The “National Scenic Byway” program in the US is designed to highlight the nation’s roads which have special significance for historical and/or aesthetic reasons. At this time there are 150 roads in 46 of the 50 states which have earned this designation. Take a tour with me of some of America’s Scenic Byways and see what they have to offer.

The southeastern region of the US boasts a fairly large number of America’s Scenic Byways.

North Carolina — Blue Ridge Parkway — One of America’s premier scenic drives winds along western North Carolina and into Virginia.

Blue Ridge Parkway

One stop along the parkway is the city of Asheville, which is the home of one of America’s most elegant mansions, the Biltmore Estate.

Biltmore Estate

North Carolina — Outer Banks Scenic Byway — The strip of barrier beaches that make up the Outer Banks is a unique area of the US and makes an interesting destination.

Wright Brothers Memorial, Kittyhawk

Florida — A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway — This short drive (26 miles) concentrates on the culturally historic town of St Augustine which claims to be America’s oldest city.

Castillo de San Marcos

Florida — Florida Keys Scenic Highway — The 100 or so miles from the mainland through the keys is memorable and scenic. With the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, travelers are immersed in island culture. The end of the journey is the most unforgettable. Key West is the epitome of indomitable, avant-garde, off-beat culture.

Conch Train, Key West

Florida — Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway — This drive along the coast from Cape Canaveral to Sebastian Inlet includes a stop at the Kennedy Space Center, home of America’s Space Program.

Vehicle Assembly Building