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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Fun Southern USA Road Trips For Your Bucket List

February 15, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

There are so many wonderful reasons to love the South, so to experience them all, it’s time to hit the road for some Southern Road Trips. With miles of coastline, mountain ranges, and iconic culture, there’s so much to see, do, and taste.

Sure, you can hop on a plane and visit city to city. But you’d be robbing yourself of some of the most picturesque landscapes that the USA has to offer. Let’s not forget that due to current circumstances, flying looks less and less appealing to many.

More and more people are abandoning air travel for hitting the open road. Whether it be traveling by car and sleeping in cozy AirBnbs or packing up an RV and sleeping under the stars in open nature, this is the perfect time to take a road trip.

Not only will a road trip keep you safe and socially distanced, you’ll get a real sense of the lands that warm the hearts, smiles, and delicious meals the South has to offer. Here are our favorite Southern road trips that won’t disappoint.

Football Championship Tour (Alabama)

• Jordan-Hare Museum
• Toomer’s Corner
• Bryant-Denny Stadium
• Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

While college sports are popular all over the United States, nobody loves their football quite like Alabama. Of all the Southern road trips, this trek is perfect for college football fans. We won’t judge who you’re rooting for!

Start in Auburn, home of the Tigers. On the Auburn University campus, you can visit the Jordan-Hare stadium. 75,000 season tickets have been sold every season for the past 18 years!

Don’t forget to visit the celebration spot of Auburn sports victories. At the corner of College Street and Magnolia Avenue, you can see where students “roll Toomer’s Corner.” Then grab a shake at Toomer’s Drugs, an old fashioned soda fountain!

Then head west to the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, home of the Crimson Tide. Walk in Bryant-Denny Stadium, where many legendary victories have taken place. A few blocks over, you can see Bama’s $30,000 replica of their Rose Bowl trophy!

Finally, head to the north to Birmingham. Spend a couple hours in the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. You’ll also notice the headquarters of the Southeastern Conference across the street!

Sunken Lands Cultural Roadway (Arkansas)

• Southern Tenant Farmers Museum
• Boyhood home of Johnny Cash
• Hampson Archeological Museum State Park

One of the best road trips in the South is to take the Sunken Lands Cultural Roadway in Arkansas. Normally used for the Tour duh Sunken Lands Cultural Bike Ride, it’s one of the best Southern road trips because of the stopovers in small towns.

Start in Tyronza where you can visit the Southern Tenant Farmers Museum. Then head uptown to see the Marked Tree. From there, keep on to Lepanto, where you can see “A Painted House,” featured in the TV movie based on the novel by John Grisham.

Next up, it’s Dyess, where you can see the boyhood home of Johnny Cash. Tours can take you through the home, restored with the help of Cash’s two youngest siblings. The home and gravel path leading to it were used in the movie, Walk The Line.

After that, move onto Wilson. Here at Hampson Archeological Museum State Park, you can explore the excavated ruins of the Nodena Native American Village. Finally, you’ll circle back to where you started in Tyronza.

Natural Springs Road Trip (Florida)

• Ginnie Springs
• Devil’s Den
• Rainbow Springs
• Ichetucknee Springs

A road trip in Florida to visit the  natural springs  can be perfect for summer or fall! The 72 degree waters will cool you down during the hottest summer day. During the winter, manatees migrate to the springs to keep warm.

Start your tour in Weeki Wachee to watch mermaids swim in the spring waters before heading north on US 19 to  Crystal River . If you time it right, you can attend their Manatee Festival!

Take US-41 to get to Rainbow Springs State Park, which actually has six waterfalls! Then hop back on US-41 to head north to Devil’s Den, a diver’s haven!

Get back on, you guessed it, US-41 and keep going north and you’ll hit three springs grouped very close together! Take your pick between  Gilchrist Blue Springs ,  Ginnie Springs , or Ichetucknee Springs. Or visit them all!

End your journey by driving north for just another hour and you’ll reach Madison Blue Springs, where you can swim and relax as your final reward!

Gulf Coast Road Trip (Florida to Texas)

• Panama City Beach
• Gulf State Park
• Rutherford Beach
• Biloxi Beach
• Rockport Beach

The Gulf of Mexico has some truly magical beaches, some rated the best in the country and even the world! Of all the Southern road trips, this one will take you through the best beaches on the Gulf Coast from Florida to Texas.

You’ll start in the Florida Panhandle, in Panama City. The beach here is a Spring Break destination, but can be family-friendly if you visit during any other time of the year.

Heading west to Alabama, you’ll then hit Gulf State Park with pristine white sands. Mississippi and Louisiana have Rutherford Beach and Biloxi Beach, respectively. You’ll want to stick around these parts for a while to experience the cuisine!

Biloxi is also home to some of the best Resorts In Mississippi , including beachfront ones!

Finally, you’ll land in Texas at the number one beach in the Lone Star State, Rockport Beach. A clean cresent of beach, you’ll find shallow waters and calm waves, perfect for families with small children!

Chattahoochee Mountains Road Trip (Georgia)

• Amicalola Falls
• Wolf Mountain Vineyards
• Apple Alley

This deep South road trip takes you in a loop around the Chattahoochee National Forest. These mountains were the site of America’s first major gold strike and continue to enrich the area with its unique cultural riches. Of all the Southern road trips, this one is perfect for the fall!

Start in Dahlonega, where you can visit the Gold Museum. You can see gold pans, tin signs and other treasures at the General Store. And don’t forget to grab some Outlaw Jerky & Trail Grub for the road! Make sure to check out some of the Best Things To Do In Dahlonega!

Stop off at the Wolf Mountain Vineyards, where you can dine on wild game with red wine with an unbeatable view from the mountaintop operation. Then head to the northwest to reach downtown Blue Ridge.

A favorite high-altitude retreat, Blue Ridge’s quaint downtown is full of bed and breakfasts and charming shops on Main Street to keep you busy and rested. If you visit during October through November, take a Fall Foliage Excursion on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway!

Head southwest to Ellijay to reach a ten-mile stretch of HWY 52 to find seven apple houses. Hit up several along the way and indulge in fritters, cider slushies, applesauce, chutney, and more! Make sure to bring a basket or bushel home for your friends!

Finally, end your trip at Amicalola Falls, the tallest waterfall in the south. Hikers will enjoy the challenging paths and staircases to the cascade, but there are other easier to reach observation areas! The falls are also adjacent to the Appalachian Trail, if you’re so inclined.

Bourbon Trail Road Trip (Kentucky)

• Woodford Reserve Distillery
• Wild Turkey Distillery
• Lexington Brewing Distilling Company
• Maker’s Mark Distillery

There’s a reason bourbon comes from Kentucky. The limestone-filtered water just makes it taste better. Of all the Southern road trips, the Bourbon Trail will explore Kentucky’s deep passion for creating America’s bourbon.

Begin in Louisville at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. Take the full tour of the distillery which ends of course in a free tasting. If you’re so inclined, you can stop off at the Louisville Slugger Museum afterward, to see where professional baseball bats are made!

Then head to Versailles to see the Woodford Reserve Distillery. After seeing the still, the warehouse, and the bottling process, grab a bite to eat in the cafe. Hop across town to the Wild Turkey Distillery, which has been making bourbon since 1869.

Afterwards, head to Lexington, home to Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company and Barrel House Distillery. Lexington Brewing also brews a delicious beer while Barrel House creates moonshine, vodka, and rum.

Finally, end your bourbon conquest in Loretto at the Maker’s Mark Distillery. Arguably the most famous in the state, a tour will afford you the opportunity to dip your own bottle in their iconic red wax.

Everglades Road Trip (Florida)

• Anhinga Trail
• Nine Mile Pond
• Mahogany Hammock Trail
• Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook

The  Everglades National Park  is a gigantic place to explore. It’s hard to know where to start! Luckily, this Southern road trip through the park will allow you to experience a little bit of everything the park has to offer.

Enter the park from the southernmost entrance of the three off of the Ingraham Highway. Here you’ll start your journey at the Coe Visitor Center. As you start driving, right off the bat, you’ll have your pick between the Anhinga Trail or the Gumbo Limbo Trail, some of the best hikes in Florida.

The road continues through the Pinelands and into the Dwarf Cypress Forest whose leaves actually change during fall in Florida! After passing Rock Reef Pass, stop at Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook. From the elevated platform, you’ll have the best views of the enormous sawgrass prairies.

Cajun Country Road Trip (Louisiana)

• Lake Martin
• Lake Fausse Point State Park
• Tabasco Factory

If your Southern road trips have you all New Orleans-ed out, then this will be welcome news. Louisiana is so much more than Mardi Gras, and a tour through the Acadiana region will immerse you in Cajun Country!

Start in Lake Martin to get a taste of wild Louisiana. Take a swamp tour in an airboat to wind through the cypress trees draped with Spanish moss. You’ll see turtles, egrets, herons, spoonbills, and baby owls. Don’t get too close to the gators!

Then head over to St. Martinville to explore Louisiana on your own! Lake Fausse Pointe State Park offers hiking, fishing, and birding opportunities. There are also cabins and campgrounds, so spend a night in the wilderness!

Hot sauce fans, rejoice! Next up is the Tabasco Factory in Avery Island! The McIlhenny Company will give you a tour and you can pick up souvenirs! Visit Jungle Gardens to see botanical gardens or consider taking a plantation tour while in Avery Island.

Finish your trip in Lafayette, full of Creole and Cajun cuisine! Make sure to try all the regional specialties, including blackened fish, shrimp Creole, gumbo, fried shellfish, and even fried alligator!

Waterfall Road Trip (Florida and Georgia)

• Falling Waters State Park
• Big Shoals State Park
• Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park

Florida does in fact have  waterfalls ! Not something you see every day! On this Florida road trip, you’ll discover that the best sound is that of a waterfall crashing down in front of you!

Start in Chipley in the Panhandle with a bang. Falling Waters State Park is home to the largest of Florida’s waterfalls at 73 feet high! From there, head to Bristol to get to Torreya State Park. Consider skipping this waterfall if you’re not a strong hiker.

Afterward, the next three waterfalls are thankfully close together. First see the “Disappearing” Waterfall at Camp Branch Conservation Area. Then head to Big Shoals State Park, which also offers river rafting! Just to the south is Falling Creek Falls.

As you head south to  Gainesville , you’ll reach Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park. Here the waterfall was created by a series of sinkholes. You can even stand inside of the sinkhole right next to the waterfall!

Take a refreshing reward at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon just outside of  Ocala . Here, you’ll get not one, but six waterfalls! You can also enjoy swimming, tubing, kayaking, snorkeling, and more.

Finally, head into Georgia to hit Amicalola Falls for your final reward. Higher and taller than any of the Florida waterfalls, the towering cascade reflects rainbows in the mist, perfect for photo ops.

The Great River Road Trip (Minnesota to Mississippi)

• Itasca State Park
• Gateway Arch
• Peabody Hotel
• Natchez National Historical Park

The Great River Road takes you from the head of the Mississippi River in Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf. While it starts farther north than the rest of these Southern road trips, there’s nothing stopping you from starting further down south like in Tennessee or Arkansas!

Starting in Itasca State Park in Minnesota, you can visit the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Be sure to take a picture with the sign that reads: “Here, 1,475 feet above the ocean, the mighty Mississippi begins to flow on its winding way, 2,552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico.”

Skipping down South to Missouri, make sure to stop in St. Louis, the Gateway City! Of course, stop at the Gateway Arch with a newly finished museum. Then head to Memphis, Tennessee, the birthplace of Rock N’ Roll to spend a night at the famous Peabody Hotel.

Continuing down to Mississippi, stop again in Natchez to see the Natchez National Historical Park or the Longwood mansion seen in True Blood ! Then it’s to the French Quarter in Louisiana for chicory coffee and beignets!

Cape Hatteras National Seashore Road Trip (North Carolina)

• Jockeys Ridge State Park
• Wild Horses
• Wright Brothers National Memorial
• Roanoke Island

Most people think of the Smokey Mountains when they think of North Carolina. Unlike other Southern road trips, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Road Trip will take you to little known oddities in the state’s culture and history.

Start in Corolla, where you can see the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, open daily from Easter to Thanksgiving. Here, you can also see wild horses running free, or Spanish mustangs as they’re known to locals.

Then head down to Duck, where you can visit the Wright Brothers National Museum. On the site of their first controlled powered flight, you can see full-scale reproductions of the 1902 glider and the 1903 flying machine.

Then visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park, where you can explore the highest sand dunes on the Atlantic coast. Climb up to the top to enjoy hang-gliding and sand-boarding from dizzying heights.

Finally, end your trip with some spooky North Carolina history with a visit to Roanoake Island. Although England’s first settlers’ mysterious disappearance is still a mystery, that didn’t stop American Horror Story from speculating. Get the real story here.

Historic Plantations Road Trip (South Carolina)

• Magnolia Plantation
• Middleton Place
• Charleston Tea Plantation

Visiting Plantations and taking tours are a sober reminder of the stains of human rights violations in American History. As hard as they are to visit, it is important to remember our mistakes so we can prevent them from happening again.

The most historic of Southern road trips begins in Charleston. Just outside on Wadmalaw Island is the Charleston Tea Plantation. The camellia plants originally planted in 1960 are now packaged by Mr. Bigelow.

Then head to the Magnolia Plantation, which is open from November to February. Down the road, you can find Drayton Hall which survived the American Revolution and the Civil War.

At Middleton Place, you’ll learn the story of slaves on the plantation through Eliza’s House. A relic of the freedmen housing, artisans perform demonstrations in period costumes as slaves.

Finally, head to Boone Hall in Mount Pleasant. Tour the large Colonial Revival mansion, slave cabins, and flower gardens. Then stroll the Avenue of Oaks, the road to the plantation with live oaks on both sides planted in 1743.

American Music Road Trip (Tennessee) 

• Grand Ole Opry
• Sun Studios
• Beale Street

Perhaps the most fun of the Southern road trips, the American Music Road Trip starts in Nashville, or “Music City” with its 120+ live venues. Check out the real deal at the Grand Ole Opry, the most famous stage in Country music and even get a backstage tour!

Then head southwest to Memphis to visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music where Issac Hayes and Aretha Franklin have recorded. Down the road is Sun Studios, the birthplace of Rock N’ Roll where Johnny Cash and Elvis recorded.

Stroll down Beale Street to hear current live performers before heading to Pigeon Forge to Dollywood! Co-owned by Dolly Parton herself, end your road trip with roller coasters, flume rides, and swing rides! Hit the Chasing Rainbows museum full of Parton’s treasures!

Route 66 Road Trip: Texas Edition

• Cadillac Ranch
• Floating Mesa
• Big Texan Steak Ranch

Route 66 ranks as one of the most famous Southern road trips. While it’s long, you never have to drive the entire thing. Good thing there’s plenty to do on Route 66 in the Lone Star State.

As you pass through Amarillo’s Historic District, you’ll find lots of quaint shops, restaurants, and amazing street art. Make sure to stop at the Cadillac Ranch, where ten Cadillacs are partially buried in the desert, covered in spray paint!

As you leave Amarillo, look out for the Floating Mesa! Okay, it’s not actually floating, there’s just a white stripe painted near the top, but it looks really cool!

Then head to the Big Texan Steak Ranch. The most infamous restaurant on Route 66, take their 72 0z. steak challenge. If you can eat the entire steak, plus sides, in less than an hour, your meal is free. If not, you’ll be set back $72.

After your victory or defeat, head to Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest in the US. The Grand Canyon of Texas, this stop is 30 minutes off the route, but worth the visit.

Monticello Wine Road Trip (Virginia)

• Flying Fox Vineyard
• Pollak Vineyard
• Knights Gambit Vineyard

None of the other Southern road trips on this list feature wineries, and none in Virginia are more pleasant than the ones on the Monticello Wine Trail. Inspired by inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s vision of grape growing and winemaking, this road trip can last as long as you like.

There are 30 beautiful wineries along the trail, all within easy access of Charlottesville. Just some include the Flying Fox Vineyard, Pollak Vineyard, Meriwether Springs, Knights Gambit Vineyard, and the Glass House Winery.

Stop in to a few to take tours of the processing plants, bottling facilities, and finish it all off with a wine tour! You might even get to stomp grapes with your own feet! You’ll want to visit during October, as it has been designated as Virginia Wine Month!

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Perfect USA Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 57 Comments

One of the trips in the US that we had always wanted to do was a “Deep South” road trip. We think the USA is the perfect country for road tripping in, and we’ve already done a number of road trips here, including iconic Route 66 , the Pacific Coast Highway , and the Oregon Trail.

The Deep South was a part of the USA that neither of us had fully explored, so we decided to spend five weeks crossing five states to find out what it was all about. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your own perfect USA Deep South Road Trip, including what to eat, what to see, and where to go!

Where is the Deep South of the USA?

First things first. If you’re going to road trip somewhere, you should probably know where it is, right? Well, the Deep South of the USA is usually defined as covering the following states: South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana.

This Deep South road trip itinerary covers a road trip across all five of those states, covering key sights and attractions along the way. We’ve personally done this itinerary, and can definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a fantastic road trip across America’s Deep South.

Why Should You Visit the Deep South of the USA?

The Deep South is a fascinating part of the USA, a land with its own culture and history. The people are known for their friendliness, the food is legendary (so are the portion sizes!), and there is a huge amount of history here to learn about, from the native peoples through to the American Civil War and civil rights movement.

There are lovely old towns, stunning wilderness areas, sumptuous plantation homes, spooky old cemeteries and fun events – like the world famous Mardi Gras parades. To be honest there’s something for everyone. And what better way to experience all of this than by taking a classic road trip across the Deep South?

We’d argue there isn’t a better way. So let’s take a look at our idea of a perfect Deep South road trip itinerary.

Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

This is a one way road trip itinerary. We find this makes the most sense for this road trip, as it saves you driving all the way back to the start.

If you rent a car for the trip, be aware that most car rental providers charge a one-way fee. As is often the case with our road trips, we booked our hire car directly with Enterprise who offered the best value for our trip.

We can also recommend comparing prices across a range of providers using a website like Discover Cars . If you decide to rent an RV, then we recommend Motorhome Republic to compare and book.

The timings below are for a three week trip, however you can adjust the days to suit your own schedule, and we have some suggested itineraries in the section on timing further on in the post.

Days 1-3: Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is the perfect place to start this road trip. It has a food scene that is one of the best in the country, and there is a lot to see and do here – plus the airport is fairly large, so it’s easy to get to.

We’d suggest spending at least two days in Charleston. Spend some time exploring the downtown area – a good way to do so is to take a carriage ride through the historic part of town.

There are also a number of museums and old houses that are worth visiting, including Charleston Museum – the oldest in the US, and the Old Slave Mart Museum , which will help you learn about a darker part of US history.

If you’re interested in naval or military history, the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point is well worth a visit – a retired US aircraft carrier which you can lose a whole day exploring. A trip out to Fort Sumter is also well worth it – this was where the first shots were fired in the American Civil War.

You’re going to be encountering a lot of civil war sights and information on this road trip, so starting with Fort Sumter will get you up to speed quickly. You can get your tickets for Fort Sumter in advance here .

If you’ve got time, I’d also suggest heading out of town and visiting some of the old plantation homes around Charleston.

We visited four of these, and can definitely recommend adding at least one to your itinerary. There are four within a twenty minute drive of the city: Magnolia Plantation , Boone Hall Plantation , Middleton Place Plantation and Drayton Hall .

See our complete guide to the Charleston Plantations for more information and to help plan your visit.

For more on Charleston, take a look at my detailed guide to visiting Charleston , which has everything you need for getting the most out of your stay. We can also recommend the Charleston Tour Pass (also check price here ) for saving money on attractions in the city.

Where to stay in Charleston : We’ve stayed in and can recommend both the Mills House Wyndham Grand and the Francis Marion Hotel . Other recommended options are the Days Inn by Wyndham , the NotsoHostel and Barksdale House Inn .

Days 4 – 6: Savannah, Georgia

The oldest city in Georgia, Savannah has a totally different vibe to Charleston – and there’s plenty to see and do here as well.

For that reason, you’ll want to spend at least a day or two in Savannah. I’d also suggest on your way down that you take the time to pop out to Botany Bay Island – there’s a beautiful beach here full of driftwood trees that is worth visiting.

Once you get to Savannah, you won’t be short of options for signt-seeing, eating and drinking. From learning about the town’s history and the civil war and civil rights movement at the Savannah History Museum , through to taking a trolley tour and exploring the beautiful waterfront, you’ll find your days full in no time.

If you’ve got time, we also recommend heading out of town to Tybee Island – an old seaside resort, where you’ll find a lengthy beach and historic lighthouse. On the way there, you’ll also be able to visit the civil war era Fort Pulaski , and the excellent Oatland Island Wildlife Centre , home to everything from mountain lions to birds of prey.

Finally, don’t miss the incredible Bonaventure Cemetery , and, as you head out of town, we also suggest visiting Wormsloe Historic Site . Read more about what to see and do (and some great food ideas!) in Savannah in our Savannah guide .

Savannah also has a pass that can save you money, the Savannah Tour Pass (compare price here too), which is worth looking into if you plan on visiting some of the attractions it covers.

Where to stay in Savannah : We stayed in and can recommend the  Quality Inn in downtown Savannah. Other options to consider include the Olde Harbour Inn , The Alida , and the Fairfield Inn & Suites .

Days 7 & 8: Atlanta, Georgia

Next stop on our Deep South road trip is the capital city of Georgia – Atlanta.

If you have time though, I’d recommend taking the time to head a bit further south of Savannah to Jekyll Island. There’s a beautiful driftwood beach at the north end of the island, perfect for watching the sunset or sunrise, and the island itself has a relaxed laid back feeling.

Then, rather than the interstate, cruise up the quieter country roads from Brunswick to Macon, and the onto Atlanta.

Atlanta is the capital city of Georgia, and has a definite city feel. We didn’t spend a lot of time here, but we did visit the World of Coca Cola , where we learnt all about the history of this iconic soft drink (and drank a lot of it too!).

Other highlights in Atlanta include the Georgia Aquarium , the Atlanta Zoo , CNN Studio Tours , the Centre for Civil and Human Rights and the Fernbank Museum of National History .

If you’re planning on visiting a number of these locations, we recommend checking out the Atlanta CityPass , which can save you over 40% on ticket prices.

Once you’re done with Atlanta, it’s time to head to a new state – Alabama!

Where to stay in Atlanta : Options to consider in Atlanta include the AC Hotel Atlanta , Loews Atlanta Hotel ,  the Springhill Suites by Marriott and the Clarion Inn & Suites .

Days 9 & 10: Birmingham, Alabama

The Civil Rights movement in the USA existed across the nation, but many of the key events in the march towards equal rights for all happened in Alabama.

One of these events was the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, which killed four African-American girls, and injured at least 14 others.

It was also the home of the Birmingham Campaign , one of the key movements that focused the attention of the country, and the world, on the civil rights movement.

One of the best places to learn about these events is at the excellent Birmingham Civil Rights Institute , which forms a part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , alongside other key civil rights locations in the city.

These include the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park, both of which are just over the road from the Institute, as well as the Bethel Baptist Church and the A.G. Gaston Motel.

As well as learning about Civil Rights, Birmingham has a number of other attractions. This was a major mining town and there are a number of sights you can visit to learn about this history. The old Sloss Furnaces , now a National Historic Landmark, offer an insight into the industrial past of the city.

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mined. Today, the mountain is topped by a giant statue of the Roman god Vulcan – the largest cast iron statue in the world. This statue is the symbol of the city, and from the top of the hill you can get a wonderful view of the city and surrounds.

Finally, before continuing your adventure, a food recommendation. We ate a lot of great BBQ across the South, and Saw’s BBQ in Birmingham was definitely among our favourites. If you like BBQ – check them out.

Where to stay in Birmingham : Options to consider in Birmingham include the historic 3* Cobb Lane B&B , the 3* Redmont Hotel and the 4* Elyton Hotel . For more budget options, consider the Red Roof Inn or the Quality Inn & Suites , just be aware that these are a short drive out of the city centre.

Days 11 & 12: Montgomery, Alabama

Heading south from Birmingham now, and our road trips takes us to Alabama’s state capital – Montgomery. Again, there’s a lot to see and do here.

We really enjoyed visiting the free Museum found in the Alabama Department of Archives and History , which took us through a whole history of the state, from the native people through to the civil war, civil rights movement and on to modern day Alabama.

Just opposite this is the First White House of the Confederacy, also worth a visit, which was where the President of the Confederate States was based during the period of time that Montgomery was the capital city of these states in early 1861.

There are some other fascinating museums in and around Montgomery if you’re feeling like learning. There’s the Mooseum , which will teach you everything you didn’t know about the beef industry.

Then there’s the Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum , found in one of their former homes, which, as the name suggests, is all about the life of Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald – Scott being particularly famous for penning the Great Gatsby .

Finally, there’s the excellent Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts , showcasing fine art from both American and International artists.

Don’t worry, there’s more to Montgomery than museums of course. We loved visiting Chris’ Hot Dogs , a staple Montgomery diner, which has been serving up classic American fare since 1917!

Finally, there are some lovely locations just to wander. Montgomery has some wonderful historic districts that are worth exploring on foot, and the riverwalk area (also home to the visitors information centre), is a pleasant spot for a stroll.

Where to stay in Montgomery, AL : Accommodation options to consider in Montgomery include the Lattice Inn , the Red Bluff Cottage B&B , the Hampton Inn & Suites . Nearby budget options include this Red Roof Inn and this Extended Stay America .

Day 13: Selma, Alabama

From Montgomery, it’s a short trip across to Selma, which is well worth visiting. We had recently seen the movie Selma when we visited, which had helped with some of our understanding of the importance of this town.

It was in Selma that the famous Selma to Montgomery march took place, with marchers including Dr. Martin Luther King. The march met with violent resistance on Edmund Pettus Bridge on a day that became known as Bloody Sunday, and was unable to continue.

The march was attempted again two days later, but again was forcefully stopped. Finally, on the 21st March 1965, the march was allowed to proceed, and made it all the way to Montgomery, arriving on the 25th March 1965.

Today, Selma is worth visiting to get a feel for the town where these key civil rights events took place. You can walk across the bridge, visit the National Voting Rights Museum & Institute , and the Selma Interpretative Centre, to get eye witness accounts and first hand information on the civil rights movement.

Once you’ve finished seeing Selma, our next destination will be Mobile, but we definitely recommend taking the 20 minutes to drive out to the Old Cahawba Archaeological Site .

For five years, from 1820 to 1825, Cahawaba was the state capital of Alabama. This is hard to believe today, as the town is entirely abandoned, known instead as Alabama’s most famous ghost town. Some buildings have survived, and it is eerie to drive or walk around what was once a large town that is now silent.

Where to stay in Selma, AL : Selma is a relatively small town so there is not a huge choice. This Holiday Inn Express Hotel is the best rated of the options available.

Day 14: Mobile, Alabama

Time to head for the coast now, and the last stop in Alabama – Mobile. In Mobile you’ll notice that famous style of French architecture that the old quarter of New Orleans is famed for, this is because Mobile was the original capital of French Louisiana. It was subsequently colonised by the British and then the Spanish, before joining the United States in 1813.

Again, there’s a lot to do in Mobile, with plenty of museums, historic attractions, parks, not to mention restaurants and bars. However, our real interest in visiting Mobile was to learn about the roots of the Mardi Gras Carnival, because it was in Mobile that the first organised Carnival celebrations took place, leading to the huge parades and celebrations that we now associated with Mardi Gras in the south.

We were in Mobile for their Mardi Gras festivities, and very much enjoyed seeing the night time parade. We also visited the Mobile Carnival Museum , which is a great way to get up to speed with the history of the Carnival in the USA.

Where to stay in Mobile, AL : Good central options in Mobile include the Candlewood Suites , Hampton Inn and Suites and the Forte Conde Inn . Value options a little way out of the city centre include La Quinta by Wyndham and Wingate by Wyndham .

Days 15 & 16: Biloxi, Mississippi

From Mobile, it’s time to leave Alabama and head west, into Mississippi. I’ll be honest – time constraints meant that we didn’t have time on our trip to do a lot of sight-seeing in Mississippi. Which is a shame, because this is a state with a lot to offer, and it’s somewhere we fully intend to return to.

On the route across to Louisiana we mostly just drove through, but we think if you have time, you might want to add in some sight-seeing in Mississippi.

Most logically, the city of Biloxi falls on the route and is a good stopping point.

Other highlights of the route include the INFINITY Science Centre – a 72,000 sq foot NASA visitor and science museum which forms a part of the John C. Stennis Space Centre. If you like space, rockets and science, this is a must visit.

After Biloxi, you’ll be crossing the border and into Louisiana, the final state of your deep south road trip!

Where to stay in Biloxi, MS : There’s a wide range of great value accommodation in Biloxi, including several casino resort hotels. These can be fantastic value if you resist the temptation to gamble. Some examples include the Golden Nugget and the IP Casino Resort and Spa . There’s also a good value Suburban Extended Stay just outside the city.

Days 17 & 18: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge is the State Capital of Louisiana, and again, there’s plenty to do here to fill two or three days of exploring and eating time.

A highlight for us was a trip to the State Capitol building . This incredible construction towers over the city, and you get incredible views from the top floor – plus you can visit the House of Representatives, and the State Senate, to see politics in action.

Whilst you’re at the State Capitol, you should also visit the old Baton Rouge Arsenal, originally a powder magazine, and now a museum about its history. Capitol Park Museum , which covers a full history of the state of Louisiana, is also well worth a couple of hours of your time at least.

Other highlights of Baton Rouge include the castle-like Old State Capitol Building , which has a stunningly beautiful interior, the Old Governors Mansion , and the USS Kidd – a naval museum on an old warship anchored in the Mississippi.

For more information on what to do on your time in Baton Rouge, including advice for visiting during Mardi Gras, check out our post on the top Things to Do in Baton Rouge .

Between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, along the mighty Mississippi river, is the famous “river road”. This was once home to hundreds of plantation homes and some of the wealthiest people in the country, who made their money predominantly growing sugar cane and through slave labour.

Today, a small number of these plantation homes survive, mostly as visitor attractions. There are a good many to choose from, all of which offer a slightly different experience to the visitor, including some which let you stay overnight.

Helping you choose which one to visit is a post in itself – thankfully Jess has already written one. Check it out for the definitive guide to the Plantations of the Louisiana River Road , based on our experiences visiting 12 of these plantations.

Where to stay in Baton Rouge, LA : We stayed at the very central Hampton Inn and Suites in Baton Route. Other options to consider include the Holiday Inn Express Baton Rouge , the 4* Watermark Baton Rouge and the Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge . For budget out of town options, try Sleep Inn South , Microtel Inn & Suites or SureStay Plus .

Days 19 – 21: New Orleans, Louisiana

Last stop on our epic road trip across the Deep South of the USA is New Orleans . Famous for its huge Mardi Gras celebrations, there is a lot to see and do here – so much so that we happily spent a week exploring the city.

Of course, if you want to experience a huge Mardi Gras, then New Orleans is the place to come. The parades are massive, the crowds are gigantic, and the atmosphere is tough to beat.

We had a lot of fun visiting New Orleans during Mardi Gras and would happily recommend it. That said, there is a lot more to the city than Mardi Gras.

We suggest visiting Mardi Gras World to get a handle on the carnival, heading to the French Quarter to admire the beautiful old balconied buildings, eating Beignets at Café Beignet , sipping coffee at Cafe du Monde , and taking a tour of one of the old cemeteries.

We also took a river boat cruise on the steam powered riverboat the Natchez , which was a wonderful way to end our Deep South adventure.

For more on what to see and do in New Orleans, check out our guide to visiting  New Orleans during Mardi Gras , which has lots of information on activities, plus advice on visiting during Mardi Gras.

We can also recommend the New Orleans Pass to save money on attractions in the city.

Where to stay in New Orleans, LA : There’s a huge amount of choice in New Orleans, although if you visit during Mardi Gras, expect prices to be high. Some options for you to consider are: Bourbon Orleans Hotel , La Quinta by Wyndham , Hotel Mazarin , Hotel le Marais and French Market Inn .

Deep South Road Trip Itinerary Map

Here’s a map of the above route to help you plan your own trip.

Well done – you made it! And so did we. Now, let’s answer some questions you might have, and then cover some practicalities for your trip.

How Long Does a Deep South Road Trip Take?

We spent five weeks road tripping from Charleston to New Orleans, although we spent almost a week at either end, and we travelled fairly slowly, taking our time and really savoring the adventure.

We’d suggest that a two week deep south road trip would be the minimum amount of time we’d recommend, and if you have time, try to stretch it to three weeks so you can fit more in.

As an example of how each of these might look, we have put together suggested timings for a two week deep south road trip itinerary and a three week deep south road trip itinerary below.

2 Week Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

• Days 1 & 2: Charleston, South Carolina
• Days 3 & 4: Savannah, Georgia
• Day 5: Atlanta, Georgia
• Day 6: Birmingham, Alabama
• Day 7: Montgomery, Alabama
• Day 8: Selma, Alabama
• Day 9: Mobile, Alabama
• Day 10: Biloxi, Mississippi
• Days 11 & 12: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Day 13 & 14: New Orleans, Louisiana

3 Week Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

• Days 1 – 3 : Charleston, South Carolina
• Days 4 – 6 : Savannah, Georgia
• Days 7 & 8 : Atlanta, Georgia
• Days 9 & 10 : Birmingham, Alabama
• Days 11 & 12 : Montgomery, Alabama
• Day 13 : Selma, Alabama
• Day 14 : Mobile, Alabama
• Days 15 & 16 : Biloxi, Mississippi
• Days 17 & 18 : Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Day 19 – 21 : New Orleans, Louisiana

Of course, there’s a lot more to see in all the states we’ve mentioned, so you could easily extend this itinerary for as long as you wish!

When to Visit the Deep South

We visited in January, when the temperatures were pleasant for the most part – although we did experience light and brief snowfall in Birmingham, Alabama! We’d definitely suggest Winter or Spring / Fall would offer the most reasonable temperatures. In the summer this part of the USA gets very hot and humid, which can make sight-seeing uncomfortable.

If you’re interested in attending the Mardi Gras festivities, these vary in timing as they are based around Shrove Tuesday, a religious date which changes every year. It usually falls somewhere in February or March.

If you’re not interested in Mardi Gras, it’s best to avoid cities that celebrate it during this time, particularly places like New Orleans, Mobile and Baton Rouge, as accommodations will be both expensive and hard to find.

What to Eat in the Deep South

Fair warning, don’t come to the Deep South expecting to lose weight. Portions are large and the food is definitely waist expanding.

There are a lot of foods to try, but some of our favourites were:

Gumbo – A soup which can be made with seafood or meat and is either cajun or creole in style

Jambalaya – A Louisianan rice dish mixed up with various meats, usually including smokey sausage

Fried Chicken – No round up of Southern food would be complete without mentioning fried chicken. Usually battered, this is an absolute must-try when journeying through the south. We had it presented in all kinds of forms, from the classic no frills fried chicken, through to fried chicken on waffles with bacon and maple syrup. Amazing.

BBQ – Of course, the Deep South doesn’t have a monopoly on BBQ (Texans in particular would have something to say about this I suspect), but the origins of BBQ are definitely in the south. Different regions have different BBQ sauce styles, with the classic meat being pork.

Grits – I’d never had grits before visiting the Deep South, and was I missing out! Served generally as an accompaniment, they are made from ground corn which is boiled. Tastier than they sound!

Where to Stay in the Deep South

There are a lot of lodging options in the USA, truly something for pretty much every budget. On our trip, we did a mix of motels, hotels and AirBnB stays, generally booking online using booking.com as we found that was cheaper than turning up at the property.

Often we’d arrive at hotels and ask if they would price match, but we were usually told by the reception staff to book through booking.com for the best deal! So we did.

For your convenience, here are direct links to all the city pages on booking.com that we used for our deep south road trip. Each section of the article also has recommended lodgings.

• Baton Rouge
• New Orleans

Practicalities for your Deep South Road Trip

Travelling in the Deep South of the USA is relatively easy. People are generally friendly, you can ask for help, and the infrastructure is good. There are a few things to be aware of, so here’s a run down of some of the most important.

The USA uses a 120 Volt electrical system, which means if you’re coming from Europe you need to check if your equipment is supported. Most laptops and phone chargers will work (the adapter will have 100 – 240V marked on it), however high powered items like hair dryers and travel kettles may not. You can buy voltage convertors, but these tend to be heavy – my advice would be just to pick up a cheap version of whatever it is you need in the country from somewhere like Walmart.

The plugs are for the most part a narrow two pin plug, if you’re coming from abroad you’ll need a travel adapter . See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

I also advise travelling with a power strip – often motels / hotels don’t have enough outlets to charge all those gadgets we travel with. Something like this would be good.

Internet Access

Internet access is relatively easy to find in the US. WiFi networks can be found at most bars, restaurants, cafes and hotels, and there are also free networks in some public areas. So getting online isn’t too hard.

If you need to be permanently online with data on your phone, you have a number of options. First, check if your cellphone provider has some form of overseas roaming policy. If the prices are unreasonable, you have a number of other options.

First, if your phone is unlocked, you can pick up a SIM card locally. One of the better value deals in the USA I found was the Straight Talk plan, which offers 5GB of data for $45, and can be picked up at any Walmart. There are lots of other PAYG options to choose from, see an overview here .

For more information on the various options you have for getting online, see our complete guide to getting online when you travel .

Health / Insurance

The USA has a great healthcare system, with the huge caveat that it’s mind-bogglingly expensive. I cannot stress the importance of good travel insurance enough that will cover your medical fees if the worst should happen.

Depending on where you live in the world there are numerous travel insurance companies, so do shop around for a good policy.

We have a full guide to travel insurance for UK travellers here.

Safety Tips

The USA is a safe country to travel in for the most part, however, sensible precautions should apply. Don’t leave valuables alone or in plain sight, especially in parked cars. Take advantage of the safe in your hotel or motel. Don’t travel with large amounts of cash – use your credit card or debit card instead, and just keep small bills for tips and instances where cards aren’t accepted.

Be aware of your surroundings, particularly if travelling alone or in an unfamiliar neighbourhood. Check with locals, like your AirBnB host, if there are neighbourhoods to avoid.

Finally, take a look at your governments travel advice page for the latest information that may apply to you – for example, the UK Foreign Office has some helpful information for travellers to the USA here , which applies to both UK and non UK nationals.

The USA uses the US dollar bill. These are all green, and come in seven denominations – $1, $2, $5, $20, $50 and $100. They are all the same size, with only the number and illustration being different, so they can be a little hard to get used to at first. There are also coins, running from 1 cent through to $1.

Credit cards are widely accepted, and are usually the easiest way to pay. At gas stations in particular, it’s most common to pay at the pump with a credit card rather than at the till.

One thing to be aware of – prices in the USA are usually displayed without sales tax or tip included. Sales tax varies state to state, from 0% to around 10%. This is something to keep in mind, especially in restaurants, as everything on the menu will be a bit more expensive than indicated once tax is added.

Tipping is also a part of the culture in the USA, especially in the service industry. Tips average 15%, but can vary between 10% and 20%. You can either add the tip to the credit card, or leave cash. It’s always helpful to have some $1 bills for tipping purposes.

For an idea of how much to budget for a road trip like this, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA .

Driving in the USA is quite easy – the roads are large, well-signed and the vehicles are usually automatic which gives you less to worry about.

There are definitely a few quirks to be aware of though if you’ve not driven here before – things like turning on a red light and the rules at STOP intersections. It’s a lot to cover, so I wrote a whole post on tips for driving in the USA which will answer all your questions.

Otherwise, take a look at car rental prices here to compare the best deals from a number of providers and get yourself booked for your adventure!

Further Reading for your Deep South Road Trip

We’ve written a fair amount about travelling in the USA , plus we have some resources that we think you will find useful for a trip like this. These are:

• A guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA
• Tips for Driving in the USA
• A comprehensive guide to the River Road Plantations of Louisiana
• City guides for New Orleans , Baton Rouge , Savannah and Charleston
• For more road trip inspiration, take a look at our two week California road trip , our two week  Route 66 itinerary , our Pacific Coast Highway guide , our 1 week Route 66 itinerary , and our two week Las Vegas, Grand Canyon and California road trip itinerary
• This is my South – a travel blog focused on what to see and do in this part of the world
• Lonely Planet’s guide to Louisiana and the Deep South
• Our guide to the best Airbnb Alternatives , to help you get the best lodging, whatever your budget
• Looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out our guide to the world’s best road trips for more ideas!

And that pretty much sums up our post on the perfect USA Deep South Road Trip! Have you ever done a trip like this? Anywhere you’d suggest adding to the itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

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Lee & Sue says

1st January 2024 at 9:44 am

Hi guys…

We really enjoyed reading about your trip… We are doing a trip in April 2024 for 3-4 weeks but we are starting in Dallas Texas & possibly finishing in Miami (Haven’t fully decided yet)…

I have one question that hopefully you may be able to answer… With car rental, say we Start in Dallas are we able to return the vehicle to a totally different place & is there anything we should know about this ??? I’m in my mid 50’s & this will be a new experience for me…

Laurence Norah says

1st January 2024 at 4:05 pm

Hi Lee & Sue

You can definitely book a hire car one way. The only thing to be aware of is that pretty much every car rental company we know of does charge a fee for this, known as a one-way fee. This fee varies by company and where you are returning the car to. Some very popular routes don’t always have a fee (for example we once did a trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco and there was no one way fee when we did it), but that’s the exception.

The fee is normally displayed at the end of the booking process, and you should just be aware the rental car comparison sites don’t always include this fee. So it’s best to get a quote direct to ensure the fee is included.

I hope this helps, have an amazing road trip and let me know if you have any more questions!

Stewart says

1st November 2023 at 11:04 am

Excellent post on a Southern road trip, just wanted to saw we found it very helpful!

1st November 2023 at 1:20 pm

Thanks very much Stewart, I hope you have a great time!

James Messenger says

22nd May 2023 at 5:11 am

May 2023. My wife and I followed your guide virtually to the letter. Starting with Charlestone. We skipped Atlanta due to time. And you were spot on with all your destinations. However for future travellers. Skip Mobile totally. Very little to see and for us a total bust as we arrived on Saturday. On Sunday & Monday most museums, houses and tourist sites are closed. The city Trolley Tour of 90 minutes doesn’t operate those two days. We went to Visitors Centre at 1pm for guidance. It never bothered to open. After 12 days Road Trip this was the most severely disappointing city. We hope this is the only let down as we continue for another 20 days on our 9th US Road Trip.

12th June 2023 at 7:05 pm

I’m delighted to hear you guys have had a great time in following our Deep South road trip itinerary! Interesting to hear your feedback on Mobile, I am sure that will help other travellers. I hope the rest of your adventure also went well 🙂

Safe travels!

Michelle says

14th September 2021 at 6:15 pm

Hello, a friend and i are driving from CT to TX and back all along the south and middle states on way home. CT, NY, PA, WV, KY, TN, Alabama, Miss, Lousiana, Tx. We are looking for places that are not just the tourism attractions, but the places that are a WOW experience – views etc. from PA to TX is there any places that you would say are you have to go to…. Thank you in advance for any guidence on this.

I am looking forward to staying in an amish comunity – yes i am sure it is touristy but they are truley facinating.

17th September 2021 at 11:27 am

Hi Michelle!

Wow, that sounds like a fantastic road trip! I have to be honest that I’ve not visited the first states on your list in sufficient depth to be able to give solid recommendations. For Alambama I can definitely recommend Huntsville, it’s an awesome town with tonnes to do (see our guide to things to do in Huntsville here ). There are also some excellent civil rights trail stops in AL, including in Birmingham, Montgomery and Selma. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park outside Selma is really interesting as well. Further south you can learn about the history of Mardi Gras in Mobile, although you might have crossed into Mississippi by then. In Louisiana, Baton Route is definitely worth some time exploring, and the river road plantations along the way into New Orleans are definitely worth visiting.

I can definitely recommend Amish country. My wife is from Ohio and we’ve visited Amish country a number of times. The food is always a highlight of a visit 😀

Have an amazing trip, let me know if I can offer any further insights!

Jon parker says

15th July 2021 at 6:42 am

Hiya, could I do a Deep South trip over 3 months using a backpack, travelling without a car? Would look to travel from end October for 3 months, what would the weather be like?

15th July 2021 at 11:42 am

You certainly could do that, the locations mentioned in this deep south itinerary are all linked by Greyhound bus, so that would be achievable. The weather is definitely cooler at that time of year, particularly around November and December. In Alabama we were there in January, and we had a few flakes of snow and the temperatures were just above freezing. However it can warm up a bit more. I’d definitely dress warmly though!

Have a safe trip!

Kristin Arnone says

27th May 2021 at 3:26 pm

Hello – I have loved reading several of your itineraries and have gotten several great trip ideas these past few days! Where is the lovely plantation located that is in the photo at the beginning of this Deep South Road Trip article? Thank you so much!!!

28th May 2021 at 1:23 pm

Hi Kristin! That’s Oak Alley Plantation 🙂 You can read all about it in our blog post all about Oak Alley here 🙂

Jessica L Chann says

29th January 2020 at 8:21 pm

Thank you for sharing! These are all fantastic cities. I must admit I am sad to see Tennessee get left off of the list. Nashville and Chattanooga are two amazing cities to visit! Also North Carolina deserves some love! Nothing like the mountains!!

30th January 2020 at 7:29 am

Hi Jessica!

My pleasure. I agree, there are some wonderful stops not on the list – unfortunately I couldn’t include everywhere. Seems I will have to make another itinerary!

Carolyn says

8th July 2019 at 12:27 am

Hey! Great article. I would have loved to read more on your site, but the ads were super frustrating. I know writers have got to make a living, but I actually found it very difficult to read because videos were playing and graphics were flashing beside and at the bottom of my screen.

9th July 2019 at 3:39 pm

Hi Carolyn,

Thanks for your feedback! Unfortunately there are few ways for us to monetize the site beyond ads, most people aren’t willing to pay for content on the internet these days, so the ads are the only option we really have to pay the bills and allow us to travel and write about destinations. We’re not massive fans of ads either, but it’s just the reality. For the ad unit at the bottom you should be able to press the “X” to close it out at least.

Johan Lupander says

20th May 2019 at 10:07 am

Very informative and a great help in planning for a visit in early 2020!

The price advantage for an European in arriving and departing in/from the same airport (ATL) is compelling but naturally means a round-trip itinerary. Your trip suggestion does not include the up-river area Baton Rouge – Natchez – Vicksburg. Any particular reason why?

20th May 2019 at 10:33 am

Hi Johan – thanks very much!

It’s largely just a question of time – there are large chunks of every state that have been left out, such is the nature of a road trip across states. We’re often just as happy spending weeks exploring one state as we are travelling between them. The trip certainly isn’t meant to be prescriptive though, feel free to adjust to your own interests 🙂

23rd April 2019 at 2:17 pm

Great little guide to the South! My girlfriend are from the UK and I are planning a road trip in September-October (six weeks total). Right now our plan is to do it in 2 legs (a Western states leg and a Southern States leg).

Perhaps something like this….

1st leg: Hire RV in San Francisco, then…..Yosemite – Death Valley – Las Vegas – Grand Canyon – Monument Valley – back to Las Vegas (to drop off RV and fly out).

2nd leg: A bit more undecided at the moment. I’ve got some friends just south of Nashville so would like to visit them for a couple of days. But would also love to see New Orleans so perhaps makes sense to fly into there from Vegas and work our way up? I’ve been to Memphis, Nashville and Knoxville on a previous trip so perhaps keen to see some other places with good food and music in the south! Also thinking perhaps better to hire a car in the south and stay in motels, as could be more economical/easy than RV-ing everywhere?

We fly out from New York at the end of the 6 weeks so will plan to spend at least 2-3 days there at the end.

Any advice would be welcome!

Thanks Miles

23rd April 2019 at 2:27 pm

First, thanks very much!

So your first section sounds great, it’s an itinerary that is very popular and is something we hope to write about soon on our blogs 🙂

For the second leg, I’d say flying in NOLA makes sense, and then you can build your itinerary around what you are most interested in. There are lots of cities and attractions (as you can see from this itinerary), and you won’t have any problem filling in your route.

I would say that for this stretch it will likely be more economic to rent a car and stay in budget motels rather than renting an RV. RV’s are great, but they are pretty expensive to rent, and then you often have to pay for campsites anyway. So it makes sense out in the west as there are many areas where you can camp, but in more populated areas it is less logical I think.

I hope this has helped a little bit at least 🙂

23rd April 2019 at 2:34 pm

Hi Laurence,

Thanks a lot for the speedy reply. And you’ve confirmed what I was thinking already, which is great! Just one more question. Do you think 6 weeks is fine for this sort of itinerary?

Thanks again Miles

23rd April 2019 at 3:06 pm

I’d say so yes. Of course, the more time you have the more you can see (the States is a big place!) but you will definitely be able to see a lot in six weeks for sure!

Jeremy says

8th March 2019 at 7:32 pm

Hey, just a quick correction to the Montgomery section of your trip. Cahawba was only the capital city temporarily from 1820 until 1826 – not for over 100 years. Huntsville was the first temporary capital after Alabama became a state in 1819 (200 years ago on December 14 of this year), then Cahawba (as I said, until 1826), then Tuscaloosa until 1846 which is when it moved to Montgomery in an attempt to have the capital be a more centrally located city in the state. Love the blog, My wife and I are heading to Savannah for our anniversary this year and thanks to your blog, we are going to take a couple of extra days to go to Charleston. I’ve been there but it was long ago and I had forgotten how beautiful it was. Thanks.

8th March 2019 at 7:44 pm

Hi Jeremy! Thanks for the information, I’m not sure how I got that so wrong – I must have misread a date somewhere along the line. I’ve updated that. Interestingly, some sources say that Selma was the state capital from 1825 – 1826, wheras others seem to indicate it went from Cahawba to Tuscaloosa. Anyway, I have corrected it in the post to be more accurate! Thanks again, and have a wonderful trip – we loved Charleston, and we hope you do too 🙂

Richard Sullivan says

12th February 2019 at 2:25 pm

This all looks very interesting indeed. I am hoping to do a family road trip, either deep-south, or West to East coast. But blimey, the food does not look at all appealing! Gosh is all food either brown or covered in cheese in America?

12th February 2019 at 5:29 pm

Hi Richard,

Definitely not – there’s pretty much everything you could imagine, from healthy options to more cheese covered dishes 😉

I’m sure you’ll find something you enjoy

Keith & Ann Garner says

21st January 2019 at 12:36 pm

Hi Laurence & Jessica Love your web page, we live in the UK and are thinking of planning a trip to the south for two weeks and looking for advice for the best route to take for us to see the most interesting places. We are thinking of going in May is this a good time? We are planning to arrange the trip ourselves, rather than an agent so is it wise to book hotels/motels or airbnb in advance here in the UK. Any advice would be much appreciated.

many thanks

Keith & Ann

21st January 2019 at 1:12 pm

Hey Keith and Ann,

Thanks very much. It’s a fantastic trip and we’re sure you’ll have a great time. May is a great time for this trip, temperatures will be pleasant but not unbearable, likely in the 20C – 30C range.

For your hotels, I would say that generally you will be ok not to book far in advance at this time of year, the only exceptions would be if there any any events happening in any of the locations you are headed to that you need to be aware of. I can’t think of any off the top of my head. May should also not be too busy in general, so availability should be reasonable. We have not normally had a problem just booking a day or two in advance on trips like this, but if you prefer peace of mind and greater choice, then you can always book in advance. One idea is to book using a platform like booking.com at properties that allow for cancellation, and then you can switch it up as you go if you prefer, whilst having a fallback option.

Have a fantastic trip, and do drop by and let us know how it goes – either here, or in our facebook group 🙂

https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelloversandphotography/

7th January 2019 at 12:04 am

I found your blog, while I was trying to figure out where to go for my 50th birthday. My wife said that we can go anywhere I want, as long as we stay inside the USA. We have up to four weeks, of vacation, ready to go. But we do have two elementary age children. So the trip will have to be between mid June and late August. Over the past 12 years, we’ve taken road trips to West Virginia, across the Northern states. Traveled all around the Mid-West (Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kentucky). Road trips down the Oregon and California coasts, And we’ve spent a week (give or take a day or two) in each of the following: Hawaii, Miami, New York, Washington D.C, Las Vegas, Phoenix and San Francisco. But I’ve never spent any time in the Deep South. After reading your blog, that may change. You made the Deep South sound like a great place to go with our kids (especially since I’m into American history). The only part I’m worried about, is its weather and the humidity. We’ll be coming from the Seattle area, where the weather and humidity is the exact opposite from the South. So the Summer weather, kind of worries me.

7th January 2019 at 11:16 am

The south is definitely a wonderful place to travel, but you are correct, that time of year is more challenging when it comes to the weather. It’s hot and humid, and it’s also the rainiest time of the year! There are some upsides though – it tends to be less busy, and hotel rates are better! It’s going to be a personal decision of course, I’d say if you do go just make sure to prepare with lots of sunscreen, loose clothing and a hat 🙂

Have a great trip wherever you go!

Larry Spielman says

5th January 2019 at 8:51 pm

Wow, what a gift to discover your post! You have expanded my vision of the deep south. We have visited Charleston, Alanta, and Savannah and loved these locations. Planning this summer going from San Antonio to Mobile with extended time in New Orleans. Obviously we need to plan more time in the Mobile area. Any other words of wisdom for us?

5th January 2019 at 10:30 pm

Thanks very much 🙂 We were in Mobile during Mardi Gras, and we can definitely recommend a visit to the Mardi Gras Museum which is very good. However, we didn’t see much else during our time there. We were also just in San Antonio, I’m not sure if you’re from San Antonio or just starting there, but we did just publish a guide to San Antonio as well 🙂 Of course, if you’re from San Antonio I’m sure all this will be familiar to you!

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/things-to-do-san-antonio-texas/

Have a great trip!

5th January 2019 at 11:35 pm

Thanks – we will check out your suggestions, flying into San Antonio, train to New Orleans, then rent a car for Alabama. Thanks again.

5th January 2019 at 11:41 pm

My pleasure! Sounds like it’s going to be a great trip 😀 Let us know if you have any more questions!

Connie Fidler Glassford says

17th November 2018 at 4:47 am

I’ve been to a number of cities on your list and loved them all. My town Fairhope, across the bay from Mobile is a gem.

Larisa says

2nd November 2018 at 3:36 am

Great read as we are planing to come over in Dec next year for a road trip as a family of five and we need to do as much research as possible! Our itinerary will be ideally a 7 night Cruise from Galveston then Houston-Lafayette-Slidell-Tallheusee-Orlando-Savannah- Montgomgery-Jackson-Dallas and back to Houston. Excuse the mis-spellings.!

3rd November 2018 at 9:01 am

Sounds like an awesome trip Larisa!

Sherryl Rivers says

10th October 2018 at 7:32 pm

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mind.

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mined.

*****Ore was MINED…not MIND******

12th October 2018 at 3:41 am

Fixed! Thanks so much 🙂

David Shows says

15th August 2018 at 1:11 pm

As a Mississippian who grew up in Long Beach (next to Biloxi) and living in North Carolina let me complement you on your excellent choices. You nailed Charleston and Savannah, two of my favorite towns. For ship watchers, Savannah is one of the busiest ports in the United States, part of a railroad corridor that stretches across the U.S. to San Diego.

I’ve also lived in Mobile and Montgomery and they are two hidden gems. Montgomery has live music on the weekends and a Baseball park built on top of an old confederate barracks. Dauphin Island is near Mobile and it has miles of white sand beaches. If you are a seafood lover btw, I would try our oysters on the the Gulf Coast, in my very prejudiced opinion, some of best tasting anywhere. They can be fried, in a broth, or you can have them char-broiled, cooking in the half-shell with garlic.

I grew up two blocks from the beach, even moved back after Camille, and love the Gulf Coast beaches, where you can get a sunrise and a sunset! On the Coast we have a small town vibe but we have visitors year round, and there are two big military bases in Gulfport and Biloxi that contribute to the big net we cast.

Thanks for the great article! As we say on the Coast, don’t be a stranger! Come back when you can!

15th August 2018 at 8:23 pm

Thank you very much David, it’s always wonderful to hear from a local that we’ve managed to put something together that showcases their part of the world 😀 We certainly do want to come back sometime soon for the amazing food & people, not to mention all the scenery 🙂

12th August 2018 at 11:41 pm

We spent two weeks driving from California to visit the deep south. We stopped in New Orleans, Tallahassee, Savannah, and Charleston. We drove the backroads through deep Georgia and it was amazing! The people in the deep south are straight out of a character novel. They are warm and friendly and some of them say the quirkiest things! The food is phenomenal!! I gained 5 pounds over our trip and I do not regret one bite! We visited in July and the humidity definitely takes some getting used to but after about 3 days, my skin seemed to love it. The architecture, history, plantations, and culture are beautiful and fascinating. The cicadas and the sounds of the insects were truly magical and the lightning bugs!! Seeing the lightning bugs was definitely on my bucket list! So beautiful, like little twinkling fairies. We originally made the trip because we were considering moving out there in 2 years. After the trip, we pushed up our move to next year. We completely fell in love with the deep south. It was everything that I had hoped it would be!

13th August 2018 at 9:05 pm

I am so pleased that you had a wonderful time. The food really is amazing isn’t it? And you are so right about the people. Love that you are moving there a year early too – I hope it all goes well for you!

Have a great journey

Vanessa Perumal says

24th June 2018 at 12:30 pm

Such generous sharing thank you. From New York where would you start your road trip please

24th June 2018 at 10:45 pm

Hey Vanessa – are you thinking of flying from New York or driving? It’s quite a long drive from New York (11 or 12 hours straight driving), so you might prefer to fly to Charleston and start there 🙂

Martha Mason says

26th April 2018 at 7:39 pm

I’m born and raised in Alabama – with a few sojourns in California, New York and Chicago. If you come to Alabama again, make sure you hit Fairhope, a quaint, beautiful town across Mobile Bay from Mobile, AL. If you come this far, also visit Gulf Shores on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico – one of the secrets we keep from beach lovers so it stays pretty and white.

I enjoyed your article on the deep south trip and although I’ve been to all of the places you mentioned, your info. will send me back to those places again better informed.

26th April 2018 at 7:42 pm

Thanks Martha! We’re actually going to be in Alabama this September most likely, visiting Huntsville and some of the space related sights 🙂 Not sure how much time we have, but I’ll definitely keep your tips in mind – thanks very much!

Stephanie says

16th March 2018 at 12:04 pm

Wow this is awesome! I work in the school system So unfortunately summer is the only time my boys and I can travel. We live in Charlotte so we will hit the road this summer. I’ll be sure to prepare for the unbearable heat! We will have about 3 weeks! Thank you for sharing!

16th March 2018 at 4:30 pm

My pleasure, and thanks Stephanie. I’m sure you’ll be fine and are probably used to the heat anyway 🙂 Have a fantastic trip – three weeks is the perfect amount of time for it 😀

9th March 2018 at 8:03 pm

Just wondering how many days total did you spend on this trip:) thanks

9th March 2018 at 8:06 pm

Hi Susy 🙂 We spent five weeks doing the trip, but we spent a week of that in New Orleans at the end. For the suggested itinerary, we’d suggest a minimum of two weeks, and ideally three weeks if you can spare the time. You can see more in this section of the post: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/usa-deep-south-road-trip-itinerary/#How-Long-Does-a-Deep-South-Road-Trip-Take

11th February 2018 at 6:24 am

Thank you so much for this really informative itinerary! My boyfriend and I are doing a deep south road trip this summer and you’ve given us some great ideas which move away from the typical cities.

11th February 2018 at 10:51 am

My pleasure – have a really wonderful trip and do shout if you have any questions!

Melissa says

25th January 2018 at 8:20 pm

I LOVE THIS! I live in Hawaii, but doing a Road Trip around the South is on my bucket list. Thank you so much for the info and suggestions.

26th January 2018 at 12:39 am

Thanks Melissa! Have an awesome trip when you do it – we sure did 😀

Linda Aksomitis says

26th February 2017 at 5:22 pm

Love your article. There are so many of my favourite deep South destinations on it. As a Canadian, I need to get my Gulf Coast “fix” on a regular basis.

Laurence says

27th February 2017 at 2:48 pm

Thanks Linda! And we still feel there’s so much more to see down here 🙂

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An Epic 2-Week Southern U.S.A. Road Trip Itinerary

A Southern U.S.A. road trip is one of the most American road trips . 

We’ve been all over the United States since our last trip through the South, spending months in Louisiana and Georgia and what’s considered the Deep South.

While it’s certainly a different world down there, especially for gals from Chicago like me, it remains one of my favorite regions of the country for road trips.

A road trip through southern states like Tennessee, the Carolinas, and Alabama is delicious, historically and culturally significant, and, if you time things right, an escape from the winter chill.

Join me on a southern United States road trip that will rival all of the others.

Disclosure: Please note that the post below contains affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

A Southern U.S.A. Road Trip: Things to Know

We started in Chicago during our own road trip through the South the first time around, so this itinerary will start from the north and go south. You can certainly switch it up depending on your starting point, especially if you have to fly into a major city to make this happen.

As this itinerary details road trips in the South, you’ll need a car for this one. If you have your own fuel-efficient vehicle, that’s awesome.

If not, book a rental car at your arrival airport ahead of travel using an aggregator like Hotwire or Priceline . You’ll likely save money that way vs. picking up a car upon arrival wherever you land.

Where can I experience the Deep South?

You can experience the Deep South in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

I’ll be getting into all of those and more, as I’m taking the federal government’s approach to defining “the South” in this post. Here are the states they consider the South in ABC order:

• The District of Columbia
• Florida 
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• West Virginia

No, you won’t be able to hit all of those on this one road trip . This is basically a primer itinerary that gives you a feel of road trips in the region. You’ll certainly want to return as you continue ticking things off your U.S.A. bucket lists .

Also, Delaware is the South?!? Mind. Blown.

Want a visual of the stops I’ll suggest on your southern U.S.A. road trip itinerary? Click on the Google map link below:

GIMME MY SOUTHERN STATES ROAD TRIP MAP!

Days 1-2: memphis, tennessee.

Spend at least two full days in Memphis, especially if you’ve never been. You could spend one full day just eating all of that delicious barbecue if you’ve packed stretchy pants and stretchy pants alone. If you’re short on time and planning a seven-day Southern road itinerary, Tennessee is still a great place to start.

Oh, you are here just for the barbecue? Here are our favorites, in no particular order:

• Charlie Vergo’s Rendezvous*
• Cozy Corner BBQ
• The Bar-B-Q Shop

*This one was Brian’s favorite growing up. He spent quite a few of his formative years in Bartlett, just outside of Memphis. My barbecue palate isn’t as discerning, but if you want the goods from a barbecue snob, start there!

From there, pick and choose how you’d like to spend your time using my weekend itinerary for Memphis .

If you’re invested in this road trip guide , here are some things you shouldn’t miss if you’re short on time in Memphis, Tennessee:

• Allow iconic Beale Street to suck you in with promises of live music and a good time. This is where legends like Louis Armstrong and B.B. King found their footing.

• Visit The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum . Hear a sobering retelling of the start of slavery in Memphis in a home linked to the Underground Railroad.
• Tour Sun Studio . This is where some of the biggest names in music history recorded many of their hits. Elvis Presley himself frequented Sun Studio in his early years. The studio is still a working studio today.
• Spend a few hours at the National Civil Rights Museum , one of the best museums in Memphis . You’ll see the Lorraine Hotel while you’re there. That’s the site of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in 1968.
• Learn all about Stax Records at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music . This is another legendary studio in these parts. Isaac Hayes and Otis Redding both recorded here.

You’ll want to overnight in Memphis proper during this leg of your trip. Luckily, I have a guide to the best neighborhoods and Memphis accommodations for you to peruse.

Day 3: Tupelo, Mississippi

Start your day early. In a breezy couple of hours, you’ll be Tupelo, Mississippi, the birthplace of Elvis Presley.

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss while in Tupelo:

• Visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace . This is why you’re here, right? I mean, this is why we were here. See the modest home where the King of Rock and Roll was born and grew up and hold hands with a statue of a 13-year-old Elvis.

• Take a mural walk. Tupelo’s colorful past meets a colorful present in murals you’ll find in town. Start with the postcard-perfect Greetings from Tupelo downtown. Continue your Elvis education outside the Gardner-Watson Ice House Club.
• Sip on award-winning mead. Elvis doesn’t have to get all of your attention in Tupelo. Pop into Queen’s Reward Meadery , the first meadery in Mississippi, for some sneaky-strong honey mead.
• Pop into Tupelo Hardware Company. This hardware store is credited with selling Elvis Presley’s mother his first guitar. They still sell guitars there, by the way, on top of the usual fare you’d find in a hardware store.
• Travel some of the Natchez Trace Parkway. The parkway is over 400 miles of scenic road from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi, a town that’s on my to-do list for its old mansions.

Fun fact: For your convenience, the road cuts right through Tupelo.

If you have more time, spend the night. Otherwise, continue on for another two hours to your next stop: Birmingham. You’ll have a full day in the Alabama city, so feel free to linger in Tupelo on the way. 

Love that advice? I’d recommend booking with chain hotels in Birmingham like the Homewood Suites by Hilton .

While these hotels may not sound as exciting as boutique properties, your stay will be safe, consistent, and budget-friendly. I like the Homewood Suites in particular for its central location, spacious spaces (say that three times fast), and secure parking.

Want to comparison-shop? Use the map below:

Day 4: Birmingham, Alabama

Spend the day exploring the best of Birmingham. This is the seat of Jefferson County and where a good chunk of Alabamians call home. The historical threads of the civil rights movement persist in this town, especially if you hear the moniker “Bombingham” for the first time.

Explore that history and more with these Birmingham highlights :

• Try the sours at Avondale Brewing Company . Visit for a great selection of pours and an impressive outdoor space. If your tastes run a little funky as mine do, visit The Sour Room where they serve up sours and mouth-puckering cocktails.
• Face your fears at Vulcan Park. Brian got a little weird at this stop because of the heights and open grates, but the observation tower offers some of the best views of the city. The Vulcan itself is the biggest cast iron statue in the world.

• Stroll among the flowers at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens . This community treasure is the perfect place to reflect on all you’ve seen in town. Don’t miss the Japanese Garden. You walk through a red torii to get there.
• Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute . This Smithsonian Institution affiliate details key moments from the civil rights movement like the 1963 Children’s Crusade. The event was pivotal to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
• Stop at Kelly Ingram Park. If you’re traveling the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, this park is a key stop. It was once an assembly spot for a number of groups in the movement. It’s marked by powerful sculptures throughout the park.

If you’re following this itinerary as written, you’ll overnight in Birmingham again this evening. With more time in Alabama, I’d urge you to linger in two cities critical to the civil rights movement: Montgomery and Selma :

• Montgomery: Educate yourself at The Legacy Museum and its lynching memorial, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. See more things to do while you’re there in my guide to Montgomery .
• Selma: This historic city was the site of Bloody Sunday, a day named as such because of attacks on civil rights protesters by local police. See where it all happened using my guide to Selma .

Days 5-6: Atlanta, Georgia

About two hours and 15 minutes will get you to Atlanta, Georgia. I’m giving you an extra day here because you’re entering another time zone, and in case you’d like to linger some in Alabama. 

Atlanta gets a lot of attention for its very busy airport, but it’s an excellent stop to show off the diversity of the South from a cultural perspective. This is a hub of progress here while retaining the best of the region. 

I’m talking about the food and the hospitality, friends. 

While in Atlanta, here are a few popular tourist spots with a day or two in the city:

• See where the chicken (or the egg?) started at the Dwarf House. Travel to the nearby town of Hapeville to see the original Chick-fil-A site, although the building is no longer original.

Note: I have mixed feelings about the chicken chain because of their record of donations to anti-gay advocacy groups, but they’ve made efforts in recent years to refocus where they put their money. I haven’t been to one since, but it’s up to you and your comfort level with that history.

• Visit the well-designed Jimmy Carter Library and Museum . Take a deep dive into the lives of the Carters and peruse a wealth of historical artifacts from the Carter administration. Spend some time walking the grounds if it’s a nice day.
• Tour one of Atlanta’s most popular sites at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park . See where the iconic civil rights leader was born and came up during a time of segregation. The audio exhibits are particularly powerful.
• See The National Center for Civil and Human Rights , one of the country’s best civil rights museums. This museum wasn’t open yet during my trip to Atlanta, but I’m including it here for aspirational purposes. It looks stunning.
• Eat Atlanta’s best burgers at The Vortex Bar & Grill . My local pal brought me here, and I must say entering through a large skull is a little bit intimidating. Once you get over yourself, you will indeed be eating some delicious burgers.

I also visited the Clermont Lounge on my Atlanta trip upon request from a local friend, but I know it’s not for everyone. Do yourself a solid and Google it, and then decide for yourself whether it’s right for you.

Fun fact: At the very least, I feel like it led to quite a few stories that I’ve told throughout my life. Do with that what you will.

We stayed with friends on our trip to Atlanta, but the city has accommodations for you at every price point. Use the map below to get started:

Days 7-8: Savannah, Georgia

It’ll take you about four hours to get to Savannah from Atlanta. Start your driving early to make the most of your time in this magical place. If you’re traveling with your honey, I have a guide for you on visiting Savannah for couples .

If you haven’t guessed yet, Savannah is one of the most romantic cities in the country. That doesn’t mean you need a partner to make a trip here happen. Savannah is also delicious, welcoming, and full of sights to keep you busy for a few days.

No matter how you’re rolling, don’t miss these highlights:

• Find your favorite square in Savannah. Visit Chippewa Square to see where Forrest Gump mused about chocolates. Calhoun Square is the city’s most haunted, while Johnson Square is the oldest. There are so many squares here.

• Take a ghost tour in style with Hearse Ghost Tours . I’ll let you guess what you ride around in while you’re hearing spooky Savannah tales. It’s less scary and more comedy-focused, by the way.
• Tour the Mercer Williams House Museum. If you’re a fan of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil , you won’t want to miss this one.
• Indulge in a special meal at The Old Pink House . If you’re on a budget, no sweat. Grab a drink at the Planters Tavern in the basement of the eatery.
• Explore Tybee Island and Fort Pulaski National Monument . See where the Union Army forced the Confederates to surrender during the Civil War and the scenic Tybee Island Light Station. Follow that up with a trip to The Crab Shack.

You’ll overnight in Savannah proper for the duration of your stay. While you’re here, staying at a historic property is a very bucket listy thing to do. The Catherine Ward House Inn is steps away from Forsyth Park. Go on a square crawl from the Planters Inn on Reynolds Square as your base.

Enjoy your delicious breakfasts on historic Jones Street without worrying about toddlers lamenting over the lack of Cheerios at the Eliza Thompson House . This is an adults-only property.

Want more options? Check out the map below:

Days 9-10: Charleston, South Carolina

It’s just a few hours from Savannah to Charleston, another southern city that has to top some list of the most whimsical cities in the United States. I have a more detailed guide to Charleston for you, but if you don’t feel like jumping around, here are the highlights:

• Explore the French Quarter. Nope, you’re not in New Orleans. The Charleston version isn’t as intense, but it’s a hub of activity nonetheless. Shop at Charleston City Market or visit the Old Slave Mart Museum, a difficult but important stop.
• See the charming Pineapple Fountain. Visit Waterfront Park for the requisite Instagram photos in front of Charleston’s quintessential water feature.
• Marvel at the city’s historic homes. If you’re interested in touring a few, you can buy combo tickets for the Joseph Manigault House and the Heyward-Washington House. George Washington stayed at the latter in 1791.

• Sip on spirits at High Wire Distilling . If you’re not into bourbon, they have vodka. If you’re not into vodka, grow up. I’m mostly kidding, but you can probably just skip to the next thing then.
• Tour Fort Sumter , where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. You’ll need to take a boat to get there, but this one’s a must for history buffs.

We stayed outside of town as we waited too long to book, but I’d recommend that you stay as close to the action as possible while in Charleston to make the most of your time. I love the looks of the Andrew Pinckney Inn , a boutique hotel that dates back to 1840. Think about that while you’re snacking on a complimentary breakfast on their rooftop terrace.

Use the map below to peruse more options:

Days 11-12: Asheville, North Carolina

Another four hours of driving time get you to Asheville, one of my favorite cities in the country. While it may not feel as southern as some of the others, that’s why it’s a primo spot for tourism in the region. It’s quirky and hipster and such a good time.

I have a detailed guide for a weekend in Asheville , North Carolina, if you want to linger. Want the highlights? Here you go:

• Tour the Biltmore Estate . Budget a few hours for your visit to America’s largest home, but leave a few hours for a tasting at the Biltmore Winery, too. It was our favorite rainy-day activity on the grounds.

• Visit Thomas Wolfe’s boyhood home at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial . Come for the historical intrigue but stay for the gossip. Wolfe was messy .
• Stand in line for the grub at 12 Bones Smokehouse . This is former President Barack Obama’s favorite barbecue in the country. Also, Brian gave it an elusive “A” rating, so you know it’s legit.
• Drink all the craft beer . Asheville’s beer scene is stellar and worthy of your time. Highland Brewing Company is the oldest, but my favorite was Wicked Weed Brewing’s Funkatorium . I love my sours.
• Watch a glassblowing demonstration at Lexington Glassworks. It’s a little off the beaten path of most Asheville itineraries, but what they do here is truly a marvel.

Hang around in Asheville for the most efficient stay. I’d personally recommend the Clarion Inn Biltmore Village if you want easy access to the Biltmore or the Four Points by Sheraton Asheville Downtown . The latter offers walkability for Asheville’s downtown. I’ve done both, and had great stays!

Use the map below for even more options:

With more time, check out Charlotte and its brewery scene and day trips from Charlotte before you hit Asheville, or explore the North Carolina Triangle .

You can also add day trips from Asheville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a fantastic region of the country for lingering.

You’ll want enough time to experience the Blue Ridge Parkway at the very least. This is one of the most impressive drives in the country, so take your time along the way with my Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks guide.

Days 13-14: Nashville, Tennessee

It’ll take you about five hours to get to Nashville from Asheville, passing through Knoxville on the way. This is where you’ll end your road trip.  If you have more time, Nashville is a great place to spend it after a whirlwind tour of the South.

I’ve been to Nashville with both Brian and my mother on a mother-daughter trip . It works so well for both, especially if you’re at all into country music. (I’m not, and still always have a good time!) I have a Nashville weekend itinerary if you want to stay a while, but if you’re short on time, don’t miss these highlights:

• See what the Maxwell House coffee fortune built at the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens . While I didn’t notice any kind of coffee aroma while there, the live jazz in the garden is a welcome delight.

• Learn about country legends at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Upgrade your ticket to include a tour of the historic RCA Studio B to hear where Elvis recorded some of his early work.
• Hear the longest-running radio broadcast in the United States at the Grand Ole Opry . Listen to history in the making, even if you’re not a country fan.

• Indulge in yummy home cooking at Monell’s . The family-style dining at this popular Nashville eatery may bring folks like my mom out of their comfort zone, but I promise it’s worth it.
• Sample spirits in Marathon Village. This historic complex was once the site of Marathon Motor Works, a car manufacturing company. Today, visit for shops, casual eats, and distilleries.

Close out with overnights in Nashville. I’ve stayed at The Gallatin in East Nashville to save some money vs. staying in downtown Nashville. You’re still within easy access of all kinds of fun eateries at this one, so I promise you won’t feel like you’re missing out.

I stayed at the Hyatt House Nashville Airport with my mom during our bonding trip to Nashville and we both enjoyed the staff, breakfast, and cost-savings of staying closer to the airport. It’s a nice place for a quick trip, too.

More Stops on a Southern Road Trip

When we went nomadic after selling our house in San Diego , we knew we’d be spending time in warmer climates during the winter months. 

Note: We were completely acclimated to very little temperature change throughout the year, which I know isn’t sustainable in most places around the United States.

Where do you go when the snow starts hitting half the country? You head south on a Southern U.S. road trip and explore all the fun to be had in warmer pastures. (While we won’t go all the way to Florida here, it’s an option for some of the country’s best beaches and impressive Everglades National Park for long-term travelers.)

Still, there’s so much we have left to see, like Hilton Head Island with its luxe beaches and golf, and historic Natchez, Mississippi. We’ve seen a lot, though, and are so grateful for it.

Here are a few of our favorites, including stops to consider for a Deep South road trip in two weeks:

• Baton Rouge, Louisiana: We visited Baton Rouge on a New Orleans day trip, and I’m so glad we did. I wouldn’t know what beignet fingers were otherwise. You’ll just need to taste ’em for yourself.
• Charleston, West Virginia: This is a bit niche when it comes to road trips through the South, but you shouldn’t only give the Charleston in South Carolina all of your attention. Take me home, country roads. This Charleston’s also adorable.
• Houston, Texas: Yes, the traffic is terrible. If you plant yourself in Eado, or East Downtown, you won’t have to do much driving. If you want to hit the road, it’s close to Galveston and the Texas Gulf Coast and Galveston Island State Park.

• Little Rock, Arkansas: Come for Hot Springs National Park but stay for important stops like the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site. It’s one of the best guided tours in the country.
• Lockhart, Texas: If you love barbecue, you should prioritize a trip to a town with some of the best barbecue in the country . We had a literal meat crawl during our own trip to Lockhart. We suffered some after, but it was still worth it.
• Louisville, Kentucky: This town is big on bourbon but it’s also big on kitsch. Visit historic spots like the Louisville Slugger Museum and Churchill Downs, the host of the Kentucky Derby, to see what I mean.
• Mobile, Alabama: As soon as we left Mobile I knew we’d be back. It’s like New Orleans in miniature, and not just because it’s where the first Mardi Gras was held. Enjoy all of the delicious eats and watch out for gators.
• New Orleans, Louisiana: We spent a month exploring beyond the Mardi Gras thing and the French Quarter thing to really come to a better understanding of what makes New Orleans tick. Get off of Bourbon Street, people.

• Tulsa, Oklahoma: We spent a full month in this underrated Oklahoma town . It’s a great base for exploring the rest of the state , including Oklahoma City and towns like Tahlequah within the Cherokee Nation, and travel with your pup .

If you’re interested in expanding your road trips in the South with some of these ideas, I have some guides for you:

• Cute Things to Do in New Orleans for Couples
• All of the Best New Orleans Day Trips
• A Mobile Day Trip to Bayou La Batre
• Take a Drive on the Lake Pontchartrain Parkway
• Top Things to Do in Houston as a Traveling Couple

Is it safe to drive through the South? 

It is safe to drive through the South, but normal precautions apply. Don’t leave anything on your car seat and make yourself a target for petty crime. Pay attention to the rules of the road. In my opinion, all of the locations I’ll get into here are appropriate for solo travelers. 

That all said, I’m a white woman with a white husband. Not to get all alarmist on you, but the South still has a lot of work to do when it comes to racial equality and a more open-minded approach to ideas that may freak them out.

If you’re a traveler of color, the Confederate flags throughout the South may give you more pause. Some places feel stuck in time as if the Civil War happened differently. 

I look at them as a sign of ignorance, but there is still hate in the hearts of what I hope to be a weak minority of people in the region.

You may hear remarks based on lingering stereotypes or off-color jokes that wouldn’t fly elsewhere. Many of the cities are very much liberal enclaves with work being done to curb gun use, expand voter rights, and create welcoming communities for all.

Georgia is such a great example of a turning tide.

The smaller towns in the South are still very conservative, some even more so with a heightened political climate in recent years. I’ve found that some people just want a reaction when they say something absurd. You don’t need to give it to them.

The American South is worth your time on Deep South road trips, but it’s also worth your honest experiences.

As you navigate the best road trips in America through the South, do so with an open mind, but protect your own peace, too.

Ready for Exciting Southern U.S.A. Road Trips?

Your Flight: I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, you should use Skyscanner . It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

Scroll up for logistics on the best southern road trips, including where you should start on your own trip. If you’re kicking it off with Memphis, you’re likely to find some great deals out of Memphis International Airport.

For adventurous folks who travel on the reg, I also subscribe to Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get cheap flight deals from your home base straight to your inbox. It’s a great way to visit destinations you’ve always wanted to visit or that weren’t even on your radar.

Your Accommodations: I usually use Booking.com and Hotels.com for our hotel needs. Both offer loyalty programs and now offer listings that are more of the home or condo rental variety, which is great. Vrbo is my preferred Airbnb alternative. 

Scroll up for my top picks on accommodations throughout your southern road trip.

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.: For general travel goodies, visit my Favorite Things page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my Travel Tools page.

Love this guide to southern road trips? Pin me!

Spending more time in the South? Check out some more of my favorite places:

• Top Things to Do in Congaree National Park
• Visit Beautiful Lake Oconee, Georgia
• Things to Do in Athens, Georgia in One Day
• A Planning Guide for Augusta, Georgia
• A Complete Guide to Texas Wine Country

Ready to see more?

Subscribe to my biweekly newsletter for hot travel tips I come across, weird stories you won’t see elsewhere and perhaps lifelong friendship.

Too much, or just enough?

Agnes Groonwald

Best Southern Road Trips in the U.S.

By CNT Editors

New Orleans to Houston

When most people talk about making the drive from New Orleans to Houston, they do so begrudgingly—that needs to change. You can make this trip year-round, and see everything from antique bookstores to distilleries to contemporary art. Or do it for the food alone (we won’t judge).

Where to stop: Don’t miss the Texas Travel Information Center in Orange, right over the border. There’s a great photo op here with a giant lone star sculpture.

Where to eat: Order half a dozen buttermilk drops to go from the decade-old Buttermilk Drop Bakery in New Orleans’ Treme neighborhood. They will change your life—or at least how you think about doughnuts.

Where to stay: Check into the two-year-old Watermark Baton Rouge, a 144-room hotel housed in the former headquarters of the Louisiana Trust & Savings Bank. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi, the hotel is a three-minute walk to Louisiana's Old State Capitol, famed for its Gothic architecture and jaw-dropping stained glass rotunda.

We planned your five-day road trip through French Louisiana.

Atlanta to Jekyll Island

Hollywood has officially descended upon Georgia—making it the third-busiest filmmaking location behind Los Angeles and New York City. You probably knew you could eat fried green tomatoes like Jessica Tandy did in Juliette, Georgia, but what about tracing the zombie trail in the town from The Walking Dead ? Here, how to take a road-trip through your favorite scenes.

Where to stop: Stop about an hour southeast of Atlanta in Jackson, or as you may know it, Hawkins, Indiana. You’ll recognize the main square from various scenes in Stranger Things —the general store where Joyce Byers works, the alleyway where Jonathan fights Steve, and the public library where Dustin studies up on demogorgons.

Where to eat: Zesto Drive-In was featured on Atlanta for a reason: spring for the famous double-pattied Fat Boy burger with a giant Pibb-infused ice cream float.

Where to stay: Chateau Elan in Braselton is a must for Ozark fans—you’ll recognize it from episode eight, when Jason Bateman and Laura Linney go to visit their drug lord. But if that doesn’t entice you, the four golf courses, grand, newly-renovated wine-tasting room, and spa should do the trick.

We planned your three-day tour of Georgia's best filming locations.

Civil Rights Trail: Tennessee, Alabama, and Louisiana

There’s nothing like running a late-summer thunderstorm on a two-lane highway in the American South, roof pummeled by hail the size of golf balls, to test your nerves behind the wheel. But it’s only one small part of a put-me-in-my-place drive everyone should do, following a stretch of the Civil Rights Trail from Memphis to New Orleans by way of Alabama, where some of the country’s best social-justice museums confront the past head on—prompting those who pass through to look at the present in the same way.

Where to stop: After a visit to the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, pass through Montgomery, where the brand-new National Memorial to Peace and Justice has been making headlines as the country’s first memorial to lynching victims, before parking for a weekend in New Orleans. A different kind of education happens here, where local artists like muralist Brandan Odums feed a national conversation on race and class.

Where to eat: Stop in Birmingham to decompress at the James Beard-winning Highlands Bar and Grille .

Where to stay: Once you get to your final destination in NOLA, there are plenty of hotel options, but we'd pick the Henry Howard Hotel or the Pontchartrain Hotel , both just far enough removed from the craziness of the French Quarter.

Houston to El Paso

What we’re going to tell you is not surprising: Texas is a big state. By the time you drive from east to west, you could have passed through five European countries. But as diverse as France is from the Czech Republic, South Texas is from West Texas. You may not be able to hit up the whole state in one road trip—unless you have a month to spare—but our 1,022-mile itinerary from Houston to El Paso, with an optional stop in New Mexico, will cover all of the highlights.

Where to stop: Marfa has become a bucket list trip for anyone who's tapped into culture. Here, there are 16 galleries, one for every 124 residents of this isolated town, in addition to the Chinati Foundation, which holds hundreds of works by Dan Flavin, John Chamberlain, Donald Judd, and more. The key to tackling Marfa is timing, as restaurants have odd hours and can be closed unexpectedly. Your best bet falls between Thursday and Sunday.

Where to eat: On the way to Austin, make a lunch pit stop in Lockhart. With three standout barbecue restaurants, you’ll have to leave your ego at the door and join the ranks of brisket and rib enthusiasts eating with their hands off butcher paper “plates.” Stop at least one joint from the town’s holy trifecta: Kreuz Market , Black’s Barbeque , or Smitty's Market .

Where to stay: San Antonio’s Pearl District should be your starting point, with home base at the offbeat Hotel Emma , which itself is plenty of reason to visit San Antonio.

We planned the ultimate Texas road trip.

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12 Sensational Southern USA Road Trip Ideas

No country in the world does road trips quite like the United States, and Southern USA is where you’ll find some of the best of them. 

A Deep South USA road trip is an experience like no other. Thanks to its humongous size and the plethora of states it contains, the southern region of the USA provides some of the best roads and highways out there, each one with a very different cultural flavor and scenery than the last! 

From overseas highways above turquoise waters to endless deserts and towns that brim with history, each and every single southern states road trip has something interesting on offer. 

Below, we share some of the best southern road trips every single traveler needs to do at least once in their life! 

12 Sensational Southern USA Road Trips 

1. Miami to Key West Overseas Highway (Highway 1), Florida 

Taking you all the way from Miami to Key West through over-the-ocean bridges that connect the Keys, this mesmerizing highway is one of the most classic southern states road trips and a favorite for those who love sunny days and endless beaches. 

It goes without saying that the scenery along its 113 miles is as spectacular as it gets. Each and every mile, you’ll be treated to beautiful ocean views and white sand beaches as you make your way to Key West. 

While the trip can be completed in less than a day, it’s recommended to spend several days on this trip as there are plenty of incredible destinations worth making a stop at to explore. Top highlights include Key Largo, Islamorada, Bahia Honda State Park , and the underwater John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park . 

The best time of the year to do this southern states road trip is between March and May when hurricane season is over and the winter crowds have tapered off. 

2. Skyline Drive, Virginia 

Starting in Richmond, the Skyline Drive will have you seeing some of the best the state of Virginia has to offer as you make your way to the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.  

Even though this road is only 105 miles long, it can very well be turned into a multi-day southern road trip as there are plenty of stops worth making along the way for hiking aficionados. 

The drive will take you along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains inside Shenandoah National Park . All along the highway, you’ll find plenty of trailheads to park your car and go for a hike, as well as several campsites for those who want to spend the night inside the park.  

The best time to do the Skyline Drive is September through November, when the park gets wrapped up in gorgeous fall foliage. 

3. Chipley to Rainbow Springs State Park, Florida 

If you’re up for a few days spent chasing waterfalls, this southern states road trip through Florida is guaranteed to please. 

Starting in Chipley Falling Waters State Park , you’ll make your way all the way to Rainbow Springs State Park . Along the route, you’ll get to see the highest waterfalls in Florida, gaze at plenty of natural sinkholes, and spend a few hours exploring Torreya State Park .

Moreover, you’ll also get the option to stop at plenty of other parks such as the Big Shoals State Park and Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park , where you’ll be able to see a series of waterfalls crashing down into a sinkhole that contains an actual mini rainforest!  

This road trip can be done any time of the year but keep in mind that the summer months are usually the warmest and wettest. With that said, summers are when the waterfalls look the most impressive due to the rain, so take your pick! 

4. Pineywoods Autumn Trail, Texas 

Vineyards, fairytale-like forests, and autumn colors are the staples of the Pineywood Autumn Trail in Texas . 

While it’s much lesser known than other southern states road trip routes, this 145-mile loop between Palestine and Athens will have you passing plenty of forests and parks worth making a stop at to take a walk and truly take in the golden and crimson tones. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also fly above the fall foliage at Texas ZipLine Adventures! 

As if that weren’t enough, Pineywood is also dotted by tons of idyllic lakes and vineyards. This route includes the Tara Vineyard & Winery for those keen to get a taste of Texas’s hidden wine country , but if you still haven’t gotten your fill of grapes, you can continue the road trip onwards over the Piney Woods Wine Trail, which is dotted by over 20 wineries.  

Autumn is definitely the best time to do this road trip, especially considering it’s a mecca for fall hues. If you’re unable to do it at this time of the year, spring is another great choice for mild weather and colorful blooms. 

5. Tuscaloosa to Eutaw, Alabama 

If you love all things vintage, artsy vibes, places that feel as local as they get, and historical architecture, this Alabama scenic road trip is everything you’ve been looking for. 

As you make your way from Tuscaloosa to Eutaw in West Alameda, you’ll pass plenty of antique shops, art galleries galore, and a plethora of antebellum mansions, not to mention you’ll also get the chance to make a few detours. 

A few highlights of this road trip include the Courthouse Square in Eutaw , the lakes that surround the town of Livingston, and getting to drive over the Alamuchee-Bellamy Covered Bridge , a wooden bridge that is said to be haunted by an outlaw who was hanged there! 

Spring and fall are the best time of the year to do this road trip as the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers are also pleasant for warm-weather lovers, although this is the high season in Alabama and cities like Tuscaloosa can get pretty crowded. 

6. Haunted Oklahoma, Oklahoma 

Love all things haunted? If you consider yourself a bit of a daredevil, this deep south road trip is definitely one to remember!  

This sensational road trip travels through some of Oklahoma’s most haunted cities, including Tulsa, Ponca City, Alva, and El Reno before looping its way back to Oklahoma City . 

All of these spots are great to spend the night in, but the main reason to visit them is to check out a few of its most haunted buildings. Highlights in Tulsa include the Gandini’s Circus in Edmond, an abandoned carnival, the Hex House , and Cain’s Ballroom.

In Ponca City, visit the Constantine Theater & Poncan Theater, which are said to be incredibly haunted and don’t forget to check out the Cherokee Strip Museum in Alva, which is believed to be extremely ghost-ridden. 

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The best time to do this Oklahoma road trip is from late March to early June and September to November when the weather is temperate. Bonus points if you do it in late October for Halloween! 

7. Outer Banks Scenic Byway, North Carolina 

Starting in Nags Head, this scenic byway runs all the way to Ocracoke Island and back to the mainland (yes, a ferry journey is included here!). 

As one of the most iconic routes in North Carolina, this road trip in the southern US is a great addition to your bucket list, taking you through one of the most popular vacation destinations on the US east coast . 

Along the way, you’ll get to visit Bodie Island , Cape Hatteras , and if you like hiking, you can also spend a few hours exploring the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge . Ocracoke Island is another must-do stop for beautiful beaches, and if you’re feeling up for a day trip, you can hire a boat to the alluring Portsmouth Island.  

The best time of the year to do this road trip is between April to mid-June and early September to late October. 

8. Haunted Louisiana, Louisiana 

Another of the best southern USA road trips for those who love all things spooky, this incredible route will have you checking out some of the most beautiful (and haunted) sites in a state that is already infamous for its paranormal activity. 

The route begins in Keachi and ends in Fort Proctor , following mostly the I-49. Along the way, you’ll get to make stops at deserted schools, sugar plantations, and plenty of mills. There’s even an abandoned Six Flax on the way – it’s illegal to enter the premises, but even the sight from the road is enough to send chills down your spine! 

Must-do stops include Laurel Valley Sugar Plantation , Fort Proctor, Elise Reuss Memorial School, Charles Boldt Paper Mill, Kisatchie High School , and Keachi Women’s College.  

Louisiana is best visited between mid-February to early May and from October to December for mild weather. This road trip is a great idea for a Halloween adventure, or you can combine it with a Mardi Gras trip in February instead! 

9. Tennessee Waterfalls Road Trip, Tennessee 

If you love nature and all things waterfalls, the Tennessee Waterfalls route is one of the best southern road trips to take for outdoor adventures. 

This gorgeous drive will show you some of the best the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer. The drive starts at Cumming Falls on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River, where you can freshen up and swim before continuing to Burgess Falls to check out four different waterfalls. 

Next, you can make a stop at Falls Creek Falls and finish up the trip at Twin Falls to end the trip with a bang! 

This road trip is a summer favorite, but fall is also a great time to do it for fall foliage – you can catch all our favorite Smoky Mountain scenic drives here.

10. Hilton Head to Charleston, South Carolina 

Starting on Hilton Head, an island just off the coast of South Carolina, this epic road trip will have you seeing the absolute best the Palmetto State has to offer. 

The drive is technically only 90 miles long, but there are plenty of wonderful spots to overnight in if you have the time. As you make your way to Charleston, you’ll get the chance to enjoy plenty of coastal scenery and small-town charm.

Stops worth making include Hunting Island State Park for secluded beaches, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge for wildlife spotting, and Beaufort for antebellum mansions. 

Summer is the best time to do this road trip for perfect beach weather. 

11. Midland Trail, West Virginia 

Gorgeous nature, charming historical towns, local art, pioneer history, pretty waterfalls, and plenty of mystery are just a few of the aspects that make this deep south USA road trip a true gem. 

Covering over 100 miles between Charleston and Sam Black Church in West Virginia , this scenic byway crosses some of the most rugged areas of the Mountain State. The road is believed to have been originally carved out into the mountains by buffalo and native tribes of the area. 

Some of the top highlights to check out for nature include Hawks Nest State Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve , while historical sites that are musts include The Ruffner Log Cabin , Salt Village, Old Stone House, and the colonial town of Lewisburg. 

Fall is a great time to do this road trip for beautiful autumn colors, but spring and late summer are perfect for comfortable weather. 

12. The Blues Highway, Tennessee and Mississippi 

Along this epic road trip, you’ll get to visit some of the places where rock and roll, rhythm and blues, jazz, and country music were born, inspired by the melodies of the cotton fields of the Mississippi Delta . 

The Blues Highway follows Route 61 between Memphis and Vicksburg, taking you right into the heart of American Music.  

Must-do stops include the Gateway to the Blues Museum in Tunica, the Delta Blues Museum and Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, and the Back in the Day Museum in Greenwood, where you can also visit the grave of Robert Johnson. 

Memphis is full of kid-friendly attractions including the acclaimed Children’s Museum and Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest urban parks in America. Ride the trolley and stroll historic Beale Street during the day.

Further on, make a stop at Yazoo County for authentic Bentonia Blues at the Blue Front Café before heading to Indianola to check out the B.B. King Museum . The Mississippi Grammy Museum in Cleveland is also a treat, and a can’t-miss stop is the Dockery Plantation , where the genre was born! 

More Great US Road Trips

If you’re looking for more great US road trip inspiration, you may want to check out next:

• The Best American Road Trips To Take With Your Kids
• The Best of the Midwest – Unmissable Family Road Trips
• Taking on the US East Coast National Parks in One Epic Road Trip

© Family Road Trip

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The Best Cross-country U.S. Road Trip Itinerary: Southern Route

Where to stay, eat, and sightsee, from Los Angeles to Virginia — or vice-versa.

Driving cross-country is the ultimate trip for the adventurous soul. If you are in need of varied landscapes, picturesque viewpoints, and impressive, relaxing stays, then this route is for you. Here we mapped out the must-see stops and roadside attractions along the southern route from the Southwest to the Southeast. Not to worry, this trip can be accomplished starting from whichever coast you prefer, so pack your bags and let's get started.

Los Angeles, California

As you depart Los Angeles , a city known for its bustling downtown and landmark attractions and neighborhoods, stop by Alcove Cafe and Bakery near Griffith Park for a unique take on classic breakfast favorites before continuing east. If starting your trip from the East Coast, Los Angeles will be your final stop on the route, so an overnight stay at The Hoxton in Downtown LA will be much-needed — this chic hotel is the ideal combination of phenomenal views over Broadway and Old Hollywood glam. Grab dinner and drinks at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Hollywood, an iconic restaurant serving world-renowned, traditional Neapolitan pizza, as well as handmade pastas.

Sedona, Arizona

No road trip through Arizona would be complete without a visit to Grand Canyon National Park . Plan to arrive at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon — as this part of the park is open year-round — and stop at one of the breathtaking viewpoints to absorb its magnificence. Continue on to Sedona where you will be enamored by the beautifully colored red rock formations. Right before sunset, follow the short walk up to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which was built into the buttes, for a beautiful panoramic vista. Stay at Amara Resort and Spa for an upscale retreat with spectacular views of the red-rock buttes.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

This enchanting city is known as a richly artistic and culturally distinctive place with a deep-rooted history. Spend the day exploring the Canyon Road art galleries to get a taste of the vibrant display of both traditional and contemporary art. Dine at The Shed for a timeless take on New Mexican cuisine in a bright, exciting atmosphere. After you have had your fill of margaritas and enchiladas, make your way back to the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi for a luxurious stay in a classic adobe-style hotel a short walk from the downtown Santa Fe Plaza.

Amarillo, Texas

For a short visit to Amarillo, a stop along Route 66 at Cadillac Ranch is a must. Here you will find a row of 10 spray-painted Cadillacs buried nose-first, which comprise an art installation and public sculpture. Come add your own spray paint and leave your mark on Amarillo. Stay at The Big Texan Airbnb — a lodging experience and partnership from The Big Texan and Amarillo's Airbnb Superhost — right across from The Big Texan Steak Ranch , a historic landmark and Texas attraction known for its 72-oz. steak eating contest.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

As you head out to Oklahoma, make a pit stop off Route 66 in Stroud, near Oklahoma City, at Rock Cafe , which served as the inspiration behind Disney's Cars movies. The cafe showcases Cars movie posters and other items left by the crew, as well as other gifts from the owner's time helping with the movie.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

When visiting Hot Springs , spend time hiking through Hot Springs National Park before making your way to Bathhouse Row. Here you can visit the historic eight bathhouses built over the natural hot springs — only two of which remain open today, the Quapaw and the Buckstaff. Check out Superior Crafthouse Brewery for the only craft brewery that uses the thermal water of the hot springs in its beer. Stay overnight at The Waters Hotel , where you can see Bathhouse Row and Hot Springs National Park from your window.

Memphis, Tennessee

Take a step into the "Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll" with a short trip to Memphis. Be sure to stop by Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion for a tour before enjoying Elvis's favorite peanut butter and banana sandwich at The Arcade . This vibrant and eclectic city is also home to Beale Street, a must-visit place to soak up the live blues music and nearby restaurants and shops.

Nashville, Tennessee

Known for its prolific country music scene, lively downtown nightlife on Broadway, and local eateries serving Southern comfort food staples, Nashville is sure to leave you enamored. For an inventive spin on the classic biscuit breakfast, stop by Biscuit Love , and for its 23 daily scratch-made varieties of pancakes, stop by The Pancake Pantry . Affectionately nicknamed Music City, Nashville is home to such iconic live music spots as The Bluebird Cafe , the Grand Ole Opry , and the Ryman Auditorium . After shopping your way through 12 South and The Gulch, check in for the night at the nearby Thompson Hotel , and go up to its LA Jackson rooftop bar for cocktails with a skyline view. Dine at The Pharmacy for a burger parlor and beer garden serving creative burgers or Whiskey Kitchen for its sophisticated take on Southern classics. End the night checking out the live music at some of the many honky tonk bars on Broadway.

Asheville, North Carolina

Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is the quintessential mountain town with gorgeous vistas and a rich history. For a short visit to Asheville, start by hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail before checking out the shopping at the historic downtown Grove Arcade . Be sure to save time to drive part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a National Parkway known for showcasing the serene beauty of North Carolina. Dine at Buxton Hall Barbecue for a sample of authentic Carolina-style barbecue.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Congratulations, you completed your cross-country road trip! No better way to celebrate than ending your trip in Charlottesville's wine country with an overnight stay at The 1804 Inn at Barboursville Vineyards, one of the best wineries in the area. Here you will find a stunning landscape, cozy cottage suites, and on-site wine tasting. If you are beginning your road trip from the East Coast, then Virginia will be your first stop on the route (lucky you!), so be sure to set aside some time to explore all that Charlottesville has to offer before heading west.

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8 Exciting Southern USA Road Trips

03/14/2021 by Emily Becker 1 Comment

The American South is home to some of the most diverse landscapes and even some of the most diverse populations that the USA has to offer, making it a fantastic place to take a road trip. Whether you are looking for a quick weekend trip or a longer, more elaborate one, we’ve got you covered with these awesome routes:

Table of Contents

8. Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA

This epic road trip can be started in either of these iconic southern cities and takes you through a part of the deep south that is rich in history and culture. This is certainly a trip for those of you who have a bit more time on your hands, as it’s longer in distance and covers many cities that you may want to spend more time in:

• Houston, TX: Visit the Space Center and get your fill of the wonderous scientific world of NASA. Take a walk on the Kemah Boardwalk where you can take in Galveston Bay and even get some local eats such as gumbo, fresh oysters, or hush puppies.
• Golden Triangle, TX: Comprised of Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange, this vibrant area is home to the Museum of the Gulf Coast and the Art Museum of South Texas . Make a quick stop or stay a while, as the area is known for its delicious seafood.
• Lafayette, LA: This southern city is known for its historic villages, Vermilionville and Acadian Village, which are the best places to take in the culture through live music, dance, and local handicrafts.
• Baton Rouge, LA: Don’t miss the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and Baton Rouge Zoo as you make your way through this vibrant city. Nearby you can find the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge which goes over the iconic Louisiana swamp land.
• New Orleans, LA: It goes without saying that Nola is on most of our bucket lists, and for good reason. Known for its vibrant music scene and impressive gastronomy, get immersed in the culture by strolling along Royal Street or taking a free walking Voodoo tour .

7. Nashville, TN to Atlanta, GA

Another longer trip on this list, this one will take you from the Tennessee hills all the way to the deep south. Get ready to see the landscape change as you embark on your journey:

• Nashville, TN: This musical city is full of stellar restaurants, bars, and museums alike. Check out the original venue of the Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman Auditorium and make sure not to miss the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum .
• Chattanooga, TN: Certainly underrated, this charming city is a great place to get your fill of the outdoors. Catch a sunset at The Pedestrian Bridge or take a hike to Foster Falls at South Cumberland State Park .
• Franklin, TN: Known as Tennessee’s best kept secret, this quaint city is known for its southern charm and chic atmosphere. It has quite a few Civil War sites and even a couple whiskey distilleries that are certainly worth stopping at.
• Birmingham, AL: A visit to Birmingham, no matter how long or short, would not be complete without a visit to the Civil Rights District. There you can find the U.S. Civil Rights Trail which includes the Civil Rights Institute , which has a wealth of exhibits and projects to explore. The city is also famous for its BBQ, especially at places like Dreamland and Saw’s . Birmingham is the beginning of the Civil Rights Trail, too!
• Montgomery, AL: Also along the Civil Rights Trail, this city is a great stop for history buffs. The Legacy Museum is known to be one of the most important and influential places in the city.
• Atlanta, GA: Atlanta is a cultural hub of the south, the birthplace of Martin Luther King, Jr., and definitely worth spending time in. Visit the Center for Civil and Human Rights or take a tour in the King Historic District for an engaging look at the city’s rich history.

6. Charlotte, NC to Jacksonville, FL

The drive from Charlotte to Jacksonville is about 6 hours nonstop, but can be stretched out as long as you have the time for. These stops along the way highlight some of the best places in the south:

• Charlotte, NC: The list of things to do in this lively city is quite long, making it a great place to start a trip. Don’t miss the Billy Graham Library and the Mint Museum, which are both unique to Charlotte.
• Columbia, SC: On your way south, stop in Columbia and do some shopping at the Soda City Market before heading to nearby Congaree National Park for a scenic hike.
• Charleston, SC: Another southern bucket-list city, Charleston is charming and brimming with historic landmarks, green spaces, and great food. Take a house tour at Middleton Place or explore the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens to get a feel for the city’s architecture and history.
• Savannah, GA: Savannah is a southern icon, and for good reason. Explore the city on foot and enjoy the charming architecture. For more ideas on where to go and what to do, check out our Savannah Guide !
• Jacksonville, FL: As you make your way further south along the coast, consider stopping at St. Simons Island or Fernandina Beach before making it to Jacksonville. Soak up the beauty of the beach at Little Talbot State Park or Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.

Jacksonville’s chill beach atmosphere is the perfect way to bring this road trip to a close after the bustle of these vibrant southern cities, which could all be a trip destination on their own.

5. Tampa to Miami, FL

From one coast to another, driving from Tampa to Miami is a delight. Not only will you get to soak up the sun on some of Florida’s best beaches, but you can also get your fill of outdoor adventure at Everglades as well.

• Tampa : Take a drive on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge before parking the car to stroll along the Tampa River Walk. There, you can take a river taxi for an even better way to see the sights.
• Sarasota : Head south to Sarasota and discover that this wonderful city has more to offer than just its famous beaches. Myakka River State Park is one of the oldest and largest state parks and a great place to get acquainted with wildlife.
• Fort Myers: Another great place to enjoy nature, Fort Myers has a lot to offer for those who love water such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Make sure to stop at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve where you can learn more about local wildlife preservation efforts.
• Naples: This small beach city is known for its stunning ocean views and gorgeous parks. The Naples Botanical Garden and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary are both popular attractions that capture the area’s beauty.
• Marco Island: Smaller and less crowded than most beaches in Florida, Marco Island is the perfect place to relax. Head over to Keewaydin Island where there are no cars, roads or bridges to get a real taste of island life. South Marco beach is where you can find turquoise water and pristine white sand.
• Everglades National Park : As you drive east towards Miami, you’ll cut right through the Everglades. The park itself is full of wildlife and plantlife to marvel at.
• Miami: Miami is a great destination on its own, let alone a fun place to wrap up an epic road trip like this one. Get a feel for the iconic street art at Wynwood Walls and try a cuban sandwich in Little Havana before heading out to salsa dance the night away.

4. St. Louis, MO to Jackson, MS

Technically beginning in the midwestern city of St. Louis, this southern road trip is a great one for those of you who love history and the outdoors. There are plenty of great museums and attractions along this route, so buckle up for an intellectual journey!

• St. Louis, MO: St. Louis made our list for Midwestern road trips and it’s actually a great place to start a trip down south, too. Gear up for your trip by visiting the iconic Gateway Arch and Forest Park, which was the site of the World’s Fairgrounds during the Louisiana purchase Exposition in 1904. Such a cool history!
• Cape Girardeau, MO: Moving south, stop here to see the Missouri Wall of Fame and the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center.
• Sikeston, MO: This town doesn’t have much going on, but you’re in for a treat if you can stop in to Lambert’s Cafe, Home of the Throwed Rolls. Yes, “throwed rolls” is literal here. It’s typical southern food served in troughs and thrown through the air from trained roll throwing waiters. It’s a whole sensory experience and worth a stop.
• Memphis, TN: A trip to this musical city would not be complete without a stop at Sun Studio historic site and Graceland museum. Another top spot in Memphis is the National Civil Rights Museum, which gives visitors a comprehensive picture of the Civil Rights movement in the USA. It’s another important stop on The Civil Rights Trail, too!
• Jackson, MS: Here you can find the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum to continue your educational journey and U.S. Civil Rights Trail experience through the south. This historic city is home to many other amazing museums and has an impressive collection of distilleries that can be enjoyed as well.

3. Austin to Corpus Christi, TX

There is much more to Texas than cowboy hats and giant truck stops, I promise. This trip will take you to some of Texas’s most hip and diverse cities and even a couple stunning outdoorsy locations.

• Austin: This city is known for its abundant green spaces and proximity to many outdoor destinations. It’s a great place to kick off a road trip! Check out the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake or spend the day meandering around Mount Bonnell before you start your journey east.
• San Marcos: This is a quick stop, as the main attraction is the beautiful San Marcos River. Depending on your level of adrenaline seeking, you can enjoy the river by floating down it on a tube, kayak, or white water raft through its rougher areas.
• San Antonio: A city known for its eclectic mix of southern and Mexican culture, San Antonio is a great place to catch a live music show, explore art galleries, and chow down on some awesome food. The Natural Bridge Caverns are a must-see while you’re here and don’t forget to take a stroll on the famous San Antonio River Walk.
• Three Rivers: Another quick stop on this trip, Three Rivers is home to Choke Canyon State Park . The park is a great place to get out for a swim, take a hike, or even camp!
• Corpus Christi: Located next to the Padre Island National Seashore , Corpus Christi is the ideal place to have a relaxing end to your trip. If you’re around in the summer, you might be able to see the hatching and release of baby sea turtles!

2. Oklahoma City, OK to Hot Springs, AR

This trip encompasses many things that make the South unique from the rest of the United States. It really covers all the southern bases; Native American History, Civil Rights History, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation.

• Oklahoma City, OK: Get into the spirit of the south at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum or the American Banjo Museum. You can also check out some native plants at the Myriad Botanical Gardens and Will Rogers Park.
• Tulsa, OK: This city is a great place to get acquainted with Native American history and culture. Don’t miss the Gilcrease Museum and The Cave House for an exciting journey through time. Check out the Gathering Place while you’re there and have a blast at the adult-sized playground.
• Ozark, AR: Make your way to the Pig Trail Scenic Byway to take in the beauty of the forest. From there, you can make a stop at Byrd’s Adventure Center for a quick canoe or kayak ride on the Mulberry River.
• Little Rock, AR: Before heading into the city, stop at Pinnacle Mountain State Park for a hike. From there, make your way into the heart of Little Rock and check out the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, which chronicles the history of desegregation in the USA and is part of the U.S. Civil RIghts Trail.
• Hot Springs, AR: This quaint city has made a couple lists here on BMTM and for good reason. It is home to Hot Springs National Park , which is the smallest national park in the USA and has some nice short hikes and calming hot springs.
• Ouachita National Forest: Right outside of Hot Springs, you’ll find the Ouachita National Forest. There, you can camp, mountain bike, hike, and so much more .

1. Charlotte, NC to Nashville, TN

Yes, there are two trips on this list that begin in Charlotte. That’s because there really is so much to do there! This time heading north towards Tennessee, this road trip will take you to some of the South’s most beautiful scenic drives that you won’t want to miss.

• Charlotte, NC: Another great stop in Charlotte is the Levine Museum of the New South, where you can get a post-Civil War history lesson. If NASCAR is your thing, Charlotte is also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
• Asheville, NC: This southern city has become a magnet for young people looking for a hip place to call home. It’s known for its nearby natural wonders and neat architecture, along with its iconic folk music scene. Go for Mountaintop Tour at Navitat Canopy Adventures and visit the Biltmore Estate before you leave.
• Nantahala National Forest: The largest forest in North Carolina, this one could keep you occupied for days on end. Here you can go whitewater rafting, mountain biking, or horseback riding before pitching a tent to camp for the night.
• Knoxville, TN: Knoxville is a charmer, I’m warning you. It’s known for its neat blend of new and old with places like the historic Tennessee Theatre situated closely to the ultra-modern Knoxville Museum of Art. Go for a stroll in Market Square or for a hike at Ijams Nature Center .
• Crab Orchard, TN: This town is worth a stop as it is home to the Catoosa Wildlife Management Area . Known for its scenic hikes and birdwatching, it makes a great place to get out and stretch your legs before heading to Nashville.
• Nashville, TN: Just like it’s a great place to start a road trip, Nashville is also a stellar place to end one. Stay as long as you’d like and explore the music and food scene of this iconic city before heading home.

First Name:

Each of these trips have something different to offer, making it a great place to start planning your next big road trip adventure. The South is brimming with history that is best learned through experience; walking through museums, visiting historical sites, and taking in the place where everything happened.

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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Alli Griffiths says

05/13/2021 at 11:13 am

#1 Best USA road trip is Miami to Key West!

How to road trip the Southeastern US on a budget in 2022

Feb 4, 2022 • 4 min read

Experience the best of the southeast corner of the US on this wallet-friendly road trip © Pgiam / Getty

From North Carolina to Florida , experience the splendor of the mountains, immerse yourself in history and savor a taste of upscale comfort food on one of America’s most scenic drives.

If you’re looking for a road trip that delivers some of the highest highlights of the Southeast, we’ve put together a peerless itinerary that takes you from the biggest city in North Carolina to the oldest city in America, with plenty of good eats, arts and natural beauty along the way. 

Charlotte, North Carolina

Your Southeast road trip begins with a taste of Charlotte , North Carolina. The largest city in the “First in Flight” State, Charlotte offers a menu of contemporary Southern cuisine like the exquisite BBQ at Midwood Smokehouse , several important art collections including the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art  and the unique Levine Museum of the New South with its focus on events after the Civil War. A stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must for racing enthusiasts and newbies alike.

Top 12 beaches in North Carolina

Boone & Blowing Rock, North Carolina

From Charlotte, you’ll head north (don’t worry, we’ll get you down to South Carolina , Georgia and Florida eventually) for about two hours on I-77 and US 421 to the scenic Boone and Blowing Rock region. The epicenter of beauty here is the stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway that passes through the region on its way from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee , boasting seemingly endless hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Don’t miss the chance to witness living history with the costumed actors at Hickory Ridge Museum, and get to know the flora of the Boone area at its namesake Daniel Boone Native Gardens. In nearby Blowing Rock, spend the day at Ultimate Adventure park with zip lines and other out-of-this-world pursuits. Rest your head at reliable lodging like the Inn at Crestwood , in Boone.

Asheville, North Carolina

The drive from Boone to Asheville , less than two hours south on US 221, takes you into the heart of one of America’s hippest small cities, brimming over with culinary delights (including a delicious and imaginative vegan scene), craft beer and vibrant local arts. But the great outdoors will most likely dominate your Asheville stay, including canopy tours, hot air ballooning and zip-lining. After hours, consider the reasonably priced  Residences at Biltmore , starting at under $120/night.

The best mountain lakes and beaches in Asheville, North Carolina

Greenville, South Carolina

About an hour and 15 minutes from Asheville on I-26 East and US-25 South, Greenville , South Carolina, beckons with an exceptionally walkable downtown that boasts cool shopping, artist studios and galleries, and great food (including the Greenville BBQ Trail Tour ). Start your morning with a cup of coffee at Falls Park before you traverse the Liberty Bridge , a 345ft-long span over the Reedy River. A variety of comfy motels offer rooms at well under $100/night, and for a little over $100/night you can get a room at the Hyatt Place Greenville/Haywood .

Alpharetta, Georgia

From Greenville, head south on I-85 for about two hours and 15 minutes and discover Alpharetta, Georgia. Explore more than 750 acres of parkland, try some of the 200+ restaurants like Cabernet Steakhouse or Chiringa with its coastal cuisine. Be sure to set aside your evening for music at one of the world’s finest jazz clubs, The Velvet Note .

Savannah, Georgia

A four-hour drive from Alpharetta on I-75 South and I-16 East brings you to the uniquely charming city of Savannah . Take your pick of activities, including strolling along Bull Street from square to square to Forsyth’s Park discovering the city’s decidedly European flavors; visit the Savannah College of Art and Design with its exceptional SCAD Museum of Art ; and for more art, both classic and new, visit the Telfair Museum , in Savannah’s Historic District and the Jepson Center . Dining options include fresh oysters and shrimp at Bernie’s . Bunk down for a night or more at the Old Harbor Inn , with rooms under $1610/night and worth every penny.

13 best things to do in Savannah

St Augustine, Florida

Once you succeed in bidding adieu to Savannah and its charms, head south on I-95 about two hours and 45 minutes to discover the oldest city in the US. St Augustine , Florida, was founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and delivers an experience that feels a world away from the beach towns and theme parks we associate with the Sunshine State . Explore the iconic Castillo de San Marcos , spend some time getting to know local history at the city’s exceptional museums, and enjoy a diverse menu that reflects St. Augustine’s native, colonial, and immigrant cultures (try Collage Restaurant for its international menu and romantic setting in the Historic District). Book a room at the utterly charming Villa 1565, starting under $125/night.

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

You might also like: The best US national parks for your spring break road trip Around the US in 8½ days? How to use an algorithm to maximize your road trip The Grand Circle is the ultimate US Southwest road trip

This article was first published Feb 20, 2020 and updated Feb 4, 2022.

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Northern US Road Trip

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Getting Your Car Ready

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8 Helpful Apps for a Road Trip

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Southern US Road Trip

Your Guide to the Southern Road Trip

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This road trip will take RVers from the Pacific coast in San Diego to the high desert of the southwest US and through the deep south before ending in gorgeous Savannah, Georgia. You’ll be booking around 3,000 miles for this trip on a variety of road types, and extreme climates so make sure your RV is up to the challenge before heading out. Don’t expect a lot of sprawling metropolis on this road trip. It’s all about the people, the places and, of course, some delicious food.

It shouldn’t be a surprise that the southern states get pretty darn warm during summer. You don’t want to overtax yourself and your RV so don't plan this trip for June, July, or August. Spring is a great time to see the desert blooms in Arizona and New Mexico, and fall is an excellent time for some varied colors along the southeastern states.

First Stop: San Diego, California

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Campland on the Bay is an ideal RV park for any RVer. Paved spots are outfitted with full utility hookups, and that’s the basic sites, choose a super-site if you want full utilities as well as privacy, your Jacuzzi spa, and your laundry facilities. The park is loaded up with plenty of other features and amenities such as game rooms, fitness center, onsite café, boat put-in, dog park, on-site market and plenty more. Campland is an all-around great RV park.

What to Do in San Diego

San Diego has long been a fun place to go so there will be plenty to do. If the kids are on the trip, you have your choice of the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Legoland , SeaWorld and more. If you’re a big fan of history, especially naval history, you’ll appreciate the USS Midway Museum as well as the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Outdoor adventurers will have plenty to do as well as you have La Jolla Cove and Shores, Point Loma, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, Balboa Park and Torrey Pines State Reserve all within the local area. Once you get done with all the fun in San Diego, you’ll be able actually to hit the road.

Second Stop: Tucson, Arizona

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Without the signs, you may not even know that this is a public park due to the great amenities. You will be greeted at Catalina State Park with 120 full-service sites, and all these sites come with their picnic table as well as a grill. Campground bathrooms and shower facilities are new so feel free to leave your shower sandals behind. On top of those amenities at your site, you also have a gift shop, on-duty rangers, exhibits, group use areas and more. 

What to Do in Tucson

If you’re staying at Catalina State Park, you may as well take advantage of your local surroundings. Catalina offers over 5,000 acres of canyons, streams, desert landscapes and some great wildflowers. Try hiking, biking, horseback riding or cruising to check out the local area. You’re also on the doorstep of Sabino Canyon and Saguaro National Park if you need more outdoor fun. Other points of interest in Tucson include the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Pima Air and Space Museum, the Mission San Xavier del Bac and much more. A good mixture of things to do when staying in Catalina State Park and Tucson, Arizona.

Third Stop: Carlsbad, New Mexico

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

KOAs are known by RVers for their amenities and features and the Carlsbad KOA Holiday is no different. Even the biggest or rigs will fit at Carlsbad KOA Holiday as they have sites to accommodate rides up to 75 feet at sites loaded with full utility hookups. You can clean yourself up in the clean bathhouse, shower, and laundry facilities after having fun in the caverns. Not only do you get these great basics but you also get a pool, snack bar, Wi-Fi access, group pavilions and top it off, BBQ is served nightly. 

What to Do in Carlsbad

The number one reason to stay in Carlsbad, New Mexico is to check out Carlsbad Caverns National Park . Take a guided or self-guided tour to check out the many amazing geological formations, the great rooms and make sure to grab a seat for the nightly migration of the local Brazilian Free-tailed bats. There are even trails to explore the local area up above if you’re feeling a bit claustrophobic. Other than the park you have the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, Sitting Bull Falls and the Lake Carlsbad Recreation area.

Fourth Stop: Dallas, Texas

John Coletti / Getty Images

Dallas, Texas does have some RV parks, but for a real gem, we need to be a little outside of the city at the Vineyards Campground and Cabins . You’re right on Grapevine Lake with large grassy pull-through sites that come with all three major utilities on top of The Vineyard’s clean and bright shower and laundry facilities. The amenities don’t end there, there is a camp store, fishing pier, disc golf, playgrounds, bike, and kayak rentals, group pavilions and plenty more — lots of fun and amenities at the Vineyards Campground.

What to Do in Dallas

Dallas is a huge metropolis with plenty of great activities, so you shouldn’t be searching too hard for things to do. If you want to be outside, you should try Klyde Warren Park, White Rock Lake Park, or the gorgeous Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. If you’re looking to check out the history of Dallas, you can check out the infamous Sixth Floor Museum/Texas School Book Depository or the Dealey Plaza National Historic Landmark District. You also have the Dallas World Aquarium and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for the little ones.

Pit Stop: Shreveport, Louisiana

You may be a little north of the bayou, but you can still get some excellent Cajun food in Shreveport. 

Fifth Stop: Jackson, Mississippi

Kat Clay / Getty Images

A lovely park in a great recreational area greets you when you roll into Mississippi and Timberlake Campground . There are water/electric sites as well as full-service sites if you don’t like dealing with your black tanks. Every great RV park has shower and laundry facilities, and Timberlake is no different. You also get grills, picnic tables, TV rooms, tennis courts, swimming pools, comfort stations, water access and plenty more. There’s so much to do at Timberlake you might forget to visit Jackson.

What to Do in Jackson

Jackson, Mississippi is a good mix of activities for the whole family as well as some historical and heritage sites. The kids will likely enjoy the small but entertaining Jackson Zoo, the Mississippi Museum of Nature and they’ll dig the Mississippi Children’s Museum. If you dig the historical buildings, you’ll want to try the State Capitol, the Old Capitol Museum, the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion or the Eudora Welty House. Other points of interest include the Mississippi Museum of Art, the Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Museum, and the Alamo Theater. 

Sixth Stop: Montgomery, Alabama

John Coletti / Getty Images 

Capital City RV Park is a highly rated park that gives you plenty to work with while hanging out in Alabama’s capital city. The sites are large and include full utility hookups on top of cable TV connections and your patio. The showers are private if you do not feel like an exhibitionist and laundry facilities are clean and able to handle your on-the-road stinky clothes. You also have a dog park and playground to keep Fido and the kids happy.

What to Do in Montgomery

We move from the capital city in Mississippi to the capital city in Alabama with Montgomery. Montgomery is one of the best places in the United States if you’re big on American history and the civil rights movement with points of interest such as the Rosa Parks Museum and Library, the Civil Rights Memorial Center and the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church . After you’ve learned some history, you can try the Montgomery Zoo or the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. You also must stop by the Alabama Shakespeare Festival for some of the finest productions of Shakespeare in the United States.

Pit Stop: Atlanta, Georgia

Make time for an Atlanta stop to visit one of the world’s largest aquariums and to eat some fried chicken and waffles. 

Seventh Stop: Savannah, Georgia

Amy Luo / Getty Images

We featured this park on our Atlantic coast road trip, but it serves as well for the southern US road trip. Skidaway Island State Park has over 80 RV sites with 17 of those sites coming with full utility hookups. You’ll also get all the basics that RVers need for a long trip like their shower and laundry facilities, group meeting areas, picnic areas, playgrounds and more. You get all these features and amenities in the lovely Georgia country setting. 

What to Do in Savannah

It’s not difficult to have a good time in Savannah, all you have to do is take a stroll around the Historic District for some beautiful buildings, neat shops, and some excellent dining. There also a few landmarks you shouldn’t miss such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Bonaventure Cemetery and the Pin Point Museum. One unique way to have fun in Savannah is to go on a ghost or vampire tour, something different that’s sure to lease.

A Complete Guide to the Mississippi River Road Trip

An RV Guide to the Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip

Guide to an Atlantic Coast Road Trip

The Ultimate Northern US Road Trip

5 New Mexico RV Parks You Must Visit

Wyoming RV Parks You Must Visit

3 Types of Places to Park Your RV

5 Illinois RV Parks You Must Visit

5 of the Best Michigan RV Parks

5 of the Best Quebec RV Parks

9 of the Best Ontario RV Parks

Science Says This Is the Perfect U.S. Road Trip

5 of the Best New York RV Parks

The 9 Best RV Parks in California

5 of the Best RV Parks in Nova Scotia

5 of the Best Washington RV Parks

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The Best Tips and Ideas For Your Southern USA Road Trip

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Where do you start when planning a Deep South road trip itinerary? There’s so much to see and to do in the Southern States. That’s the problem I’ve been having because we are in the process of planning a Southern USA road trip. We have driven through some of the Southern USA like from Miami to the Florida Keys , North Carolina from Washington to the Outer Banks, a road trip from Huntsville Alabama to the Gulf Shores , and a Louisiana road trip post- Mardi Gras in New Orleans .

Long before I met him, my husband did a Southern States road trip with his best friend. From what I gather, it involved a lot of beer and pizza. Our family-friendly Deep South USA road trip would be quite different! I’ve reached out to some travel blogger friends for other ideas on Deep South tours.

Ideas for A Southern USA Road Trip

I’m sure all the fabulous and diverse things to do on a Deep South Tour is why Lonely Planet has chosen the American southern states as one of their top regions to visit.

Map South East USA

The Southern USA Road Trip

Check out the separate articles for the following:

• North Carolina road trip stops
• Tennessee road trip stops
• Georgia road trip stops
• Louisiana road trip stops
• Alabama road trip itinerary

In terms of natural beauty, the region has it in spades, from the mountains of Appalachia and national forests such as Chattahooche e and Pisgah to islands such as the Outer Banks (NC), Golden Isles (GA), and Hilton Head (SC). If it’s culture you seek, the Southeast is the birthplace of the blues, country, jazz, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. There’s fantastic food, from the low country cuisine of the coastal regions to the soul food that traces its roots back to Africa. If it’s hip cities you’re into, the region has more than its fair share, from Asheville and Charleston to Nashville and Mobile . And then there’s my hometown, Atlanta , which has grown from the city Sherman burned to a bustling metropolis rich with international flavor. Whether you’re into Civil War history or the Civil Rights movement, the Southeast has a uniquely diverse array of offerings that will appeal to travelers of every style. So much so that, in recent years, a significant portion of our visitors seem inclined to stay! – Bret Love & Mary Gabbett at  Green Global Travel 

Sunset in Outer Banks, North Carolina (Photo credit: Bret Love)

South East USA Road Trip: North Carolina

North Carolina is a superb state to visit on your South East USA Road trip with its combination of major cities, charming small towns, mountains and beaches.

With the help of some experts, we have 10 areas to road trip in North Carolina that you should visit and what you can do at these places.

• spot wild horses in Northern Outer Banks
• pay homage to the first flight at Kitty Hawk
• drink craft beer in Asheville
• pretend to be a college student again in Wrightsville, Durham and Charlotte
• eat great barbecue everywhere

Two of our favourite North Carolina road trips tends to be going east on our way to the Outer Banks for beach time or west to the Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking.

South East USA Road Trip: Virginia

Virginia is such an easy place to visit from Washington D.C. and also from the north of the country.

• wide sandy beaches along the Chesapeake Bay
• a family-friendly beach town Virginia Beach
• presidential homes like George Washington’s Mt Vernon, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and James Madison’s Montpelier
• charming trendy university town, Charlottesville
• wine country, luxury hotels and antiques shopping for couples getaways because you know… Virginia is for lovers!

The capitol, Richmond Virginia is conveniently located for any southern USA road trip. There’s so much to do in Richmond Virginia too!

Richmond Virginia

Outdoor adventures, excellent dining, and a cool arts scene are just a few of the fun things to do in Richmond Virginia on your next southern US road trip. Virginia’s capital city straddles the James River and takes full advantage of that waterfront setting. Richmond’s walkable downtown is packed with interesting stops connected by scenic paths like the Canal Walk , a 1.25-mile trail close to the river. Stroll or jog across the T Tyler Potterfield Bridge for fantastic views of the Richmond skyline. Or take the cool footbridge to Brown’s Island , a popular spot for hiking and hanging out by the water. You can get on the water too, with kayak rentals and rafting trips. On the southern end, the Canal Walk connects to the 52-mile Capital Bike Trail. Richmond is justly proud of its dining and brewery scene. Choose from downtown spots like Parterre at the historic Linden Row Inn , or Lemaire in the iconic Jefferson Hotel . Or head out to neighborhood favorites like Lunch or Supper and Kuba Kuba. Brew lovers can sample from 40 breweries on the Richmond Beer Trail , 10 of which are tucked into the hip Scott’s Addition neighborhood. History and art lovers will find it easy to build an itinerary in Richmond. Historic sites like St John’s Church , the Poe Museum , and the American Civil War Museum interpret important moments and characters in American history. Art highlights include the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts , the ICA Richmond , and a fantastic collection of murals scattered throughout the city.

– Julie McCool by Fun in Fairfax VA

Stop by Richmond on your Virginia Road Trip (Image credit: Julie McCool)

Southern USA Road Trip: South Carolina

Why include South Carolina in your Southern USA road trip?

• visit elegant and historic Charleston
• laze on miles of sunny beach coastline
• spend family time on Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s answer to Virginia Beach
• play golf on Hilton Head
• explore nature with South Carolina’s mountains, rivers and lakes

Here 5 travel experts tell us about their favourite parts of South Carolina to help you plan your prefect Southern USA road trip.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Oozing with Low Country charm, Beaufort on Port Royal Island is one of South Carolina’s oldest cities. Known for its laidback atmosphere and historic antebellum mansions, Beaufort is big enough to offer plenty to do, yet is small enough to explore on foot. Top of any visitors list should be a walk around the historic district to see the finest of the preserved houses from the 1700s, when the town was founded, set amidst mighty old oak trees dripping with Spanish Moss. The area is so picturesque, that’s it’s become a popular backdrop for movies, most notably The Big Chill, The Great Santini, and Forrest Gump. Be sure to also take a stroll through the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park or, for a shadier option, the Spanish Moss Trail . Another must is a visit to Parris Island and its impressive lighthouse. While wildlife and nature lovers will enjoy exploring Beaufort’s marshlands is by kayak. Anyone with an interest in the Civil War should visit the Beaufort National Cemetery . It’s said to be one of the most beautiful in the United States. The 33-acre site is the burial ground for over 18,500 Confederate and Union servicemen and women. For an overnight stay, the award-winning Beaufort Inn in the heart of the historic district combines old-world charm with luxurious, modern amenities. In addition to guest rooms in the main house, inviting verandas complete with rocking chairs, welcome guests to the historic cottages dotted around the picturesque gardens.

– by Kathryn Burrington from Mandala Meadow

Beaufort has been the setting for many movie locations (Image credit: Kathryn Burrington)

Charleston, South Carolina 

Charleston, South Carolina is known for its colorful buildings, warm weather and delicious Southern cooking – and of course, a high level of Southern charm! During my whirlwind visit to Charleston, I tried to pack in as much as possible, and I was not disappointed by this sweet Southern gem. On the strong recommendation of a local friend, I went to Poe’s Tavern  for lunch and had the best shrimp salad sandwich of my entire life! Poe’s is located just two blocks up from the beach, so it’s the perfect spot to eat before or after visiting the ocean. Their seafood is so fresh and the atmosphere has a fun, bustling local haunt kind of vibe out on Sullivan’s Island . I highly recommend checking Poe’s Tavern out while you’re in town! A great spot for wandering and snapping some Instagram-worthy photos is Rainbow Row , which is a series of thirteen beautiful, colorful historic houses in downtown Charleston.

Fun Fact! –   Rainbow Row is actually the longest cluster of Georgian row houses in the United States.

Charleston is so walkable and picturesque that I’d recommend continuing your stroll by taking a free walking tour to learn more about the history of the city!

– by Sierra Dehmler at  www.passportvoyager.com

Charleston, South Carolina on a Deep South Road Trip (Photo credit: Sierra Dehmler)

Congaree, South Carolina

Just 30 minutes from Columbia, SC lies one of the country’s oldest bottomland hardwood forests. Congaree National Park is a perfect way to get off-grid for the day and appreciate nature without driving hours into the middle of nowhere. See state and national champion trees towering above you while you stroll the Boardwalk Loop trail . This is the perfect intro to the park and a handy pamphlet from the Visitor Center will explain more about the water tupelo, loblolly pines, and cypress knees you see along the way. To see the park’s namesake, the Congaree River , be prepared for an all-day trek through the woods. Check with the Visitor Center first for any downed bridges or flooded trails, and don’t forget a map and compass, just in case! If you’d rather paddle your way through the park, bring your kayak (or rent one from a local business) and spend the afternoon floating down Cedar Creek . Cedar Creek is much smaller and calmer than the Congaree River, perfect for a relaxing float rather than battling rapids and currents. Campgrounds are available for tent campers, but there are no RV campsites in Congaree National Park. However, a few nearby state parks and campgrounds can accommodate RV’s. Camping isn’t for everyone, and let’s be honest, some of you don’t fully understand just how terrible the southern heat and humidity can be in the summer. Enjoy the park by day, and then enjoy some AC at a hotel in Columbia overnight! – by Rachel Means of Means To Explore

Congaree National Park in South Carolina is close to its capitol, Columbia (Image credit: Rachel Means)

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island in the low country of South Carolina is known as a resort town with world-class golf courses, incredible beaches, and the infamous Harbour Town Lighthouse . Hilton Head Island makes for the ideal weekend getaway of relaxation and recreation. One of the top things to do on Hilton Head, other than golf or head to the beach, is to explore Sea Pines Forest Preserve . It is an impressive 605 acres of nature trails and boardwalks featuring unspoiled terrain. Pack a picnic lunch and plan to spend a few hours exploring this wild destination in the heart of this resort community. While you are at Sea Pines, be sure to make a reservation for dinner at Sea Pines Beach Club . It has one of the best patios on the island and is a perfect way to end your day exploring Sea Pines. A visit to Hilton Head Island is never complete without a visit to Harbour Town and you can easily spend an entire day at South Beach Marina Village , known for the incredible sunsets and Salty Dog Cafe . Shelter Cove is also a wonderful place to explore with younger kids and if you time your visit right, there are interactive shows held at the bandstand. If you are looking for accommodations, you may be surprised to discover that Disney has a resort on the island. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort features many recreational activities and offers 12 miles of stunning beaches. There are multi-room villas, a pool with waterslide and endless outdoor fun while you enjoy the local charm of Hilton Head Island. However you choose to spend your time on Hilton Head Island, you will be greeted with southern charm and endless low country views.

Visit Hilton Head in South Carolina for an upscale Southern USA road trip (Image credit: Casandra Karpiak)

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach refers not only to the South Carolina tourist destination, but also to the 60 miles of beautiful white sand beaches that stretch far down the Carolina coast making an ideal setting for a growing retirement community, as well as host to umpteen bachelorette parties, guys’ golf outings, family reunions, and myriad conventions. A drive through town on the main drag captures the Southern scene sprinkled with Piggly Wiggly, Chick-Fil-A and Krispy Kreme stores. And it immediately screams beach town and family resort, with mega beach shops, mega-tsunami surf stores, dozens of miniature golf courses, and pancake houses every couple blocks. The Myrtle Beach area also features more “cultural” attractions within easy driving distance. Aside from the many excellent restaurants specializing in seafood and Southern cuisine, there’s the Brookgreen Sculpture Gardens , a stunning collection of American sculpture set amid gorgeous gardens. The Brookgreen Gardens Sculpture Gardens are a real American gem, and worth making a special trip to this part of South Carolina to spend a delightful morning wandering in them. Allow a few hours to walk the gardens. If you do it justice, it may even take more than a day. If you have children, or if you’re a child at heart, don’t miss the special exhibits of charming animals and figures designed specially to amuse the young ones. Also worth a visit is Hopsewee Plantation, a meticulously maintained relic of the antebellum South, right down to the slaves’ quarters.

– by Tom Bartel at Travel Past 50

Stop by the beach on your Southern USA road trip (Image credit: Tom Bartel)

Deep South Road Trip: Alabama

Alabama is a fascinating place to visit on a deep south road trip with an astounding array of different landscapes. An Alabama road trip will take you from the mountains of North Alabama to the wide sand beaches of the Gulf Shores in the South.

Things you can do in Alabama include:

• explore Huntsville  aka Rocket City with its NASA space center and historic Antebellum houses
• admire Helen Keller’s pioneering work at her birthplace and museum near Florence Alabama
• learn about  the civil rights movement in Birmingham and Montgomery
• rummage for bargains at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro
• chow down on amazing barbecue at Big Bob Gibson in Decatur

A Civil Rights Road Trip in Alabama

Three things you will find in the Southern states of the USA — delicious southern cooking, destinations with a deep yet troubled history, and the birthplace of the many musical genres that have impacted American music. One way to experience what makes the south unique is through a Civil Rights road trip. On this Deep South Road Trip itinerary, start in Atlanta, the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and home to the Center for Civil and Human Rights. From Atlanta, head down to Montgomery, Alabama and visit the Rosa Parks Museum and Freedom Rides Museum to learn about the monumental impact the bus boycott and Freedom Rides had on the Civil Rights movement in the U.S. It is then a short one and one-half hour drive to Birmingham, Alabama, where you can learn about the civil rights struggle in Alabama at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, visit the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, and sample from Birmingham’s burgeoning food scene. Finish off your road trip in Memphis, tracing the arc of MLK, Jr.’s life from beginning to tragic end with a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Hotel, the site where he was assassinated. Of course, the Memphis music scene is hopping with the blues clubs on famous Beale Street, Gibson guitar factory tours, Elvis’ Graceland, the Memphis Blues Hall of Fame, and historic STAX Museum of American Soul Music.

– by Tamara Gruber at We3Travel

Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta Georgia (Photo credit: Tamara Gruber)

Southern USA Road Trip: Tennessee

Any southern USA road trip needs to include Tennessee just because this state has provided so much to American culture – Elvis, Dolly Parton, country music and Tennessee Whiskey to name a few!

Here are some things you can do on a road trip in Tennessee:

• thrill in the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains
• taste test Tennessee Whiskey on a Jack Daniels Distillery Tour
• pay homage to 70’s style decor and rock and roll at Graceland
• listen to live music in Nashville
• stay overnight at the original Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel

The Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel is on my son’s wish list thanks to a mug we have in our house that my husband brought back as a souvenir from a trip before my son was born.

So check out our 50+ Tennessee Road trip ideas for Southern USA road trip ideas gleaned from several travel experts.

Southern USA Road Trip: Georgia

Do you have Georgia on your mind for a South East USA road trip? Here are some reasons why a Georgia road trip should be part of your Southern USA road trip:

• discover why Atlanta is such a major hub for the region
• stroll the historic streets of Savannah
• visit the Tybee Island lighthouse
• explore Georgia’s beautiful coastline
• bite into a Georgia peach

Our list of Georgia road trip ideas was put together with the help of our travel expert friends and is sure to have lots of cool things you will enjoy doing on your Southern USA road trip.

Deep South Road Trip: Mississippi

When you think of the Deep South, you definitely think Mississippi.

Coastal Mississippi is very small and pretty much a continuation of the Gulf Shores in Alabama.

Ironically we have gone from Orlando through the Florida Panhandle to Mobile, Alabama. And we have gone from New Orleans to Houston.

I am determined to make up the nearly 150 miles that we seem to have missed between Mobile and New Orleans which seems packed full of things to see including Biloxi Mississippi. Biloxi is known for its casinos and fun atmosphere but it is also the home of Beauvoir , where Jefferson Davis retired at the end of his leadership as President of the Confederacy.

I also love Home Town on HGTV and am on a mission to visit Laurel Mississippi where it is based. Laurel looks so charming thanks to Ben and Erin Napier. ( Yes, Waco Texas is also on my wish list to visit which was made famous by former HGTV couple, Chip and Joanne Gaines).

Laurel, Mississippi

Laurel, Mississippi is the setting for HGTV’s show “Home Town.” This is definitely a town on the rise and a place that you must stop on your southern road trip. Laurel was working on improving itself even before the show began and has seen great changes in recent years. It was once a wealthy logging town and therefore has a multitude of charming and well built homes that were once falling into disrepair. Due to “Home Town” many of these homes have now been renovated. If you watch the show you can drive around and see some of your favorites. The downtown area is being lovingly restored with new shops and restaurants opening regularly. You will find both men’s and women’s clothing stores with stylish pieces, furniture stores, lovely gift shops, toy stores, and antique stores.The people of Laurel are incredibly friendly and the restaurants are delicious. The highlight is the town itself, besides the downtown area it is also known for its beautiful parks. In fact, Gardiner Park was designed by the same landscape architect who planned Central Park in New York City. You may also want to visit the Lauren Roger’s Museum of Art which is a very nice art museum to be located in such a small town. There are a few hotels located in the town of Laurel although there are none in the historic district. If you want to stay in the historic area you will find many airbnbs for your stay! My favorite is The Laurel Cottages in downtown Laurel. – by Karen and Emily of Wheels Up Enterprises

Charming small town Laurel was made famous by an HGTV series (Image credit: Karen and Emily from Wheels Up Enterprises)

Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez, Mississippi would be a wonderful stop on a southern road trip especially if you are interested in architecture, old houses, antiques, or American history. Natchez is known for having more intact antebellum homes than anywhere else in the United States and many of them are open for touring. When you arrive in Natchez be sure to stop by the Natchez Visitors Center to pick up a list of which tours are available and purchase your tickets to view these homes. Stanton Hall , Rosalie Mansion , and Longwood are three of the most popular and are open most of the year. The Visitors Center also houses an incredible, though sad, display to help you learn more about the history of slavery in and around Natchez. But Natchez isn’t all about history. You will also find some incredible restaurants in town. Be sure and check out the restaurants in the “under the hill” neighborhood especially the Magnolia Grill or The Camp. Shopping should also be on your list of things to do. The people of Natchez are in love with old furniture and china and silver and there are many antique stores in the downtown area to poke around in and possibly discover a new favorite piece. The best places to stay in Natchez are in some of the old homes. Many of them take in guests. There are also some hotels on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River including the highly rated Natchez Grand Hotel and Suites . – by Karen and Emily from Wheels Up Enterprises

If you like Antebellum architecture, you will love Natchez Mississippi! (Image credit: Karen and Emily from Wheels Up Enterprises)

Deep South Road Trip: Florida

There’s so much more to Florida than the ever popular Orlando theme parks. We have been to some of the more popular places like the Palm Beaches,  Orlando , Miami and Key West , including a beautiful road trip from Miami to Key West .

Gainesville, Florida

Gainesville is an awesome place to visit for its diversity. As a college town where the University of Florida is located, there are a ton of very unique bars, and many that are cheap as dirt (the benefits of a college town!) Some even let you bring your dogs, which is fun whether you have a pup or not – I mean, who doesn’t love having a beer and petting a cute dog at the same time? There are some cool walks to do as well, on one of which you can spot gators. Just don’t get too close, and they won’t attack. I swear, they’re tame! (Don’t bring your dogs for that walk, though, as they do want to eat your dog, just not you!) Gainesville is filled with surprises, and awesome places to eat. Ever tried a falafel burger? You got it. As it’s a bit of a trendy place, there are loads of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, as well as something for the meat eaters out there – rest assured. Overall, Gainesville is incredibly diverse, plus it’s a small city so it’s easy to walk around even if you don’t have a car. I highly recommend visiting!

Up close and personal with Alligators in Gainesville, Florida (Photo credit: Danielle Ditzian)

Southwest Florida

Beautiful Southwest Florida is as much a geographic region as it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Florida. Located in the sub-tropical southwest “paradise coast” of Florida, the region lies at the edge of the Florida Everglades giving visitors unparalleled nature and eco tourism opportunities. The main cities of Naples , Marco Island , Bonita Springs, and Fort Myers all offer great shopping, dining, and cultural activities centered around the Arts, and are surrounded by the small, still quaint fishing towns that offer a glimpse into the slower pace of Floridays gone past. Island towns like Sanibel and Captiva islands , Pine Island , and Matlacha , are easy day trips from wherever you stay and perfect for paddling the calm bays and backwaters, browsing art galleries and eating fresh shrimp tacos for lunch. It’s just a short drive to Miami for those needing more action, and a fun 3-hour boat ride to check out Key West for the day. But the biggest draw for visitors to southwest Florida is some of the best beaches in the country, with Caribbean-style turquoise water, soft white sand, and some of the best shelling in the world.

A live shell found on the beach in Naples, Florida will go back to the sea.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida

My family loves visiting the islands of Sanibel and Captiva on the West coast of Florida. They offer some of the Sunshine State’s most sublime scenery. Miles of white sand beaches, acres of wildlife refuge, and a low-key vibe make this part of Florida a true island oasis. Both Sanibel and Captiva have long been known as the best spots in the world to go shelling, but Sanibel in particular has a huge abundance of shells due to its unusual east-west orientation, allowing the shells to roll in and stay put. People come from far and wide to go shelling on Sanibel. Sanibel is also the home to the “ Ding ” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, offering a ton of wildlife spotting, making the island a nature-lovers paradise. There is town life as well, but for the really funky part of the islands, head over the bridge to Captiva, where swirls of bright colours great you with quirky stores and bungalow-style restaurants and cafes. Captiva is fun and unique, with places like the wacky Bubble Room , which celebrates Christmas all-year round, and known for their delicious cakes. Sunset Beach cocktails can be had at famed Mucky Duck , a Captiva institution. Best of all, though, is just hanging at one of the islands’ many beautiful beaches, and feeling completely removed from the hustle and bustle.

A Captiva Florida sunset (Photo credit: Corey Cook)

Everglades, Florida

One of the most famous ecosystems in the southeast US is the Florida Everglades, as it contains the largest subtropical wetland in the country. Over 1.5 million acres has been designated  a s Everglades National Park , and is home to more than 70 threatened or endangered species. The Everglades has such a unique ecology that it’s also received several international recognitions,   including International Biosphere Reserve, Wetland of International Importance, and World   Heritage Site (this place is special, y’all!). Since the Everglades is so shallow, with sawgrass marsh as its primary feature, motorboats can’t operate in most areas. So the most novel – and fun! – way to explore it is by airboat. Airboating is a great eco-friendly option, since there’s no submerged propeller to damage underwater plants and wildlife (that gets extra points from this sustainability-minded traveler). It’s also loud, windy, and fas t ! To get a little taste of what the Everglades has to offer, I recommend a tour with E ve r gl a de s t he Ri ve r of G ra s s A dve nt ure s . Just an hour’s drive from Fort Lauderdale and a cost of $50 for a   one-hour tour, it’s easily accessible and well-priced. The guides are super knowledgeable on ecology of the area, and there’s a good chance you’ll have some close encounters with local wildlife. Fingers crossed for an alligator sighting!

American Alligator Swimming through the Everglades (Image credit: Mary Beth Charles)

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is as much fun to visit as it is to say (oh-kuh’-fuh-noh’-kee). Residing along the Georgia and Florida border in the Southeast United States, this renowned swamp covers 438,000 acres. The look and feel of this swamp is almost prehistoric, as alligators inhabit the waterways and Spanish moss hangs from the trees. If you are a wildlife lover, be sure to bring your binoculars and camera. Besides the thousands of alligators in the swamp you might also see black bears, otters water moccasins and a whole host of interesting birds, including the osprey, sandhill crane and anhinga. You can explore Okefenokee Swamp at your leisure from your car or the wilderness walkways, or take one of the many tours offered by the Park Service. You can even take a train tour aboard “ The Lady Suwanee ” along the Okefenokee Railroad. I very highly recommend getting out of your car and taking the Adventure Walk to the Observation Tower. This boardwalk sits low – nearly on top of the swamp so wildlife viewing is fantastic. The Observation Tower is 90 feet high and allows wonderful panoramic views of the swamp. – by Cherri Megasko at  Bucket List Travel Club

Twin alligators at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge on the Florida-Georgia border (Photo credit: Cherri Megasko)

Florida For a Southern States Road Trip

When you think of Florida, you probably think of Disney and gators, but there is so much more to it than that. It’s home to the oldest city in the US ( St Augustine ), one of the least visited national parks in the country, natural springs with crystal clear water, and some of the best cave diving in the world. And if none of that interests you, it’s got the Kennedy Space Center , beaches galore, some of the best state parks, and one of the most stylish cities in the country. I love visiting Florida, because just driving three hours can feel like an entirely new place. There’s something for everyone whether you’re a city slicker or a beach bum, there’s a place for you. I love the colorful shops in Cocoa Beach , boating around Port Orange , relaxing at the Anastasia Island State Park , and exploring the springs. In Gainesville check out The Flying Biscuit for brunch and CYM for a delicious coffee. If you’re in St. Augustine , head to Kookaburra for a unique coffee experience and an awesome dinner at The Floridian after wandering the old city. Florida is an awesome place to visit because it is such a diverse state.

Florida Lighthouse (Photo credit: Megan Johnson)

Deep South USA Road Trip: Louisiana

We have done a Louisiana road trip that went West across the state startingd with Mardi Gras in New Orleans and ending in Houston. This Louisiana road trip included visiting the famous River Road plantations and Lafayette in Cajun country.

Travel exerts give us five other perspectives on places you could include in your Louisiana road trip.

Deep South USA Road Trip: Texas

Eastern Texas is part of the Deep South culture but Texas itself is so big that it’s hard to contain in one culture. After all, it’s the Republic of Texas, once and forevermore.

There are plenty of things to do in Texas which is a vast state. Think of all the cities (Austin described beow), but also Dallas , its neighbour Fort Worth , San Antonio , El Paso and Houston.

Houston itself is a major international hub and a great place to start your Deep South USA road trip from the West side of the region.

Austin, Texas 

Austin, the state capital of Texas, is a great place to visit and rightly deserves to be included in the Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Regions to visit in 2018. Known predominantly for it’s eclectic music scene and the University of Texas at Austin , Austin also has enough parks and lakes to keep every outdoor enthusiast happy and are great for hiking, biking, swimming and kayaking. It also has a blossoming food scene and currently serves up some of the best BBQ and Taco’s in the whole of the South! Add in an outdoor gallery and 2 annual music festivals, and you’ve got a city with something for everyone. If you are planning a weekend in Austin, this guide has everything you need to know from things to do, where to stay and what to eat!

– by Vicki Garside at Make Time To See The World

Austin Texas (photo credit: Vicki Garside)

It’s quite hard to plana Deep South road trip itinerary… there’s so much to see and to do in the Southern States! If you’re overwhelmed with possibilities, check out these 13 destinations that shouldn’t miss in your South US road trip. You’ll find the beaches of Florida, cities like Savannah and Atlanta, the crocodiles in Everglades and more. Plan your Southern road trip with these ideas.

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13 Best Road Trips in the Southern U.S.

When it comes to stunning views from your rv's windshield and lots to do, the southern part of the u.s. has plenty to offer..

• 1 When it comes to stunning views from your RV's windshield and lots to do, the southern part of the U.S. has plenty to offer.
• 2 Sorting it out and figuring out where you want to go can be a big job, however.
• 3.1 Key West to Amelia Island, Florida
• 3.2 Bourbon Trail, Kentucky
• 3.3 Skyline Drive, Virginia
• 3.4 Scenic Highway 30A, Florida
• 3.5 Houston, Texas to New Orleans, Louisiana
• 3.6 Memphis to Nashville, Tennessee
• 3.7 Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
• 3.8 Savannah, Georgia to Charleston, South Carolina
• 3.9 Austin to San Antonio, Texas
• 3.10 Montgomery, Alabama to Atlanta, Georgia
• 3.11 Williamsburg to Mount Vernon, Virginia
• 3.12 Dallas, Texas to Little Rock, Arkansas
• 3.13 Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee

Sorting it out and figuring out where you want to go can be a big job, however.

Fortunately, there are lists available that can help you plot out a route. For example, Best Life put together a list of the “ Best Road Trips in the South .”

To make it easy, I put the list below:

BEST Southern Road Trips

Key west to amelia island, florida.

Start: Key West, Florida End: Amelia Island, Florida Distance: 557 miles

Florida's eastern highway hugs the Atlantic coast, stretching from Key West on the southern tip up to Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, below the Georgia border. Along the way, feel free to pull over at whatever beach strikes your fancy. Other attractions include St. Augustine's rich history (established in 1565 by Spanish explorers), the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, the surf at Melbourne Beach, and, of course, Miami's famed nightlife scene.

Bourbon Trail, Kentucky

Start: Lexington, Kentucky End: Louisville, Kentucky Distance: 130 miles

The bourbon trail is a must for those visiting Kentucky (though requires a designated driver, of course). Popular distilleries — Town Branch, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, and Angel's Envy, among others — dot the rolling hills between Lexington, Elizabethtown, and Louisville. At each location, visitors can learn about the process and taste the fruit of master distillers' labor. Along the way, you'll also be able to take in the state's best barbecue and bluegrass music.

Skyline Drive, Virginia

Start: Front Royal, Virginia End: Rockfish Gap, Virginia Distance: 105 miles

Skyline Drive is a great route because it slices through the center of Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The 105-mile ridge road will take you through some of the most stunning Appalachian peaks while snaking through a landscape that also includes plenty of wetlands and waterfalls.

Scenic Highway 30A, Florida

Start: Sandestin, Florida End: Inlet Beach, Florida Distance: 24 miles

Florida locals know all about this secret hideaway in the Panhandle between Pensacola and Panama City Beach. From I-98 near Sandestin, merge onto Scenic Highway 30A, which is an artery that strings together a cluster of beach towns on the Gulf of Mexico. Each enclave offers its own personality, from the quirky art community of Grayton Beach, the postcard-perfect Seaside (as seen in The Truman Show), and the design-forward Alys Beach, which hosts the Digital Graffiti Festival every May.

Houston, Texas to New Orleans, Louisiana

Start: Houston, Texas End: New Orleans, Louisiana Distance: 347 miles

Mosey east from Houston along the 347-mile drive to New Orleans, making sure to experience the region's treasures on the way. Examples? Canoe the swampy Lake Martin, listen to toe-tapping zydeco music in Lafayette and wander the antebellum Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie (made famous as the backdrop of Interview with the Vampire). And, of course, when you make it to New Orleans you can reward yourself with stuff like beignets and bourbon in the French Quarter.

Memphis to Nashville, Tennessee

Start: Memphis, Tennessee End: Nashville, Tennessee Distance: 212 miles

Tennessee is the beating heart of American music with proof in form of Elvis Presley's estate, Graceland, as well as the the Stax recording studio, the Memphis Rock ‘n' Soul Museum, the Ryman Auditorium, The Country Music Hall of Fame, and Grand Ole Opry — and all before catching some live tunes at Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, a classic honky-tonk. Check out our video below from last year on RVing to a Nashville Family Vacation.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Start: Rockfish Gap, Virginia End: Cherokee, North Carolina Distance: 469 miles

It's not hard to see why the Blue Ridge Parkway has the nickname of “America's Favorite Drive.” The 469-mile route offers the best of the Appalachian range, connecting Virginia's Shenandoah National Park with North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Suggested route: Start at the northern entrance in Rockfish Gap, Virginia, then drive south, passing through Roanoke before entering North Carolina. Of course, Asheville is a popular stop.

Savannah, Georgia to Charleston, South Carolina

Start: Savannah, Georgia End: Charleston, South Carolina Distance: 107 miles

Savannah is nicknamed “The Hostess City” for its legendary Southern hospitality. The historic district is a must, offerings cobblestone squares, Gothic-Revival architecture, and manicured parks. Movie buffs might want to stop and take a few pics at Chippewa Square, the location of the iconic park bench filmed in Forrest Gump. Travel north along the coast toward Charleston, and you'll pass through quaint low-country communities including Bluffton and Beaufort. In Charleston, explore the Fort Sumter National Monument, soak up the sun in Folly Beach, and eat your fill of signature seafood.

Austin to San Antonio, Texas

Start: Austin, Texas End: San Antonio, Texas Distance: 80 miles

Think of Austin as the Brooklyn of the Lone Star State. This young, vibrant capital has it all—live music, killer eats, and a central location just an hour outside Texas Hill Country. Spend some time in the city itself and enjoy outdoor activities such as paddling on Lady Bird Lake and swimming in the Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. Then, drive west to Fredericksburg and explore the more than 20 Texas Hill Country wineries. The rest of the journey south is winding through a chain of charming German towns like Gruene and New Braunfels. End the journey in San Antonio, where the River Walk has been revived with new restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques.

Montgomery, Alabama to Atlanta, Georgia

Start: Montgomery, Alabama End: Atlanta, Georgia Distance: 161 miles

In Montgomery, Alabama, check out the Rosa Parks Museum and the six-acre National Memorial for Peace and Justice, featuring sculpture and artwork by African-American artists. Heading northeast on I-85, you'll hit Atlanta, the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., among other things. Be sure to walk through the national park named in King's honor, which is comprised of his birth home on Auburn Avenue, The King Center, and Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he was a co-pastor with his father from 1960 until his untimely death in 1968.

Williamsburg to Mount Vernon, Virginia

Start: Williamsburg, Virginia End: Mount Vernon, Virginia Distance: 140 miles

In Williamsburg, visitors will find the Governor's Palace, which served as the residence for the Royal governors and later as the home to post-colonial leaders Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry. Next up, check out the state's five James River Plantations, built around the country's earliest European settlement, Jamestown, established in 1619. When you get to Richmond, swing by the capitol building; designed by Jefferson in 1785, it was the first state capital after the Revolutionary War. Then, head north to check out George Washington's home, Mount Vernon.

Dallas, Texas to Little Rock, Arkansas

Start: Dallas, Texas End: Little Rock, Arkansas Distance: 319 miles

Culture vultures will adore Dallas for its world-class Museum of Art and Nasher Sculpture while nature enthusiasts might want to spend an afternoon running or biking on the 3.5-mile Katy Trail. On the way to Arkansas, stretch your legs in Sulphur Springs at the quirky Southwest Dairy Museum or at Cooper Lake State Park. Kids will appreciate the Discovery Place Children's Museum in Texarkana or the Museum of Discovery in Arkadelphia. Roll into Little Rock and explore the 1,000-acre Two Rivers Park or the city's zoo, which boasts more than 600 native and exotic animals.

Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee

Start: Natchez, Mississippi End: Nashville, Tennessee Distance: 444 miles

The picturesque Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the longest road trips in the South, delivering 444 miles through three states (Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee). The route follows the “Old Natchez Trace,” a historic trail used first by Native Americans then by early European settlers, tradesmen, and soldiers. Whether hiking, camping, horseback riding, or cycling strikes your fancy, there are near-endless opportunities along the route.

Published on 2020-01-28

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

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Southern USA Road Trips & Vacations

While you may be traveling far from home, you're never far from home cooking when you're in the South.

When it comes to snacking and sipping in the USA , you won't find anywhere more indulgent than the South. With biscuits and gravy, po'boys and pimiento cheese on the menu, these road trips will help you discover the soul in soul food . Whether you're nodding your head to the blues in  Nashville , sipping Sazeracs in  NOLA , or strolling around historic Atlanta , you'll never have to worry about what's for dinner. 

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Southern USA travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How do I get to the South?

Depending on which state you travel to in the South, getting around is fairly easy, with each state having at least one major airport.

Atlanta is a huge hub for international travel, and the Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport sees the most passengers per year worldwide (we weren't joking when we said huge!)

Select trains and buses will travel between the major cities, and you can use a website like BusBud to help you choose the best route for your itinerary.

If road-tripping is your mojo, Southern road trips can be a blast! There are tons of exciting cities to drive between, a myriad of entertaining roadside stops, and plenty of delicious food to keep your metaphorical tank as full as the tank of your car. All you need is a map and a good playlist and adventure awaits.

What is the weather like in the South?

The South can get mighty steamy, especially in the summertime where you can expect high humidity for the majority of the day.

Since the Southern USA is made up of 16 of the 50 states, the climate can vary, but keep in mind that all of the states in the South are subject to hurricanes and tropical storms from June 1-November 30.

If you plan on traveling during this period it's wise to pack a rain jacket and waterproof shoes and keep an eye on the forecast.

When is the best time to visit the South?

Since the Southern states can have oppressively hot summers and cold, wet winters, the best time to visit is typically shoulder season: either April-May or September-October.

If you thrive in the heat and want to visit during the summer months, you can catch a cool breeze at one of the beaches outside of the coastal cities of Charleston or Savannah, or enjoy some cooler temps in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

In major cities, accommodations with air conditioning are almost ubiquitous. If you pack the right clothing and hydrate properly, you might just come to love the sweet, sweltering heat of the South.

What do I pack to travel to the South?

The heat and humidity in the summertime can be extreme, so we recommend loose layers and a light jacket for rain or cooler evenings. If you're planning on spending time in the mountains, proper hiking gear, good footwear, and rainproof clothing are a must. Folks in the South typically dress casually but are known to up their game at fancier events or restaurants, so make sure to check for a dress code before you head out to a certain spot.

I'm a vegetarian, what can I eat in the South?

Soul food is at the epicenter of the Southern experience, and a visit would only be complete with sampling the local fare. You might expect exclusively heavy, meat-focused dishes when you think of Southern cuisine. Still, it's a common misconception that vegetarians and vegans won't be able to find nourishing foods. Culturally, there are long-standing generalizations that, historically, Black foods are unhealthy when in reality, most recipes are rooted in farm-to-table cooking with fresh produce and heritage grains.

Some larger cities, like Atlanta, New Orleans, and Nashville, have burgeoning and diverse vegan/vegetarian scenes with dishes like jackfruit bbq ribs, collard greens, and alternative meat burgers. You'll even be able to find vegan versions of some of the classics like shrimp and grits and po'boys. The folks down South are friendly and welcoming, so if you've got a dietary restriction, just let 'em know, and chances are they'll happily find a way to feed you.

Is the South a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

America is mostly a safe destination for travelers who identify as LGBTQIA+. Same-sex marriage is legal in all 50 states, and there are some anti-discrimination laws to protect sexual orientation and gender identity. However, more rural areas tend to be conservative and overt displays of affection can attract negative responses.

Larger cities like Charleston, Nashville, New Orleans, and Atlanta have thriving gay communities and plenty of queer-owned businesses to support.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Take the ultimate summer road trip through the Southeast United States

Embarking on a road trip through the southern United States promises an adventure filled with natural wonders, outdoor escapades, and cultural gems. There are several destinations to hit when you go through this region, so here’s a route that passes through key checkpoints in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. This list focuses on natural and outdoor sites, but keep in mind that there are several other attractions to captivate you as you vacation here.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina/Tennessee: Kickstart your journey in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Traverse scenic drives like the Newfound Gap Road and the windy Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, hike to iconic spots like Clingmans Dome and Chimney Tops, and relish the sight of cascading waterfalls, verdant forests, and diverse wildlife in this revered national park.

Asheville, North Carolina: Venture east to Asheville, North Carolina, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Immerse yourself in creativity within the city’s River Arts District, take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, or explore the nearby Pisgah National Forest, which is full of hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic vistas.

Charleston, South Carolina: The next major stop is Charleston, South Carolina, a picturesque coastal city renowned for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and southern hospitality. Wander through a variety of impressive real estate in the historic district, Rainbow Row, and the Battery, the last of which is a beautiful coastal promenade that doubles as a defensive sea wall. If you’ve packed some recreational gear, this is a great place to enjoy some kayaking and beach lounging on nearby barrier islands, such as Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms.

Savannah, Georgia: Continue your journey southward to Savannah, Georgia, another gem that boasts well-preserved historic districts, fresh seafood, and classic southern cuisine.

Miami, Florida: Keep the energy of the trip high with a stop in Miami, which is renowned for its diverse neighborhoods, stunning beaches, and cultural offerings. Unwind on the pristine sands of South Beach, meander along Ocean Drive's historic Art Deco district, and savor the city's multicultural flavors with Cuban cuisine in Little Havana and Caribbean fare in Coconut Grove.

Everglades National Park, Florida: Drive further south and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Everglades National Park. Discover the unique ecosystem of sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and freshwater sloughs by foot or by sea. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like alligators, manatees, birds, and frogs in this expansive subtropical wilderness.

Gulf Shores, Alabama: Next, make your way back up toward Gulf Shores, Alabama, a coastal gem known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Relax on the pristine shores, partake in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, and explore nearby attractions, such as Gulf State Park and the 7,000-acre Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.

Biloxi, Mississippi: Head further west to Biloxi, Mississippi, a coastal city renowned for both nightlife and historic landmarks. Take a stroll along the Biloxi Beach Boardwalk, and be sure to indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

New Orleans, Louisiana: Keep going west along the coastline until you reach the iconic city of New Orleans, Louisiana, where a blend of French, African, and Creole cultures converge. Lose yourself in the mesmerizing melodies of jazz along Bourbon Street, sample delectable Cajun and Creole cuisine in the French Quarter, and explore the city's lush bayous and swamps for a unique outdoor experience.

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas: Head northwest to Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas, renowned for its thermal springs and historic bathhouses. Take a leisurely stroll along Bathhouse Row, soak in the healing waters of the hot springs, and explore the park's scenic hiking trails and mountain vistas.

Memphis, Tennessee: Now turn eastward to Memphis, a vibrant city steeped in musical history and southern culture. Pay homage to legends at Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, explore the Beale Street entertainment district, and indulge in mouthwatering barbecue at local eateries.

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky: Conclude your road trip with a visit to Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, a place that truly lives up to its name because it is the world's longest cave system. Here you’ll encounter intricate rock formations and underground chambers, hike scenic trails through the park's lush forests, and discover the rich natural and cultural history of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tips for traveling around the Southeast

• Plan your route ahead of time, and utilize GPS navigation systems or mobile apps for real-time updates on traffic and road conditions.
• Pack essentials such as water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and emergency supplies in case of unexpected delays or roadside emergencies.
• Stay informed about local weather forecasts and advisories, particularly during hurricane season in coastal areas and severe weather events in tornado-prone regions.
• Take breaks to rest and stretch during long drives. There are a lot of states to explore in this region, so it’s best to keep your stints behind the wheel short enough so that you can take in everything there is to see while staying alert and safe.

A road trip through North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky is an ambitious undertaking, but it promises an unforgettable journey filled with natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural discovery. So pack your bags, hit the open road, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime through the southeast United States.

No matter where the road takes you, make sure you and everyone in your vehicle wears a seat belt. Buckling up saves lives!

Road trip loop: Explore the beautiful coasts of these four Southern states

Note from 10Best: Check with individual businesses and attractions before going, because of sporadic closures due to COVID-19.

Life slows down in the South, so what better way to sample it than a meandering road trip through the South’s coastal states? From northeast Florida’s sun-soaked beaches to the mountains of fall color along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, a road trip through the South showcases the best of America’s coastal southern states.

We’ve highlighted the must-sees along the road, but make this road trip of southern states your own; don’t be afraid to stop at that roadside fruit stand or farmer’s market (they’re the best places to find mayhaw jelly in Florida or Carolina barbecue).

Soak in the tastes, sights and sensations of the South, and if you decide to stay a spell longer than you planned, don’t worry – your fast-paced life can wait. Of course, after a few days on these southern roads, you may not want to go back. We can’t say we blame you.

This road trip itinerary creates a loop, meaning you can jump on or off at any point in the following segments, which are broken down by state. Some of these trip legs would take you longer than a day to travel, so it's up to you to decide how and when you'd like to stop for the night.

Florida to Georgia: Flagler Beach - St. Augustine - Neptune & Atlantic Beach

3 hours, 110 miles on A1A, the St. Johns River Ferry and US 17

Flagler Beach

Flagler Beach (at the east end of SR 100 at A1A) has the best waterfront campground in Florida. Campers who plan ahead can snag an oceanfront campsite at Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area .

Not a camper? A legion of mom-and-pop motels and Airbnbs front the water. Stroll along the roseate sand, which gets its color from coquina shells, tiny shells upon which starfish feast.

Make sure you scrawl some inspirational words (or sign your name) on the black board outside the Funky Pelican, a waterfront burger and fish restaurant on Flagler Pier before settling in for a fish sandwich.

Northeast Florida marks the southern edge of the wildly endangered North Atlantic right whale 's habitat and, every now and then, the eagle-eyed beach bum can catch sight of a whale and, if they’re lucky, her calf. Surfers, far less endangered, also flock to the waves offshore here, as do dolphins, turtles and other coastal dwellers.

St. Augustine

The divine ocean vistas continue, unbroken until St. Augustine . Even the beach restrooms are splashed in tropical hues.

At St. Augustine, history buffs can explore the oldest city in the United States, but don’t overlook Lincolnville, a historic Black community settled by freedmen when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. The Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center walks you through that history.

They can also hook you up with a civil rights walking tour of St. Augustine, including taking you to the spot where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was arrested for attempting to eat at a white restaurant.

Before or after you visit the Lincolnville Museum, take a short walk to the Blue Hen Cafe , a hidden gem serving breakfast and lunch (with vegan and gluten-free options, too). Save room for dinner at Meehan’s Irish Pub , where seafood lovers will make short work of the seafood tower. The pub has no shortage of Irish eats (colcannon, anyone?) and traditional American dishes, too. Grab a seat on the balcony overlooking the water.

Rest your head at Casa de Sueños , a B&B down a quiet, tree-lined street, but not before you sink into a bath in your jetted tub, or unwind with a glass of sherry before bed – every room comes with its own decanter and sweets baked in-house. And wake up to the smells of eggs and bacon (or whatever delicacy your host cooks for that morning’s breakfast).

Traveling with pets? Their sister bed and breakfast, the St. Francis Inn , allows small pets.

Neptune & Atlantic Beaches

Before you leave the Sunshine State, there’s one more place you may want to consider for an overnight stop: Neptune and Atlantic Beaches, two small town beaches immediately north of Jacksonville Beach on A1A. These tiny towns boast exactly one resort: One Ocean Resort , a pet-friendly resort with exquisite dining, spectacular vistas and a tranquil spa.

Venture out into town and whet your appetite with oysters at Sliders, slip down the street to Bookmark, a corner bookstore boasting some of Florida’s best writers and feast on seafood at North Beach Fish Camp . Pro tip: try the gator with Datil pepper aioli. Datil peppers , found predominantly in northeast Florida, hit between 100,000 and 300,000 on the Scoville scale. Don’t worry about the heat in this dish, though, because the creaminess of the aioli keeps it in check.

Continue up the road to Mayport, where the St. Johns River Ferry crosses the river every thirty minutes. The ferry leaves every half hour, so don’t resist the temptation to stop for lunch at Safe Harbor Seafood , or stock your cooler with caught-that-morning shrimp or snapper.

Georgia to South Carolina: St. Simons Island - Savannah

3 hours, 130 miles on US 17, including optional detour to St. Simons

Across the state line, take your pick: Savannah’s antebellum cobblestones and charm, or small-town beach islands you can explore by bike. If you choose the latter, head east on 341 to St. Simons and settle in for some Southern hospitality.

St. Simons Island

Smack dab in the middle of the Golden Isles, the King and Prince Resort boasts the only waterfront resort on St. Simons Island. Golfers, couples and those who simply crave some pampering make this Georgia beachfront resort home base as they explore St. Simons.

Don’t miss the lighthouse and the Bloody Marsh battle site, where you’ll learn about the War of Jenkin’s Ear (yup, that’s a real war, and yes, Jenkins lost an ear). And when you’re hungry, order the Beachcomber (brisket on sourdough) at Beachcomber BBQ & Grill steps away from the resort.

If you’d rather check out Savannah, eschew the downtown hotels for a retro experience at the Thunderbird Inn , right off 17 at the foot of the Talmadge Memorial Bridge. Each room comes with RC Cola and Moon Pies!

The lobby serves hot coffee and Krispy Kreme donuts every morning – and pops popcorn throughout the day. It's a short hop to the Savannah River, where you can take a ghost tour or riverboat cruise, then feast on fried catfish and Tybee crab corn chowder along the cobblestoned waterfront at the Cotton Exchange Seafood Grill and Tavern .

If you scream (as we all do) for ice cream, Leopold’s has dished up icy confections for more than a century. Expect a line, but it's worth the wait.

South Carolina to North Carolina: Bluffton - Charleston

5 hours, 260 miles on US 17, SC 315, SC 46, SC 170, US 21 and US 17

Not so far from the crowds of Hilton Head Island, Bluffton offers a quieter stay that’s a little more relaxed. Take a walking tour through this historic Lowcountry town, and if you’re there on Thursday, be sure to grab some locally grown veggies at the Bluffton Farmer’s Market (12-5 p.m.).

Don’t miss breakfast or lunch at The Cottage (their shrimp and grits is great for either meal) and plan some time to browse the family-owned shops and galleries, especially Pluff Mud Art .

While you’re in the area, pick up a copy of Pat Conroy’s classic, "The Water is Wide," and hop on a ferry to Dafuskie Island and take a tour with a sixth-generation guide who will teach you about Gullah heritage and how the island has changed since Conroy’s time on the island.

You can’t escape Charleston’s long history as a port city. While you can certainly spend days on King Street, on walking tours and strolling through the oldest gardens in the country at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens , Charleston has more than that on offer, like tours and tastings among the oaks at Firefly Distillery on Kiawah Island. Forget the moonshine here and ask to taste their Sea Island Java Rum (sold only in South Carolina) instead.

On your way back to the mainland, stop at the Angel Oak , a 500-year-old oak tree with some graceful branches reaching almost 200 feet across the ground and up towards the sky.

North Carolina to South Carolina: Wilmington - Outer Banks - Raleigh - Blue Ridge Parkway

15 hours and 30 minutes, 850 miles on US 17, US 64, US 421, Blue Ridge Parkway and I-26

At the northernmost southern state on our road trip, don’t miss a night in Wilmington. Blocks from the Cape Fear river, ARRIVE Wilmington is the only hotel we’ve seen with its own confessional; if you ask, they may even give you a room in the old convent.

The hotel’s proximity to the Cape Fear River and Wilmington’s historic downtown make it easy to stroll the area. Note: ARRIVE is remodeling the hotel; limited availability – until then, check out The Hive , another boutique hotel nearby.

Grab your morning coffee at 24 South . Nosh your way through the River District, saving space for tapas at Circa 1922 (especially the beet salad).

The Cape Fear Museum of History and Science has rotating and permanent exhibits, including a replica skeleton of a giant ground sloth .

Outer Banks

Keep heading north to see gigantic sand dunes, the site of the first flight, and wild horses. It’s hard to find a bad place to stay along the Outer Banks. If you love the feel of bed and breakfast inns, make reservations at The Cypress House, a converted fishing-and-hunting lodge.

If you prefer a dog-friendly national chain, TownePlace Suites , across the street from the beach, fits the bill. Campers of all ilk – from RV to tent – have four campgrounds on Cape Hatteras National Seashore from which to choose.

The wild horses roaming OBX (how the locals refer to the Outer Banks) descend from horses that the Spanish conquistadors brought to the Carolina coast more than 400 years ago. Multiple tours exist in Corolla, Ocracoke and at the Rachel Carson Reserve in the Shackleford and Beaufort area.

It’s a bit of a drive to take a guided tour of the wild horses, but well worth it – especially if you make time for a stop at the Corolla Wild Horse Museum (check with the facility for pandemic hours). Finally, the Wright Brothers National Memorial pays tribute to flight – and the Wright brothers.

Raleigh-Durham

From the Outer Banks, it’s a straight shot across 64 to the Raleigh-Durham area. The Warehouse District has no shortage of offerings (avoid this area on weekends if you don’t love crowds).

People call Pullen Park “ one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, ” and while there, you can hop aboard a 1911 carousel. All that round-and-round making you hungry? Eat at Parkside (beer aficionados, we’d be remiss if we didn’t tell you to order a Crank Arm Holy Spokes Chocolate Habanero Smoked Porter.)

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway takes you on a winding, mountainous drive through North Carolina, and if there's a way to make this drive in October, you'll see perhaps the most stunning fall foliage anywhere in country. No matter what time of year you drive the Parkway, though, the sojourn through the treetops offers travelers windows into southern folkways, Appalachian culture and mountain history.

Exit the Parkway at Asheville, North Carolina for the journey back to Columbia, South Carolina, for one of nature's most mysterious spectacles.

South Carolina to Georgia: Congaree National Park - Lexington

3 hours and 30 minutes, 220 miles on I-26 and I-20

Columbia & Congaree National Park

Forget fireworks and drone shows; every May, synchronized lightning bugs draw throngs of people for the Congaree Synchronized Fireflies Festival at Congaree National Park. The lightning bugs don’t know they’re putting on a show, of course – but so many people clamor to see this phenomena that the park has to hold a lottery to decide who can get in to see them.

Other than that, though, Congaree National Park often gets overlooked, and that’s a pity, because this South Carolina gem has the country's largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest (think cypress, oak and gum trees) carved out by the flow of the Congaree and Wateree rivers. Once you’re in the middle of the forest – whether you’re hiking or paddling – it’s tough to believe Columbia’s only a few miles away.

Tent and hammock campers will find solitude at Conagree, and tent and RV campers alike can stretch out slightly north of Columbia proper at Sesquicentennial State Park (don’t call it that, though – it’s a dead giveaway you’re not local because locals call it Sesqui). Please note: the state’s renovating the Sesqui campgrounds. Expect them to re-open in August 2021.

Looking for a hotel? Columbia has no shortage of national chains, and the Home2 Suites offers a fine experience. If you’re in the mood for something different, you may want to book a few nights in this West Columbia treehouse (with no stairs!).

If you do, visit the rustic but modern Old Mill Brewpub , and if you’re in the mood for a cheeseburger, order the Old Mill Burger. With pimento cheese and fried green tomatoes, it doesn’t get much more Deep South than this!

Georgia to Florida: Columbus

6 hours and 15 minutes, 370 miles on I-20, US 80 and US 27

Columbus/Phenix City

Columbia to Columbus might not sound like a big difference, but going from the forested floodplain to a river city is a big jump, culturally. Ease into Columbus at the Lunch Box Museum and browse the adjacent antique store. For more salacious fun, hop the border (it takes less than a minute) to Phenix City, Alabama for the Sin City tour, which straddles the border.

No trip to the Deep South is complete without at least one pimento burger, and The Black Cow (in the Chattahoochee Riverwalk area) serves a juicy pimento/ bacon/ jalapeno pepper jelly burger that Garden & Gun readers named the Best in the South. If you want a twist on shrimp and grits, try their chicken, grits and andouille.

Linger a night or two at the Chattahoochee Riverwalk area, resting your head at the 1870s-era Rothschild-Pound House Inn . The 12-room inn offers a free wine and cheese hour, and history buffs will love feeling as though they've walked back in time as soon as they cross the threshold.

Back in Florida: Tallahassee - Ocala

5 hours and 30 minutes, 280 miles on US 27, US 98 and US 27

Cyclists call it Trailahassee because Florida's capital city has more than 700 miles of trails. Spend the night in Tallahassee (what could be more appropriate than the Governors Inn ?), so you can browse the stacks at indie bookstore Midtown Reader , picnic in Cascades Park and grab a bite to eat at The Edison . Visit Tally in April for Word of the South , a celebration of the spoken, written and sung word.

Cyclists can ride the 16-mile Tallahassee-St. Mark’s Trail (a converted railway) to the Gulf of Mexico, but you can point your car south to the St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge just as easily. Of note at St. Mark’s: Rangers there have undertaken a massive effort to save the Monarch butterfly by spreading milkweed.

Don’t pass by Ouzts’ Too on US 98 for local seafood, oysters, beer and live music. Campers can pitch a tent or park the RV for the night at Ochlockonee State Park , but as for hotels, the Lodge at Wakulla Springs State Park offers turn-of-the-last-century luxury and a large taxidermied alligator in the lobby (Old Joe was beloved by all).

To close this road trip loop, head east through Ocala, stopping at Silver Springs for a glass-bottom boat ride, one of the oldest roadside attractions in the United States. Only gator wrestling, a uniquely South Florida tradition, is older, but that's a road trip for next time.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network — providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world — in addition to travel and lifestyle advice .

This article originally appeared on 10Best.com: Road trip loop: Explore the beautiful coasts of these four Southern states

25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.

From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.

We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).

To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.

They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!

Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?

This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next! 

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip

Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!

Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.

If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.

Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!

If possible, stop in at least one national park!

Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.

Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.

Marvel at glaciers? Check.

Hike across mountains? Take your pick.

Go scuba diving? Definitely.

Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.

Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.

You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.

If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.

The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.

There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!

Recommended Road Trip Length

Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.

New York to Los Angeles

Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot  of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.

… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!

With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!

However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!

If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Carl of NC Tripping

If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.

It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !

Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.” 

Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).

Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.

Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.

That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete. 

Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .

While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?

On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).

If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Southeast Coastal Road Trip

The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.

We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!

Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.

Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.

From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.

As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.

Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.

And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!

Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?

Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.

We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.

Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip

From Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Driving from Orlando to New Orleans  gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.

From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.

Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.

However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.

On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.

Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.

Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!

Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.

Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.

From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.

The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.

The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.

Washington State

From Katie of Two Wandering Soles

With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.

Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States. 

Start by  exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .

With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .

Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.

If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.

Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows. 

If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.

Southwest Colorado Road Trip

From Tanya of Rad Family Travel

Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.

Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.

Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.

In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.

A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.

Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.

Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.

If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns . 

Utah’s Mighty Five

From Ali of Travel Made Simple

Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .

These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.

This also works well as part of a bigger  southwestern US road trip .

If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.

Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.

For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.

You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.

Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.

Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!

From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.

If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!

Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.

South Dakota

If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!

Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.

Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.

Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!

Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.

Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.

South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!

Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone

From Catherine of Passports and Adventures

Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.

This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.

As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!

Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.

This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.

Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.

A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.

After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.

This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your  Yellowstone vacation .

As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.

Northern New Mexico

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.

The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!

Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.

Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show  Breaking Bad  was filmed here, but those who are not  Breaking Bad  fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!

After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.

You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors. 

Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!

I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.

Denver to Yellowstone Loop

Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.

USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.

For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.

From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.

On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.

Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!

We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.

San Francisco to Yosemite Loop

From Julie of More Than Main Street

Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!

This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.

You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!

After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.

Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.

This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!

You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.

The American Southwest from Las Vegas

Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!

With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.

From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.

With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.

Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!

New York State Road Trip

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!

To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.

See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.

After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.

Continue on to   Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.

The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.

From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.

After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.

Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!

We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .

On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”

It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!

While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.

For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo. 

There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.

Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock. 

This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).

New England

Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.

Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.

Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.

From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.

On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.

If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.

To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best. 

However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!

Texas Hill Country

Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.

Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.

Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.

Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!

In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).

The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!

Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.

While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!

Northwest Arkansas

Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.

Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.

Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can still soak in two of them today!

From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.

Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.

Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.

This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.

From Carole of Travels With Carole

For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast. 

West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.

Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.

This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart. 

The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.” 

In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.

And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.” 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area. 

Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.

Northern Michigan

When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.

And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!

Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!

Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.

From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.

However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.

In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!

To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.

The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.

The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!

From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.

As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.

Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.

Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.

The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.

This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.

Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.

We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.

Road to Hana, Maui

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.

When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!

The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.

This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.

Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.

You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.

Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)

From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement

Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.  

Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.

Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.

Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.

On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.

Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes. 

Continue on this road to loop back to town.

From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier. 

After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.

Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.

If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.

While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.

This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day. 

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”

Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!

Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.

So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!

We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. 🙂 We’d love to get back out west this year!

Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.

It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. 🙂 We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!

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Had a great time with everyone on this tour. Dollywood was definately a highlight fir us. Great company throughout and loads of laughs. Don't hesitate to book a Travelling Time Tour...they will look after everything for you.

Southern Charms & Florida

Been on many luxury tours and this particular one was value for money and most enjoyable included tours & optional extra tours just one mishap which caused a great deal of stress when we where leaving Orlando our transfer failed to arrive had to organise a taxi but was very doubtful if we would make our flight and our other connections will be sending cosmos taxi receipt for re imbursement and other expenses incurred

America's Musical Heritage

Excellent organization in all respects, Peter was overwhelming.

America's Musical Heritage with Extended Stay in New Orleans

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Deep South & Delta Blues

Loved everything about the tour, great itinerary, transport, hotels, food and most of all our guide was wonderful with amazing knowledge of places we visited and the music we experienced.Fabulos vacation.

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USA – New Orleans Mardi Gras Carnival

What people love about southern usa tours.

Would’ve loved it to have been longer! An extra night in each main city would’ve been great for extra activities

Trip was amazing. Really well organised and planned. John was a brilliant guide - incredibly knowledgeable about the area, the physical geography and the historical and cultural connections. Everything ran smoothly from beginning to end. Cannot recommend this trip (or John as a guide!) highly enough

A well planned and executed tour. Great way to see Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans and learn the history of music during the day and listen to it at night.

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When could you see the northern lights? Aurora forecast for over a dozen states this weekend

Read the latest on the northern lights this weekend: Saturday's forecast says parts of U.S. could see auroras .

A series of strong solar flares that the sun has been emitting since Wednesday morning could cause the northern lights to become visible this weekend to a wide swath of the United States.

The coronal mass ejections (CMEs) hurtling toward Earth prompted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to issue a rare  Severe (G4) Geomagnetic Storm Watch on Thursday for the first time in 19 years. The geomagnetic storms that the CMEs would produce pose a limited threat to our communications, but they can also trigger the aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights.

And because the sun is at the height of its 11-year-cycle, the auroras have a very good chance of being seen by more Americans than usual .

Here's what to know about the northern lights, and when and where you may catch a glimpse of them this weekend.

Good news on northern lights: Experts predict years of awesome aurora viewing

What are the northern lights?

The auroras are a natural light display in Earth's sky that are famously best seen in high-latitude regions.

The northern lights materialize when energized particles from the sun reach Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph, according to Space.com . Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles through a process that produces a stunning display of rays, spirals and flickers that has fascinated humans for millennia.

Geomagnetic storm: Solar storm is powerful enough to disrupt communications: Why NOAA says not to worry

When might the northern lights be most visible?

This week's solar activity brings with it the increased possibility of seeing the aurora across the U.S.

Though the timing is uncertain and the northern lights can be a particularly fickle forecast , officials at NOAA said the coronal mass ejections could reach Earth as early as Friday evening into Saturday, Shawn Dahl, a space weather forecaster at SWPC, told reporters Friday morning during a news briefing.

Experts from NOAA said auroras could be visible into Sunday.

The best aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time). These hours expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases, according to NOAA.

Where might the northern lights be best seen in the US?

The northern half of the U.S. is forecasted to be in the view path where the auroras may be most visible.

The best chances appear to be in northern Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin and the majority of North Dakota, according to SWPC's  experimental Aurora viewline . The visibility for viewing will also depend on local weather conditions and city lights.

Experts at NOAA said the northern lights may even be visible as far south as Alabama and Northern California. If all else fails, experts even recommend taking a photo of the night sky with your cell phone – you never known what you may capture.

"Things that the human eye can't see, your phone can, so it'll be interesting to see just how far south we're getting aurora images this time," said Brent Gordon, Chief of Space Weather Services Branch for SWPC, on the Friday call with reporters.

The National Weather Service on Friday shared an aurora forecast for Friday night and early Saturday morning, showing more than a dozen states with at least a chance to see the lights.

How does the solar maximum influence the northern lights?

Explosive bursts of radiation known as solar flares and coronal mass ejections (eruptions of solar material) drive the geometric storms, releasing solar particles and electromagnetic radiation toward our planet.

As the frequency of coronal mass ejections increases at the height of its 11-year cycle,  which NASA said is expected to be in 2025 , electromagnetic activity on the sun peaks. What that so-called "solar maximum" means for us is that the risk increases for disruption to satellite signals, radio communications, internet and electrical power grids.

'God's Hand' revealed in cosmos: Telescope images reveal 'cloudy, ominous structure' known as 'God's Hand' in Milky Way

Last December , a powerful burst of energy created the largest solar flare that NASA had detected since 2017.

The last G4 level solar storm hit Earth in March , one of only three storms of that severity observed since 2019, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center .

Just like in March, the upcoming solar storm will have particles flowing from the sun that get caught up in Earth's magnetic field, causing colorful auroras to form as they interact with molecules of atmospheric gases. The resulting glowing green and reddish colors of the aurora may be quite a sight to see.

Contributing: Doyle Rice, USA TODAY

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

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U.S. Attorney’s Office Awards Ceremony Honors Law Enforcement Partners

INDIANAPOLIS- On May 14, 2024, The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana recognized more than 75 members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies at its Law Enforcement Awards ceremony at the Indiana War Memorial & Museum in downtown Indianapolis. The ceremony, held during National Police Week, honored law enforcement professionals who have gone above and beyond their duties to safeguard Indiana communities in cases that concluded in 2023.

“This event is a small token of our appreciation for the time, dedication, and teamwork it takes to investigate a federal case and bring the worst of the worst offenders to justice. The pace, complexity, and scope of the prosecutions brought in the Southern District of Indiana are a true testament to the quality of our partners in federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “It is especially meaningful to spend time during National Police Week to recognize the talents and sacrifice of those who have dedicated themselves to serving the public—often at risk to themselves. Every day these outstanding law enforcement officers, analysts, victim specialists, prosecutors, and other professionals work to make our communities safer, uphold the law, and protect civil rights, and I am happy to recognize many of them with these awards.”

The honorees are members of the following agencies:

• Bureau of Prisons
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
• National Security Division, DOJ
• U.S. Postal Inspection Service
• U.S. Secret Service
• IRS-Criminal Investigation
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• Federal Bureau of Investigation- Indianapolis
• Federal Bureau of Investigation- Chicago
• Canadian National Organized Crime Squad
• U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western Dist. of Ky.
• U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern Dist. of Ind.
• Indiana State Police
• Marion County Sheriff’s Office
• Marion County Prosecutor’s Office
• U.S. Trustee’s Office
• Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
• Evansville Police Department
• Lawrence Police Department
• Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office
• Owensboro, KY Police Department

The teams who led the following cases received awards at the ceremony:  

Outstanding Collaborative Criminal Investigation: Cases receiving this recognition are limited to those that have demonstrated outstanding efforts or overcome significant challenges in collaboration with multiple agencies.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Renard, et al and U.S. v. Edwin Agbi .

Project Safe Childhood Shield of Innocence: This award honors those who have provided extraordinary assistance to victims of a federal child exploitation crime.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Arnold Castillo.

L.E.A.T.H Heroism Award: This award is presented to a L.E.A.T.H. case that demonstrates extraordinary commitment and fortitude in the pursuit of justice. The Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence (LEATH) Initiative is named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. The LEATH Initiative began in October of 2020 and recognizes the inherent danger posed by firearms in the hands of domestic abusers.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Michael Ryan Mack.

Investigative Excellence Award: Cases receiving this award are limited to those that have substantially and significantly contributed to the mission of the United States Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice by conducting complex, thorough and proactive analysis of evidence.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Fenner, et al and U.S. v. Betts, et al .

Community Impact: Presented to a case that had widespread, positive impact on constituents, law enforcement relations, and the legacy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Indiana.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Tony Cushingberry.

Excellence in the Pursuit of Justice; Presented to a case in which local, state, and federal officials achieved extraordinary results in their work to prevent crime, enhance community safety, and seek justice.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Holman IV, et al. and U.S. v Dannon, et al .

Outstanding Agency Service: Presented to a case that substantially and significantly contributed to the mission of the United States Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice.

Awarded to: McDaniels v. Smith and United States, in which Bureau of Prisons personnel worked with staff of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to successfully defend and vindicate the BOP and a BOP nurse who had been falsely accused of negligence in a civil suit brought by a former inmate.

In addition, the ceremony honored the late IMPD Officer, Anthony J. Farrell, who passed away in 2023, with a posthumous award presented to his family.

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DEA Releases 2024 National Drug Threat Assessment

WASHINGTON – Today, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram announced the release of the 2024 National Drug Threat Assessment (NDTA), DEA’s comprehensive strategic assessment of illicit drug threats and trafficking trends endangering the United States.

For more than a decade, DEA’s NDTA has been a trusted resource for law enforcement agencies, policy makers, and prevention and treatment specialists and has been integral in informing policies and laws. It also serves as a critical tool to inform and educate the public.

DEA’s top priority is reducing the supply of deadly drugs in our country and defeating the two cartels responsible for the vast majority of drug trafficking in the United States. The drug poisoning crisis remains a public safety, public health, and national security issue, which requires a new approach.

“The shift from plant-based drugs, like heroin and cocaine, to synthetic, chemical-based drugs, like fentanyl and methamphetamine, has resulted in the most dangerous and deadly drug crisis the United States has ever faced,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “At the heart of the synthetic drug crisis are the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels and their associates, who DEA is tracking world-wide. The suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and money launderers all play a role in the web of deliberate and calculated treachery orchestrated by these cartels. DEA will continue to use all available resources to target these networks and save American lives.”

Drug-related deaths claimed 107,941 American lives in 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are responsible for approximately 70% of lives lost, while methamphetamine and other synthetic stimulants are responsible for approximately 30% of deaths.

Fentanyl is the nation’s greatest and most urgent drug threat. Two milligrams (mg) of fentanyl is considered a potentially fatal dose. Pills tested in DEA laboratories average 2.4 mg of fentanyl, but have ranged from 0.2 mg to as high as 9 mg. The advent of fentanyl mixtures to include other synthetic opioids, such as nitazenes, or the veterinary sedative xylazine have increased the harms associated with fentanyl.   Seizures of fentanyl, in both powder and pill form, are at record levels. Over the past two years seizures of fentanyl powder nearly doubled. DEA seized 13,176 kilograms (29,048 pounds) in 2023. Meanwhile, the more than 79 million fentanyl pills seized by DEA in 2023 is almost triple what was seized in 2021. Last year, 30% of the fentanyl powder seized by DEA contained xylazine. That is up from 25% in 2022.  

Social media platforms and encrypted apps extend the cartels’ reach into every community in the United States and across nearly 50 countries worldwide. Drug traffickers and their associates use technology to advertise and sell their products, collect payment, recruit and train couriers, and deliver drugs to customers without having to meet face-to-face. This new age of digital drug dealing has pushed the peddling of drugs off the streets of America and into our pockets and purses.

The cartels have built mutually profitable partnerships with China-based precursor chemical companies to obtain the necessary ingredients to manufacturer synthetic drugs. They also work in partnership with Chinese money laundering organizations to launder drug proceeds and are increasingly using cryptocurrency.

Nearly all the methamphetamines sold in the United States today is manufactured in Mexico, and it is purer and more potent than in years past. The shift to Mexican-manufactured methamphetamine is evidenced by the dramatic decline in domestic clandestine lab seizures. In 2023, DEA’s El Paso Intelligence Center (EPIC) documented 60 domestic methamphetamine clandestine lab seizures, which is a stark comparison to 2004 when 23,700 clandestine methamphetamine labs were seized in the United States.

DEA’s NDTA gathers information from many data sources, such as drug investigations and seizures, drug purity, laboratory analysis, and information on transnational and domestic criminal groups.

It is available DEA.gov to view or download.