Points of Interest between Chattanooga, Tennessee to Jacksonville, Florida

picture of Chattanooga, Tennessee

Roadtripping from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Jacksonville, Florida

Are you planning a road trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Jacksonville, Florida? Get ready for a fun adventure that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the southern United States. Here are some of the top places to visit on your journey.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that Chattanooga, Tennessee is home to the Tennessee Aquarium, which is one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world? Make sure to stop by and see it before you embark on your road trip.

Halfway Point: Unadilla, GA is located about halfway between Chattanooga and Jacksonville. It's a small town with a population of around 3,500 people. There are a few local restaurants and shops worth checking out if you need to take a quick break.

Length of the Trip: The total distance from Chattanooga to Jacksonville is approximately 458 miles and it takes around 7.5 hours to drive without any stops. Keep this in mind when planning your journey and make sure to take plenty of breaks along the way.

Top Five Places to Visit:

  1. Cloudland Canyon State Park (Rising Fawn, GA) - This beautiful state park has over 3,500 acres of stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls and canyons. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at camping or rock climbing. Don't miss out on the breathtaking views from the park's overlooks.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park's scenic spots.

  1. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (Folkston, GA) - If you're a wildlife lover, this is a must-visit destination. The refuge is home to alligators, black bears, and over 400 species of birds. You can take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the swampy waters on your own.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Make sure to bring your camera for this stop. You'll want to capture the unique and fascinating wildlife you'll see here.

  1. St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum (St. Augustine, FL) - This historic lighthouse dates back to 1874 and has been fully restored to its former glory. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the coast. The museum also has exhibits showcasing the history of the region's maritime industry.

Point of Interest Recommendation: If possible, plan to visit during a full moon when the museum offers twilight tours of the lighthouse grounds.

  1. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (St. Augustine, FL) - Another fascinating piece of history in St. Augustine is this Spanish fort that was built in the late 1600s. Visitors can explore the grounds which include a museum, watchtower, and many interactive exhibits detailing the fort's past.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Make sure to take the time to watch one of the daily cannon firings that take place on the fort's central lawn.

  1. Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens (Jacksonville, FL) - After a long road trip, what better way to relax than by strolling through a beautiful garden? The Cummer Museum has over 2.5 acres of gardens to explore, as well as a vast collection of art, including pieces from world-renowned artists.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Stop by the on-site restaurant for a delicious lunch or snack while you're enjoying the gardens.

Conclusion: The road trip from Chattanooga to Jacksonville may be long, but it's filled with plenty of opportunities to explore some of the most beautiful and historic parts of the southern United States. No matter what your interests are, there's something for everyone on this journey. Plan your stops carefully, take your time, and enjoy all the sights and sounds along the way.