Alabama is a state with a rich history and stunning natural scenery, from the white sand beaches on the southern coast to the Appalachian Mountains in the north. A lot of people don’t realize just how much scenic diversity Alabama has to offer!

Whether you’re passing through Alabama as part of a larger road trip or hoping to explore more of the state during your travels, we’ve done the research to find the best scenic drives in Alabama.

Traveling along these scenic byways in Alabama, you’ll get the opportunity to visit some of the state’s historical sites and get an appreciation for the incredible natural beauty of the southern United States.

1. Alabama Scenic Drives: Natchez Trace Parkway

Distance: 444 miles (entire route across 3 states), about 100 miles in Alabama
Time needed: We recommend planning for 1 day of driving the Alabama section of the parkway for stops and exploring.

Crossing the states of Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee, the Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the most historically significant scenic drives in northern Alabama.

In the past, this route was given the nickname “The Devil’s Backbone” on account of the bandits and robbers who liked to take advantage of passing travelers. Today, there’s no need to worry about theft, just the opportunity to explore small towns and amazing natural scenery in Alabama!

The Natchez Trace Parkway is mainly well known for its wildflowers, and there are over 100 native species found along the route visible at different times of the year. There are also opportunities for hiking, camping, and picnicking if you want to spend even more time outdoors!

Keep in mind that sections of this byway in Alabama are designated bike routes, so be sure to drive carefully and watch for cyclists on the road.

When to go: Any time of year is good to travel the Natchez Trace Parkway, but if you’re hoping to see the wildflowers along the byway, then spring through early autumn is the best time.

2. Alabama Scenic Drives: Alabama’s Coastal Connection

Distance: 130 miles
Time needed: 3 hours to 1 day, depending on stops

Traversing the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll find some spectacular coastal scenery while driving this scenic byway in Alabama.

There are plenty of places to stop along the way to dip your feet in the warm water, get pictures of the lagoons and bayous, and taste some of the freshly caught seafood at local restaurants!

This area of Alabama is a natural haven, and you’ll pass by protected areas such as the Dauphin Island Audubon Sanctuary and Gulf State Park which offer opportunities to get out and stretch your legs along the trails. Birders will be particularly interested in this scenic drive in Alabama since the sanctuaries are home to some unique species of birds, and the region is an essential stop for many migratory species.

The Alabama coastal connection also passes some important historic sites like the historic Fort Morgan and the city of Fairhope, where you’ll find a fascinating history museum and lots of charming shops and restaurants in the downtown area.

When to go: You can travel the Alabama coastal connection at any time of year, but summer months are best for beachgoers, and spring and fall are best for birders hoping to see migratory species.

3. Alabama Scenic Drives: Talladega Scenic Drive

Distance: 26 miles
Time needed: 1-5 hours, depending on stops

One of the best drives in northern Alabama, the Talladega Scenic Drive takes you on gently winding roads through the Talladega National Forest set in the Appalachian Highlands. The route will bring you to Alabama’s highest point, Cheaha Mountain, where you can appreciate a stunning vista of the mountains and forest scenery!

Cheaha Mountain also makes a great point to stop for lunch since there are several restaurants and some souvenir shops near the peak where you can enjoy the stunning view and a delicious meal at the same time.

This scenic byway is close to Birmingham, and the route itself isn’t very long, making it easy to add to your itinerary for your road trip to Alabama. However, if you have time to explore, you can spend a whole day checking out the hiking trails and lookout points along the drive.

When to go: The byway is great to visit at all times of the year, although autumn is known for its stunning colors, and birders often travel the byway during spring and fall migration times.

4. Alabama Scenic Drives: Selma to Montgomery Historic Trail

Distance: 54 miles
Time needed: 1.5 hours direct or up to a day for exploring and stops

One of the most important historic byways in Alabama, the Selma to Montgomery route traverses the path marchers took during the Civil Rights Movement. There were three marches in total, the last one ending in Montgomery with one of Dr. Martin Luther King’s most famous speeches delivered to a crowd of nearly 30,000 people! 

Driving this Alabama byway, you’ll have the chance to visit many of the historic points along the trail.

Marchers would usually walk between seven to 17 miles a day and camp at predetermined sites along the way, where farmers or homeowners welcomed marchers despite the threats they often received from those who opposed the Civil Rights Movement. Each of these campsites, such as the Robert Gardner Farm and the Rosie Steele Property, are now marked so you can take a break to visit these crucial resting places.

Make sure you plan on stopping for photos at the Edmund Pettus Bridge, one of the most notable sites on the route where marchers were confronted by law enforcement.

When traveling this scenic byway in Alabama, we’d recommend planning for extra time in both Selma and Montgomery to see the historical sites in these cities, like the Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma and the Alabama State Capital Building in Montgomery!

When to go: Any time of year is great to travel the Selma to Montgomery Historic Trail.

5. Alabama Scenic Drives: The Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway

Distance: 80 miles
Time needed: 3-6 hours, depending on stops

Exploring the Appalachian region in the north is a must for any road trip in Alabama, and the Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway is one of the best routes to take. The 80 miles of gentle twists and turns through the mountains bring you past stunning vistas and beautiful green landscapes!

For those interested in getting out to do some exploration and spend more time in nature, there are several trail systems along the route, including the Lloyd Owens Canoe Trail and the River Canyon National Preserve.

You can make a whole day out of this trip by picking one of the five landing points on the Lloyd Owens Canoe Trail and floating down the peaceful Tallapoosa River! It’s a fun activity the whole family can enjoy during a road trip in Alabama.

If you’re more pressed for time, there’s no need to get out of the car to appreciate the views on this scenic byway in Alabama, such as the incredible vista from Lookout Mountain. We’d still definitely recommend stopping for some photographs!

This Alabama byway also passes through several historical areas, such as Fort Payne and the Benge Route Trail of Tears Historic Marker.

The town of Heflin can either be the beginning or ending point of the trip, and we’d recommend spending a bit of time in the historic downtown area, where you’ll find some great local restaurants and buildings dating back to the 1890s. 

You can also combine the Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway and Talladega Scenic Drive on the same day since the two connect near the town of Heflin.

When to go: Each season has something unique to offer; in the spring, the area is known for its incredible wildflowers, and summer is great for vacationers and hiking. In the autumn, you can appreciate the colorful leaves, and winters are generally mild and good for driving.

Continuing Your Road Trip Adventures in the South

For more driving inspiration through the US Southern States, you may also want to read about:

• The 6 Most Scenic Drives Through Tennesse
• Best Attractions and Things to Do in Louisiana
• Unmissable Dreamy Drives through Georgia
• 5 Sensational Scenic Drives in Mississippi
• 12 Sensational Southern Road Trip Ideas

Further Tips For An Alabama Road Trip

Before you hit the road in Alabama, you may also want to be aware of the following:

• Pedestrians in Alabama have the right of way (even if they are illegally crossing the road!)
• It is law in Alabama if using your windscreen wipers to also use your headlights
• Had a drink before getting behind the wheel? The BAC limit is 0.08% (0.2% for under 21s)
• You can check traffic and road conditions with ALDOT before your set out
• Never forget an important road-tripping item again! Head over here to see our road trip essentials checklist and download your own printable copy.

© Family Road Trip

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No country in the world does road trips quite like the United States, and Southern USA is where you’ll find some of the best of them. 

A Deep South USA road trip is an experience like no other. Thanks to its humongous size and the plethora of states it contains, the southern region of the USA provides some of the best roads and highways out there, each one with a very different cultural flavor and scenery than the last! 

From overseas highways above turquoise waters to endless deserts and towns that brim with history, each and every single southern states road trip has something interesting on offer. 

Below, we share some of the best southern road trips every single traveler needs to do at least once in their life! 

12 Sensational Southern USA Road Trips 

1. Miami to Key West Overseas Highway (Highway 1), Florida 

Taking you all the way from Miami to Key West through over-the-ocean bridges that connect the Keys, this mesmerizing highway is one of the most classic southern states road trips and a favorite for those who love sunny days and endless beaches. 

It goes without saying that the scenery along its 113 miles is as spectacular as it gets. Each and every mile, you’ll be treated to beautiful ocean views and white sand beaches as you make your way to Key West. 

While the trip can be completed in less than a day, it’s recommended to spend several days on this trip as there are plenty of incredible destinations worth making a stop at to explore. Top highlights include Key Largo, Islamorada, Bahia Honda State Park, and the underwater John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. 

The best time of the year to do this southern states road trip is between March and May when hurricane season is over and the winter crowds have tapered off. 

2. Skyline Drive, Virginia 

Starting in Richmond, the Skyline Drive will have you seeing some of the best the state of Virginia has to offer as you make your way to the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.  

Even though this road is only 105 miles long, it can very well be turned into a multi-day southern road trip as there are plenty of stops worth making along the way for hiking aficionados. 

The drive will take you along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains inside Shenandoah National Park. All along the highway, you’ll find plenty of trailheads to park your car and go for a hike, as well as several campsites for those who want to spend the night inside the park.  

The best time to do the Skyline Drive is September through November, when the park gets wrapped up in gorgeous fall foliage. 

3. Chipley to Rainbow Springs State Park, Florida 

If you’re up for a few days spent chasing waterfalls, this southern states road trip through Florida is guaranteed to please. 

Starting in Chipley Falling Waters State Park, you’ll make your way all the way to Rainbow Springs State Park. Along the route, you’ll get to see the highest waterfalls in Florida, gaze at plenty of natural sinkholes, and spend a few hours exploring Torreya State Park.

Moreover, you’ll also get the option to stop at plenty of other parks such as the Big Shoals State Park and Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, where you’ll be able to see a series of waterfalls crashing down into a sinkhole that contains an actual mini rainforest!  

This road trip can be done any time of the year but keep in mind that the summer months are usually the warmest and wettest. With that said, summers are when the waterfalls look the most impressive due to the rain, so take your pick! 

4. Pineywoods Autumn Trail, Texas 

Vineyards, fairytale-like forests, and autumn colors are the staples of the Pineywood Autumn Trail in Texas. 

While it’s much lesser known than other southern states road trip routes, this 145-mile loop between Palestine and Athens will have you passing plenty of forests and parks worth making a stop at to take a walk and truly take in the golden and crimson tones. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also fly above the fall foliage at Texas ZipLine Adventures! 

As if that weren’t enough, Pineywood is also dotted by tons of idyllic lakes and vineyards. This route includes the Tara Vineyard & Winery for those keen to get a taste of Texas’s hidden wine country, but if you still haven’t gotten your fill of grapes, you can continue the road trip onwards over the Piney Woods Wine Trail, which is dotted by over 20 wineries.  

Autumn is definitely the best time to do this road trip, especially considering it’s a mecca for fall hues. If you’re unable to do it at this time of the year, spring is another great choice for mild weather and colorful blooms. 

5. Tuscaloosa to Eutaw, Alabama 

If you love all things vintage, artsy vibes, places that feel as local as they get, and historical architecture, this Alabama scenic road trip is everything you’ve been looking for. 

As you make your way from Tuscaloosa to Eutaw in West Alameda, you’ll pass plenty of antique shops, art galleries galore, and a plethora of antebellum mansions, not to mention you’ll also get the chance to make a few detours. 

A few highlights of this road trip include the Courthouse Square in Eutaw, the lakes that surround the town of Livingston, and getting to drive over the Alamuchee-Bellamy Covered Bridge, a wooden bridge that is said to be haunted by an outlaw who was hanged there! 

Spring and fall are the best time of the year to do this road trip as the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers are also pleasant for warm-weather lovers, although this is the high season in Alabama and cities like Tuscaloosa can get pretty crowded. 

6. Haunted Oklahoma, Oklahoma 

Love all things haunted? If you consider yourself a bit of a daredevil, this deep south road trip is definitely one to remember!  

This sensational road trip travels through some of Oklahoma’s most haunted cities, including Tulsa, Ponca City, Alva, and El Reno before looping its way back to Oklahoma City. 

All of these spots are great to spend the night in, but the main reason to visit them is to check out a few of its most haunted buildings. Highlights in Tulsa include the Gandini’s Circus in Edmond, an abandoned carnival, the Hex House, and Cain’s Ballroom.

In Ponca City, visit the Constantine Theater & Poncan Theater, which are said to be incredibly haunted and don’t forget to check out the Cherokee Strip Museum in Alva, which is believed to be extremely ghost-ridden. 

The best time to do this Oklahoma road trip is from late March to early June and September to November when the weather is temperate. Bonus points if you do it in late October for Halloween! 

7. Outer Banks Scenic Byway, North Carolina 

Starting in Nags Head, this scenic byway runs all the way to Ocracoke Island and back to the mainland (yes, a ferry journey is included here!). 

As one of the most iconic routes in North Carolina, this road trip in the southern US is a great addition to your bucket list, taking you through one of the most popular vacation destinations on the US east coast. 

Along the way, you’ll get to visit Bodie Island, Cape Hatteras, and if you like hiking, you can also spend a few hours exploring the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Ocracoke Island is another must-do stop for beautiful beaches, and if you’re feeling up for a day trip, you can hire a boat to the alluring Portsmouth Island.  

The best time of the year to do this road trip is between April to mid-June and early September to late October. 

8. Haunted Louisiana, Louisiana 

Another of the best southern USA road trips for those who love all things spooky, this incredible route will have you checking out some of the most beautiful (and haunted) sites in a state that is already infamous for its paranormal activity. 

The route begins in Keachi and ends in Fort Proctor, following mostly the I-49. Along the way, you’ll get to make stops at deserted schools, sugar plantations, and plenty of mills. There’s even an abandoned Six Flax on the way – it’s illegal to enter the premises, but even the sight from the road is enough to send chills down your spine! 

Must-do stops include Laurel Valley Sugar Plantation, Fort Proctor, Elise Reuss Memorial School, Charles Boldt Paper Mill, Kisatchie High School, and Keachi Women’s College.  

Louisiana is best visited between mid-February to early May and from October to December for mild weather. This road trip is a great idea for a Halloween adventure, or you can combine it with a Mardi Gras trip in February instead! 

9. Tennessee Waterfalls Road Trip, Tennessee 

If you love nature and all things waterfalls, the Tennessee Waterfalls route is one of the best southern road trips to take for outdoor adventures. 

This gorgeous drive will show you some of the best the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer. The drive starts at Cumming Falls on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River, where you can freshen up and swim before continuing to Burgess Falls to check out four different waterfalls. 

Next, you can make a stop at Falls Creek Falls and finish up the trip at Twin Falls to end the trip with a bang! 

This road trip is a summer favorite, but fall is also a great time to do it for fall foliage – you can catch all our favorite Smoky Mountain scenic drives here.

10. Hilton Head to Charleston, South Carolina 

Starting on Hilton Head, an island just off the coast of South Carolina, this epic road trip will have you seeing the absolute best the Palmetto State has to offer. 

The drive is technically only 90 miles long, but there are plenty of wonderful spots to overnight in if you have the time. As you make your way to Charleston, you’ll get the chance to enjoy plenty of coastal scenery and small-town charm.

Stops worth making include Hunting Island State Park for secluded beaches, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge for wildlife spotting, and Beaufort for antebellum mansions. 

Summer is the best time to do this road trip for perfect beach weather. 

11. Midland Trail, West Virginia 

Gorgeous nature, charming historical towns, local art, pioneer history, pretty waterfalls, and plenty of mystery are just a few of the aspects that make this deep south USA road trip a true gem. 

Covering over 100 miles between Charleston and Sam Black Church in West Virginia, this scenic byway crosses some of the most rugged areas of the Mountain State. The road is believed to have been originally carved out into the mountains by buffalo and native tribes of the area. 

Some of the top highlights to check out for nature include Hawks Nest State Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, while historical sites that are musts include The Ruffner Log Cabin, Salt Village, Old Stone House, and the colonial town of Lewisburg. 

Fall is a great time to do this road trip for beautiful autumn colors, but spring and late summer are perfect for comfortable weather. 

12. The Blues Highway, Tennessee and Mississippi 

Along this epic road trip, you’ll get to visit some of the places where rock and roll, rhythm and blues, jazz, and country music were born, inspired by the melodies of the cotton fields of the Mississippi Delta. 

The Blues Highway follows Route 61 between Memphis and Vicksburg, taking you right into the heart of American Music.  

Must-do stops include the Gateway to the Blues Museum in Tunica, the Delta Blues Museum and Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, and the Back in the Day Museum in Greenwood, where you can also visit the grave of Robert Johnson. 

Memphis is full of kid-friendly attractions including the acclaimed Children’s Museum and Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest urban parks in America. Ride the trolley and stroll historic Beale Street during the day.

Further on, make a stop at Yazoo County for authentic Bentonia Blues at the Blue Front Café before heading to Indianola to check out the B.B. King Museum. The Mississippi Grammy Museum in Cleveland is also a treat, and a can’t-miss stop is the Dockery Plantation, where the genre was born! 

More Great US Road Trips

If you’re looking for more great US road trip inspiration, you may want to check out next:

• The Best American Road Trips To Take With Your Kids
• The Best of the Midwest – Unmissable Family Road Trips
• Taking on the US East Coast National Parks in One Epic Road Trip

© Family Road Trip 2026

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