Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brentwood, TN to Highland, IN

Are you looking for a road trip that's full of unexpected surprises? Look no further than the drive from Brentwood, Tennessee to Highland, Indiana! This route takes you through scenic back roads and charming small towns. The entire drive is roughly 450 miles and takes around eight hours, but we promise it's worth it. Along the way, make sure to stop at these five unexpected places to have an adventure you'll never forget.

The Halfway Point: Seymour, IN

Before we dive into the five unexpected places to stop, we have to mention the halfway point for this drive: Seymour, IN. It's the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs, and refuel for the second half of your trip. Seymour is a small town that's big on charm. Visitors can explore the historic downtown, which is full of shops and eateries. It's also home to Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, a stunning nature preserve that's perfect for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. If you need a place to stay the night, Seymour has plenty of options, from chain hotels to charming bed and breakfasts.

1. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

If you're a fan of nature and adventure, then Mammoth Cave National Park is a must-see. The park is home to the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored caves. Visitors can take guided tours of the caves, which range from easy walks to more strenuous hikes. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even take a spelunking tour that will take you deep into the caves. After a day of exploring, head to the park's Lodge for dinner. The Lodge serves up classic Southern cuisine, like fried catfish and hushpuppies.

2. Corvette Museum, Bowling Green, KY

If you're a car enthusiast, then the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY, is a must-visit. The museum is home to over 80 Corvettes, from vintage classics to modern-day models. Visitors can take a guided tour of the assembly plant and see how Corvettes are made. After the tour, head to the museum's cafe for lunch. The menu features classic American fare, like burgers and hot dogs, and a special Corvette-themed menu for car fanatics.

3. Jungle Jim's International Market, Fairfield, OH

Jungle Jim's International Market is a shopping destination unlike any other. This massive grocery store is over 200,000 square feet and features food from all over the world. Visitors can browse aisles of exotic fruits, imported candies, and hard-to-find spices. There are also food stations throughout the store serving up dishes like tacos, sushi, and barbecue. Don't miss the Cheese Department, which is home to over 1,400 cheeses from around the world.

4. Easy Street Cafe, Bowling Green, OH

If you're looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, head to Easy Street Cafe in Bowling Green, OH. This cozy restaurant has been serving up delicious comfort food for over 25 years. The menu features classics like meatloaf and mac and cheese, as well as vegan and gluten-free options. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with live music on the weekends. Be sure to try the Uncle Denny's Famous Wings – they're a local favorite.

5. Indiana Dunes National Park, IN

Last but not least, make sure to stop at Indiana Dunes National Park. This stunning park is home to 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and over 15,000 acres of diverse ecosystems. Visitors can hike through forests, climb sand dunes, and swim in the lake. There are also ranger-led programs and events throughout the year. After a day of exploring, head to Bartlett's Gourmet Grill in nearby Michigan City for dinner. The menu is farm-to-table and features dishes like grilled salmon and roasted pork chops.

Conclusion

This drive from Brentwood, Tennessee to Highland, Indiana, is full of surprises and unexpected adventures. From spelunking in Mammoth Cave to shopping at Jungle Jim's, there's something for everyone on this road trip. Don't forget to stop at Seymour, IN, for a halfway break. And make sure to come hungry – each of these five unexpected places has delicious eats you won't want to miss. Embark on this road trip, and you'll have memories to last a lifetime.