Cincinnati to Atlanta drive: 24 ranked stops, break in London

wrapped in The Battery — a year-round dining-and-music district that changed the ballpark model

A 65-acre living-history farm and village combines 35 log structures, barns, churches, schools, gardens, and animals with three exhibit buildings of Appalachian folk art, instruments, quilts, and everyday objects. Budget at least 90 minutes.

Michelin-noted north Gay Street deli serving Eastern European and Jewish fare like lox bialys, matzoh ball soup and house babka Order: Lox bialy.

the Niagara of the South, with a moonbow

Cult roadside smokehouse fusing Texas and Korean barbecue traditions. (Cumberland) Order: Korean-style smoked brisket.

Contemporary Southern restaurant and award-winning bourbon bar on Jefferson Street pairing chef-driven plates with a deep whiskey list. Order: Bourbon flight.

For over 40 years a pillar of Lexington fine dining, serving refined American fare with Southern and European influences downtown. Order: Tournedos Maxwell.

Former capital of the Cherokee Nation (1825-1838), preserved as a state historic site with 12 original and reconstructed buildings including the Council House, Court House, and print shop; open Tue-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm (closed Sundays Dec-Mar).

Bustling South Limestone counter serving vibrant West African cuisine plus gourmet house-made ice cream near the university. Order: Jollof rice.

Georgia state historic site protecting six earthen mounds built by the Mississippian culture (1000-1550 AD) along the Etowah River, with a museum and riverside nature trail; open daily 9am-5pm (mounds area closes 4:30pm).

Longtime Lexington tradition set in a former horse-farm home, famed for classic Kentucky cooking and warm Southern hospitality. Order: Fried chicken.

60 smooth, shaded, car-free miles out of metro Atlanta

Upscale chef-driven steak and seafood house anchoring the historic Westwood Town Hall district. Order: A5 Wagyu.

a riverfront paved path through a great cycling city

Widely regarded as Atlanta's best Ethiopian, with communal injera platters and vibrant veggie combos. (Briarcliff) Order: Doro wat and veggie combo.