Our recent research into the longest and deepest tunnels in the US and around the world identified 44 significant road tunnels across the country, many of which offer mesmerizing tunnel views as you emerge on the other side. These road tunnels not only make travel more efficient but also transform the driving experience, cutting through mountains, passing beneath waterways and connecting major cities.
Across the US, some of these tunnels are named after influential figures, from political leaders to pioneering engineers who helped shape the nation’s infrastructure. In this guide, we explore 11 of the most famous road tunnels in the US, uncovering the stories behind their names while helping you plan memorable journeys along some of the nation’s most iconic routes.
Whether you’re embarking on a cross country road trip or flying into a different state, experiencing these road tunnels in a SIXT rental vehicle allows you to explore each location at your own pace. With many branches throughout the country, including at major airports, SIXT has your car rental needs covered.
Iconic US Tunnels Named After Influential Figures
Holland Tunnel
State: New York to New Jersey
Named after: Clifford Milburn Holland
The Holland Tunnel is perhaps the most famous underwater crossing in the world. Connecting Manhattan to Jersey City, it was named in honor of its chief engineer, Clifford Milburn Holland. Sadly, Holland passed away just before the project was completed, never seeing the revolutionary ventilation system he designed change the future of tunnel engineering.
Lincoln Tunnel
State: New York to New Jersey
Named after: Abraham Lincoln
Arguably the busiest tunnel in the world, the Lincoln Tunnel is named after the 16th U.S. President, Abraham Lincoln. Spanning the Hudson River, this three-tube road tunnel is a cornerstone of the NYC commute.
Sumner Tunnel
State: Massachusetts
Named after: William H. Sumner
Located in Boston, the Sumner Tunnel was the first road tunnel in Massachusetts. It is named after William H. Sumner, the son of former Governor Increase Sumner. William was a key figure in the development of East Boston, the area the tunnel serves today.
Ted Williams Tunnel
State: Massachusetts
Named after: Ted Williams
A must-see for baseball fans, this Boston tunnel honors the legendary Red Sox outfielder Ted Williams. Part of the famous “Big Dig” project, it dives deep under Boston Harbor to connect South Boston with Logan International Airport.
Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel
State: Colorado
Named after: Dwight D. Eisenhower and Edwin C. Johnson
At an elevation of over 11,000 feet, the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel is one of the highest highway tunnels in the world. The westbound bore honors President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who championed the Interstate Highway System, while the eastbound bore is named for Edwin C. Johnson, a former Colorado governor and U.S. Senator.
Anton-Anderson Memorial Tunnel
State: Alaska
Named after: Anton Anderson
Also known as the Whittier Tunnel, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is unique because it serves both cars and trains on a single lane. It is named for the chief engineer of the Alaska Railroad who spearheaded its construction during WWII.
Callahan Tunnel
State: Massachusetts
Named after: William F. Callahan Jr.
Working in tandem with the Sumner Tunnel, the Callahan Tunnel carries traffic toward East Boston. It was named after William F. Callahan Jr., the son of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority chairman, who was tragically killed in action during World War II.
Tom Lantos Tunnel
State: California
Named after: Tom Lantos
Located south of San Francisco at “Devil’s Slide,” the Tom Lantos Tunnel was a victory for environmentalists. It is named after Congressman Tom Lantos, who secured the federal funding necessary to bypass the crumbling coastal cliffs and preserve the local ecosystem.
Heroes Tunnel
State: Connecticut
Named after: All military veterans and first responders
Carrying the Wilbur Cross Parkway through West Rock in New Haven, the Heroes Tunnel (formerly the West Rock Tunnel) was renamed in 2003. It serves as a tribute to all military veterans and first responders who have served the community and the country.
Posey Tube
State: California
Named after: George Posey
The Posey Tube connects Oakland and Alameda underwater. It is named after George Posey, the Alameda County surveyor and chief engineer who designed this innovative reinforced concrete structure in the 1920s.
Webster Tube
State: California
Named after: Daniel Webster
Running parallel to the Posey Tube, the Webster Tube was built to handle the increasing traffic flow between Oakland and Alameda. It takes its name from Webster Street, the surface road it connects to, which itself is named for the 19th-century statesman Daniel Webster.
Best Road Trips Featuring Famous US Tunnels
NYC to Boston
Stretching roughly 215 miles, the drive from New York City to Boston typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic. This route up the Northeast Corridor lets you tick several tunnels off your list including the Lincoln Tunnel in New York City, the Heroes Tunnel in Connecticut and the Ted Williams and Sumner tunnels in Boston.
Having a SIXT rental car gives you the flexibility to break up the journey, explore smaller towns off the highway and avoid the limitations of public transportation.
California Highway 1
This iconic stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway, south of San Francisco, offers one of the most scenic road trips in the US. The journey from San Francisco to Monterey is about 120 miles and roughly takes 2.5 to 3 hours without stopping, however most road-trippers take much longer to enjoy the views.
Highlights along this route of California Highway 1 include the Tom Lantos Tunnel at Devil’s Slide, which offers a dramatic transition from the mountain into a sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean. Drivers can also explore coastal landmarks such as Half Moon Bay, Big Sur and Bixby Creek Bridge.
A SIXT rental car is particularly beneficial here, allowing you to travel at your own pace, stop at scenic viewpoints and access less-connected areas.
Colorado Mountains
For a high-altitude driving experience, take Interstate 70 West from Denver toward the Rockies. The drive to Vail is 100 miles and typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on weather and traffic conditions.
A highlight of this route is the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel, one of the highest road tunnels in North America, cutting through the Continental Divide at over 11,000ft. It’s a thrilling drive that offers a access to Colorado’s premier ski resorts and mountain vistas.
In Colorado, renting a SIXT vehicle, especially one suited to mountain driving like an SUV, provides greater control and safety, particularly in winter conditions.
How to choose the right SIXT rental car for tunnel driving
Exploring highway tunnels in the US is an unforgettable driving experience. Choosing the right rental vehicle can make all the difference, giving you the comfort, reliability and performance needed for long car journeys.
By renting with SIXT, you ensure that your vehicle is modern, reliable and equipped with the latest navigation technology to guide you through even the most complex underground interchanges. Whether you opt for a premium sedan for a smoother, quieter ride through urban passages like the Holland Tunnel, a spacious SUV for more rugged surroundings like the Rockies, or an electric vehicle for a more efficient journey through coastal California, hiring a rental car offers the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make the most of every mile. Discover our full fleet and find your perfect rental vehicle for your next adventure.
