Ever have a day where you find yourself searching for the “best driving roads near me” and longing to get out of the house? Well, that’s precisely what scenic drives are for: taking you away from it all! Just look out of the window of your car, and you can find a beautiful New York movie playing for you as you drive along some of the stunning routes we’ve curated for you. From roads tucked between beautiful mountains to drives right along the waterfront, these are seven of the best scenic drives in New York to take when you need a long drive filled with beauty.

1. High Peaks Scenic Byway
New York 73, NY-73, Lake Placid, NY, USA
Brandon Atkinson/Flickr
If you plan on taking a ride down Route 73 and it's your first time doing so, try to make a point to be the passenger if you can! With so many gorgeous surroundings, it can feel hard to keep your eyes on the road if you're the one who's driving. The scenic byway takes you from Route 9 to Lake Placid, passing through some of our most charming Adirondack towns and giving you an up-close look at some of our tallest mountains and roadside lakes. It's definitely one of the best scenic drives in New York. Check out our previous article about the High Peaks Scenic Byway for more information.
2. Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway
Catskill Mountains, Shandaken, NY 12464, USA
Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway/Facebook
Take a drive down Route 28 inside of Catskill Park and you can enjoy a winding road that's full of natural wonders. Throughout the year, you can find adventurers from all over traveling along this road to take advantage of local hiking and skiing areas as well as stopping along the route to check out quaint shops. Roughly 50 miles long, this scenic byway makes for a great day trip destination if you're interested in exploring. Check out our previous article about the Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway for more information.
3. Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway
New York 431, NY-431, Wilmington, NY 12997, USA
ActiveSteve/Flickr
What this drive lacks in mileage, it absolutely makes up for with views! The mountain highway is only eight miles long, but don't think that this will be too short of an experience. From start to finish, you'll find handfuls of places where you can pull over to enjoy the views and give your car a rest since you'll find yourself ascending over 2,000 feet. The highway takes you up New York's fifth tallest mountain and is one of the most unforgettable drives you'll ever take in our state. Check out our previous article about the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway for more information.

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4. Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway
Cayuga Lake, New York, USA
Riva's Rides/Facebook
A great way to see what the Finger Lakes region is all about, this scenic byway takes you on a nearly 100-mile adventure around Cayuga Lake. The beautiful road takes you through the rolling hills of farmland that you'll find out this way, passing by state parks, wineries, waterfalls, and small towns that will have you falling in love. Check out our previous article about the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway for more information.

While you're in the Finger Lakes region, be sure to stop by Watkins Glen State Park. It boasts 19 waterfalls!
5. Upper Delaware Scenic Byway
Upper Delaware Scenic Byway, 585 NY-97, Sparrow Bush, NY 12780, USA
Firoz Ansari/Flickr
Curving its way back and forth along our state border, Route 97 is a beautiful ride to take this time of the year. Taking you on a 70-mile long scenic drive, the jaw-dropping byway features pull-offs where you can stop to photograph your views as well as plenty of small-town charms like antique shops, general stores, and places to eat. Check out our previous article about the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway for more information.
6. Route 41 & 41A
Skaneateles Lake, New York, USA
Skaneateles Suites/Flickr
One of the most breathtaking bodies of water that you can find out in the Finger Lakes region is Skaneateles Lake. The water is as vibrant as something you would find in the Caribbean and something most people don't expect to see here in New York. Hop on Route 41 in the town of Skaneateles, and follow it down along the lake. Eventually, near the town of Homer, the road connects with Route 41A. Continue along Route 41A, and you'll be led back up along the other side of the lake, leading you back to the charming town where you began this adventure.
7. Prospect Mountain Highway
Prospect Mountain Highway, Prospect Mountain Hwy, Lake George, NY, USA
KC C./Yelp
Built back in 1969, this scenic backroad is one that New Yorkers have been enjoying for ages. Taking you up to beautiful Prospect Mountain, you'll get a gorgeous look at Lake George from above as well as our Adirondack Mountains that surround the area. The ride up will only take just over two miles, giving you places to stop along the way before you reach the very top. Check out our previous article about the Prospect Mountain Highway for more information.

So, there you have it. Consider your search for the “best driving roads near me” over! Oh, and don’t forget to check out our Road Trip Snack Guide for 50 delicious ways to stay fueled on your travels.

What do you think are the best driving roads near NYC? What about any other “scenic drives near me” in New York as a whole? Let us know in the comments! To soak up more amazing views, soar up above with This Scenic Flight Over New York’s Mountains That Everyone Should Take Before They Die.

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best scenic drives in new york

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What are the best roadside attractions in New York?

How does a road trip to the best roadside attractions in New York sound right about now? Well, you can’t go wrong on this fun road trip that spans just over 250 miles. Gas up the car, and visit such popular roadside attractions as:

It's almost 30 feet in diameter!

This three-person chapel is only accessible via a rowboat.

You won't find a souvenir shop as unique as this one.

Stop by the 20-foot tall duck that’s a museum and a gift shop. You’ll find an assortment of duck-themed souvenirs, perfect for commemorating your visit.

Are there any other scenic drives in New York?

You’ll find a ton of scenic drives in New York that are perfect for a leisurely ride, including:

This hair-raising ride boasts 100 curves and follows along the Delaware River.

Leading up Prospect Mountain, the 5.5-mile drive features several overlooks, including The Eagle’s Eye, The Narrows, and Lake George Panorama.

Are there other similar things to do in New York when you have a free afternoon?

On the hunt for more things to do in New York, specifically during a free afternoon? Check out these places:

You can explore the gorge on foot, setting off on stairways, on trails, and on walkways.

  • If you’ve got a free afternoon, consider a visit to The Tepee in Cherry Valley

The most unique souvenir shop in New York, The Tepee offers a collection of Native American-crafted souvenirs and souvenir mugs.

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