Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from City of Lockport, New York and Destin, Florida

Driving from City of Lockport, New York, to Destin, Florida, can be a long journey. On the road, you will come across breathtaking scenery, different cultures, and exciting attractions that can make your road trip memorable. The trip takes approximately 21 hours and spans a distance of about 1370 miles. Along the way, you will find towns full of rich history and culture, stunning parks, and delicious cuisine. This article will highlight five unexpected places to stop, including Glendale, KY, which is the halfway point.

Glendale, KY - Halfway Point

Glendale is a small town located in central Kentucky that is rich in history and is an ideal stop to stretch your legs. The town has a unique personality and is famous for several festivals celebrating its heritage and history. You can visit several antique shops located downtown, tour the jewelry store museum, or explore the National Register Historic District. Visitors should take a stroll through the historic downtown where buildings dating back to the 1800s still stand. Additionally, you can indulge in the Slab Fried Chicken, a famous dish in Glendale served at the Whistle Stop Restaurant.

1. Chimney Rock State Park, NC

Located in the western part of North Carolina, Chimney Rock State Park is a beautiful park that every road tripper should visit. The park prides itself on being one of the best bird-watching destinations in the state. You can also ascend to the top of the Chimney Rock to take in stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and try rock climbing. Afterward, you can explore the park's nature trails, including Hickory Nut Falls trail, which leads to a stunning 404-foot waterfall. The Old Rock Café, located inside the park, serves delicious homemade chili and sandwiches.

2. Savannah, GA

The coastal city of Savannah, Georgia, is known for its rich history, culture, and architecturally stunning buildings. Visitors should take a stroll through the charming downtown district, known for its picturesque squares and antique shops. You can also visit the world-renowned Forsyth Park, which features a stunning fountain, historic monuments, and breathtaking canopies of live oak trees. The city's signature dish is shrimp and grits, which can be found in nearly every restaurant, with The Olde Pink House being a favorite among visitors.

3. New Orleans, LA

Known as the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans is a city full of energy, color, and unique cuisine. You can explore the French Quarter, which is home to world famous restaurants, boutiques, and shops. Visitors should make a stop at Cafe Du Monde, where they can indulge in its famous beignets and café au lait. The National WWII Museum is also located in New Orleans, which honors the contributions and sacrifices of American soldiers during World War II.

4. Mobile, AL

Mobile, Alabama, may not be as popular as New Orleans but it has an interesting history and is worth a visit. The city is home to the USS Alabama, a World War II-era battleship that is open to visitors. You can also visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception or take a stroll at the Bellingrath Gardens, which features a vast array of horticulture situated along the Fowl River. Visitors can also get a taste of the South at local favorites like Wintzell's Oyster House, and try some of the best seafood in the area.

5. Destin, FL

The final stop on this road trip is Destin, located in Panhandle Florida, known for its white sand beaches and emerald waters. Visitors can spend a relaxing day at Henderson Beach State Park, which boasts a vast expanse of stunning beaches, nature trails, and picnic areas. HarborWalk Village is also a popular destination, where visitors can explore unique shops and restaurants, or take a dolphin-watching cruise. Seafood is one of the most iconic cuisines in Destin, with Pompano Joe's being one of the top restaurants in the area.

Conclusion

Driving from City of Lockport, New York to Destin, Florida, may seem overwhelming. However, taking your time to explore the areas along the way can make the trip enjoyable and memorable. The five unexpected places mentioned above offer exquisite scenery, unique attractions, and delicious cuisine. Therefore, it's worth taking a detour and embarking on a remarkable adventure.