Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive From Chapel Hill, North Carolina and Fort Myers, Florida

Looking for a fun and exciting road trip that takes you from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Fort Myers, Florida? This drive is full of incredible sights, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences. Here, you'll find a list of five unexpected places to stop along the way, giving you a well-deserved break from the long drive and adding some excitement to your journey.

The drive from Chapel Hill to Fort Myers is about 860 miles long and takes approximately 12-14 hours, depending on how often you stop. The best route to take is the I-95 South for most of the way before taking the I-10 West towards Florida. One of the highlights of this journey is the halfway point: Darien, GA, a charming town with a lot of history and character. Keep reading to discover more unexpected places to visit along the way.

1. Newbern, North Carolina (245 miles from Chapel Hill)

If you're looking for a glimpse into small-town America, then Newbern should be your first stop. This tiny town is home to just under 100 people, but it's full of life and character. You can take a stroll down the main street, check out the local shops which feature handmade crafts and pottery, or visit the famous 'NewBern Firemen's Museum'. Be sure to try the signature BBQ plate, topped with vinegar-based sauce for a true taste of the south.

2. Jekyll Island, Georgia (370 miles from Chapel Hill)

Jekyll Island is one of Georgia's hidden gems, boasting beautiful beaches, nature trails and stunning sunsets. The island is home to the 'Historic District,' once the winter retreat destination for some of America's wealthiest families, including Rockefeller and Vanderbilt. Today, the area is open to the public, where you can walk along the coast or take a guided tour through the stunning Victorian architecture. Don't leave without trying a classic 'Georgia Peach Cobbler', best served at the Jekyll Island Club's Grand Dining Room.

3. Gainesville, Florida (549 miles from Chapel Hill)

Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is a college town that's full of energy and culture. This city is famous for 'Devils Millhopper Geological State Park' which features a 100ft deep pit that leads to several caves and trails with streams and waterfalls. If you're looking for something a bit more laid back, explore the unique and quirky downtown, packed full of coffee shops, record stores, and art galleries. You can't visit Gainesville without trying a traditional Cuban sandwich from 'La Tienda Latina.'

4. Valdosta, Georgia (712 miles from Chapel Hill)

Valdosta, known as the 'Azalea City,' holds a reputation as one of Georgia's most beautiful towns. Bask in the Garden Center's 35-acres of stunning gardens and wildlife, or head downtown to experience the unique selection of shops and restaurants. Don't miss out on 'The Bleu Cafe,' where you can get a delicious salmon BLT sandwich, known to be the best in all of Valdosta.

5. Everglades City, Florida (850 miles from Chapel Hill)

As you approach the end of your journey, make a stop at Everglades City, known for its slow-paced and charming way of life. This quirky village is the gateway to Everglades National Park, which offers boat tours where you can see alligators and other wildlife. When you're in town, be sure to check out 'The Oyster House Restaurant' which features locally caught seafood from the nearby mangroves.

Conclusion

If you're looking for an exciting and unforgettable road trip that you'll always remember, then look no further than Chapel Hill to Fort Myers. This 12-14 hour journey will take you through some of the most incredible sights in coastal America. Make sure to stop at the unexpected places mentioned above for an extra special experience along the way. Whether you're eating classic Cuban sandwiches in Gainesville, Georgia Peach Cobbler in Jekyll Island or exploring the Victorian architecture in the Historic District, Darien, and the Azalea City, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack your bags, fill up your car, and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime.