6 Scenic Southern US Drives To Cruise Through This Summer
Going for a ride is a great way to clear your head, to do something different for date night, and even explore parts of your city or state that you’ve never even seen before. Ideal for long summer road trips or even to get away for a day, these scenic southern drives through Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi will give you views for miles. So fill your tank, crank your favorite tunes, and get ready to hit the road.
These roadways are full of history and the beauty of nature, winding you past landmarks, natural wonders, and hidden gems.
Whether you’re in it for the long haul or just want to get away for a couple of hours, you’ll definitely be stopping for photos along the way. Wing it or plan ahead, there are plenty of stops to check out for bites, sights, and interesting tidbits of the area.
Some spots are better experienced during different seasons, so you’ll definitely want to make more than one trip down these old roads in the spring and fall.
Clear your head, learn something new, and explore your city in a way you’ve never seen it before on these six breathtaking scenic southern US drives.
Magnolia Springs
Address: Oak Street, Magnolia Springs, AL
Why You Need To Go: This picturesque tunnel of oak trees makes for the perfect evening stroll, bike riding path, or relaxing summer drive.
11-Mile Scenic Drive
Address: Little River Canyon Center, 472 Alabama Hwy 35, Fort Payne, AL
Why You Need To Go: This scenic drive is 11 miles of uninterrupted Alabamian beauty, with plenty of lookout spots along the way to stop and admire the views. Waterfalls galore to stop and explore on this one!
Martin Grade Scenic Highway
Address: 29751 SW. Martin Hwy., Okeechobee, FL
Why You Need To Go: This historic road takes you through 12 miles of ancient oaks, as well as through all of Florida’s classic environments like barrier islands, lagoons, rivers, and lakes.
Old Seven Mile Bridge
Address: Marathon, FL
Why You Need To Go: Once known as the "8th Wonder of the World", this historic bridge will give you views of The Keys like nothing else. You can even bike or walk it.
The Great River Road
Address: Interpretive Center In Mississippi at 1 Riverpark Dr., Robinsonville, MS
Why You Need To Go: The Great River Road is the ultimate road trip. You can start at the interpretive center in Mississippi. Then, you can meander along the road for another 3,000 miles, through 10 states, if you really want to go the distance and see it all.
Natchez Trace Parkway
Address: 2680 Natchez Trace Pkwy., Tupelo, MS
Why You Need To Go: This 444-mile road follows a trail full of historic and cultural spots to explore, even some good biking, horseback riding, and hiking trails. You’ll find tons of fascinating sights on the Natchez Trace.
Happy cruising!
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.