Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Atlanta, Georgia to Rutland, Vermont

Have you ever taken a road trip where you thought the journey was more exciting than the destination itself? A drive from Atlanta, Georgia to Rutland, Vermont can be one such trip. Covering over 1,100 miles, this journey takes you through the scenic landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley. From savoring the famous peach cobbler in Georgia to admiring the fall foliage in Vermont, there's an adventure awaiting at every turn.

The Halfway Point: Ruther Glen, VA

Before we dive into the five unexpected stops, we cannot miss talking about the halfway point of this trip: Ruther Glen, VA. Located 650 miles from both Atlanta and Rutland, this is an ideal place to stretch your legs, grab some food, and fuel up for the rest of the journey. You can tick off some bucket list items like hiking in Lake Anna State Park or visiting the historic Kings Dominion amusement park. Ruther Glen is also home to the Virginia Sports Complex, where you can enjoy playing sports or simply watching a game.

1. Downtown Greenville, South Carolina

If you're a fan of charming small towns, Downtown Greenville should undoubtedly be on your radar. Located just off I-85, this place boasts a mix of southern hospitality, historic architecture, and plenty of activities to keep you engaged. You can take a stroll along the Reedy River and marvel at the elegant structures like the Liberty Bridge, the falls, or the Peace Center for performing arts. Greenville's food scene is reason enough to make a stop, with numerous restaurants to satisfy your cravings. Be sure to try their signature dish, the Po' Boy sandwich with grilled shrimp or fried oysters.

2. The Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina

When most people think of North Carolina, they immediately think of the Research Triangle or the Blue Ridge Mountains. But Asheville, the state's smallest city, is where you can find the majestic Biltmore Estate. Built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, this mansion is a French Renaissance-style chateau and is a National Historic Landmark. It boasts 250 rooms spread out across 178,926 sq. ft. and its lush gardens and grounds stretch across 8,000 acres. With options like horseback riding, wine tasting, or a simple stroll in the gardens, this place has something to offer for everyone. Be sure to try their signature ice cream, the Vanderbilt Vanilla Bean.

3. The American Shakespeare Center, Staunton, Virginia

Shakespeare isn't just for literary enthusiasts, and if you're journeying through Staunton, Virginia, visiting the American Shakespeare Center can be an exciting and enriching experience. With their year-round performances boasting live music, stunning costumes, and thrilling acting, they provide a unique and entertaining interpretation of Shakespeare's plays. The Blackfriars Playhouse is the world's only authentic re-creation of the first indoor playhouse in London. It's a must-do activity in Staunton, and their signature snack to munch on is the Shakespearean Popcorn with caramel and sea salt.

4. Manchester, Vermont

Vermont is synonymous with picturesque towns, pristine rivers, and stunning foliage during the fall months. Manchester is one such town. Located in southern Vermont, this place's laid-back charm is perfect for a relaxing getaway. You can explore designer outlet stores, artisan shops, and sample some of Vermont's famous cheeses. The Northshire Bookstore is a mecca for book lovers, with its impressive collection of books and a cozy café to relax in while flipping through the pages of a new novel. Don't leave Manchester without trying their famous apple cider donuts.

5. The Shelburne Museum, Shelburne, Vermont

The Shelburne Museum is a hidden gem in Vermont, located just outside of Burlington. It's not your usual museum, instead of focusing on fine art, it provides a showcase of Americana through eclectic collections spread across 39 buildings on 45 acres of land. The museum's collection of 150,000 works includes everything from folk art, quilts, circus memorabilia, and much more. The grounds feature beautiful gardens and a delicious café to grab lunch or a snack. For a quintessential Vermont experience, try their signature maple creemees (soft serve).

After reading about these unexpected places, it's time to pack the car and get ready for an adventure. Whether it's savoring the flavors of the South or exploring the charming towns of New England, this trip has something to offer for everyone. Take this journey and experience the rich history, breathtaking scenery, and unique culture of the East Coast. Bon voyage!