Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Corolla, North Carolina to Orlando, Florida

Driving from Corolla, North Carolina to Orlando, Florida offers travelers a stunning road trip filled with diverse landscapes, charming towns and unexpected attractions. The route covers approximately 750 miles and takes around 12 hours to complete, making it an ideal journey for a weekend getaway or a longer road trip adventure. Along the way, there are numerous hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are worth a visit, providing a fascinating detour from the typical tourist stops.

One such halfway point is Summerton, SC, a small town located at the intersection of Interstate 95 and US Route 301, which offers a welcoming stop for travelers passing through. After exploring Summerton, there are several unexpected places along the rest of the route that are sure to surprise and delight any road tripper.

1. Roanoke Island, NC

Roanoke Island, situated on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, is a place of historical significance and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Roanoke Island Festival Park, which offers a glimpse into the 16th century with a replica ship, interactive exhibits, and a recreated settlement. For nature enthusiasts, the Elizabethan Gardens is a tranquil oasis boasting lush greenery, colorful blooms, and serene water features. When hunger strikes, indulging in fresh seafood is a must. The area is known for its delectable crab cakes, local oysters, and shrimp, which can be savored at waterfront restaurants overlooking the picturesque Roanoke Sound.

2. Beaufort, SC

Beaufort, South Carolina, is a charming coastal town renowned for its historic architecture and Southern hospitality. One of the highlights of the town is the Beaufort History Museum, housed in a former arsenal building, offering insight into the area's rich cultural heritage. The town's picturesque streets lined with antebellum homes and moss-draped oak trees are perfect for a leisurely stroll. For a taste of the Lowcountry culinary tradition, visitors can savor a classic Lowcountry boil, a flavorful combination of shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, and potatoes simmered in a spicy broth, at one of the local seafood shacks or restaurants.

3. Savannah, GA

Savannah, Georgia, is a city of enchanting squares, historic cobblestone streets, and grand mansions, making it a captivating stop on the drive south. Visitors can explore the city's storied history with a visit to the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, a National Historic Landmark offering insight into the lives of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked there. To savor the regional cuisine, indulging in a steaming bowl of shrimp and grits, a beloved Southern staple, at a local eatery is a must. Additionally, sampling Savannah's famous pralines, a sweet confection made with caramelized sugar, butter, and pecans, is a delightful way to satisfy a sweet tooth.

4. St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest city in the United States, known for its Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old fortresses. Visitors can explore the imposing Castillo de San Marcos, a well-preserved fortress that offers stunning views of the Matanzas River. For a taste of the local flavors, trying datil pepper-infused dishes, such as datil pepper chowder or datil pepper hot sauce, is a unique culinary experience that showcases the area's indigenous pepper. Refueling with a slice of datil pepper-spiced key lime pie, a delightful twist on the classic dessert, is the perfect way to round off a visit to this historic city.

5. Crystal River, FL

Crystal River, located on Florida's Nature Coast, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can embark on a thrilling underwater adventure by swimming with the resident manatees in the crystal-clear waters of Kings Bay. For those seeking a culinary treat, dining on freshly caught Gulf seafood is a must. From succulent stone crab claws to buttery Florida lobster tails, the local seafood scene offers an array of delectable dishes that celebrate the bounty of the sea.

Embarking on a road trip from Corolla, North Carolina to Orlando, Florida offers an unforgettable journey filled with surprising stops, off-the-beaten-path discoveries, and diverse culinary delights. Whether it's delving into history, savoring local flavors, or communing with nature, the unexpected places along this route promise to make the drive a memorable adventure. So, for those seeking a road trip that goes beyond the ordinary, this scenic drive presents an abundance of hidden gems waiting to be explored.