The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Athens, Ohio to Saint Augustine, Florida

Are you planning an adventure-filled road trip from Athens, Ohio, to Saint Augustine, Florida? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve got you covered with a list of the top places to see on your itinerary. Take the scenic route down south and discover stunning landscapes, charming towns, and one-of-a-kind attractions. Buckle up, put on some tunes, and let’s hit the road!

Out of Ohio: Portsmouth Floodwall Murals

Before we dive into the destinations in Florida, let’s start with a fantastic stop right after leaving Athens. Portsmouth is a small town located a few miles from the Ohio River. The city is famous for its Floodwall Murals, an impressive collection of more than 50 murals painted on a floodwall downtown. Each mural tells a story about the town's history, culture, and way of life. Take a stroll around town and admire the art while learning about the city's past.

Kentucky: The Mammoth Cave National Park

Crossing the border into Kentucky, you'll encounter one of the most remarkable natural wonders: The Mammoth Cave National Park. The park features the world's most extensive cave system and offers a variety of tours that appeal to every adventure level. Take a guided tour through the cave, try your hand at the underground zipline, or hike one of the many trails in the park. The caves' unique ecosystem and formations will leave you in awe.

Tennessee: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Driving further south, you can't miss The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in the heart of Tennessee. The park is a paradise for hikers, wildlife lovers, and history buffs. With more than 800 miles of trails, it's easy to explore the park entirely on foot. Take a guided hike to a hidden waterfall, climb to one of the park's peaks for an incredible view, or stroll through one of the park's historic districts.

Georgia: Savannah’s Historic District

Next up is Savannah, Georgia, a charming town known for its historic district. The district features 22 public squares bordered by historic homes and buildings, some dating back to the 18th century. Take a stroll around town, take in the colonial architecture, and immerse yourself in the city's rich history. While you're there, make sure to visit the Bonaventure Cemetery, an eerily beautiful graveyard that dates back to the 18th century and is the final resting place of some of the town's most famous residents.

Florida: The Kennedy Space Center

Last but not least, we've reached Saint Augustine, Florida, but before you enjoy the beach and catch some sun, take a detour and visit the Kennedy Space Center. Located on Merritt Island, the center is the most popular attraction on Florida's Space Coast. Tour the rocket garden, discover historic spacecraft, witness the launch pad, and meet a genuine NASA astronaut. The space program has been an essential part of the United States, and the center will leave you feeling inspired and in awe of human potential.

Conclusion

There you have it! A Top Places to See When Driving from Athens, Ohio to Saint Augustine, Florida. With stunning landscapes, historic sites, and world-class attractions, this road trip has something for every traveler. We hope this list will inspire you to create an unforgettable adventure and make memories to last a lifetime! Safe travels!