Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burlington, Iowa to Panama City Beach, Florida

Are you tired of the same old drive down I-35 and I-65 to get from Burlington, Iowa to Panama City Beach, Florida? Why not take a more scenic route and explore some unexpected places along the way? This road trip takes approximately 17 hours and covers 1,150 miles, but the memories and experiences you'll gain from these stops will make it all worth it.

Halfway Point: Joelton, TN

Before diving into the unexpected stops along the way, don't forget to take a breather and stretch your legs at the halfway point: Joelton, TN. This small but charming town offers a variety of scenic hiking trails and relaxing camping spots. The family-owned and operated Mulch Company is also a must-visit where you can find unique and creative mulch products to add to your home or garden.

Stop #1: Louisville, KY

Home to the famous Kentucky Derby, there's more to Louisville than just horse racing. Take a detour to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory to learn about the history of baseball and see the iconic bat used by legends such as Babe Ruth and Derek Jeter. Don't forget to check out the Muhammad Ali Center, a museum dedicated to the boxing legend that showcases his life and accomplishments. For a delicious meal, grab a hot brown sandwich at the Brown Hotel, a Louisville classic filled with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.

Stop #2: Helen, GA

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen, GA is a charming Bavarian-inspired town that will transport you to Europe without the pricey plane ticket. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets and admire the unique architecture and shops filled with handmade crafts, antiques, and locally made goods. For a filling and traditional German meal, stop by the Bodensee Restaurant and try their famous schnitzel with a glass of cold beer.

Stop #3: St. Augustine, FL

The oldest city in America, St. Augustine, FL is full of history and charm. Take a tour of the famous Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish fort built in the late 1600s to protect St. Augustine from British invasion. For art lovers, the Lightner Museum is a must-visit where you can see collections of fine art, antiques, and mechanical musical instruments. Before leaving, stop at Columbia Restaurant for their award-winning 1905 Salad, a combination of iceberg lettuce, julienne of baked ham, Swiss cheese, tomato, olives, grated Romano cheese, and their homemade dressing.

Stop #4: Gulf Shores, AL

If you're looking for a relaxing beach day, Gulf Shores, AL is the perfect stop for you. With miles of white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, this beach town offers a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Don't miss out on trying the famous seafood at King Neptune's Seafood Restaurant, where you can indulge in a fresh fish sandwich or a bucket of crab legs.

Stop #5: Mobile, AL

Before reaching your final destination, take a detour to Mobile, AL where you can experience the Mardi Gras festivities year-round at the Mobile Carnival Museum. Here you will learn about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras in Mobile, and even try on a costume or two. For a taste of traditional Southern cuisine, stop by the famous Wintzell's Oyster House and try their signature oysters served raw, grilled, or fried.

Conclusion

This road trip offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and relaxation, and the unexpected stops along the way make it all the more memorable. From exploring a Bavarian town in Georgia to experiencing Mardi Gras in Mobile, this trip offers a variety of unique experiences that you won't find on a traditional road trip. So grab your map and snacks, and embark on an adventure of a lifetime.