Interesting different place to stop?

Question

We are driving from Sarasota FL to Asheville NC, which we have done many times. We want to stop part way there, somewhere kinda cool and interesting? We have been to Savannah and Charleston, and Athens, and of course Atlanta. Looking for a decent hotel, and maybe a nice smallish town? Or nature-y place? Or an especially cool restaurant? Not too far off the route?

Anyone have any ideas?

Edited: 1 year ago

Answer

If you’re looking for a unique and interesting stop on your road trip from Sarasota to Asheville, there are several great places to consider that are a bit off the beaten path, but still relatively close to your route. Since you’ve already explored cities like Savannah, Charleston, Athens, and Atlanta, here are a few cool, small towns, nature spots, and quirky attractions to consider for your stopover:

Blue Ridge, Georgia: Located in the North Georgia mountains, Blue Ridge offers a charming small-town atmosphere with an artsy vibe. You can explore the downtown area with its local shops, art galleries, and cafes. It’s also close to nature spots like Lake Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Trail. If you’re into nature, there are plenty of hiking options, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks to enjoy. There are some lovely boutique hotels here as well, like the Blue Ridge Inn.
Helen, Georgia: A Bavarian-inspired town nestled in the North Georgia mountains, Helen is a quirky, fun place to visit. Known for its alpine architecture, it offers scenic views, unique shops, and delicious German cuisine. It’s a great place to walk around and relax for a day. The surrounding area also offers great hiking and outdoor activities. You can stay in one of the town's cozy inns, such as the Helendorf River Inn.
Lake Hartwell, Georgia/South Carolina: Situated along the Georgia-South Carolina border, Lake Hartwell is a large reservoir with opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. There are a few small towns around the lake, like Hartwell, where you can find lakeside restaurants and a quiet, nature-filled experience. This stop offers a peaceful retreat with views of the water and mountains. Consider staying at a lakeside cabin or a nearby hotel like the Hampton Inn Hartwell.
Greenville, South Carolina: If you haven't been to Greenville, this up-and-coming city is a wonderful blend of nature and urban charm. The downtown area features a beautiful park with waterfalls (Falls Park on the Reedy), walking trails, and lots of local restaurants and boutiques. Greenville has a fantastic food scene, with eateries like The Lazy Goat and Soby’s offering delicious options. The Swamp Rabbit Trail is perfect for a scenic bike ride or walk. Hotels like the Aloft Greenville or the Hyatt Place offer comfortable stays in the heart of the action.
Montgomery, Alabama: A bit off the route but worth a detour if you're looking for a mix of history and culture, Montgomery has some significant Civil Rights landmarks, like the Rosa Parks Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. If you're interested in history, this stop offers plenty to explore. There are also some great dining options, such as Central, which offers a modern take on Southern cuisine.

These are just a few suggestions for an interesting stopover. Each of these towns and nature spots offers a unique charm, and they provide an opportunity to enjoy small-town character, history, or nature, while also being not too far off your main route to Asheville.