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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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A 21-Day Road-Trip Itinerary Around the Deep South

If there’s one thing that I’ve learned in all my travels around America, it’s that the US is more like a collection of small countries than one cohesive cultural unit. The lifestyle, language, and norms of each region differ vastly from one another. And even within states, there are vast differences.

The region that surprised me the most was “the South,” defined as the states that were part of the Confederacy, from the Mason-Dixon line to the Mississippi River and down to the Gulf of Mexico. (Texas was part of the Confederacy, too, but it’s generally not considered part of the “Old South,” because, well, it’s Texas and it’s its own beast!)

Growing up as a northerner, I always kind of looked down on the region as “backwards,” but after a few trips around the area , I found that my perceptions about the region were wrong.

I grew to love my time exploring that part of the country. Sure, the South has its problems, but it has a lot more diversity, history, and natural beauty than my preconceived prejudices had allowed.

This region has a ton of parks, lakes, rivers, historical sites, and other interesting places to see. You’d need more than three weeks to properly see it but the deep south itinerary below gives you an overview:

Note : There are many, many, many potential routes you can take through this region. This three-week version is just some highlights I like. Tailor the route to your needs as you please!

Table of Contents

Days 1–3: New Orleans

Days 4–7: mississippi & alabama gulf coast, days 8–9: birmingham, days 10–12: nashville, day 13: franklin, days 14–16: memphis, day 17: oxford, day 18: vicksburg, days 19–20: natchez, day 21: return to new orleans.

But we only have a few days, so here are some suggestions to help you get started:

• Party on Bourbon Street – This probably goes without saying, but do check out Bourbon Street. Sure, it’s touristy, but it’s also exciting and home to lots of buskers, live music, and parades. It’s the beating heart of the city.
• Wander the Garden District and French Quarter – These are two of the most popular and historic districts. Spend some time strolling around, taking in the mansions and old French buildings, either on your own or with a guided walking tour (there are tons to choose from).
• Visit the National World War II Museum – This is the largest museum dedicated to the war in the United States — and it’s one of the best museums in the world. Its use of audio, video, artifacts, and personal stories ties the history of the war together in incredible detail. Listening to firsthand accounts makes it all feel that much more intimate and impactful. Adult admission is $35 USD.
• Go on a voodoo or ghost tour – NOLA has something of a creepy past, and the best way to learn about it is by taking a voodoo or ghost tour . You’ll get to visit cemeteries, explore haunted buildings, and hear all sorts of unsettling anecdotes and ghostly tales.
• Listen to live music on Frenchmen Street – Take in some live music (any night of the week) on this energetic street, the second most popular after Bourbon Street. It has lots of places to listen to blues and jazz; my favorite is the Spotted Cat.

For more things to see and do in NOLA, check out this detailed itinerary .

New Orleans is also an amazing foodie city. Some of my favorite places to indulge at are: Lilly’s Café, Bearcat, Welty’s Deli, Killer PoBoys, Jewel of the South, Acme Oyster House, and Willa Jean.

WHERE TO STAY

• HI New Orleans – This is one of the best hostels in the world and my favorite in New Orleans.
• Auberge NOLA – This hostel hosts nightly parties and events, so it’s super easy to meet people.
• India House Backpackers Hostel – Another wild party hostel, with a swimming pool and live music venue.

Need a rental car to kick-start your trip? Go with Discover Cars . They dig up the best deals so you can save money and make the most out of your road trip!  

Start with a visit to Ocean Springs, Mississippi. It’s a small town with gorgeous white-sand beaches and lots of outdoor activities (such as fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking). The downtown has lots of little shops and galleries as well.

Next, head to Mobile, Alabama. Visit Fort Condé (built by the French in 1723) and take a tour of the USS Alabama (a World War II vessel docked in Battleship Memorial Park). Make sure to also visit the Carnival Museum (dedicated to Mardi Gras) to learn more about the parade and its cultural significance.

From here, cruise toward Gulf Shores, Alabama, where you’ll find miles of beaches and gorgeous subtropical weather as you soak in the views of the Gulf of Mexico. There are also lots of hotels, resorts, and casinos if you feel like splurging. It’s tacky but fun.

Nearby, you’ll also find Gulf State Park, which spans 6,500 acres and offers beaches, hiking trails, fishing, golf, zip-lining, and sand dunes you can climb (parking rates vary depending on what section of the park you visit).

WHERE TO STAY There aren’t any hostels in this region, so your best bet is Airbnb or using Booking.com to find a cheap motel (or hotel if you feel like splurging!)  

Then spend two nights in Birmingham. It grew to prominence as an industrial hub, relying mostly on nonunionized immigrant workers to undercut production in the northern US. In the 1950s and ’60s, it became a focus for the civil rights movement, and it was here, in 1962, where Dr. King wrote the famous “Letter from a Birmingham Jail.”

Here are few things to see and do while in Birmingham:

• Learn at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute – Opened in 1992, this museum highlights the struggles of the civil rights movement in the 1950s and ’60s. It sheds important light on how the movement impacted the region and changed the direction of the entire country — and the world. Adult admission is $15 USD.
• Explore the Pepper Place Saturday Market – This farmers’ market is a great place to pick up local foods and artisan souvenirs. There’s also often live music, cooking demonstrations, and other activities on weekends (Saturday 7am-12pm).
• Visit the Southern Museum of Flight – This aviation museum has over a hundred airplanes, as well models, engines, artwork, and photographs. The museum even has a Wright Flyer, one of the first planes developed by the Wright brothers, as well as some experimental prototypes that never took off (pun intended). It’s a great place to visit with kids especially. Admission is $10 USD.
• Go hiking or biking – Spanning over a thousand acres, Ruffner Mountain Reserve (a mountain range once mined for iron ore) has all sorts of short hikes. Most are under two miles and range in difficulty from easy to hard. If you’d rather mountain-bike, check out Oak Mountain Park nearby, which has 50 miles of biking trails.
• See the Birmingham Botanical Gardens – For a place to relax and go for a walk, head to the Botanical Gardens. It has over 12,000 plants, 25 different gardens, dozens of sculptures, and several miles of walking paths. Best of all, it’s free!

For a list of other important civil rights sites in the region, check out the Civil Rights Trail . It’s a comprehensive database of such sites around the entire country and has tons of helpful information and resources.

WHERE TO STAY There aren’t any hostels in Birmingham, so use Airbnb or Booking.com to find your cheapest options.  

Here are some things to see and do in Nashville:

• Visit the Tennessee State Museum – Opened in 2018, this museum goes into great detail about the state’s history. It has exhibitions on First Peoples, natural history, the American Revolution, and the Civil War. Admission is free.
• Enjoy live music at the Grand Ole Opry – Opened in 1925, this is the most famous country music venue in the world. Regular live performances, TV broadcasts, and radio shows are held here. Tickets for live performances start at $53 USD per person.
• Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum – With over 2.5 million items (including records, instruments, photographs, etc.), the de facto home of this brand of American music is one of the biggest museums anywhere dedicated to the genre. Museum admission is $29.95 USD.
• See the Parthenon – Built in 1897, this is a full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. It was built to celebrate the city’s hundredth anniversary and was chosen because Nashville is called “the Athens of the South” (due to its focus on higher education). Admission is $10 USD.
• Listen to music on Broadway – If you’re still craving live music, head to Broadway, the city’s main thoroughfare, where you’ll find all kinds of bars and live music venues. Best of all, there’s usually no cover, so you can bar-hop and enjoy as much music as you want.
• Bode – This is perfect for budget travelers who want a central location. The hotel has really comfortable rooms and a retro in-house café where you can relax with a coffee.

To be fair, I didn’t expect much when I first visited, but Franklin really over-delivered. If you’re a foodie or a fan of live music, a stop here is a must!

Here are a few things to see and do while you’re here:

• Attend the Pilgrimage Music Festival – This massive annual festival brings many world-class musicians to Franklin. Usually held in September, it combines big-name bands with small-town charm. Don’t miss it!
• Explore the Master & Makers Trail – This tourist trail takes you to the region’s breweries, wineries, and distilleries. You’ll get to sample the best Franklin has to offer while learning a bit about how each drink is made.
• Learn about the Civil War – The Battle of Franklin was fought here in 1864. Visit the Lotz House Civil War Museum to learn more (you can even still visit an old building with original Civil War bullet holes!). Admission is by tour only. There’s a guided house tour is $14 USD, or you can choose from various specialty tours ($25 USD), such as a battlefield tour, women’s history tour, or ghost tour.

WHERE TO STAY Since Franklin is quite small, Airbnb is your best option here.  

Here are a few things to see and do while you’re here:

• Visit the National Civil Rights Museum – Housed in the former motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum explores the civil rights movement from the 17th century to today, its struggles, and the impact it’s had on the country. It is powerful and poignant and one of the best museums in the country. Don’t miss it! Admission is $20 USD.
• Tour Sun Studios – This is the studio where Elvis got his start. You can take a tour and learn about the King’s origins and how his humble roots eventually led to over a billion records sold. Many other famous musicians also recorded here, such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and Carl Perkins. Admission is $20 USD.
• Wander Beale Street – Known as “America’s Most Iconic Street,” this is where you’ll find Memphis’s best live music. There are numerous bars hosting live performances, as well as street buskers.
• Enjoy the Rock ’n’ Soul Museum – Located on iconic Beale Street, this museum highlights the pioneers and contributions of blues, rock, and soul musicians from the 1930s to the 1970s. There are costumes and recordings from some of the most famous soul musicians, interactive media, and exhibitions on famous performers from Memphis. Admission is $14 USD.
• See Graceland – Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, is located a few miles south of the city. Even if you’re not a diehard Elvis fan, it’s worth a visit to see just how impactful his life and music has been. You’ll see all kinds of lookalikes and fans while also learning about his life and contributions to the music industry. Admission isn’t cheap though – tours of the mansion start at $82 USD.

Memphis is also another awesome foodie city (see a pattern here?). Some of my favorite places to eat are: Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Central BBQ, Loflin Yard, Bounty on Broad, and the Rendezvous (a delicious BBQ place).

• Hostel Memphis – With free breakfast, a shared kitchen, and plenty of common space, this hostel has everything you’ll need!

The town is really small, though, and there are only a couple of things to do here:

• Visit the historic downtown – Downtown you’ll find a charming market square surrounded by lots of restaurants, art galleries, and local shops. It’s a nice place to stroll. For a bite to eat, head to City Grocery, a fine-dining Southern restaurant in a historic two-story brick building.
• Tour Rowan Oak – This was the home of William Faulkner from 1930 to 1962. Built in 1844, today it’s owned by the university. Many of the trees on the property predate the Civil War. Inside there’s a small museum where you can learn about Faulkner and his contributions to American literature. Daily tours are available for $5 USD (cash only).
• Explore Ole Miss – Built in 1848, Ole Miss (the University of Mississippi) is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful university campuses in the country. Many of the buildings are built from red brick, and the main hall (the Lyceum, used as a hospital during the Civil War) boasts a set of Roman-style pillars.

WHERE TO STAY Since Oxford is quite small, Airbnb is your best option here.  

Like Oxford, there’s not much to do in town, and you really don’t need much time here.

• Take a historic walking tour – There are 35 markers around town that highlight important events and buildings, illuminating Vicksburg’s turbulent legacy. You can download a free self-guided map from Visit Vicksburg with several routes to choose from, as well as information on all the sights.
• Visit Vicksburg National Military Park – This park marks where the actual siege of Vicksburg took place between March 29 and July 4, 1863. The battle claimed over 3,000 lives and, along with Gettysburg, marked the turning point of the war in favor of the Union. In the park, you’ll find monuments (over 1,300 of them), trenches, cannon batteries, antebellum homes, and an old gunboat. Admission is $10 USD per person or $20 USD per vehicle.
• Tour antebellum homes – To get a glimpse at life before (and during) the war, visit some of Vicksburg’s historic antebellum homes (large, elegant mansions built before the Civil War), some of which date back to the 1790s. Some you can only view from the outside, while others offer tours. If you’re looking to splurge, some have even been converted to guesthouses where you can stay overnight (they aren’t cheap though). For an antebellum tour, check out Vicksburg Old Town Tours .

WHERE TO STAY Vicksburg is also super small, so use Airbnb .  

This town features countless antebellum homes. Since the city surrendered quickly during the Civil War, these weren’t torched or ransacked, which has kept them intact for visitors to visit today. Seeing them was one of the highlights of my time in the South. There are over 20 homes open for visits and tours. Of the ones I visited, my favorites were these:

• Longwood – This home had the most impressive architecture (it’s designed in an octagon).
• Rosalie – I found this home to have the most beautiful interior.
• Stanton Hall – This had the prettiest grounds.

WHERE TO STAY Natchez is expensive, so you’ll want to compare your hotel options on Booking.com with any suitable Airbnb options you find.  

It’s time to drive back to NOLA. It’s a short drive (just under three hours) so be sure to stop along the way anytime you see something that piques your interest!

While it can sometimes be challenging and sobering coming face to face with the legacy of America’s past, exploring the South is a must for anyone looking to learn more about our diverse country and the events that have shaped it.

From distinct food to unique music to rich history, a road trip around the Southern US has something to offer everyone. It’s one of the most underrated areas of the country.

Book Your Trip to the USA: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine, because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use — and I think they will help you too!

Need a rental car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip!

Need an affordable RV for your road trip? RVshare lets you rent RVs from private individuals all around the country, saving you tons of money in the process. It’s like Airbnb for RVs, making road trips fun and affordable!

Want More Information on Traveling the United States? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to the US for even more tips on how to plan your visit!

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Plan a Deep South Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do and Eat

Planning a USA Deep South road trip? Here’s my guide to the ultimate itinerary!

One of the most fascinating regions in the United States, southern USA is an area of great natural beauty, friendly folks, sweet accents, rich cultures and traditions, and a love of fried food that speaks to me.

It’s also an enormous area, so when we were planning our Deep South road trip it was tricky to figure out where to go – I can tell you, there was a lot of FOMO involved.

So, if you’re planning a southern USA road trip and need some help, here’s my guide to planning an incredible Deep South USA itinerary that will take you from cities to countryside, picking up history, food, music and culture along the way.

This itinerary focuses on a three-week trip, but if you don’t have that much time, I’ve got suggestions for how to cut it down.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

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Where is the Deep South?

Before we get into this Deep South road trip itinerary, where exactly is the Deep South of America?

The Deep South is generally considered to be the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina. Other states are often included (hey, Texas and Florida), but they’re not technically part of the definition that has developed over time.

I’ve been a bit sneaky with this Deep South USA road trip because I’ve thrown in stops in Tennessee and North Carolina – but I think they’re worth it, and they provide a nice loop for the road trip.

How to do this Deep South road trip

To do this road trip and see the Deep South properly, you’re going to need a car. It is a road trip, after all!

While you can get around the region via public transport if you really have to or want to, having your own wheels gives you the flexibility to go at your own place and explore more.

When we drove this route, we had our own car (my husband’s beloved F150 – he was devastated when he had to sell it when we moved home to Australia!). But you can easily rent a vehicle in any major city. I like to check Discover Cars to compare and choose the best price and vehicle across dozens of rental car companies. 

Another idea is to rent an RV or a campervan to get around the Deep South, which ticks your transport and accommodation costs off in one go. I like Motorhome Republic for RV or campervan rentals as they consolidate options from a variety of companies.

Suggested Deep South road trip itinerary

We were on a longer USA road trip, so we didn’t follow this itinerary exactly – we actually stopped in quite a few more places throughout the South on our southern states road trip itinerary. But after spending time in all of these states, this article curates my personal highlights.

This itinerary will give you a taster of the South’s best big cities and small towns, history and culture, and food and the outdoors. 

This is definitely a choose-your-own-adventure itinerary that you can piece together based on your own personal interests. Start and end where you like, add or remove destinations. Make it your own!

It can be overwhelming, so feel free to get in touch if you’ve got any questions about planning your trip to the Deep South.

To do this itinerary, I think you need at least 3 weeks, but you could squeeze a Deep South road trip like this into 2 weeks if you only spend one or two days max in each location and cut out a couple of these suggested cities. 

If you follow the itinerary I’ve outlined below, it’ll look like this:

• Memphis, Tennessee – 2-3 days 
• Clarksdale, Mississippi – 2 days 
• Natchez, Mississippi – 2 days 
• New Orleans, Louisiana – 2-3 days
• Montgomery, Alabama – 1 day
• Atlanta, Georgia – 2-3 days
• Savannah, Georgia – 2 days
• Charleston, South Carolina – 2 days
• Asheville, North Carolina – 2 days
• Nashville, Tennessee – 2-3 days

And this is how this Deep South road trip 3 weeks itinerary looks on a map.

Let’s hit the road!

Deep South Road Trip Stop 1: Memphis, TN

Start your adventure through the American Deep South in Memphis. The Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll is one of the coolest places to visit in the United States , full of food, music, history and friendly people.

It’s also an easily accessible city from most parts of the United States, with all major airlines flying into Memphis International Airport. Compare prices and book your flight with Skyscanner .

If you’re flying into Memphis, you can rent a car easily at the airport – check prices, vehicles and availability online at Discover Cars . If you’ve already got your own car, then let’s go explore Memphis.

You could easily spend a week in Memphis, but there are plenty more bucket list places to see in the USA Deep South, so try to stick to 2-3 days here. 

Hit the highlights of the city, including:

• The many Memphis museums that cover history, culture and music
• Listen to music at the blues bars along famous Beale Street – Blues City Café, Blind Bear Speakeasy (a short stroll from Beale Street) and Rum Boogie Café Blues Hall are a few great choices
• You can’t visit Memphis without a stop at Sun Studio and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
• Graceland is the former home of Elvis Presley, and here you can check out plenty of memorabilia like his clothes, records and planes (that’s planes, plural !)
• Of course, the Civil Rights Museum is a must – it’s housed in the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on 4 April 1968

Where to eat in Memphis

One of the other highlights of a trip to Memphis is the food. Some of my favourite spots are:

• Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken | Join the queues itching to munch on perfectly fried chicken
• Central BBQ | One of the city’s most well-known BBQ joints
• The Beauty Shop | New American restaurant in a former beauty parlour

Where to stay in Memphis

We stayed in an Airbnb (that I don’t really recommend), but if you’re in Memphis for only a few days it’s better to stay central. Options include the famous The Peabody Hotel  (where Elvis signed his first contract) or Hotel Napoleon . 

Stop 2: Clarksdale, MS

Driving distance from Memphis to Clarksdale: 76 miles / 1.5 hours Stops along the way: Gateway to the Blues Museum , a modern, fun and interactive museum in Tunica

Head south into Mississippi to Clarksdale, one of the key stops on the Mississippi Blues Trail . 

We had only planned to stay here two nights, but it’s such a cool town that we booked a few extra nights. To stick to this Deep South road trip itinerary, plan on 2-3 nights (fewer days if you’re not that into blues music).

Clarksdale has been called home by many famous musicians, including Charley Patton and Ike Turner.

Music is the reason to visit this small, friendly town, and there are several must-visit joints: Ground Zero (co-owned by none other than Morgan Freeman), Red’s, The Shack Up Inn and the Delta Blues Alley Café. This is one of the best places to visit in southern USA for music lovers.

Outside of Clarksdale, there are several sites of interest:

• Indianola  – home to the  B.B. King Museum
• Money  – infamous as the small town where 14-year-old Emmett Till was brutally lynched. There’s a marker (part of the  Mississippi Freedom Trail ) at the location of Bryant’s Grocery. The  Emmett Till Interpretive Center  in nearby Sumner is located in the courthouse where his murderers stood trial and were subsequently acquitted despite mounds of evidence
• Tupelo  – in the birthplace of Elvis Presley, you can see the humble shotgun home he grew up in and visit the  Elvis Presley Museum

Where to eat in Clarksdale

• Abe’s Bar-B-Q  | Great BBQ in a small diner that’s been open since 1949
• Hick’s BBQ and Tamales | As the name says, this place serves up BBQ and tamales
• Hooker Grocer + Eatery  | Serves breakfast and lunch along with a range of groceries

Where to stay in Clarksdale

I highly, highly recommend the very unique Shack Up Inn . We stayed here in both the refurbished grain bins and the shotgun shacks. The whole place has a casual, homely vibe. Blues music is played here many nights throughout the week.

Other options in Clarksdale are The Clark House Inn , a beautiful old homestead, or the modern Lofts at the Five & Dime .

If you want to spend more time in Mississippi (a totally underrated state, in my opinion), I have a whole separate Mississippi road trip itinerary that’s a lot of fun.

Stop 3: Natchez, MS

Driving distance from Clarksdale to Natchez: 216 miles / 4 hours

Stops along the way:

• Cleveland, home to the  GRAMMY Museum Mississippi
• Indianola, where you’ll find the  B.B. King Museum
• Leland, where you’ll find the  Birthplace of Kermit the Frog Museum  
• Vicksburg, a key Civil War site and the location of the  Vicksburg National Military Park

Continue south to Natchez. To get here, you can join a section of the Natchez Trace Parkway, the 440-mile road that runs between Natchez and Nashville. It’s a stunning drive, especially in the fall, when the leaves turn red and gold.

Natchez sits on the Mississippi River, which means some gorgeous sunsets. Head down to Bluff Park for a stroll along the grassy waterfront area and the best sunset views.

It’s a city famous for its antebellum houses. Natchez surrendered quite quickly during the Civil War, which means that these homes weren’t burned or ransacked. There are more than 600 homes around the city, several of which are open to the public. Stanton Hall, Longwood Historic Home and Choctaw Hall Historic Home are some of the most popular to visit. 

During the  Natchez Pilgrimage (held each spring and fall), even more private homes are opened to the public.

While there’s a lot of beauty in the city, you can’t visit Natchez without learning about its tragic and terrible past. Natchez was once home to the second-largest slave market in the South. There’s a marker at the former Forks of the Road Slave Market that commemorates the atrocities of this time.

The African American Museum of History and Culture shares more stories and information about the role of African Americans in the development of Natchez. Miss Lou Heritage Tours has a variety of tours focused on history, music and important areas in the city.

For insights into even older history, visit the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians . The city is named after the Natchez, who inhabited this area for hundreds and hundreds of years. 

The Grand Village – now a museum and 128-acre park – is believed to have been their main ceremonial centre between 1682 and 1730. At the Grand Village you’ll find three historic mounds and a reconstructed house, as well as a nature trail.

Where to eat in Natchez

• Fat Mama’s Tamales  | Has the best tamales in town, if not in the state (this place is listed on the  Mississippi Delta Hot Tamale Trail )
• Magnolia Grill  | Popular joint right on the river

Where to stay in Natchez

The Monmouth Historic Inn  is a beautiful old home on a huge block of land, or the Guest House Historic Mansion   is in downtown Natchez.

Stop 4: New Orleans, LA

Driving distance from Natchez to New Orleans: 176 miles / 2.75 hours

New Orleans is a must-visit on any Deep South road trip. The Big Easy is where you’ll find music spilling out of bars into the streets, gorgeous architecture, unique festivals and traditions, great comfort food, a melting pot of cultures and history, and even some spooky ghost stories and voodoo mysticism. 

Some of the best things to do in New Orleans are:

• Hang out in Bourbon Street for live music and fun (both day and night) or Frenchmen Street
• Check out the lavish floats at Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World – a great way to learn about Mardi Gras if you can’t be here during the celebration
• Learn at the National World War II Museum
• Visit the stunning New Orleans Museum of Art
• Take a Sunday Brunch tour on the Steamboat Natchez along the Mississippi River
• Stroll through the Garden District and gape at the historic mansions, or join a food and history walking tour
• Check out the gorgeous architecture around the French Quarter
• Visit the city’s cemeteries and learn about their famous residents – you can do this solo or join a tour (the very brave could even visit the cemeteries at night )
• Hot sauce lovers will enjoy a trip to the Tabasco Factory Tour and Museum
• Go beyond voodoo dolls and discover the traditions and roots of voodoo at the New Orleans National Historic Voodoo Museum

Where to eat in New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its food. From chargrilled oysters to Po’Boys to beignets to boudin, eating the city’s classic dishes should be the centre point of your visit.

• Johnny’s Po-Boys | For the Po-Boys of course (I like mine with fried shrimp)
• Café Du Monde | This place is always packed, but the wait is worth it for the delicious beignets
• Central Grocery | Try a Muffuletta, a sandwich loaded with cheese and cold cuts like salami and ham, topped off with an olive salad
• Commander’s Palace | You’ll probably recognise the blue-and-white-striped front from Instagram. This upscale restaurant is popular so book well in advance

If you want to learn how to make some of New Orleans’ popular dishes, this Cajun and Creole Cooking Class gets great reviews.

Where to stay in New Orleans

The St James Hotel in the French Quarter has rooms with balconies, while the Hotel Tonnelle is in a great location in the Garden District.

Stop 5: Montgomery, AL

Driving distance from New Orleans to Montgomery: 309 miles / 4.5 hours

• Take a driving break in Biloxi and grab some sea air from the Biloxi Lighthouse
• Mobile, home to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
• Selma, to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge and reflect on the Civil Rights Movement

It’s time to continue further east and into “Sweet Home Alabama”, state number 4 on this trip.

Montgomery isn’t always on the list of must-visit places in the Deep South, but I highly recommend it for anyone with an interest in history. 

A major reason to visit Montgomery to is experience the Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice , managed by the Equal Justice Initiative. These two separate sites trace a long history of racial injustice in the United States, from slavery to today.

You’ll need to plan ahead to book your ticket to the Legacy Museum because they are timed. I’d recommend visiting here first, and then catching the complimentary shuttle to the memorial site.

I’m not going to sugarcoat it – this is a tough place to visit. It’s one of the most harrowing places I’ve ever been to. Don’t let the tragedy put you off visiting here – it should be essential for every American to visit.

One of the best things I did in Montgomery was visit the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, the church where Martin Luther King Jr. preached for six years. It’s not often you get to sit in the office of a legend who changed the world!

Our guide Wanda had such incredible spirit and energy and left me on such a high all day. Tours run Friday and Saturday, by appointment only.

Montgomery is also home to the Rosa Parks Library and Museum . Rosa lived in Montgomery from the age of 11, and the museum is an in-depth insight into how her actions sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Where to eat in Montgomery

• Central | One of the best places to eat in Montgomery, we had a delicious lunch here and thought the service was outstanding
• Capitol Oyster Bar | Popular spot overlooking the river

Where to stay in Montgomery

Montgomery’s accommodation options are mostly big-name hotel chains. We stayed at the DoubleTree in Downtown Montgomery which was centrally located (and I can never say no to those warm cookies!). There was a Spike Lee movie filming outside the window while we ate breakfast!

Another option that gets good ratings from guests is the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center .

Deep South Road Trip Stop 6: Atlanta, GA

Driving distance from Montgomery to Atlanta: 161 miles / 2.5 hours Stops along the way: Birmingham, to continue your history lesson at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Home to a population of almost 6 million, Atlanta is a hub for food and culture – and a rapidly growing film industry. 

Plan to spend a day or two in Atlanta, hitting a few of the highlights of the city (I’ve got more details in this guide to spending a weekend in Atlanta ):

• Visit the World of Coca-Cola , a museum dedicated to everyone’s favourite sugary beverage
• Sports lovers will go mad at the College Football Hall of Fame
• Check out the live music scene – Atlanta’s contribution to the music scene has included Outkast, TLC, Ray Charles, Usher and John Mayer

Top tip: Consider purchasing an Atlanta CityPASS  because you’ll save a tonne of money on some of these and other Atlanta attractions.

Where to eat in Atlanta

Oooh, prepare to eat your way through this city!

• LT’s Wings | A venerable Atlanta institution 
• Miller Union | For farm-to-table, seasonal dining
• Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen and Bar | For Gullah and Lowcountry inspired food
• Slutty Vegan | For vegan burgers that even carnivores won’t mind

Where to stay in Atlanta

We didn’t stop overnight in Atlanta, so I don’t have a personal hotel recommendation. But you can never go wrong with a W Hotel and the W Atlanta is located in Downtown. A fabulous historic hotel is The Candler Hotel Atlanta , built by the Coca-Cola founder.

Stop 7: Savannah, GA

Driving distance from Atlanta to Savannah: 248 miles / 3.5 hours

One of the most beautiful cities in the South, Savannah’s Spanish moss-lined streets are filled with well-preserved architecture, rich history – and a ghost or two.

Start your visit to Savannah with a walking tour. There are plenty of walking tours on offer – we chose to go with Old City Tours . The tour took us around the city, starting at Chippewa Square – you may recognise it from Forrest Gump .

We were guided through several of the 22 town squares dotted around Savannah, with stops in front of the famous Mercer Williams House and other spots. It was a great way to learn about the fascinating history of this city.

Although a bit creepy, one of the popular things to do in Savannah is visit the cemeteries in the area. Military generals, poets and politicians are all buried at Bonaventure Cemetery. You can pick up a free map to explore by yourself or join a Savannah cemetery tour .

If you want to get even creepier, join a ghost tour . Savannah is considered one of the most haunted cities in the entire United States. I jumped and almost screamed several times on our tour! I swear I saw someone looking at us from a window of an abandoned house…

Get out of the city and head to Tybee Island, just 20 minutes’ drive from Savannah. This lovely beach enclave is packed with holiday-makers in summer, but you can still find space to park a beach towel on the sand. There are also great seafood restaurants.

Where to eat in Savannah

• Little Duck Diner | This “vintage chic diner” serves up Southern classics with a modern twist
• The Grey | Book well in advance to get a seat at Mashama Bailey’s restaurant inside a restored 1938 Greyhound bus station

Because you’ve only got a few days in Savannah, you could even start your trip off with one of Savannah Taste Experience’s food tours to get a quick insight into the foodie scene.

Where to stay in Savannah

We struggled to find an affordable, pet-friendly option in Savannah so we had our first experience of an Extended Stay America motel . It was surprisingly fine, friendly and comfortable!

But I’d recommend something a little nicer for your stay in Savannah, like the Hamilton Turner Inn , a charming B&B, or the Broughton Corner Loft , which would be good for families.

Stop 8: Charleston, SC

Driving distance from Savannah to Charleston: 107 miles / 2 hours

• Driftwood Beach, a beach on Jekyll Island that’s filled with, well, driftwood – particularly spectacular for photographers at sunrise and sunset
• Angel Oak Tree to gaze in awe at this tree that’s estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old

Another stunning city in the Deep South, Charleston is a must-stop on this Southern USA road trip itinerary.

Charleston’s a very walkable city, so lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement. This is a great self-guided Charleston walking itinerary , which stops by some of the city’s highlights including Waterfront Park and the famous Pineapple Fountain, the French Huguenot Church, the Dock Street Theatre, the Pink House, the Old Slave Mart Museum and Rainbow Row.

When we visited Charleston, we took this intriguing Tragical Hystery tour . Its description – “stories of drunken founders, pirates, murderers and houses of ill repute” – gives you a good idea of the stories you’ll hear and characters you’ll meet along the way!

For a fascinating insight into the Gullah people of the area, book a spot on a Gullah Gullah tour . This tour deep dives into the history and culture of the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of West and Central Africans who were enslaved. These enslaved people were brought to coastal plantations and barrier islands, where they were able to retain many of their traditions – and even created a new Creole language, Gullah.

We didn’t visit Magnolia Plantation, but I hear that the Slavery to Freedom tour is very good. Many plantation tours gloss over their slave pasts, but Magnolia Plantation doesn’t, guiding visitors through the lives of some of the enslaved people who lived there.

Outside of the city, take a drive to Cypress Gardens to enjoy the walking trails and imagine yourself as an extra in The Notebook , which was filmed here. Beware the (fairly small) alligators you’ll see everywhere!

Where to eat in Charleston

• Bertha’s Kitchen | No-frills soul food in a family-run restaurant. Go early to make sure you get a taste of everything
• Chez Nous | Lovely, pint-sized spot with a rotating set menu. We loved sitting at the bar and chatting with staff and other diners
• Zero Restaurant + Bar | For a special night out, book a table at this fine-dining establishment inside the gorgeous Zero George Street Hotel

Where to stay in Charleston

The rooms at the 86 Cannon Historic Inn (adults only) are gorgeous.

Stop 9: Asheville, NC

Driving distance from Charleston to Asheville: 268 miles / 4 hours

Asheville is undoubtedly one of the coolest cities in the Deep South, with a chilled-out population, plenty of breweries and great places to eat, and access to some beautiful outdoor locations.

There’s loads to keep you occupied here:

• Visit the sprawling Biltmore Estate . Take a self-guided tour of just some of the hundreds of rooms built by George Washington Vanderbilt – you can even stay overnight
• Explore the working studios and galleries of dozens of artists around the River Arts District
• Check out Downtown Asheville to see well-preserved Art Deco buildings – don’t forget to stop in and browse a few titles with a glass of Champagne in hand at the cosy Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar , combining two of my favourite things!
• Sip a few of the local brews in “Beer City USA”. Asheville has more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city. Our favourites were Burial Beer Co and Wedge Brewing 
• Get out of the city for some hiking at Chimney Rock State Park or Grandfather Mountain.
• Or stay behind the wheel and enjoy a few hours exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway – the visitor centre is just outside of Asheville
• Try out your dance moves at Lake Lure, filming location of 80s classic Dirty Dancing

Where to eat in Asheville

• Cúrate | Our lunch here transported us back to our time eating tapas in Spain . The food here is divine, and they have a great vermouth menu
• Smoky Park Supper Club | We loved the grassy riverside location of this farm-to-table restaurant
• Tupelo Honey Café | Fried chicken, shrimp and grits and biscuits are all on the menu of this Southern café. But they have a few healthy green bowls, too (to which you can, of course, add fried chicken!)

Where to stay in Asheville

We stayed at an awesome Airbnb in Asheville but sadly it’s no longer listed. Instead, take a look at The Sinclair , three modern apartments in Downtown Asheville. Or, The Radical is known for its colourful, quirky design – and rooms have terraces.

Deep South Road Trip Stop 10: Nashville, TN

Driving distance from Asheville to Nashville: 294 miles / 4.5 hours

• Knoxville, the first capital of Tennessee and home to some Civil War sites
• Gatlinburg, the “Gateway to the Smoky Mountains”, provides easy access to the most-visited national park in the United States
• Pigeon Forge, to hit up the rides at Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s own amusement park!
• Chattanooga, to see the incredible Rock City , Ruby Falls and Lookout Mountain (you can’t miss the signs for Rock City – you’ll see the billboards along the highway for miles)
• Lynchburg, to tour the Jack Daniel’s Distillery (only if you’ve got a designated driver, of course – or you can take a day tour from Nashville )
• Huntsville, to see the U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Head back into Tennessee, where we’ll end this Deep South road trip in Music City, USA – also known as Nashville, the capital of the state.

But the trip isn’t over yet – make sure you plan to have at least two days to enjoy the city.

Nashville is one of the most popular cities in the USA to visit, and there’s plenty to do here. I have a whole post dedicated to things to do in Nashville , and a few of the must-dos are:

• Take a tour or see a show at the historic Ryman Auditorium
• Visit the Grand Ole Opry , the stage that launched the careers of many stars
• Check out country music royalty at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
• Wander through the Johnny Cash Museum , home to the largest collection of The Undertaker’s memorabilia
• Explore Nashville’s famous murals – just be prepared to line up for a while to get a photo!
• Explore the highlights of city at your own pace, hopping on and off the Old Town Trolley  
• Head out for a night on the town, exploring the honky tonks along Broadway – although there’s live music here at all hours of the day
• Take a look inside the National Museum of African American Music

Where to eat in Nashville

Nashville is a foodie’s dream. There are so many places to eat that it can be hard to decide where to begin, so perhaps book a spot on a food tour . You’ll get to eat classic Nashville dishes while also picking up a few historical facts along the way.

Other popular places to eat in Nashville include:

• Biscuit Love | Prepare to queue to get your hands on these famous biscuits
• Five Daughters Bakery | Incredible, melt-in-the-mouth donuts and pastries (I had to go twice!)
• Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint | Don’t even bother eating before you come here – save space for the mouthwatering BBQ at this joint with several locations around the city 
• Hattie B’s Hot Chicken | Dare you to try the “Shut the cluck up!” heat level!!
• The Treehouse | Yummy food in a lovely setting

Where to stay in Nashville

We stayed in an Airbnb similar to this one during our trip to Nashville. The Bobby Hotel is an über cool boutique hotel with a rooftop pool and a central location, while the Thompson Nashville is in the Gulch neighbourhood.

You can drop your car back in Nashville (make sure you arranged a one-way trip when you booked your rental ) and fly out of Nashville International Airport . This airport services cities across the country, with all the major airlines flying in here.

While your Deep South Road trip is over, you definitely won’t forget this trip for a long time!

Travel tips for a Deep South road trip

Now that you know where you’re planning to go on your Southern USA road trip, here are a few more travel tips to help you get the most out of your trip.

When to visit the Deep South

You can take this road trip through the South most of the year, but the best time to visit the Deep South is March to June, and September and October. July and August bring sticky heat, and January can be downright freezing in some parts of the region.

We did our drive through the Deep South between mid-March and early May, and had great sunshine, although we did have to wear jackets earlier in the trip.

You could also time your trip with some of the awesome festivals the Deep South throws on:

• Mardi Gras in New Orleans (there are also Mardi Gras celebrations in Baton Rouge and Lafayette) – book ahead for this as accommodation is usually limited and pretty expensive
• Jazz and Heritage Festival or French Quarter Festival in New Orleans
• St Patrick’s Day in Savannah – one of the U.S.’s largest St Paddy’s Day celebrations
• The Dirty Dancing Festival in Lake Lure, NC
• Tupelo Elvis Festival – watch Elvis Presley impersonators vie for the prize

This is just a handful of some of them… there are so many more food, music and culture festivals to check out.

Pick up some handy travel guides

A few of the books we had close to hand on our Deep South road trip were:

• This is My South by Caroline Eubanks
• Lonely Planet’s Florida and the South’s Best Trips which highlights some of the best southern road trips
• Deep South by travel writer Paul Theroux, a narrative of his journey through the Deep South, which gave me some interesting background into history, culture and social issues

Travel insurance

I always purchase travel insurance. Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare policies from multiple providers. World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Want to create your own Deep South road trip itinerary?

The itinerary I’ve outlined here is what I’d recommend based on the places I loved – but with this road trip, you get to choose your own adventure. 

Follow the itinerary I’ve outlined above, or adapt it to suit your start and end points. Or, plan your road trip around a theme. Here are some ideas for more Deep South road trips based on themes like music and history so you can really curate an itinerary that’s perfect for you.

If you like…

The Deep South is the birthplace of blues music in the United States. This region has bred some of the country’s most famous musicians, from blues to rock ‘n’ roll, country to pop. Plan a trip around some of these musical cities and regions:

• There are more than 200 markers on the Mississippi Blues Trail , highlighting key sites including the supposed “birthplace of the blues” (Dockery Farms), important juke joints and the homes of musicians
• Memphis, home to studios where some of the world’s most well-known music was made
• Nashville is the home of country music, but there’s a whole lot more to explore
• New Orleans, where you can while away the night listening to jazz in dark bars
• Tupelo, Elvis Presley’s birthplace
• Dollywood , Dolly Parton’s own amusement park where you can listen to live bluegrass and country music before stepping on to a rollercoaster

If there’s one thing you can plan on when you’re road tripping the Deep South, it’s that you’ll rarely have a bad meal. The South is known for its cuisine, full of rich flavours and steeped in history and tradition.

Every state has its regional dishes and must-stop-for foods. A few highlights to plan a road trip around:

• Barbecue – every state has its own way of barbecuing and some states even have multiple ways. Dry, wet, slathered in sauce – try them all
• White barbecue sauce – best served on pulled pork and found in Alabama
• Gumbo – a seafood stew best tried in Louisiana
• Crawfish – slap down some newspaper on a table and pick apart these shellfish, or try them in the classic crawfish étouffée, a spicy Cajun stew
• Fried chicken – a delicious staple found everywhere, including the hot, hot chicken Nashville is famous for
• Shrimp and grits – my preferred way to eat grits, but not the only way you can try grits
• Po’Boys – crusty rolls filled with meat, salad and sauce (I like mine with shrimp)
• Catfish – always fried or deep fried
• Fried okra and collard greens – get your veggies in
• Fried pickles – the snack I never knew I needed
• Tamales – try a few on the Mississippi Delta Hot Tamale Trail
• Pie – peach, apple, lemon meringue, banana cream, pecan, Mississippi mud, pumpkin, you name it, these pies are always a deliciously sweet way to finish off a meal.

This list is by no means exhaustive! There are so many dishes that are central to life in the Deep South, and it’s fun (although calorific) to try as many as you can on an American road trip.

Getting outdoors

The Deep South is home to many national and state parks, forests, lakes and other natural features. There are excellent hiking, biking, kayaking and rock climbing adventures. Create your own Deep South road trips by planning journeys through some of these natural beauties.

• Smoky Mountains National Park may be the country’s busiest national park, but it covers 816 square miles, so you’re bound to find a few quieter spots
• Asheville is a great place to base yourself for hiking to Grandfather Mountain, Chimney Rock State Park and for accessing the stunning Blueridge Parkway 
• Chattanooga is surrounded by mountains and forests, so it’s a great spot for rock climbers and people into bouldering, mountain biking and hiking. It’s been named “best town in the USA” multiple times
• We enjoyed the hikes around Boone , and it’s also known for fishing, tubing on the river in summer and kayaking
• The Natchez Trace Parkway is a gorgeous 444-mile (715km) road from Natchez, MS, to Nashville, TN. It’s a great option for those who love the outdoors but want to be behind the wheel
• Same goes for the Blue Ridge Parkway – this is a fantastic drive during fall

Civil Rights history

The fight for civil rights took place across the entirety of the United States, but the most important locations, decisions and events were in the states in the Deep South.

• The best place to start researching a Civil Rights-themed Deep South road trip is on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail website . This trail was announced in 2018. It highlights “places where activists successfully sought equal access to public education, public transportation and voting rights”
• Birmingham, Alabama, has the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and the 16 th Street Baptist Church is where a bombing killed four young Black girls in 1963
• In Selma, Alabama, the Edmund Pettus Bridge is the location of the brutal Bloody Sunday beatings. The city also has the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
• Jackson, Mississippi, has the insightful and moving Mississippi Civil Rights Museum (well worth a visit) and the Medgar Evers Home Museum
• In Greensboro, North Carolina, you can see the seats where students began their sit-in in 1960 at the F.W. Woolworths Building, which is now the International Civil Rights Center and Museum

Civil War history

The American Civil War, fought between 1861 and 1865, was the bloodiest battle fought on U.S. soil. The northern Union states defeated the southern Confederate states, resulting in the 13 th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

As an Australian, the Civil War is a topic I’m not familiar with at all, so it was fascinating to visit this part of the U.S. to learn more. If you’re a history buff or you want to get your kids out of the classroom to see history first hand, there are plenty of places to revisit this important part of the country’s story:

• Vicksburg National Military Park in Vicksburg, Mississippi
• Fort Sumter National Monument in Charleston, South Carolina
• Shiloh National Military Park in Shiloh, Tennessee

Virginia is also a state you should put on your Deep South road trip route if Civil War history is an interest of yours. It’s littered with Civil War sites, including the Fredericksburg Battlefield, the Manassas National Battlefield Park and of course the Appomattox Courthouse, which is where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant on 9 April, 1865.

The Deep South has produced several important literary figures including William Faulkner, Alice Walker, Zora Neal Hurston, Harper Lee, Anne Rice and John Grisham.

There are several literary sites you can visit throughout the South to see authors’ homes or locations that inspired their novels and poems.

• Rowan Oak in Oxford, Mississippi, was the home of William Faulkner. His grave is also nearby in the Oxford Memorial Cemetery 
• The Tennessee Williams Home is in Columbus, Mississippi, while the Tennessee Williams Rectory Museum is in Clarksdale, Mississippi
• The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum is in Montgomery, Alabama
• For a modern-day writer, you’ll find the John Grisham Room in the Mitchell Library at Mississippi State University in Starkville 

You could easily spend months travelling through the Deep South and still not see (or eat) everything. But hopefully this post has helped you to start planning the perfect Deep South road trip itinerary!

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

What are the places you’re hoping to visit on a Deep South road trip?

Related posts

Looking for more USA road trip ideas? You might like these articles!

• New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary: 7 & 10-Day Options in the Land of Enchantment
• Mississippi Road Trip: 7 Fascinating Places to Visit in the Magnolia State
• 17 Fun Things to do in West Texas: An Unmissable West Texas Road Trip
• Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary: How to Plan a 7-Day Trip to the Mighty 5

USA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around the USA online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in the USA. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout the USA on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to the USA will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

2 thoughts on “Plan a Deep South Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do and Eat”

Fantastic write up! I’ve been itching for a Deep South road trip ever since reading The Deepest South of All and Dispatches from Pluto by Richard Grant and Theroux’s Deep South. Thanks for putting all of this together – we’ll be doing a 6 week road trip through the area in Sep/Oct and your insights will be invaluable.

Have the BEST time! It’s such a great part of the US, and 6 weeks is such a good amount of time to spend there.

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The ultimate usa deep south road trip itinerary.

I still remember like it was yesterday. But it’s almost two years ago. During one of those typical winter dips, Jan and I decided that we wanted to spend our summer vacation in the United States. Immediately I started looking for plane tickets to all kinds of destinations from which to plan a road trip through the most epic national parks. Unfortunately, we had a limited budget and the prices of plane tickets quickly took off. One day I was home alone and found two very cheap plane tickets to Miami. I had been here before, but Jan not yet. Immediately I started to think of the many places in the south of the United States that were still on our bucket list. That is how the idea of ​​a Deep South Road trip originated.

I quickly called Jan and asked if he was open to a total surprise. He gave me free rein and I booked the tickets. I quickly mapped out a first itinerary and in the evening I surprised him with the destination for our summer vacation. He was really happy! And a few months later we left on a Deep South Road trip.

** disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. That means we can receive a commission if you buy something that we really recommend. There are no extra costs you and it supports our blog. Thank you.  ** 

Deep South USA

When I drove from New York City to Miami by car a few years ago, I was pleasantly surprised by Southern States. Especially the beautiful nature, southern hospitality and the delicious and abundant food made my mouth water for more. The Deep South is an area with its own culture and history. And this is what appeals to me. Unfortunately, I didn’t have much time to discover more then. So returning to this fascinating part of the United States was high on my bucket list.

How to get to the Deep South?

From Belgium it’s best to travel by plane to a destination that is on your Deep South road trip itinerary. First, check which destination is best accessible from your place of departure. Within the United States you can always opt for a domestic flight if necessary. We did it the other way around and first chose our flight destination Miami, because of our limited budget and then planned our road trip from here.

You can rent a car from any airport through various car rental companies. But it’s best to book online in advance. We rented a car from Enterprise car rental and were very satisfied with the service.

Another great way to do this Deep South road trip is by renting an RV. This is very popular in this area of the States, since the weather is so amazing here. So if you planning a stay in one of the best RV parks , be sure to book your stay in advance.

Best time to travel the Deep South?

The best time to travel to the Deep South in the US is from November to May. Then the temperatures are the most pleasant for road tripping. In the summer it’s tropically warm and very humid. And yes, we were there during July and can absolutely agree. Besides, it’s also hurricane season from June to November, which means that your trip can be somewhat affected. But all in all, the weather conditions didn’t really affect our road trip. On the contrary, the harsh thunderstorms sometimes provided the most impressive lightning bolts that lit up the whole sky. That was quite special to see. Definitely check the weather before you go and prepare well by packing the right things for your Florida vacation and road trip. 

Our USA Deep South itinerary

Stop 1: Miami

We arrived at the Miami airport in the early evening.  There are plenty of ways to get from Miami airport to South beach , but we opted for a rental car.

After we picked up our rental car at Enterprise car rental we left for our stay the Hyde Midtown Miami hotel . IWe had exceptionally booked a hotel for the first two nights. It was just the weekend of July 4th, the US National Day, and we didn’t want to risk finding decent accommodation at a reasonable price. When in Miami you can also op to stay in one of the best Art Deco hotels to make your vacation a little more special.

When we arrived at the hotel we saw the sun set from the roof terrace. We decided to start our vacation with a tropical cocktail in the bar opposite the hotel.

The next day we went out early to discover all the highlights of Miami . We only had one day and I wanted to give Jan the ultimate Miami experience. We started downtown Miami in Wynwood with the Wynwood walls as the main attraction. There we admired the most impressive street art.

Then we went to South Beach where we ended up in an opposite world. From the layed back urban vibe in Wynwood to the unique culture on Ocean Drive where being seen is a real art. But this is exactly what makes Miami such a versatile destination. After a walk in the pastel-colored Art Deco district, we enjoyed happy hour on Ocean Drive. With a view of the sunset over Miami Beach we enjoyed a giant cocktail including a real parade of the most luxurious cars.

Even though we were excited to expirience Miami nightlife after that cocktail, we decided wisely to go to sleep so that we could start our road trip without a headache the following day. Our next destination was Orlando with a stopover in the Everglades. Even though, if you don’t have a car it’s easy to get from Miami to Orlando by bus .

Read more about Miami

How to spend one perfect day in Miami | USA

Stop 2: everglades.

The next day we were fresh and brisk to really start our Deep South road trip. After a fresh morning dip in the rooftop pool of the Hyde Midtown Miami hotel , we left for The Everglades.

Everyone knows that an airboat tour is the most fun way to admire the fauna and flora of the Everglades. I already had good memories of this from my previous Florida trip. With this thought I convinced Jan that an Everglades airboat tour should definitely not be missing on our Deep South road trip. After a little search on google, I found Jungle Erv’s Airboats that offered airboat tours through the mangrove. I hadn’t done this before and it sounded very promising.

An hour later we were on the airboat speeding through the mangrove. Unfortunately we couldn’t spot much wildlife. Our captain was an excellent boat driver, but as a guide he was rather quiet and we didn’t learn much about the mangroves of the Everglades. Afterwards we were invited to an alligator show where alligators were exhibited to the visitors. They were tied around their mouths so visitors could touch them. I could hardly hide my dislike.

Even though this airboat tour was a bit disappointing, I recommend that you definitely include one. But go for an organization that focuses more on the beautiful fauna and flora of the Everglades.

A little disappointed we went looking for a place to have lunch. That’s how we ended up at Joanie’s blue crab café where you can enjoy local dishes in an authentic setting. Especially the delicious, refreshing key lime pie put me back in a cheerful mood. And good, because it was already time to continue our road trip to our next destination Orlando.

Read more about The Everglades

My experiences with Everglades airboat tours in Florida – not what I’d envisioned

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Stop 3: Universal studios Orlando

This was Jan’s day! As a digital artist within a theme park in Belgium, he had to visit a theme park at all costs. And where better than Orlando, the theme park paradise? His choice was quickly made. Universal Studios had been on his bucket list for a long time.

We bought our tickets online the night before. We left for the park an hour before opening time. When we arrived at Universal studios, everything went very smoothly. We followed the parking guide for Universal Studios Orlando by fellow travel bloggers ‘Inside our suitcase’. We quickly found a parking space and walked to the entrance without any problems. There we had to wait until opening time.

First we went to the beautiful themed wizarding world of Harry Potter, where we got to go on the first ride of the day on Harry Potter’s forbiden journey inside Hogwarts. This attraction was truly phenomenal. Then we strolled through the recreated village where you can find the best souvenir shops. Then we wanted to go on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, unfortunately this attraction remained closed all day.

To be honest, I found the wizarding world of Harry Potter to be the most impressive part of the park. There are still a lot of cool attractions, but some parts of the park are a bit outdated. It was also very busy that day, so we had trouble finding a place to have lunch during the afternoon. But Jan thought it was a fantastic day and happy hubby, happy life? Isn’t it?

Orlando is of course known for it’s many theme parks, but this city has so much more to offer. There are so many fun things to do in Orlando .  Close to Orlando you can also find some of the most popular beaches in Florida such as Daytona beach. But the most beautiful one is definitely Cocoa beach .  So don’t forget to make time to explore more of Orlando and the coast during your road trip. You can find the  best Orlando Getyourguide deals below.

Stop 4: Herlong Mansion Micanopy

After a day of fun in Universal Studios, we went to the heart of Florida. I really wanted to visit the natural springs where I had already seen beautiful photos from on instagram. The Ginnie Springs were at the top of my list. So I started looking for a place to stay nearby. This way I found B&B the Herlong Mansion in Micanopy . Yes, we stayed in this beautiful, authentic mansion. Just like that one from “The Notebook” with those impressive oak trees in the front.

When we arrived in Micanopy, I was immediately charmed by the small, sleeping town. By the way, The Herlong Mansion   fitted that picture perfectly. The entire house was decorated in Victorian style. That made our stay an experience in itself. We decided that day to just enjoy the beautiful mansion and take a walk through the mysterious town of Micanopy, which is also known for its many antique shops. This was the ideal place to relax and really enjoy the southern hospitality in a local setting.

The nearest town is Gainsville about a 20 minutes drive from The Herlong Mansion. Definitely recommended if you prefer a more vibrant area to stay. In this student city you will find lots of pleasant bars and eateries.

Read more about our stay in The Herlong Mansion

The most authentic stay in Micanopy Florida: B&B Herlong Mansion

Stop 5: ginnie springs.

After a short night at the Herlong Mansion , we woke up early to visit Ginnie Springs . We had heard that it could be very busy, so we wanted to be the first there at opening time. No sooner said than done, after an hour’s drive we were the first visitors of Ginnie Springs that day. We rented a tube and went to all sources on the domain to take pictures. Yes, that is also part of the job. And fortunately, because there were already a lot of visitors in the late morning.

After taking 1001 photos, we decided it was time to relax. On our couple tube we floated down the Santa Fé river while enjoying the beautiful nature, the blissful weather with an occasional refreshing dip. Definitely a top activity on our Deep South road trip.

Besides Ginnie Springs there is still a lot to do in Central Florida such as the impressive Ocala forest. There are many other beautiful springs in this region as well. You can even kayak with manatees in Florida ! Unfortunately we couldn’t stay longer and I regret that a bit now.

After our tube adventure, we spent another night in The Herlong Mansion . The next day we slept a little longer and started our day with a delicious mimosa breakfast. Then we left for Savannah.

Before leaving Florida we paid a visit to a super cool retro diner in Jacksonville where we enjoyed a delicious Key Lime milkshake. If you want to stay a bit longer in Jacksonville be sure to check out Jacksonville beach which is one of Florida’s best beaches for surfing .

Read more about Ginnie Springs

Tubing Ginnie Springs, the perfect family trip| Florida | USA

Stop 6: savannah.

Arriving in picturesque Savannah, we checked into the beautiful hotel The Alida . It was already noon so we went straight out. We walked along River Street, one of the best things to do in Savannah . And enjoyed the hustle and bustle here. The historic setting of old industrial warehouses along the river, now transformed into local boutiques, immediately brought me back to my first visit to Savannah years ago. I really love this town. The best things was that this time I could share this visit with Jan. Savannah is definitely one of the most romantic places in the USA.

It was very hot so we decided to go back to The Alida for a refreshing dip in the pool. That evening we enjoyed the delicious Southern cuisine with a culinary twist at Rhett. This restaurant is located on the ground floor of The Alida   and is highly recommended. For a nightcap we went to the amazing rooftop bar The Lost Square on the roof of The Alida . From here you have a magical view of Savannah!

The next morning we took a walk to Forsyth park. One of the many amazing historical sites in Savannah . Even though it was still early, there were already quite a few visitors in the park. The dazzling, centrally located fountain attracts not only many admirers, but also many artists who want to immortalize this image on the canvas. Around the park you will also find numerous beautiful houses built during the Victorian era.

Then we drove on to Wormsloe plantation, known for its long, dreamy driveway between two rows of impressive ancient oak trees. And its reputation certainly lives up to it. The ruins of the plantation house were less impressive, but you can take beautiful walks on the domain. This is definiteley one of t he most romantic things to do in Savannah .

After a hearty lunch in the diner on Abercorn, an authentic diner from the 50ties, we left for our next stop. Too bad we ran out of time to discover more of Savannah.

Read more about Savannah and our stay in the Alida

Where to stay in Savannah Georgia – The Alida hotel

Stop 7: charleston.

We arrived in Charleston early in the evening and had only a few hours to discover this town. We lost a lot of time because of our visit to Wormsloe plantation. And because we had just a few hours we decided to just walk as much as possible.

We passed the famous Rainbow Row, a row of historic houses in all colors of the rainbow. Then we walked along the coast through the beautiful waterfront Park and finally ended at the city market where we found numerous stalls with local products and nice souvenirs.

At that point we were so tired that we decided to go to sleep. Our plan was to leave early the next day and drive all the way to New Orleans. So we hadn’t really been able to experience Charleston as we initially planned. Unfortunately, you have to make choices every now and then while traveling. Despite our short visit, we found Charleston to be a very nice and pleasant city. Definitely the place to be for a romantic getaway on the East Coast .

Driving day: Charleston – New Orleans

We woke up early for our 11-hour drive, skipping breakfast to hit the road towards New Orleans. We planned a lunch break in Atlanta, which, thanks to its closeness to both Charleston and Savannah, serves as a perfect starting point for weekend getaways from Atlanta . In the meantime, we had made it our mission to find nice American diners while driving. In Atlanta we stopped at OK Cafe. We were a bit shocked when we saw a line of people queuing to eat there, but that means it had to be good! We decided to join the queue and after 20 minutes we sat at a table, feasting on a delicious sandwich.

I do regret not staying a bit longer to discover Atlanta . I heard such great things about this city. But we were on a tight schedule. When we left Atlanta the weather became more and more turbulent. Hurricane Barry had just crossed New Orleans. And we had to pay the price along the way. Many heavy rain showers followed each other, which resulted in a lot of delay. We arrived in New Orleans very late. Fortunately, we were very well received by Hotel Indigo Nola Garden District .

Read more about our stay in Hotel Indigo Nola Garden District

Where to stay in New Orleans’ Garden District – Hotel Indigo

Stop 8: new orleans.

I had been looking forward to this for so long! Finally I was in bustling New Orleans . Maybe a little less vibrant now since Hurricane Barry had just passed. After a delicious breakfast in bed at hotel Indoga Nola Garden District we went straight out to explore the streets of the French Quarter. I admired the beautiful architecture, a mix of American and Creole town houses and cottages. After a walk it was time for a coffee break at Cafe du Monde. Of course when you’re there you have to taste a typical, local beignet. Delicious btw!

In the afternoon we decided to return to hotel Indigo   to further explore the Garden District from there. Once again we saw real architectural gems. In the evening we ventured into the nightlife of New Orleans. For this we wisely hired an uber. We were introduced to the famous drink “the hand grenate” on Bourbon Street and enjoyed a musical dance evening.

The day after, we decided to take a day trip from New Orleans to get to know the surrounding Louisiana countryside better. In the morning we took a swamp tour with Cayun Encounters. In contrast to our Everglades airboat tour, we could spot a lot of wildlife here. The guide was also able to tell a lot about this region, but also his personal experiences with Hurricane Katrina. This tour is highly recommended!

In the afternoon we visited Oak Alley Plantation where we got a better insight of ​​life on a sugar cane plantation during the early 19th century. Very interesting was that you gained insight into the perspective of the masters and the slaves. Besides that Oak Alley Plantation is a very beautiful domain to visit.

Read more about our adventures in New orleans

The perfect 3 day New Orleans itinerary | USA

The perfect day trip from New Orleans | USA

Driving day: new orleans – sanibel eiland.

After two days it was time to say goodbye to New Orleans. I would have liked to spend a little more time here as well. That day we returned to Florida. We decided to take one full day to drive to Sanibel Island. It was a long drive and we decided to have dinner at Joes New York diner in Tampa in the evening to keep our diner tradition alive.

We didn’t really have the time to explore more of Tampa. But if you’re in the neighborhood you should definitely plan a visit to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium . I’ve heard so many great things about it. So that’s definitely on my bucket list for when I visit Florida again.

The further south we moved, the more turbulent the weather became again. At sunset we were treated to a tropical storm with the most impressive lightning bolts.

Stop 9 Sanibel eiland

The next morning we woke up on the beautiful island of Sanibel, where we would spend three days. There are so many cool things to do on Sanibel, but we mostly wanted to relax after this eventful road trip. That’s why we had chosen Sanibel Island as our last destination. First of all  because it is much more peaceful than in other coastal towns and secondly because this island has some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida .  The following days we did nothing but go from beach to beach. That’s how we discovered the most beautiful beaches on Sanibel Island . 

Very strange that we could quickly switch our rhythm from a busy road trip to the peaceful vibe of the island. We were now completely relaxed to travel back home.

Discover the most beautiful beaches on Sanibel

The 5 best beaches on Sanibel Island | Florida | USA

Stop 10 miami.

Since we had an early morning flight, we decided to spend the night in Miami one more time. So we spent the last afternoon of our trip on South Beach.

But we obviously didn’t do this without visiting the 11th Street diner first.

You can imagine that during this trip I gained some weight. But it was totally worth it!

After a short night we left for the airport where we said goodbye to our trusty rental car that had guided us safely through all weather conditions.

Where to stay during a Deep South road trip?

Because we don’t want to be limited during a road trip, we usually don’t book stays in advance. If we want to stay longer in one destination, or have to skip another due to time constraints, we can do this without having to worry about canceling a stay.

That’s why we use the booking.com app. Very useful is that you can make last minute reservations for the same day. You immediately see which hotels are still available. And the reservation literally takes just one minute.

If you would like to book your stay in advance, you can use the booking.com app as well. But check till when you can cancel your reservation free of charge. If you want to adjust your travel schedule, you still can before that expire date. 

Below you can find the direct links via booking.com to all the locations we visited on our Deep South road trip.

Miami downtown Miami Beach Everglades Orlando Micanopy Gainesville High Springs Jacksonville Savannah Charleston New Orleans Baton Rouge Tampa Sanibel Captiva Fort Myers beach

Extend your road trip

If we had more time for this Deep South road trip, we would first of all travel a bit slower and definitely spend more time in the Everglades, Central Florida, Savannah and Charleston. Secondly I would also add a few more destinations. Key West , the Great Smokey Mountains, Nashville and Memphis are still on my bucket list. These destinations are also perfect to add to this Deep South road trip itinerary. Or you can even extend you trip with a couple of destinations on the West Coast and make it a East Coast – West Coast road trip . 

Our Deep South road trip was a really great experience. The variation between big, vibrant cities and picturesque towns, beautiful nature ranging from tropical beaches to the most magical forests with natural springs, fun day trips alternating with cultural activities and last but not least fhe delicious southern cuisine, made this one of the most memorable trips ever.

Would be a Deep South road trip be something you would like to do? Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for reading?

Yours truly,

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Sarah de gheselle, 22 thoughts on “ the ultimate usa deep south road trip itinerary ”.

What a wonderful trip. Wow. The older I get, the more I love lingering at each stop. I’d love to take a month to do what you did. A girl can dream, right?

I know! I wish we had more time to do this trip as well. It was a bit rushed, but so happy I saw a bit more of the South. I hope I can return soon to explore more 😉

What a great road trip! So many wonderful cities to visit in the south!

Indeed, we loved every place we’ve visited and hope we can return one day to spend a bit more time on every location.

So much to see on a Southern road and so many delicious things to eat! Florida is a whole different animal, so I’m glad you enjoyed it!

I know right! Especially the food! 🙂

I love a good road trip! This looks so dope as I never considered Miami to be a road trip spot, esp to start!

Haha, me neighter, but that was our only option if we wanted to fly cheap. In the end it was one of my best road trips ever.

The Everglades are super fun! Nothing quite like an airboat ride there! New Orleans is also great and so different, obviously! Thanks for a fun post!

Thank you! Glad you liked it 🙂

This sounds incredible! I would love to do this kind of road trip – all your pictures look incredible! Miami and New Orleans in particular!

Thank you so much! That means a lot to me.

Gorgeous photos! I live in North Carolina and would love to take this route.

Thank you! I would definitely recommend it, even though I don’t live in the States 🙂 I loved this part of it!

This is an amazing guide! I’d love to spend some more time in Florida and New Orleans. Thanks for sharing, I am saving for later! 🙂

Thank you so much! 🙂

Hey Sarah! The USA looks good on you! a bit seeing you in Disneyworld, but Savannah and Charleston definitely seem more your style!. Loved your stops and pics. Come back again!

Thank you so much. Yes, wanna revisit Savannah and Charleston already 🙂

I love your pictures! It looks beautiful! Ginnie springs look like the cenotes of the Yucatan in Mexico! https://dive-x.shop/en/best-cenotes-to-scuba-dive-in-mexico/ Looking forward to read you again!

They do, don’t they! I love natural springs like that.

This road trip guide to Deep South is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

Thank you so much! We had a blast. This is such a beautiful region to do a road trip.

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17 Must-See Spots in the Deep South

When most people think of the deep south, they imagine a place of plantations and poverty-stricken rural areas. While this is certainly part of the deep south, there is so much more to see and do in this region of the country.

From bustling city streets to serene natural landscapes, there are endless possibilities when it comes to planning a vacation in the deep south.

From the world-renowned beaches of Florida to the mountainous beauty of Tennessee, the Deep South offers a wealth of vacation destinations to suit every taste.

There is more to the deep south than meets the eye. While rural poverty and plantations are certainly a part of this region, there is also much to see and do in the deep south’s cities.

Table of Contents

Deep South Vacation Ideas

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation or want to get away from it all and explore the natural beauty of the area, we’ve got you covered.

Here are just a few of the many places you can explore on your next trip.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a unique and vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Founded in 1718 by French settlers, the city has been influential in the development of jazz and blues music, and its architecture reflects a mix of French, Spanish, and American influences.

Today, New Orleans is known for its festive atmosphere, tasty food, and passionate football fans. The city is also home to a number of interesting landmarks, including the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and Jackson Square. And of course, no visit to New Orleans would be complete without taking a ride on a steamboat down the Mississippi River.

Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation or a chance to experience some of America’s most fascinating history and culture, New Orleans is definitely worth a visit.

2. Memphis, Tennessee

Nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, Memphis is a city with a long and rich history. Home to a diverse range of people and cultures, Memphis is a place where music, food, and art come together.

Visitors can explore historic sites like the National Civil Rights Museum and Graceland, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene on Beale Street. And no trip to Memphis would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s legendary BBQ.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Memphis is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Memphis is sure to have something for everyone.

3. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is a city with plenty to offer visitors. From country music to hot chicken, there’s something for everyone in Music City. And with a lively downtown and friendly locals, it’s easy to see why Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. If you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation, here are four reasons why Nashville should be at the top of your list.

First, Nashville is home to some of the best country music venues in the world. Whether you want to see a show at the historic Grand Ole Opry or catch a rising star at one of the many honky-tonks on Broadway, you’re sure to have a good time.

Second, the food in Nashville is absolutely incredible. In addition to hot chicken, you can find all sorts of delicious Southern dishes like barbecue and fried green tomatoes. And if you’re looking for a good place to eat late-night, there are plenty of great places open until the early hours of the morning.

Third, Nashville has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. From live music clubs to dance clubs, there’s something for everyone in Nashville.

And last but not least, the people in Nashville are some of the friendliest in the United States. Whether you’re looking for directions or just want to chat, locals are always happy to help out.

So what are you waiting for? Nashville is a city with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, be sure to add Nashville to your list.

4. Birmingham, Alabama

If you’re looking for a unique place to visit, Birmingham, Alabama is definitely worth a trip. This vibrant city is steeped in history and culture, and there’s plenty to see and do.

From iconic civil rights landmarks to world-class museums, Birmingham has something for everyone. And of course, no visit to Birmingham would be complete without sampling some of the delicious southern cuisines.

Whether you’re looking to learn about America’s past or just enjoy some good food, Birmingham is definitely worth a visit.

5. Atlanta, Georgia

If you’re looking for a vibrant city with plenty to see and do, then you’ll want to add Atlanta, Georgia to your list of must-visit destinations. From its rich history to its diverse array of attractions, there’s something for everyone in Atlanta.

For history buffs, there are a number of sites related to the Civil War and the civil rights movement. The city is also home to several museums, including the High Museum of Art and the College Football Hall of Fame.

Atlanta is well-known for its food scene, and you’ll find everything from traditional Southern cuisine to international dishes.

And of course, no visit to Atlanta would be complete without taking in a game at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.

So whether you’re looking to explore new cultures or simply want to enjoy a weekend in a lively city, be sure to add Atlanta, Georgia to your travel itinerary.

6. Savannah, Georgia

There are many reasons to consider visiting Savannah, Georgia. For starters, the city is bursting with history. Founded in 1733, Savannah was the first city in the American colonies to be planned out in a grid pattern.

Today, the city is known for its beautiful Spanish moss-draped oak trees and cobblestone streets lined with stately mansions. Visitors can explore this history by taking a walking tour of the city or visiting one of its many museums, such as the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum or the Tillman Ward House Museum.

In addition to its rich history, Savannah is also home to a bustling arts scene. The city is filled with galleries, theaters, and music venues, and it hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Savannah Jazz Festival and the Savannah Film Festival.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the past or enjoying the present, Savannah is definitely worth a visit.

7. Miami, Florida

Looking for a sunny place to vacation? Miami, Florida is worth considering! Here are some reasons why: 

First of all, the weather is amazing. The average temperature is around 75 degrees, with very little variation throughout the year. And of course, there’s the beach! Miami Beach is world-famous for its white sand and crystal-clear water. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun.

In addition to the beach, there are plenty of other things to do in Miami. There are museums, art galleries, and impressive architecture. The nightlife is also vibrant, with plenty of clubs and bars to keep you entertained.

And of course, there’s the food! Miami has a diverse culinary scene, with influences from Cuban, Puerto Rican, and other Latin American cuisines. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you’ll be able to find it in Miami.

So if you’re looking for a place to enjoy some sun, sand, and good times, be sure to add Miami to your list!

8. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas is a city with a rich history and plenty to see and do. Founded in 1718, it’s the oldest city in Texas and was once the capital of the Spanish colony of Texas. Today, it’s known for its diverse culture, beautiful architecture, and delicious food.

There are a few must-see attractions in San Antonio. The Alamo, of course, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. The Alamo was the site of a battle during the Texas Revolution, and today it stands as a reminder of the sacrifice made by those who fought for Texas’ independence. Visitors can tour the Alamo complex, which includes the original mission building and the battlefield where the battle took place.

If you’re looking for something a little more light-hearted, be sure to check out the San Antonio River Walk. This pedestrian mall winding along the San Antonio River is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening strolling and people-watching.

And no visit to San Antonio would be complete without sampling some of its famous Tex-Mex cuisine. From enchiladas to fajitas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, San Antonio is a great choice for a vacation destination.

9. Tampa, Florida

Tampa is a unique city located on the west coast of Florida. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Busch Gardens theme park, the Florida Aquarium, and the Lowry Park Zoo.

Tampa also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with clubs and bars dotting the downtown area.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Tampa, from swimming and sunbathing on the city’s beaches to exploring its many museums and art galleries.

There is something for everyone in Tampa, making it an ideal destination for both tourists and locals alike.

10. Key West, Florida

Key West is a small island located in the Florida Keys, and it is known for its clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and abundance of seafood. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, diving, and snorkeling.

There are also numerous restaurants and bars to explore, as well as shops selling souvenirs and local art. One of the most popular tourist attractions is the Key West Aquarium, which houses a variety of fish, sharks, and turtles.

Another must-see landmark is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous writer once lived.

With its tropical atmosphere and laid-back vibe, Key West is definitely worth a visit.

11. Jackson, Mississippi

Jackson, Mississippi is a friendly southern city with a rich history and a lot to offer visitors. Founded in 1821, Jackson was the capital of Mississippi during the Civil War and has been the state capital ever since.

The city is home to a number of museums and historic sites, as well as a lively arts and music scene. Visitors can explore the Mississippi Museum of Art, stroll through the grounds of the Old Capitol Museum, or tour the Governor’s Mansion.

For those interested in history, Jackson is also home to the Smith Robertson Museum, which tells the story of the city’s African American community.

The city is also a great place to enjoy some good old-fashioned southern cooking, with a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Whether you’re looking to explore Mississippi’s past or enjoy its present, Jackson is definitely worth a visit.

12. Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana, and it is known for its rich history, delicious food, and passionate LSU fans.

The city is home to LSU, one of the top universities in the country, and LSU fans are some of the most dedicated in all of the college sports. Tailgating on game days is a must-do activity when visiting Baton Rouge, and no matter where you go in the city, you’re sure to hear the LSU fight song, “Geaux Tigers!”

In addition to LSU, Baton Rouge is also home to many historic sites and museums. The Old State Capitol Building is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and it offers views of the Mississippi River from its Observation Deck.

If you’re looking for a taste of Louisiana culture, be sure to check out one of Baton Rouge’s famous Cajun restaurants. From gumbo to jambalaya, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

With its friendly people and beautiful setting, Baton Rouge is definitely worth a visit.

13. Houston, Texas

Houston, Texas is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the United States. It is home to a diverse population, a thriving arts scene, and a wide array of dining and entertainment options.

Houston is also a great city for shopping, with its many malls, boutiques, and antique stores. And of course, no visit to Houston would be complete without taking in some of its iconic landmarks, like the Space Center Houston and the San Jacinto Monument.

Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled weekend or a longer vacation, Houston has something to offer everyone. So why not add it to your list of must-visit destinations? You won’t be disappointed.

14. Austin, Texas

If you’re looking for a hip and artsy city to visit, Austin, Texas should be at the top of your list. This vibrant city is home to a thriving arts scene, as well as some of the best live music venues in the country.

In addition, Austin is known for its unique food culture, with a wide variety of delicious restaurants to choose from.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the arts or simply enjoying some good food and music, Austin is sure to have something for you. So why not add this wonderful city to your travel plans? You won’t regret it!

15. Saint Augustine, Florida

There are few places in the world that can rival the beauty and history of Saint Augustine, Florida. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles, Saint Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States.

The city’s rich Spanish colonial heritage is evident in its architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 1600s. Saint Augustine is also home to several fascinating museums, including the Lightner Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Victorian art and artifacts.

In addition to its historical significance, Saint Augustine is renowned for its natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy stunning beaches, majestic live oak trees draped with Spanish moss, and pristine waterways. There are also numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and bird watching.

Whether you’re interested in history or nature, Saint Augustine is definitely a place worth visiting. With its unique blend of culture and beauty, it’s easy to see why this charming city is one of Florida’s most popular tourist destinations.

16. Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez, Mississippi is a city with a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Natchez was once a major hub for trade and transportation.

Today, the city is known for its antebellum architecture, its lively music scene, and its tasty food.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Natchez. History buffs will enjoy touring the beautiful antebellum mansions that line the streets of downtown Natchez.

Music lovers can catch a live show at one of the many blues clubs in town. And foodies will be in heaven with the city’s mouth-watering selection of southern cooking.

Whether you’re looking to indulge your senses or learn about America’s past, Natchez is definitely worth a visit.

17. Mobile, AL

Mobile, Alabama is a historic city with a lot to offer visitors. Mobile was founded in 1702 and was the capital of French Louisiana from 1702-1711.

It is also the site of the Battle of Mobile Bay, which was an important victory for the Union during the Civil War. Today, Mobile is a thriving port city with a diverse population.

Visitors to Mobile can enjoy attractions such as the Gulf Coast Exploreum, the Mobile Botanical Gardens, and Bellingrath Gardens and Home.

Mobile is also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Alabama Jubilee and the Mardi Gras celebration. With its rich history and culture, Mobile is a city that is definitely worth a visit.

No matter what your interests are, you can find something to love in the deep south. From city exploration to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in this region of the country.

There’s something about the deep south that just beckons to be explored. Maybe it’s the rich history, the colorful characters, or the delicious food. Whatever the draw, there’s no denying that the deep south has a lot to offer. And yet, so many people never venture below the Mason-Dixon line.

If you’re one of those people, I’m here to encourage you to explore the deep south for yourself. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. From the music and culture of New Orleans to the beauty of the Florida Keys, there’s something for everyone in the deep south.

Deep South Travel Ideas:

• Orlando Florida Travel Guide

Best Vacation Spots on the Mississippi River

• Best Small Towns in the Deep South

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!

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• The Deep South

The Deep South Overview

Sit on the veranda of a grand antebellum mansion. Visit the home of jazz or the Grand Ole Opry. Lie back on a beach. See where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. Or enjoy a plate of shrimp and grits. All these things and more are on the menu when you visit the discover the natural beauty and fascinating culture of the Deep South,

From beautiful national parks such as The Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee or Mammoth Cave in Kentucky and scenic drives along byways such as the Natchez Trace Parkway to the swamps and bayous of Louisiana . America’s Deep South has its own easy rhythm and laid-back vibe, an unhurried approach to life that chimes with its sleepy landscape and fun-loving towns and cities. Cruise along the mighty Mississippi aboard the American Queen. Toast jazz quartets and feast on jambalaya in New Orleans . Discover the heart of country music in Nashville , and the story of Elvis in Memphis .

If it’s history you’re after, this region has witnessed some of the pivotal moments in American history and you’ll find ample opportunities learn about the past from antebellum mansions and fascinating battlefield tours to uncover the secrets of the American Civil War, to the Civil Rights Movement sites and museums. There’s plenty of Civil War battlefields, grand plantation houses and significant Civil Rights sites to visit. Some of the towns and cities have fantastic preserved Historic Districts too, where you can wander the cobblestone streets gazing at magnificent 18th- and 19th-century architecture, and soaking up the atmosphere. Savannah , Charleston and Louisville are all steeped in the past.

Music is in the very soul of the South, and three of its cities come loaded with musical associations. Memphis is the home of the Blues and some legendary recording studios, while famous Beale Street jumps to the sound of live music. New Orleans’ equivalent is the wall-to-wall Jazz and Blues clubs of Bourbon Street. And what’s left to say about Nashville , America’s ‘Music City’, where Country is king?

On a culinary level enjoy finger-lickin’ BBQ and Southern-fried flavours or spice things up with a little Creole or Cajun influence. Time your visit along the Gulf Coast with one of the regions many seafood festivals for fresh and inventive dishes, and take the chance to learn how to recreate some of southern specialities at the New Orleans School of Cooking.

We offer all types of holidays in The Deep South, which can be tailor-made to suit your interests, timeframe and budget. Whether your interest is in driving the scenic byways on an independent self-drive , visiting the music cities on a rail holiday , cruising the Mississippi River on a paddle steamer , or taking in the history on an escorted tour , we can help you experience The Deep South in a way that suits you.

Destination Highlights

Mardi gras in new orleans.

Mardi Gras is a wonderful carnival that takes place in New Orleans each year. The festival can be traced back to medieval Europe. It was brought to America by the French-Canadian explorer Jean Baptiste Le Moyne Sieur de Bienville. He settled near New Orleans in 1699. The first Mardi Gras was celebrated in 1703. Today it is a family-friendly carnival with floats, entertainment and exceptional food. It’s a whole lot of fun and a great way to experience the inimitable Louisiana ambience.

New Orleans French Quarter

The French Quarter is New Orleans’ oldest and most famous neighborhood. Its beautiful buildings date back as far as 300 years, many with wrought iron balconies that extend over the tourist-filled sidewalks below. Visitors flock to the French Quarter for sightseeing, shopping, dining, and entertainment, and the area is packed during the annual Mardis Gras celebrations. The best-known area is Bourbon Street, which is alive year-round with throngs of tourists and live music.

Oak Alley Plantation

The very picture of a historic antebellum home, a tour of Oak Valley takes you through the Big House, a Civil War Encampment exhibit and Slave Quarter Exhibit.

Mammoth Cave National Park

The Mammoth Cave lies in the “Land of 10,000 Sinks” or the Caveland Corridor, an area in southwestern Kentucky approximately 80 miles south of Louisville . This region is strongly marked by karstic features of all kinds. With more than 400 miles of passages surveyed so far, the Mammoth Cave is one of the world’s largest known cave systems and was already known to the original native inhabitants of the region by the 1st millennium BC.

Creole Nature Trail

Consider this path through the marshlands and coastline of Louisiana a drive right into the heart of Cajun culture. You’ll encounter gators, beaches, crabbing, fishermen, wildflowers and plenty of chances to sample the seafood along this scenic path.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Park highlights include a variety of flora and fauna, more than 900 miles of hiking trails, and the 6,643-foot-high Clingmans Dome, with its Observation Tower perched atop the mountain’s summit and offering 360-degree views.

Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley Railroad

Tennessee has had a long love affair with the railroad. Along with the mighty Mississippi, railways were of vital importance for the shipping of wood and cotton during peacetime and military supplies during war. Fortunately, much of this rich heritage has been preserved, from the original terminal and an engine from the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo to heritage trolleys and fancy Pullman cars restored as luxury accommodation. Perhaps the most ambitious project has been the Tennessee Valley Railroad, which offers hour-long steam trips.

Memphis and Nashville

No US state can claim the rich musical tapestry that’s evident everywhere in Tennessee . The centre of the nation’s country music scene, Nashville is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame in the city’s famous Music Row. Then, of course, there’s Memphis , the home of gospel and blues, and famous for Beale Street where the greats like Elvis got his big break.

Elvis Presley’s Graceland estate is the top attraction in Memphis . Tours of the stately home provide a unique glimpse into the King’s life, and nothing has been changed since he passed away there in 1977. Undoubtedly the most famous rock ‘n’ roll residence in the world, Graceland remains a place of pilgrimage to fans from far and wide. Highlights include the family tomb, an impressive collection of cars, aircraft, and memorabilia, and tours of his living quarters, including the music room, TV room, and Jungle Den.

Best Time to Visit The Deep South

The southern states are hot and humid in July and August and tend to be mild between November and April…April, May, June, September and October are generally the best times to visit when the days are warm and nights are cool. For coastal areas, June to September are best avoided as there can be heavy rain and occasional hurricanes. If you’re interested in one of the best things to do in the Deep South , keep in mind that Mardi Gras takes place in February in New Orleans, and therefore it is advisable to book well in advance.

Suggested Itineraries, Escorted Tours and Accommodation in The Deep South

We offer all types of holidays in The Deep South, which can be tailor-made to suit your interests, timeframe and budget. Whether your interest is in driving the scenic byways on an independent self-drive, visiting the music cities on a rail holiday, cruising the Mississippi River on a paddle steamer, or taking in the history on an escorted tour, we can help you experience The Deep South in a way that suits you.

Places to visit in The Deep South

Mississippi.

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Deep South

Blues, BBQ, Bayous & Bourbon – our Deep South Road Trips offer a diverse range of adventure, something for every road tripper.

Home > Find A Road Trip > Deep South

welcome to dixie!

You can explore up to 9 Southern Belle States on a Deep South road trip! Highlights include Charleston, Savannah, New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville and The Great Smoky Mountains.

Explore our Deep South road trips below

Classic Deep South

Visit Atlanta, Great Smoky Mountains NP, Nashville, Memphis, Natchez, New Orleans & Florida Panhandle

Explore This Route

Southern Belle Loop

Visit Atlanta, Great Smoky Mountains NP, Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, Charleston, Hilton Head & Savannah

Blue Ridge Cruiser

Visit Washington DC, Skyline Drive, Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, Great Smoky Mountains NP & Nashville

Atlantic Explorer

Visit Charleston, Savannah, The Golden Isles, St. Augustine, Palm Beach, The Florida Keys & Miami Beach

New Orleans to Miami

Visit New Orleans, The Florida Panhandle, Crystal River, Orlando, Florida Gulf Coast, Everglades NP & Miami Beach

New Orleans to LA

Visit New Orleans, Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Amarillo, Santa Fe, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas & LA

American Music Tour

Visit Chicago, Louisville, Nashville, Natchez Parkway, Muscle Shoals, Memphis, Clarksdale & New Orleans

New York to New Orleans

Visit New York, Shenandoah NP, Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains, Nashville, Memphis & New Orleans

Southern Crossover

Visit Miami, Orlando, New Orleans, Texas, Route 66, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon NP, Las Vegas & LA

Ultimate Deep South

Visit Great Smoky Mountains NP, Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans, Pensacola Beach, Savannah & Charleston

Ultimate East Coast

Visit New York, Philadelphia, Washington, Colonial Parkway, Outer Banks, Charleston, Savannah, Orlando & Miami

Trans America

Visit New York, Washington DC, Nashville, Memphis, Route 66, Grand Canyon NP, Monument Valley, Zion NP, Las Vegas & LA

Grand Tour America

Visit NYC, Washington, BRP, Nashville, New Orleans, Texas, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Yosemite, San Fran, PCH & LA

what our customers say

Now we are back, we thought we would share some feedback about our Deep South experience. Everything went smoothly from flights to hotels to Ian’s ‘things to do and places to eat’. The weather, the people, the music etc all contributed to a wonderful holiday, perhaps our favourite. So very different and well worth doing. Already thinking about another!

Ian & Christine

frequently asked questions

You can find the solutions to your queries right here. Do you still require assistance? Feel free to get in touch!

Not a problem. If you are lucky enough to have extra time to explore more places or add more rest days, then just let us know and we’ll adjust your trip to match your preferred timescale.

We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance for your holiday to cover you against medical expenses, theft and other financial costs. Should you need to cancel before travelling, some insurance policies may pay out for any loss of funds that have been paid to us and which cannot be refunded under our cancellation policy.

Many of our trips have a different end destination than the starting point, so this is not a problem. Please note a fee sometimes applies for one-way rentals between other regions or states, which will be paid to the supplier directly when collecting the vehicle. We’ll endeavour to inform you of this charge within your quote.

No, far from it. We work with a range of properties from 3* to 5*, so we can adapt the trip to match most budgets. We have access to rooms in more than 800 hotels, motels, lodges and B&Bs across North America.

The minimum age to rent a car is 21 in the United States or Canada, although, in addition, any drivers under 25 years of age will generally incur a surcharge.

Our Trusted Partners And Providers

ARTCo customers can be confident that we only work with the very best service providers, such as Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and Alamo. Any payments made to us are fully protected via the government’s ATOL scheme (Flight packages) or Financial Failure Insurance (Non-Flight Packages).

We would love to hear from you.

• 6 Unmissable Places To Visit In The Deep South

16 Jan 6 Unmissable Places To Visit In The Deep South

• Written by CNA
• Categorised Blog , Let Us Inspire You , Travel Tips

The eclectic mix of nationalities that have lived in the Deep South (the states of Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Louisiana) have led to a fascinating melting pot of culture, cuisine and a relaxed way of life.

Add in the unique musical heritage, authentic southern cuisine and  the famous southern hospitality, and you have all the makings of a once-in-a-lifetime holiday..

The ‘Big Peach’ is the birthplace of the American Civil Rights Movement and the best place to learn about the events that have shaped modern America.

Famous singer-songwriters such as Jimi Hendrix, Bobby Brown and Elton John have all called this sophisticated and contemporary city home, and sightseeing highlights include the Carter Presidential Centre, the World of Coca Cola Pavilion and the CNN Centre, home of the largest TV network where you can experience a behind the scenes tour that will give you insider knowledge into the production complexities of producing a great show.

Underground Atlanta sizzles at night. We recommend a visit to Blind Willies for the best in blues, booze and Cajun food – including gumbo, jambalaya and Kentucky’s finest whiskey. You’ll also find some of the best live music in town.

View this post on Instagram Calm before the storm! #blindwillies #nye #newyearseve #blues #party A post shared by Jeff (@mrjeffatl) on Dec 31, 2018 at 4:34pm PST

New Orleans

The birthplace of Jazz and home to the culture and religion of Voodoo!  Here you can explore the French Quarter (the architecture is like strolling into old world Europe), stroll along famous Bourbon Street and spend an afternoon getting lost along the other narrow streets of this historic district. Visit the unique antique shops, numerous jazz clubs, and experience Cajun and Creole cooking at its best!

Royal Street, New Orleans during Mardi Gras.

Make sure you allow time to explore the historic buildings of Jackson Square, including the magnificent St. Louis Cathedral. We also recommend taking some time to browse the many shops, restaurants, cafés, galleries and museums around this area whilst surrounded by local sketch artists, fortune tellers and street performers.

If you get hungry, stop off at Central Grocery and Deli for a famous Muffaletta . This delicious Italian sandwich was born and bred in New Orleans deli. If sweet treats are your thing, enjoy strong chicory coffee and beignets outside the famous Café du Monde on Decatur Street.

Café au lait and beignets at Café du Monde in New Orleans

For those wanting to experience the darker side of the city, there’s also St. Louis Cemetery, the Voodoo Museum and the Museum of Death to enjoy!

… Experience 2 nights in New Orleans …

Continuing the spooky theme, Savannah, Georgia is often reported to be one of the most haunted places in America , alongside New Orleans and Salem. This is definitely a great place to experience eerie presences and local ‘haints’ on your Deep South road trip. Even the visitor centre is built on top of a yellow fever grave site – eek!

View this post on Instagram A little slice of ghostly history in each one of these historic locations. We learned all about the most well known haunts. So many interesting facts! #savannahgeorgia #savannah #hauntedhistory #hauntedplaces #ghosts #ghosttour #ghost #haunted #savannahghosttour #ghostcitytours #ghostcity #georgia #history #visitsavannah #instascary #photography #nightphotography A post shared by Gina Noble (@ginagouldnoble) on Dec 30, 2018 at 10:40pm PST

You might guess that ghost tours are a popular activity here, but there’s also beautiful antebellum architecture and authentic, world-famous Southern cuisine to enjoy. Visit the Olde Pink House to enjoy sumptuous seafood platters, bone-in cowboy rib-eye and incredible mac and cheese.

The nightlife in Savannah is plentiful and diverse. From live jazz to alternative bands, you can always find your groove here. Visitors enjoy piano bars, Broadway-style musicals and even karaoke.

… Enjoy 5 nights in Savannah, St. Mary’s and Jekyll Island in between experiencing the rich musical themes of Atlanta …

It’s time to start belting out ‘ Walking in Memphis ‘ as loud as you can. There is so much to do and see in Memphis, including Graceland , home of Elvis Presley, Beale Street where you’ll find blues clubs and restaurants aplenty, and of course a plethora of music establishments like Sun Studio and Stax Museum of American Soul Music . Memphis is the best place to visit to be immersed in some of the most enduring musical movements in American history.

One stop off you must make is Graceland. Hailed as the most famous rock ‘n’ roll residence in the world, this is the late Elvis Presley’s estate and mansion. The museum here takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through the rock ‘n’ roll legend’s home and gives an insider’s guide into the music, culture and personal side of Elvis.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsfVxSandlc/

If you’re a foodie, take some time to get stuck into local favourites  like soul burgers, slow-smoked meats, biscuits and gravy and  Prozac cupcakes: a moist chocolate cupcake topped with decadent chocolate icing made by Muddy’s Bake Shop .

For a weird and wonderful hotel experience, look no further than a stay at the five-star Peabody Hotel . At  11am each morning you can witness the hilarious march of the ducks. The hotel’s resident ducks come down from their rooftop penthouse and waddle along a red carpet to a fountain in the centre of the lobby, where they remain until 5pm  each day before they return to their penthouse suite. This bizarre spectacle has been happening since 1940!

… Experience the Peabody Hotel on our Deep South USA fly drive …

Home to the Country Music Hall of Fame , Grand Ole Opry and the Johnny Cash Museum , Nashville is the  unrivalled capital of country music and one of the friendliest cities in the USA . 

View this post on Instagram Certainly worth a visit while here in #Nashville Lots of great personalized memorabilia #johnnycashmuseum A post shared by John Young (@dwarfparatri) on Nov 30, 2018 at 4:16pm PST

The city is bursting with honky-tonk bars, where local musicians play for tips, hoping to finally get their big break. Legendary venues like Bluebird Café and Tootsies are great places to experience live music and enjoy a beer or two.

… Explore Nashville on our Deep South and Tennessee fly drive …

Cajun country

Cajun country is classed as the French Lousiana region stretches from west of New Orleans to the Texas border along the Gulf of Mexico and is also known as Acadiana (good luck finding that on any map though!). Major cities include Acadia, Lake Charles and Lafayette.

When people think of Cajun country several things spring to mind: miles of haunting bayous, alligators, swamps and of course lots of really, really good food – think po’boys, gumbo, boudin, shrimp and sugar cane.

Zydeco music is a part of daily life here. You’ll find signs for a fais  do-do (Cajun dance party) everywhere and there’s always a party to attend. With 400 festivals and events throughout the year the people of this region definitely know how to let the good times roll (or as locals would say “ laissez les bons temps rouler “). If you’re excited for Mardi Gras in New Orleans, definitely also consider the music events in Cajun country.

For nature lovers, the moss-draped cypress trees and vast wetlands of this region are home to a number of species of water birds, wildlife and native plants. If you’re looking for excitement, you can even rent a canoe in this area for the chance to spot a ‘gator.

View this post on Instagram Another friendly gator #louisiana #louisianabayou #alligator #bayou A post shared by Jenny (@jennyjjonesphoto) on Nov 19, 2018 at 1:57pm PST

… See the heart of the Louisiana wilderness and the Creole Nature Trail …

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6 unforgettable cities to visit in America’s Deep South

--> BY Megan Arkinstall

Last updated . 23 May 2022

Here, six cities that sum up the Deep South experience. From honky-tonk bars to go-cups, fried chicken to musical legends, the Deep South is a region rich in culture, cuisine and creatives, with a tumultuous history entwined in racial injustice and the Civil Rights Movement.

1. new orleans, louisiana.

The city of New Orleans is an assault on the senses. Nicknamed The Big Easy for its easy-going and joyful way of life, the city is known for its music, parties, exotic Creole culture and flavourful cuisine. Its historic 18 th -century French Quarter is a clash of old and new: a scene of party-people clasping ‘go-cups’ of cocktails, horse-drawn carriages, street bands and ornate French Colonial architecture. The city is the birthplace of jazz and its music halls reverberate with soulful sounds every night, with Rue Bourbon (Bourbon St) taking centre stage. Plan your visit around its busy calendar of events, most notably the annual spring Mardi Gras , a centuries-old festival that paints the city green, yellow and purple as colourful characters parade through the streets on flamboyant floats.

The city’s music halls reverberate with soulful sounds every night.

An absolute must-visit is atmospheric Preservation Hall , which has hosted nightly jazz concerts since 1961.

The Ace Hotel is a welcome and sophisticated haven from the carousing in the French Quarter, a short stroll from here.

The Ace Hotel is a welcome and sophisticated haven.

2. Memphis, Tennessee

Set on the banks of the Mississippi, this lively city has music at its core. Memphis is known as the birthplace of the blues and plays a leading part in the story of rock ’n’ roll. It is home to Graceland , the famous home of Elvis, and Sun Studio , where the King himself, as well as the likes of Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison recorded some of their greatest hits. Music-lovers should wander down the historic neon-lit Beale Street, which is home to three music museums, and also pay a visit to Stax Museum of American Soul Music . While you’re on Beale Street, be sure to feast on classic American barbecue, a staple in these parts.

Visit the music museums on Beale Street. (Image: Stax Museum of American Soul Music)

The powerful National Civil Rights Museum displays more than 250 artefacts, films, oral histories, galleries and interactive media, dating from 17 th -century slavery to the late 20 th century. The museum is built around the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr was assassinated in 1968.

Central Station Memphis by Hilton is housed in a charming 100-year-old building that was formerly the city’s main railway. The hotel boasts a 500-strong collection of vinyl records available for guests to enjoy in its listening bar, a nod to the city’s musical roots.

The Central Station Hotel has elegant interiors.

3. Montgomery and Selma, Alabama

These two cities have a shared history as important landmarks for the Civil Rights Movement. The capital of Alabama, Montgomery is the birthplace of Dr Martin Luther King, home to The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church , of which he was a pastor and where he rose as the leader of the movement. It’s also where Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat for a white man in 1955, triggering the 13-month Bus Boycott protests; The Freedom Rides Museum tells this story and more. Ten years later, the city of Selma marked the starting point for the Selma to Montgomery March in 1965 when hundreds of activists marched 87 kilometres along the highway to Montgomery to campaign for equal voting rights.

The Edmund Pettus Bridge played a historic role in the Selma to Montgomery March.

The city is home to The Legacy Museum , which traces the harrowing history of enslavement and racial injustice, and The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the first memorial dedicated to enslaved black people.

Located downtown, The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa has spacious rooms, a day spa and rooftop pool.

Book a stay in one of the spacious rooms at The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa.

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Oozing southern charm, well-preserved historic architecture and pretty-as-a-picture scenery, Charleston is one of America’s oldest cities. Founded in the 17 th century, the harbour city boasts cobblestoned streets lined with moss-covered oak trees where you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride, pastel-coloured houses that line the waterfront, nicknamed Rainbow Row, lush public gardens and sprawling plantations, antebellum mansions, white-sand beaches and championship golf courses .

The pastel-coloured houses that line the waterfront is known as ‘Rainbow Row’.

Be sure to visit at least one of the gardens or plantations in Charleston, such as the 69-hectare Cypress Gardens or historic Boone Hall Plantation . You may recognise these idyllic locations, as well as the Art Deco American Theater , from the film The Notebook , which was mostly filmed in the city.

Located in the heart of the Old Village, Post House is a cosy 19 th -century inn and tavern that has been beautifully restored.

Post House is a cosy 19th-century inn and tavern.

5. Nashville, Tennessee

Scores of cities in the Deep South have deep musical roots, but Nashville claims its fame as the Music City. Visitors can take their pick from myriad musical experiences such as the Country Music Hall of Fame , The Johnny Cash Museum , a tour of Studio B where the likes of Elvis Presley and Roy Orbison recorded hits, or a visit to one of Nashville’s famous honky-tonks (a bar where you can see free live country music). It’s not just your ears gaining all the pleasure, though: creativity runs through the streets with Nashville’s thriving art scene, which can be appreciated on an Art Crawl , a collaboration of more than 50 galleries throughout the city. While your tastebuds will enjoy the hot fried chicken and bourbon and whiskey.

Be sure to check out a show at legendary Grand Ole Opry , which broadcasts live across the nation and credits itself as the show that made country music famous. Before moving to its new location in 1974, the show was held at the 130-year-old Ryman Auditorium , which still has nightly live performances.

The 130-year-old Ryman Auditorium still has nightly live performances.

Housed in a 115-year-old church, The Russell is a boutique hotel in East Nashville, with a bright and cheery aesthetic and a warm-hearted program that gives a percentage of each stay to charities that help the local homeless.

See the bright and cheery aesthetic of The Russell.

6. Savannah, Georgia

A small city with a big heart, Savannah is a picturesque 18 th -century coastal city with the Savannah River to its north. Its historic centre has 22 park squares, that are awash in green oak trees blanketed in Spanish moss (its most well-known is Chippewa Square , where Forrest Gump waited for the bus); its hand-laid cobblestoned streets are home to a number of well-preserved historic mansions ; and the 300-year-old River Street, lined with old cotton warehouses, is now a bustling waterfront precinct with dining and shopping.

Savannah is most well-known for Chippewa Square.

If you have nerves of steel, you should take a ghost tour around what is known as America’s most haunted city.

Housed in a converted warehouse, The Alida Hotel is a warm and comfortable industrial-style stay on River Street.

The Alida Hotel is housed in a converted warehouse.

Want more travel inspiration? Here are America’s most underrated cities to add to your must-visit list.

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Comments (2)

very interested in the Deep South and Alaska trips

The advertised trip sounds absolutely amazing. I have done some travelling but not in this area.

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On the Road: a Music Lover's Guide to America's Deep South

Tick off a trio of tuned-in cities, from Memphis to Nashville and New Orleans , on this musical road trip through the southern United States .

America’s Deep South is a melting pot of culture that has overflowed across the world. But perhaps no export is more renowned than its sound. Music in the South is more than noise: it’s a sonic history of the diverse people who’ve called these states home. Blast the radio, wind down the windows and cruise to the soundtrack of the Deep South with stops at these rocking destinations, from Graceland to the Country Music Hall of Fame via a few noted hotels in between, bookable on Culture Trip.

Make your way to Memphis

1. moxy memphis downtown.

MOXY is your entrance to downtown Memphis. Check into the Sound Studio Suite on the top floor and get ready to host your own private gig with the two guitars provided. Invite friends up for drinks at your minibar and simply play away. Feeling a little out of tune? Rock your way outside and get back in the groove with concerts at Orpheum Theatre and drinks in the Beale Street District.

2. Legends of Tennessee Music Museum

While Jackson , Tennessee might not ring a bell, its famous exports will strike a chord. The Hard Rock Cafe and House of Blues have their roots here, and the city’s contributions to the early days of rock’n’roll are celebrated at the Legends of Tennessee Music Museum. There you’ll find exhibits on Carl Perkins, Sonny Boy Williamson and Denise LaSalle, to name a few.

3. Graceland

Call in for country music in Nashville

4. urban cowboy nashville.

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5. Muscle Shoals Sound Studio

Step into the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and you can’t help but stand in awe. Rod Stewart, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Paul Simon, the Rolling Stones and countless other legends rocked out in this lauded facility. Your reverence will play on as you visit Muscle Shoals’ other iconic studio: FAME . Here, performers such as Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding belted out their hits. The visit may add an hour to your drive between New Orleans and Nashville, but standing on these hallowed grounds is worth the extra gas.

6. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

A final encore in New Orleans

After a dusty spell on the road, we’ve got the perfect itinerary to ensure you make the most of your time in New Orleans, complete with live jazz concerts, steamboat dinners, cocktail classes and more.

7. Maison de la Luz, New Orleans

Boutique Hotel, Luxury

Maison de la Luz is a boutique stay from the hitmaker Ace Hotels brand in an exceptional location. Halfway between the French Quarter and Garden District, notes of jazz and scents of Creole are never far away. Still, the soaring ceiling and soaking tub in the Grand Suite, and the luminous bathroom and luxury linens in the King Suite are difficult to leave. Complimentary wine and cheese every evening in the Living Room are great primers for a night on the town.

8. Tipitinas

Music Venue

9. Randol's

Restaurant, Seafood

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Deep South USA Holidays

There is no question too small. Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists

Deep South Holidays are a feast for your senses. From the heavenly scent of fried chicken to the notes of bluegrass and country music, America’s Deep South is ready to welcome you in with its classic southern hospitality. Lose yourself in the beat of live music in bars and clubs, indulge in hearty comfort food, and discover rich history during your holidays to America’s Deep South. 

Discover the states of South Carolina, Kentucky , Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia and Alabama, and soak up the Deep South’s infectious culture of good food and unparalleled hospitality. From Jambalaya and gumbo to barbecue ribs and sweet peach cobbler, dine on endless soul food, and uncover some of the country’s most pivotal history. Follow the Civil Rights Trail to unearth the movement’s landmarks, visit working plantations and the beautiful Antebellum South mansions, and ponder the tales of the past as you wander museums that tell the tales of the region’s history. 

The Soundtrack of the Deep South

Renowned for its music, the Deep South has changed the world’s musical landscape with its iconic genres. There’s simply no ignoring the constant call of music here, whether you’re dancing to country music in Nashville’s  honky tonks, losing yourself in the soft notes of jazz in New Orleans, enjoying the soulful melodies of the blues in Memphis , or partying to the beat of Atlanta’s hip hop. Discover each genre’s beginnings and immerse yourself in the rhythms as you visit the Deep South’s cities. From hopping from club to club along Memphis’ Beale Street to exploring Nashville’s famed Grand Ole Opry, your Deep South holiday is the perfect way to uncover the region’s rich musical heritage.

Need inspiration? Explore our wide range of mesmerizing multi centre holidays in USA packages today!

Destination Highlights

Explore Kentucky’s Appalachian Mountains and experience the folk culture and outdoor adventure that awaits here

Laze on Alabama’s delightful sun-drenched beaches

Visit some of the Deep South’s many live music venues, from Bluegrass in Kentucky to the jazz and Cajun clubs in Louisiana

Experience the flamboyance of Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Expert Tips

“There is so much to see and experience in the Deep South. Each state has its own vibe and plenty of hidden gems to discover, so I would recommend combining a few destinations during your holiday. Travel along some of the historic parkways or trails, and stop off when you see something that peaks your interest.”

Our The Deep South destinations

The Great Smoky Mountains

Mississippi

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Sights and Sounds of the Sensational South

Why not make this the year to visit the USA's Deep South, a region full of music, food and history? A Travelsphere escorted tour will ensure you see all the highlights and much more too. Here are our top tips for the perfect holiday:

Get into the rhythm

Enjoy a very special musical experience in Nashville. In addition to visits to Studio B and the Country Music Hall of Fame, a Travelsphere Deep South holiday also includes an exclusive performance by a member of Johnny Cash’s family. Don’t leave Nashville without a visit to one of the renowned music stores. You are sure to find your favourite new and ‘pre-loved’ sounds as you browse through the vinyl.

Step back in time

Embrace the era of rail with an overnight stay at the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel and drink in the magic of the Mississippi on a tour of a historic antebellum mansion. A paddle steamer was once the only way to travel along the waterways of the south. Sip on a refreshing mint julep and drift through the history and romance of times gone by.

Celebrate the 'Big Easy'

Experience the intoxicating atmosphere of New Orleans and the charms of the French Quarter. Why not push the boat out and join the sparkling celebrations for Mardi Gras too. You’ll be in good company on our Travelsphere Special Departure which includes a ticket for the spectacular Mardi Gras parade. Look out for famous faces on the carnival floats and remember to catch as many colourful beads as you can.

Treat your taste buds

The food of the US Southern states is all the rage on the London restaurant scene but nothing beats the genuine flavours of the Deep South kitchen. Taylor Swift’s favourite pancakes can be found in Nashville and the Memphis BBQ restaurants on Beale Street are quite legendary. A steaming Creole gumbo is a Louisiana highlight and no visit to New Orleans would be complete without ‘café au lait’ and a beignet at Café du Monde. Your Travelsphere Holiday Director can recommend all the top spots.

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Travel Advice for the Deep South USA 

Do you need a visa for the deep south.

Most citizens of 36 eligible countries, including the United Kingdom, travelling on national passports with at least 90 days validity from the date of entry into the US, for business or tourism for 90 days or less, are eligible to travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program provided they meet certain conditions. A passport indicating that the bearer is a British Subject, British Dependent Territories Overseas Citizen, British National (Overseas) Citizen or a British Protected Person does not qualify for visa free travel. Bearers of such passports are not eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program and must obtain a visa before they travel to the US. A British passport must quote the holder's nationality as British Citizen and nothing else in order to qualify for visa free travel. 

International travellers who are seeking to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are subject to enhanced security requirements and are required to register in the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). ESTA applies only to those VWP travellers entering the United States by air or sea. Travellers entering by land either from Canada or Mexico are not required to register before travelling. If your ESTA registration is successful, it will be valid for multiple US entries for two years or until the date on which your passport expires, whichever comes first.

All travellers wishing to enter the US under the VWP now need to hold a passport with an integrated chip (an ePassport). 

You won’t qualify for entry to the USA under the VWP and will need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate, if:

You have a Britisth passport that describes your nationality as something other than 'British Citizen'

You've been arrested for certain crimes, even if it didn't result in a criminal conviction

You're a dual national of Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria

You've travelled to Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia or Yemen since March 2011

Certain exemptions apply on a case-by-case basis to those who have travelled to Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia or Yemen since March 2011. For more information about these exemptions, see the website of the US Embassy .

If you’re in any doubt about whether you qualify for the VWP, or if you’re concerned that an existing ESTA may have been cancelled, you should contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.

Click here for further information or to start your application. 

Enhancements to the Visa Waiver Program

Due to changes made in November 2014, those seeking to travel to the United States from countries under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are now required to provide additional data fields of information in the travel application submitted via the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). The new information sought includes additional passport data, contact information and other potential names or aliases. They are taking this step to enhance the security of the Visa Waiver Program and to learn more about travellers from countries who do not require a visa.

Deep South Weather: Best Time to Visit the Deep South

We are often asked when the best time to travel to the Deep South is. Well, there is a generally mild climate year-round, yet with the beauty of four distinct seasons. This should help with your holiday planning:

Spring and autumn are seasons of pleasantly warm days and cool nights.

Summer daytime temperatures are generally in the 80-90°F (27-32°C) range, although they can occasionally reach 100°F (38°C) on very hot days.

Winter daytime temperatures are generally in the 30-40°F (1 to 4°C) range, very occasionally dropping to near zero or below. 

Time Zones in the Deep South 

Which time zone applies to the Deep South? The Deep South USA is divided by two time zones:

East Tennessee are within the Eastern Time Zone (GMT minus 5 hours)

Middle and West Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana are within the Central Time Zone (GMT minus 6 hours). 

Welcome Centres in the Deep South 

All four States of Deep South USA operate welcome centres on interstate and major state highways. The centres are fully staffed and some are open 24 hours a day with plenty of information on Deep South USA attractions and local points of interest. 

Driving in the Deep South 

Deep South USA has an extensive system of roads and highways which are all well numbered and clearly marked with directional signs. Strictly enforced speed limits are signposted and vary from 15mph in school zones to 35mph in built up areas, and 55mph or 70mph on open roads. Driving while under the influence of alcohol is a major offence.

A full valid UK or EU licence is all that is required to drive in the US. An international Driving Permit on its own is not acceptable. 

Deep South Accommodation

There's a wide range of accommodation in Deep South USA, in every price range. All the major hotel chains are represented and there are dozens of smaller hotels and motels throughout each state. Bed and breakfast is becoming a popular option, but this does not necessarily imply low cost as B&B is often in an historic home, usually of extremely high standard, and priced accordingly. Hotel accommodation varies from simple roadside motels to city-centre first class and deluxe properties, some with two-room suites or kitchenette facilities. 

Please do get in touch with our Deep South experts if you have queries or concerns regarding your trip - we are always pleased to hear from you!

Solo South America: What Should You Know About Traveling Alone In This Continent

• South America offers stunning natural wonders, balmy temperatures, and plenty of hiking opportunities, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers.
• Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Uruguay are among the top countries to visit for solo travel in South America, offering a mix of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and friendly backpacking communities.
• While some countries can be trickier to navigate or require language skills, staying informed, enrolling in travel programs, and connecting with fellow travelers can help ensure a safe and rewarding solo trip in South America.

South America is one of the most fantastic continents in the world, with tons of gorgeous natural wonders , balmy temperatures, and plenty of hiking, especially closer to the South Pole.

This continent is one of the best places to retire and an excellent place to explore independently. Solo travelers can make the most of their South American adventure by considering these top tips. Here's what to know about solo travel in South America.

Solo Travel In South America: Which Countries To Visit (And Which To Avoid)

South America is a continent of extremes, from the dizzying height of the Andes to the balmy Caribbean beaches of Northern Colombia. Understanding where to go is one big piece of the puzzle.

One of the largest countries on the continent, Argentina is famous for its epic hiking, wine, and gorgeous cities. Top destinations include Iguazu Falls, Patagonia, and the Perito Moreno Glacier. It's also very safe, and the big cities offer a great backpacking community, so one can feel comfortable solo traveling there.

• Solo Travel: Enthusiastic yes

Patagonia is a great bucket list destination full of stunning nature, unique animal life, and some of the best hiking in the world. Be prepared for changing temperatures, challenging hikes, and the most Instagrammable landscapes on the planet.

This landlocked country has much to offer, including access to the Amazon, salt flats, and beautiful towns right on Lake Titicaca. Don't miss the Salar de Uyuni, the gorgeous heights of La Paz, or the great hiking near Lake Titicaca, especially the Isla del Sol.

Although there's plenty to see, public transportation can be tricky to navigate and one needs Spanish to get around most places.

• Solo Travel: Possibly if one speaks Spanish and doesn't mind navigating transportation concerns alone

The giant country of Brazil has plenty of things to do, especially if one is looking for a party. The fantastic capital of Rio de Janiero is a must-visit if one wants a big-city vibe, and Iguacu Falls and Copacabana are great places, too. Plus, there are plenty of spots to enjoy a remote vacation in Brazil .

• Solo Travel: Yes if one is looking for a fun party, although one will want a little Portuguese to get around

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most spectacular places on the planet, covering a vast 2,300,000 square miles . Visitors can kayak in the Amazon, enjoy outstanding hiking, and see animals one might never spot anywhere else.

Chile's skinny and scenic country stretches all the way toward Antarctica but also encompasses plenty of other climates. Hugging Argentina, it's a bounty of natural wonders. Santiago, Rapa Nui, and The Colchagua Valley are some hot spots to visit. Santiago is a great place to interact with the local backpacking community.

• Solo Travel: Yes, but be careful hiking solo in the mountains as the landscape can get tricky

Related Link: Top 10 Things To Do In Chile's Lake District

Colombia is an excellent place to enjoy some great coffee, bask on the beaches, and enjoy lovely cities with great climates like Medellin.

Top spots include the stunning Tayrona National Park , Cartagena, and Eje Cafetero. There are tons of friendly hostels in Bogota and Medellin and solo travelers will likely find a backpacking community where they can tag along.

• Solo Travel: Yes, this is one of the top places to meet fellow travelers on the continent

Ecuador is the gateway to the Galápagos, and it's a great place to visit if one is looking for a more tropical vibe. See the unique animals of the Galápagos, or visit Quito, a thriving city. There's also the Cotopaxi National Park if one is looking for some excellent hiking.

• Solo Travel: Yes and no: the cities are great for solo traveling, but the major draws, like the Galápagos, are expensive to do alone

Guyana is a smaller country near Colombia with access to the balmy Atlantic Ocean. There's plenty to explore, including the Kanuku Mountains and the Iwokrama Forest. Georgetown, the capital city, is charming, with excellent hospitality and good food.

• Solo Travel: Experienced solo backpackers will have fun, but it's less developed and tricker to get around especially if one doesn't speak Spanish

Beautiful Paraguay is near Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina, with some of the best architecture and history on the continent. The City of Asuncion is one of the top places to visit, and Cerro Corra National Park will give one a good feel for the natural wonders of this country. There are also plenty of ruins to explore.

• Solo Travel: Yes, Paraguay's cities are very safe, especially for female-identifying travelers

Notable for Machu Picchu but also full of great small towns and tons of hiking , Peru is a rich and beautiful country in the Andes. Hikers will want to check out the Sacred Valley and the historic towns of Cuzco and Arequipa. Go a bit further south and enjoy Lake Titicaca, one of the most famous lakes in the world.

• Solo Travel: Absolutely great for solo travel, especially because one can take bus trips around the country and the cities are full of vibrant hostels

The smallest country in South America, Suriname has a big personality and many things to explore. If one is looking for unspoiled nature, this is the spot to go with the Galibi Nature Reserve, Central Suriname Nature Reserve, and Brownsberg Nature Park.

• Solo Travel: Possibly-- as long as one doesn't mind doing things along and can navigate through nature as Suriname is less developed than other countries with a smaller backpacker community

Staying in hostels throughout South America is a great way to save money, meet other people, and learn about hidden gems and cool new places to visit. They're also an excellent place to book group excursions.

This southeastern country sits near Brazil and Argentina, full of lovely historic cities and towns like Cabo Polonio and Colonia Del Sacramento. Uruguay is an excellent bet if one is looking for something a bit off the beaten path.

• Solo Travel: Yes, Uruguay is a safe country and the cities are full of backpackers, hostels, and things to do

Venezuela encompasses the Amazon Rainforest, the stunning Angel Falls, and parts of the Andes. Caracas, the capital, is a lovely city with plenty of history.

• Solo Travel: Generally yes, but at the moment, no because Venezuela is experiencing political insecurity at the moment

Venezuela is very unstable, and the U.S. State Department strongly advises against going there .

Top Safety Advice For Solo Travel In South America

One of the best ways one can protect oneself is by signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which gives travelers updates on any political or dangerous situations that might be happening in the country.

Enrolling in STEP is especially important for solo travelers because one can let the embassy know where you are staying.

While keeping an eye on whether the water is potable is a good idea no matter what, it's especially important if one is hiking or camping alone because getting sick solo could be dangerous.

Colombians have a phrase, "No Dar Papaya," which means not to put oneself in danger. Keeping vigilant about what's happening is the best way to stay safe in South America.

Related Link: 10 Most Beautiful National Parks In Brazil That Should Be On Your Travel Radar

Make The Most Of A Solo Trip Through South America

These tips will help one have the best vacation possible.

• Check which places travelers need a visa before going
• See the best of the country of choice by bus and meet fellow travelers at the same time
• Stay in cities if one wants to meet a community and learn more about the "backpacker trail"
• Join online communities to interact with other travelers on the same path
• Do research ahead of time and enroll in STEP
• Learn a few key Spanish or Portuguese phrases to get by to connect with the local community

Solo travel in South America can be exciting, enriching, and safe, if travelers know what to expect and how to prepare.

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Flying Business to South America Just Got Cheaper With LATAM's Summer Sale — What to Know

Getting to South America just got a little easier.

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LATAM Airlines has launched a new sale with dozens of flight deals to Colombia, Peru, Chile, and beyond this summer — even in business class. 

“Only for a few days!” the airline shared about the promotion on its website . “Fly to South America with the Big Deals and embark on the best adventure!”

The sale fares, which include government taxes and fees, are available on LATAM’s flight deals page for travel throughout the summer. While there isn’t an end date to this promotion, these discounted flights are available for booking on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Travel + Leisure searched through hundreds of deals and found the following economy fares to South America for under $400:

• Boston, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando, and Raleigh-Durham to Bogota, Colombia
• Atlanta, Chicago, Miami, Raleigh-Durham, and Orlando to Medellin, Colombia
• Baltimore, Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. to Quito, Ecuador

Those looking for a lie-flat seat and an elevated experience in business class are in luck with a handful of discounted fares:

• Baltimore, Raleigh-Durham, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C., to Bogotá: Starting at $1,148.90 
• Baltimore, Las Vegas, Miami, New York, Orlando, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.,  to Lima: Starting at $1,818.25
• Miami and Orlando to Santiago: Starting at $1,897.30

LATAM Airlines is based in Santiago, Chile, and was formed after South American carriers LAN Airlines and TAM Airlines merged in 2016. While the combined airline was part of the Oneworld alliance until 2020, it formed a codeshare partnership with Delta Air Lines in 2022 across many North American and South American routes. 

Thanks to the joint venture, travelers flying on LATAM can credit their miles flown to Delta SkyMiles . Besides connecting seamlessly on both networks, eligible passengers can check in extra baggage, enjoy priority boarding, and visit Delta Sky Club lounges when flying on these codeshare routes. 

Related Articles

The Black-Owned Businesses Highlighting Afro-Guyanese In One Of South America’s Smallest Countries

During your visit to Guyana, these Black-owned businesses are perfect for exploring Afro-Guyanese culture.

Mitti Hicks • Jun 3, 2024

No place in South America offers the best of both worlds – beautiful landscapes and cultures – like Guyana. The first thing locals will tell you, jokingly, upon arrival is Guyana is not to be confused with the West African country Ghana.

Guyana is a Caribbean country bordering Venezuela, Suriname, and Brazil. It’s one of the smallest countries in South America, but it has a distinct culture that makes it stand out.

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean, just north of the Equator, Guyana is South America’s English-speaking country. It boasts a beautiful fusion of African, Asian, Caribbean, Indian, Indigenous, and European influences. Afro-Guyanese are one of the largest ethnic groups in Guyana. In 2012, they made up more than 30 percent of the population.

During your visit to Guyana, these Black-owned businesses will be perfect for exploring Afro-Guyanese culture.

Fresh Restaurant

Michelle Howard is the co-owner of Fresh, an Afro-Guyanese restaurant in the Kingston area. She joined her husband and another friend in creating this restaurant concept during the height of the pandemic.

“I was looking for purpose during the pandemic after moving from Canada,”  Howard tells Travel Noire. “Covid really weighed heavily on me mentally. My husband pointed out that he believed I lacked creativity and encouraged me to do more, especially because I was cooking more and taking pride in it.”

The space opened at the end of 2023 as a love letter from Howard and the other owners to Guyana. Once inside, Howard wants people to slow down and take in Guyana’s welcoming spirit and the incredible food. Howard creates dishes she describes as international flavors with local ingredients from scratch.

The artwork in the restaurant comes from the Indigenous community and is available for purchase.

Herdmanston Lodge Hotel

Located in Queenstown, Georgetown, Herdmanston Lodge Hotel is a boutique hotel that prides itself on excellent guest service. It’s one of only a few hotels that has maintained Guyana’s distinctive colonial architecture. Beyond the distinctive and captivating architecture, the hotel has beautiful and spacious gardens.

Guests staying at the Herdmanston are just a seven-minute walk from the National Park, the Seawall overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and the world-renowned Bourda Cricket Ground. Meetings can be held in conference rooms on-site, and there’s an impressive range of local and international breakfast, lunch, and dinner choices.

Georgetown Market and City Tour With Backyard Café Owner Delven Adams

The market tour hosted by Delven Adams is a highlight for experiencing Afro-Guyanese culture. This is a two-part experience with Adams, who owns the award-winning restaurant Backyard Café.

Adams guides travelers through local shops and markets in Georgetown for what feels like a farm-to-table experience . He brings the spices, vegetables, and fruit to life as he walks you down the stalls to pick up the ingredients for the lunch he prepares later in the day. 

The lunch takes place in Adams’ home, right in his backyard – hence the restaurant’s name. Even with the high-profile people who have visited Adams’ backyard to dine, he treats everyone as family and takes pride in inviting people to his home to eat.

Wilderness Explorers

While the tour company isn’t Afro-Guyanese-owned, it has a team of local guides who identify as Afro-Guyanese. The guides take visitors on a breathtaking experience.

One of Wildneress Explorers’ tour highlights is a day trip to Kaieteur Falls. Plummeting 741 feet, Kaieteur Falls is the longest single-drop waterfall in the world. It’s a top attraction in Guyana, providing one of the world’s most impressive sites. Local guides take hikers on an adventurous journey through the park, showing off different views of the falls and the microenvironment it supports.

Lucky visitors can witness rainbows across the gorge and an up-close view of the beautifully colored orange “Cock-of-the-rock” bird and other stunning wildlife.

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Another billionaire plans to visit the Titanic in a submersible to prove it can be done safely, reports say

(Gray News) – Another billionaire is planning a trip to the Titanic wreckage in a submersible after five people were killed in the OceanGate Titan disaster last June.

Billionaire real estate mogul Larry Connor is teaming up with Patrick Lahey, co-founder and president of Triton Submarines , for the next trip to the Titanic, according to multiple outlets.

Lahey has spent years working to make submersibles safe for deep dives and has visited the deepest parts of the ocean.

Lahey told the Wall Street Journal that a few days after the OceanGate tragedy, he got a call from Connor, who was determined to create another expedition to the Titanic that would prove it could be done safely.

Connor, who is worth about $2 billion according to Forbes , is the head of The Connor Group , a luxury apartment building investor. He has also previously visited deep parts of the ocean and outer space.

According to BBC , Connor and Lahey plan to use a two-person submersible made of acrylic that can safely reach 13,000 feet. The Titanic wreckage sits 12,500 feet under the ocean. The OceanGate Titan submersible only had a range of just under 4,300 feet, according to CBS News .

Connor and Lahey have not said when they plan to take their trip to the Titanic.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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How private equity rolled Red Lobster

Angry that your favorite Red Lobster closed down? Wall Street wizardry had a lot to do with it.

Red Lobster was America’s largest casual dining operation, serving 64 million customers a year in almost 600 locations across 44 states and Canada. Its May 19 bankruptcy filing and closing of almost 100 locations across the country has devastated its legion of fans and 36,000 workers. The chain is iconic enough to be featured in a Beyoncé song.

Assigning blame for company failures is tricky. But some analysts say the root of Red Lobster’s woes was not the endless shrimp promotions that some have blamed. Yes, the company lost $11 million from the shrimp escapade, its bankruptcy filing shows, and suffered from inflation and higher labor costs. But a bigger culprit in the company’s problems is a financing technique favored by a powerful force in the financial industry known as private equity.

The technique, colloquially known as asset-stripping, has been a part of retail chain failures such as Sears, Mervyn’s and ShopKo as well as bankruptcies involving hospital and nursing home operations like Steward Healthcare and Manor Care. All had been owned by private equity.

Asset-stripping occurs when an owner or investor in a company sells off some of its assets, taking the benefits for itself and hobbling the company. This practice is favored among some private-equity firms that buy companies, load them with debt to finance the purchases and hope to sell them at a profit in a few years to someone else. A common form of asset-stripping is known as a sale/leaseback and involves selling a company’s real estate; this type of transaction hobbled Red Lobster.

In recent years, private-equity firms have invested heavily in all areas of industry, including retailers, restaurants, media and health care. Some 12 million workers are employed by private equity-backed firms, or 7% of the workforce. Companies bought out and indebted by private equity go bankrupt 10 times more often than companies not purchased by these firms, academic research  shows . In a  report  this month, Moody’s Ratings said leveraged buyouts like those pursued by many private-equity firms drive corporate defaults higher and reduce the amounts investors recover when the companies are restructured.

The sale/leaseback that helped sink Red Lobster involved the July 2014 sale of premium real estate underneath 500 of its stores, which generated $1.5 billion. But that money didn’t go back into Red Lobster; it went instead to the private-equity firm to finance its purchase of the chain, Red Lobster's press release said . That firm was San Francisco-based Golden Gate Capital, with $10 billion in assets.

Golden Gate had paid $2.1 billion to buy Red Lobster in May 2014, so the real estate sale was crucial to the firm’s financing. “Red Lobster is an exceptionally strong brand with an unparalleled market position in seafood casual dining,” Josh Olshansky, managing director at Golden Gate, said at the time, a press release announcing the deal  shows .

The $1.5 billion sale crippled Red Lobster. After the real estate was sold, Red Lobster had to pay rent on stores it had previously owned, significantly increasing its costs. According to the bankruptcy filing, by 2023 its rents totaled $200 million a year or approximately 10% of its revenues.

Asked about the negative impact the sale/leaseback had on Red Lobster, a Golden Gate spokeswoman declined to comment.

The company that bought the properties, American Realty Capital Partners, got a very good deal, the press release announcing the sale/leaseback said. It characterized the Red Lobster stores it had purchased as “irreplaceable locations” and “high-quality real estate located at main intersections in strong markets,” but noted the properties were sold “at below replacement cost.” Under the terms of the sale, Red Lobster would also see regular rent increases of 2% a year, the release noted.

American Realty Capital Partners was acquired by Realty Income in 2021. Realty Income did not respond to a request for comment on the sale/leaseback.

The sale of the Red Lobster stores hurt the company several ways. First, it meant the chain would not benefit from any upside in the commercial real estate market. In addition, the new owner of the real estate did not appear to give Red Lobster good deals on rents. As Red Lobster’s CEO noted in a bankruptcy court filing, “A material portion of the Company’s leases are priced above market rates.”

As is typical in private-equity buyouts, Golden Gate’s purchase of Red Lobster significantly increased the chain’s debt, adding higher interest costs to its burden. In 2017, Moody’s Ratings, an independent ratings agency, downgraded Red Lobster to a negative outlook from stable. Moody’s cited the chain’s “persistently high leverage,” or debt.

“Carrying a lot of debt and not owning your real estate puts companies at a disadvantage,” said Andrew Park, senior policy analyst at  Americans for Financial Reform , a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization advocating for a stable and ethical financial system. “Red Lobster is yet another example of that private-equity playbook of harming restaurants and retailers in the long run.”

In 2020, Golden Gate exited its Red Lobster investment, selling to Thai Union Group, a Bangkok-based company, and an investor group. Thai Union calls itself the “world’s seafood leader” and its brands include Chicken of the Sea tuna products and King Oscar sardines. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Regarding the bankruptcy, a company spokesman provided a statement saying, “Thai Union has a been a supplier to Red Lobster for more than 30 years, and we intend for that relationship to continue. We are confident that a court-supervised process will allow Red Lobster to restructure its financial obligations and realize its long-term potential in a more favorable operating environment.”

Bankruptcies of companies like Red Lobster have a multiplier effect on the overall economy and contribute to a sense of unease among consumers and workers, said Robert  Reich , a former labor secretary under President Bill Clinton.

“One of the reasons people feel so insecure is you’ve got in the background, behind the curtain, a lot of these financial games that ultimately are making the very rich richer, and hurting America’s working and middle class,” Reich said in an interview. “All of the people who were supplying Red Lobster, all of the people who are essentially providing services to Red Lobster, the small businesses in the communities affected by mass layoffs, they are next in line, they are experiencing the ripple effect.”

Red Lobster’s employees are bearing the brunt of the collapse. Austin Hurst is one, a former grill master at a Red Lobster in Arizona. In an interview, he said he learned from a friend his store had closed and has not heard from his manager or any higher-ups at the company. He said he was told his store had been profitable until about 3 months ago.

“About a month before the close, the district manager came in and was like, ‘Yeah, this Red Lobster is looking really bright. And you guys are going to stay open for sure,’” Hurst recalled. 

Hurst said he was offered a job at another Red Lobster location but it requires a longer commute and pays $17 an hour, down from the $19 he was making before. 

Sen. Edward Markey, a Democrat from Massachusetts, where eight hospitals operated by bankrupt Steward Health Care are, recently held hearings on private equity and health care. He has also proposed legislation that would require greater transparency from health care entities owned by private-equity firms, including the disclosure of sale/leaseback arrangements as well as fees collected by the private-equity firm, and dividends paid by the health care entity to the private-equity fund.

“My legislation is quite simple,” Markey said in an interview. “To make sure that these financial shenanigans don’t have a profound impact upon communities across our country, the Department of Health and Human Services has to determine whether or not the sale of the land underneath these hospitals and then having that land rented back to the hospitals isn’t having a negative impact on the provision of health care in that community.”

Private equity is emerging in all parts of our economy, Markey added, but its most profound impact is in health care. “The more private equity gets into the hospital business,” he said, “the more this is just a preview of coming atrocities affecting our health care system.”

Gretchen Morgenson is the senior financial reporter for the NBC News Investigative Unit. A former stockbroker, she won the Pulitzer Prize in 2002 for her "trenchant and incisive" reporting on Wall Street.