Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Camden Point, Missouri and Peachtree Corners, Georgia

Driving from Camden Point, Missouri, to Peachtree Corners, Georgia can be a long and tedious trip. It would take approximately 12 hours if the driver takes the most direct route, which spans about 750 miles. However, breaking up the trip with some unexpected stops can make the journey much more enjoyable. Here are five unexpected places to stop during this journey.

Halfway point: Vienna, IL (bolded title)

One and a half hours away from St. Louis, Vienna is the halfway point for those who will take the most direct route. It is a small town located in Johnson County, Illinois, and a hub of many unique experiences. A fun activity in this town is visiting the Vienna Public Library. This is no ordinary library, as it houses curious collections that are rare to find in one place. One can find collections of local artifacts, cultural items, and historical artifacts that date back several centuries. Various events such as story circles, public lectures, and book clubs are also held here. The Deli Basket is an excellent stopping point for food. A gem in the town, it sells sandwiches and other food items that are made from locally sourced ingredients.

1. Batesville, AR (bolded title)

Batesville is a small town in the northeastern part of Arkansas, six hours away from Vienna, IL. Batesville is famous for having the oldest university in the state of Arkansas, the Lyon College. Visitors to Batesville can stretch their legs at Maxfield Park, where there are walking trails and a water feature for those who want to take a rest. A great place to eat lunch is the Josie's Steak House, which has been around since 1967. They specialize in steaks, prime ribs, and Cajun chicken, all prepared to perfection.

2. Tupelo, MS (bolded title)

From Batesville, Mississippi is the next stop, around three hours away. The town is famous for being the birthplace of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, and of course, a visit to the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum is a must. The museum is a shrine to the King's long and legendary life, and the tour pays homage to Elvis's legendary career as an entertainer. For one's taste buds, Johnnie's Drive-In, a classic diner, is the perfect place for a meal. Their wide assortment of milkshakes, burgers, and fries are sure to delight.

3. Opelika, AL (bolded title)

Opelika is a small town in eastern Alabama, three hours away from Tupelo. The town is teeming with history and charm, with a city center that is alive with shops, museums, pubs, and cafes. Take a guided walking tour of the town to learn about prominent residents and unique cultural attractions. A must-visit restaurant in Opelika is the Red Clay Brewing Company. The architecture of the old railroad building housing the taproom adds to the ambiance of the environment, and their brews are guaranteed to satisfy.

4. Gatlinburg, TN (bolded title)

A day's drive from Opelika, TN is Gatlinburg, a small mountain town nestled in the Smoky Mountains. It attracts tourists from all over the US for its breathtaking views, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. Take a cable car up to Ober Gatlinburg for an unforgettable experience. Ober Gatlinburg offers a year-round ice skating rink and a ski and snowboard course during the winter season. For those who want to sample delicious Southern cuisine, the Pancake Pantry is the perfect place to eat. Here, they serve a variety of fluffy pancakes and biscuits with gravy that will leave visitors wanting more.

5. Athens, GA (bolded title)

Another three hours drive will bring you to Athens, GA, a city that boasts a rich history, a vibrant music scene, and a thriving arts community. The Georgia Museum of Art is a popular destination in Athens for its extensive collection of American art, from the 19th century to modern day artists. For an ice-cold beer, Creature Comforts Brewing Company is a must-visit destination. With their award-winning beers, Creature Comforts is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the ambiance of Athens.

In conclusion, taking a drive from Camden Point, Missouri, to Peachtree Corners, Georgia, can be a long and tedious journey, but it can be made much more enjoyable by breaking it up with unexpected stops. From historic sites to great food joints, visitors will have the opportunity to experience different cultures and environments during their visit. It is an excellent chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.