When you hear the phrase “All-American,” what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For most of us those words conjure up images of sports teams in general and, at this time of year, baseball teams in particular.
Peoria Sports Complex, spring training home of the Mariners and Padres – Photo Credit: Osamu Hoshino
What even dedicated fans of traveling The Scenic Route may not realize, however, is that this baseball-crazy country is also home to nearly three-dozen All-American Roads. While all 150 of the routes singled out for special recognition by the National Scenic Byways program have their own special appeal, the 31 All-American Roads are considered so unique they’re worthy of being a destination unto themselves.
For those of you who’d like to combine America’s favorite game with traveling some of the country’s best scenic byways, now’s the time to hitch up the trailer and head to Arizona or Florida. Because Major League Baseball’s spring training season is in full swing.
You’ll find a complete rundown of the various teams’ spring training schedules at SpringTrainingOnline.com. For an interesting diversion between games, here are some nearby All-American Roads that are most definitely worth the drive:
Dramatic views along the Red Rock Scenic Byway – Photo: Sedona Chamber of Commerce
ARIZONA
Red Rock Scenic Byway
The state of Arizona is blessed with an abundance of beautiful scenery, but few places stand out quite like the dramatic red rock formations that surround the quaint town of Sedona.
Route 66
The Mother Road runs more than 2,400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles. While there are other high points along the way, one of historic Route 66’s best preserved and most scenic stretches runs through northern Arizona.
FLORIDA
Florida Keys Scenic Highway
From its multi-hued blue waters to it’s laid-back lifestyle, this route through the Florida Keys is a drive that’s not to be missed. Even if you don’t travel all 100-odd miles of this incomparable roadway, even a brief detour here is a balm for the soul.
“People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring.”
-Rogers Hornsby
