Top Places to See When Driving From Amarillo, Texas to Lake City, Florida

Driving is one of the best ways to explore the United States. The country is vast and diverse, offering a plethora of attractions, natural wonders, and cultural experiences that are best explored at a slow pace. This is especially true for the South, where you will find some of the most beautiful and historically significant places in the country. If you're driving from Amarillo, TX, to Lake City, FL, you're in for a treat. This cross-country road trip will take you through some of the most spectacular landscapes and charming towns in the Deep South. Here are some of the top places you cannot miss on your road trip.

The Great Plains

As you leave Amarillo, TX, and head eastward, you will soon find yourself in the heart of the Great Plains, a vast and beautiful landscape that spans all the way from South Canada to Texas and New Mexico. This region is characterized by its rolling hills, endless fields, and big skies. The flatness of the plains combined with the size of the sky creates impressive sunsets and sunrises that are not to be missed. The Great Plains is also home to several geological formations, including the renowned Palo Duro Canyon.

Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex

As you make your way from Amarillo to Lake City, FL, you must stop in Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. The area is a thriving cultural hub, offering a blend of modern architecture, art, and food. Some of the attractions include the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, and the Dallas Museum of Art. The Metroplex is also home to some of the best bars, restaurants, and shops in Texas, making it a perfect place to take a break from the long drive.

Little Rock, Arkansas

One of the most exciting stops along the route is Little Rock, AR. The city is the capital of Arkansas and is located along the banks of the Arkansas River. Little Rock boasts excellent cuisine, fascinating history, and vibrant nightlife. One of the most famous attractions in the city is the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, which commemorates the desegregation of the school during the Civil Rights Movement. Other must-visit places include the William J Clinton Presidential Library and the Riverfront Park.

Memphis, Tennessee

As you move away from Little Rock towards Lake City, FL, make sure to stop by Memphis, TN, the birthplace of rock and roll, and the home of the Blues. Memphis is a musical city, and it is impossible to escape the rhythm that is felt everywhere. You can visit the iconic Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits. You can also visit Graceland, Elvis Presley's mansion, which is one of the most significant tourist attractions in the state. Other notable sites include the National Civil Rights Museum and the Beale Street Entertainment District.

The Gulf Coast

As you approach Lake City, FL, the landscape changes drastically, and you will begin to notice the distinct Florida scenery, with palm trees, white sandy beaches, and turquoise waters. The Gulf Coast is a natural wonder that you cannot miss. To make the most of your Gulf Coast experience, stop by Destin, FL, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and the Emerald Coast Science Center are two other must-visit attractions in Destin.

Conclusion

The drive from Amarillo, TX, to Lake City, FL, is a must-do for any avid roadtrippers. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and urban attractions that cannot be found anywhere else in the US. From the Great Plains to the Gulf Coast, this road trip is a journey of discovery, an opportunity to see some of the most iconic places in the Deep South. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road. You won't regret it.