Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Alpharetta, Georgia and Tampa, Florida
Driving from Alpharetta, Georgia, to Tampa, Florida, can be an exciting adventure. The journey is approximately 500 miles, and it takes around 8 hours to complete (depending on traffic). The scenic drive takes you through charming towns, forests, and coastal cities. The best way to break up the long drive is to stop at some of the unexpected places along the way. Here are five such places that you ought to visit when driving from Alpharetta to Tampa.
Halfway Point: Hahira, GA
At the halfway point of this journey, Hahira is a lovely small town that is worth visiting. The town is located in the heart of South Georgia and has a population of less than 3000 people. Hahira is known for its antique and specialty shops, where you can find unique souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Additionally, Hahira has a fantastic downtown area that features an array of restaurants, cafes, and historic buildings. You can also visit the Hahira Historical Society and Museum, which has a collection of artifacts reflecting the town's rich history.
1. Thomasville, GA
Thomasville is a picturesque town filled with antebellum architecture, beautiful parks, and an art scene that attracts many visitors. The town is located 20 miles north of Tallahassee, Florida, and is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The historic downtown features over 80 specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Thomasville's many parks and gardens provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and leisurely strolls. Don't forget to try out the town's signature food: sweet potato biscuits, a specialty that you will only find in Thomasville.
2. Wakulla Springs, FL
Wakulla Springs is one of Florida's most breathtaking natural landmarks. It is located around 19 miles south of Tallahassee, Florida. The centerpiece of Wakulla Springs State Park is the deep, crystal-clear Wakulla Springs. The park offers a range of activities like swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, and fishing. Visitors can also take a guided riverboat tour that offers a glimpse of the park's scenic views and wildlife. If you're feeling hungry, try out the fried catfish at Wakulla Springs Lodge. It is delicious and is a local specialty.
3. Cedar Key, FL
Cedar Key is a lovely coastal town located on the Gulf of Mexico and is about 60 miles southwest of Gainesville, Florida. The town has an eclectic mix of art galleries, antique shops, and seafood restaurants. Visitors can soak up the sun, go fishing, or take a boat tour of the islands and observe wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and seabirds. Don't forget to try out the renowned clam chowder at Tony’s Seafood Restaurant. It is delicious and is made fresh from local clams.
4. Tarpon Springs, FL
Tarpon Springs is a charming town located on the west coast of Florida and is about 20 miles northwest of Tampa. The town has significant Greek heritage, and visitors can explore the historic sponge docks, which date back to the early 1900s. Tarpon Springs is famous for the natural sponges harvested in the Gulf of Mexico, and you can purchase sponges at several shops in the town. The town also has a range of Greek restaurants where you can try out the local specialty, spanakopita, a savory spinach-filled pastry.
5. Brooksville, FL
Brooksville is a historic city located in central Florida, about 50 miles northeast of Tampa. The town is known for its distinctive antique shops, stunning victorian homes, and towering oaks. Visitors can explore the town's rich history by visiting the May-Stringer Heritage Museum, which has a collection of artifacts and exhibits from the town's past. The city has several eateries that serve homemade southern-style cooking. Try out the fried chicken at Country Kitchen. It's a specialty and is as tasty as it gets.
Conclusion
Driving from Alpharetta to Tampa can be a fantastic experience if you take some time to explore the journey's stops. From small towns to natural wonders, the drive along the way has something for everyone. These five unexpected places are just some of the hidden gems that you can discover during your drive. So, pack your bags and hit the road - an exciting adventure awaits you!