The Joy of the Journey: Finding Hidden Gems Beyond the Highway

So many people speed down the highway with one thing in mind: the destination. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the best parts of a trip often happen when you exit the highway.
On one trip, I followed a hand-painted sign that simply said “Fresh Pie.” It led me to a family-run diner where I spent an hour chatting with the owner about her childhood in that little town. On another trip, an unplanned stop led me to a field of sunflowers that stretched out farther than my eyes could see.
These hidden gems are everywhere, tucked just beyond the on ramps and off ramps we usually ignore. They remind me that travel isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s about what you discover along the way.
So next time you’re on the road, try pulling off at that quirky attraction or small-town café. Who knows what story you’ll come back with?