Heading down the highway, you’ve probably seen the signs, or maybe you noticed “scenic byway” on a brochure in a visitor center. But you may not understand the significance or realize all the thought, research, planning and promotion that goes into the designation. Scenic byways are the main streets of American road trips. For travelers, they are carefully curated roads featuring natural beauty, history, activities and amenities. To towns and states, scenic byways are sources of great pride. They help with preservation and conservation efforts, destination marketing and pumping visitor dollars into local economies.