The Best Places to Visit Between Atlanta and Cape Coral

A road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Cape Coral, Florida is a perfect way to explore the beauty of the southern United States. This route stretches over 800 miles and promises a plethora of charming towns, stunning nature and historic landmarks. In this post, we'll highlight the best places to visit along the way, so you can make the most of your journey through the Sunshine State.

From the farms and mountains of Georgia to the sandy beaches of Florida, this road trip boasts many must-visit stops that will keep you entertained throughout your journey. So, without further ado, let's explore the best places to see when driving from Atlanta, Georgia to Cape Coral, Florida.

Charming Towns of Georgia

Athens

As you set off from Atlanta, the first stop you should make is at Athens, where you can explore the cultural highlights of Georgia. Athens is known for its thriving music scene and has been home to some of the greatest rock bands in history, including REM and the B-52's. You can discover all this and more at the Georgia Museum of Art, where you'll find over 9,000 artworks from American and European artists.

Madison

Just an hour south of Athens, you'll come across the charming town of Madison. Here, you can go back in time by walking along the historic streets filled with antebellum homes and Victorian architecture. Don't forget to visit Madison's 1939 courthouse and the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, which is the former post office from 1895.

Milledgeville

If you're a literature enthusiast, you must stop at Milledgeville on your drive to Cape Coral. This town is home to the legacy of one of America's greatest writers, Flannery O'Connor. Tour the Andalusia Farm, which was O'Connor's family home, and see the working farm where she wrote some of her greatest novels and short stories.

Natural Wonders in Florida

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

As you enter Florida, you'll be greeted by the warm and inviting waters of Ichetucknee Springs State Park. This 2,669-acre park is known for its crystal-clear springs, which offer a refreshing swim even on the hottest of days. You can also go tubing down the Ichetucknee River, which flows for six miles through shady pine forests and grassy meadows.

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long drive. This island is known for its pristine beaches, shelling opportunities, and laid-back vibes. Head to the Bowman's Beach to witness stunning sunsets, or take a nature walk at the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which is one of the country's largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystems.

Dry Tortugas National Park

If you're looking for an adventure, make sure to plan a visit to the Dry Tortugas National Park, which is located 70 miles west of Key West. The park is home to the Fort Jefferson, which is one of the largest brick structures in the Western Hemisphere, and was once used as a military prison during the Civil War. You can also snorkel around the park's crystal-clear waters, where you might spot shipwrecks, coral reefs, and diverse marine life.

Historic Sites of Florida

St. Augustine

St. Augustine is considered America's oldest city and is a must-visit stop on your drive to Cape Coral. You can explore the town's cobblestone streets and visit the Castillo de San Marcos, which is a military fortress that was built in 1672. Take a stroll down St. George Street and immerse yourself in the town's vibrant history, culture, and charming boutiques.

Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center needs no introduction for space enthusiasts. This center is the hub of space exploration and has launched every manned mission to the moon. You can take a tour of the facility, meet real-life astronauts, and witness the incredible machines that helped humankind learn about the universe we live in.

Conclusion

The journey from Atlanta, Georgia to Cape Coral, Florida, is filled with many wonderful places to visit. From the charming towns in Georgia to the natural wonders in Florida, and historic sites in between, this drive is an experience not to be missed. We hope you enjoy your journey and find these recommended stops helpful in making your road trip memorable.