#Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Brookfield, Wisconsin and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
If you're planning a road trip from Brookfield, Wisconsin, to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and you're looking to make the most out of your journey, you're in luck. There are plenty of unique and exciting places to stop and explore along the way. The drive itself will take you approximately nine hours, with a distance of around 600 miles. And while that might sound like a long drive, taking the time to explore some hidden gems along the way can break up the monotony and make for an unforgettable trip. So buckle up, grab your map or GPS, and get ready to experience five unexpected places along the route.
##Halfway point: Nashville, IN
Before we get to the five stops we recommend, first, we have to talk about the halfway point: Nashville, IN. Nashville is a charming small town with a population of around 1,100. It's a beautiful destination filled with art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants. One of the main draws of Nashville is the Brown County State Park. If you have the time, we highly recommend taking a hike here and enjoying the stunning views.
###Stop 1: Batavia, Illinois – Fermilab National Accelerator Laboratory
Located about three hours into your drive, in Batavia, Illinois, is the Fermilab National Accelerator Laboratory. Science enthusiasts will love this stop. Fermilab is home to the world's most potent particle accelerator and is open to the public. The laboratory also has several fascinating exhibits that detail its cutting-edge research in particle physics. We recommend grabbing a bite to eat at the Fermilab's cafeteria, you can expect great food with affordable prices.
###Stop 2: Brazil, Indiana – Exotic Feline Rescue Center
In Brazil, Indiana, it's hard to miss the big cats roaring at the Exotic Feline Rescue Center. Operating on donations and volunteers, the center provides a safe haven for over 100 big cats. Visitors have the chance to take a guided tour and learn about the animals and their natural habitats. The tour offers an up-close look at lions, tigers, leopards, and cougars. If you're lucky and visit during a feeding time, it's a life-changing experience we cannot suggest missing.
###Stop 3: Cave City, Kentucky – Mammoth Cave National Park
About two and a half hours into Kentucky in Cave City, you have the opportunity to visit The Mammoth Cave National Park. This national park is home to the world's largest known cave system, covering over 400 miles. Visitors can take guided cave tours with a ranger and experience a break from the outside world. We highly recommend trying out the 'Domes and Dripstones' tour as it takes you through the most ornate sections of the cave. And what better food option when you're underground than – yes, you guessed it – a simple sub sandwich.
###Stop 4: Gatlinburg, Tennessee – Great Smoky Mountain National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains are a sight to behold, and by now, you're about two hours away from Pigeon Forge. Located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, it's a short drive into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park where you can hike, camp, and explore this natural wonder. We recommend the Cades Cove area where you will see meadows, rivers, wildlife, and even a few historic buildings. If you're not in the mood for hiking, then try out some southern-style BBQ, a specialty of the area.
###Stop 5: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee – Dollywood
You finally made it to Pigeon Forge, and what better way to end it than to visit Dollywood! This theme park owned by Dolly Parton's provides entertainment for all ages. With over 40 rides, live music performances, and specialized cuisine, it's indeed an everyone occasion. Our suggestion is the famous turkey leg, a theme park must-have.
##Conclusion
In conclusion, while taking the trip from Brookfield, Wisconsin, to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, might seem like just a long drive, it can provide some excellent entertainment and can transform into a once in a lifetime experience. From scientific laboratories to big-cat sanctuaries or underground caves systems to mountains and theme parks, there is something for everyone. We hope our article has encouraged you to venture out and make some unique pit stops on your next road trip.