Byways Great American Roads 2023 by Byways, Inc.

Featuring North America’s Leading Travel Destinations

Instant Connect Direct One-Click links to Advertisers

VISIT INDIANA’S TOP GROUP DESTINATION Step into a slower pace in the heart of Northern Indiana Amish Country and experience true Hoosier Hospitality at Das Dutchman Essenhaus, located in Middlebury, Indiana. Das Dutchman Essenhaus’ beautiful campus, located in the third largest Amish destination in the nation, features the world-famous Restaurant with family-style dining, Homestyle bakery, country shops, beautifully manicured walking paths, peaceful carriage rides, and more. Top off your Well Crafted group experience with a relaxing night’s stay at the Essenhaus Inn complete with luggage handling upon request, generously-sized guest rooms with stunning Amish-crafted furniture, in-room coffee, indoor pool, fitness center and a deluxe hot breakfast.

Experience all the sights, sounds and flavors of Fall #INElkhartCo Groups love the Fall, Food & Fun Tour in Amish Country where you tour Indiana’s largest apple orchard, see flour ground at Indiana’s oldest operating grist mill and dine in a famous retro diner. Include the popular guided Fall Treats & Color Backroads Tour along the Heritage Trail.

Learn more at

VisitElkhartCounty.com/groups or call 800.262.8161

#INELKHARTCO

ELKHART

GOSHEN

MIDDLEBURY

NAPPANEE

BRISTOL

WAKARUSA

SHIPSHEWANA

westvirginia traveller

WestVirginia

Byways Magazine

stephen.kirchner@gmail.com https://bywaysmagazine.com

Byways 3

Preview

By Stephen Kirchner, Editor & Publisher elcome to the annual Great American Roads issue of Byways.

Spanning over 2,500 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, the legendary Route 66 embodies the spirit of the open road. Nicknamed the “Mother Road” this iconic highway played a vital role in America”s westward expansion. Though decommissioned in 1985, Route 66 remains a top road trip destination, promising unforgettable scenery and nostalgia around every bend. From quirky roadside attractions to bustling burger joints, trace America’s automotive history on the Mother Road. Adventure awaits on the Pikes Peak Highway in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains near Colorado Springs. This thrilling 19mile route ascends nearly 8,000 feet to the summit of Pikes Peak, treating travelers to spectacular mountain vistas. As you climb through alpine forests and above the tree line, each turn reveals new breathtaking perspectives. Enjoy scenic overlooks and watch the landscape transition from lush greenery to rocky crags. With its high elevation and serpentine road, the Pikes Peak Highway promises a uniquely elevated road trip experience. Wind through the heart of the Colorado Rockies on the magnificent 236-mile San Juan Skyway loop. Towering 14,000-foot peaks create a dramatic backdrop as you cruise through the San Juan Mountains. Pass quaint historic mining towns frozen in the past, like the colorful Victorian buildings of Silverton. With steep climbs and hairpin turns, this Skyway loop dazzles with rugged alpine beauty at every glance. Byways 4

Discover the diverse landscapes and cultures of New Mexico along the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway. Traversing Highway 14 for 85 miles from Santa Fe to Albuquerque, this route introduces the rich history and natural wonders of the Southwest. Admire panoramic desert vistas, traverse colorful high desert terrain, and step back in time in preserved mining towns. From scenic desert to mountains, the Turquoise Trail enthralls with quintessential New Mexico scenery. Feel the rush of driving up the highest peak in the Northeast on the Mount Washington Auto Road in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. This thrilling 7.6-mile route winds to the 6,288-foot summit along sheer cliff edges, gaining 4,618 feet in elevation. Be prepared for extreme weather and dizzying dropoffs without guardrails as you climb above the tree line into the alpine zone. The exhilarating drive and breathtaking vistas from the top make Mount Washington a heart-pounding New England joyride. Bill Graves joins the crowds in Knoxville, Tennessee as Interstate 40 meets fiddle music and spring festivals. Attend hoedowns during live music celebrations on the “Music Highway” or catch the action at Knoxville’s late April parade and street fair. With banjos twanging and barbecue smoking, Knoxville draws big crowds and good times on this stretch of I-40. In What’s Happening, learn the compelling history of Lady Liberty at the new Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island in New York. This immersive museum provides pivotal context for understanding the impact and symbolism of this iconic monument. We hope you enjoy this issue of Byways.

Byways 6

Byways 7

Learn more at Byways 8

VisitElkhartCounty.com/groups or call 800.262.8161

#INELKHARTCO

ELKHART

GOSHEN

MIDDLEBURY

NAPPANEE

BRISTOL

WAKARUSA

SHIPSHEWANA

Volume 40, Issue No. 5 2023 On the Cover. Twists and turns of the Pikes Peak Highway near Colorado Springs. Photo courtesy Nathaniel Redmon on Unsplash. For more on the Pikes Peak Highway, turn to page 20. For more on Great American Highways, go to page 12.

Features Exploring the History of Route 66 ........................................................................................................ 12 The Pikes Peak Highway .................................................................................................................... 20 Scenic Wonders of the San Juan Skyway .......................................................................................... 28 New Mexico’s Turquoise Trail .............................................................................................................. 38 Mount Washington Auto Road Adventure............................................................................................ 46

Departments Byways Instant Connect ........................................................................................................................ 3 Byways Preview .................................................................................................................................... 4 Traveling the Highways & Byways with Bill Graves ............................................................................. 34 Advertiser/Sponsored Content Index .................................................................................................. 57

What’s Happening The Statue of Liberty Museum ............................................................................................................ 52

Coming in Future Issues Future issues of Byways will feature Dams & Bridges, Great American Cities, Mountains and Valleys, Ocean Views and more. . .

Up Next: Dams & Bridges The Belle of Cincinnati riverboat approaches the Big Four Bridge on the Ohio River in downtown Louisville, Kentucky.Photo courtesy William Alden and CC 2.0.

Byways 9

Byways 10

Byways 12

Byways 13

oute 66, also known as the “Mother Road” is one of the most famous highways in the United States. Spanning over 2,500 miles, it runs from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, and was one of the original U.S. highways.

The road was established in 1926 and was in use until 1985, when it was officially decommissioned. However, the historical and cultural significance of the road has made it a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Americana.

History Route 66 was one of the first highways in the United States to connect rural and urban areas, making it an important transportation corridor for the country’s growing population. The highway played a crucial role in the economic development of the American West, as it facilitated the movement of people and goods, and helped to spur the growth of small towns and businesses along the way. One of the most significant historical events Byways 14

associated with Route 66 is the Great Migration of the 1930s. During this period, thousands of African Americans from the South moved to the North and West in search of better economic opportunities and to escape the poverty and racial discrimination of the South. Route 66 was one of the major routes used by these migrants, and it became known as the “Negro

trip, inspiring songs, movies, and television shows. In the 1960s, Route 66 gained renewed popularity thanks to the television show “Route 66”, which followed the adventures of two young men as they traveled the highway in their Corvette. The show was a hit and helped to bring Route 66 back into the public consciousness. Despite its cultural significance, Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985, and many sections of the road were replaced by newer and more efficient highways. However, a movement to preserve the road as a historical and cultural resource emerged, and in 1989, Route 66 was designated as a National Scenic Byway.

Traveling Route 66 Today Today, Route 66 is a popular tourist destination, and many people still travel the road in search of a glimpse of the America of the past. Along the way, visitors can find a variety of roadside attractions, including vintage gas stations, diners, and motels. Some of the most famous landmarks along Route 66 include the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma, the Wigwam Motel in Rialto, California, and the Route 66 Drive-In Theatre in Carthage, Missouri. Motorist Green Book” after a guidebook of the same name that was published to help African American travelers find safe and welcoming places to stay along the way.

Starting your journey in Chicago, you’ll be able to explore the vibrant city before hitting the open road. The Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit for art lovers, while the Navy Pier offers plenty of entertainment options, including an amusement park, restaurants, and theaters.

During the Second World War, Route 66 played a vital role in the transportation of troops and supplies to the West Coast. Many military bases were established along the road, and it became an important route for the movement of military personnel and equipment. After the war, Route 66 experienced a decline in popularity as the rise of the automobile industry led to the construction of faster and more efficient highways. However, the road’s cultural significance remained strong, and it became a symbol of the American road Byways 15

Byways 16

Once you’re ready to start your journey, you can pick up Route 66 at the corner of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. The first stop on your journey should be in the charming town of Pontiac, Illinois. Here, you can visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum, which celebrates the history of the road and its impact on American culture. You’ll also be able to see the world’s largest Route 66 shield mural and a collection of vintage cars that were popular during the road’s heyday.

Further west, you’ll come across the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. This 630-foot-tall arch is the tallest monument in the United States and offers incredible views of the city and the Mississippi River. You can take a tram to the top of the arch or explore the museum at the base of the arch to learn about its construction and significance.

As you continue westward, you’ll come across the town of Springfield, Illinois, the capital of the state and the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln. You can visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, where you can learn about the life and legacy of the 16th president. The Old State Capitol building is also worth a visit, as it was the site of Lincoln’s famous “House Divided” speech in 1858. Byways 17

Next up on your journey is the state of Kansas, which is known for its vast wheat fields and small towns. In Baxter Springs, you can visit the Baxter Springs Heritage Center and Museum, which tells the story of the town’s history and its importance as a stop along Route 66. The town is also home to the Rainbow Bridge, a historic bridge that was built in 1923 and is still in use today. As you cross into Oklahoma, you’ll come to Tulsa, which was once known as the “Oil Capital of the World”. You can visit the Philbrook Museum of Art, which features a stunning collection of art from around the world, or take a stroll through the Tulsa Garden Center, which features beautiful gardens and a historic mansion. Continuing westward, you’ll come across the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. This public art installation features 10 Cadillacs that have been buried nose-first in the ground, and visitors are encouraged to spray paint them with graffiti. It’s a unique and quirky attraction that you won’t want to miss. As you enter New Mexico, you’ll come across the town of Santa Rosa, which is known for its beautiful Blue Hole. This natural swimming hole is fed by an Byways 18

underground spring and features crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The town is also home to the Route 66 Auto Museum, which showcases classic cars and memorabilia from the road’s golden era. Finally, your journey will come to an end in Santa Monica, California, where you can dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean and watch the sunset over the water. The Santa Monica Pier is a popular attraction that features an amusement park, restaurants, and an aquarium. Route 66 also has a few stretches that are considered as “Ghost Towns” which are towns that were once thriving but have been deserted, abandoned and left to decay. These towns are now considered as landmarks and are visited by tourists and history enthusiasts. Many of the small towns along Route 66 have also worked to preserve their historic downtown areas, and there are many opportunities to explore the rich history and culture of the road. Visitors can also experience the natural beauty of the American West, as the road passes through a variety of landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and forests.

Today, Route 66 is one of the most famous highways in the United States and has played a significant role in the country's history. https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/route-66important-links.htm

Byways 19

Byways 20

Byways 21

Byways 22

re you looking for a thrilling and unforgettable adventure? A journey on the Pikes Peak Highway might be just what you need. This scenic route is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, just west of Colorado Springs, and offers stunning views and a unique experience for travelers.

The Scenic Route The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile stretch of road that takes you from the base of the mountain to the summit of Pikes Peak, which stands at an impressive 14,115 feet above sea level. Along the way, you'll pass through several different ecozones, each with its own unique landscape and wildlife. You’ll see towering pine trees and breathtaking vistas that stretch for miles in every direction.

A Rich History But the Pikes Peak Highway isn’t just about the scenery. It’s also a journey through history. The highway was constructed in 1915 and was designed to provide access to the summit of Pikes Peak to anyone who wanted to make the journey. It was an engineering marvel of its time, and many people were amazed that such a road could be built in such a rugged and remote location.

The Journey As you travel up the Pikes Peak Highway, you’ll experience a range of emotions. At first, you might feel a sense of awe and wonder as you take in the stunning views around you. But as you climb higher and higher, you might start to feel a little nervous. After all, the road is narrow, and there are no guardrails to protect you from the steep drop-offs that lie just inches from your tires. But don’t worry – the journey is perfectly safe as long as you follow the rules of the road. There are speed limits and other safety measures in place to ensure that everyone who travels the Pikes Peak Highway can do so without incident.

The Summit When you finally reach the summit of Pikes Peak, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view that stretches for miles in every direction. You’ll be able to see the surrounding mountains, the city of Colorado Springs, and even the Great Plains far off in the distance. But the view isn’t the only thing that makes the summit of Pikes Peak so special. It’s also home to the world-famous Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which

Byways 23

Byways 24

takes visitors up to the summit from the nearby town of Manitou Springs. This historic railway has been in operation for over 125 years and is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Pikes Peak.

Planning Your Journey If you're interested in journeying on the Pikes Peak Highway, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, the road is only open during certain times of the year. It’s typically open from late May through late November, but the exact

dates can vary depending on weather conditions. Second, you’ll need to pay a fee to travel the highway. The fee varies depending on the time of year and the type of vehicle you're driving, but it’s generally around $15 per person for a car or motorcycle. Finally, it’s important to be prepared for the journey. The weather can change rapidly on the mountain, so be sure to bring warm clothing, even if it’s hot at the base. You should also bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the highway. Byways 25

Summary Journeying on the Pikes Peak Highway is an adventure that you’ll never forget. From the stunning scenery to the rich history to the thrilling journey itself, there’s something for everyone on this iconic stretch of road. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, why not plan a trip to the Pikes Peak region today? Byways 26

For more information on visiting the Pikes Peak region, contact: https://www.visitcos.com/groups-tours/

Byways 27

Byways 28

Byways 29

inding through the heart of the Colorado Rockies, the San Juan Skyway is a 236mile loop that takes travelers through some of the most rugged yet beautiful mountain scenery in the United States.

This iconic scenic drive offers stunning vistas, charming historic towns, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The highlight of the Skyway is undoubtedly the impressive San Juan Mountains themselves. These towering peaks, some reaching over 14,000 feet, create a dramatic backdrop for the entire drive. One particularly scenic segment is the aptly named Million Dollar Highway, a 25-mile stretch between Silverton and Ouray that hugs steep cliffs and offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding landscape.

Historic Mining Towns Beyond the mountains, the Skyway passes through historic mining towns that seem frozen in the past. Byways 30

In Silverton, visitors will feel as though they’ve stepped right into the Old West, with its colorful wooden storefronts and clapboard buildings. Ouray, nicknamed the “Switzerland of America”, boasts striking Victorian architecture and glimpses into the region’s rich mining history. And no trip would be complete without a stop in Telluride, the lively ski town turned summer destination. Another must-see attraction on the San Juan Skyway is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic steam train runs between Durango and Silverton and offers passengers a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty. As the train winds through the mountains, you’ll be able to see rugged canyons, dense forests, and rushing rivers up close. Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to hike, bike, and explore along the Skyway. Byways 31

Hiking trails range from accessible walks to challenging climbs up peaks and passes. Back country routes like the Ice Lakes Trail reward hikers with turquoise alpine lakes nestled below imposing mountain backdrops. Some of the most popular hikes include the Ice Lakes Trail near Silverton, which leads to stunning turquoise lakes at the base of a towering peak, and the Bridal Veil Falls Trail in Telluride, which takes you to the top of a 365-foot waterfall. Byways 32

In the winter months, the region is a world-class ski destination, with world-renowned resorts like Telluride and Durango Mountain Resort offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country.The region also offers some of Colorado’s best options for mountain biking, Jeeping, and other adventures to immerse yourself in the landscape.

Remote Location Yet despite the Skyway’s popularity, its remote location means you can still find secluded spots to

take in the beauty. Tucked away campgrounds, quiet meadows, and solitary trails allow you to feel far away from it all.

Travelers seeking stunning natural landscapes, Western heritage and a taste of mountain adventure will find this scenic Colorado loop has it all.

Visitors repeatedly come away refreshed and recharged after time spent “off the grid” along the San Juan Skyway.

For more information, visit:

With its mix of incredible scenery, quaint towns, historic sites and endless outdoor activities, the San Juan Skyway is truly one of America’s most spectacular drives.

https://www.colorado.com

Byways 33

Traveling the Highways & Byways with Bill Graves nterstate 40 begins in California and again in North Carolina. It goes through eight states as it crosses the country. More miles of it are in Tennessee than in any other state.

The section of it that runs through Nashville and Memphis – incubators of American country music – is often called the “Music Highway”. On the other side of Tennessee, I-40 passes by Knoxville. With a population of 170,000, I would

Byways 34

I-40 Knoxville, Tennessee

normally pass up Knoxville too. But there are big doings in Knoxville this weekend in April. And there are times when we who roam the back roads as solo travelers crave to throw ourselves into a place thick with people. And what draws crowds better then a big-city parade on a balmy, spring evening, or a street fair on a sunny Saturday? I’m ready for both. It’s Dogwood Arts Festival time here, time to celebrate spring when dogwoods, azaleas and other pretty flowers are in bloom. The city makes it simple for us tourists. It maps and marks 60 miles of roads through neighborhoods that are awash in spring colors. Buses, free to all comers, travel the routes during the festival.

Apparently the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade – I watch it on TV – has influenced other parade producers to take the wheels off their floats. Here they had six floats that floated between the tall buildings as they follow the parade down Gay Street. One was a giant flower blossom, another was a cartoon car. These helium-filled balloons were guided by lines held by as many 30 people walking beneath them. The next day, garlands of red, white and green balloons arched over Gay Street – now the site of the street fair. For six blocks, both sides of the street were lined with covered booths selling everything from necklaces made from bent spoons to Philadelphia cheese steak, with a side of deep-fried oysters. Between the booths, we ambled – hundreds of us enjoying the day. Moving in opposite directions, when we bumped into each other, somebody always said, “Excuse me”. I love the South. Most everybody was eating something or drinking it. And not just corn dogs, but linguini, London broil, shish kebobs, flannel cakes and ice cream on sticks, Byways 35

see. In one case, I didn’t get the full impact of a girl’s tattoo until she bent over to give her dog some popcorn. Another thing – cell phones. If I stopped and looked around, I always saw someone talking on their phone. Nothing wrong with keeping in touch, but at an attentiongrabbing event like this, how many things do you want on your mind anyway? This is also the weekend of the Rossini Festival, with two restored theaters on Gay Street as opera venues. A covered stage drew huge crowds all day to operatic performances – and this is the land of Elvis, Eddie Arnold, Minnie Pearl and Dolly Parton. I went to the opera that night – Pagliacci. This was a weekend of firsts for me and the opera was a good fit.

in cups and cones. We as a country have more than our share of overeaters. I think they are now organized like a union. And they sent a contingent to this event, recognizing it as a wonderful opportunity to retain membership eligibility. Much of what I saw was not new to me, but it was surprising to see it in such numbers – tattoos, for example. Those who had them wore a minimum of clothes, so their “art work” was out there for all to Byways 36

About the author: After seeing much of the world as a career naval officer, Bill Graves decided, after he retired, to take a closer look at the United States. He has been roaming the country for 20 years, much of it in a motorhome with his dog Rusty. He lives in Rancho Palos Verdes, California and is the author of On the Back Roads, Discovering Small Towns of America. He can be reached at Roadscribe@aol.com.

Byways 37

Byways 38

Byways 39

he Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway is a beautiful drive through the high desert landscapes and old mining towns of north central New Mexico.

Stretching for about 85 miles along Highway 14 from Santa Fe to Albuquerque, the Turquoise Trail offers visitors a perfect introduction to the rich history, diverse cultures, and natural wonders of the American Southwest. Here are some of the top reasons you’ll want to add this scenic drive to your New Mexico itinerary. The Turquoise Trail winds through a varied and vivid desert terrain. You’ll see red rock mesas, craggy mountain ranges, wide open valleys dotted with sagebrush and piñon pines, and views that seem to stretch forever across the big southwestern sky. The natural beauty along the Byway is simply stunning. Byways 40

Discover historic mining towns. The Turquoise Trail links together historic mining towns that date back to the early Spanish colonial era. Madrid is a funky and artsy village with an old coal mining history. Check out the quirky shops, galleries, and eateries housed in colorful row houses. Cerrillos is a former boomtown from the late 1800s silver rush. Old Western movie set buildings cry for photos.

Visit Native American art communities. Along the Turquoise Trail you’ll find villages known for Native American artistry. Stop in the village of Los Cerrillos and visit the shops of local Native American jewelers. You can watch traditional dances and ceremonies in the Pueblos of Cochiti and Santo Domingo. Purchase incredible pottery and other crafts directly from the artists. Go hiking and rock climbing. Outdoors lovers will find terrific hiking and rock climbing opportunities all along the Turquoise Trail. There are trailheads that lead into the Cibola National Forest or up the sides of the Sandia Mountains. Go hiking, mountain biking, or camping among ponderosa pines and rocky cliffs. Or challenge yourself scrambling up the granite boulders at places like the Canoncito Recreation Area. Byways 41

Byways 42

Byways 43

Explore Santa Fe’s museums and galleries. The With incredible scenery, fascinating history, diverse Turquoise Trail begins in Santa Fe, a top destination in communities, outdoor adventures, and vibrant urban itself. Before heading out on the scenic drive, spend attractions, the Turquoise Trail offers an unforgettable time exploring downtown Santa Fe’s adobe taste of New Mexico. Following this scenic Byway architecture, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. through the high desert is one of the best ways to Visit incredible museums like the Georgia O'Keeffe explore the distinctive culture and natural beauty of the Museum or the New Mexico Museum of Art for an American Southwest. introduction to Southwestern culture and creativity. For more on visiting New Mexico: https://www.newmexico.org Go skiing and snowboarding. During the winter months, the Sandia Peak stretch of the Turquoise Trail offers access to incredible snow sports. Take the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway up to over 10,000 feet elevation. Here you’ll find 30 ski runs and snowboarding terrain with stunning views over the Rio Grande Valley. After an active day on the mountain, head into Albuquerque for a delicious New Mexican meal. Sample local cuisine in Albuquerque. The Turquoise Trail ends in vibrant Albuquerque. New Mexico’s largest city has a buzzing dining scene. Sample red and green chile dishes, sopapillas, empanadas, and other New Mexican specialties. Albuquerque also has an exciting arts and culture scene, with live music venues, festivals, and galleries to check out. Byways 44

Byways 45

Byways 46

Byways 47

f you're a nature lover and an adventure seeker, then a visit to the Mount Washington Auto Road in New Hampshire is a must. This scenic road is one of the most picturesque drives in America, with panoramic views of the White Mountains and a chance to experience the thrill of driving up the highest peak in the Northeast.

Mount Washington stands at 6,288 feet tall, and the Mount Washington Auto Road is a 7.6-mile road that winds up to the summit. The road is open from midMay to October, weather permitting. During the winter months, the road is closed due to heavy snowfall.

History The Mount Washington Auto Road is a scenic drive located in New Hampshire Byways 48

that leads to the summit of Mount Washington. The road was first opened in 1861 as a toll road for horse-

drawn carriages and was later expanded to allow automobiles in 1899. Over the years, the road has undergone numerous renovations and improvements to make the drive safer and more accessible to visitors. Today, the road is a popular tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors each year who come to take in the stunning views of the surrounding White Mountains and experience the thrill of driving to the summit of Mount Washington.

Dangerous Curves The drive up to the summit is not for the faint of heart. The road is narrow and winding, with no guardrails, and steep drops off the side. But, for those who can handle the thrill, the views are truly breathtaking. You'll see the lush forests of the White Mountains, the vibrant colors of fall foliage, and the snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains. Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York, and Canada on a clear day.

Byways 49

The summit is home to the Mount Washington Observatory, where you can learn about the weather and climate on the mountain and even witness some of the highest winds ever recorded.

Guided Tours If you’re not confident in driving up the road yourself, there are guided tours available that will take you up the mountain in a comfortable vehicle. These tours are led by experienced drivers who know the road like the back of their hands and can provide Byways 50

you with interesting facts and history about the mountain and the surrounding area. In addition to the drive, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the area. You can hike one of the many trails in the White Mountains, go fishing or kayaking in the nearby rivers and lakes, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery. Motorcoaches, RVs or other large vehicles are not allowed on the road. However, group tours of 24 or more passengers are available with group tour rates.

Groups are broken into smaller size groups for transport in vans with professional drivers and guides. Weather conditions can vary greatly at the top of Mount Washington, and visitors are advised to check the official road status and weather updates before planning their visit. The road may be closed due to inclement weather, and visitors should always be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions.

Overall, a visit to the Mount Washington Auto Road is an experience that you won't soon forget. It's a chance to push your limits, embrace adventure, and witness some of the most beautiful scenery in America. So, pack your bags, put on your driving gloves, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. https://mt-washington.com

Byways 51

Byways 52

Byways 53

ising on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty Museum opened its doors to the public in 2019. This cultural attraction and museum provides critical enhancements to the visitor experience for one of America’s most iconic national monuments.

Designed by FXCollaborative Architects, the museum’s flowing, curved exterior references the Statue of Liberty’s classical drapery. Floor-toceiling glass walls allow natural light to filter in, opening up views to the lush island landscape outside. Inside, the contemplative setting primes visitors to learn about Lady Liberty’s history and influence. Immersive, state-of-the-art exhibits showcase the statue’s original torch, replica crown, and full-scale face model, while displays chronicle how the colossal copper sections were fabricated and transported from France. Set across three gallery spaces, the Engagement Gallery highlights how the statue became a symbol of hope and possibility for generations of Byways 54

immigrants. Touchscreen tables allow visitors to explore immigration stories, delving into personal journeys and family histories. The Inspiration Gallery honors the individuals who created and built the monument, bringing its conception and construction to life. An immersive theater shows historian John Stilgoe discussing the statue’s sculptural elements, from the intricacies of the robe to the symbolism of the broken shackles at her feet. The Star-Spangled Banner Gallery examines the statue as an icon, showcasing its extensive appearances in art, advertising, and pop culture.

While the museum’s interior space dazzles, arguably its most impressive feature is the sweeping panorama visible from the 14,000 square foot Immersion Room. Wrapping around the walls as a cinematic backdrop, floor-to-ceiling glass doors perfectly frame the Statue of Liberty outside. Visitors experience real-time views of Liberty Island’s surroundings and the monument itself from unique new perspectives. Through the glass, Lady Liberty appears at changing sizes and angles as the sun arcs across the sky.

Byways 55

For anyone planning a trip to New York City, visiting the Statue of Liberty is already a must. Now, the state-of-the-art Statue of Liberty Museum should be added as an essential companion destination. Not only does the museum provide handy amenities like a cafe and gift shop, but its galleries give deeper context around Lady Liberty’s history, engineering feats, and meaning. Timed-entry tickets are recommended to guarantee access to the museum and ferry service. Combination tickets bundle monuments and Ellis Island access too. The comprehensive experience satisfies and inspires, sending visitors away with a renewed appreciation for a global emblem of freedom. When you next visit the Statue of Liberty, make sure the museum is part of your itinerary. Statue of Liberty Museum

Byways 56

Byways is published bi-monthly by Byways, Inc. and distributed electronically throughout North America. Byways is emailed to more than 5,000 tour operators and Travel Trade. Subscriptions are complimentary. An iPad & iPhone version is available for consumers in the App Store. An Android browser version is available at www.issuu.com/byways. Byways’ distribution includes motorcoach companies, tour operators, selected travel agents, and other group

tour travel promoters. It is also available to consumers with an interest in North American travel. For advertising rates, editorial deadlines, or to place advertising insertions, contact: Byways Magazine at 540-233-1121. ©Copyright 2023 by Byways, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be duplicated in any form without express written permission of the publisher.

Editor & Publisher Stephen M. Kirchner

Advertising 540-233-1121

bywaysmagazine.com stephen.kirchner@gmail.com Byways on Facebook Byways on Twitter

Consumer Cellular .......................................................................................................................... 37 Dutchess Tourism, New York ......................................................................................................... 6-7 Elkhart County Tourism, Indiana .................................................................................................. 8 MaxSip Free Internet ...................................................................................................................... 45 Omaha Steaks ................................................................................................................................. 27 Springfield Tourism, Illinois ........................................................................................................... 11 Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association, New York ....................................................................... 5 Wheeling Tourism, West Virginia................................................................................................... 2

Byways 57