Roadtrip: Calera, Alabama to Pooler, Georgia

Are you planning a road trip from Calera to Pooler? With so much to explore along the way, it's no surprise that many travelers decide to hit the open road. Whether you're looking for a faster route or want to take a scenic drive, here are a few options for your journey.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking to shave off some time from your trip, the fastest route is to take I-65 South towards Montgomery, then take I-85 East to Columbus, then take I-185 South to I-16 East towards Savannah. This route is approximately 409 miles and takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes.

However, if you have a little extra time and don't mind taking a more scenic route, there are plenty of options for you.

The Southern Route

If you love the coast and want to take a more leisurely drive, try driving down the southern Alabama and Georgia coasts. Head south on Highway 31 towards Gulf Shores, then take Highway 98 East through Pensacola, Tallahassee and Panama City. After this, take GA-84 East to I-95 South to Exit 106. This route is approximately 513 miles and takes about 9 hours, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the beaches and small southern towns.

The Northern Route

If you're looking to take a drive through the mountains and valleys of northern Georgia, then head east on I-20 towards Atlanta. Then take I-285 South to I-85 North towards Greenville and continue on I-85 to Spartanburg. From there, take I-26 East towards Columbia and Charleston, then head onto I-95 North into Pooler. This route is approximately 520 miles and takes about 9 hours, providing you with the chance to see some of the beautiful natural scenery in Georgia.

Must-See Stops

Along the way, there are plenty of stops that are worth exploring. In Alabama, Gulf Shores offers miles of beautiful white beaches, and in Pensacola, the National Naval Aviation Museum is definitely worth a visit. In Georgia, the historic city of Savannah offers amazing restaurants, bars and shops, while St. Simons Island offers a chance to relax on the beach and soak up some sun. Along the northern route, Lake Lanier, Tallulah Gorge State Park and Chattahoochee National Forest all offer incredible views and hiking opportunities.

Road trips offer so much more than just reaching your final destination. With so many routes to choose from, you can pick which one is right for you. Take a few extra minutes to stop and explore some of the attractions along the way, and you'll find that the journey is just as important as the destination. So pack a bag, fill up the tank, and hit the road!