Aussies doing 9-day road trip from Cincinnati-Orlando

Question

Hiya, we are an Aussie mum and daughter planning a road trip in July staring in Cincinnati and ending in Florida. We have 9 days to get from Cincinnati to Orlando and have NO IDEA where to start in planning places to visit. Things we like:

• Country scenery / views (not hiking, just taking in the scenery)

• Small quaint towns

• Shopping / cafes / good food / thrift stores / vintage shops

• Cities ok but not for the whole duration, prefer a mix of small towns

• Avoiding freeways

We would love any suggestions, it's a bit daunting knowing where to begin.....

Answer

Sounds like a fantastic trip! With 9 days to travel from Cincinnati to Orlando, you have plenty of time to explore some charming small towns, enjoy scenic views, and discover quirky cafes and vintage shops along the way. Here’s a suggestion for your road trip itinerary that aligns with your interests of country scenery, quaint towns, and avoiding freeways:

Day 1-2: Cincinnati, OH to Lexington, KY
Start your trip in Cincinnati, known for its historic architecture and great food scene. After a day of exploring, head south to Lexington, KY (about 1.5 hours). This city is known for its horse farms, beautiful country views, and small-town charm.

Things to do: Take a scenic drive through Kentucky’s horse country, visit the Kentucky Horse Park, or enjoy a leisurely stroll around Lexington’s historic district. Stop at some of the local cafes and thrift shops for a quaint experience.
Food and Shopping: Lexington has plenty of boutique shops and charming cafes. Check out the Lexington Farmers Market or head to the local shops for vintage finds.

Day 3: Lexington, KY to Louisville, KY
Next, head west to Louisville (about 1.5 hours). While it’s a city, Louisville still has a laid-back vibe with great local charm.

Things to do: Visit the historic district, explore the Bourbon Trail (even if you’re not into spirits, it’s still a scenic route!), and check out the quirky neighborhoods like NuLu for art galleries and vintage stores.
Food and Shopping: Louisville has a thriving food scene. Enjoy a meal at one of the local cafes, and make sure to stop by the Louisville Flea Market for unique finds.

Day 4-5: Louisville, KY to Nashville, TN
From Louisville, drive south to Nashville (about 3 hours), taking scenic backroads when possible.

Things to do: While Nashville is a larger city, it’s packed with character. Explore the country music history, visit the Nashville Farmers Market, and take in some great live music at one of the many venues.
Food and Shopping: Nashville is known for its hot chicken and Southern cuisine. You’ll also find plenty of vintage shops, cafes, and music-related stores in the downtown area.

Day 6-7: Nashville, TN to Chattanooga, TN
Head southeast to Chattanooga (about 2 hours), a small city that’s surrounded by beautiful mountain views. It’s perfect for a relaxed stop with scenic views without the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Things to do: Visit Lookout Mountain, take a scenic ride on the Incline Railway, or explore the charming downtown area. Chattanooga is known for its creative arts scene, so check out some local galleries or visit the famous 4th Street for local boutiques and cafes.
Food and Shopping: You’ll find plenty of cafes with great Southern food, and there are great vintage shops in the downtown area.

Day 8: Chattanooga, TN to Gainesville, FL
Drive down to Gainesville (about 4.5 hours). Gainesville offers a great mix of small-town charm and scenic views. While the city itself is small, it has a lot to offer in terms of local culture and natural beauty.

Things to do: Visit the beautiful Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, explore the historic district, and check out the local art scene.
Food and Shopping: Gainesville has a laid-back vibe with great local cafes, small shops, and vintage stores.

Day 9: Gainesville, FL to Orlando, FL
On your final day, drive from Gainesville to Orlando (about 2 hours). If you have extra time, stop at one of the small towns along the way, such as Winter Park, which is known for its scenic lakes, local shops, and dining options.

Things to do: Explore downtown Orlando for some local shopping or head to Winter Park for a scenic stroll. If you’re interested in more nature, stop by one of the nearby parks or lakes.
Food and Shopping: Orlando offers great dining options, especially around Winter Park with its local cafes and boutique stores.

General Tips:

Country Scenery: Whenever possible, opt for backroads or scenic byways. In particular, the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Natchez Trace Parkway offer amazing views.
Small Towns: Make sure to include stops in towns like Franklin, TN; or Madison, GA, which are perfect for charming streets and small-town vibes.
Avoiding Freeways: Google Maps allows you to avoid highways and freeways by selecting the “Avoid Highways” option when planning your route.

This itinerary offers a good balance of small-town charm, scenic country views, and plenty of opportunities for food, shopping, and thrift stores. Enjoy your trip! Let me know if you’d like further details or other suggestions for your road trip.