Take the Drive on 65: Every Exit Has a Story by Connie Pearson

Before beginning to write “Take the Drive on I-65: Where Every Exit Has a Story,” I decided to cover every mile of the interstate in both directions searching for as many interesting, delicious, significant, or quirky attractions as possible within a short drive of the thoroughfare itself. I was surprised at the number and variety I found, starting where I-65 touches I-10 and begins in Mobile, Alabama and ending right outside of Chicago where I-65 hits I-90, I-80, and I-94 slightly north of Gary, Indiana.

If you’ve never considered I-65 to be a valuable wealth of possibilities for discoverers with broad interests, then I’d recommend that you just settle in for an hour or two and read the book from the Foreword to the Index. Highlight places and attractions that grab your attention and then start planning how and where you’ll begin and end your trip.

If you already live in one of the four states I-65 connects, maybe you’ll want to be sure you haven’t missed anything. If you’re an adventurous eater, you’ll see that I’ve told you about iconic dishes in each state and where you are likely to be able to sample them. Believe me when I say that eating your way from Gulf shrimp to Hoosier pie can be a culinary delight that is both savory and sweet.

I hope you’ll try a detour or two. Get off the main highway, find the town or attraction, discover the story, then come right back to I-65 and continue on your way.