Road Trip from Brighton, Illinois to Homosassa Springs, Florida
Are you looking for an exciting road trip filled with museums, parks, and landmarks? Starting from Brighton, Illinois and ending at Homosassa Springs, Florida, this journey is perfect for adventurers looking to explore the hidden gems of the United States.
An interesting fact about this road trip is that it takes you through Route 66, a legendary highway that runs from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. This route is also known as the "Main Street of America" and has been immortalized in pop culture through literature, songs, and movies.
At the halfway point of Resaca, GA, visitors can detour to the Resaca Battlefield Historic Site, where they can learn about the Battle of Resaca, one of the Civil War's lesser-known conflicts.
This road trip spans over 1200 miles, and depending on your route and speed, it can take between 18 to 22 hours of driving time. However, with so many fantastic landmarks, museums, and parks on the way, you may want to take your time and break it into smaller chunks.
Here are the top five places to visit on this road trip and why:
- The Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri The Gateway Arch is a stunning monument honoring the westward expansion of the United States. Standing at 630 feet, visitors can ascend to the top for a breathtaking view of St. Louis. This stop is a must-visit to get a sense of the pioneering spirit of America's people.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a riverboat tour of the Mississippi River for stunning views of the Arch.
- Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee Graceland, the home of legendary musician Elvis Presley, is a museum that showcases memorabilia, accolades, and personal belongings of the King of Rock n' Roll. A visit to Graceland is a unique glimpse into the life of one of the most significant pop culture icons in history.
Point of interest recommendation: Visit Sun Studio, where Elvis recorded his earliest and biggest hits.
- The National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola, Florida The National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the largest museums dedicated to naval aviation history in the world. Visitors can explore the hangars, witness flight demonstrations, and learn about significant moments in naval aviation history. This stop is ideal for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the military.
Point of interest recommendation: Don't miss the Blue Angels Practice Air Shows if you're in Pensacola during the season.
- Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida The Kennedy Space Center is the launch site for every American human spaceflight since 1968. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, take a bus tour, and witness a rocket launch, if lucky. This stop is perfect for anyone interested in space exploration and science.
Point of interest recommendation: Book a lunch with an astronaut special dining event at the Apollo / Saturn V Center.
- The Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainesville, Florida The Florida Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove of fossils, flora, fauna, and prehistoric objects from the state's history. Visitors can witness butterfly, bird, and diorama exhibits, and a glimpse into Florida's rich biodiversity. This stop is perfect for both kids and adults who love nature, science, and history.
Point of interest recommendation: Visit the Butterfly Rainforest, where you can witness hundreds of free-flying butterflies from around the world.
In conclusion, this road trip from Brighton, Illinois to Homosassa Springs, Florida is an exciting journey through some of America's lesser-known landmarks, history, and culture. With a mix of museums, parks, and historical sites, it is perfect for curious and adventurous travelers. So pack your bags, get ready for an adventure, and hit the road!