Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chattahoochee County, Georgia and Starkville, Mississippi
If you enjoy road trips, you'll know that the journey is often as good as the end destination. Whether you're travelling alone or with a group of friends or family, there's a lot to be said about hitting the road and letting the world unfold before you. If you're driving between Chattahoochee County, Georgia, and Starkville, Mississippi, make sure to take the time to stop off at some of the many interesting and unexpected places that lie along the way. The journey is only 300 miles, so with a bit of planning and sufficient breaks, you can complete the journey in around six hours.
Maplesville, AL: The Halfway Point
Maplesville, AL, is a small town in Chilton County, Alabama, situated about halfway between Chattahoochee County, Georgia, and Starkville, Mississippi. The town is home to just over 700 residents and covers an area of approximately 4.8 square miles. If you're looking for a place to stop off, stretch your legs, and grab a bite to eat, you won't be disappointed in Maplesville. Some of the best places to eat in town include Jim's BBQ, which is known for its mouth-watering pulled pork and ribs, and the Maplesville Café, which serves up hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, salads, and soups.
1. Red's Little Schoolhouse, Grady, Alabama
About an hour southwest of Maplesville lies Grady, Alabama, home to Red's Little Schoolhouse. This quaint old schoolhouse has been transformed into a charming restaurant that serves up Southern classics such as fried chicken, black-eyed peas, collard greens, and cornbread. It's also a popular spot for breakfast, with the fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon being particular favorites. Red's Little Schoolhouse is a great place to stop off if you're looking to experience a little piece of Alabama's history and indulge in some delicious Southern-style cooking.
2. Fort Toulouse-Jackson State Park, Wetumpka, Alabama
Fort Toulouse-Jackson State Park is located just outside Wetumpka, Alabama, and covers an area of around 1,000 acres. The park is a living history site that commemorates the French colonial presence in the area during the 1700s. Visitors to the park can explore the reconstructed fort, visit the museum, and even participate in living history events. The park is also home to a boat ramp, a fishing pier, and several picnic areas. If you're interested in history, nature, and the great outdoors, Fort Toulouse-Jackson State Park is definitely worth a visit.
3. Chewacla State Park, Auburn, Alabama
Chewacla State Park is situated on the outskirts of Auburn, Alabama, and covers an area of around 696 acres. The park features a 26-acre lake, several hiking trails, and a campground with 36 sites. Visitors to the park can rent paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes, or swim and fish in the lake. The park is also home to several picnic areas, a playground, and a pavilion, making it an ideal spot for families. If you're looking to stretch your legs and get some fresh air, Chewacla State Park is a beautiful and peaceful place to do it.
4. The Hotel Magnolia, Foley, Alabama
The Hotel Magnolia is located in Foley, Alabama, and is one of the most unique and unexpected places to stay along this route. The hotel is housed in a restored 1920s building and features 10 individually decorated rooms, each of which is named after a Southern writer. The hotel also has its own wine bar, which offers an extensive selection of both local and international wines. If you're looking for a place to stay that's full of character and charm, The Hotel Magnolia is definitely worth checking out.
5. The Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar, Perdido Key, Florida
The Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar is located in Perdido Key, Florida, just a stone's throw from the Alabama state line. The bar has been around since 1964 and has become something of a Gulf Coast institution. The Flora-Bama is famous for its live music, which plays almost every day of the week, as well as its oyster bar, which serves up some of the freshest and tastiest oysters around. If you're looking for a place to unwind, enjoy some good music, and tuck into some delicious seafood, The Flora-Bama is the place to be.
Conclusion
If you're planning a road trip between Chattahoochee County, Georgia, and Starkville, Mississippi, be sure to take the time to explore some of the unexpected places along the way. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply want to indulge in some delicious Southern-style cooking, there's something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the adventure begin!