this sign was hard to ignore. It did exactly what a good billboard was supposed to do—it made you hungry before you even reached the restaurant. 03-01

The Paul Bunyan's Cook Shanty first opened in Wisconsin Dells in 1958 and has been feeding hungry travelers ever since. Famous for its family-style lumberjack breakfasts and hearty meals, it's the kind of place where empty plates don't stay empty for very long.

The billboard captured the fun personality of the restaurant. Promising generous portions and a true lumberjack feast, it was aimed squarely at vacationers heading through Wisconsin's Northwoods and the Dells. If the sign didn't convince you to stop, the smell of fresh homemade donuts probably did.

While this particular billboard has long since disappeared, Paul Bunyan's Cook Shanty remains a Wisconsin roadside tradition. More than 65 years after opening, it's still welcoming hungry travelers with the same hearty meals that made it famous.

UPDATE: The original "Munch a Bunch" billboard is still here and Paul Bunyan's Cook Shanty remains open in Wisconsin Dells and continues serving its famous family-style lumberjack meals. 07-26

Lost Canyon
Lake Delton, WI
Photo courtesy Don Gardner

If a billboard's job is to get you to slow down, this one probably did exactly that. The promise of Lost Canyon was enough to spark a little curiosity and maybe convince a few travelers to take the next turn. After all, who wouldn't want to see what was hiding down the road? 03-01

Lost Canyon first opened in 1956 and has become one of Wisconsin Dells' longest-running attractions. Instead of exploring the canyon on foot or by car, visitors climb aboard horse-drawn wagons for a leisurely ride through towering sandstone walls that have been amazing travelers for generations.

The billboard captured the sense of adventure that made the attraction so popular. It didn't have to say much—just the name "Lost Canyon" was enough to make you wonder what was waiting at the end of the road.

While this particular billboard has disappeared over the years, Lost Canyon is still welcoming visitors today. More than 70 years after opening, the horse-drawn tours continue to offer one of the most unique experiences in the Wisconsin Dells.

UPDATE: The original roadside billboard is no longer standing, but Lost Canyon remains open seasonally and continues offering its famous horse-drawn tours through one of Wisconsin's most scenic natural attractions. 07-26