words_gina shub and kelsey pinault.
Clearly evident in the mass number of students fist-pumping from the Grove to South Beach, it is clear that a large part of the student body at the University of Miami is from the Northeast. Although going to college far from mom and dad is exciting, the drive back for summer break definitely isn’t. So we decided to map out an entertaining stop in each state for the road-trip home. Happy driving!
Florida: Daytona Beach
You start your trip at the bottom of Florida and after a good five-hour drive you’ll find yourself with leg cramps and close to a great place to stop and stretch – Daytona Beach. Right along the East coast in Volusia County, Daytona Beach is perfect for a long or short stay. The biggest attraction in the area is the Daytona Pier, with delicious restaurants, a great deal of different water activities and a constant hotspot for young adult vacationers.
Daytona Beach:
1200 Main St
Daytona Beach, FL 32118
http://www.placesaroundflorida.com/Daytona_Beach_Florida/
Georgia: Hostel in the Forest
After driving up the coast for another three hours and crossing over into the territory of the Yellow Jackets and the Bulldogs, you might feel like you’re ready to call it a night. We suggest a stop in Brunswick for a stay in the unique Hostel in the Forest. Take exit 29 conveniently located right off of I-95. The mission of this hostel is to preserve, respect and work with the environment. Staying in a small house in the scenic forest, guests have the option of an array of activities such as canoeing or hiking. If this seems like a place you would be interested in staying in rather than your car or truck stop, then be sure to call and make a reservation.
Hostel in the Forest:
3901 US Highway 82
Brunswick, GA 31523
South Carolina: South of the Border
For over 60 years, South of the Border has caught the eye of travelers heading to and from local attractions in the area. With over 100 billboards on the interstate, it’s hard not to wonder what exactly South of the Border is. Complementing the Mexican theme of the attraction, there are six original Mexican restaurants and plenty of stores playing to theme as well, not to mention a list of fun attractions from Snake Lagoon to Pedroland, the local theme park.
South of the Border:
3346 Highway 301
North Dillon, SC 29547
North Carolina: World’s Largest Chest of Drawers
Whether or not you’re willing to admit it, the best part of any road trip is the assortment of random places you come across. After a stop in South Carolina where you filled up on Mexican delicacies, make a quick and free stop to see the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers. Built in the 1920’s by the High Point Chamber of Commerce, this attraction provides a perfect accent to the Home Furnishings Capital of the World- High Point, North Carolina.
World’s Largest Chest of Drawers:
508 North Hamilton St.,
High Point, NC 27262
http://www.carolina-north.com/worlds_largest_chest_drawers.html
Virginia: Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Mountains
By the time you make it to Virginia, you may be getting anxious to finally be home and won’t want to stop for anything. However, we can’t let you miss this beautiful state by passing it all by in a blur on the highway, so we have the perfect solution: Skyline Drive is a road stretching for 105 miles through the scenic mountains of Shenandoah National Park. For just a $15 entry fee, you can take a break from the highway and admire the beautiful colors and sights of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Shenandoah National Park:
3655 US Hwy 211
East, Luray, VA 22835
http://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/driving-skyline-drive.htm
Maryland: Six Flags America
Located too close to the highway to not enjoy is the Six Flags America theme park. Catch at least three of the craziest roller coasters, or make it an all day affair if you’re traveling home with a friend. There’s not much explanation needed for Six Flags, as almost everyone has been to an amusement park, but just in case, can you say over 50 rides and the best junk food ever?
Six Flags America:
13710 Central Avenue
Bowie/ Mitchellville, MD 20721
Delaware: Delaware Art Museum
To ensure the best road trip home ever, visit an art museum to throw some culture into the mix of attractions. The Delaware Art Museum has a vast amount of artwork with at least one collection for everyone to remember. Aiming to inspire people through the work shown, the museum is a non-profit art organization. Even better, it conveniently located near the highway so you don’t get too far off schedule.
Delaware Art Museum:
2301 Kentmere Parkway
Wilmington, Delaware 19806
Wherever you end up, turn that long day of driving into an exciting, two, three or four-day road-tripping adventure.
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