Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Indian Trail, North Carolina

If you’re planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Indian Trail, North Carolina, there are plenty of unexpected stops that you can make to break up the journey. The drive can take around 11 hours, and although it's an amazing adventure on its own, here are five must-see places to take a break and explore in between.

Halfway Point: Waverly, OH

Waverly is exactly the halfway point between Chicago, Illinois, and Indian Trail, North Carolina. This cozy town has several attractions that you should not miss, including Lake White State Park and the Waverly Emporium Flea Market. This charming town is a great place to walk around, grab a bite, and stretch your legs before continuing the journey.

1. Louisville, KY: The City of the Belle of Louisville

Louisville, KY, is a city packed with history and museums. The Muhammad Ali Center and Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory are both worth a visit. Additionally, the Belle of Louisville Riverboats on the Ohio River are a fascinating sight, especially when they pass through the city's downtown waterfront. Visitors can take a tour on board the Belle of Louisville or reserve it for a special occasion. The famous dish here is the Kentucky Hot Brown, an open-faced sandwich with turkey, Mornay sauce, bacon, and cheese served on thick bread.

2. Asheville, NC: The Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, NC, are another must-see on this road trip. This is the perfect destination for nature lovers or anyone who wants to admire the beauty of the mountain ranges. There are trails to hike with scenic views and a perfect place for an Instagram picture. To fully experience Asheville’s charm, visitors can visit the River Arts District, a neighborhood filled with galleries and eclectic artists. Asheville’s BBQ pork belly bao made with cherry glaze, slaw, Thai basil, and peanuts is a must-try!

3. Charleston, WV: Capitol Market

Charleston, WV, is known for the Capitol Market, which offers everything from fresh produce to artisan products. The market is set up in a renovated train station, so visitors can feel as if they have taken a step back in time. While in Charleston, locals recommend visiting the State Capitol and the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences. The city is famous for its pepperoni rolls that are baked in a soft roll and stuffed with spicy pepperoni and mozzarella cheese.

4. Nashville, TN: Country Music Hall of Fame

Nashville, TN, is every music lover’s dream - The Country Music Hall of Fame is here! Visitors can take a tour and see memorabilia from some of the greatest country musicians in history. The city is also home to The Grand Ole Opry, one of the best-known country music venues in the world. The Broadway area, in downtown Nashville, is filled with bars and restaurants playing live country music. Visitors can try the Nashville hot chicken, marinated for 24 hours before being dropped into a hot fryer and served with a side of coleslaw.

5. Gatlinburg, TN: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg, TN, is another destination for nature lovers along the road trip route. The park is filled with hiking trails and scenic routes to drive, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. Visitors can take a break from the outdoors and enjoy the magnificent views at the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle. The pancake breakfast here is a classic, and the variety of options is endless.

Conclusion

When planning a road trip, it’s always best to break up the drive with interesting stops along the way, and this journey from Chicago, IL, to Indian Trail, NC, takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in America. Travelers can expect to encounter unexpected and delightful sights throughout the journey. The halfway stop in Waverly, OH, is just the tip of the iceberg; each stop on the route is packed with unusual finds, tasty foods, and adventure. The journey is an unforgettable one, and a true bucket list experience for anyone who loves to hit the open road.