Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bartow, Florida to Chesapeake, Virginia
Driving from Bartow, Florida to Chesapeake, Virginia takes approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes. Covering a distance of 835 miles, this route passes through six states- Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland. While this road trip may seem long and uneventful, there are a few unexpected stops that are worth exploring. Here are the top five unconventional places to visit on this journey.
Halfway Point: Saint George, SC
The halfway point on the drive is located in the small town of Saint George, South Carolina. It's a picturesque small town with a population of just over 2,000 people. Here are some other places in Saint George worth visiting:
St. George United Methodist Church (305 N Parler Ave, Saint George, SC 29477) The St. George United Methodist Church was established in 1877, and it's the oldest church in Saint George. This church offers a peaceful and spiritual environment. Visitors can explore the beautiful stained glass windows and attend Sunday service if they wish. Favorite food: The red velvet cupcakes sold by the church ladies every Sunday after the service are a must-try.
Old Dorchester State Historical Park (300 State Park Rd, St. George, SC 29477) The Old Dorchester State Historical Park is a great place to learn about the history of the area. The park has a few walking trails, picnic tables, and interpretive signs that give visitors a glimpse of how the people of Dorchester County once lived. The park is also home to the ruins of St. George's Anglican Church, which was built in 1719. Favorite food: The packed lunches provided by the park are great to have while enjoying a picnic in the park.
1. Statesboro, GA
Statesboro, Georgia is a small college town located approximately three hours north of Saint George. The town's vibrant atmosphere and rich history make it a must-visit destination.
The Georgia Southern campus (1332 Southern Dr, Statesboro, GA 30458) Georgia Southern's campus is known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment. Visitors can stroll through the campus and take pride in the history and story of the university. Favorite Food: The hot wings at the Russell Union food court are a popular local favorite.
The Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market (2 E Main St. Statesboro, GA 30458) The Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market is a weekly event that takes place every Saturday from 9 am to 12:30 pm during the growing season. The market offers fresh fruits and vegetables, a variety of baked goods, art, and crafts. Favorite food: The peach cobbler sold by Ms. Dorothy is a must-try.
2. Rocking Chair Mountain, NC
Rocking Chair Mountain, North Carolina, offers a majestic view of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. It's an excellent stop for anyone looking to enjoy nature on their journey.
Blue Ridge Parkway (Rocking Chair Overlook, Milepost 399.4) The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic route that offers breathtaking views of the mountains. The Rocking Chair Overlook is one of the best spots to stop and enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Favorite food: Blue Ridge Bakery in nearby Brevard offers a range of delicious baked goods, including muffins and tarts, perfect for a quick snack before continuing through the mountains.
Looking Glass Falls (NC-276, Brevard, NC 28712) Looking Glass Falls is a popular waterfall located less than 30 minutes from Rocking Chair Mountain. Visitors can access the waterfall via a short trail and can even swim in the pool beneath the waterfall. Favorite food: Visit The Square Root in Brevard for lunch or dinner. Their delicious, locally sourced cuisine and craft cocktails will provide the perfect end to a day of exploring.
3. Dale City, VA
Dale City, Virginia, offers a mix of history and family-friendly activities. It's an excellent spot for individuals and families to relax and unwind.
National Museum of the Marine Corps (18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Triangle, VA 22172) The National Museum of the Marine Corps is a great place for history buffs to learn about the United States Marine Corps' rich history. The museum exhibits offer an immersive experience, and visitors can even participate in interactive activities. Favorite food: The museum's Tun Tavern restaurant offers a variety of menu items, including seafood and steak.
Potomac Mills Mall (2700 Potomac Mills Cir, Woodbridge, VA 22192) Potomac Mills Mall is a popular shopping destination and offers a wide variety of stores. Visitors can find everything from designer fashion to children's clothing. Favorite food: The Cheesecake Factory restaurant offers a diverse menu of cuisines, making it an excellent spot for lunch or dinner.
4. Westminster, MD
Westminster, Maryland, is a quaint town located approximately 90 minutes north of Dale City. It's known for its downtown area, which features a mix of restaurants, shops, and historic buildings.
Carroll County Farm Museum (500 S Center St, Westminster, MD 21157) The Carroll County Farm Museum gives visitors a glimpse into Maryland's rich agricultural history. Visitors can explore the farm's extensive grounds, including the historic buildings and barns. Favorite food: The Farmhouse Kitchen offers delicious, homestyle cuisine, perfect for anyone looking for a taste of Maryland's farm-to-table dining.
Downtown Westminster (Westminster, MD) Downtown Westminster offers a mix of shops and restaurants. Visitors can find antiques, books, and even vintage clothing. Favorite food: The Westminster Grill offers a variety of grille items, including burgers, steaks, and seafood.
Conclusion
Going on a long road trip can sometimes be tedious. However, exploring new places along the way can make the journey enjoyable and more meaningful. This guide outlines five unexpected but enjoyable stops to make on your drive from Bartow, Florida, to Chesapeake, Virginia. From the serene environment of Georgia Southern's campus to the majesty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, there's something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, food, or nature, there's something for you on this trip. So, the next time you plan a road trip, consider taking a detour to explore these unconventional destinations.