Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Checotah, Oklahoma to Tuscaloosa, Alabama
If you are looking for an adventurous road trip that takes you through small towns and historic sites, then the drive from Checotah, Oklahoma to Tuscaloosa, Alabama is the perfect route for you. This 540-mile journey is best traveled over two days, with an overnight stay in Palestine, Arkansas. From the forest-covered hills of the Ozarks to the alluvial plains of the Mississippi Delta and the Civil Rights landmarks of Alabama, this drive provides a glimpse of Americana that you don't get on the interstate.
Palestine, AR: The Halfway Point
Palestine, AR, located at the halfway point of the drive, is a small town with a big history. Founded in 1873, Palestine was a center of agriculture and commerce in the region. Today, it's a quiet town with a few restaurants, gas stations, and shops that cater to travelers. It's the perfect place to stop and grab a bite to eat, stretch your legs, and explore the town's unique history.
1. Clarksdale, MS: The Birthplace of the Blues
Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Clarksdale is a mecca for music lovers. It was here that Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Ike Turner, and many other blues legends got their start. Visitors can explore the Delta Blues Museum, visit the Ground Zero Blues Club, and take a tour of the town's many historic landmarks. Be sure to try the BBQ at Abe's Bar-B-Q, the oldest BBQ restaurant in Mississippi.
2. Helena, AR: Where the Mississippi Meets the Delta
Helena, AR, is a river town with a rich history. It was a key site during the Civil War, and the town's historic district includes the Phillips County Museum, the Confederate Cemetery, and the Delta Cultural Center, which features exhibits on the region's music, history, and culture. Be sure to try the tamales at Rhoda's Famous Hot Tamales, a local delicacy that has been a staple of Helena's food scene for over 50 years.
3. Eutaw, AL: Step Back in Time
Eutaw, AL, is a town that has managed to preserve its small-town charm and antebellum architecture. Visitors can tour the Kirkwood Mansion, one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the South, or take a stroll through the historic downtown district. Be sure to try the fried chicken at Clinton's Bar-B-Q, a local institution that has been serving up delicious southern cuisine for over 50 years.
4. Selma, AL: Fighting for Civil Rights
Selma, AL, is a town that played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. Visitors can explore the Edmund Pettus Bridge, where civil rights marchers were beaten by state troopers in 1965, or visit the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute, which features exhibits on the struggle for voting rights in America. Be sure to try the catfish at Lannie's Bar-B-Q Spot, a local favorite that serves up some of the best catfish in Alabama.
5. Tuscaloosa, AL: Roll Tide!
Tuscaloosa, AL, is home to the University of Alabama and is a town that bleeds crimson and white. Visitors can explore the university campus, which features some of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the South, or take a stroll through the downtown district, which is filled with restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Be sure to try the BBQ at Full Moon Bar-B-Que, a local chain that has been serving up delicious BBQ since 1986.
Conclusion
The drive from Checotah, Oklahoma to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is a journey that takes you through the heart of America. From the birthplace of the blues to the sites of the Civil Rights Movement, this journey is a reminder of our country's rich history and cultural heritage. So why not pack your bags, hit the road, and explore these unexpected places for yourself? Who knows what adventures you might find along the way.