The National Scenic Byways Program emphasizes the conservation of scenic byway's intrinsic qualities in balance with tourism and other economic development activities. Scenic byways are special roads that offer travelers access to Missouri's beautiful scenery, cultural riches and natural areas. These roads may be rural, suburban or urban, but the common link is that they all provide an alternative to today's fast-paced lifestyle. Scenic byways can steer motorists to state and local parks or other public lands. Scenic byways can provide economic opportunities and conserve scenic, historic, cultural, natural, recreational and archaeological resources.
Scenic byways can also be highways that communities feel are important components of their identity.
Missouri is a unique state with a variety of natural scenery, recreational areas, parks, historic sites and communities. Roadways provide easy access to these areas and the scenic byways program is designed to promote their special qualities. One of the key benefits of the program is the added economic opportunities and increased tourism provided to communities along the designated route. A program promoted statewide through maps and other literature can expand the number of visitors to an area, which can generate economic growth and increase community recognition. Any agency, group or individual can nominate a route for scenic byway designation.