Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Choctaw, Oklahoma and High Point, North Carolina

If you love road trips, then you'll be happy to take on a journey behind the wheel from Choctaw, Oklahoma, to High Point, North Carolina. The route covers a whopping 1,050 miles and takes approximately 17 hours non-stop, but why not break up the journey and find interesting places to stop in the middle? Wildersville, Tennessee, marks the halfway point, and there are plenty of hidden gems to discover all along the way.

Wildersville: The Halfway Point

Wildersville is where you cross the midpoint between Choctaw and High Point, and the perfect spot to rest and stretch your legs. This small town with around 350 residents, located in the Henderson County area, has a big heart. Head to the Mustang Sally's restaurant, grab something to eat, and take a self-guided historical tour, discovering landmarks that date back to the pre-Civil War era. You can also take a short hike at Beech Lake, a 138-acre recreational area with a sandy swimming beach, picnic pavilions, a playground and a public boat dock.

1. Little Rock, Arkansas

Nestled alongside the Arkansas River and home to several museums, galleries, and cultural landmarks, it's no surprise that Little Rock is a hit with tourists. The Clinton Presidential Library + Museum is located in downtown Little Rock, alongside several other notable attractions like the Central High School National Historic Site and the Little Rock Zoo, both ideal for families with children. Stop by the Root Cafe to enjoy fresh, organic food, or head to the Flyway Brewing Co for a sip of their latest craft brews and a tour of the place.

2. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is world-renowned for its music, but there's so much more to do here than attend a concert or a rally. Take a stroll down the Broadway strip and its neon lights, hopping from one bar to another, taste the local 'meat and three' cuisine, or if you're feeling brave, book a ghost tour of the city after sunset. Check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum or learn about Johnny Cash's life and legacy at the Johnny Cash Museum. Here, The Loveless Cafe, once a motel, and now a restaurant, serves tangy chicken in a delectable way that you can't resist.

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a charming and laid-back city known for the colorful art districts, breweries, and restaurants. Walk around the historic Biltmore Estate and Gardens, take in the views of the Appalachian Mountains, or have a picnic at the Pack Square Park. Indulge in Southern comfort foods at the Tupelo Honey Cafe, nibble on artisanal chocolates at the French Broad Chocolate Factory and taste some beer at Highland Brewing Company.

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the most visited national parks in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans 522,427 acres, with a variety of landscapes such as old-growth forests, waterfalls, and valleys. Activities for visitors include hiking, cycling, fishing, wildlife watching, and scenic drives. Picnics are allowed in designated spots throughout the park, so don't forget to pack your picnic basket. While in the area, be sure to visit The Park Grill, where they serve homemade bread and hearty grilled meats.

5. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

At the foot of the National Park mentioned above is the town of Gatlinburg. Known as the gateway to the park, Gatlinburg is a tourist hot spot with plenty of things to do, such as ride the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, browse the arts and crafts community, and take a moonshine tour. For a foodie fix, you can't miss the iconic pancake stacks smothered in syrup at the Pancake Pantry, a favorite among visitors for more than 60 years.

Taking the journey from Choctaw, Oklahoma to High Point, North Carolina, isn't just about reaching your destination. With all these pit stops in between, you'll discover interesting sights, taste new flavors, and make memories that will last a lifetime. It's time to hit the road!