The National Parkways of the United States, managed by the National Park Service, are a collection of scenic roadways designed to showcase the country’s natural beauty, cultural history, and recreational opportunities. These seven parkways—Blue Ridge, Natchez Trace, George Washington Memorial, John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial, Baltimore-Washington, Colonial, and Skyline Drive—span diverse regions, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Potomac River and the Wyoming Tetons. Each parkway offers a unique driving experience, blending stunning landscapes with access to historic sites, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. For example, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway is famed for its rolling vistas and fall foliage, while the 23-mile Colonial Parkway connects Virginia’s Historic Triangle of Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. These roads, often free of commercial traffic, provide a tranquil alternative to highways, inviting travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in America’s heritage and wilderness.
Traveling the National Parkways is a rewarding adventure for road trippers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with each route offering distinct attractions and practical considerations. The Natchez Trace Parkway, stretching 444 miles from Mississippi to Tennessee, follows a historic trade route with stops at Native American mounds and Civil War sites, ideal for cyclists due to its flat terrain. In contrast, the 27-mile John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway links Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, offering wildlife sightings and rugged mountain views. Most parkways are accessible year-round, though spring and fall are peak seasons for mild weather and vibrant scenery. Travelers should check nps.gov for road conditions, as some, like Skyline Drive, may close in winter. With minimal services along many routes, it’s wise to carry supplies, refuel in nearby towns, and plan accommodations in advance, especially for popular destinations like Asheville or Jackson. Whether seeking a leisurely drive or an active getaway, these parkways deliver unforgettable journeys through America’s heartland.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia & North Carolina)
The Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, is a haven for nature lovers and road trippers. Known for its sweeping views of the Appalachian Mountains, the parkway features highlights like Mabry Mill, a picturesque 1910 gristmill, and the Linn Cove Viaduct, an engineering marvel hugging Grandfather Mountain. Visitors can explore over 200 overlooks, hike trails like the strenuous but rewarding Craggy Pinnacle, or cycle along less-trafficked sections. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, while fall’s vibrant foliage draws crowds, making it one of the most photographed drives in the U.S.
Traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway requires some planning due to its length and seasonal conditions. The road is free to drive, but facilities like visitor centers (e.g., at Milepost 213 near Galax, VA) and campgrounds, such as Otter Creek or Julian Price, operate primarily from May to October. Asheville, NC, offers a vibrant base with farm-to-table dining and craft breweries, while smaller towns like Boone or Floyd provide cozy inns and local music festivals. Check nps.gov/blri for road closures, especially in winter, and bring layers for unpredictable mountain weather. Gas stations are scarce, so refuel in nearby towns and carry a map, as cell service can be spotty.
Highlights:
Stunning vistas at places like Mabry Mill and Peaks of Otter.
Hiking trails, including parts of the Appalachian Trail.
Vibrant fall foliage and spring wildflowers.
Key Stops:
Asheville, NC, for Biltmore Estate and local craft breweries.
Roanoke, VA, for cultural attractions and the Blue Ridge Music Center.
Travel Tips:
Best visited in spring or fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Stay at NPS campgrounds or nearby lodges like Peaks of Otter Lodge.
Check for seasonal road closures at nps.gov/blri.
2. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi, Alabama & Tennessee)
The Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile route from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, follows a historic path once traveled by Native Americans, traders, and boatmen. This serene drive offers a blend of history and nature, with stops like Emerald Mound, a 13th-century Native American ceremonial site, and the Meriwether Lewis Monument, marking the explorer’s mysterious death. Scenic highlights include the lush Cypress Swamp and the Double Arch Bridge near Nashville. The parkway’s low speed limit (50 mph) and ban on commercial traffic make it ideal for leisurely drives, cycling, or hiking sections of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail.
For travelers, the Natchez Trace is a year-round destination, though spring’s blooming wildflowers and fall’s golden hues are peak seasons. The NPS provides free campgrounds like Jeff Busby, but amenities are limited, so stock up on supplies in towns like Tupelo, MS, home to Elvis Presley’s birthplace, or Franklin, TN, for Civil War history and boutique shopping. The Parkway Visitor Center in Tupelo (Milepost 266) is a great starting point for maps and exhibits. Cyclists should note the flat terrain but watch for wildlife like deer or turkeys. Visit nps.gov/natr for event schedules, such as ranger-led history walks, and plan for spotty cell coverage in rural areas.
Highlights:
Historical sites like Emerald Mound and the Meriwether Lewis Monument.
Scenic stops at Cypress Swamp and Jackson Falls.
Biking and hiking on the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail.
Key Stops:
Tupelo, MS, for Elvis Presley’s birthplace and the Parkway Visitor Center.
Nashville, TN, for live music and Southern cuisine.
Travel Tips:
Ideal for history buffs and cyclists due to its flat terrain and low traffic.
Visit in spring for blooming dogwoods or fall for colorful foliage.
Explore nearby Civil War sites in Franklin, TN.
3. George Washington Memorial Parkway (Virginia & Washington, D.C.)
The George Washington Memorial Parkway, a 25-mile scenic drive along the Potomac River, connects Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate, to Great Falls Park, with easy access to Washington, D.C. This parkway blends urban proximity with natural beauty, offering views of the D.C. skyline and stops like Theodore Roosevelt Island, a tranquil wildlife sanctuary. History buffs can explore Fort Marcy, a Civil War site, or Arlington House, while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy kayaking at Great Falls or biking the Mount Vernon Trail. The parkway’s proximity to D.C. makes it perfect for combining with visits to the National Mall or Smithsonian museums.
Travelers should plan for heavier traffic during D.C.’s rush hours, especially on weekdays, but the parkway’s charm shines on weekends or early mornings. Old Town Alexandria, VA, is an ideal base with cobblestone streets, waterfront restaurants, and boutique hotels. The parkway is free, but entry to Mount Vernon requires tickets (book at mountvernon.org). Great Falls Park charges a small vehicle fee, payable via nps.gov/grfa. Spring cherry blossoms or fall foliage enhance the drive, and parking at key sites like Gravelly Point, popular for plane-watching near Reagan National Airport, fills quickly. Check for roadwork or event closures, such as the Marine Corps Marathon, before heading out.
Highlights:
Views of the D.C. skyline and Potomac River.
Access to historic sites like Mount Vernon and Arlington National Cemetery.
Trails at Great Falls Park for hiking and kayaking.
Key Stops:
Old Town Alexandria, VA, for colonial charm and waterfront dining.
D.C.’s National Mall for iconic monuments and museums.
Travel Tips:
Perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway from D.C.
Avoid rush hour traffic on weekdays.
Check nps.gov/gwmp for event schedules like the Marine Corps Marathon.
4. John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway (Wyoming)
The John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, a 27-mile corridor, serves as a stunning link between Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. This short but spectacular drive offers jaw-dropping views of the Teton Range, with Jackson Lake reflecting snow-capped peaks. Wildlife is a major draw—moose, elk, and even grizzly bears roam the area, especially near Willow Flats. Summer visitors can boat or fish on Jackson Lake, while winter transforms the parkway into a snowmobiling and cross-country skiing paradise, with access to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders just north.
Planning a trip here requires preparation due to the remote location and seasonal access. The parkway is best visited from June to September when roads are clear, though snow can linger into May. Jackson, WY, is the nearest hub, offering upscale lodges, Western steakhouses, and outfitters for rafting or guided wildlife tours. NPS campgrounds like Lizard Creek are first-come, first-served, so book hotels or cabins at Colter Bay Village early. Entry to Grand Teton ($35/vehicle) or Yellowstone ($35/vehicle) applies, or use an America the Beautiful Pass. Follow bear safety guidelines on nps.gov/grte, carry water, and expect limited cell service in the backcountry.
Highlights:
Dramatic views of the Teton Range and Jackson Lake.
Wildlife spotting, including moose, elk, and grizzly bears.
Access to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders and Grand Teton’s hiking trails.
Key Stops:
Jackson, WY, for outdoor gear shops and Western culture.
Colter Bay Village for lakefront activities and lodging.
Travel Tips:
Visit in summer for open roads or winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Book accommodations early, especially in peak season.
Monitor wildlife safety guidelines at nps.gov/yell.
5. Baltimore-Washington Parkway (Maryland)
The Baltimore-Washington Parkway, a 29-mile route, connects Baltimore, Maryland, to Washington, D.C., offering a mix of urban access and green escapes. Managed by the NPS, the parkway passes through wooded areas and wetlands, with stops like Greenbelt Park, a quiet spot for camping and hiking just minutes from D.C. Travelers can easily detour to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for seafood and maritime museums or explore D.C.’s iconic landmarks. The parkway also provides access to historic Fort McHenry, where the Star-Spangled Banner was inspired during the War of 1812.
This parkway is ideal for quick getaways, but commuters can cause weekday congestion, so aim for weekends or off-peak hours. Annapolis, MD, a charming detour, offers sailing and colonial history, while Greenbelt Park’s affordable campsites are a budget-friendly base. The parkway is free to drive, but nearby attractions like the National Aquarium in Baltimore require tickets. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, though summer festivals in both cities add vibrancy. Check nps.gov/bawa for road conditions, as maintenance can cause delays, and pack snacks for the drive, as services are limited along the route.
Highlights:
Proximity to cultural hubs like the Smithsonian museums and Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.
Scenic wooded areas and wetlands along the route.
Access to Fort McHenry, a key War of 1812 site.
Key Stops:
Annapolis, MD, for maritime history and crab feasts.
Greenbelt Park for camping and hiking near D.C.
Travel Tips:
Best for quick trips between two vibrant cities.
Check for roadwork updates at nps.gov/bawa.
Combine with a visit to nearby Patapsco Valley State Park.
6. Colonial Parkway (Virginia)
The Colonial Parkway, a 23-mile road in Virginia’s Historic Triangle, connects Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, offering a journey through America’s colonial past. The parkway’s tree-lined route along the James and York Rivers is free of commercial traffic, creating a peaceful drive with scenic pullouts. Key stops include Jamestown Settlement, where costumed interpreters recreate 17th-century life, and Yorktown Battlefield, site of the Revolutionary War’s decisive victory. Williamsburg’s living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg, immerses visitors in 18th-century America with taverns and artisan demonstrations.
Travelers can enjoy the Colonial Parkway year-round, though spring’s mild weather and fall’s historical reenactments are highlights. Williamsburg is the central hub, with family-friendly hotels, restaurants, and attractions like Busch Gardens for thrill-seekers. The parkway is free, but entry to Jamestown and Yorktown historic sites requires tickets (combo passes available at colonialwilliamsburg.org). Parking is ample, but arrive early at popular spots like the Yorktown waterfront. Check nps.gov/colo for ranger-led tours, and bring bug spray for summer visits near the rivers. The short length makes it perfect for a day trip or weekend escape.
Highlights:
Immersive history at Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Battlefield.
Scenic views along the James and York Rivers.
Quiet, car-free vibe with no commercial traffic.
Key Stops:
Williamsburg for Colonial Williamsburg’s living history museum.
Busch Gardens for family-friendly thrills.
Travel Tips:
Ideal for a weekend of history and relaxation.
Visit in spring or fall for pleasant weather and festivals.
Learn more at nps.gov/colo.
7. Skyline Drive (Virginia)
Skyline Drive, a 105-mile parkway through Shenandoah National Park, offers unparalleled views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. With 75 overlooks, travelers can marvel at rolling hills, spot wildlife like black bears or deer, and access 500 miles of trails, including the famed Appalachian Trail. Highlights include Hawksbill Summit, the park’s highest peak, and Big Meadows, a grassy expanse perfect for picnics or stargazing. Fall’s fiery foliage draws crowds, while spring’s wildflowers and waterfalls, like Dark Hollow Falls, add charm.
A trip along Skyline Drive requires a $30/vehicle park entry fee (or America the Beautiful Pass), and the road is best driven from April to November due to winter snow closures. Front Royal, VA, is the northern gateway, with dining and lodging, while Waynesboro offers southern access. NPS lodges like Big Meadows or Skyland provide rustic stays, but book early for peak seasons. Trails range from easy (Limberlost) to challenging (Old Rag), so pack sturdy shoes. Check nps.gov/shen for weather alerts, as fog can reduce visibility, and refuel before entering, as gas is only available at Big Meadows (Milepost 51).
Highlights:
75 overlooks with vistas of the Shenandoah Valley and Piedmont.
Access to 500 miles of hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail.
Wildlife like black bears, deer, and peregrine falcons.
Key Stops:
Front Royal, VA, for park entry and small-town charm.
Luray Caverns for underground wonders.
Travel Tips:
Best in fall for vibrant foliage or spring for wildflowers.
Stay at Big Meadows Lodge or Skyland Resort.
Check weather conditions at nps.gov/shen.