Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Metairie, Louisiana

Introduction

Driving from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Metairie, Louisiana, can be a long and tiring journey; fortunately, there are some exciting places to stop along the way to help break up the monotony and add some adventure to the trip. The trip covers 900 miles and takes approximately 14 hours. The drive moves through various states, including Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas, before culminating in the great state of Louisiana.

Halfway Point: Jonesboro, Arkansas

Jonesboro, AR is the halfway point of this drive, which makes it the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs and refuel before starting the next leg of the trip. Jonesboro is a charming town that has a few fascinating attractions that visitors should check out. In addition, it provides a wide variety of dining experiences, making it an excellent place to sample local delicacies.

1. Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker Point), AR

One of the most remarkable attractions in Arkansas is Hawksbill Crag, also known as Whitaker Point, located in Ozark National Forest. The hike to reach it is just under 3 miles, but the view you receive of the Crag is worth the effort. This natural landmark is a unique formation that appears to jut out from the surrounding forest, providing an excellent photo opportunity for travelers.

Favorite food to eat: Cheeseburger at The Stone Mill Café

2. Memphis, TN

Memphis, TN, the largest of Tennessee's cities on the Mississippi River, sits approximately 140 miles south of Jonesboro and is a perfect stop for an overnight stay. Memphis is known for its colorful music history, and visitors should take the time to visit the iconic Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, and Johnny Cash cut their first tracks.

Favorite food to eat: Memphis-style BBQ at Charlie Vergos Rendezvous

3. Itta Bena, MS

Itta Bena, MS, located approximately 160 miles south of Memphis, is a small town with an illustrious past. This town is the birthplace of B.B. King, the "King of Blues," and offers visitors various activities, including the BB King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center. In the evening, visitors can indulge themselves with some live music at the nearby Ground Zero Blues Club.

Favorite food to eat: Fried catfish with hushpuppies at The Senator's Place

4. Natchez, MS

Approximately 80 miles south of Itta Bena lies Natchez, MS, a city with a rich history and hints of old-world charm. Visitors should explore Natchez's historic district, which features more than 1,000 historic buildings, including beautiful antebellum homes, for which Natchez is renowned.

Favorite food to eat: Crawfish Étouffée at Roux 61

5. Baton Rouge, LA

Baton Rouge, LA, the state capital of Louisiana, lies 127 miles south of Natchez and is the final stop. There are so many attractions to see in Baton Rouge, and a few hours are not enough to experience them all. Visitors should take a tour of the Louisiana State Capitol, walk through the Shaw Center for the Arts, and visit the USS Kidd, a famous WWII battleship that serves as a museum.

Favorite food to eat: Jambalaya at The Chimes East

Conclusion

Driving from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Metairie, Louisiana might be a long and tiring journey, but the five stops mentioned above can make it an exciting and unforgettable adventure. Along the way, travelers can experience a variety of attractions, from the natural beauty of Hawksbill Crag to the cultural richness of Baton Rouge. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and embark on this road trip to discover these hidden gems along the way.