Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Ball Ground, Georgia to Petoskey, Michigan

Are you looking for an adventurous road trip that will take you through unexpected and off-beat places? Well, we have just the route for you! The drive from Ball Ground, Georgia to Petoskey, Michigan is an incredible journey that will take you through charming towns, picturesque scenery, and historic landmarks. The drive is approximately 900 miles long and takes around 14 hours. But, with so many interesting places to explore, you'll hardly notice the time fly by.

The Halfway Point: Tipp City, Ohio

Before we dive into the five unexpected places to stop on this route, let's talk about Tipp City, Ohio- the midway point of this trip. It's located approximately 450 miles from Ball Ground, Georgia and 450 miles from Petoskey, Michigan. This quaint town is the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs, and enjoy some local charm. Some of the must-visit places in Tipp City include the K.T.E. Pepper Packing Company, a historic pepper cannery, and the Tipp City Mum Festival, which usually takes place in late September.

Now, let's explore the five unexpected places to stop on this route:

1. Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1, New Orleans, Louisiana.

One of the most interesting stops on this route is the Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans, Louisiana. This cemetery is unlike any other you have ever visited, as its history is tightly woven with the history of the city itself. Some notable residents include Marie Laveau, the famous voodoo priestess, and Homer Plessy, who challenged racial segregation in the landmark case Plessy v. Ferguson. After you have paid your respects, make sure to try a Po'boy sandwich from the Parkway Bakery and Tavern.

2. The Blue Swallow Motel, Tucumcari, New Mexico.

The Blue Swallow Motel is a historic landmark from the heyday of American road trips. This roadside motel has been beautifully preserved and combines vintage charm with modern amenities. The highlight of the motel is its neon sign that has been delighting road-trippers for decades. Stop here for the night and enjoy a hearty breakfast at Del's Restaurant and Bakery.

3. The Flint Hills, Kansas.

One of the most stunning stops on this route is the Flint Hills in Kansas. This area has been called "the last great expanse of tallgrass prairie in North America." This unique landscape offers endless rolling hills and beautiful views. Take a break from driving and hike the Tallgrass National Preserve Trail, located just off the Scenic Overlook Road. End your day with a slice of pie at the Beethoven's #9 restaurant in nearby Paola.

4. The Leaning Tower of Groom, Texas.

The last thing you would expect to find in a small town in Texas is a replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. But that's exactly what you'll find in Groom, Texas. The tower is 157 feet tall and leans at an angle of 10 degrees, which is more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Although you can't climb to the top of the tower, it's worth the stop just to take a few quirky photographs. Take a bite of the famous Texas steak at the Big Texas Steak Ranch nearby.

5. Mackinac Island, Michigan.

The final destination on this route is the historic Mackinac Island in Michigan. This island is located in Lake Huron and is known for its Victorian architecture and horse-drawn carriages. Take a walk or bike ride around the island and visit Mackinac Island State Park, which is the second oldest state park in the country. Don't forget to grab a slice of Mackinac Island fudge before you leave.

Conclusion

The drive from Ball Ground, Georgia to Petoskey, Michigan is truly a journey of a lifetime. Make the trip even more memorable by taking a few unexpected stops along the way. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready to embark on an adventure that will take you from the southern charm of Georgia to the Victorian splendor of Mackinac Island. This is a road trip you won't soon forget.