Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bridgetown, Ohio to Birmingham, Alabama
If you're looking for a scenic road trip filled with interesting pit stops, then taking the route from Bridgetown, Ohio to Birmingham, Alabama is a great choice. The journey covers over 600 miles of beautiful scenery and offers a fantastic chance to explore some unique hidden gems along the way. Depending on how many stops you make, the journey will take approximately 10 hours. The following are five unexpected places to stop on your road trip, each offering something different and exciting.
Halfway Point: Franklin, KY
Before we dive into the list, it is worth noting that an excellent place to stop midway between Bridgetown and Birmingham is Franklin, Kentucky. It is a small town that exudes charm and hospitality, offering several attractions worth visiting. The town square, located in the middle of the town, is home to a unique building called the Simpson County Courthouse, which has a clock tower with a neon clock face. Another place worth checking out is the Simpson County Archives and Museum, which is located in the old Courthouse building. Be sure to stop for lunch at Kentucky's Best BBQ Pit, where you can enjoy a delicious pulled pork sandwich and their signature BBQ sauce.
1. Guntersville, Alabama
Guntersville, Alabama is home to one of the most beautiful state parks in Southeastern United States: the Lake Guntersville State Park. It has 36 miles of shoreline along the Tennessee River and offers an amazing view of Guntersville Lake. The park is an excellent spot for camping, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The city of Guntersville is also home to a quaint downtown area filled with unique shops and restaurants. Be sure to stop by Rock House Eatery, where you can have a delicious burger and fries.
2. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a city best known for its stunning natural attractions that offer spectacular views, including cascading waterfalls, caverns, and majestic mountains. One of the popular places to visit in Chattanooga is the Lookout Mountain. It offers a breathtaking view of the city and other parts of Tennessee and Georgia. Another unique place to visit is the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, where you can experience a nostalgic trip through the surrounding countryside aboard a vintage steam train. For a tasty lunch, stop by Champy's Fried Chicken, known for their delectable fried chicken.
3. Athens, Alabama
Athens, Alabama, is another hidden gem on the route. One of the top attractions here is the Athens Historic Preservation Society, which consists of several historic homes and cemeteries that date back to the 19th century. Another unique place to visit is the Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives, a place that honors the state's military veterans. Be sure to try the famous steak and cheese sub at Milo's Hamburgers, a local fast-food chain that has been serving this classic sandwich since 1946.
4. Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville, Kentucky, is the largest city in the state and has plenty to offer visitors. The city is best known as the home of the Kentucky Derby, one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. Apart from this famous event, Louisville is also home to several other attractions, including the Muhammad Ali Center, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, and the Kentucky Science Center. Be sure to stop by Porcini's Italian Restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
5. Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky, is a picturesque city located in the heart of the Bluegrass Region, known for its rolling hills, horse farms, and bourbon distilleries. Visiting the horse farms is a must-do activity while in Lexington, with Keeneland Racecourse and Kentucky Horse Park being the most popular among tourists. Visitors can also take a tour of the Mary Todd Lincoln House, the family home of the wife of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. For an authentic bourbon experience, visit the Bluegrass Tavern, which has over 300 varieties of bourbons in stock.
Conclusion
There you have it – five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Bridgetown, Ohio, to Birmingham, Alabama. Each location has its own charm and unique experiences to enjoy, from hiking and outdoor activities to cultural attractions and culinary delights. Whether it's your first time on the route or you are a seasoned road trip enthusiast, there is something for everyone on this journey. Be sure to pack your bags and hit the road for a fun and adventurous trip you won't soon forget.