By 1923, motor camping was the number one national pastime. Automobiles gave average Americans a new kind of freedom and a way to escape their daily routine by touring the countryside on short weekend trips or cross-country treks. Before long, travelers wanted more conveniences, leading to the birth of tourist cabins. Individual tourist cabins offered greater security, hot showers, and radios. As national chain hotels and motels grew, tourist cabins struggled for survival. However, the Lincoln Motor Court, built in 1944, provides an authentic Lincoln Highway-era setting for visitors today.