Best Road Trip Stops from Akron, Ohio to Muscle Shoals, Alabama
Whether you’re looking for new adventures or just some time on the road with friends or family, driving from Akron, Ohio to Muscle Shoals, Alabama is an exciting way to explore the heartland of America. The drive will take you straight south and offers plenty of opportunities to check out new places, try different regional foods, and take in new landscapes and scenery. From stunning national parks to mouth-watering local cuisine, each stop on this road trip is a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and excitement.
The journey from Akron, Ohio to Muscle Shoals, Alabama, takes approximately 10 hours and covers a distance of nearly 660 miles. With so much to see and discover along the way, you’ll find that the time flies by quickly. Here are the top places to visit when you drive from Akron, Ohio to Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Hoosier National Forest, Indiana
The first stop on your road trip should be the Hoosier National Forest in Indiana. The drive to Hoosier is a beautiful, scenic route that will take you through winding roads and rolling hillsides filled with bright green hardwood trees in the summer and magical snow-covered landscapes in the winter.
The park itself offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and swimming. The park also has several campgrounds and hiking trails that you can explore if you decide to spend a night or two.
The Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri
The next stop on your trip should be the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, an iconic landmark that stands 630 feet above the ground. You can reach the top of the arch via an elevator, which offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River and the city of St. Louis.
The Gateway Arch is part of the Gateway Arch National Park, which is also home to the Museum at the Gateway Arch, a museum that tells the story of the Western expansion and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park is located in central Arkansas and is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long drive. The park offers natural hot springs and a historic bathhouse, where visitors can take a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich water.
In addition to the hot springs, the park offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and mountain biking. The park’s scenic beauty is also a great backdrop for a picnic or family photos.
The Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, Tupelo Mississippi
The next stop on your trip should be the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum in Tupelo, Mississippi. This museum offers visitors a glimpse of Elvis’s early years, including the house where he was born, the church where he first sang gospel, and the hardware store where he bought his first guitar.
The museum also has a collection of artifacts from Elvis’s time in Tupelo, including his first childhood bicycle, his high school yearbook, and a few outfits he wore in his movies.
The Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Missouri
The final stop on your road trip should be the Rock Bridge Memorial State Park in Missouri. The park is named after a natural rock bridge that spans 60 feet and offers visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
The park also offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping opportunities, making it a great place to spend a night or two. Make sure to visit the Devil's Icebox, where you can explore Missouri's cave system, and see stalactites, and limestone formations.
Conclusion
Driving from Akron, Ohio to Muscle Shoals, Alabama is an unforgettable adventure that not only offers stunning scenery but also provides a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. From historic landmarks and national parks to quaint towns and delicious regional cuisine, each stop on this road trip offers something unique. Make sure to take the time to explore all the attractions along the way, and you’ll create lasting memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.