Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlotte, NC to Hunter's Creek, FL

Driving from Charlotte, North Carolina to Hunter's Creek, Florida may not seem like the most exciting or captivating road trip. However, even the most mundane road trips can hold hidden gems and exciting new experiences. This route will take approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes with a distance of around 595 miles. But, if you're willing to take a few detours along the way, you may find some unexpected and fascinating places to explore. Below are five unexpected places to stop during this drive that are worth a visit.

Midway, GA

Midway, GA is a small coastal town and a halfway point between Charlotte, NC and Hunter's Creek, FL. At this point, you may feel like you've been in the car forever and may need a break. Midway, GA is a small town rich in history with a population of roughly 2,000 people. The town was established in 1752 and has since played a significant role in the American Revolution and the Civil War. Visitors can take a scenic walk through the historic district with a self-guided tour of the Old Midway Museum. Besides history, the town has a lot of natural beauty to admire. The Midway Museum Complex has a lovely wildlife exhibit with displays that showcase local animals, flora, fauna, and even a live beehive. The complex also houses the historic Midway church, which had an essential role in the Civil Rights Movement. Visitors can stop by the Midway Gallery and see local artists' works and souvenirs to remember their Midway experience.

Favorite meal in Midway, GA: For a lunch spot with delightful southern cuisine, the Sunbury Crab Co Restaurant is a must-visit. This seafood restaurant is situated on the water, offering stunning waterfront views. They have a diverse menu with fresh seafood, including delicious crab cakes and shrimp salad.

Caw Caw Interpretive Center, SC

Just south of Raleigh, North Carolina, the swamps turn into a birdwatchers' paradise. The Caw Caw Interpretive Center in Ravenel, South Carolina, is a nature preserve that explores the cypress-tupelo swamps and the former rice fields of the Lowcountry. The center is situated on 654 acres with walking trails, boardwalks, and a mural guide that leads visitors through the area's history. The center has a lovely naturalist-led tour for more in-depth information. Some of the wildlife you may find includes alligators, otters, eagles, ospreys, and more.

Favorite meal in the Caw Caw Interpretive Center: Crave Kitchen & Cocktails in Mount Pleasant is an excellent dinner spot for anyone. Their menu features a variety of options, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. If you're looking for a great cocktail, this is the spot.

Angel Oak Tree, SC

The Angel Oak Tree is a must-see destination, located in John's Island, South Carolina. This 400-year-old southern live oak tree is awe-inspiring and a formidable example of nature's beauty. It reaches over 65 feet tall, with a trunk circumference of over 28 feet, and its branches stretching over 187 feet. The park has a pleasant walking trail to explore the area around the tree. The area around the tree is perfect for a picnic or a relaxing break from the road.

Favorite meal at the Angel Oak Tree: Hungry for some seafood? Stop by Roadside Seafood, located in Charleston. They offer fresh seafood and favorites such as lobster rolls, fish tacos and, even po' boys.

Jekyll Island, GA

Jekyll Island located on Georgia's coast, is an incredible and relaxing stop on this journey. The island has a rich history and was once a vacation destination for millionaires such as the Rockefeller and Vanderbilt families. The island has evolved into a pristine state park and is also home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore Driftwood Beach, a unique beach full of sun-bleached trees and driftwood. Stop by the Georgia Sea Turtle Center to learn more about sea turtles and their love for the Jekyll Island beach. For a more historic tour, visitors can take the historic district trolley tour, a 90-minute tour of the island's history.

Favorite meal on Jekyll Island: For a perfect romantic dinner, stop by the Wharf Restaurant. This quaint seafood restaurant located on the Jekyll River. It offers a variety of fresh seafood and meat dishes, including the 'catch of the day.'

St. Augustine, FL

Lastly, but certainly not least, stop by St. Augustine, Florida, located 45 minutes from Hunter's Creek, Florida. It's known for its Old Florida charm combined with a rich history. St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States with an impressive array of cultural sites. Visitors can explore the magnificent Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort built by Spanish explorers. Take a stroll through the oldest masonry fort in the US, the Fort Matanzas National Monument. Take a walk along the St. Augustine beaches and soak up the sun, or take a stroll on the city's historic district or visit the iconic lighthouse.

Favorite meal in St. Augustine: For a delicious lunch near the lighthouse, stop by the Conch House Restaurant. The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, including conch fritters and shrimp dishes.

Conclusion

The drive from Charlotte, North Carolina to Hunter's Creek, Florida, may not seem like the most pleasant drive. But, the journey is always more exciting than the destination. With this road trip, take a few detours and enjoy hidden gems along the way. Take in the history of Midway, GA, encounter wildlife at the Caw Caw Interpretive Center, see the beauty of the Angel Oak Tree, relax on Jekyll Island, and immerse yourself in the oldest city in the US, St. Augustine. The trip is worth it for the beautiful scenery, delicious food and unexpected places to visit along the way.