AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Grand Rounds Scenic Byway

Minnesota
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
Bike Route on the Grand Rounds · Public Domain. Photo by Dennis Adams · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

The country s longest continuous system of public urban parkways, this has been the preeminent urban parkway system for more than a century. Lovely parks, trails, lakes and parkways surround the city of Minneapolis. Enjoy the Chain of Lakes, Lake Nokomis, Lake Hiawatha, Minnehaha Falls, and much more.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway
Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway
The Byway road opposite the University of Minnesota bridge is also used as a bike trail route.
Bike Route on the Grand Rounds
Public Domain. Photo by Dennis Adams · Photo credits
An aerial view taken from above Wirth Golf Course shows the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway surrounded by rich reds and golds.
Aerial View with Fall Foliage
Public Domain. Photo by Dennis Adams · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.