Every journey has a starting point. The long and winding road that led to Jim Hinckley’s America began long before the brand itself came to life.

That adventure started with a young boy fascinated by the automotive history, the inspirational people and the forgotten highways that are woven into the tapestry of the American story. Then came a passion for old trucks, the romanticism of the cowboy life, and the stories of the people that wrote history.

That was the foundation. Over the years, these passions evolved into a career as an author, speaker, humorist, and historian dedicated to sharing America’s story and to inspiring road trips by telling people where to go. Today, Jim Hinckley’s America is a multifaceted network with an international fan club. It includes the publication of more than 20 books, a weekly podcast, presentations, tourism development consulting, and social media network, all aimed at fostering a deeper connection to America’s past, present, and its future.

The Founders and the Mission

Jim Hinckley’s America was cofounded by Jim Hinckley, a natural born storyteller with an unquenchable thirst for history, road trips, and adventure, and a smile inducing dry wit that has become his stock in trade. With a deep-rooted passion for adventures on the open road, Jim, and his wife Judy, set out to do more than just explore the highways and backroads of America. They set out to tell the stories of the people that infuse those old roads with vibrancy. And that is why Jim has earned the moniker of America’s storyteller.

Over the years, Jim has become a trusted guide for road trippers, history buffs, and for communities looking to tap into tourism for economic development. His work blurs the line between past, present and future. And it showcases how history can be relevant, fascinating, inspirational, and fun.

At the heart of Jim Hinckley’s America is a simple yet powerful mission. Share America’s story. Inspire road trips by telling people where to go.

This mission isn’t just about maps and routes, dates and dry facts. It’s about the people, the places, and the history that make the journey memorable. It’s about preserving the past while embracing the future.

The Many Facets of Jim Hinckley’s America

Jim Hinckley’s America is much more than just a brand. It’s a dynamic passport to adventure that engages audiences through various mediums:

• Books: Jim Hinckley has authored 22 books, each a testament to his passion for history, for the road trip, and for the stories of inspirational people. Titles such as Ghost Towns of Route 66, The Route 66 Encyclopedia, and Murder & Mayhem on The Main Street of America capture the essence of the great American road trip, and offer readers a window into the past.
• Presentations and Speaking Engagements: As a seasoned storyteller, Jim delivers engaging presentations that bring history to life and induce smiles. Whether it’s a corporate event, tourism conference, economic development seminar, or a local historical society, his talks inspire, educate, and entertain audiences around the world.
• Podcasts and Social Media: Through Coffee With Jim, a weekly podcast hosted on Podbean, Jim connects with historians, preservationists, event organizers, community organizers,business owners, and road trip enthusiasts to discuss topics ranging from road trips to historic district revitalization. His social media network, including the Jim Hinckley’s America Facebook page, amplifies the mission and reaches a global audience with stories, travel tips, and insights. And the Jim Hinckley’s America website is chock full of stories, travel tips, and road trip inspiration.
• Tourism Development Consulting: Jim Hinckley’s America also works with communities and businesses to develop tourism strategies that highlight their unique history and heritage as economic assets. By helping towns recognize the value of their past, Jim contributes to sustainable tourism and economic growth, and helps foster development of a sense of community.

A Network Fueled by Passionate Sponsors

The sponsors of Jim Hinckley’s America are more than just financial supporters. They are kindred spirits who share a commitment to preserving history, to fostering a sense of community, and to inspiring travelers.

Businesses such as the Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri; Cactus Inn Motel in McLean, Texas; Roadrunner Lodge Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico; RouteTrip USA; Enchanted Trails Trading Post and RV Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Gilligan’s Route 66 Tours all embody the essence of open road adventures, the romance of American road trips, and the infectious enthusiasm of Jim Hinckley’s America. They are microcosims of what make road trips unforgettable. And their support ensures that Jim Hinckley’s America continues to inspire adventurers around the world.

Continuing the Journey

Jim Hinckley’s America is ever-evolving, but the mission remains unchanged. Share America’s story and inspire road trips, it’s what we do. Whether through books, podcasts, presentations, or social media, Jim continues to share America’s story. So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your next journey, look no further—Jim Hinckley’s America is here to tell you where to go!