You don’t have to be an expert outdoorsman to experience naturally beautiful places in Alabama. There are so many Alabama byways that take you through the Heart of Dixie’s most breathtaking scenery and charming small towns. Interested in taking these best scenic drives in Alabama? Pack up the car and get ready for a road trip!

1. Lookout Mountain Parkway
alabamabyways.com
From historic towns to unmatched natural beauty, this parkway in the northeast corner of the state is one of the best scenic drives in Alabama. The drive will take you through three states as you soar from Lookout Mountain all the way to Chattanooga, Tennessee. This 93 mile drive was named one of America's most scenic drives by Reader's Digest magazine. For more information, check out the Lookout Mountain Parkway page on the Lookout Mountain website.
2. Alabama's Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway
alabamabyways.com
The Coastal Connection loop is located in the southern portion of the state. You'll see some of the most beautiful places in Alabama as you ride along this path. On one side, there will be thousands of acres of well-preserved wildlife refuge, and on the other, you'll see Alabama's beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. Check out the full route on the Alabama's Coastal Connection website.
3. Talladega Scenic Drive
alabamabyways.com
This drive leads up to the highest point in Alabama on Cheaha Mountain, so you know you're in for some impressive views. You can see all kinds of wildlife and make a pit stop in at the restaurants and shops around Cheaha State Park. Check out the route on the Alabama Scenic Byways page.

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4. The Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway
Flickr/Evangelio Gonzalez
This byway will take you through some of the most scenic places in Alabama. You'll wind through the lovely scenery and quaint communities of the Appalachian Mountains. It intersects with the Talladega Scenic Drive, so you can actually take both in one trip. Check out the Alabama Scenic Byways page for more information.
5. The Black Belt Nature and Heritage Trail
alabamabyways.com
Everything you love about Southern charm, art, food, and history can be found along this scenic and historic trail. You'll go right across the entire state and even drive through Selma, famous for its role in the civil rights movement. You can find out more information about the Black Belt Nature and Heritage Trail on the Alabama Scenic Byways website.
6. Tensaw Parkway
alabamabyways.com
On the Tensaw Parkway (State Highway 225/59 corridor), you will travel through North Baldwin County. You'll pass many sites full of Native American and European history. The many waterways provide endless opportunities for photographers and fishermen alike. You can see more on the Alabama Scenic Byways page
7. Black Warrior River Scenic Byway
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
This scenic route travels over 12 miles and three bridges along the Black Warrior River. You'll pass many historic towns and landmarks, and some of the most beautiful places in Alabama. You can find out more on the Alabama Scenic Byways website.

Do you have any other byways you’d nominate as one of the best scenic drives in Alabama? Share your experiences in the comments!

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More to Explore

Beautiful Places in Alabama

Lisa Sammons | July 03, 2021

What are some more of the best scenic drives in Alabama?

We've got plenty of gorgeous ones here! The Natchez Trace Parkway is 444 miles long, passes through three states (Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee), and will take you through some of the most scenic places in Alabama.

What are the best natural wonders in Alabama?

There are some really incredible natural wonders in Alabama. We are a big fan of Stephens Gap. It's one of the most popular caves in the southeast, and after just one visit, you'll surely see why.

Does Alabama have any waterfalls?

We've got so many you can take a whole road trip! You especially don't want to miss DeSoto Falls.

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Featured Addresses
Lookout Mountain Parkway, Lookout Mountain Pkwy, Fort Payne, AL, USA
Alabama's Coastal Connection, Orange Beach, AL, USA
Talladega Scenic Highway, Talladega Scenic Hwy, Alabama 36266, USA
Heflin, AL 36264, USA
Black Belt, AL, USA
Baldwin County, AL, USA
Black Warrior River, Alabama, USA