Florida Scenic Route Named Among Best U.S. Road Trips

From rugged mountain passes to coastal highways and enchanting countryside routes, scenic drives are like stepping into a real-life postcard. Beyond being just a means of transportation, scenic road trips transform into unforgettable adventures. Travel + Leisure magazine narrowed down what they say are the best scenic road trips in the U.S.

The United States has an abundance of scenic drives, each with its own unique charm. From the breathtaking California coastline to the historically rich roads of New England, these routes offer a treat for the eyes at every turn. One such example is the mesmerizing 469-mile stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds its way past limestone caverns, crystal-clear mountain springs, and the majestic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Depending on the season, the views may vary, painting the landscape in ever-changing colors.

And it's not just nature that makes these drives unforgettable. Some people enjoy human-made scenic views. For instance, American architectural wonders along Chicago's famed Lake Shore Drive, like the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), which once held the title of the world's tallest building.

According to the travel magazine, Florida has one of the best scenic roads for road trips. Making the list is U.S. 1, in the Florida Keys. The scenic journey from Key Largo to Key West unfolds along the Overseas Highway, connecting the islands. Along this route, travelers will encounter picturesque lighthouses, underwater coral reef parks, and the engineering of the Seven-Mile Bridge, ranked among the world's longest. Among the list's highlights were the docks at Islamorada, offering travelers an opportunity to hand-feed bait fish to tarpon, some exceeding six feet long. Another gem further down the route mentioned is Big Pine Key, home to the National Key Deer Refuge.

See who else made the cut for the best scenic road trips in the U.S. here.

There's still time to squeeze in one last getaway before school starts in Southwest Florida. It's amazing how fast summer has gone. Since flying out of town requires a lot more planning, let's focus on some amazing destinations you can drive to from SWFL. Today we'll focus on some picturesque small towns here in Florida you can visit, relax, and take pictures. After all, taking great selfies is part of the trip. So we'll talk of places that have some great backdrops for your photos.

A new study by the travel experts at the travel website North Carolina Travel Guides ranked the most picturesque small towns in America by comparing 500 small towns across the following categories: popularity for photography with the general public, popularity with photographers, and search trends. Here's the overall top 5.

Seaside, located on the Gulf of Mexico, is a picturesque small town with turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and a beautiful coastline. From quaint cobblestone streets to  pastel houses, the town has something to offer for everyone's liking. One of the most beautiful spots in the town is the historic Seaside Post Office.

This one is no secret. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine, FL, is a picturesque small town that served as the capital of Spanish Florida for more than 200 years. The town is packed with historic sights, such as the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, Aviles Street, Castillo de San Marcos, Llambias House, and the Bridge of Lions. In addition to that, there are a lot of fun things to do in the town such as going on a scenic cruise, doing a train tour, and visiting one of the town's unique museums, such as the Pirate and Treasure Museum. There's also a haunted tour if that's your style. 

Apalachicola, FL, is a picturesque fishing town with a maritime atmosphere. From pristine beaches to historic houses to beautiful viewpoints, the town has many gorgeous spots. Some interesting sights in the town are the Raney House Museum and the Apalachicola Maritime Museum. Lots of history in this place. 

Palm Beach, Florida, settled in 1872 and located on a barrier island, is a picturesque town that is home to grand mansions, historic landmarks, and the beautiful palm tree-lined Worth Avenue. It's also the closest on this list to Southwest Florida with a drive down Alligator Alley. The Gilded Age architecture of Palm Beach is incredible to see, and a great example of this is the Whitehall mansion. There’s a lot to do in Palm Beach including enjoying food at a chic waterfront restaurant, shopping at local boutique shops, playing golf with a view of the Atlantic Ocean, and attending the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival.

With its gorgeous beaches, Cape Canaveral, Florida, is one of the most picturesque small towns in America. The town is located on the Atlantic Coast and is known for the Kennedy Space Center. Its beauty and opportunities to learn about space make Cape Canaveral a perfect destination for a getaway. Time your trip right, and you can witness a rocket launch. 

The full list of 120 small towns from around the country can be found here.