Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canton, Georgia to Tampa, Florida

Driving from Canton, Georgia to Tampa, Florida can be a long and tedious journey. It takes roughly nine hours to complete the trip without traffic. However, there are many unexpected places to stop and explore along the way. This article will highlight five unique attractions that will make your journey more memorable.

Halfway Point: Hahira, GA

Before we dive into the five stops, it's essential to note that Hahira, GA, makes the perfect halfway point between Canton and Tampa. Hahira is a small town with a population of approximately 2,800. Here you can stretch your legs, fill your gas tank, grab a bite to eat, and explore the local shops. Antonio's Italian Kitchen is a great spot to stop for a slice of pizza or a calzone.

1. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jacksonville, FL

Located in Jacksonville, FL, Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many rescued big cats, including lions, tigers, leopards, and cougars. The sanctuary provides a natural sanctuary to predators that cannot be released back into the wild. Here you can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and learn about each animal's unique story. Visitors can also participate in a feeding tour and hand-feed some of the animals. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of bug spray.

Favorite Food: Urban Foodie Feed Store has some of the best sandwiches and sides in Jacksonville. Don't miss the BBQ Pork Grilled Cheese and collard greens.

2. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Merritt Island, FL

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-see attraction for space enthusiasts. The visitor complex offers a glimpse of NASA's space program history and has many interactive exhibits and displays of actual rockets, shuttles, and space vehicles. Visitors can take a guided tour and see launch pads, the assembly building, and the Saturn V rocket. Designated shuttles will take visitors from the Apollo/Saturn V Center to the launch pad and back.

Favorite Food: The Space Dots Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect treat while exploring the complex.

3. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, FL

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a unique natural attraction and home to the only city of mermaids. The park features a spring-fed water park, complete with slides and a lazy river. The Mermaid Theatre puts on a show several times a day in an underwater theater. The Show features live mermaids swimming with sea creatures while performing acts such as eating and drinking underwater. Visitors can also take kayak or paddleboard tour down the Weeki Wachee River.

Favorite Food: You can't go wrong with a classic burger and fries from The Tiki Bar and Grill.

4. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, Delray Beach, FL

The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach, FL is a serene and peaceful escape from the busy highways along the journey. The gardens have six different authentic Japanese gardens, including a bonsai collection, a traditional tea ceremony garden, and a dry rock garden. The museum has interactive exhibits highlighting Japanese culture and its history in the United States.

Favorite Food: The museum café, Cornell Café, serves up authentic and delicious Japanese cuisine such as sushi, ramen, and bento boxes.

5. Sponge Docks, Tarpon Springs, FL

Located in Tarpon Springs, FL, the Sponge Docks neighborhood is a unique Greek-American town with a rich history in sponge diving. The docks feature many different local shops selling Greek souvenirs, baked goods, and soaps. Visitors can take a guided sponge diving tour and learn about the town's rich history with sponge diving. The docks also have many delicious Greek restaurants to try.

Favorite Food: Hellas Bakery is a must-try spot for Greek food. Try the Gyro pita and a side of Spanakopita.

Conclusion

Driving from Canton, Georgia to Tampa, Florida can be a long journey, but taking the time to explore these unique stops can make the trip more enjoyable. From visiting big cats to seeing mermaids, exploring the Kennedy Space Center to relaxing in Japanese gardens, and learning about Greek sponge diving, there's something for everyone along the way. Don't be afraid to veer off the beaten path and explore new places on your next road trip.