The 7 Best Byways In Connecticut For A Long Scenic Drive

Route 169 travels about 38 miles through Connecticut and on into Massachusetts. Parts of the road are officially designated as historic districts, and it's also been officially named a National Scenic Byway. It is particularly magnificent in the fall and is a great place to see some of the state's beautiful foliage. You'll travel through some lovely towns, like Pomfret and Canterbury. This route has plenty of great stops to enjoy.

Another of our favorite scenic drives in Connecticut is U.S. Route 1. The road runs parallel to Interstate 95 and is about 117 miles total. It goes straight through the central area of Mystic (where it's called Main Street). It's a great road trip through lots of charming beach towns!

At only about 12 miles long, Connecticut 146 is not particularly lengthy, but it's a beautiful road. The Branford area is filled with gorgeous marshes, and the road ends in Guilford.

The Litchfield Hills Scenic Loop is absolutely stunning. This route goes through some of the most beautiful areas in Connecticut and straight to many of the state's best attractions. Kent Falls and White Memorial Conservation Center are both fantastic. Click here to check out some of the great stops along this route.

Route 7 (also called the Ethan Allen Highway) travels through some of the major cities in Connecticut, so there's plenty to see here. You'll go through Norwalk, Danbury, Canaan, and more. You'll pass right by the beautiful Housatonic River.

Merritt Parkway is not only one of the oldest parkways in the country, it's also been named a National Scenic Byway. It goes through some gorgeous forested areas and also has lovely overpass design. This scenic drive in Connecticut is practically synonymous with "beautiful roads."

Connecticut Route 94 is an east-west highway running about 10 miles from Glastonbury to Hebron. This is a stunning area that's perfect for outdoor lovers: there are lots of parks and trails to check out in the area.