Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brookport, Illinois to Tenaha, Texas
Road trips can be an exciting way to explore the countryside, and a drive from Brookport, Illinois to Tenaha, Texas is no exception. This 897-mile journey takes approximately 15 hours of driving time, passing through Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Texas. Along the way, there are several unexpected places that travelers should make a stop to experience something new and exciting.
The halfway point of this journey is Lonoke, Arkansas, marking a perfect place to stretch your legs and explore the surrounding areas. But that's not the only noteworthy location on this drive. Below are five unexpected places you must stop on your journey, along with a brief description of each location and their must-try foods.
1. Joppa, IL - Firefly Valley
Located approximately 40 minutes from Brookport, Illinois, Joppa's Firefly Valley is a must-visit spot for nature lovers. As the name suggests, this site is popular for the annual synchronized flashing of fireflies that takes place every summer, making the entire valley glow like a fairytale. Additionally, one can enjoy kayaking on the Ohio River and hiking in nearby Shawnee National Forest.
Must-try food: The Joppa Local Deli serves some of the best sandwiches in town. Try their signature Italian sub, which comes packed with genoa salami, mortadella, pepperoni, and provolone cheese.
2. Bowling Green, KY - National Corvette Museum
The National Corvette Museum, located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a must-visit place for car enthusiasts. Here, visitors can see over 80 Corvettes on display, including the 1 millionth and 1.5 millionth Corvettes ever made! Visitors can also take a guided tour of the GM Bowling Green Corvette Assembly Plant located across the street.
Must-try food: Chicken and Waffles from Mikado Sushi and Steakhouse. This Asian-style fried chicken served with waffles and syrup was featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.
3. Nashville, TN - Johnny Cash Museum & Cafe
The Johnny Cash Museum & Cafe, located in Nashville, Tennessee, is a great place for music and history enthusiasts. Visitors can revisit the life and career of the legendary Johnny Cash, from his humble beginnings to his role in shaping music history. The museum also features exhibits of Cash’s personal items and memorabilia and a cafe with 1950s-style milkshakes and crispy fried chicken.
Must-try food: Hot Chicken from Hattie B’s. This fried chicken served with a fiery spice level is a Nashville staple.
4. Memphis, TN - Sun Studio
Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, is known as the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Here, visitors can catch a glimpse of how legends like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison recorded their iconic hits. One can witness the same recording equipment and test their luck at cutting a recording of their own.
Must-try food: BBQ Ribs from Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous. This “world-famous” Memphis-style BBQ restaurant is a must-visit. Try their signature dry-rubbed ribs served with beans and slaw.
5. Nacogdoches, TX - Millard’s Crossing Historic Village
Millard's Crossing Historic Village in Nacogdoches, Texas, is a unique attraction that captures the rural lifestyle of Texas in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This village is made up of original structures from the founder Charles Hoya's family and other East Texas pioneers, who begin settling in the area in the early 19th century. Visitors can explore the village, learn about the early settlers' lives, and watch live demonstrations of blacksmithing and weaving.
Must-try food: Steak from Clear Springs Restaurant. This restaurant is a popular stop on the way to Houston for their classic Texas-style steaks.
Road trips hold a special place in the hearts of adventure seekers. A drive from Brookport, Illinois, to Texaha, Texas, offers a journey that's exciting and full of unexpected surprises. From Joppa's Firefly Valley and Bowling Green's National Corvette Museum to Nashville's Johnny Cash Museum & Cafe, Memphis' Sun Studio, and Nacogdoches' Millard's Crossing Historic Village, there's something for everyone. So, start packing your bags and hit the road to explore the beauty that surrounds us.