Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago to Miami

The drive from Chicago, Illinois to Miami, Florida is a long and exciting journey that spans over 1,200 miles. This route is one of the most popular in the United States, with travelers taking anywhere from 17 to 20 hours to complete the journey. To make this journey more interesting, we’ve compiled a list of five unexpected places to stop along the way.

Atlanta, Georgia (Halfway Point)

Atlanta, Georgia marks the halfway point between Chicago and Miami. As the capital of Georgia, Atlanta is a vibrant city with much to offer, from world-class museums to excellent restaurants. If you're traveling with your family, the theme parks offer some great entertainment. The city is also filled with history, and the best way to experience this is by visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which pays homage to Dr. King and his contributions in the civil rights movement.

Food Recommendation: No trip to Atlanta is complete without trying some delicious Southern BBQ. Head to Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q for its mouth-watering brisket, pulled pork, and smoked wings.

1. Lexington, Kentucky

If you're a horse lover, Lexington, Kentucky is a must-visit place on your journey. Known as the Horse Capital of the World, it is home to over 450 horse farms and stud farms that breed some of the most magnificent horses in the world. The Kentucky Horse Park offers a wealth of experience, including guided tours and even horse riding classes for beginners. For whiskey connoisseurs, Lexington is just an hour away from the famous Bourbon Trail, which takes you through several distilleries producing some of the world's best whiskey.

Food Recommendation: To get a taste of Kentucky's popular dish, order Hot Browns when in Lexington. Visit Ramsey's Diner for their famous version of this open-faced sandwich made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains lies Asheville, North Carolina. This charming town is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a hike through the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway or explore Chimney Rock State Park. Asheville is also famous for its art scene, with several studios and galleries showcasing the works of local artists.

Food Recommendation: Visit 12 Bones Smokehouse for their lip-smacking ribs or brisket. They offer several unique sauces like Green Tomato or Blueberry Chipotle which are worth trying out.

3. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, is a city of fabled charm and elegance that attracts millions of tourists every year. The city's well-preserved historic district and cobblestone streets make for some stunning photo opportunities. If you're interested in history, you're in luck because Savannah has plenty of it. Visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Forsyth Park, and the famous Wormsloe Plantation, which is one of the most significant and oldest plantation homes in the state.

Food Recommendation: Head to The Lady and Sons for their famous Southern-style buffet, which features Paula Deen's signature dishes like Fried Chicken, Collard Greens, Shrimp & Grits, and Pecan Pie.

4. St. Augustine, Florida

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States. The city boasts centuries of history and stunning architecture. Visitors can enjoy the city's cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. If you're looking for fun family activities, visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, which features over a dozen exhibits housing hundreds of different animals species.

Food Recommendation: Stop by The Floridian for their tasty fish tacos, made with local seafood.

Conclusion

Driving from Chicago to Miami is an excellent way to explore the South and gain an insight into the country's rich cultural heritage. A road trip is the perfect way to see the towns and cities that you might not have noticed otherwise. The five cities listed above are perfect examples of places that offer visitors a unique insight into the American South. Drivers on this route should give themselves ample time to detour and explore each of these cities, have tried out the local fare and made memories that will stay with them forever.