Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carrollton, Texas to Fort Myers Beach, Florida

Driving from Carrollton, Texas, to Fort Myers Beach, Florida, is no small task. It’s over a thousand miles of travel, with plenty of different routes that can be taken. But for those who want to see some of the best sights that the United States has to offer, this route is hard to beat. If you take the I-10 route, you’ll pass through historic cities, gorgeous beaches, and landmarks that are sure to make your drive unforgettable. Here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Carrollton, Texas, to Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

The Halfway Point: Daphne, AL

Before we get to the top five stops on this journey, we need to talk about a very important place: Daphne, AL. This is the halfway point between Carrollton and Fort Myers Beach, which makes it an ideal spot to take a break from the long drive. Daphne is a beautiful city that’s located just outside of Mobile, AL. It’s known for its excellent shopping, diverse dining, and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. You’ll also find plenty of historic sites to visit, including the Daphne Museum and the Old Methodist Church.

1. Baton Rouge, LA

Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana, and it’s a great stop for anyone who’s interested in history and culture. The city has a long and rich history that’s reflected in its architecture, food, and attractions. One of the top places to visit is the USS Kidd, a World War II battleship that’s now used as a museum. You can also explore the Louisiana State Capitol building, which is the tallest capitol building in the country. And for those who love Cajun and Creole food, Baton Rouge is a must-visit destination. The city is famous for its gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish dishes.

Favorite food to eat: Crawfish Étouffée

2. Gulf Shores, AL

Gulf Shores is a small beach town that’s located about an hour from Daphne. It’s a popular vacation spot for families, thanks to its white sand beaches, clear waters, and abundance of outdoor activities. You can spend your day kayaking, fishing, or cycling along the Gulf State Park trails. And when you’re ready to relax, head to one of the local restaurants for some fresh seafood. Gulf Shores is known for its shrimp, crab cakes, and oyster dishes.

Favorite food to eat: Crab Cakes

3. Destin, FL

Destin is another popular beach town that’s located a few hours from Gulf Shores. It’s known for its emerald green waters and sugary white sand, which make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. But Destin isn’t just about sun and sand. There are plenty of attractions to visit, including the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, the Destin History and Fishing Museum, and the Henderson Beach State Park. And of course, you can’t leave Destin without trying some of the famous Gulf Coast seafood.

Favorite food to eat: Grilled Grouper Sandwich

4. St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone who’s interested in history. The city is filled with historic sites and landmarks, including the Castillo de San Marcos, the Lightner Museum, and the Flagler College campus. And for those who want to relax, there are plenty of beautiful beaches to enjoy. And of course, you can’t leave St. Augustine without sampling some of the local cuisine. The city is known for its seafood, but there are also plenty of Spanish-influenced dishes to try.

Favorite food to eat: Paella

5. Tarpon Springs, FL

Tarpon Springs is a small city that’s located on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s known for its sponge diving industry, which dates back to the early 1900s. You can learn all about this unique industry at the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks. And while you’re there, make sure to stop at one of the local Greek restaurants for some authentic cuisine. Tarpon Springs is famous for its Greek salads, gyros, and baklava.

Favorite food to eat: Spanakopita

Taking a road trip from Carrollton to Fort Myers Beach is a great way to see some of the best sights that the United States has to offer. And by visiting these five unexpected places, you’ll get to experience the diverse cultures and cuisines that make this part of the country so unique. So if you love adventure, history, and great food, pack your bags and hit the road!