Top Five Places to Visit Between Cape Coral, FL and Andover, MA

If you're planning a road trip from Cape Coral, Florida to Andover, Massachusetts, you're in for a treat. This scenic drive through the eastern part of the United States will take you through some charming towns and cities, breathtaking landscapes, and plenty of historical sites. Here are the top five places you must visit on your way, and the best part is, they are all family-friendly!

The Halfway Point: Smithfield, NC

Smithfield, North Carolina, is the perfect halfway point in your journey between Cape Coral and Andover. Here you'll find the Ava Gardner Museum, which is a must-visit for fans of classic Hollywood. The museum is dedicated to the life and career of Ava Gardner, who was born and raised in the small town of Smithfield. You'll see exhibits and movie memorabilia from movies like "The Killers," "Mogambo," and "The Barefoot Contessa." The museum also has a rotating exhibit gallery featuring pieces of art and photography.

Stop 1: Savannah, GA

Savannah, Georgia, is a historic city with plenty of antebellum architecture, lush parks, and cobblestone streets. One of the must-visit places here is the Forsyth Park. Once you step into this sprawling green space with a magnificent fountain at its center, you will fall in love with its charm. There is plenty of shade to relax and soak up the vibes. There are plenty of benches to sit and people-watch while kids play at the nearby playground. For history buffs, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum is a National Historic Landmark and a tribute to the founder of the Girl Scouts of America.

Stop 2: Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, is another southern gem that's full of history and charm. The city is known for its well-manicured gardens, quaint buildings, and cobblestone streets. One of the top attractions here is the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, which is the oldest public garden in America. Spread over 60 acres, Magnolia Plantation has beautiful gardens and swamps that offer panoramic views of flora and fauna. Don't forget about taking a horse-drawn carriage ride along Rainbow Row to get a glimpse of the colorful houses.

Stop 3: Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers many things to see and do including a waterfront area that is a perfect place to have lunch or dinner. But the most popular attraction is the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. Kids will love it here because of the fun, interactive exhibits, and plenty of sea creatures like sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. For a more adventurous experience, visitors can climb aboard a dolphin watching cruise or the most significant breeding grounds of the Atlantic green sea turtles.

Stop 4: Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a city known for its significant role in US history, especially as the birthplace of America. Independence National Historical Park, The Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall are must-visit places here. Your family can walk around enjoying all the historical buildings, markers, and gardens, but an Inside tip: you must try the cheesesteak while you're there. For the kids, the Please Touch Museum should be on your list. It is one of Philadelphia's most popular museums for kids. Interactive exhibits, events, and year-round workshops, this museum is a paradise for kids of all ages.

Stop 5: Mystic, CT

Mystic, Connecticut, a picturesque seaside town that has a little something for everyone. The Mystic Seaport Museum is a living history museum where visitors can explore shady streets and gardens, a steamboat wharf, and a full-size 19th-century seaport. Displays of maritime history, including wooden ships, whaling artifacts, and a working shipyard, fascinate visitors of all ages. The Mystic Aquarium is also worth a visit, with its multiple exhibits, Jurassic Shark, and varied habitats to learn about the underwater animals.

Each of the five places listed above offers its unique charm, history, and family-friendly activities that will make your road trip an adventure to remember. So plan your route, pack your bags, and let the adventure begin!