Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois and Columbia, South Carolina

Road trips can be a fantastic way to explore the country while enjoying the freedom of the open road. One such journey that is worth taking is a drive from Chicago, Illinois to Columbia, South Carolina. While the 770-mile drive takes about 12 hours, there are many unexpected places worth stopping to break the monotony and add more depth to your journey.

The halfway point of this route is Berea, KY, which lies 386 miles from Chicago and 382 miles from Columbia, SC. Berea is a charming town known as the crafts capital of Kentucky, featuring a unique art scene and historic buildings. But beyond this midpoint lies hidden gems in several destinations. Here are five unexpected places to visit on a drive from Chicago, Illinois, and Columbia, South Carolina.

1. St. Louis, Missouri (321 miles from Chicago, IL)

St. Louis is often overlooked and deemed too far west to visit, but this city offers so much that it's impossible to ignore. Visitors will marvel at its Gateway Arch, an iconic 630-foot monument that towers over the city. Another must-see is Forest Park, a 1,300-acre park that houses free attractions like the Saint Louis Art Museum, St. Louis Zoo, and Missouri History Museum.

Foodies will love the barbecue scene, where pork is king, and the sauce is tangy. Famous joints include Pappy's Smokehouse, Sugarfire Smokehouse, and Bogart's Smokehouse; all offer a variety of smoked meats and sides.

2. Louisville, Kentucky (399 miles from Chicago, IL)

Louisville, known for its bourbon culture and horse races, is a city worth exploring. Visitors should not miss the Kentucky Derby Museum and Churchill Downs racetrack, home of the famous races. The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is dedicated to baseball's history and includes an active production line that offers tours and hands-on exhibits.

For food enthusiasts, Louisville is the place to experience Southern comfort food that is sure to satisfy. Dishes range from succulent fried chicken to "Hot Brown," an open-faced turkey sandwich with plenty of toppings.

3. Asheville, North Carolina (376 miles from Columbia, SC)

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Shrouded in an artsy, quirky atmosphere, Asheville boasts a vibrant downtown filled with galleries, restaurants, and microbreweries. The Biltmore Estate, a grandiose mansion, is a must-see attraction with 250 rooms and extensive gardens.

The food scene in Asheville is innovative and fresh. The city is known for farm-to-table cuisine that highlights what's in season. Don't miss the chance to try dishes like wood-fired pizzas at All Souls Pizza or the locally sourced cuisine at Rhubarb.

4. Greenville, South Carolina (98 miles from Columbia, SC)

As the largest city in the Upstate region, Greenville is a hub of activity and natural beauty. The city boasts stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Reedy River runs through the downtown. Greenville's arts scene is impressive, with notable art museums, galleries, and theaters scattered throughout the city.

When in Greenville, visitors must try the barbecue at Henry's Smokehouse, which has won multiple awards. Other Southern classics like pimento cheese and fried pickles are also must-try dishes.

5. Lake Lure, North Carolina (team up with visit to Asheville)

Lake Lure is a picture-perfect town that should not be missed. The lake, with its crystal-clear waters, offers watersport activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. The surrounding mountains offer incredible hiking opportunities, including a scene from the classic movie Dirty Dancing, which was filmed in Lake Lure.

Food options in Lake Lure range from casual to unique fine-dining experiences. Make sure to visit the iconic Lake House Restaurant, a lakeside restaurant that serves up seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes.

Taking a road trip from Chicago, Illinois, and Columbia, South Carolina, is an eye-opening journey that spans many miles and destinations. Between the start and endpoint lies little treasures like St. Louis, Louisville, Asheville, Greenville, and Lake Lure, providing more opportunities for exploration, discovery, and enjoyment. Whether it's the food, the attractions, or the natural beauty, there's something for every type of traveler. So get ready to pack your bags, hit the open road, and engage in your next adventure.