Top Places to See When Driving From Bentonville, Arkansas to Mexico Beach, Florida
Are you craving a road trip that will take you through some of the most spectacular scenes in the United States? Look no further than the drive from Bentonville, Arkansas, to Mexico Beach, Florida. Travelers are rewarded with beautiful landscapes, delicious food, fascinating history, and incredible attractions along the way. Buckle up and let’s explore some of the best places to see on a road trip across the south-eastern USA.
The Journey Begins: Bentonville, Arkansas
Bentonville Arkansas is an ideal starting point for travelers interested in nature, history, and art. The picturesque Ozarks are within easy reach, and the Walmart Museum offers a glimpse into the world-famous retail giant’s humble beginnings. Bentonville is also home to Crystal Bridges Museum of Art, one of the most impressive art museums in the USA.
So here are the top places to see as you embark on a road trip from Bentonville, Arkansas, to Mexico Beach, Florida.
1. The Legendary Beale Street, Memphis Tennessee
Memphis is a hotbed of history, music, and Southern culinary delights, and Beale Street has got to be the city’s most iconic attractions. The street was the birthplace of blues in the early 1900s and has seen iconic Odeon venues come and go, from dives to soaring theaters. Today, Beale is a lively mix of blues clubs and BBQ joints. Be sure to try some Memphis-style ribs and sweet tea, both staples of Southern cuisine.
2. Birmingham, Alabama: A City Reborn
After 50 years of decline, Birmingham has managed to reimagine itself. Today the city is a thriving center of art, culture, and the region's best food. Vibrant neighborhoods, like the creative Avondale District and the stylish downtown Loft District, are bursting with innovative restaurants, trendy shops, and galleries. Also in Birmingham is the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, which honors the struggle for equality in America.
3. Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia: A Wilderness Adventure
If you like the great outdoors, you will love Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia's untamed wilderness. The park is a vast, protected wilderness area teeming with wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and myriad bird species. Visitors can rent boats or canoes to paddle between the cypress trees or stroll along boardwalks to marvel at the countless layers of vegetation.
4. Destin Beach, Florida: The Emerald Coast's Hidden Gem
While Destin Beach is not quite a hidden gem, it is undeniably a gem among gems! The Emerald Coast of Florida is well known for its turquoise-hued waters and pristine white sands, and Destin Beach is no exception. With over twenty public beach access points, the beach is perfect for swimming, beachcombing, beach sports, or just lounging in the sun. Offshore, Captain Leonard Destin Park offers fishing and scuba areas for visitors to explore.
5. Mexico Beach, Florida: The End of the Road
Welcome to the end of the road, Mexico Beach, Florida. This small town on the Gulf of Mexico is well worth the drive. Here visitors can experience what sea and sun really mean with a relaxing pace that captures the charm and serenity of Gulf Coast living. Stunningly clear waters and white sand beaches await, with fishing charters, dolphin cruises, paddle boarding, and countless other outdoor activities available.
Conclusion
From Bentonville, Arkansas, to Mexico Beach, Florida, you will find plenty of attractions, natural wonders, and cultural destinations worth exploring. Whether it's the stunning Ozarks, the legendary blues roots of Memphis, or the beautiful beaches of Mexico Beach, the South Eastern USA has plenty of charm, hospitality, and friendly locals awaiting the fellow travelers. It's a road trip you'll never forget.