Birthplace of A&W Root Beer
Lodi, California
A small plaque set into a sidewalk marks the site of Roy W. Allen's first roadside root beer stand, which opened on June 20, 1919. He bought his top secret formula from a pharmacist in Arizona, who claimed he had perfected the recipe for root beer. Allen sold the concoction for a nickel a frosty mug, Prohibition boosted sales, and in 1923 he opened his first drive-in (in Sacramento). By 1930 he had nearly 200.
An A&W near the plaque features displays of company memorabilia, and still offers curbside service.