Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bryant, Arkansas to Cypress, Texas
Driving from Bryant, Arkansas, to Cypress, Texas, is a journey of approximately 380 miles that takes around 6 hours of non-stop driving. However, why would anyone want to rush through this beautiful stretch of countryside on their route? That is why we recommend taking a break and exploring some of the exciting stops available on your way. Here are five unexpected places to halt on the trip.
The Halfway Point: Longview, TX
Longview, TX, is the largest city on the route. And by the time you reach this city, you'll have traveled approximately halfway through your journey from Arkansas to Texas. Longview's revitalized downtown area is a destination of its own. Visitors can stop by for shopping, dining, and entertainment. You'll find a variety of different shops, boutiques, and stores here, as well as a theater for live performances.
1. The Tennessee Valley Winery
The Tennessee Valley Winery is an hour's drive from Longview, TX, and an excellent place to stop for a drink or two. It is the oldest operating winery in the state of Tennessee. The winery produces over 20 different varieties of wine, all of which are made entirely from Tennessee-grown grapes. The winery offers free tastings of its wines, a chance to tour the vineyards, and to enjoy the beautiful scenic views there.
Favorite food to try: Cheese Tray
2. Kate Freeman Clark Art Gallery
The Kate Freeman Clark Art Gallery is a unique attraction on your route. It is located less than an hour's drive from the Tennessee Valley Winery. Clark was a Mississippi-born artist in the 19th century, known for her incredible works of art. Her art gallery is a must-visit stop for art lovers. It showcases her paintings that depict both modern and historical scenes from Mississippi.
Favorite food to try: Breakfast Sandwich
3. The Louisiana State Arboretum
The Louisiana State Arboretum is a gorgeous state-run arboretum located inside the Chicot State Park. It is approximately two hours and forty-five minutes from the Kate Freeman Clark Art Gallery. The arboretum is home to over 500 different varieties of plants and animals. It is a perfect stop for nature lovers or family looking to get outside and stretch their legs.
Favorite food to try: Cajun Fried Shrimp
4. Buc-ee's in Madisonville
Buc-ee's is the largest convenience store chain in Texas, and they have several locations on your route. One of the most popular locations is in Madisonville, around an hour's drive from the Louisiana State Arboretum. The store provides a vast array of products to meet the needs of travelers, including snacks, drinks, or even a few clothing items. And don't forget to fill up your vehicle's fuel tank while you're there.
Favorite food to try: Beaver Nugget Snacks
5. The Tin Roof BBQ
The Tin Roof BBQ is a mouthwatering BBQ restaurant located in Atascocita, TX. It produces an authentic "low and slow" cooking method with hickory wood for slow cooking of meats. That makes the meat much more flavorful and tender. It is around a 45-minute drive from Buc-ee's. Moreover, Tin Roof BBQ recently got featured on Food Network's hit show "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives." The steak here is so delicious that you'll want to visit again.
Favorite food to try: Brisket Sandwich
Conclusion
The drive from Bryant, Arkansas, to Cypress, Texas, is a straightforward and somewhat stressful journey. But it doesn't have to be that way. Take the opportunity to stop at these unexpected places and immerse yourself in local culture. Experience new flavors, beautiful landscapes, and one-of-a-kind attractions. Travel is all about experiencing new things, so make the most of your journey.