Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Brinson, Georgia and Columbia, Alabama

Driving from Brinson, Georgia to Columbia, Alabama might seem like a mundane task, but there are plenty of hidden gems along the way that make this trip worthwhile. From charming small towns to stunning natural attractions, there's something for everyone.

The journey from Brinson to Columbia covers a distance of approximately 95 miles and will take you around 2 hours to complete. However, with these unexpected stops, you may find yourself taking a little longer to arrive at your destination.

Halfway Point: Donalsonville, GA

Before we dive into the unexpected stops, it's worth mentioning the midway point of this journey: Donalsonville, GA. This small town is a perfect place to stop and refuel or take a break. Here, you can find restaurants, gas stations, and shops. But why not also stretch your legs and explore the hidden gems of Donalsonville?

1. Lake Seminole - This beautiful lake is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts, boaters, and nature lovers. The lake spans over 37,000 acres and is home to a wide range of wildlife. Take a stroll along the lakeshore, go fishing, or rent a boat and enjoy the water. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning sunsets over the lake. Favorite food to eat: Freshly caught fish from the lake.

2. Kolomoki Mounds State Park - History buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking adventure will all find something to love at Kolomoki Mounds State Park. This park is home to the oldest and largest Woodland Indian mounds in the Southeast, dating back 1,800 years. Visitors can explore the mounds, hike through the park's trails, fish in the lakes, or even go camping. Favorite food to eat: Packed lunch in the park.

3. Blakely, GA - This charming town is a must-see on this trip. Blakely's historic downtown district features beautiful old buildings that are now home to unique shops, antique stores, and restaurants. Visitors can also check out the famous "Courtroom War" mural which depicts a shootout that occurred in 1906 between former judge A. P. Barbree and his opponent, former solicitor-general R. G. Mitchell. Favorite food to eat: Southern comfort food at the local diner.

4. Providence Canyon State Park - Although it may not seem like it, Alabama has its very own "Grand Canyon," and its name is Providence Canyon. This natural wonder was formed by erosion caused by poor farming practices in the 1800s. Today, visitors can hike through the colorful canyon, which is sometimes referred to as "Georgia's Little Grand Canyon." Favorite food to eat: Picnic lunch in the park.

5. Eufaula, AL - This quaint town is the perfect ending to your unexpected stop tour. Eufaula is home to beautiful antebellum homes, historic downtown shops, and the picturesque Lake Eufaula. Visitors can take a stroll along the charming streets, grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants, or even explore the lake by boat. Favorite food to eat: Fried catfish at the local seafood restaurant.

In conclusion, this journey from Brinson, Georgia, to Columbia, Alabama, is not only a practical way to get from point A to point B, but it's also an opportunity to explore hidden gems along the way. From beautiful lakes to stunning canyons, charming towns, and historic sites, there's truly something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself with some free time on your hands, consider embarking on a road trip and taking these unexpected stops. You won't regret it.