The Southern United States is one of the best regions in the country for a road trip. Whether you are touring the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, winding through the bayou country of Louisiana, or stopping in small Mississippi towns you have never heard of, a Southern road trip sticks with you long after the drive home.
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You might also find yourself caught up in some of the most electric environments in the country. Nashville’s live music scene can keep you out past midnight on a Tuesday. A Saturday college football game at an SEC school is an experience that borders on religious. The South does not do anything halfway.
Choose Unique Destinations
The South is full of destinations with a character all their own. Charleston’s historic district feels like stepping into a different century. The world famous French Quarter of New Orleans needs no introduction. And the birthplace of Elvis Presley sits quietly in Tupelo, Mississippi, waiting for fans who make the pilgrimage.
If you are planning to include Mississippi on the list of destinations for this road trip, you can use a vacation planner that will help you plan out the perfect itinerary for your travels.
Enjoy Local Cuisines
Southern food is a reason to take this trip all by itself. Hush puppies at a roadside joint. A plate of cajun food in Louisiana that makes your eyes water. Pulled pork that has been smoking since before sunrise. Every state along the route has its own specialty, and tracking those down is half the fun.
Check out Yelp for dining options before arriving at each destination. The local spots, the ones without websites or Instagram accounts, are often the best finds.
Organize Your Travel Details
A road trip through the South covers a lot of ground, so planning your days in advance saves headaches. Map out your destinations, book accommodations ahead of time, and figure out realistic driving distances. A Nashville to Atlanta drive, for example, takes about four hours without stops. With stops, plan on a full day.
Breaking the trip into segments also gives you a chance to explore spots along the way. If Tennessee is on the itinerary, do not miss the entertainment options in Tennessee beyond just Nashville.
Final Thoughts
A great Southern road trip starts with knowing where you want to go and working backward from there. Research your stops ahead of time, including the dining options that are available, the attractions worth your time, and the spots that locals actually recommend.
