Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cayce, South Carolina and Fort Lauderdale, Florida

If you're looking for an exciting road trip that offers stunning scenery and interesting pit stops, look no further than the drive from Cayce, South Carolina to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The drive takes about 11 hours, with a halfway point in St. Johns, FL, and passing through some picturesque towns and cities. Here are five unexpected places to stop and explore during your journey.

1. Mystic, Georgia

Mystic, Georgia is a small town that may not pop up on your radar, but there are plenty of reasons you should make a pit stop here. For starters, it’s home to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, which boasts diverse wildlife, including alligators, deer, and birds. Additionally, the town has a charming downtown area with local boutiques and antique shops.

If you want a taste of the town’s history, pay a visit to the Mystic Museum of Art and History. Here you’ll find exhibits that highlight the town’s development in the 19th and 20th centuries, including displays on the Okefenokee Swamp loggers and turpentine production. When it comes to food, we recommend trying the barbecue at Wiley’s BBQ.

2. Valdosta, Georgia

Valdosta is a city in Southern Georgia that’s full of surprises. It has a bustling downtown area, which is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries. If you’re looking for something to do, check out the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, which features rotating exhibits of Southern art and boasts a gorgeous sculpture garden.

For something a little different, head to Wild Adventures Theme Park. It’s a theme park and zoo combo where you can ride roller coasters and check out exotic animals. As for food, don’t miss the Valdosta Sweet Potato Festival, held annually in November, where you can find everything from sweet potato pie to sweet potato fries.

3. Gainesville, Florida

Gainesville is known for being home to the University of Florida, but it has much more to offer. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural springs, including Devil’s Den Spring and Ginnie Springs. These spots are popular for swimming, kayaking, and cave diving.

If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, check out the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. With over 60 acres of gardens to explore, it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. As for food, there are plenty of local spots to choose from, but we recommend grabbing brunch at The Jones B-Side.

4. St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the United States, and it’s definitely worth a stop. The city’s colonial-era charm is still evident today, with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. For a glimpse of the city’s past, head to the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort that has turned into a national monument.

Another popular spot is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. The lighthouse was built in 1874 and has since become a beacon for history lovers. You can climb the 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view of the coast. When it comes to food, check out the Cuban sandwiches at The Conch House.

5. West Palm Beach, Florida

West Palm Beach is located just north of Fort Lauderdale, making it the perfect final stop on your road trip. The city has a vibrant downtown area, complete with art galleries, restaurants, and shops. One of our favorite spots is the Norton Museum of Art, which has a rotating collection of over 7,000 works of art.

If you want to get some fresh air, head to Mounts Botanical Garden, which has 14 acres of gardens to explore. Finally, when it comes to food, you can’t go wrong with a seafood dinner at The Crab House.

Conclusion

From picturesque towns to historic cities, the drive from Cayce to Fort Lauderdale offers plenty of exciting pit stops. Whether you’re in the mood for outdoor adventures or want to explore local history and culture, there’s a spot on this route that will meet your needs. So what are you waiting for? Pack up the car and hit the road for an unforgettable journey.