Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, Georgia to Lafayette, Louisiana
If you are looking for an exciting adventure and want to explore the South, a drive down from Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, Georgia, to Lafayette, Louisiana, will be the perfect choice. The journey takes approximately 12 hours, covering almost 750 miles, and it is full of mesmerizing views. While many travelers concentrate on the bigger cities on their journey through the South, some hidden gems can be easily overlooked. Here are five unexpected places to stop on this road trip that are worth experiencing.
Halfway Point: Repton, AL
Repton, AL, is undoubtedly a hidden treasure that sits right on the halfway point of your trip. This small town is nestled in Conecuh County and is well-known for its extensive history of lumber and extensive farmlands. Repton is home to various outdoor recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, walking, and hiking. The town has several unique shops and local eateries that offer homemade cuisine and hospitality unlike any other. One can spend the day exploring the quiet streets of Repton or drive a few miles east and explore the nearby Conecuh National Forest.
Place 1: Gamble Plantation Historic State Park, FL
Gamble Plantation Historic State Park is situated 35 miles south of Tampa, Florida, and approximately 550 miles south of Athens-Clarke County. The Gamble Plantation is the only surviving plantation house in South Florida and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the state’s rich history. Visitors can enjoy a house tour, walk the nature trails or explore the various outbuildings on the plantation. The house tour is a great opportunity to learn about the history of the plantation and the occupants of the house. The park also has picnic areas and a playground for families to enjoy. Be sure to try the park’s famous key lime pie when visiting.
Place 2: USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, AL
The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is located 235 miles west of Gamble Plantation Historic State Park, and approximately 265 east of Repton, Alabama. The park is home to the USS Alabama battleship, which served during World War II, among other exhibits. Visitors can tour the ship and see firsthand how the sailors lived and worked in confined spaces for weeks at a time. The park honors veterans of all branches of service and offers an excellent opportunity to learn about America’s military history. For a true Southern experience, visitors should try the park’s famous pulled pork sandwich.
Place 3: Poverty Point World Heritage Site, LA
Poverty Point World Heritage Site is located in northeastern Louisiana, 580 miles west of the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Here, visitors can relive the experience of ancient Native American civilizations from around 1600 BCE. The cultural heritage site is home to six earthwork mounds that offer a glimpse into an unsophisticated yet highly advanced civilization’s way of life. Visitors can also take guided tours by park rangers or explore the on-site museum offering educational displays and artifacts. Try the park's famous smoked sausages and boudin while relishing in the site's natural beauty.
Place 4: Driskill Mountain, LA
Driskill Mountain is the highest natural peak in Louisiana and is located approximately 65 miles south of Poverty Point. The mountain peak stands at 535 feet and offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding wilderness, pine forests and rolling hills. Hikers of all levels and ages can choose the right trails for themselves that lead all the way up to the peak. Once visitors reach the peak, they can bask in the beautiful scenery and capture the picture-perfect moment at the summit marker. Don't forget to try the crawfish étouffée when visiting.
Place 5: Avery Island, LA
Avery Island is located approximately 125 miles west of Driskill Mountain and is home to the Tabasco sauce company. Visitors can tour the company's factory and witness the process of creating the world-famous hot sauce. The island has an excellent botanical garden, home to various native plants and animals, including alligators and birds. The garden is an ideal spot to explore and have a picnic with friends or family. Visitors should grab a bottle of the Tabasco hot sauce and enjoy a famous crawfish boil while on the island.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this road trip is a fantastic opportunity to experience everything that the South has to offer. From exploring ancient Native American civilizations to touring an active military battleship, every stop on this road trip has something unique to offer. The trip is packed with beautiful scenery, hidden treasures, and delectable cuisine. Experience the Southern hospitality at its finest by embarking on this journey and exploring the unexpected.