Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Atlanta, Georgia to West Lafayette, Indiana

Imagine embarking on a road trip from Atlanta, Georgia, to West Lafayette, Indiana, that will take you through seven states, numerous cities, and highways with breathtaking views. The journey from Atlanta to West Lafayette is approximately 620 miles and can take about 9 hours by car. Still, it can be a fascinating and thrilling experience, especially when you make a few unexpected stops and break the long journey into small, enjoyable portions. Here are five unexpected places you should consider visiting on your drive from Atlanta, Georgia, to West Lafayette, Indiana.

Bowling Green, KY - The Halfway Point

Bowling Green, KY, is situated almost halfway between Atlanta and West Lafayette, making it an ideal stopover for visitors who want to break the journey and stretch their legs. The city is known for housing the "Corvette Museum," where you can explore and learn about the history of the legendary car brand. Visitors can admire more than 80 different models of Corvettes on display, including those damaged during the disastrous sinkhole accident; a unique exhibit not found anywhere else in the country.

When you're done with the museum, head over to the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park, where you can drive a course around a racetrack. Be sure to stop by the "Lost River Cave and Valley" and explore the underground boat tours, scenic hiking trails, and butterfly habitat. To top it off, try the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which includes several bourbon distilleries in the Bowling Green area, like the "Corsair Distillery" and "MB Roland Distillery." Grab a bottle of your favorite bourbon or whiskey to continue your trip.

1. Stone Mountain Park - Atlanta, GA

Just outside Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park provides visitors with a chance to stretch their legs while enjoying beautiful Georgia scenery. The park features various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, boating as well as laser shows during the evening hours. The Stone Mountain Summit hike is a picturesque trek, guiding guests to the peak of the enormous granite mountain, rewarding them with breathtaking views of the surroundings. The park also boasts an extensive, open-air museum, including historic houses, farmyard animal encounters and workshops on traditional artisan crafts.

When visiting Stone mountain park, make sure you try boiled peanuts: one of the most iconic foods of Georgia, served in many snack bars around the park.

2. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

Located outside of Brownsville, Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world's longest cave system, featuring over 400 miles of surveyed passageways. Visitors can take tours of the cave, offered in a variety of ways, from hiking to boat tour experiences. In addition to the cave tours, visitors can check out several abandoned historic villages and the Green River, where fishing with a small fee is allowed. For visitors who would like to explore the great outdoors, there is a wide variety of hiking paths scattered within the park.

While in the Mammoth Cave area, try the Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich, a delicious sandwich with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, gratineed and broiled to perfection.

3. Indianapolis Museum of Art - Indianapolis, IN

The Indianapolis Museum of Art is an excellent location to indulge your cultural appetite after hours of driving. Located in Indiana's capital, the museum is one of the most extensive art museums in the country, featuring more than 50,000 pieces of art from ancient times to modern-day. Visitors can experience anything from European painting collections to Asian art, as well as various outdoor garden installations to explore.

While visiting, make sure to try Breaded Porked Tenderloin, which is Indiana's favorite sandwich and can be found at almost any restaurant in the state.

4. Lake Michigan - Chicago, IL

As you drive through Illinois' biggest city on the way north, stop by Lake Michigan and enjoy nature's beauty. Chicago's northernmost point borders Lake Michigan, the fifth-largest freshwater lake globally, offering breathtaking views of the serene water and picturesque boats bobbing in the harbor. Besides gazing at the water, visitors can grab a bite to eat at North Avenue Beach's beachside cafes and restaurants. There you can try one of the most iconic Chicago dishes - Chicago-style pizza with its famously crispy crust and delicious tomato sauce.

5. Purdue University - West Lafayette, IN

As you arrive at West Lafayette, be sure to check out Purdue University. The college's campus has grown to become one of the most significant contributors to Indiana's economy, and visitors can make use of the campus tours and other activities. Purdue University honors alumni Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, and Eugene Cernan, the last man on the moon. Visitors can also see the suspended art installations at the Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts.

While on campus, visitors should try the traditional Indiana dish, sugar cream pie, which is deliciously sweet and a must-try dessert when in Indiana.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to West Lafayette, Indiana, offers an opportunity to see some fantastic sites. This journey not only offers history and culture but also mouth-watering dishes and breathtaking scenery. Plan your next trip from Atlanta to West Lafayette, including stops like the Indianapolis Museum of Art, which will stimulate your art-loving side, and Bowling Green, KY, the perfect place to stretch your legs halfway through the trip. Finally, head to Purdue University to explore and try the traditional Sugar Cream Pie before completing the trip. Bon voyage!