Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Carrollton, Georgia to Montgomery, Michigan

Are you planning a road trip from Carrollton, Georgia to Montgomery, Michigan? If so, consider taking a few unexpected detours to explore some unique and exciting attractions along the way. This route covers 867 miles and takes approximately 13 hours without traffic. However, by taking the following pitstops, you’ll not only break up the drive but also discover some hidden gems that you may not have even known existed.

Halfway Point: Sonora, KY

Before we dive into the essential stops along the way, the halfway point of this trip is none other than Sonora, KY. This charming small town boasts a population of fewer than 500 people, but it has plenty to offer as a pitstop. Consider taking a break to visit the Civil War Fort Duffield Park, which provides insightful history into the pivotal role that Kentucky played during the War Between the States. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of some Civil War reenactments.

One of the most notable establishments in Sonora is the town's family-owned Hatchery Restaurant. The eatery has been a staple since 1946 and specializes in fried chicken and other southern comfort cuisine.

1. Chattanooga, TN

One of the first must-see attractions on this journey is Chattanooga, TN. This city is an excellent place to stretch your legs with a diverse array of activities, including hiking and biking trails, scenic riverboat cruises, and several museums. One of the most popular destinations in Chattanooga is the Tennessee Aquarium, home to over 12,000 animals spanning 900 species across two buildings. You can also take a stroll in the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world.

When it comes to food, don't forget to grab some delicious barbecue at Sticky Fingers Ribhouse, a must-visit eatery in Chattanooga. The locally-owned restaurant serves its takes on classic Southern BBQ, including their sweet potato casserole and mac and cheese.

2. Louisville, KY

Louisville, KY, is not to be overlooked on your trip. Although it's the largest city along the way, the town's charm is undeniable. It's impossible to visit and miss the Kentucky Derby Museum to get a feel for the town's most famous tradition. Stretch your legs and see the museum's exhibits, including memorabilia and high-tech interactive displays.

For lunch, there's no better stop than the renowned Brown Hotel, an iconic establishment that dates back to 1923. Their famous Hot Brown sandwich is a must-try: an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with bacon, Mornay sauce, and baked until golden brown.

3. Indianapolis, IN

While this city might be most prominently known for hosting the Indianapolis 500 motor speedway, it also offers plenty to do year-round. Indianapolis has no shortage of cultural attractions, including the Indianapolis Museum of Art and the Indiana War Memorial Museum.

For dinner, visit Harry & Izzy's, a locally-owned steakhouse that serves up some of the best steaks in the state. Don't forget to try their famous St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail alongside the juicy bone-in ribeye.

4. Battle Creek, MI

As you make your way through Michigan to Montgomery, make a stop in Battle Creek. Nestled in the center of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, this city is home to one of the most famous breakfast cereal companies in the world: Kellogg's. Visit the Kellogg's Company Store, where you can learn about the company's history and even customize your own cereal box.

If you're feeling hungry, grab some American-style food at Clara's on the River. This restaurant has been around since 1978 and serves comfort classics like meatloaf and prime rib.

5. Ann Arbor, MI

Last but not least, Ann Arbor, MI, is a bustling college town that strikes the perfect balance between fun and sophistication. The town is home to the University of Michigan, so there are plenty of sports games, art exhibits, and concerts to choose from year-round.

For a meal that's out of this world, Zingerman's Deli has been a favorite among locals since 1982. Their bread and pastries are baked fresh daily, and they're known for their Reuben sandwich.

Conclusion

As you can see, taking some detours along the way from Carrollton, Georgia, to Montgomery, Michigan, can offer plenty of unique and exciting attractions. With foodie pitstops, Civil War history, and scenic pedestrian bridges, you'll be thrilled to add these stops to your itinerary. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new – you may be surprised by how much you can discover while on the road.