Breathtaking Byways and Their Authentic Stories
There’s a very special collection of roads in America that not everyone is aware of. Some states call them Scenic Byways, others Scenic and Historic Byways. There are some Back Country Byways, National Forest Service Byways and even some Historic Byways, Historic Backways, and Heritage Corridors. At National Travel Center, we refer to them all as Byways, routes that truly tell the story of the places where they pass through.
All together, they offer astounding scenery, intriguing history, unparalleled stories of culture and heritage, and most importantly, great experiences for travelers who want to immerse themselves in new trips. Plus, they deliver much needed economic development in areas where it’s often hardest to come by.
This website is filled with those routes – offered up for the enjoyment of visitors from all walks of life. Routes that are especially designated by the Federal Highway Administration as All American Roads – the most prestigious designation incorporating qualities along the road not found anywhere else. National Scenic Byways are designated based on their unique scenery or history/heritage. US states also designate Byways to preserve the qualities along the road for future generations. National Forest Scenic Byways traverse a National Forest, and the National Park Service has Scenic Byways in National Parks, National Heritage Areas and on their specifically designated Historic Trails.
Every detailed Byway itinerary found here is organized into very doable days, keeping in mind these are leisure trips. Each attraction description includes the address, telephone number, hours of operation and admission fee, with customarily no more than four stops along a route during a day. That leaves time to savor lunch and a relaxing evening dining on unique, local cuisine. Accommodations and dining recommendations are placed appropriately. Each itinerary begins in a gateway city with commercial air service, so visitors can fly from another part of the country to enjoy a Byway.
The ultimate goal of this website is to feature all 1,100+ Byways in the United States, complemented with other treasured roads. All will be promoted robustly to travelers in America as well as visitors from overseas who love to travel these routes.