Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brown, Ohio and Melbourne, Florida
If you are planning a road trip from Brown, Ohio to Melbourne, Florida, there are several unexpected places you can stop and explore along the way. Overall, the journey takes about 15 hours, so it's best to take breaks to stretch your legs, soak up some new experiences, and enjoy some delicious food. Here are five unexpected places to stop that are sure to make your road trip a memorable one.
Halfway Point: Atlanta, GA
Before we dive into our first stop, we should mention the halfway point of this journey: Atlanta, Georgia! Atlanta is the capital and largest city in the state of Georgia and is known for its rich history, food, and music scene. It's an incredible place to explore if you have a few extra days. Visit the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, or take a stroll through Centennial Olympic Park. Not to mention, you can indulge in some of the best Southern cuisine in the country!
1. Ashville, NC - A Haven for Adventurers
Asheville, North Carolina is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is surrounded by lush vegetation, hiking trails, and stunning landscapes. Visitors to Asheville will enjoy the vibrant arts scene, craft beer breweries, and an exciting music and food scene. Those with a taste for adventure will enjoy heading into Pisgah National Forest and hiking some of the trails that lead to secret waterfalls or renting a mountain bike. There is no shortage of outdoor activities in this friendly and charming town.
Favorite Food: Biscuit Head
If you're visiting Asheville, you have to stop at Biscuit Head. They serve southern-inspired breakfast and lunch dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. However, the real star of the show is their flaky, buttery biscuits. They come in a variety of flavors like sweet potato, biscuit french toast, and fried chicken and biscuit. Delish!
2. Charleston, SC - A Historic Southern Belle
Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is known for its rich history, antebellum architecture, and vibrant food scene. The city's stunning coastal landscape, beaches, and charming streets make it an excellent stop for anyone on a road trip. Visitors can delve into the city's past by taking a walking tour or visiting one of its many museums. Charleston has a reputation as a food lover's paradise, which is well-deserved, as it offers a mix of soul food, farm-to-table dishes, seafood, and international cuisine in a variety of iconic and trendy eateries across the city.
Favorite Food: Husk
Husk is Chef Sean Brock's well-known restaurant in Charleston, and it is a must-visit for the ultimate Southern restaurant experience. They change their menu daily, highlighting southern cuisine and ingredients sourced from only the best local farms. Some of their menu items include HUSK cornbread, shrimp and grits, and a black skillet-fried chicken that will blow your mind.
3. Savannah, GA - Where Historic Meets Modern
Few American cities are as steeped in history as Savannah, Georgia. Cobblestone streets lined with century-old homes, tucked away among centuries-old live oak trees make this city a popular stop for tourists and history buffs. This city stands out not just for its historic beauty, but also its robust art and modern food scene. Visitors can experience a sunset river cruise, explore the historic Mercer Williams House Museum, and see the many significant monuments around the city.
Favorite Food: The Olde Pink House
The Olde Pink House is a charming historic mansion that has been transformed into a fine-dining restaurant. They serve traditional southern fare with a modern twist. While you can't go wrong with any of the options, be sure to try their gumbo and sweet tea fried chicken.
4. Jacksonville, FL - A Place for Fun and Sun
Jacksonville, Florida is the largest city by land area in the United States. It has become a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. With over 20 miles of stunning beaches, a booming nightlife, and multiple professional sports teams to cheer on, there's always something to do in this coastal city.
Favorite Food: The Bearded Pig BBQ
The Bearded Pig serves up some of the best BBQ in Florida and is a must-visit on your journey to Melbourne. They specialize in BBQ classic dishes like brisket, pulled pork, and smoked chicken. Don't forget to try their mac and cheese; it's amazing.
5. St. Augustine, FL - The Oldest City in the USA
St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest city in the United States and has a vibrant history while maintaining a quaint charm. Designated a National Historic Landmark, St. Augustine is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and old-world European feel. Visitors to St. Augustine can walk down St. George Street and indulge in some shopping and dining or visit the Castillo de San Marcos, a historic fort that overlooks the Matanzas Bay.
Favorite Food: The Floridian
The Floridian is a farm-to-table restaurant in St. Augustine that showcases the area's local ingredients and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Try their Datil pepper shrimp tacos or their arugula, apple, and brie sandwich for a flavor-packed meal.
In Conclusion
Taking a road trip from Brown, Ohio to Melbourne, Florida has its challenges, but it also offers the opportunity to discover unexpected places along the way. These five stops are just a taste of what you can experience; there are many more hidden gems to find. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there's something for everyone. So, pack up your bags, hop in your car, and explore the wonders that the southern United States have to offer.