Sometimes the scenic route is the best choice. And in gorgeous and historic Virginia, you’ll never regret taking the long way. These drives have spectacular scenery and cultural landmarks.
If you’re looking for some of the best scenic drives in America, then you’ve come to the right place. There are many scenic byways in Virginia that offer gorgeous views and lots of history.
Here are our favorites. Come enjoy some beautiful American roads.
Our favorite scenic byways in Virginia
1. Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is a 105-mile drive in Shenandoah National Park that takes visitors on an amazing journey through the park’s scenery. The road runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing stunning views of the landscape below. There are numerous scenic overlooks and hiking trails located along the drive, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
The Skyline Drive is a 105-mile drive through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The drive offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains, and there are 75 overlooks to take in the scenery. The website for Skyline Drive has all the information you need about the park, including directions on how to access it.
2. Hunt Country Drive (Middleburg Area)
The Hunt Country Drive is a scenic drive located in Virginia. The drive is approximately 60 miles long and takes two hours to complete. The sights include farms, quaint towns, and the Shenandoah foothills.
The Southern Loudoun + Northern Fauquier County Scenic Drive is a beautiful route that takes visitors through small towns, farms, and open parkland. There are plenty of things to do along the way, including wine tastings, restaurants, and apple picking. Visitors will enjoy taking in the natural beauty of the area while experiencing all that this scenic drive has to offer.
3. Virginia Coal Heritage Trail
The Virginia Coal Heritage Trail is a scenic drive in Southwestern Virginia that takes visitors through the coal mining history of Virginia. The drive is approximately 100 miles long and takes about four hours to complete. The trail includes a number of historic sites, such as the Appalachian Coalfields, the Pocahontas Exhibition Mine, and the Louisa Railroad.
4. The Nelson Scenic Loop
The Nelson Scenic Loop is a great option for those who want to experience the best of Virginia’s scenery. The loop offers a combination of gorgeous mountain views and lively farmlands. It is also home to some charming small towns, which make for a perfect stop on your drive.
5. Journey Through Hallowed Ground
The Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Scenic Byway is a 175-mile drive that takes visitors through some of the most historic sites in Virginia. The route includes stops at places such as Monticello, Harpers Ferry, and Gettysburg. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and camping.
6. George Washington Memorial Parkway
The George Washington Memorial Parkway is a scenic drive that takes visitors through the historical sites of Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. The parkway is approximately 125 miles long and takes about four hours to complete. There are numerous stops along the way, including Mount Vernon, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Pentagon.
It’s LONG, but you see SO much.
7. Mountain Valley Road
The Mountain Valley Road is a scenic drive located in the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia. The road is approximately 45 miles long and takes about two hours to complete. The drive offers stunning views of the mountains and passes by numerous small towns.
8. John Marshall Highway
The John Marshall Highway is a scenic drive that takes visitors through the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. The highway is approximately 190 miles long and takes about eight hours to complete. The drive offers visitors a chance to see the natural beauty of the valley, as well as visit some of the historical sites in the area.
9. Colonial Parkway
It links historic sites in Virginia’s historic triangle and is 23 miles long. The Parkway is designed for an enjoyable ride on over 400-year-old American colonial history.
You can begin your drive in Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America. From there, you can head to Colonial Williamsburg, the capital of Virginia from 1699 until 1780. Finally, you’ll reach Yorktown Battlefield, the site of the decisive in 1781 that ended the American Revolutionary War.
10. Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile long scenic drive that connects Shenandoah National Park in the northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains. The parkway winds through the Appalachian Mountains and provides stunning views of the countryside.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic routes in Virginia. Winding along ancient ridges, plunging into lush valleys, and zooming through green pastures and brilliant fall foliage, this route takes you to some of the wonderful attractions and outdoor adventures in the region.
11. Great Falls Scenic Drive
The Great Falls Scenic Drive is a great option for those looking for a scenic drive in Virginia. The drive starts from the town library and goes through various different neighborhoods including Georgetown Pike.
The drive offers stunning views of the Potomac River and its many waterfalls.
No matter what your interests are, Virginia has a scenic drive for you. Whether you’re looking for a quiet country road or a highway that winds through the mountains, you’ll be able to find something to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Get in your car and start exploring some of the best scenic drives that Virginia has to offer!