Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Boynton Beach, Florida, to Wixom, Michigan

Traveling from Boynton Beach, Florida, to Wixom, Michigan, takes approximately 20 hours and covers 1,202 miles. The drive includes long stretches of highway with beautiful scenery and small-town charm along the way. However, rather than merely focusing on reaching the destination, why not break up the drive with interesting stops along the way? Here are five unexpected places to visit during the journey.

Halfway Point: Calhoun, GA

Before diving into unexpected places to visit on the drive from Boynton Beach, Florida, to Wixom, Michigan, it is essential to mention Calhoun, GA, the halfway point along the route. This small town provides an ideal stop for travelers to rest, recharge, and explore.

The company town of Mohawk Industries, Calhoun, has a rich history in carpet and flooring manufacturing and houses the FloorHouse, the company's oldest store. Travelers can shop for quality flooring and enjoy a tour of the manufacturing plant. To begin the second half of the road trip, fuel up at Captain D's and then head to any of the other destinations below.

1. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, KY

For history buffs looking to break up the long drive, a stop at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, KY, provides a fascinating peek into the past. The park preserves the Cumberland Gap, an important route through the Appalachian Mountains for Native Americans, pioneers, and settlers. The park boasts a rich history of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and pioneer heritage.

After exploring the museum and the Gap Cave, take a picnic break and enjoy the stunning view of the mountains. Make sure to try the local favorite, cornbread, a staple in Southern cuisine.

2. Kyle Railroad Depot and Museum, TX

Next on the list is the charming little town of Kyle, TX. A charming stop that provides a historical look at the railroad, the Kyle Railroad Depot, and Museum. The depot built-in 1892, currently serves as the museum's location. Visitors can explore the old-fashioned telegraph, the model train layouts, and hop aboard a restored caboose.

The town of Kyle has a vibrant and diverse food scene, with an abundance of local restaurants to choose from. Be sure to try out the local specialty, breakfast tacos, and brunch at Garcia's.

3. Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, MO

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, MO, is a hidden gem for history lovers that provides excellent insight into the Civil War battle of Wilson's Creek. The park has a museum featuring Civil War artifacts, guided battlefield tours, walking trails, and a 1,750-acre Civil War battlefield.

After a day of history, head over to the famous Springfield Cashew Chicken Restaurant for a local specialty dish; cashew chicken was invented in Springfield and has since become a staple of the town's cuisine.

4. Amana Colonies, IA

In the heart of Iowa, there is a small community known as the Amana Colonies, founded in 1855 by German settlers. The area was supposed to be a religious communal society, working together to build a better life for all.

Nowadays, the Amana Colonies offer visitors a glimpse into the past with historic sites, unique shops, artisans selling their wares, and museums. This area is a prime spot to try some of the local favorites; guests can sample wine and cheese, German sausage, or even pickle soup.

5. Lake Erie Islands, OH

Finally, no road trip is complete without a visit to the beach. The scenic Lake Erie Islands, OH, offer visitors a chance to experience the Great Lakes and soak up the sun. The area includes 3 main islands, Kelleys Island, Put-in-Bay, and Middle Bass Island.

Visitors can indulge in the local favorite eats of fried perch sandwiches and Lake Erie Walleye fish. The islands offer an excellent opportunity to take a break from driving, rent bikes, and explore the area.

Conclusion

Traveling from Boynton Beach, Florida, to Wixom, Michigan, can be a long and monotonous drive. However, by breaking up the journey with these five unexpected stops, travelers can experience a range of attractions and cuisines, making the trip far more than just a means of arriving at a destination. From history and railroad adventures to beaches and local cuisine, the drive is full of hidden gems that offer a chance to get off the beaten path. So pack the bags, gas up the car, and explore the wonders that the road between Boynton Beach, Florida, and Wixom, Michigan, has to offer.