Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesapeake, Virginia to Millington, Tennessee

Have you ever taken a long road trip and thought about all of the hidden gems that you could be missing? If you're planning a drive from Chesapeake, Virginia to Millington, Tennessee, consider visiting these five unexpected places that you may have never heard of. The 1,100-mile journey takes approximately 17 hours with minimal stops, but if you take the time to visit these unique locations, you'll have an unforgettable experience.

Halfway Point: Greeneville, TN

Before we dive into the five unexpected places to visit, let's talk about the halfway point of the journey: Greeneville, TN. This town is located exactly halfway between Chesapeake and Millington, making it the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs. Apart from convenient rest stops, you can also visit the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, which honors the 17th President of the United States. There's also the Cherokee National Forest, where you can explore the great outdoors and enjoy nature at its finest.

1. Abingdon, VA: The Perfect Small Town

Abingdon, VA is a small town with a rich history and charm that is perfect for a mid-day stop. The town dates back to the 1700s and has preserved its history with great care. Abingdon's main attraction is the Virginia Creeper Trail, which is a 34-mile trail that once served as a railway line. It's perfect for a casual stroll or a bike ride. Once you're done, head to the Tavern Restaurant for some delicious Southern cuisine like country ham and biscuits.

2. Nashville, TN: More Than Just Music

When most people think of Nashville, they think of country music. However, there's more to the city than that. One of the highlights of Nashville is the Parthenon, which is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece. You can also visit the Belle Meade Plantation, which used to be a famous thoroughbred horse farm, or enjoy the delicious Nashville hot chicken at Prince's Hot Chicken Shack.

3. Louisville, KY: Bourbon and Baseball

Louisville, KY, is known for being the home of the Kentucky Derby, but it's also the perfect place for bourbon enthusiasts. The city is home to several distilleries, including Old Forester Distillery and Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. If baseball is more your thing, head to the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. Here, you can see how Louisville Slugger bats are made and even get your own customized bat.

4. Paducah, KY: Artistic Delight

Paducah, KY is a quaint little town that is rich in art and culture. The town has earned the title of being a UNESCO Creative City because of its support for creatives. The National Quilt Museum is a must-visit location for anyone interested in textiles, while the Paducah Riverwalk is a great spot for a relaxing stroll along the Ohio River. Don't miss out on the opportunity to try some meaty barbecue at Doe's Eat Place.

5. Hernando, MS: Blues City

Located just 20 miles south of Memphis, Hernando, MS is known as the "Blues City." Stop by the DeSoto County Museum to learn about the town's blues history and then head to Memphis BBQ Company for some mouth-watering ribs. You can also check out the Hernando Point Park, which is perfect for a picnic or a canoe ride.

After visiting all of these locations, you'll have experienced a range of cultures, history, and cuisine that you wouldn't have had the opportunity to otherwise. The best part is that all of them are just a short drive away from the main route. Don't miss out on the chance to discover these unforgettable and unexpected places.