Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canton, Michigan to Zephyrhills, Florida
Are you looking for an exciting road trip from Michigan to Florida, dotted with little-known gems to visit along the way? Look no further! This article highlights five off-the-beaten-path stops that will spice up your journey, showcasing beautiful scenery, tasty food, and delightful surprises.
Embark on an approximately 20-hour, 1,300-mile journey from Canton, Michigan, to Zephyrhills, Florida. The dark horse of this road trip is Tennessee, with fantastic attractions that will leave you awestruck. Each stop will bring from one to three hours of exploration.
Halfway Point: Ooltewah, TN
Located roughly halfway into the trip, Ooltewah, Tennessee, is much more than a convenient pit stop. Nestled at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains and situated near the popular city of Chattanooga, Ooltewah boasts a tranquil setting with a rich history and culture. Don’t rush through – set aside a few hours to visit the captivating spots in and around Ooltewah.
The Purple Daisy Picnic Café, Ooltewah’s hidden gem. This quaint eatery is an excellent place to stop for exquisite barbecue and a refreshing drink on a sunny day. The café has a down-home feel, and the owners are friendly, making you feel like one of the locals. Don’t miss their signature sandwich – pulled pork or smoked chicken.
The Ocoee River in Polk County, TN, is a mecca for nature enthusiasts. Famous for rafting and kayaking, the river’s class 3-4 rapids offer a thrilling adventure. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, stroll along the river’s banks and enjoy a picnic with your family and friends. The Ocoee River is a must-see location with a magical charm.
The Ooltewah Farmers Market is open every Thursday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The market offers a wide range of locally sourced produce, fresh eggs, grass-fed beef, handmade crafts, baked goods, and gourmet snacks. Don’t forget to try the renowned Tennessee “moonshine,” a corn-based whiskey.Enjoy the live music and get a taste of the real Tennessee.
2. Lynchburg, TN
Lynchburg is a small town in Tennessee that was once home to a distillery but is now known worldwide as the birthplace of Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey. This city offers visitors a touch of Southern charm that you won’t find anywhere else.
Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tour: Take a tour of the historic distillery, where you can browse over 170 years of whiskey-making history and see the entire process from the same water source to the classic charcoal mellowing, and finish with a Jack Daniel’s whiskey tasting. Believe it or not, Lynchburg, being dry, is a town where no “Jack” is sold in any local bars or restaurants.
Lynchburg Cake and Candy Company: Located just around the corner from the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, this little candy company is a must-visit destination for dessert lovers. The shelves are lined with every Southern delight, from buttery pecan pie to creamy fudge and rum cakes. Pick up a Jack Daniel's Whiskey or Tennessee Honey pecan pie for your road trip.
3. Jekyll Island, GA
Jekyll Island, Georgia, is a southern treasure that offers a relaxing and family-friendly option along the way. It was once a private island purchased in the late 1800s, by a group of wealthy businessmen, including J.P. Morgan and William Rockefeller Jr., to be used as a private winter retreat.
Driftwood Beach: This scenic shoreline's unique feature is the trees that emerge from the sand and create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Driftwood is perfect for PaddleBoarding or strolling with a loved one. The beach's natural beauty and tranquil vibe make it a favorite spot for beach lounging and photo ops.
Jekyll Island Club Resort: Jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic, sun-washed sands, unparalleled southern hospitality, and elegant accommodations come together at the historic Jekyll Island Club Resort. In the hotel's Presidential Suite, US presidents like Woodrow Wilson found refuge, and the elegance of the mansion resonates throughout the hotel's corridors. Take time to relax, refresh, and recharge with some of the world-class amenities available.
4. Celebration, FL
Celebration, Florida, built and run by Walt Disney World's Disney Development Company, provides small-town charm and big-city conveniences.
Market Street Café is a welcoming eatery in the heart of downtown Celebration. Enjoy outdoor dining under wrought-iron lamps, or inside, where rustic decor, pressed-tin ceilings, and bare wood walls provide a cozy ambiance. Diners rave about the crab cakes and roasted beet salad.
The Chapel of Peace offers a peaceful and contemplative space for visitors and residents alike. The Gothic-style chapel has elegant stained-glass windows that adorn the walls. Enjoy the serenity of Celebration by stopping at this hidden gem.
5. Tarpon Springs, FL
Last but not least, Tarpon Springs, Florida, is a charming small city north of Tampa, boasting Hellenic heritage and the state's largest Greek-American community.
Sponge Docks is Tarpon Springs's most vibrant attraction. Take a boat trip to witness how the sponge industry operates, and then stroll through the sponge markets. It's a perfect spot for souvenir shopping or a beautiful Greek dinner along the waterfront. The Outdoor Greek Market is another location of note for fulfilling your Greek needs.
Hellas Bakery has the best Baklava in town. Located on the Sponge Docks, Hellas is famous for being one of Tarpon Springs' most prominent Greek restaurants and bakeries, a fact that reflects the town's connection with Greece. Baklava, or paper-thin filo filled with nuts and drizzled with honey syrup, is the top dish to try at the bakery.
In conclusion, the road trip from Canton to Zephyrhills is a must-do for adventure-seeking travelers looking for hidden gems in the Southern states. From the enchanting town of Ooltewah to the sponge docks of Tarpon Springs, each stop has its unique attraction to behold. Whether it's the beautiful beaches, awe-inspiring scenery, or delicious cuisine, this road trip has something to offer everyone. Get ready to embark on one of the best road trips in the region, and we guarantee that you'll create unforgettable memories and leave with a longing to do it all again.