Religious Freedom Byway | American Tour Association

THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

This byway, with several branches that reach toward the Potomac River, incorporates many of the nation s oldest churches, the site of the first Roman Catholic Mass held in English-speaking America, and Maryland s colonial capital, Historic St. Mary s City.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway

Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway

The view from Friendship Farm Park is one of the finest in Southern Maryland, and it provides a very similar view to what early settlers would have seen-- lush greens and meandering waters-- from the bluff overlooking the Tobacco River. — View from Friendship Farm Park
Public Domain. Photograph by Lardner/Klein Landscape Architects, P.C. · 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.