The 13 Best Backroads In Florida For A Long Scenic Drive
You don’t have to be the outdoorsy type to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty. There are plenty of scenic drives with views of the Sunshine State’s wild forests, breathtaking beaches, and awesome attractions. So jump in the car and get ready for an unforgettable trip on one of these scenic roads. You’re going to love exploring the best backroads in Florida.
This is probably Florida’s most famous scenic drive, often recognized as one of the most beautiful drives in the country. With more than 100 miles of gorgeous views surrounded by water, with glimpses of dolphins and manatees and the old Railway bridge, this is a truly unforgettable drive.
This section of A1A sits on a barrier island between the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, making it one of the most scenic roads in the entire state. Highlights include lots of native wildlife and the nation's oldest city, St. Augustine. This road makes you want to rent a convertible so you can put down the top and feel the salty air in your hair.
This road, which opened in 1928, takes you back in time to a Florida before the theme parks and condos. It covers 70 miles along US 41 from Sarasota to the Hillsborough County line. Don't be surprised if you see a few alligators along the way. Whether you stop at some of Florida’s oldest roadside attractions or visit the Myakka State Forest, this trail has a lot to teach us about Florida’s history.
This road reminds us just how beautiful our Panhandle is, running past sky-high pines, emerald waters, and some of Florida's most enchanting and unique natural environments.
This scenic byway takes you right through the heart of the Ocala National Forest, where you will find some of the most picturesque Florida springs, lush foliage, and rare animals. This is the perfect road trip road, especially for a summer trip that includes lots of resfreshing swimming holes.
The area explored on the Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway has something for everyone. Highlights include beaches, wildlife refuges and the Kennedy Space Center.
The perfect drive for an outdoor enthusiast, highlights of this trail in Southwest Florida include pristine beaches, Tippecanoe Environmental Park, and Myakka State Forest.
This 28.5-mile road hugs the Gulf of Mexico coastline in Northwest Florida’s Walton County. 30A is beloved for its white sand beaches and unique coastal dune lakes. Make sure to stop and check out Grayton Beach, an artistic community with lovely beaches and a great state park.
This road features historic attractions and opportunities for outdoor recreation, including Bay Bluffs Park and Chimney Park, along with panoramic views from the clay bluffs of Escambia Bay.
Scenic US 441 near Alachua offers access to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, one of the most loved parks in Florida, in addition to the antiquing town of Micanopy and the home of Florida writer Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings in Cross Creek. It’s a lovely drive shaded by mossy oaks in true Florida fashion.
Although it is a toll road, this 42-mile scenic parkway provides a nice, long, relaxing drive through some beautiful stretches of verdant land. There are lots of nature parks and trails along the way.
Get a taste of Old Florida on this 30-mile double loop in Volusia County. Museums, historic buildings, wildlife, beaches, and state and local parks can all be found along this route.
Travel back in time along almost 40 miles along Lake Wales Ridge on SR 17 in Polk County. This road meanders through the historic communities and rural sites that Central Florida is renowned for. Not only will you have some amazing views, you can expect access to lakes, natural areas, and citrus fields.
Want to find a scenic road near you? Check out this map made by Florida Scenic Highways.
Have you taken any of these scenic drives in Florida? What are your favorite pretty places in Florida? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below and tell us your favorite of the best backroads in Florida.
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Address: Florida Keys, 4590 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050, USA
Address: A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway, St. Augustine, FL, USA
Address: Tamiami Trail, Miami, FL, USA
Address: Big Bend Scenic Byway Coastal Trail, Florida, USA
Address: Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway Marker, Altoona, FL 32702, USA
Address: Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway Coalition, Inc., 114 Chipola Rd, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931, USA
Address: FL-70, Myakka City, FL, USA
Address: 30 Scenic Hwy, Haines City, FL 33844, USA
Address: FL-10A, Pensacola, FL, USA
Address: US-441, Kenansville, FL, USA
Address: FL-589 Toll, Florida, USA
Address: Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail, Ormond Beach, FL 32176, USA
Address: FL-17, Avon Park, FL, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best backroads in Florida
January 29, 2020
Elisa Regulski
What is the best scenic drive in Florida?
The Florida Keys Scenic Highway, featured above, is widely considered to be one of the best scenic drives in Florida. In fact, it has been named one of the most gorgeous drives in the entire country. If you don’t know which route to take first, start here. You can never go wrong with these sparkling waterfront views. If you’re looking for beautiful highways in Florida, this road will definitely meet your expectations.
What are the most beautiful places in Florida?
We all know that there are so many pretty places in Florida. Sometimes, the immense beauty can feel overwhelming. Before you get lost in the numerous options, head over to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. This is a must-visit Florida destination, and it’s full of classic beauty. Sink your toes into the soft sand and relax under a shady palm tree. This, my friends, is what dreams are made of. Falling Waters State Park, located in Chipley, is another astonishing place in Florida. This 70-foot rushing waterfall will make your heart skip a beat, and you’ll never grow tired of looking at it. Bring your camera and capture the memories. This state park in Florida is simply magnificent.
What are the best scenic overlooks in Florida?
Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead offers some lovely views. You’ll find this picturesque destination tucked inside a park in Lake County. While it may not be the most well-known scenic destination, it’s packed with awe-inspiring views. Come here at sunset and watch the sky change colors around you. It’ll make you fall in love with Florida all over again.
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