Meet the Resties of the Southeast: 5 Pit Stops Worth Stopping for on Your Next Road Trip

Growing up along the Gulf Coast, I feel like I know I-10 on a personal level. The drive from New Orleans to Destin is deeply embedded in my DNA at this point. I didn’t appreciate road trips as a kid (except for the tunnel in Mobile, obviously), though I’m proud to say I’ve grown into them in my adult years. 

I’m the type of traveler who doesn’t put anything on the agenda, just a vague direction in mind so that I can fill my day with endless side quests. Randomly stopping at a scenic overlook? You bet. Found a surprise trailhead? Count me in. A fruit stand on the side of the road? Take my money and give me those strawberries.

Fortunately, I’m not the only road-tripper around. We reached out to some of the best road-tripping experts to submit their picks for the best roadside pit stops in the U.S. for the Resites. The categories are: Pit Stop Bites, Quirky Attractions, Stop-Worthy Views, Uncommon Overnights, and All Fuel Aside (think rest stops). 

Did your favorite pit stop make the list? Read on to find out:

Best Pit Stop Bite: Robert Is Here Fruit Stand, Homestead, Florida

Jesse and Rachael Lyons have been living and traveling in their RV since 2018. They’ve visited almost every U.S. state and over 40 national parks, with a mission to find the best food and beer along the way and document their adventures. Here’s what they have to say about the best pit stop bites in the Southeast:

“This Florida fruit stand near US-1 is a must-stop en route to the Everglades or the Florida Keys.

The tropical milkshakes and smoothies are legendary, but take time to peruse the mountains of fresh fruit (including many varieties you've probably never heard of) and local Florida goodies.

Behind the stand, you'll find food trucks and a cute petting zoo. The name Robert Is Here is literal; we have seen Robert behind the cashier counter every visit. He's been there since 1959.”

Best Quirky Attraction: Robbie's of Islamorada, Islamorada, Florida

Abi and Nikki Rodriguez have been road-tripping full-time in their self-converted camper van for over 6 years. One of the best parts of traveling this way is the freedom to explore—they love pulling over for beautiful views and unusual attractions. Here’s what they have to say about the best quirky attraction in the Southeast:

"Robbie’s is a must-stop while road-tripping through the Florida Keys. Buy a bucket of fish and hand feed the Tarpon off the dock at Robbie’s for an incredible wildlife interaction that will leave you breathless. We visited 6 years ago and still vividly remember the spectacle. It was so cool! Bonus… get some food and drink before or after, and enjoy the beautiful ocean views.”

Best Stop-Worthy View: Oasis Visitor Center, Ochopee, Florida

If you love to live and eat like a local when you travel, then the Newstate Nomads are your new travel BFFs. Katelyn and Howard Newstate have been traveling full-time both by RV and internationally for nearly 7 years, sharing in-depth travel episodes, RV destinations, and can’t-miss activities on YouTube and across social media. When RVing and road-tripping in North America, they travel with three adventure pups—Piper, Ella, and Scout. Here’s what they have to say about the best stop-worthy views in the Southeast:

“When road-tripping across Florida from coast to coast, one of the most iconic and scenic routes you can take is Highway 41, stretching from Naples on the Gulf Coast to Miami on the Atlantic. While it’s not the 'official' Alligator Alley, this route offers a far more immersive and up-close experience with Florida’s famous wildlife—especially alligators.

If you're hoping to see these incredible creatures safely in their natural habitat, this is the road to take, and the Oasis Visitor Center is a must-stop destination. We never miss it—it’s always an unforgettable experience! Conveniently located just off the highway, the site features a spacious parking area that can even accommodate RVs.

The main attraction here is the elevated boardwalk, which gives you a front-row view into the surrounding wetlands. You’ll spot birds, fish, and often dozens of alligators—basking on the banks, nestled in the brush, or gliding silently through the water.

The small visitor center also offers insightful exhibits about the local ecosystem, making it both an educational and wildlife-filled stop.”

Best Uncommon Overnight: The Dive Motel, Nashville, Tennessee

Margaret and Corey Bienert started A Pretty Cool Hotel Tour in 2018 to document theme hotels and other fantastical places to stay. Since then, they’ve road-tripped to over 30 states and have found that the journey is definitely as important as the destination. Here’s what they have to say about the best under-the-radar boutique hotel stay in the Southeast:

"Visiting The Dive Motel feels a lot like stepping into the 70s, or so we imagine, with the entrance being through a bar that has a massive spinning disco ball, wood paneling on every wall, and gorgeous green booths. Each of the rooms is uniquely decorated, but all have a strong retro vibe complete with a 'party switch' that instantly turns on sparkling lights and dance music.

There's plenty of animal print, faux fur, and shag carpeting to go around, plus there’s the draw of a lovely swimming pool at the center of the property.

It really is the perfect weekend spot with great food and drinks, but be aware it is a 21 and up establishment."

Best All Fuel Aside: Stuckey’s, Mappsville, Virginia

Deyana is a virtual special education teacher who has been living nomadically on the road for the past 3 years with her loyal dog, Honcho. Together, they’ve traveled across North America in a self-converted school bus and van, exploring hidden gems and scenic routes few others find. With thousands of miles under her wheels and firsthand experience navigating life on the road, Deyana is here to recommend unforgettable roadside travel stops—tested and loved by a true road warrior. Here's what she had to say about Stuckey's, her vote for the best fuel stop in the Southeast:

"If you're traveling to the Delmarva Peninsula or Chesapeake Bay area, you'll want to stop at Stuckey's. It's a long-standing Southeast franchise mainly known for its famous pecan log rolls. With a rapid expansion in the '60s and '70s, locations began to dwindle but are making a comeback thanks to the original owner's granddaughter.

This location in particular is owned by a couple outside of the family, but stays true to the Stuckey's brand. You'll find candy, Virginia smoked hams, and plenty of kitschy souvenirs. You can fill your car up on gas and fill yourself with food at the Southern Grille, serving up local 'scrapple' breakfast, sandwiches, and more."

The Resties celebrate the best of roadside America; you can view all of the winners here. Want to nominate your favorite pit stops? Fill out the nomination form.