Ah, U.S. Route 17, affectionately known as the Coastal Highway. It's not just a road; it's an adventure that stretches over 1,300 miles of scenic twists, historic towns, and the occasional questionable roadside diner. If highways had personalities, US 17 would be the charming but unpredictable friend who somehow convinces you to take a detour that adds two hours to your trip—but you love every minute of it.

Let’s buckle up and take a humorous, yet professional, journey down this iconic Southeastern thoroughfare.

A Quick Rundown of US 17

• Length: About 1,300 miles (or 2,100 kilometers if you’re feeling European).
• Route: From the beaches of Miami, Florida, to the picturesque hills of Winchester, Virginia.
• Vibe: Coastal beauty, historic charm, and just enough inland detours to keep you on your toes.

Major Cities and Pit Stops

Florida

• Punta Gorda: US 17 starts its journey here, in the part of Florida where the palm trees sway and retirees drive golf carts on actual roads.
• Greater Orlando: No Disney, but plenty of citrus groves to remind you why Florida is the Sunshine State.
• Jacksonville: A sprawling city where US 17 helps you escape before the next round of construction traffic hits.

Georgia

• Brunswick: Famous for its shrimp and grits (and some seriously photogenic marshes).
• Savannah: US 17 saunters past this southern belle of a city, complete with Spanish moss and ghost stories galore.

South Carolina

• Charleston: Cobblestone streets, historic charm, and more shrimp and grits because why not?
• Myrtle Beach: If Charleston is the refined older sibling, Myrtle Beach is the fun-loving cousin who drags you to karaoke night.

North Carolina

• Cape Fear: The name sounds ominous, but it’s mostly beaches and boat vibes.
• New Bern: Home of Pepsi and way too much history to fit in a single visit.

Virginia

• Hampton Roads: Think military bases, colonial history, and the occasional Navy ship making you feel small.
• Winchester: The northern endpoint, where US 17 ends but the Shenandoah Valley views begin.

The Personality of US 17

Scenic Splendor
One minute, you're cruising along the coast, windows down, the scent of saltwater in the air. The next, you’re driving past a swamp that looks like a scene out of a Southern Gothic novel. It's a highway of contrasts, and that’s part of its charm.

Historic Goldmine
This isn’t just a road; it’s a time machine. From Revolutionary War battlefields to Civil War relics, US 17 could double as a history teacher. Just be ready for the occasional 25-mph speed zone through small towns that have perfected the art of ticketing.

Traveler’s Tips

• Pack snacks: Because once you hit the scenic stretches, finding food is an adventure in itself.
• Watch for signs: US 17 loves to veer inland when you least expect it. Google Maps is your best friend.
• Take detours: Whether it’s a random shrimp shack or a historic plantation, trust your gut—and your GPS.

Why US 17 Matters

This highway isn’t just pavement and paint; it’s a vital artery for tourism, commerce, and locals trying to shave five minutes off their commute. Whether you're chasing sunsets, history, or just a scenic shortcut, US 17 delivers with humor, heart, and maybe a little road rage.

So next time you hit the Coastal Highway, remember: It’s not just a road trip; it’s a relationship. One full of detours, discoveries, and stories you’ll tell for years.

Safe travels—and don’t forget the sunscreen.