Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brunswick, GA to Tampa, FL
If you’re looking for a perfect road trip that encompasses natural, historic, and exciting locations in the USA, driving from Brunswick, Georgia, to Tampa, Florida, is the perfect choice. With a driving distance of approximately 260 miles and a drive time of 4 to 5 hours, this scenic drive offers a range of unexpected places to stop and explore.
The Halfway Point: Melrose, FL
Located halfway between Brunswick and Tampa, Melrose, FL, is a charming small town that’s worth stopping. Melrose offers a laid-back escape from the busy highways with its picturesque moss-draped oak trees, historic buildings, and lively arts scene. You won’t regret taking some time to explore this town, which is known as the "Lake Region."
1. Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park
This park is a must-visit spot for literature lovers. Author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings's home and farm is in this picturesque park. If you are a fan of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Yearling,” you won’t want to skip this authentic attraction. Visitors can tour the writer's home, see authentic post-World War II farming equipment, and take a few short hikes while visiting the park.
Favorite food: After a tour, head to nearby Blue Water Bay Restaurant and have their phenomenal seafood platter.
2. Island Grove Wine Company
If you are traveling between October and June, Island Grove Wine Company’s blueberry farm should be high on your list. It's worth checking out for a few glasses of some of the best wine made from locally grown blueberries. Here, you can taste different wine samplers, learn about the production process, and check out free-range farm animals.
Favorite food: Besides their amazing blueberry wine, Island Grove Wine Company boasts a heavenly blueberry caramel brownie that is a must-try.
3. Cross Creek Cemetery
For those who have read Rawlings' book The Yearling, the cemetery is a must-see spot. The inspiration behind this classic novel came from a little grave atop a hill. The little cemetery is peaceful and serene and feels like walking through the pages of the book.
Favorite food: Head to nearby Harry's Seafood Restaurant Bar and Grill for delicious seafood dishes.
4. Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park
This stunning park is situated a few miles away from Gainesville, in North Central Florida. Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park is home to a 120-foot-deep limestone sinkhole. Visitors can hike a stairway down to the bottom of the sinkhole and witness the rich wildlife, stunning and unique geological formations.
Favorite food: Head to Northwest Grille for traditional American dishes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
5. Tarpon Springs
This historic Greek town located on the Gulf of Mexico is known as the "Sponge Capital of the World". Tarpon Springs's sponge industry has been thriving for over 100 years, and it is still an essential component of the town’s culture. The main attraction, of course, is boat tours aboard sponge fishing vessels, which take visitors out to discover how sponges are collected harvested and exported. Experience the historic buildings, and check out some gorgeous landscape and beautiful beaches.
Favorite food: Greek cuisine is the star of the show here, and Hellas Restaurant has been said to be the best spot to try it.
Conclusion
The drive from Brunswick, Georgia, to Tampa, Florida and the small towns that lie along the way will be one of the most stunning and mesmerizing road trips you will ever take. Visiting the unexpected stops like Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park, Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park, or Tarpon Springs will leave you with loads of unforgettable memories. This trip offers something for everyone while still maintaining its authenticity with cultural, historic, and recreational stops. So get ready to hit the open roads, put on some tunes, and start exploring!