Smithsonian Magazine chose this Florida highway one of the most scenic in the US
A Florida highway has been given high praise.
In the May issue of Smithsonian Magazine there was a list of the most beautiful roads in the United States. Seven locations were put in the spotlight, including what is likely a very familiar one to many Floridians. And it's only a few hours from Southwest Florida.
It's called the Overseas Highway, or the Highway that goes to the Sea.
It is the southernmost highway (U.S. 1) in the continental United States stretching 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West. It features 42 bridges leapfrogging from key to key in a series of giant arches of concrete and steel over the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
More: USA TODAY readers picked Florida location as a 'Best Hiking Trail' in America. It's in SWFL
What makes the Overseas Highway scenic?
According to the Florida Keys and Key West website:
"Countless coral and limestone islets in the sprawling Keys chain look tiny and fragile against the sea and sky. Yet despite their small size, these islands support lively, picturesque communities."
Overseas Highway: Did you know?
In 2009, the Keys highway was designated as Florida's first and only All-American Road by the US Federal Highway Administration, among only 30 other roadways in the nation that have earned the prestigious title.
Consider making this stop on the Overseas Highway
The Smithsonian Magazine recommends "those craving a wildlife adventure may want to seek out the Turtle Hospital, located at Mile Marker 48.5 on the Overseas Highway. Since its founding in 1986, the hospital has helped nurse over 3,000 sea turtles back to health, and the public is welcomed daily for guided educational tours."
Smithsonian Magazines most beautiful roads in the U.S.
Alaska Highway, Alaska
Highway 101, California
Hana Highway, Hawaii
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Trail of the Ancients, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah
Mount Washington Road, New Hampsire
Overseas Highway, Florida
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Smithsonian Magazine picks Florida road one of the most scenic in US
