Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cedar Crest, NM to Cypress, TX

Driving from Cedar Crest, New Mexico to Cypress, Texas is a long haul. The distance is approximately 880 miles and the trip takes roughly 13 hours to complete. During this time, there are many places to stop to take a break, grab a bite to eat, and explore something new.

The halfway point is Snyder, Texas. This is an ideal place to stop and stretch your legs. There are many great restaurants in the area to grab a bite to eat, and several parks to take a break from driving. If you're looking for something to do, the Scurry County Museum is located only a few miles away.

1. Shidler, Oklahoma (242 miles from Cedar Crest, NM) If you're looking for a quaint small town, Shidler, Oklahoma is the spot. The town has a population of only 441 and maintains its old-fashioned charm. The town's pride and joy is its numerous historic buildings, including the 1910 First National Bank, which has been preserved and restored. Down the street is the Shidler Masonic Lodge, which dates back to 1923. Be sure to stop by Hamburger King for lunch or a late-night snack.

Favorite food to eat: Cheeseburger and fries from Hamburger King.

2. Fort Smith, Arkansas (529 miles from Cedar Crest, NM) Fort Smith, Arkansas, has a long and fascinating history. Located on the banks of the Arkansas River, Fort Smith was established in 1817 and served as a major outpost for the U.S. Army. Today, the town is a great place to explore the past. Visitors can explore the Old Fort Museum and the Fort Smith National Historic Site. The town is also home to beautiful parks and gardens, including the Fort Smith Riverfront Trail System. For dinner, head to Calico County Restaurant for some of the best comfort food in the area.

Favorite food to eat: Chicken Fried Steak from Calico County Restaurant.

3. Muscle Shoals, Alabama (721 miles from Cedar Crest, NM) Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is a music lover's paradise. The town is known for its famous recording studios - Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and FAME Studios. The studios have recorded music from legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Etta James, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Visitors can take a tour of both studios and learn about the town's rich musical history. In addition to its music scene, Muscle Shoals has many fantastic restaurants to choose from. Be sure to stop by Bunyan's BBQ for a taste of authentic Alabama barbecue.

Favorite food to eat: Pulled Pork Sandwich from Bunyan's BBQ.

4. Vicksburg, Mississippi (741 miles from Cedar Crest, NM) Vicksburg, Mississippi is a town steeped in Civil War history. The town is home to the Vicksburg National Military Park, which commemorates the site of the Battle of Vicksburg in 1863. Visitors can explore the park, which includes a museum, a national cemetery, and the USS Cairo Museum. In addition to its historic sites, Vicksburg has many fantastic restaurants to choose from. Be sure to stop by Walnut Hills for some of the best southern home cooking in the area.

Favorite food to eat: Fried Chicken and Collard Greens from Walnut Hills.

5. Nacogdoches, Texas (806 miles from Cedar Crest, NM) Nacogdoches, Texas, is home to some of the most beautiful historic buildings in the state. The town's Old University Building has been beautifully restored and now houses the University of Texas at Tyler. The Sterne-Hoya House Museum and Library is another architectural gem, built in 1830 and 1840. Visitors can also explore the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden and the Mast Arboretum, which are located on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University. For dinner, head over to Auntie Pasta's for some delicious Italian food.

Favorite food to eat: Fettuccine Alfredo from Auntie Pasta's.

After traversing the 880-mile journey from Cedar Crest, NM to Cypress, TX, travelers will undoubtedly need a break. Luckily, there are many interesting and unexpected places to stop, rest, and explore along the way. The experiences gained in each of these unique locations will be unforgettable. So pack your bags and hit the road!