27 Scenic Drives in Florida for Your Road Trip Bucket List

We believe the best way to explore the Sunshine State is to take one of the 27 scenic drives in Florida.

Backroads may take longer than jumping on busy highways or toll roads, but it’s a great way to celebrate the natural beauty of real Florida.

27 Scenic Road Trips in Florida

Taking the scenic route is the perfect excuse to check out some cool Florida State Parks or make a pit stop at national historic landmarks along the 1,524 miles of roads.

Whether cruising down the Gulf coastline or taking the Atlantic Ocean drive between Flagler Beach and St. Augustine, the views from these scenic drives in Florida are unforgettable.

It’s impossible for us to label just one of the scenic drives in Florida as a favorite because of their vast differences.

There’s no questioning that the experience you get driving the Overseas Highway down to Key West is very different than driving out to Cedar Key or through Ocala National Forest.

But they’re all great!

Florida Scenic Highways Program

Did you know the Florida Scenic Highways Program was established by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to showcase the outstanding intrinsic resources (cultural, historical, archaeological, recreational, natural, and scenic) found along Florida’s highway system?

The Florida Scenic Highway collection includes the 27 state-designated scenic highways we cover in this article.

Of the 27, consequently, six are further designated at a federal level as National Scenic Byways.

If you didn’t know, the terms highways and byways are interchangeable.

Additionally, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway and A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway are designated All-American Roads.

They are judged to have unique features that are nationally significant and considered to be tourist destinations.

The program is a grass-roots effort to heighten awareness of these natural wonders. These scenic roads enhance the overall traveling experience in Florida. 

So carve out the time and travel off the beaten path. Become a Florida rambler. Should you go this route (pun intended), you won’t be disappointed.

We also share links to articles we have written with many things to do near these sensational scenic roads.

So get your GPS ready, pack your favorite road trip snacks, and experience a scenic Florida road trip! Let’s Go!

Scenic Routes in Florida’s Northwest/Panhandle Region

Scenic Highway 30A

Driving along 30A is a treat, with peaceful Gulf views, hidden gem beach towns, and that laid-back Florida vibe we can’t get enough of.

• Length of the Byway: 24 Miles
• Designated Date: April 9, 2008, National Designation 2021
• FDOT District: 3
• More Info: friendsofscenic30a.com

Big Bend Scenic Byway

The coastal area of Big Bend largely follows U.S. 98, from just east of Apalachicola to just north of Tampa.

According to Visit Florida, it extends from the Ocklockonee River near Apalachee Bay, then southeast and down the west coast of Florida to Anclote Key.

Big Bend is a place of natural beauty and scenic wonders spanning 220 miles.

Here you can explore the Forest Trail, surrounded by lush pine forests and tranquil hardwood hammocks.

Or embark on the Coastal Trail, where you’ll encounter captivating salt marshes, picturesque bays, and majestic sand dunes.

This area is brimming with unique wildlife, stunning woodlands, enchanting waterways, and a way of life that’s truly special.

It’s no wonder, Big Bend is becoming a leading ecotourism destination in Florida.

• Length of the Byway: 220 Miles
• Designation Date: Nov. 14, 2006
• FDOT District: 3
• More Info: floridabigbendscenicbyway.org

Pensacola Scenic Bluffs Highway

If you are looking for fun things to do while exploring scenic drives in Florida in Northwest Florida, we’ve got you covered.

• Length of the Byway: 11 Miles
• Designated Date: April 24, 1998
• FDOT District: 3
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/panhandle-region/pensacola-scenic-bluffs/

Scenic Routes in Florida’s Northeast Region

A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway

• Length of the Byway: 72 Miles
• Designated Date: January 17, 2002, All-American Road Designation 2021
• FDOT District: 2 & 5
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/northern-region/a1a-scenic-historic-coastal-byway/

Old Florida Heritage Highway

• Length of the Byway: 45 Miles
• Designated Date: June 7, 2001
• FDOT District: 2
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/northern-region/old-florida-heritage-highway/

William Bartram Scenic & Historic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 17 Miles
• Designated Date: October 31, 2005
• FDOT District: 2
• More Info: https://bartramscenichighway.com/

J.C. Penney Memorial Scenic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 3 Miles
• Designated Date: April 30, 2010
• FDOT District: 2
• More Info: https://jcpenneyscenichighway.org/

Heritage Crossroads: Miles of History

• Length of the Byway: 98 Miles
• Designated Date: November 19, 2008
• FDOT District: 5
• More Info: http://heritagecrossroadshighway.org/

A1A Ocean Islands Trail

• Length of the Byway: 39.7 Miles
• Designated Date: July 26, 2016
• FDOT District: 2
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/northern-region/a1a-ocean-islands-trail/

If you are looking for fun things to do while exploring scenic drives in Northeast Florida, we’ve got you covered.

• Top Things To Do on Amelia Island
• Small Towns, Big Passions: Clay County, Florida
• Top Things to Do in Jacksonville
• Top Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop Near Anastasia State Park
• Fort Clinch State Park + Nearby Places to Eat, Stay, & Shop

Scenic Routes in Florida’s Central Region

Courtney Campbell Scenic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 10 Miles
• Designated Date: May 23, 2005
• FDOT District:7
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/central-region/courtney-campbell-scenic-highway/

Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway

• Length of the Byway: 123 Miles
• Designated Date: April 9, 2008, National Designation 2009
• FDOT District: 2 & 5
• More Info: https://floridablackbearscenicbyway.org/

Green Mountain Scenic Byway

• Length of the Byway: 45 Miles
• Designated Date: July 19, 2004
• FDOT District: 5
• More Info: https://greenmountainbyway.org/

Halifax Heritage Byway

• Length of the Byway: 35 Miles
• Designated Date: October 5, 2020
• FDOT District: 5
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/central-region/halifax-heritage-byway/

Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway

• Length of the Byway: 233 Miles
• Designated Date: June 13, 2000, National Designation 2002
• FDOT District: 5
• More Info: https://www.indianriverlagoonbyway.com/

Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail

• Length of the Byway: 34 Miles
• Designated Date: July 9, 2007, National Designation 2009
• FDOT District: 5
• More Info: https://ormondscenicloopandtrail.com/

Palma Sola Scenic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 6 Miles
• Designated Date: May 28, 2004
• FDOT District: 1
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/central-region/palma-sola-scenic-highway/

River of Lakes Heritage Corridor

• Length of the Byway: 156 Miles
• Designated Date: March 12, 2009, National Designation 2021
• FDOT District: 5
• More Info: https://riveroflakesheritagecorridor.org/

Scenic Sumter Heritage Byway

• Length of the Byway: 62 Miles
• Designated Date: May 2, 2013
• FDOT District: 5
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/central-region/scenic-sumter-heritage-byway/

Suncoast Scenic Parkway

• Length of the Byway: 42 Miles
• Designated Date: August 18, 2006
• FDOT District: Turnpike
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/central-region/suncoast-scenic-parkway/

The Ridge Scenic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 39 Miles
• Designated Date: February 16, 2005
• FDOT District: 1
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/central-region/ridge-scenic-highway/

We’ve got you covered if you want fun things to do while exploring scenic drives in Florida throughout Central Florida, Central West Florida, and Central East Florida.

• Get Authentic on Anna Maria Island & Cortez Village
• An Authentic Day Trip: Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway
• Our Favorite Freshwater Florida Springs
• Authentic Things to Do on the Palm Coast and Flagler Beaches
• Top Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach
• Best Places to Eat in New Smyrna Beach
• Reasons to Launch Your Trip to Florida’s Space Coast
• Race to Adventure in Daytona Beach (Volusia County)

Scenic Routes in Florida’s Southern Region

Martin Grade Scenic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 12 Miles
• Designated Date: January 28, 2015
• FDOT District: 4
• More Info:

Indian River Lagoon – Treasure Coast

• Length of the Byway: 42 Miles
• Designated Date: December 14, 2005
• FDOT District: 4
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/southern-region/indian-river-lagoon-treasure-coast/

Broward County A1A Scenic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 32 Miles
• Designated Date: July 20, 2009
• FDOT District: 4
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/southern-region/broward-county-a1a-scenic-highway/

Florida Keys Scenic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 110 Miles
• Designated Date: June 22, 2001
• FDOT District: 6
• More Info: https://www.scenichighwayflkeys.com/

Lemon Bay/Myakka Trail Scenic Highway

• Length of the Byway: 47 Miles
• Designated Date: April 9, 2008
• FDOT District: 1
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/southern-region/lemon-bay-myakka-trail-scenic-highway/

Tamiami Trail – Windows to the Gulf Coast

• Length of the Byway: 70 Miles
• Designated Date: December 19, 2003
• FDOT District: 1
• More Info: https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/southern-region/tamiami-trail-windows-gulf-coast-waters-scenic-highway/

If you are looking for fun things to do while exploring scenic drives in Southeast Florida, we’ve got you covered.

• Experience Miami’s Coral Gables Like a Local
• An Authentic Florida Upper Keys Road Trip (Key Largo)
• Islamorada: Small Town Island Charmer
• Enjoy a Fun-Filled Weekend In Authentic Key West
• Adventures in Awesome, Authentic Miami
• The Wynwood District in Miami: Beyond the Famous Walls
• Martin County, a Florida Remembered on the Treasure Coast
• A Weekend Escape to Stuart, An Authentic Treasure on the East Coast
• Best Things to Do in Vero Beach
• Fun Things to Do Around the Palm Beaches
• Top Things to Do in Coconut Grove Miami
• Authentic Things to Do in Little Havana

In conclusion, there are 1,524 miles of designated scenic highways to explore in Florida. There’s never a shortage of places to explore.

Certainly, let us know your favorite(s) and treasures you spotted during your travels in the comments below.

The FDOT puts out a calendar each year to celebrate the scenic highways. The calendar can be downloaded on the FDOT website.

Bonus Information

Annual A1A Super Scenic Garage Sale

This annual event was one of our Top Florida Events in November.

Friends of A1A and Florida Scenic Highway partners hold the longest Garage Sale in Northeast Florida.

There are many locations along the 150-mile route to stop and shop — some are residences along the A1A Byway and others are community centers or businesses.

Who: Friends of A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway (event coordinator) and partners: A1A Ocean Islands Trail (Nassau/Duval), Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail (Volusia), Halifax Heritage Byway (Volusia)

What: The 15th Annual Super Scenic 150 Mile Garage Sale

Where: From Fernandina Beach (Nassau) to Ponce Inlet (Volusia) along more than 150 Miles of Florida Scenic Highways

When: November 16, 2024, from 8am – 2pm.

Why: Friends of A1A strives to increase visitation/economic impact to the scenic sites and businesses along the Byways.

How: Friends of A1A uses registration fees to place ads in surrounding county press and internet news media, and to provide event signs. (NOTE: we are promoting this event because we think it’s cool. We are not being paid.)

Proceeds: Sellers retain all proceeds. Contributions to Friends of A1A are always welcome.

For more info, visit https://scenica1a.org/ or the Friends of A1A Facebook event page.

Florida’s Forgotten Coast Highway

#DYK: “Florida’s Forgotten Coast” received this name in the early 1990s because state tourism promoters often ‘forgot’ to include this area on their maps.

Ironically, since then, it has evolved into quite possibly the leading ecotourism destination in Florida.

Check out these articles focused on Florida’s Forgotten Coast:

• A Slice of Natural Beauty at St. Mark’s Wildlife Refuge
• Getaway to Authentic Apalachicola
• Discover St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
• Low Country Boil & Jazz Under the Full Moon
• Visiting St. George Island State Park

Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is an excellent place if you are searching for Florida wildlife. In fact, you’re guaranteed to see a variety of bird species and maybe even an alligator or two.

While in the area, check out:

• Best Things to Do in Mount Dora
• “Starry Night” Van Gogh House in Mount Dora
• Best Things to Do in Tavares, FL
• Best Things to Do in Leesburg, FL
• Best Things to Do in Clermont, FL
• Try This Baby Alpaca Yoga Class in Clermont, FL
• Best Sunflower Fields in Florida
• Best Florida Corn Mazes

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