Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brighton, Michigan to Kingsland, Georgia

Are you up for an adventure? A road trip from Brighton, Michigan to Kingsland, Georgia will take you roughly 14 hours through seven states. But instead of taking the direct route, why not make the journey feel shorter by exploring the unique places along the way? This article will introduce you to five unexpected places to stop on your drive, each with their own hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

The Halfway Point: Hillsville, VA

First, let's talk about the halfway point of this journey, Hillsville, Virginia. This small town is situated in the Appalachian Mountains and is known for its scenic beauty. You can take a drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains and admire the fall foliage or visit the New River Trail State Park for a hike. The town also has an interesting historical background that you can learn about at the Hillsville Courthouse Historic District, which was built in 1868 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

1. Cookeville, TN - Discover the Art Scene

Cookeville, Tennessee, might not be the first place you think of when it comes to art, but trust us, it's worth a stop. The city has a thriving arts community, and there are several art galleries and public art pieces that you can explore. The Cookeville Depot Museum is also worth visiting, as it gives a glimpse of the town's past. When it comes to food, you must try the local specialty, hot chicken. One great place to try it is at Craft Food and Beverage Company.

2. Augusta, GA - Admire the Gardens

Augusta, Georgia, is famous for its golf course and the Masters Tournament, but the city has more to offer than just golf. You can visit the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area and take a boat tour to admire the beautiful landscapes. If you're more of a garden person, you can't miss the Augusta's Botanical Gardens, where you can stroll through 17 acres of gardens and trails. When it comes to food, Augusta is known for its soul food, and you can't go wrong with a plate of fried chicken and mac and cheese at The Bee's Knees.

3. Tallahassee, FL - Learn About History

Tallahassee, Florida, is the state's capital, and it has many historical sites that you can visit. One of the most famous is the Florida State Capitol building, which was built in 1977 and is said to be the tallest capitol building in the country. You can also visit the Museum of Florida History to learn about the state's past. The city is also known for its seafood, so make sure to try the seafood gumbo at Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille.

4. Valdosta, GA - Take a Walk in the Park

Valdosta, Georgia, might not seem like a destination, but it has a beautiful park worth visiting. The Freedom Park Trail is a 5.5-mile paved trail that winds through the city's park system, which includes creeks, gardens, and playgrounds. The park also has picnic areas and a splash pad for kids. When it comes to food, you can't leave Valdosta without trying the famous fried green tomatoes at Steel Magnolias.

5. St. Augustine, FL - Visit the Oldest City

St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest city in the country, and it's worth a stop on your road trip. You can visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, which is a 17th-century fort made of coquina, a type of limestone. You can also wander through the historic district, which has plenty of shops, restaurants, and museums. When it comes to food, you can't leave St. Augustine without trying the Minorcan clam chowder at The Conch House.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this road trip isn't just about getting from A to B; it's about the journey. By taking detours to unexpected places, you can discover hidden gems, learn about history, and try some of the local cuisine. So, make sure to stop at Cookeville for the art scene, Augusta for the gardens, Tallahassee for the history, Valdosta for the park, and St. Augustine for the oldest city in the country. Bon voyage!