Great River Road once again named as America's Best Scenic Drive National Scenic Byway
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MADISON, Wis. (May 14, 2026)—Thanks to overwhelming support and votes from travelers and fans across the country, the Great River Road has officially been named the Best Scenic Drive in America in the 2026 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
It’s the second consecutive year that the Great River Road has taken the top honor in the category.
A panel of travel experts nominated 20 routes for the Best Scenic Drive distinction, including the Great River Road, as well as other highways and byways like the Natchez Trace Parkway (which starts in Natchez, Mississippi—one of the cities on the Great River Road), the Florida Keys Scenic Highway, the Road to Hana, and the Pacific Coast Highway.
Online voting ran in April and early May, and thanks to an incredible effort from fans, the Great River Road took the top spot.
See the top 10 winners here.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm and support we continue to see from both our loyal fans and the thousands of travelers who experience the Great River Road each year, whether they’re exploring a short stretch on a weekend drive or making the full journey,” said Susanne Thiede-Barnet, Managing Director of the Mississippi River Parkway Commission. “For anyone who hasn’t discovered the Great River Road yet, there’s never been a better time to visit. From breathtaking scenic overlooks and beautiful parks to our network of nearly 100 Interpretive Centers and the many vibrant river towns and cities along the Mississippi, there’s truly something unforgettable waiting around every bend.”
Summer is the perfect time to explore the scenic beauty of the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River through 10 states from Minnesota to Louisiana.
Need some trip inspiration? Check out these articles to learn more about where to go and what to see along the Great River Road: