The Top Places to See When Driving from Athens, Ohio to Tampa, Florida

Are you planning a road trip from Athens, Ohio to Tampa, Florida? You're in for a treat! The drive is a little over 900 miles and takes about 14 hours, but there are plenty of great places to stop along the way. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, or simply beautiful scenic spots, there's something for everyone. In this post, we'll go over the top places to see when driving from Athens, Ohio to Tampa, Florida.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see destination for anyone traveling through the area. Located in Tennessee and North Carolina, this vast park spans over 500,000 acres and is home to some of the highest peaks in the eastern United States. There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails, waterfall hikes, and scenic drives throughout the park. If you're lucky, you might even spot some of the park's famous black bears!

2. Biltmore Estate

Next on our list is the Biltmore Estate, a historic mansion located in Asheville, North Carolina. Built by George Vanderbilt in 1895, this impressive mansion is one of the most visited attractions in the state. The estate covers over 8,000 acres and features beautiful gardens, a winery, and an Antler Hill Village with shops and restaurants. Be sure to take a tour of the mansion to see the lavish interior and learn about its fascinating history.

3. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia is a charming city full of beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and delicious food. Walk along the cobblestone streets and soak in the rich history of this city, which served as a key port during the American Revolution and Civil War. Be sure to visit the famous Forsyth Park for some great photo opportunities and take a riverboat tour to learn more about the city's maritime history.

4. St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States, dating back to 1565. This beautiful coastal town is full of historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries. Visit the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century Spanish fortress, and explore the shops and restaurants on St. George Street. You can even take a ghost tour to learn about the city's haunted past!

5. Siesta Key Beach

Last but not least, head to Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota, Florida for some relaxation and sunshine. This beautiful beach consistently ranks as one of the best in the United States, thanks to its crystal clear waters and powdery white sand. Take a dip in the ocean or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. There are also plenty of great restaurants and shops in the area to explore.

Conclusion

From the stunning natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the charming historic towns of Savannah and St. Augustine, there are plenty of amazing places to see when driving from Athens, Ohio to Tampa, Florida. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or simply a chance to relax on the beach, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to make some great memories!