Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Sarasota, Florida

If you're looking for a fun and exciting road trip that takes you from the Midwest all the way down to the sunny south, driving from Chicago, Illinois to Sarasota, Florida could be just the adventure you need. This journey spans over 1,100 miles and takes roughly 17 hours to complete, and there are plenty of unexpected places along the way that you can stop and explore. Here are five of our favorite stops that you should consider making.

1. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville, Kentucky is a city that's full of surprises and well worth a visit. Here you can take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the scenic views of the Ohio River, check out a baseball game at the beautiful Louisville Slugger Field, or visit the Muhammad Ali Center to learn about the life of one of the greatest boxers of all-time. Lastly, you should try the famous Louisville Hot Brown sandwich, a local specialty consisting of turkey, bacon, and a creamy sauce.

2. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is a quaint mountain town that's home to many outdoor activities. Stop by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and hike a trail or relax by the river. Pigeon Forge also features numerous attractions such as Dolly Parton's Stampede and the Titanic Museum Attraction. Don't leave without trying the local apple butter.

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina is known for its arts and crafts, so be sure to check out the River Arts District where you'll find over 200 artists' studios. Downtown Asheville is a great place for shopping, dining, and exploring. The Biltmore Estate, America's largest residential home, is also located here and it's a must-see attraction. You can also try the famous Asheville Beer Cheese.

4. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia is a charming coastal city that's rich in history. Take a stroll on cobblestone streets under Spanish Moss that drapes the trees, visit one of the many historic squares like Forsyth Park, and take a ghost tour to learn about the city's spooky past. Try the famous Chatham Artillery Punch, a blend of rum, brandy, champagne, and tea.

5. St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest city in the United States and a fascinating place to visit. You can tour the historic Castillo de San Marcos, visit the Lightner Museum, or take a scenic boat ride on the Intracoastal Waterway. Make sure to taste the famous Datil pepper sauce while you're here, which is used to season many local dishes.

With so much to see and explore on this drive from Chicago to Sarasota, it's impossible to see it all in one trip. But by making stops like these, you can break up the drive and enjoy some unexpected sights and experiences. So if you're looking for a fun and exciting road trip, consider taking this route and exploring all of these unique destinations.