Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Atlanta, Georgia and Spartanburg, South Carolina

Those who enjoy long drives with beautiful scenery would be excited to know that the journey between Atlanta, Georgia and Spartanburg, South Carolina is one of the most picturesque routes in the southeast region of the United States. The road trip covers 146 miles along the Interstate 85 highway, where drivers will encounter scenic views of rolling hills, mature trees, and a combination of mountain and grassland landscapes. This non-stop drive can take roughly 2 hours, depending on the traffic on the highway. However, if you want to add some more fun to the trip, why not make a few stops along the way? Here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Atlanta, Georgia, to Spartanburg, South Carolina, that will make your journey so much more interesting.

Lavonia, GA - The Halfway Point

As the midpoint between Atlanta, Georgia, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, Lavonia, Georgia, is the perfect place to stop for a break and refreshments. The city has a small-town feel, and you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the town's charming features. You can park your car and take a walk around the city, visiting its various establishments. Lavonia has some beautiful murals, and you can take photos with your friends and family to make the fun trip more memorable!

Must-Try Food in Lavonia: Say ‘hi’ to the folks in Lavonia Cheese Shop and get yourself a unique southern pecan cheese ball - a local favorite.

1. The Ty Cobb Museum - Royston, GA

Most sports enthusiasts know who Ty Cobb, one of the most accomplished baseball players of all time. Royston, Georgia, is the birthplace of Ty Cobb, and the Ty Cobb Museum is located there. The museum has a collection of exhibits and artifacts from his life and baseball career. You will see vintage baseball gear, including old bats and gloves, as well as his team's shirts. You can also see his trophy collection, personal photographs, and other memorabilia that represent his life as a baseball legend.

Must-Try Food near Ty Cobb Museum: After visiting Ty Cobb Museum, eat some southern-fried chicken at The Rock Restaurant to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.

2. Toccoa Falls - Toccoa, GA

The Toccoa Falls is located on Toccoa Falls College's campus in Toccoa, Georgia, and is a registered natural landmark. The 186-foot waterfall is one of the most stunning examples of nature's beauty in the area. Visitors can take a walk around the campus to view the falls in its full glory. There's a small museum just beside the falls that contains interesting information about the waterfall and its history.

Must-Try Food near Toccoa Falls: After admiring Toccoa Falls, drop by Martin's - a local diner, where all dishes are freshly prepared and locally sourced.

3. Cowpens National Battlefield - Chesnee, SC

History buffs can visit the Cowpens National Battlefield just outside of Chesnee, South Carolina. The battlefields are from the Revolutionary War victory of January 17, 1781. The victory marked a turning point in the Revolutionary War's southern campaign, and you can visit the site to learn more about it. The national park also shows a short film portraying the battle.

Must-Try Food near the Cowpens National Battlefield: While in the area, check out the Peachey's Baking Company and enjoy their sumptuous apple dumplings during the fall, or try their scrumptious cookies.

4. The Beacon - Spartanburg, SC

The Beacon is an old-fashioned roadside restaurant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, that has been around since the 1940s. The restaurant has an old-school charm and has been featured on the TV food show “Man vs Food.” Although they serve various dishes, their burgers and chili dogs have become famous in the area, and it’s a must-visit for anyone driving through the city.

Must-Try Food at The Beacon: Don’t leave The Beacon without having their famous burger, French fries, and sweet tea.

Conclusion

Driving along the route from Atlanta, Georgia, to Spartanburg, South Carolina, can be both fun and exciting with the many places to go along the way. From visiting Ty Cobb’s birthplace to seeing the stunning Toccoa Falls, there's something for everyone. Visitors can also learn more about the country's history while admiring the scenery at Cowpens National Battlefield. To round off a perfect road trip and treat your taste buds, you can stop at Lavonia, Georgia, to enjoy southern pecan cheeseball or The Beacon in Spartanburg, South Carolina, for a sumptuous burger and sweet tea.

With so many places of interest in between, you'll find it tough to leave such a beautiful region of the U.S. behind. So, take a break from your daily routine, grab your friends and family, and enjoy a fulfilling road trip full of fun memories and unforgettable experiences.