Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, IL to Gatlinburg, TN
The drive from Chicago, Illinois to Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a long journey taking roughly 8 hours without traffic. The route will take you through five states and offer a myriad of scenic views along the way. Whether it's a solo adventure or a family vacation, the route offers unique and exciting places to stop on your journey. This article aims to showcase five unexpected places to stop on your drive from Chicago, IL, to Gatlinburg, TN.
1. Turkey Run State Park, Indiana
Located three hours south of Chicago in Indiana, Turkey Run State Park, one of Indiana's top state parks, is the perfect place to stretch your legs. The park features spectacular sandstone formations and deep gorges that provide challenging hiking trails. It is an excellent location to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Turkey Run State Park is a haven for adventurists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Turkey Run's famous Inn restaurant is located inside an early 20th-century lodge inside the park and serves delightful Midwest comfort food. The menu includes dishes like chicken pot pie, a pork tenderloin sandwich, and biscuits and gravy, making it an ideal location to have a meal amidst nature.
2. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Kentucky
As the halfway point between Chicago and Gatlinburg, Louisville is a city worth pausing in. At the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, you can see live demonstrations of the baseball bat making process and on some days, you can watch local artists handcraft unqiue bats. You will also get to see thousands of baseball memorabilia, including the world's most extensive collection of baseball bats.
Whenever you're in Louisville, it's essential to get a taste of the famous Louisville Hot Brown sandwich, and the Brown Hotel restaurant is the place to go for a hot brown sandwich that'll knock your socks off.
3. Cumberland Falls, Kentucky
Located in Corbin, Kentucky, Cumberland Falls is one of the few waterfalls in the world where you can see a moonbow, a nighttime rainbow that appears in the mist of the waterfall in the light of a full moon. The Cumberland River flows through the picturesque park, and you can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and horseback riding in the area.
Dupont's 100-year-old family BBQ recipe is a must-try when in Corbin. Their BBQ pork is slow-cooked for 24 hours and piled high on a bun, making it a flavorsome and memorable meal.
4. Cherokee Indian Reservation, North Carolina
The Cherokee Indian Reservation is a cultural masterpiece, complete with history, art, and an immersive Indian village experience. Visitors can learn about Cherokee culture through storytelling, dance performances, craft-making, and guided tours of the Oconaluftee Indian Village. It offers a perfect opportunity to learn more about North American indigenous cultures.
The reservation is also home to Paul's Diner, which is well-known for its mouth-watering Southern comfort food. Some of the meals offered include chicken and dumplings, green beans, and sweet potato pie.
5. Dolly Parton's Stampede, Tennessee
If you're hoping to experience the Wild West while on your drive, Dolly Parton's Stampede is an excellent spot for you. This dinner attraction offers an interactive experience with live animals, horses, and, of course, an action-packed show. Visitors are also treated to a four-course meal while they enjoy the entertainment.
No visit to Tennessee is complete without trying hot fried chicken. Prince's Hot Chicken Shack is the go-to location for hot and spicy chicken that will undoubtedly satisfy all of your cravings.
Conclusion
From breathtaking national parks to immersive cultural experiences, the drive from Chicago, Illinois, to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers something for everyone along its path. With unique attractions and unforgettable culinary experiences, you could plan your route around the ones that appeal most to your tastes. If you're looking for a road trip that has it all, a multi-state drive from Chicago to Gatlinburg should be high on your list.