Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buffalo, New York and Zephyrhills, Florida

Buffalo, New York and Zephyrhills, Florida couldn't be further apart, but what if you could take a road trip that encompasses both states and everything in between?

The drive from Buffalo, New York to Zephyrhills, Florida takes approximately 19 hours, covering a distance of around 1,221 miles. But, why make the trip in one go when there are so many places to see, things to do, and delicious food to eat along the way?

So, buckle up and get ready to embark on an adventure that will take you through mountains, southern culture, white sandy beaches, and everything in between. But first, let's make a stop in Huntersville, North Carolina - the halfway point of this journey.

1. The Museum of Appalachia - Norris, Tennessee

Heading south from Buffalo, New York, the Museum of Appalachia is your first unexpected pit-stop for some Southern history in Norris, Tennessee. This rural cultural museum showcases artifacts, music, and crafts from pioneers who made their way through the southern Appalachian Mountains.

Learn about the simple life that these groups of people had and take the time to appreciate the beauty of their culture through the preserved demonstrations of skilled craftsmen. End your visit with a freshly made cornbread, a staple of Appalachian cuisine.

2. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum - Bristol, Virginia

As you continue down the road, make a stop in Bristol, Virginia - known as the birthplace of country music. The museum showcases how the grandfather of country music, Jimmie Rodgers, set the stage for the modern country music of today.

Explore the exhibits featuring famous country music artists and listen to some of their hits in the listening rooms. To truly immerse yourself in the experience, try some fried chicken and biscuits from the restaurant located inside the museum.

3. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, known for its rich history and romantic charm, is a beautiful city to explore. Wander through the downtown district to admire the historic buildings, quaint alleyways, and beautiful parks.

Make your way to River Street to enjoy live jazz music, sip on some sweet tea, or try a pimento cheese sandwich, this Southern delicacy is a must-try dish. Take a walk through Forsyth Park, one of the largest green spaces in Savannah, and soak in the beauty of the Spanish-moss draped streets.

4. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art - Sarasota, Florida

Stop in Sarasota, Florida, to visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which houses works of art from around the world. The museum building itself is a work of art with its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay.

Take the time to visit the circus museum, showcasing the Ringling Brothers' Circus history, with artifacts from its early years. After discovering the arts, visit the Rosemary and Thyme restaurant and enjoy a classic Floridian dish of blackened Snapper with fresh Key-lime pie for dessert.

5. St. Augustine, Florida

Before reaching your final destination, make a final stop in St. Augustine, Florida. It is an old-world city founded in 1565 making it the oldest continuously inhabited city in the US.

Tour the historic district and visit the Flagler College campus, once the luxurious Ponce de Leon Hotel back in the 1800s. Finally, grab some seafood from a beachside restaurant, and take a walk along miles of pristine beaches to see an incredible sunset, making for the perfect end to your two-state road trip.

Conclusion

The Buffalo to Zephyrhills road trip is extremely diverse, taking you through rolling hills, charming small towns, vibrant cities, and finally, the sandy beaches of the southern states.

At each pit-stop, you will find fascinating places to visit, delicious food to eat, and a wealth of culture to immerse yourself in. So, get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, one that can deliver treasured memories that will last a lifetime.