Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Columbia, Missouri to Douglasville, Georgia
Overview
Highway Handbook - Embarking on a road trip from Columbia, Missouri to Douglasville, Georgia is an adventure packed with scenic beauty and captivating landmarks. This 705-mile journey takes road trippers through six states, providing a glimpse into the heart of America. Before reaching the final destination, Cadiz, Kentucky serves as the perfect midway point, offering a much-needed break.
Top Five Things to Do
Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Immerse in Nature's Majesty
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park awaits travelers along this scenic road trip. Stretching across Tennessee and North Carolina, this natural wonder is teeming with breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless recreational activities. Visitors can hike the numerous trails, witnessing cascading waterfalls, vibrant wildflowers, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Don't forget to snap a photo at Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park.
- Interesting Fact: Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting more than 12.5 million visitors each year.
Discovering the Music Heritage of Nashville, Tennessee
Melodies and Memories Await
Nashville, the heart of Tennessee, envelops travelers with its vibrant music scene and rich cultural heritage. Known as "Music City," this destination offers a myriad of attractions, including the iconic Grand Ole Opry, where country music legends grace the stage. History buffs can explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, housing precious artifacts and exhibits celebrating the genre's past. Don't miss the chance to stroll down Broadway, lined with honky-tonks and live music venues.
- Interesting Fact: Nashville's Music Row is home to more than 180 recording studios, making it a nucleus for the American music industry.
Reliving the Past in Atlanta, Georgia
Historical Marvels Beckon
With its rich history, Atlanta, Georgia provides a captivating glimpse into the past. Visit Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, where the civil rights leader grew up and preached, to learn about his profound impact on American history. The Atlanta History Center showcases Southern history through various museums and gardens, including the renowned Swan House. Marvel at the engineering marvel that is the Atlanta BeltLine, a multi-use trail built on repurposed railroad tracks.
- Interesting Fact: Atlanta is the birthplace of Coca-Cola, first invented by pharmacist John Pemberton in 1886.
Savoring Southern Charm in Savannah, Georgia
Romanticized Beauty
Savannah, Georgia enchants visitors with its southern charm, elegant architectural marvels, and romantic ambiance. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Historic District, lined with magnificent antebellum mansions and oak-shaded squares. Explore Forsyth Park, adorned with stunning fountains and blooming gardens. Don't miss out on the city's rich food scene, indulging in classic Southern cuisine at one of Savannah's renowned restaurants.
- Interesting Fact: Savannah is known as "America's Most Haunted City," with numerous ghost stories and haunted locations throughout the town.
Unwinding at the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
A Haven for Wildlife
Nature lovers will find solace at the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, spanning over 29,000 acres of protected land. Located just outside of Savannah, this refuge provides a sanctuary for migratory birds, alligators, deer, and countless other species. Hiking trails and scenic drives offer an up-close encounter with the area's natural wonders, from marshes to bottomland swamps. Don't forget binoculars to spot the diverse bird population that thrives within the refuge.
- Interesting Fact: The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1927, making it one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the United States.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this road trip from Columbia, Missouri to Douglasville, Georgia encompasses the heart of America and captivates travelers with its diverse attractions. From the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains to the vibrant music scene of Nashville and the rich history of Atlanta, this journey is one not to be missed. Taking approximately 12 to 14 hours, this 705-mile adventure offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and natural marvels. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and embark on a memorable road trip that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the wonders of the United States.