Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bristol, Tennessee to Orlando, Florida

If you're looking for a fun and exciting road trip, consider driving from Bristol, Tennessee to Orlando, Florida. This drive takes approximately eleven hours, but is full of beautiful scenery and exciting places to stop along the way. The route passes through six states, each offering unique attractions and experiences. Here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Bristol, Tennessee to Orlando, Florida.

Halfway Point: Yemassee, SC

Yemassee, South Carolina is the halfway point between Bristol, Tennessee and Orlando, Florida. While it may not be as well-known as some of the other places on this list, Yemassee is a charming town full of Southern culture and history. Visitors can check out the Frampton Plantation House, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The house was built in the 1860s and served as a hospital for Union soldiers during the Civil War. Now, visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the house and the history of the area. For those who love the great outdoors, Yemassee is also home to the nearby Old Sheldon Church Ruins. The ruins date back to the 1700s and are surrounded by beautiful gardens, making for a serene and picturesque spot to stop.

Favorite Food: Seafood lovers won't want to miss out on the fresh shrimp and oysters available at the local restaurants in Yemassee.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC

Stop one on this road trip should be the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is located in both Tennessee and North Carolina. This park is home to stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and wildlife. Visitors can take a drive on the scenic Newfound Gap Road or hike to the top of Clingmans Dome, which is the highest point in the park. The fall foliage is especially breathtaking, making this an ideal stop during the autumn months.

Favorite Food: No trip to the Smoky Mountains is complete without trying some homemade apple butter or other apple treats from one of the nearby orchards.

2. Hot Springs, AR

Hot Springs, Arkansas is a unique stop on this road trip because it's home to natural hot springs that were once thought to have healing powers. Visitors can still take a dip in the hot springs today at the Hot Springs National Park. It's also worth checking out the Bathhouse Row Historic District, which is a collection of eight bathhouses built in the early 1900s. Visitors can take a tour of the district to learn more about the history and architecture of the bathhouses.

Favorite Food: While in Hot Springs, be sure to indulge in some delicious southern-style barbecue.

3. Savannah, GA

Savannah, Georgia is well-known for its beautiful historic district and Southern charm. Visitors can take a stroll through the picturesque Forsyth Park or take a carriage ride through the oak-lined streets. The city is also home to a number of museums, including the Savannah History Museum and the Telfair Museums, which has a collection of American and European art. Don't miss out on the opportunity to dine at one of Savannah's many restaurants, which serve up fresh seafood and other local favorites.

Favorite Food: For a unique dining experience, check out The Grey, which is housed in a restored Greyhound bus station and serves up delicious southern-inspired cuisine.

4. St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs. Visitors can take a tour of the Castillo de San Marcos, which is a 17th-century fortress built by the Spanish. There are also a number of museums in the area, including the Lightner Museum, which features antique and collectible items, and the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum. Of course, no trip to St. Augustine would be complete without a visit to the beautiful St. Augustine Beach.

Favorite Food: For a taste of the ocean, check out the local seafood restaurants, which serve up fresh catches of the day.

5. Kennedy Space Center, FL

The final stop on this road trip is the Kennedy Space Center, which is located on Florida's Space Coast. Visitors can explore the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit or take a tour of the launch pads. It's also possible to meet a real astronaut or watch a rocket launch with the right timing.

Favorite Food: While at the Kennedy Space Center, be sure to try some freeze-dried astronaut ice cream for a unique snack.

In Conclusion

This eleven-hour drive from Bristol, Tennessee to Orlando, Florida is full of surprises and excitement. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or space enthusiast, there's something for everyone along this route. So pack up the car and hit the road to discover these five unexpected places and all the other surprises that await you on this unforgettable road trip.