From Asheville to Fort Lauderdale: 5 Must-See Stops Along the Way
The drive from Asheville, North Carolina to Fort Lauderdale, Florida is filled with endless possibilities, from the majestic mountains of North Carolina to the bustling beaches of Florida. If you’re planning a road trip, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss anything, so we’ve put together a list of the top five places to visit on your journey. So, pack your bags, hit the road and let’s get started!
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Our first stop is one of the most incredible natural wonders this country has to offer. As you make your way out of Asheville, take a detour to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's a beautiful drive and you'll be able to see fall colors, stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and the history of the Cherokee tribe. Once inside the park, you can hike one of its many trails, where you’ll see picturesque waterfalls, stunning fall foliage, and even wildlife like elk, deer, and black bears.
2. Savannah, Georgia
As you continue on your journey, make sure to stop in Savannah, Georgia, a charming southern city. Its downtown area is full of beautiful architecture, charming squares, and lots of history. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets and admire the oak trees with Spanish moss, stop by the famous Mercer Williams House (made famous by the book and movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil), or take a riverboat tour.
3. St. Augustine, Florida
As you leave Georgia and cross the state line into Florida, make sure to stop in St. Augustine. Known as America’s oldest city, it has roots dating back to 1565. Here, you can stroll down St. George Street, filled with cute boutiques, restaurants, and historic buildings. Make sure to stop by Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish fort built in the 17th century, which offers incredible views of the city.
4. Cocoa Beach
As you make your way further south down the Florida coast, stop in Cocoa Beach, popular for surfing and known as the "Surf Capital of the East Coast". Even if surfing is not your cup of tea, the beach is still worth a visit. Take a walk along the pier or watch the surfers catch some waves. If you visit during the right season, you may even catch a rocket launch from the nearby Kennedy Space Center.
5. Palm Beach
Finally, as you make your way down to Fort Lauderdale, make sure to stop in Palm Beach. It's the perfect place to experience the luxurious and glamorous lifestyle of southern Florida. Enjoy a walk or bike ride on the palm-fringed streets, visit the Flagler Museum, or indulge in some shopping on Worth Avenue, where you can find high-end designer stores.
Conclusion
As you continue on your journey from Asheville to Fort Lauderdale, make sure to stop at these must-see places. From natural wonders and charming cities to stunning beaches and luxurious living, you will experience all the beauty and excitement the southeastern United States has to offer. The beauty of a road trip is that you never know what hidden gems you'll come across as you make your way down the open road, but these five stops are definitely worth penciling into your itinerary. Happy travels!