Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Camp Springs, Maryland, to Lithonia, Georgia

Driving from Camp Springs, Maryland, to Lithonia, Georgia, is a long and sometimes tedious journey. The trip covers 634 miles and lasts approximately eleven hours without stopping along the way. Despite the long hours of driving, there are numerous fascinating places to visit worth making a stop on this journey. In this article, we explore five unexpected places where you can stretch your legs, relax, and enjoy new sights and sounds.

The Halfway Point: Thomasville, NC

Before we dive into the five unexpected places, we must mention the halfway point of this journey: Thomasville, NC. This charming city is the seat of Davidson County and offers a chance to recharge and rest halfway through the long drive. There are plenty of historical buildings to admire while strolling along the streets, galleries to explore, parks, and museums to visit, such as the aptly named "Everybody's Day" festival, a longstanding tradition held every year since 1908.

1. Roanoke Island, NC

While it's not directly on the journey's route, Roanoke Island is a delightful detour worth making for its captivating history and natural beauty. The Island is where the first English settlements took place in America, as well as the big mystery when settlers vanished into thin air. Visiting the site of the first settlements is educational and informative, thanks to the island's Center for History and Culture, which also organizes tours. The scenery at Roanoke Island is also breathtaking, making it an ideal place to take a break and take in nature. Foodies are sure to enjoy traditional Carolina dishes such as shrimp and grits, fried fish, and sweet potato fries.

2. Wilmington, NC

Located on North Carolina's southeastern coast, the port city of Wilmington offers a fascinating glimpse of America's history, from its antebellum architecture to its rich cultural heritage spanning the 18th and 19th century. Enthusiasts of maritime history will love the city's impressive collection of battleships and historical vessels, while history buffs will enjoy walking or driving through the city's cobblestone streets. The city is also known for its beach communities, which offer a variety of snacks and foods to try out, such as seafood, pizza, and southern-style barbecues.

3. Jekyll Island, GA

Jekyll Island in Glynn County, Georgia, makes an interesting stop for anyone interested in history and scenic landscapes. The Island was originally a hunting area for Georgia's elite during the late 18th century. Today, it is a world-class beach resort, renowned for its miles of pristine coastline, excellent hotels, and fascinating historical sites, like Jekyll Island's Historic District. The district is an exclusive gated community that houses grandiose mansions and features historic hotels like the Jekyll Island Club. Seafood is the go-to delicacy on the island, and visitors can indulge in fresh shrimp, crab, fish, or signature dishes like Gumbo and blackened Redfish.

4. Tallahassee, FL

Florida's beautiful capital is a curious mix of southern culture, politics, and history, making it an unexpected but worthwhile place to stop during a drive from Camp Springs to Lithonia. Visitors interested in history can visit the Capitol building and its surrounding museums and galleries or explore the city's stately homes, which reflect Florida's 19th century elegance. The city also boasts of its thriving university, natural parks, museums, and restaurants. Foodies will relish the prospect of sampling some of the city's local specialties, such as steaks, roasted oysters, fried catfish, and pan-fried grouper.

5. Madison, GA

Madison, Georgia, is a quaint, pre-Civil War southern town offering an authentic glimpse of life in the Antebellum South. Strolling through Madison's historic district, visitors will see e large square brick mansions flanking broad oak-lined streets, fine old churches, antique shops, museums, and art galleries. The town square is particularly delightful and is a prime location for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts. Madison's southern-style fare includes the legendary sweet tea, fried green tomatoes, hush puppies, Southern cornbread stuffed with bacon, and delicious pulled pork.

A drive from Camp Springs, Maryland, to Lithonia, Georgia, presents an opportunity for many unexpected but delightful stops along the way. With so many exciting places to visit, from Roanoke Island's historical sites to Madison's southern charm, this journey offers an enchanting combination of scenery, history, and culinary delights. Therefore, it's a trip anyone should take at least once in their lifetime.