Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brook Park, Ohio and Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Brook Park, Ohio, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, might seem far apart, but a road trip connecting these two places is full of surprises, adventures, and breathtaking views. Along the way, the journey goes through beautiful landscapes, charming small towns, and exciting attractions that are sure to keep travelers intrigued. One of the highlights of the trip is the midway point, Dry Ridge, KY, a quaint town that offers a chance to stretch the legs and learn more about the early days of transportation, the historic passenger train depot, and the Ark Encounter. Read on to discover the best things to do on the road trip from Brook Park to Gatlinburg.

Drive through Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park is the world's longest cave system, and it is a must-visit destination for any road tripper heading from Ohio to Tennessee. The park is home to more than 400 miles of underground chambers, tunnels, and rivers and boasts several popular tours, including the Frozen Niagara Tour and the Domes and Dripstones Tour. Visitors can also explore the park's extensive network of hiking trails, bike routes, and horseback riding paths that lead through dense forests and scenic vistas.

Fun fact: Although Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system, cavers have explored only a fraction of it, as new discoveries continue to be made each year.

Visit the National Corvette Museum

For automobile enthusiasts, a trip to the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY, is a must. The museum showcases the history and evolution of the iconic American sports car. Visitors can admire the collection of vintage, rare, and experimental Corvettes, and learn about the engineering, design, and technical innovations that made the car a legend. The museum also offers guided tours of the nearby Corvette factory, where visitors can see the cars being assembled from start to finish.

Fun fact: The National Corvette Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Corvettes in the world, and it is considered the ultimate pilgrimage site for fans of the car.

Discover the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the US, and for a good reason. The park is renowned for its pristine wilderness, diverse wildlife, and stunning panoramic views. Visitors can explore the park's many trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, which stretches for nearly 70 miles through the park. The park is also home to hundreds of native plant species, such as rhododendrons, azaleas, and dogwoods, and visitors can marvel at their beauty during the spring and summer months.

Fun fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is named for the misty fog that often covers the forested mountains, creating a blue-grey haze that is both mysterious and beautiful.

Experience Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Show

For an unforgettable evening of entertainment, dining, and fun, travelers should head to Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Show in Pigeon Forge, TN. The show combines live entertainment, acrobatics, and horsemanship, showcasing the talents of skilled performers. Visitors can also enjoy a delicious four-course feast, served in a traditional southern style, complete with biscuits, gravy, and dessert. The show is suitable for all ages and promises to be an exciting highlight of any road trip.

Fun fact: The Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Show features more than two dozen horses, all trained to perform complex routines that showcase their agility, speed, and coordination.

Explore the Asheville River Arts District

The Asheville River Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood that showcases the work of local artists and artisans. The area is home to more than 200 studios, galleries, and workshops, where visitors can discover unique handcrafted items such as pottery, paintings, jewelry, and sculptures. The district is located along the French Broad River, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors to explore the area, taking in street art, and restaurants that serve up Southern hospitality.

Fun fact: Some of the artists who work in the Asheville River Arts District have gained national and international recognition and won multiple awards for their exceptional work.

Conclusion

A road trip from Brook Park, Ohio, to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a fantastic adventure that takes travelers through some of the most beautiful landscapes and exciting destinations in the US. The trip covers more than 600 miles and can take anywhere between 10-16 hours, depending on the route and stops. However, with the five destinations listed above, the journey is much more enjoyable and worth every second spent on the road. Whether it is exploring the world's longest cave system, admiring an iconic sports car, discovering the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, enjoying a spectacular evening of entertainment, or exploring a vibrant artist neighborhood, the road trip has something for everyone. Happy travels!