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Fun 10 Day Road Trip From Florida to Georgia Itinerary

Published: October 24, 2021

Updated: September 12, 2023

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Ready to plan a road trip from Florida to Georgia? Florida and Georgia are beautiful destinations in the southeastern USA that are packed with things to do and see. In this 10-day east coast Florida to Georgia road trip itinerary, we’ll travel from Miami, Florida to Atlanta, Georgia, stopping along the way to enjoy everything in between!

Florida and Georgia both have a special place in my heart. Many of my family members live in Florida and I grew up in Georgia, so traveling between the two states was a frequent part of my childhood.

There are so many amazing places to discover along the Georgia and Florida coast and a road trip is a perfect way to really get a sense of this region. Let’s get started!

East Coast Road Trip From Florida to Georgia Route (Miami to Atlanta)

This road trip to Georgia from Florida starts in Miami in southern Florida and ends in Atlanta in central Georgia. From Miami, you’ll basically be following 1-95 North along the coast until Savannah, at which point you’ll get on I-16 West which takes you into Atlanta.

Here’s a look at the main stops you’ll make along the way.

• Miami, Florida
• Orlando, Florida
• St. Augustine, Florida
• Jacksonville, Florida
• Savannah, Georgia
• Atlanta, Georgia

Florida Georgia Road Trip Map

Florida To Georgia Road Trip Time

Driving directly, the Miami to Atlanta drive time is about 9 hours. It’s about 660 miles if you take the most direct route following 1-75 North most of the way.

But for this southeastern Georgia and Florida road trip, we’ll be taking a much more beautiful route so that you can see destinations along the coastline.

When you take the scenic route, the total travel time is closer to 12 hours. For this post, I’ve spaced out the best stops and attractions over ten days so that you have time to relax and dig into each destination. That’s the fun of a road trip, after all!

Best Time of Year to Take a Road Trip From Florida to Georgia

The nice thing about traveling around the southern USA is that the weather is usually warm and sunny, even during the winter months. I’ve comfortably worn short sleeves at family Christmas in Florida.

The only time to avoid is the middle of the summer. Summer in this area can get wicked hot and the humidity can make you feel like you’re standing in a swimming pool. Plus the beaches and attractions are more likely to be crowded with vacationers and hotels can be pricey.

Your best bet is to stick to fall, winter, and spring for comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

Day 1: Miami, Florida

Miami is one of the most popular travel destinations in Florida and a must-visit for any Florida Georgia road trip! In this itinerary, we’ve dedicated two full days to Miami so you have time to see the different sides of the city.

Kick-off your first day in Miami by exploring the Wynwood Walls and Little Havana.

The Wynwood Walls are a vibrant outdoor museum with murals and street art from creators around the world. You can explore on your own or take a guided tour with an official ambassador.

Little Havana is one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Miami and it is home to incredible music venues, restaurants, and museums. You can learn about the history of the area with a guide on this highly-rated Little Havana food and culture walking tour .

After spending an amazing afternoon in Wynwood and Little Havana, make your way back to downtown for dinner.

There are thousands of incredible restaurants downtown so it’s hard to go wrong, but the Rusty Pelican Restaurant is always a favorite. It’s located across the water on Virginia Key and offers an outstanding view of downtown Miami.

Go for sunset or a bit earlier to take advantage of happy hour specials from 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm Monday through Thursday. Then when it’s time for dinner, prepare to dive into mountains of fresh seafood, sushi, and salads while watching the twinkling city lights.

Where to stay in Miami: Hotel Indigo Brickell is a boutique hotel offering panoramic city skyline views in an awesome location just a short walk to many top bars, restaurants, and attractions in downtown Miami. If you want to be close to the action on South Beach, check out the Leslie Hotel . This Art Deco hotel dates back to the 1930s and is right on the water. It even has a rooftop pool!

Related Post: 3 Day Miami, Florida Itinerary For The Perfect Long Weekend

Day 2: Miami, Florida and Traveling to Orlando

On your second day in Miami, start your day off with breakfast at B Bistro and Bakery for upscale dining or Blue Collar for classic American favorites.

Once you’re fueled up for the day, take to the seas with a boat cruise of Millionaires Row. You’ll get an awesome view of Miami and you’ll be able to see homes belonging to famous celebrities.

In the afternoon, you’ve got a few options. If you enjoy shopping, downtown Miami is a dream. There’s Aventura , a high-end luxury mall that is more like its own city, Brickell , where you can shop, live, and generally just ogle at the beautiful modern buildings, or Bayside Marketplace , a more casual outdoor shopping area with waterfront views.

If shopping isn’t your thing, head across the bridge to spend some time exploring the island of Miami Beach. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the area from an expert, or if you’re hungry, take a South Beach multi-cultural food tour to sample treats from the area’s top hidden gems.

As the day winds down, it’s time to hit the road for the next stop on our road trip from Florida to Georgia: Orlando. Because we have a full day planned for Orlando tomorrow, it’s best to arrive the night before so you can hit the ground running.

The drive from Miami to Orlando takes about 3.5 hours and covers 230 miles. Take 1-95 N and the Florida Turnpike for the most direct route.

When you arrive in Orlando, make sure to get a good night’s sleep because tomorrow you’ll have a packed day in the happiest place on earth.

Day 3 and 4: Orlando, Florida and Disney World

Located in sunny central Florida, Orlando is most famous for being home to Disney World! There are four different Disney theme parks and three Universal Studios parks, not to mention all the different water parks.

Seeing it all would take weeks, but it’s definitely worth planning some time on your road trip to enjoy the parks.

You can book tickets for Universal Studios Parks and standard tickets for Disney Parks online in advance.

Because there are so many different things to see, I’d recommend doing a day at one of the Disney Parks and a day at one of the Universal Studios Parks.

Want to venture beyond Walt Disney World? The Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral is just a short drive from Orlando and a great place to spend the day.

Where to Stay in Orlando: The Homewood Suites By Hilton Orlando Flamingo Crossings is just a few minutes away from the Disney Parks and includes free breakfast and parking! You can also stay at one of the official Disney Resort Hotels which include free transportation to the parks.

Day 5: St. Augustine, Florida

After two exciting days in Orlando, it’s time to head to another gem in Florida, St. Augustine. St. Augustine was founded in 1565 , making it one of the most historical cities to visit in the United States.

The drive from Orlando to St. Augustine takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. The most direct route is to take I-4 East and I-95 North.

St. Augustine is the perfect place to learn more about the history of America. There’s a trolley system that will take you to all the main attractions and there’s no shortage of interesting museums.

To keep things simple, you can book a combo trolley and museum pass ticket that includes admission to the Old Jail , The Oldest Store Museum , and the St. Augustine History Museum .

After touring the St. Augustine museums, head to the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , a 17th-century fortress with self-guided tours and views of the water.

In a city as old as St. Augustine, there’s bound to be a spooky tale or two. Get in touch with the supernatural on a haunted ghost tour. This 1.5-hour ghost walking tour will take you through the most haunted historic sites in the city with an expert tour guide.

For dinner, you can’t miss the Floridian in the downtown St. Augustine historic district. This restaurant serves local, seasonable southern favorites with indoor and outdoor seating and an impressive cocktail list. If you’re new to southern cuisine, you definitely need to try the fried green tomatoes starter!

Where to stay in St. Augustine: To stay close to the action in downtown St. Augustine, check out the St. George Inn or Villa 1565 . Both hotels include complimentary breakfast and are in a great location for exploring.

Day 6: Driving Sceinic Highway A1A to Jacksonville, Florida

Now that you’re about halfway through your road trip to Georgia from Florida, it’s time to spend the day relaxing at the beach.

Driving from St. Augustine to Jacksonville, Florida only takes about 45 minutes on highway I-95 N but for this trip, I’d recommend, once again, taking the scenic route. Hop on highway A1A and head toward Jacksonville Beach to experience one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the country.

You’ll first pass through the Guana Reserve (there’s a place where you can stop and go to the beach called Guana Reserve Middle Beach) then you’ll pass Mickler Beach.

Up next you’ll see Ponte Vedra Beach then you’ll hit the main Jacksonville hotspots of Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach.

You really can’t go wrong with any of these Jacksonville beaches so slather on some sunscreen, grab a good book, and enjoy!

When you’ve had your beach fix, it’s time to head into downtown Jacksonville. The drive takes about thirty minutes and along the way, you can grab a bite at Dockside Seafood Jacksonville Beach located along the intercoastal waterway.

For the rest of the afternoon, enjoy the amazing Jacksonville art and museum scene. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, you can visit the Riverside Arts Market on the Northbank River Walk.

Art lovers should head to MOCA , the Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Arts, or the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens . Science fans should visit MOSH , the Jacksonville Museum of Science and History. Bookworms? Head to the Chamblin Bookmine and you’ll be in used-book heaven.

For dinner, Black Sheep Five Points serves classic American dishes made from local ingredients. There’s also a rooftop patio area where you can grab a drink and enjoy views of the city.

Where to stay in Jacksonville, Florida: The Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront and the Jacksonville River City Downtown Hotel are both in a great location close to the water and popular downtown attractions.

Day 7: The Georgia Barrier Islands and Savannah

On the morning of day 7, we’ll drive from Jacksonville to Savannah. You’ll follow I-95N and the drive takes about 2 hours straight through, but along the way, you’ll pass some incredible Georgia barrier islands that are worth the detour.

First, you’ll pass adorable Amelia Island . With a charming vacation village, shops, and ample outdoor space thanks to a state park, Amelia Island is a great spot for a relaxing break close to the sea.

Continuing north, you’ll pass Cumberland Island . This protected nature reserve and barrier island is only accessible by ferry (the boat dock is in the town of St. Marys) and it’s known for having wild horses.

Jekyll Island has bike trails around the island for cycling and Driftwood Beach where you can see impressive driftwood sculptures made by mother nature herself.

Next door, St. Simons Island has some of the best laid-back swimming beaches around.

After an afternoon exploring the Georgia barrier islands, also known as the Golden Isles , your last stop of the day is downtown Savannah, Georgia. Stretch your legs by walking around picturesque Forsyth Park and enjoy a southern dinner at Olde Pink House , one of the most beloved Savannah restaurants.

Where to stay in Savannah: For an unforgettable (and spooky) Savannah experience, check out the historic Marshall House . It’s rumored to be haunted, but even if you don’t have a paranormal experience you’ll love the amazing location, elegant design, breakfast, and nightly wine reception.

Related Post: 14 Best Places to Stay in Savannah GA

Day 8: Savannah, Georgia

The first thing to do on your first full day in Savannah? Check out the incredible brunch scene! Southern cities know how to do brunch right, and Savannah will definitely leave you satisfied. Check out the Collins Quarter or the Funky Brunch Cafe downtown.

To see as much of the city as possible, grab a seat on the hop-on-hop-off trolley. Onboard, you can listen to a guided narration and you can get off any 15 different points around the city to explore.

One thing you can’t miss? The candy shops on River Street! River Street is one of the most lively areas in the city and you can find dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops all with a beautiful view of the river.

Make sure to pop into River Street Sweets and Savannah’s Candy Kitchen to try all the fudge, saltwater taffy, and pralines your heart desires.

You can also drive down to Tybee Island, a fantastic beach 20 minutes outside the city and a popular Savannah day trip .

In the evening, explore the spookier side of the city with a history and ghosts walking tour or even a haunted pub crawl !

If you have more time on your Georgia Florida road trip itinerary, Savannah is just a short drive from Charleston , South Carolina. The journey to Charleston is filled with charming small towns and memorable outdoor activities, so if you have the time, it’s definitely worth the trip.

Day 9 and 10: Atlanta, Georgia

On the morning of day 9, travel from Savannah to Atlanta GA. The route takes about four hours but it’s mostly straight highways that are easy to drive.

For your next two days in Atlanta, definitely grab the Atlanta CityPass. I get this any time I have friends visit since it’s such a good deal for seeing Atlanta attractions. You end up saving about 45% compared to if you paid for each ticket outright and it’s more convenient than having to wait in ticketing lines at every attraction.

The Atlanta CityPass includes entry to

• The Georgia Aquarium
• The World of Coca-Cola
• Zoo Atlanta

It also gives you admission to two of the following spots, which you can choose depending on your interests.

• Fernbank Museum of Natural History (great for kids!)
• The College Football Hall of Fame
• The National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The Georgia Aquarium, The World of Coca-Cola, The College Football Hall of Fame, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights are all located within a short walk of one another, and these activities alone will make a very full day.

Atlanta is a big city for sports fans, so depending on when you visit , you can also catch an Atlanta Hawks basketball game, Braves baseball game, or Falcons NFL game at one of the stadiums downtown.

With all this sightseeing, you’ll definitely work up an appetite. Luckily, there’s no shortage of incredible food and restaurants in Atlanta.

For brunch, you can’t miss the Flying Biscuit (there are several locations) or Atlanta Breakfast Club . South City Kitchen in midtown serves awesome southern cuisine and lines are always out the door, for a good reason.

For lunch and dinner, Der Biergarten is a German restaurant with outdoor seating and an amazing beer list that’s one of our family favorites. The Nook on Piedmont Park is another Atlanta classic serving totchos , a combination of tater tots and nachos that are out of this world.

If you’re after fine dining, Bacchanalia offers a fixed four-course dining menu that gets rave reviews across the web.

Where to stay in Atlanta: For a shorter trip to Atlanta, it’s nice to stay downtown near Centennial Olympic Park or in Midtown. The Glenn Hotel and Hotel Midtown Atlanta have marvelous reviews and are close to attractions, restaurants, parks, and public transit.

What to pack for your Florida to Georgia Road Trip

Before you hit the open road, make sure you have these items in your bag!

• Sunscreen: There’s a reason Florida is known as the sunshine state! Make sure to wear sun protection especially if you’re traveling in warmer months since the Florida and Georgia sun is no joke.
• Bug Spray: In warmer months, the coastal areas on this Georgia Florida road trip can get muggy and buggy. Keep bug spray handy to keep the mosquitos at bay. Pro Tip: If you’re prone to mosquito bites, the Bug Bite Thing is a tool designed to remove their venom and make bites heal faster!
• Good Walking Shoes: Several stops on this road trip itinerary are walking-heavy. Make sure you have good tennis shoes or sturdy sandals (I love my Tevas ) to stay comfortable.
• A Light Jacket: Even on a toasty day, things might get chilly after the sun goes down. A light jacket can go a long way on windy beach days and cooler evenings.
• Bathing suit and beach gear: You’ll have plenty of opportunities to visit the beach on this road trip to Georgia from Florida, so make sure to pack a swimsuit, beach towel, and a good book.

I hope you have an amazing time on your road trip to Georgia from Florida . Make sure to save this post so you can reference it along the way and happy travels!

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Hi! I'm Nic. Let's chat about remote work and ways to incorporate more travel into your life. Whether you're here to find an online job or need some tips for planning your next trip, I've got you covered! About me

1 thought on “Fun 10 Day Road Trip From Florida to Georgia Itinerary”

I certainly enjoyed that Post. My grandson had the best time in the College Football Hall of Fame and I was moved to tears in the Center for Civil and Human Rights Museum. Breathtaking and important. Thank you.

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The Perfect USA Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 58 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!

Table of Contents:

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!

elaine cruise says

7th June 2024 at 7:13 pm

Lee & Sue

May I ask did you do your trip in 2024? I am planning my first trip to the deep south in Feb-March 2025 (from UK) and wondered if you had a tips, advice and must see’s ..

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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17 Spectacular Southern USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

From the peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the sandy beaches of the Lowcountry, and from the music of Nashville to the food scene of New Orleans, there is no shortage of wonderful options when looking for the best southern USA road trip itineraries.

I’ve been taking road trips in the south for my entire life, crisscrossing across the southeast USA visiting cities, towns, national parks, beaches, marshes, and beyond.

And yet, even after all that time, there are still plenty of southern road trip routes on my wish list.

In order to give perspectives beyond my own, I asked several other travel bloggers to share their favorite road trips in the south, and the result is a road trip bucket list that would take even the most dedicated road-tripper years to complete!

From weeks-long deep south road trip itineraries to quick weekend getaways, these southeast US road trip ideas cover an enormous variety of landscapes and interests.

No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, we have a southern USA road trip itinerary here for you!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your Southeast USA Road Trip

Deep south usa road trip itinerary ideas, other multi-state southern usa road trip routes, more single-state southeast road trip itineraries.

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

Ideally, take your southern road trip in the spring or fall.

While you can technically take all of these southern USA road trips year-round, the south’s notoriously brutal summer means that it’s best to avoid the months of June, July, and August if you can (unless you plan to spend most of your time on the beach, of course).

Winter, depending on the location, can be gray and rainy, but can also be a joyous time to visit cities, towns, and mountains that see far less tourism in the winter (but don’t underestimate the possibility of snow in the mountains, either: it may be the south, but the Smokies still get snow!).

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

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

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

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

Browse rental cars  for your southern USA road trip today!

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

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

Don’t underestimate the south’s national parks!

The wide-open spaces and epic landscapes of the American West are often the typical images conjured up when imagining the USA’s national parks–but the south has plenty to offer, as well!

In fact, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee is the most-visited national park in the country, and its gorgeous vistas and jaw-dropping waterfalls are well worth exploring.

Other southern national parks to consider adding to your road trip through the south include Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, Everglades National Park in South Florida, and Congaree National Park in South Carolina–just to name a few!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a deep south road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

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

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the US south is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop at just one more beach or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your road trip driving from one spot to the next.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Scenic Byway

From Charles of US Gulf Coast Travel

One of the best scenic coastal drives in the United States is the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway (US Highway 90 / Beach Boulevard) in  Coastal Mississippi , where for 11 glorious miles there is nothing between you and the soft sugar sand and Gulf of Mexico water.

The most awe-inspiring section of the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway is from Henderson Point Beach to the Port of Gulfport Mississippi.

Drive this portion, or this entire road trip, in either direction, but we suggest west to east because you are closer to the water.

Start this road trip after an overnight in Bay St Louis or New Orleans (55 miles away).

In Bay St Louis, fuel up at Mockingbird Cafe (try their pulled pork and grits) or Serious Bakery (superb chicken salad).

Drive across the iconic St. Louis Bay Bridge and your senses will activate and heighten with your first Gulf and sand view.

Stop as often as you want because parking is free!

The coastal drive continues through Gulfport and into Biloxi.

Visit the new Mississippi Aquarium, stroll the Biloxi Beach Boardwalk, and eat at White Pillars or The Blind Tiger.

After crossing the Biloxi Bay Bridge, make time to explore the wonderful small town of Ocean Springs.

Stroll the gorgeous oak-lined Washington Avenue, stop at Walter Anderson Museum of Art, and eat at Vestige.

Highway 90 continues through Pascagoula (Jimmy Buffett’s birthplace) and into Mobile, Alabama, where you can turn around and complete this classic deep south road trip again.

Driving Distance

Bay St Louis to Pascagoula is 50 miles. New Orleans to Pascagoula is 107 miles and it is another 35 miles to Mobile, Alabama.

Recommended Road Trip Length

You can drive this coastal scenic drive in a couple of hours but we suggest allowing three or more days to fully experience the spectacular sugar sand, seafood, sunsets, and small beach towns of Coastal Mississippi.

Alabama Black Belt Road Trip

From Lori of Southerner Says

A road trip through the Black Belt region of Alabama is one of the best southern USA road trips around.

Named for the dark fertile soil of the region, the Alabama Black Belt is made up of twenty-three states across central and south Alabama.

This part of Alabama is the place where significant law-changing history was made, where literary giants were born, and is home to some of the best food that can be found in the United States.

For first-time visitors or someone flying in, there’s no better way to start an Alabama southern road trip than by including the capital –  Montgomery.

Plan on visiting important civil rights sites and the renowned Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice.

Next, drive west approximately fifty miles to Selma, Alabama on Highway 80.

This route is the same route as the important Selma to Montgomery march for voters’ rights that took place in 1965.

See the places that put this small town on the map and made it crucial in the civil rights movement.

Walk the Edmund Pettus Bridge, eat locally caught catfish, and sleep in a hotel that was built in 1837 . 

After saying a farewell to Selma, drive county backroads approximately seventy miles to the literary capital of the south.

As unbelievable as it may seem, Harper Lee – To Kill a Mockingbird and Truman Capote – Breakfast at Tiffany’s were childhood friends in the south.

They both grew up in Monroeville, Alabama – the next stop on this southern road trip. Take a walk around the charming downtown square to spot murals that pay tribute to these well-known books and authors.

From Monroeville, it’s easy to hop on Interstate-65 north to return to Montgomery or take the scenic route for a few more towns and sites on your southern road trip.

Driving Distance 

Recommended road trip length  .

This itinerary would be good for a weekend or long weekend.

Since the Alabama Black Belt is a rather large region there is an abundance of small towns and sites that can be added to a southern road trip.

Visitors could easily spend a week or two in the area.

Mississippi’s Highway 61 (Blues Trail)

From Hannah of HH Lifestyle Travel

A road trip from Memphis to New Orleans down Mississippi’s Highway 61 is rich in music history; and the inevitable river lore that pervades a road trip running parallel to the Mighty Mississippi.

In true road trip style, the road itself is part of the fun of the journey.  

Highway 61 is long and flat and often sits higher than the fields and levees below it.  It is punctuated by quaint southern churches, glimpses of the Mississippi River, and cities rich in blues history. 

Enjoy visiting one of the legendary ‘juke joints’ in  Clarksdale, Mississippi .  

If there is one stop on the road trip to learn about the history of blues music in the area, it’s Clarksdale.  

Visit the Devil’s Crossroads, the Delta Blues Museum, and many more Blues Trail plaques.

Your next stop is Vicksburg.  Brimming with Civil War history, Vicksburg mixes reverence with rejuvenation.  

Pay your respects to meaningful Civil War history, but then enjoy a day spa and quality craft brewpub experience.

Natchez sits on an important bluff on a bend in the Mississippi River with a long history.  

The historic district of Natchez Under-the-Hill has a prime position along the river and was once famous for gambling and river pirates.  

Nowadays it’s a cute place to see the Mighty Mississippi and have lunch in one of the historic buildings.

End your road trip in the vibrant and magnetic city of New Orleans .

Driving Distance  

It takes around 9 hours of non-stop driving time from Memphis to New Orleans, but with time spent in the stops above it would suit a 5–7-day road trip.  

Plan a bit longer if you want to spend time in both Memphis and New Orleans before and after this deep south road trip experience.

Coastal Georgia and South Carolina Road Trip

From Noel of Travel Photo Discovery

One of the fabulous road trips in the southeastern USA travels along the historic coastal corridors of Georgia to South Carolina, finishing in Charleston.

From the Georgia border to Florida, the major artery is Hwy 95, you’ll pass through so many historic and recreational sites along the way to make this a few days or even a longer visit depending on how many places you want to see and experience.

Some of the cool and historic places to visit in Georgia include St. Marys and Cumberland Island, Brunswich and St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island , Tybee Island , and Savannah .

Places to explore around South Carolina’s southern coastline from Savannah include Hilton Head, Beaufort, Edisto Island, and Charleston.

Each of these areas caters to historic sites or recreation getaways that are fun to explore when you have more time to visit each area on this road trip.

Even though you can go directly on Hwy 95 from the Georgia border all the way to South Carolina, it’s the small detour expressways and backcountry roads that will give you a better insight into visiting some of these gems in the region.  

If you only have a few days or longer then the major cities of Savannah and Charleston are memorable cities to prioritize to experience the local lifestyles foods that you’ll enjoy on this southern road trip experience.

Savannah, with its historic squares, fabulous architecture, and historic district that remains intact includes so much to see, do and experience around the historic center of the city.

Charleston on the other hand is more compact and walkable with a tighter historic district to enjoy and explore on your own or with some tour operator sharing the main attractions to see in town.

It’s 107 miles to drive straight from Savannah to Charleston.

If you’re focusing on Savannah and Charleston, 5 days is a comfortable length for this USA southern road trip itinerary.

Add additional days for each city, small town, or island that you’d like to visit.

The Classic Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip Route

From Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

The Blue Ridge Parkway, which stretches 469 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, is such an unimaginably epic USA road trip, that veterans almost envy people who are experiencing it for the first time.

There are a lot of reasons it’s the #1 most visited unit in the US National Park system (with more than 15 million annual visitors), including 200 jaw-dropping BRP overlooks that offer stunning Blue Ridge Mountain vistas and provide access to the region’s most incredible hiking trails, landmarks, mountain towns, and waterfalls.

Designed as part of FDR’s New Deal to protect American wilderness and provide jobs in the wake of the Great Depression, construction of the Blue Ridge Parkway began back in 1935.

Most of the scenic route was completed by 1966, but the popular 8-mile stretch around the iconic Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina (including the engineering marvel known as the Linn Cove Viaduct) wasn’t finished until 1987.

The BRP is the longest linear park in the country, taking travelers through the Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests.

So naturally, there are a lot of exciting things to do along the way. 

At 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell is the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River, with lots of challenging hiking trails and a relatively easy paved path to the observation platform at the summit.

Grandfather Mountain State Park is also home to epic hiking trails (including several with ladders to climb massive boulders), and the neighboring Grandfather Mountain attraction is home to the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, a small zoo featuring native North Carolina animals, and myriad picnic areas. 

Virginia’s Mabry Mill is the most photographed spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and one of the region’s many historical attractions.

There’s very little commercial development along the Parkway, with only a few hotels and resorts (including the historic Switzerland Inn in  Little Switzerland NC ,  and the Peaks of Otter Lodge in Bedford VA).

But part of the fun is exploring some of the charming little mountain towns along the way, including Cherokee, Blowing Rock, and Boone in NC, and Bedford, Lexington, and Waynesboro in VA.

You could drive the entire Blue Ridge Parkway in as little as 15-16 hours if you wanted, but that would totally defeat the purpose.

Some people like to break it up into weekend getaways, basing themselves in a local town.

But you could also spend a week or two driving the entire route, spending nights in lots of little towns along the way.

Chattanooga, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina

From Kim of Traveling Swansons

A Chattanooga, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina southeast road trip takes you on a tour of some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region.

Chattanooga is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains and located along the Tennessee River.

There are many fun things to do here including the Tennessee Aquarium, Lookout Mountain, Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway.

After leaving Chattanooga, your next stop will be Knoxville, Tennessee.

Check out the Sunsphere Tower, which was built for the 1982 World’s Fair.  Walk around Market Square and grab a bite to eat and shop.

After leaving Knoxville, your next stop will be Pigeon Forge. 

Here you find no shortage of attractions including the popular Dollywood. 

Right next to Pigeon Forge, you’ll find the town of Gatlinburg. 

In Gatlinburg, you will also find plenty of attractions including Anakeesta and the Gatlinburg Skybridge. 

Gatlinburg is one of the busiest and most popular gateway towns to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park  has many amazing hiking trails, waterfalls, and views. 

Drive the breathtaking scenic Newfound Gap Road to Cherokee, North Carolina. Jump out along the many turnouts along the way and enjoy the scenery. 

Once you reach Cherokee, explore the Oconaluftee Indian Village and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.  Shop for some authentic Cherokee arts and crafts.

The drive from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina is 191 miles and takes 3 hrs 51 minutes if driving straight through. 

Since there is so much to do on this southern USA road trip, you will want to spend at least 5 days here in order to take in as much as you can along the way.

NOLA to Nashville Southern Road Trip Itinerary

From Agnes of The Van Escape

The southern USA road trip from New Orleans to Nashville is extraordinary.

Why? Nashville and New Orleans are music cities.

New Orleans – the world capital of jazz and Nashville – the capital of American country music – anyone who likes live concerts will appreciate this combination.

And indeed, in both cities, you can listen to music at every turn!

Concerts, music events, live music in almost every restaurant, bar, and even on the streets – Nashville and New Orleans are alive with sounds.

Moreover, there are many great  things to do in Nashville and in New Orleans.

In Nashville visit Jonny Cash Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Grand Ole Opry, reproduction of the Parthenon, and Downtown with famous Broadway Street.

In New Orleans, visit the French Quarter, the Jazz Museum, the Woodoo Museum, the National WWII Museum, explore one of the famous cemeteries, sign up for a swamp tour. Enjoy the best cocktails at the famous Bourbon Street.

Both cities are also known for their excellent cuisine. In New Orleans, you’ll melt at the tastes and smells of Louisiana Creole cuisine, and in Nashville, you’ll delight at the famous juicy BBQ ribs and more.

That’s not all. Both cities are famous for the finest spirits.

New Orleans offers great alcoholic cocktails and in Nashville, you can try classic Tennessee Jack Daniels whiskey , whose distillery is nearby.

The driving time from NOLA to Nashville is about 8 hours, and 4-5 days is perfect for this road trip.

You can cover the distance in one day or split it into two days and spend one night in Birmingham, the largest city in Alabama.

To feel the atmosphere of each city and immerse yourself in its music world, we recommend two nights in New Orleans and two in Nashville.

Virginia Beach, Virginia to Hilton Head, South Carolina

From Alex of Wander With Alex

If you’re planning a road trip from Virginia Beach, VA to Hilton Head, SC, and need a few stops along the way, we’ve got you covered!

While Virginia Beach and Hilton Head are both popular southern beach towns, the experience is very different!

They are both, however, family-friendly vacation destinations with lots of unique things to do and see.

While in Virginia Beach, VA you’ll want to check out the main beach at the Oceanfront.

There are 35 miles of beachfront, an amusement park on Atlantic Ave, and tons of souvenir shops for you to choose from.

If you’re looking for something free to do, check out the Creative ViBE District for murals, sidewalk art, and other creative artwork!

Now that’ll you’ve explored Virginia Beach, it’s time to hit the road!

After being on the road for seven and a half hours, you’ll be nearing Savannah, GA! If you’ve never been to Savannah, consider staying overnight.

You can take a riverboat dinner cruise on the Savannah River or enjoy a low country dinner at one of the best restaurants in Savannah .

And since Hilton Head is only 45-minutes from Savannah, you can stick around for a few hours in the morning and to Tybee Island before heading over to Hilton Head!

Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is a laid-back resort town offering beautiful beaches and tons of golf courses.

Additionally, Hilton Head is incredibly bike-friendly.

Head over to Hilton Head Outfitters, rent bicycles for the whole family, and go exploring!

And if you are a seafood lover, you’ll have tons of waterfront restaurant options!

A road trip from Virginia Beach, VA to  Hilton Head, SC  via Interstate-95 is approximately 589 miles.

If you do not want to stay overnight in Savannah, you can make the trip in seven and a half hours.

However, if you prefer slow travel and wish to explore Savannah, you should consider making this a two-day drive.

Gulf Coast Beach Road Trip from Alabama to Florida

From Ashlee of The Happiness Function

One of the best-kept secrets in the South are the sugar-white sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico from Alabama to the Florida panhandle.

If you have never heard of Dauphin Island, Alabama, it is a must-visit southern destination.

Take the ultimate beach road trip from Dauphin Island, Alabama, to Pensacola, Florida!

Dauphin Island, Alabama, is a beautiful place to visit. The island is home to many different wildlife species, including sea turtles, and the scenery is simply stunning.

If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, Dauphin Island is the perfect spot. Plan to stay at least two days.

From Dauphin Island, take the ferry across Mobile Bay to Fort Morgan, where visitors can continue the road trip to Gulf Shores.

Be sure to visit Gulf State Park and enjoy the incredible beaches from Gulf Shores to Orange Beach! Plan at least two days in Gulf Shores.

Gulf Islands National Seashore in Fort Pickens is a popular tourist destination offering a variety of activities such as catching some sun on beaches, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and exploring the historic fort.

Camp at the  Fort Pickens Campground  for a few days to enjoy all the island offers.

From Gulf Shores, continue east into the Florida panhandle towards Pensacola.

A road trip along the southern coast of Alabama into the Florida panhandle makes for an incredible beach road trip any time of year.

We recommend taking about a week to enjoy this road trip in the US south.

This way, road trippers can enjoy each destination for two days.

Savannah, Georgia to Clearwater, Florida Road Trip

From Terri of FemaleSoloTrek.com

If you’re looking for beautiful beaches and fun in the sun, plan a short southern road trip route from Savannah to Clearwater.

Plan to start at dawn from Savannah on a Saturday so you can arrive by noon in  Clearwater, Florida .

Google Maps or Waze will offer you the choice of traveling down I-95 toward Orlando and then across to Tampa/St. Pete outposts.

Alternatively, you can drive through Jacksonville and then cut across the state via US-301 S and I-75 S.

The estimated time is 6 hours if you don’t hit bad traffic on I-95.

You will also have time to eat fried grouper at Clearwater Beach for lunch, then hit the Clearwater Aquarium for an afternoon adventure.

Dedicate the evening to drinking margaritas and watching the sunset.

You might want to watch the sunset (while sipping a cocktail) at Pier 60 on Saturday night or delay until Sunday because you will be exhausted from your early morning drive.

Clearwater is also a great place to settle while you plan day trips to Tampa, St. Pete, and Sarasota.

While you can easily make the drive in a day, it’s best to set aside a week for this US south road trip as you will lose two days to travel.

Florida’s Gulf Coast deserves a minimum five-day stay so you can experience different beaches.

Southeast USA Road Trip from Washington DC to Florida

From Keri of Bon Voyage With Kids

One of the best road trips in the southeast US is from Washington, DC to  Anna Maria Island, Florida . 

If you want to break it up with overnights and stops, I recommend going from Washington DC to Raleigh, NC on Day 1.  On Day 2, drive from Raleigh, NC to Savannah, GA.  Then on Day 3, drive from Savannah, GA to Anna Maria Island, FL.

Starting in Washington, DC, where there is much to see from the Capitol to the Washington Monument to the Smithsonian Museums, you can begin heading on the road toward Virginia and the Carolinas. 

In Virginia, the historic college town of Williamsburg is well worth a visit. 

In addition to being a beautiful town, home to William and Mary College, it is also where you can step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg and learn a bit about American history. 

From here, head into North Carolina and stop in Raleigh if you plan to spend the night.

Then head into South Carolina, where a drive-through or stop in Charleston is a great thing to do. 

The historic and lavish architecture is well worth a look, and the southern hospitality and walk on the waterfront are worth it even just for a short visit. 

From here, continue into Georgia, where a stop in Savannah is a must. 

If you have a bit of time to spend in this southern city, the hop on hop off trolley, walking tours, and a 90-minute riverboat sightseeing cruise would be worth doing. 

This beautiful and historic city really is a gem on this road trip, so be sure to build in a bit of time, and even book a bed and breakfast for the night.  

Continue on from Georgia into northern Florida, where if you can stop in Jacksonville for a visit to the University of Florida or in St. Augustine for lunch or a walking tour of this beautiful and historic city. 

There is an old town part of St. Augustine well worth visiting, and depending on the time of day, is a great stop for a lunch. Continue on from St. Augustine to Anna Maria Island, Florida.

You may pass through Orlando and Tampa, which if you have time, may want to stop in one of these cities. 

While Orlando is home to many theme parks and activities, you won’t have time on this drive to do many of those unless you build in another day or two to your drive.

Instead, I suggest stopping in Tampa, where you will get to view this fantastic seaside city, where you can enjoy a cruise, walk around Ybor City, or grab a meal at the famous (and delicious) Columbia Restaurant. 

While you are also right at Clearwater Beach, you may want to save that beach visit for Anna Maria Island, just about an hours drive from Tampa, on the Gulf Coast, and renowned for its teal Caribbean-like water, white soft sand, quieter beaches, and home rentals perfect for a beach getaway. 

It’s the perfect destination to such a cultural and historic road trip, and one of the best road trips in the south USA.

Approximately 945 miles (about 14 hours total) one way.

Approximately 945 miles (about 14 hours total) one way, this road trip is at least a two to three-day drive, depending on how much you would like to stop along the way. 

The Outer Banks of North Carolina Road Trip

From Candice of CS Ginger

One of the best Southern USA road trips is driving through the Outer Banks. There are so many fun things to do in the Outer Banks  and its sweeping coastal scenery is gorgeous.

The Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands off the North Carolina coast filled with beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and fun beach towns.

A great historic stop in the Outer Banks is at the Wright Brothers National Memorial.

This is where the Wright brothers completed the first controlled flight in December of 1903.

There are a fun visitor’s center, some historical markers, and a replica of the first plane.

The Outer Banks is also home to the tallest brick lighthouse in the world. You can climb to the top of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. There are 257 steps to the top.

The lighthouse and Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a great place to spend the afternoon. The beaches are beautiful and not crowded.

After spending time at Cape Hatteras, you can take the ferry over to Ocracoke Island.

There is another lighthouse on this smaller island, but it is not open to visitors.

There are, however, beautiful beaches making this island a fun spot to explore.

The distance from the northern town of Corolla through Hatteras, the southern point, is about 95 miles.

If you continue to the ferry to Ocracoke, the mileage is longer.

You can easily fill 4-5 days with fun activities during your Outer Banks road trip, and spend even more time in the area if you want to relax on the beach.

Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park

From Anna of Stuck On The Go

One of the best road trips in the southern US winds through Shenandoah National Park offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

If you drive Skyline Drive straight through it only takes a little under 3 hours but there are so many hikes, overlooks, and small towns to stop and explore. This is the perfect road trip for outdoorsy people.

You can start at the Front Royal Entrance Station and on your first day hike to Compton Peak where you’ll find a gorgeous view as well as unique geological formations that resemble the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland .

In the afternoon, head out to the town of Luray where you can shop in the boutiques along Main Street and visit the famous Luray Caverns.

If you like to camp then stay the night in Mathews Arm Campground, otherwise rent a room at the Skyland Resort inside the park.

For day two you can fit in two hikes – Stony Man and Hawksbill – which both offer stunning mountain views and are 2 of the best hikes in Shenandoah .

Have lunch at Big Meadows and make sure you get the blackberry ice cream pie for dessert!

In the afternoon you can hike Dark Hollow Falls or just head into Elkton or Sperryville.

Visit Sperryville for wineries and Elkton for breweries. Tonight stay at the Lewis Mountain Cabins & Campground.

On the last day of the road trip, hike Doyles River Falls and Blackrock Summit.

Stop for lunch at Blue Mountain Brewery and check out some of the other Waynesboro breweries. Main Street in Waynesboro is also very quaint.

For many people, 3 days is enough to spend in Shenandoah National Park.

However, if you are very outdoorsy and love to hike and explore small towns then you can spend a week in the Shenandoah Valley.

Northwest Arkansas Road Trip Loop

From Lydia of Lost With Lydia

Arkansas is an underrated state with a lot to offer for outdoor adventurers!

The state has beautiful state parks, incredible mountain biking trails, a uniquely historic national park, and much more.

The northwest portion of Arkansas is where you’ll find the most beautiful natural areas along with some fantastic cities. 

This road trip begins in Bentonville, a city known for mountain biking, modern art, and as the Walmart headquarters.

There are miles of mountain biking trails in parks around the city and trails range from beginner to advanced. 

Continue on from Bentonville to Buffalo National River, a beautiful river with epic canyon walls towering above it.

After the National River, enjoy hiking in the Ozark National Forest (the most famous hike is Whitaker Point) and take in the views at Mount Magazine and Mount Nebo. Mount Magazine is the highest point in the state. 

Be sure to not miss the most iconic state park in Arkansas: Petit Jean. This state park is a favorite of many and is home to a 95-foot waterfall, caves, and several unique rock formations. 

Spend some time in Little Rock for great food and interesting history. 

Things to do in Little Rock include visiting the Little Rock Central High School Museum, exploring the vibrant SOMA neighborhood, and hiking at Pinnacle Mountain. 

Finally, end your road trip with a visit to Arkansas’ only national park: Hot Springs.

Hot Springs National Park was a resort destination in the early 1900s and there are a couple of bathhouses still in operation today.

In addition to the spas, you can visit a brewery inside of a bathhouse and enjoy the views from the observation tower. 

A week is the minimum amount of time you’ll want to fully explore the cities and hiking destinations along the way.

Ideally, take 10 days or more to take your time and enjoy this underrated southern USA road trip itinerary.

Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast Road Trip

From Lori of Travlinmad

If you’re looking for an ideal year-round  road trip destination, Florida’s Gulf Coast  offers dreamy beaches, fantastic food, and some of America’s most (in)famous history!

Begin your road trip in Tampa, where you can spend 2 days exploring the city’s Cuban history in Ybor City and enjoy the amazing cuisine before heading south to Sarasota and Siesta Key.

Spend the next day in Sarasota admiring the mid-century architecture and visiting the Ringling Museum.

Shoppers will no doubt stay longer on St. Armand’s Circle, then head to Siesta Key later in the day to take in the new age vibes of the nightly drumming circle on the beach at sunset.

The next day, drive south to Casperson Beach in Venice and rent a “Florida snow shovel” for a few dollars to dig in the sand for prehistoric megalodon shark teeth.

Millions of them wash ashore every day and you just might find a big one to treasure!

Spend the night at Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island, one of Southwest Florida’s most historic towns before heading out the next morning for Fort Myers.

Situated where the Caloosahatchee River meets the Gulf of Mexico, the city of Fort Myers is worth a few days to explore the history and the beautiful beaches on Sanibel and Captiva.

Visit the summer homes of neighbors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, whose mansions are popular tourist attractions today.

The last stop on your road trip is Naples and Marco Island on the southwestern coast. This stunning region is known as the Paradise Coast and it’s easy to see why.

Spend your days on the soft white sand beaches, shopping at the luxury stores and dining downtown, or get out into the Everglades for some adventure.

It is 180 miles from Tampa to Marco Island.

Plan on 7-10 days for this southern road trip route.

There is plenty to see in the major cities of Tampa, Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples, and Marco Island, but you’ll find the real gems in between!

Virginia’s Eastern Shore Drive: Chincoteague to Cape Charles

Recommended by Erin Gifford of Go Hike Virginia

There’s so much to love about  Virginia’s Eastern Shore .

Roll down the windows and breathe in the salt-infused air as you make the 70-mile drive north to south from Chincoteague to Cape Charles.

Get ready to make stops for sandy beaches, ice cream shops, and verdant wetlands just right for a scenic paddle.

Start at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to miles of stroller-friendly hiking and biking trails.

The Chincoteague Lighthouse Trail is a must-visit to ogle the red-and-white striped Assateague Lighthouse.

Take a guided kayak tour or nature cruise across pristine coastal waterways with Assateague Explorer.

Keep your eyes open for wild ponies, as well as native wildlife, like sandhill cranes and eastern mud turtles, that call the wildlife refuge home.

Order up a scoop of Mint Chip or Pony Tracks at Island Creamery.

Spend the night at the Refuge Inn, a mainstay in Chincoteague since 1973. Chincoteague is also home to several camping resorts, including KOA and Jellystone Park.

Continue on to Onancock, a historic waterfront town.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich at Janet’s Café before strolling the hamlet’s tree-lined streets that wow with Victorian-style homes.

Take a tour of Ker Place, a historic Federal-style home.

On the south end of Virginia’s Eastern Shore is Cape Charles, which is home to gentle beaches and vibrantly-colored sunsets.

Spend the day on the beach at Kiptopeke State Park, then order hush puppies at The Shanty.

Cap off the day with a scoop at Brown Dog Ice Cream and settle in at the Sunset Beach Hotel on the Chesapeake Bay.

70  miles.

This trip is best enjoyed over at least 3 days, including one day in Chincoteague, one day in Onancock, and one day in Cape Charles.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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The Perfect 2-Week Southeast USA Road Trip Itinerary

This post contains affiliate links which means that I will make a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking on any of them, at no extra cost to you.

Maybe you can relate, but road trips totally made a comeback for me when COVID hit. I knew that travel could still be done, it just was going to look different. This two-week southern USA road trip that we ended up taking actually was in place of our two-week Hawaii trip we had to postpone.

This ended up being such a special trip full of so many amazing places! That’s why I’m here to spill the PERFECT southeast USA road trip itinerary!

One thing that made this road trip so amazing was that we had such a variety. Each city was so different from the one before it. We did small mountain towns, big cities, little beach towns, and cities that exuded southern charm. I mean really, you won’t get bored with the scenery on this road trip . 

Table of Contents

2-week Southeast USA road trip itinerary

Day 1: st. simons and jekyll island.

If you’re coming from Tampa, St. Simons Island is about a 4 ½ hour drive. It was the perfect distance for a pit stop and a great way to break up the drive . 

St. Simons and Jekyll Islands are both part of the Golden Isles, which make up Georgia’s coast between Jacksonville, Florida and Savannah, Georgia. They’re known for their marshes and beaches, and a must-stop. For a full itinerary for the islands check out this post !

TIP: You can start with whichever island you want to first, but we felt St. Simons was more of a daytime spot, while we wanted to enjoy Driftwood Beach and some of the restaurants on Jekyll Island around sunset. You will drive right past Jekyll Island to go to St. Simons Island, so the choice is up to you in which order you want to visit them!

Day 1- 4: Savannah, Georgia

After you’ve enjoyed your nice little day trip to the two islands, make your way to Savannah, Georgia. Just an hour and a half drive and you’re there and ready to call it a night! Or maybe you’re ready to rage.

We got settled in and went to bed so we could wake up refreshed and get off to an early start in one of my favorite cities.

Serving you southern food and charm, you won’t be able to get over how picturesque and interesting Savannah is. We visited when many restaurants and activities weren’t quite up and running yet, but we still found PLENTY to do.

Check out my guide on how to spend a weekend in Savannah !

Day 4-5: Charleston, South Carolina 

Cobblestone streets, pastel houses, and more of that Southern charm can be expected as you make your way to Charleston. It’s a 3 ½ hour drive from Savannah and a beautiful drive at that. 

I found Charleston to be beautiful, charming, and rich with history, but to be honest it wasn’t our favorite place. We initially planned on spending two days here but decided to move on early.

That being said, Charleston is some people’s favorite city! The beautiful thing about road trips is they are flexible! So, if you prefer, you can always do 2 days here and do fewer days in one of the cities later mentioned!

Check out my Charleston highlights here !

Days 5-7: Charlotte, North Carolina 

Once you’re ready to hit the road from Charleston, you’ll be embarking on a 3-hour drive over to Charlotte. Charlotte reminded me a lot of Tampa. Charlotte has this high-energy cosmopolitan vibe. It’s known as a university town, but also a huge business and financial hub. Think rooftops , food halls, breweries , and speakeasies (see, just like Tampa !).

Day 7-8 Boone, North Carolina

Boone is a stop that we added last minute since we left Charleston early, but wow am I glad we did! This small, charming mountain town will be one of your trip highlights! It sits right atop the beautiful Appalachian Mountains and is 20 minutes from Grandfather Mountain.

I recommend waking up early on day 8 so you can get to Grandfather Mountain when it opens. The swinging bridge at Grandfather Mountain is so epic! The hours vary depending on the season— check here for hours and rates for your visit. They are requiring tickets to be purchased online, so make sure to reserve your time slot.

Day 8-11 Asheville, North Carolina

The drives just keep getting easier and easier— in a short 1 ½ hour drive from Grandfather Mountain, you’ll be in gorgeous Asheville! Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, this gorgeous spot is known for housing the Biltmore Estate.

Along with that, it also has an amazing art scene, fun breweries, and coffee shops, as well as exciting outdoor activities. For my Florida people, Asheville is like our St. Pete !

Here’s a full Asheville guide if you want more!

Day 11-12 Helen, Georgia

Leave Asheville at a decent time so you can make it to Helen by lunch! It’s just a 2 ½ hour drive, so as long as you hit the road by 10 am you should be good. If you can spend an extra day here, I recommend it.

Helen was one of our FAVORITE stops on the trip! You are going to fall in LOVE with this adorable Bavarian town! It will have you convinced you’ve left the country.

For where to stay, what to do, and even what not to do, read my posts on the absolute best things to do in Helen , a full guide to Helen, Georgia attractions , and a list of must-visit waterfalls in Helen !

Day 12-14 Chattanooga, Tennessee

Once you leave Helen, you’re off to your last stop on the road trip! After a 2 ½ hour drive, you’ll be in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Chattanooga isn’t named the scenic city for nothing.

You are going to be surrounded by beautiful natural attractions and amazing hiking trails. But, don’t worry, if you’re a little beat after your previous road trip stops you’ll also be able to find plenty of leisure activities and lots of great food!

Want to know where to stay, eat, and play in Chattanooga? Check out this post for your perfect weekend in Chattanooga !

When is the best time to go on a Southeast USA road trip

If you go between March and May you will be able to get nice weather as well as avoid the crowds. We went in the fall, and I would highly recommend going then. August-September the weather is starting to cool off, and kids are back in school so you can still potentially avoid some of the crowds you may experience if you visit in the summer.

We also did a lot of water activities like the Blue Hole (in Chattanooga), and tubing the Chattahoochee River (in Helen), and I feel like the water and weather temps were perfect for those activities to be enjoyable. 

Helen also has a pretty big Okto berfest annually that they celebrate in September if you want to plan your trip around that!

If you’re looking for another fall road trip suggestion, check out my New England fall road trip itinerary !

Have you ever done a big Southeast USA road trip like this? Let me know in the comments! 

Not sure what to pack up the car with on your 2-week road trip? Check out my ultimate road trip packing list and road trip Amazon suggestions ! And be sure to check out my Insta @guidedbydestiny for more road trip adventures and Florida content!

Destiny Snyder is a passionate travel blogger and content creator based in the Tampa Bay area. Originally from a small town near Toledo, Ohio, Destiny's love for exploring new places began when she moved to Florida in 2017. She enjoys uncovering hidden gems, sharing insider tips on the best things to do, places to eat, and coffee shops to visit in every destination. With her blog Guided by Destiny and niche sites Sunkissed in Tampa and Sunkissed in St. Pete, Destiny aims to make trip planning stress-free and fun for her readers.

11 Comments

What a beautiful road trip! I live in the UK but dream of doing a US road trip one day! This itinerary looks incredible! I especially like the look of Helen, what a beautiful place! I hope I get a chance to visit. Thanks for the great guide!

Helen was such an amazing addition to the road trip! I hope you do get to experience this trip someday 🙂

Such a great guide! I’ve never really thought of doing this drive until now! Asheville has been on my list for a while too!

I’m telling ya, road trips are my new favorite! Love how much you can see in such a short period of time!

This Southeast USA road trip guide 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!

This sounds like an epic road trip! Would love to check out all these great places in the southeast!

I haven’t been on a Southeast road trip since I was a kid. It looks like it’s time to see the Southeast again!

We hit North Carolina last fall in October and loved the Fall foliage. Yet, now that I have seen your post, I need to go back to visit Helen and then plan to spend time in South Carolina. Beautiful pictures.

Yes!! Helen was so amazing!

As someone from NC I highly recommend visiting grandfather mountain! Also check out cherokee, nc and maggie valley, nc! For beaches Wilmington is very popular and the best but I am being bias since i was born there.

Yes! I love Wilmington so much! It was just too far out of the way for us for this trip, definitely going to look into the other spots you mentioned for next time, I appreciate the recs!

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10 Day US Coastal South Road Trip Itinerary

10-day us coastal south road trip itinerary: myrtle beach to st augustine florida.

This epic road trip through the US Coastal South follows U.S. Highway 17, known as the Coastal Highway. This stretch of road runs almost 1,932 kilometers from Florida to Virginia and is the best way to explore the southeastern coast. Along the Coastal South road trip, you will find beaches, boardwalks, lighthouses, oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, cobblestone streets, secret gardens, fountains, hidden alleys, historic homes, pastel row houses, Southern hospitality, and amazing food.

You are excited to begin your road trip through the Coastal South and want to know the best time of year to visit, where to stay, must-see attractions, and where to eat while there. Researching the best things to do on a US Coastal South road trip while working full time is overwhelming and you don’t have hours to spend on the internet. Save time and plan an unforgettable trip full of top activities with this ultimate Coastal South road trip itinerary.

Myrtle Beach to St Augustine Florida Coastal South Road Trip Itinerary Planner

When is the best time to visit the coastal south.

Spring is the best time to visit the US Coastal South. Temperatures are cooler, flowers are in bloom and there are fewer crowds. Autumn is also a good time to plan your trip due to cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. July and August are the hottest months with an incredible amount of humidity. If you travel during the summer be sure to pack lightweight clothing in light colors with your typical beach vacation wardrobe.

What is the Best Way to Travel the Coastal South?

You will need your own transportation to follow this 10-day Coastal South road trip itinerary. Save precious PTO by flying from your home to Myrtle Beach South Carolina and renting a car to continue the journey. Be sure to book the return from Jacksonville Florida.

How Long Do I Need for a Coastal South Road Trip?

The United States Coastal South region borders the Atlantic Ocean in the Southeastern section of the US. It includes the states of Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. This itinerary is a 10-day road trip through coastal South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. If you have two weeks of PTO, extend the road trip into North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

How Expensive is the Coastal South?

According to Budget Your Trip , the average cost for a week-long Coastal South road trip is for 2 people is $1,900 this includes gas, a rental car, lodging, food, drink, and entry fees.

What should I eat in the Coastal South?

A low country broil and Carolina BBQ are not to be missed on this road trip. Also be on the lookout for shrimp and grits, pimento cheese sandwiches, she crab soup, and pralines. See specific recommendations below.

Day-by-Day Guide for a Road Trip to the Coastal South

ROUTE AT A GLANCE: Myrtle Beach – Charleston – Hilton Head – Savannah – Tybee Island – Jacksonville – St Augustine

MILES: 482 miles

HOW MANY DAYS: 10 Days

Day 1 Myrtle Beach South Carolina: Broadway at the Beach

Fly into Myrtle Beach. Pick up the rental car and check into the hotel.

Spend the evening at Broadway at the Beach. Do some shopping, grab dinner, eat fancy ice cream, and ride the Ferris Wheel.

Overnight in Myrtle Beach.

Day 2 Myrtle Beach South Carolina: Beach and  Brookgreen Gardens

Have an unstructured day to unwind from all the pre-trip planning. Use the below options to plan the day:

Relax on the beach, take a walk on the pier, grab lunch on the promenade, and enjoy the amusements.

Bring a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon walking Brookgreen Gardens and exploring the sculptures.

Head to Murrell’s Inlet and stroll the Marsh Walk before enjoying a seafood lunch at Drunken Jacks Restaurant.

Day 3 Charleston South Carolina: Sullivan Island, Boone Hall Plantation, and Cypress Gardens

7 am Grab a coffee and walk the beach at Sullivan’s Island or Isles of Palms.

9 am Arrive at Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, tour the home, enjoy the tractor ride around the property, and listen to the educational talks. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds.

1 pm Arrive at Cypress Gardens. Walk the footpaths and enjoy a guided boat tour through the swamp

5 pm Drive out the Sheem Creek for a low country boil on the water at Red’s Ice House. Take a walk on the boardwalk before returning to the hotel.

Overnight in Charleston.

Day 4 Charleston South Carolina: Folly Beach, Middleton Place, and Magnolia Gardens

7 am Grab a coffee and explore Folly Beach. Stop at the Morris Island Lighthouse before making your way to the famous Angel Oak Tree.

9 am Arrive at Middleton Place, do not miss the Beyond the Fields Enslavement at Middleton Place presentation. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds.

Noon Arrive at Magnolia Gardens. Stroll through the gardens and take the “From Slavery to Freedom” tour.

4 pm Arrive at the Old Slave Mart Museum, you have 1 hour to explore the presentations. Or, browse the City Market stalls for souvenirs.

5 pm Explore the city center. See the famous Pineapple Fountain and waterfront. Take a walk past the Rainbow Row houses and the Battery Mansions. Check out Broad Street and King Street.

7 pm Have a traditional southern dinner at Poogan’s Porch. Alternatively, head to Jim ‘n Nicks BBQ for their cheddar muffins (So Good!).

Read How to Spend Two Days in Charleston South Carolina 

Day 5 Hilton Head South Carolina: Sea Pines Resort and Harbor Town

Sometimes you have heard about a destination so many times you just have to check it out. That’s Hilton Head. Hilton Head is a resort popular for golfing and water sports. Not interested in either of those? Skip this stop and add time elsewhere. Or, make a quick lunch stop at the Salty Dog for fish and hush puppies followed by a shopping stop at Harbor Town.

Overnight in Savannah.

Day 6 Savannah Georgia: Tybee Island, Bonaventure Cemetery, and Forsyth Park

7 am Drive out to Tybee Island. Stop by the Tybee Oaks shops for a cup of coffee and take a walk on the beach.

9 am Photograph the Cockspur Island Lighthouse ad climb the 178 steps to the top of the Tybee Island Light Station.

10 am Stop by the Bonaventure Cemetery on the way back to Savannah and check out the ornate headstones.

11 am Photograph the Gingerbread House on the way to Forsyth Park. Park and spend the afternoon exploring the Victorian District. See the Candler Oak, Magnolia Hall, and the Mercer-Williams House. Walk the pretty Jones Street from Drayton to Tattnall. Eat traditional Southern food at the famous Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room.

2 pm Tour the Andrew Low House Museum. Grab an afternoon treat and relax in Lafayette Square before visiting the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. Photograph the headstone display at Colonial Park Cemetery. Walk through more Victorian homes on the way to Chippewa Square. If time allows, tour the Harper Fowlkes House.

6 pm Splurge on dinner at Olde Pink House.

Day 7 Savannah Georgia: Wormsloe Historic Site, City Market, and River Street

7 am Photograph Rainbow Row before driving to the Thunderbird Inn to take a selfie with the Welcome to Savannah mural before the crowds arrive. Check out the street art in the Historic District before the area gets busy.

9 am Photograph the Majestic Oak Tree on the way to Wormsloe Historic Site, arrive early before the crowds.

11 am Return to Savannah and tour the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters.

1 pm Head to City Market for lunch. Browse for souvenirs and stop to tour the American Prohibition Museum. Be sure to try Byrd’s Famous Cookies.

3 pm Check out the Factors Walk footbridges, the Cluskey Vaults, and Old City Hall. Ride the Savannah Belles Ferry across the river for skyline photos. Grab a cocktail to go and take a walk along River Street. Stop for pralines at River Street Sweets or beignets at Huey’s.

6 pm Photograph the Cotton Exchange Tavern on the way toward Savannah Seafood Shack for dinner. Order the low country boil, fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese, and fried oysters.

Read How to Spend Two Days in Savannah Georgia 

Day 8 Jacksonville Florida: Gardens and Art

7 am Drive to Jacksonville. Make a quick stop to see the St Simons Tree Spirits, take a walk on the beach at Amelia Island, or photograph driftwood beach on the way.

11 am Visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens.

12:30 pm Have lunch at Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop. Wander downtown. Check out the Floridian Theater, view the sculptures at James Weldon Johnson Park, and browse the Museum of Contemporary Art.

4 pm Use the St John’s water taxi service to see the city from the water and jump off at one of the stops for dinner with a view https://www.jaxrivertaxi.com/restaurants.

Overnight in Jacksonville.

Read How to Spend One Day in Jacksonville Florida 

Day 9 St Augustine: St George Street, Pirates, and Flagler College

9 am Visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.

11 am Take a walk down St George Street past the oldest wooden schoolhouse and old city gate. Visit the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum and grab a popsicle at Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops.

1 pm Have lunch at the Columbia Restaurant, order a half Cuban sandwich and 1905 salad.

2:30 pm Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine.

4 pm Tour Flagler College and explore the grounds of Lightner Museum.

6 pm Check out the Bridge of Lions and have dinner at River & Fort Restaurant & Roof Top Lounge.

Read How to Spend Three Days in St Augustine Florida

Day 10 Jacksonville Florida: Beach and Fresh Seafood

7 am Check out of the hotel and drive the A1A down the coast stopping at Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, or the Jacksonville Beach Pier to take a walk on the shore. Grab lunch at Safe Harbor Seafood Market before returning to town.

Drop off the rental car and take the last return flight home.

Bookmark and Pin 10 Day US Coastal South Road Trip Itinerary Travel Guide

Plan Your Trip to the United States Coastal South

South carolina travel guide.

Pick up a South Carolina Travel Guide from Amazon.com to browse on the plane.

Book Your Accommodation Now

Spending the night? Search Booking.com and VRBO in one place to find the perfect property!

Coastal South Attractions and Day Tours

The best attractions sell out! Don’t chance it, get your tickets now and relax when you arrive.

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USA TODAY 10Best

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

May 6, 2021 // By Cathy Salustri

By Cathy Salustri May 6, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flagler Beach

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

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

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

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

St. Augustine

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

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

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

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

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

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

Neptune & Atlantic Beaches

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

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

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

Georgia to South Carolina: St. Simons Island - Savannah

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

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

St. Simons Island

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

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

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

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

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

South Carolina to North Carolina: Bluffton - Charleston

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dinner at FIG , the crown jewel of Charleston dining, completes your stay. Their Lowcountry bourride mixes royal red shrimp and mussels. Your mouth will thank you. Pay attention to the veggies too, because if they have ramps (a wild onion-ish veggie only found in the South), they, like the royal reds, are a bucket list item.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Outer Banks

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

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

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

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

Raleigh-Durham

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

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

Blue Ridge Parkway

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

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

South Carolina to Georgia: Congaree National Park - Lexington

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

Columbia & Congaree National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Georgia to Florida: Columbus

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

Columbus/Phenix City

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

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

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

Back in Florida: Tallahassee - Ocala

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

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

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

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

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

About Cathy Salustri

Cathy Salustri wrote  Backroads of Paradise , a travel narrative about retracing Florida's Depression-era driving tours. She earns her living driving, boating and kayaking through Florida and writing and speaking about her  adventures  (and Florida history and culture.) Follow her adventures on  Facebook,   Instagram  and  Twitter , and don't miss her all-Florida podcast,  The Florida Spectacular , or her  monthly Florida travel newsletter . She and her husband Barry live in Gulfport, Florida, a tiny city on the water. Together they own and publish a hyperlocal weekly newspaper,  The Gabber Newspaper . They share their home with two dogs, three cats and countless Florida geckos.

Read more about Cathy Salustri here.

Connect with Cathy via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

The Best Southeast USA Road Trip: Orlando, Savannah, and Charleston

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A southeast USA road trip is a fantastic way to experience the sights, food, and culture of the South. Some of the best southeast vacation spots are Orlando, Savannah, and Charleston because you get a good mix of city, small town, and coastal areas.

Here’s everything you need to know for this road trip including when to go, what to do, how to get around, and more!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

The Best 5-Day Southeast USA Road Trip Itinerary

• 2 days in Orlando to explore the local food scene and visit an amazing state park. 
• 1 day in Savannah to see the best historic sites and try traditional southern food.
• 2 days in Charleston to learn about the harbor’s history and enjoy some locally-made food and drinks.

Best Time to Do This Southeast USA Road Trip

The Southeast can get hot, especially in Orlando, so try to avoid it during the summer months. The best time to do this southeast road trip is in September and October or in April and May. 

September and October are great times to complete this road trip itinerary because you will get all the leaves changing colors throughout your drive in Georgia and South Carolina. April and May are when flowers begin to bloom, which is an amazing time to visit, especially important for Charleston.

Start Your Southeast USA Road Trip in Orlando

The best city to start this southern USA road trip is Orlando because it has the largest airport. You’ll want to rent a car once landing at Orlando International Airport.

Despite Orlando being a large city, public transportation is limited. Renting a car for your 2 days in Orlando will give you access to all of the things you’ll want to see when you’re there. 

Stop 1 on Your Southeast USA Road Trip: Orlando

When you think of Orlando, Disney is probably the first thing to cross your mind. However, there are many things to do in Orlando besides Disney.

Orlando Day 1:

Orlando science center.

The Orlando Science Center is just a few minutes’ drive from the downtown area. It showcases some special exhibits throughout the year, making it one of the best places to go in Orlando.

The center is focused on bringing environmentally conscious learning to the people of Florida. Many of their exhibits focus on sustainability, recycling, and the complexities of how our food supply affects the environment.

If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the 4roots Café located inside to get locally sourced items and seasonal fruits and vegetables.

The Orlando Science Center is located at 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803, United States. They’re closed on Wednesday and open every other day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $21.

Downtown Orlando Brewery Tour

A brewery tour is one of the best things to do in Orlando for adults. It allows you to sample all the local brews and explore the downtown area all at the same time.

Broken Strings Brewery is a great place to start. They have more than 12 different taps with a mix of in-house producers as well as special guests.

Then, you can walk to Motorworks Brewing where they have 15-barrel tanks all conveniently brewed onsite. The patio at the back is incredible for sipping a beer and enjoying the views of downtown.

Orlando Day 2:

Wekiwa springs.

Use your second day in Orlando to do something outdoors in the “sunshine state.” Florida is home to some of the best natural springs in the country. Wekiwa State Park is one of the best ones and it is less than a 30-minute drive from Orlando.

You can kayak, canoe, or tube down the lazy river. The park also offers hiking down various scenic trails.

When tubing or kayaking down the Wekiwa River, you can also eat at Wekiva Island. They have a bar and a cabana for lounging. Depending on the exact week you’re in Orlando, they may also hold a special food event!

Wekiwa Springs State Park is located at 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712, United States. They’re open from sunrise to sunset. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

Disney Springs

Visiting Disney Springs after spending the day in the sun is a great way to experience Disney without dealing with the huge crowds at the Disney parks.

Disney Springs is one of the top Orlando attractions and has all of the traditional Disney merchandise stores if you want to go shopping. They also recently opened a Polite Brewery which is full of beer options all locally brewed in the Orlando area.

If you’re feeling like something sweet, you can get a freshly-made donut at Everglazed. Spend the evening strolling around window shopping and trying all the locally-made goodies.

Disney Springs is located at 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, United States. They’re open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Where to Eat in Orlando

East end market.

Enjoy some of Orlando’s best culinary adventures in this food hall. Try the ramen at DOMU or the artisan grilled cheeses at La Femme Du Fromage. The best part about East End Market is that there is an option for everyone from vegan chicken to breakfast all day to Asian specialties.

The parking can be pretty limited during peak hours. So, consider trying to beat the dinner or lunch crowd by arriving early. Not many people know this, but there is also a church right down the street that lets East End customers use their lot any day except for Sunday morning!

Briarpatch Restaurant

The Briarpatch Restaurant is located in a cute Orlando suburb called Winter Park. It is situated right on Park Avenue, a street famous for beautiful views and amazing shopping.

Try the spinach and goat cheese omelet or the raspberry and lemon pancakes. They also have fantastic breakfast cocktails and craft coffee options. Make sure to make a reservation ahead of time!

Santiago’s Bodega

There are three different Santiago’s Bodeg a locations in Orlando. They offer traditional Spanish tapas as well as new takes on famous European dishes. Try the bacon-wrapped dates or the lamb rack.

Santiago’s Bodega has happy hour every day from 3 p.m- to 6 p.m. Some of their most popular tapas are only $5 during this time. They also offer the best sparkling sangria in the city.

One of the best things about Santiago’s is the artwork and glass-stained bar cabinets. It showcases the Spanish influences found in central Florida and it’s stunning.

Where to Stay in Orlando

Budget— Orlando Lakefront Tiny Home Community : These rental vacation homes are pocket-friendly and feature a unique way to stay in Orlando! Their tiny homes have panoramic windows, cedar ceilings, and lake access with free use of kayaks and paddleboards.

Mid-Range— Backyard Bungalow : Backyard Bungalow on Airbnb is one of the best places to stay in downtown Orlando. It is within walking distance of many of the fun things to do in Orlando and nearby Thornton Park.

Luxury— Loews Portofino Bay Hotel : If you looking for a luxury option, Loews Portofino is amazing. It is located right next to Universal Orlando and Downtown Orlando. They have an incredible pool and boat access to any of the local sites.

You can also check out my full guide to where to stay in Orlando for more recommendations!

Stop 2 on Your Southeast USA Road Trip: Savannah

Savannah is a beautiful historic city that is very walkable. It has great photo opportunities and is absolutely unique with its cobblestone streets and the winding Savannah River.

How to Get to Savannah

From Orlando, Savannah is about a 4-hour drive. The easiest way to get there is to hop on I-4 E, then I-95 N towards Jacksonville before getting on I-16 E. The drive is pretty easy and can be scenic during certain times of the year.

Savannah Carriage Tours or Savannah Walking Tour

Taking a tour around Savannah in a horse-drawn carriage is a fun way to see the city. It’s one of the most popular Savannah tourist attractions. They also have a guide that will tell you about the unique landmarks and about all of the historic homes you pass.

Alternatively, you can take a Free Savannah Walking Tour if you feel like being active. The walking tours are about 2 hours long and take you through the historic district. The tour is free, but make sure to tip the guide at the end!

Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters

After ending your walking or carriage tour, you can walk to the Owens-Thomas House (in about 15 minutes).

Here you can learn about all the people who worked at the Owens-Thomas House over 200 years ago. While touring the mansion, you will also see how slavery shaped Savannah’s history from the 19 th century.

The tour is honest and retrospective, so get ready to learn some things your history class never taught you.

The Owens-Thomas House is located at 124 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States. They’re open everyday from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Savannah and St. John’s Cathedral

Next, you can walk about 10 minutes to St. John’s Cathedral. Although the artwork and stained glass are magnificent, the sunset view from the top is even better. Try to time your visit here to when the sun is setting so you see this stunning view of the city.

Savannah and St. John’s Cathedral is located at 325 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States. They’re closed Sundays but open every other day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where to Eat in Savannah

The collins quarter.

The Collins Quarter is the place to be for brunch. Try the bananas foster french toast or the swine time Beni. A perfect mix of sweet and savory!

Savannah Seafood Shack

Don’t go to Savannah without getting a low country boil at Savannah Seafood Shack ! It is a famous southern dish and Savannah has some of the best in the region. Get the traditional platter with corn, shrimp, oysters, and crab. Plan to get messy. 

Where to Stay in Savannah

Apartment— George Baldwin House : This Airbnb is an apartment in the heart of the Savannah historic district. It is one of the best places to stay because you are within walking distance of all the important Savannah attractions.

Mid-Range— River Street Inn : This beautiful hotel overlooks the Savannah River. The inn has 4 amazing places to eat on the same property. The best part is it has retained all of its historic charms.

Luxury— The Drayton Hotel: For a luxury option, the Drayton hotel is incredible. Make sure to check out the rooftop area to get a panoramic view of the river.

Need more suggestions for where to stay in Savannah? I have a full guide on the best hotels and vacation rentals.

Stop 3 on Your Southeast USA Road Trip: Charleston

Charleston is an amazing town in South Carolina. You can visit museums, hang out by the harbor, or visit the city market.

How to Get to Charleston

The drive from Savannah to Charleston will only take about two hours. The best route is to take GA-404 towards the US-17 N. You will then merge onto I-95 N and take it to the Charleston exit.

Charleston Day 1:

Patriots point naval and maritime museum.

There are many fun things to do in Charleston, SC, and the famous Maritime Museum is at the top of the list. It’s a great place to learn about the history of Charleston harbor and its impact on making ships for World War II and the Vietnam War.

The Patriots Naval and Maritime Museum is located at 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States, They’re open Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m and every other day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $27.

If you love champagne, Camellias is the place for you. The whole champagne lounge is pink, making it a beautiful place to take photos. They have some of the best cakes in town and an intense cocktail list.

Camellias is located at 404 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States. They’re open Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., and closed on Sundays.

Spiritline Harbor Tour

One of the best things to do in Charleston, SC is to visit the harbor. Booking a harbor tour is a fantastic way to learn about the history of Charleston. It’s also a great way to visit Fort Sumter, Castle Pinkney, and many other sites.

Charleston Day 2:

Charleston city market.

This beautiful market is located right in the heart of Charleston. Almost everything is locally sourced and made in Charleston, so it is a great way to support the economy and local entrepreneurs. You can meet locals, buy some souvenirs, or just spend the day exploring.

Charleston City Market is located at 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States . They’re open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays they open again from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Firefly Distillery

Charleston’s oldest distillery offers more than 25 locally-made spirits. It’s just a few minutes drive from downtown. Firefly Distillery has an amazing patio and a large yard where you can sit in the grass and enjoy a drink.

Firefly Distillery is located at 4201 Spruill Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405, United States. They’re open on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Fridays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and every other day from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Walk the Battery

Exploring the city is one of many fun and free things to do in Charleston SC. You will be able to see the famous sea views for a real treat. You can also see a great view of the White Point Gardens from this fortified seawall.

Here is a map of the battery.

Where to Eat in Charleston

Poogan’s porch.

One of the best places for brunch and mimosas is Poogan’s Porch . Try the sunrise shrimp and grits or the Poogan’s Monte Cristo. Come hungry and leave full!

Santi’s Restaurante Mexicano

Santi’s is the absolute best place to get Mexican food in Charleston. They have the best street tacos and an amazing ambiance. Make sure to order a margarita or another one of their famous cocktails.

Where to Stay in Charleston

House— Charleston Retreat on VRBO: This beautiful home is in a great neighborhood with lovely bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. There is also a stunning front porch and a huge backyard.

Mid-Range— Town & Country Inn and Suites : You can’t beat this great mid-range option including rooms with beautiful views. They also have a great restaurant on the property.

Luxury— Wild Dunes Resort : Wild Dunes Resort has a great mix of private condos and beach house rentals as well as rooms in the hotel as well. This place offers perfect accommodation options for everyone.

For more ideas on where to stay in Charleston, check out this guide !

Why You Should Go Now on a Southeast USA Road Trip

A trip to see Orlando, Savannah, and Charleston is a bucket-list adventure not to be missed. It’s one of the best southeast USA road trips whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or taking your first one.

It’s a great experience to see all the south has to offer and it showcases some of the best places to visit in the southeast.

You Might Also Like

• Local’s Guide to the Top Things to Do in Orlando Besides Disney
• 11 Best Day Trips from Orlando
• Where to Stay in Orlando: Areas and Accommodations
• The Best 11 Things to Do in Savannah
• The Best 9 Things to Do in Charleston
• Where to Stay in Savannah: Best Areas & Accommodation
• Where to Stay in Charleston South Carolina: Best Areas & Accommodations

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This post was contributed by Natalie Castle. Natalie has been traveling mostly solo for the past 6 years internationally and across the United States. She loves seeing new destinations, especially where she can go to the beach or go for a long hike. She discovered her love for travel writing a few years ago and hopes to encourage other people to begin solo traveling through her writing. When she’s not working, you can find her with a glass of red wine planning her next trip.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where can I experience the Deep South?

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

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

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

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

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

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

GIMME MY SOUTHERN STATES ROAD TRIP MAP!

Days 1-2: memphis, tennessee.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: Tupelo, Mississippi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Want to comparison-shop? Use the map below:

Day 4: Birmingham, Alabama

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

Explore that history and more with these Birmingham highlights :

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

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

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

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

Days 5-6: Atlanta, Georgia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Days 7-8: Savannah, Georgia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Want more options? Check out the map below:

Days 9-10: Charleston, South Carolina

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

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

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

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

Use the map below to peruse more options:

Days 11-12: Asheville, North Carolina

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

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

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

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

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

Use the map below for even more options:

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

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

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

Days 13-14: Nashville, Tennessee

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Stops on a Southern Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is it safe to drive through the South? 

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

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

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

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

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

Georgia is such a great example of a turning tide.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love this guide to southern road trips? Pin me!

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

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

Ready to see more?

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

Too much, or just enough?

Agnes Groonwald

Travel With Me 24 X 7

Travel itinerary, Travel guide and Destination reviews

Perfect South Carolina Road Trip Itinerary 7 Days With Map

Are you looking for a South Carolina Road trip itinerary? Read this article on one of the best road trips in South Carolina. This road trip through South Carolina offers diverse experiences, from historic cities to beautiful coastal areas and picturesque countryside.

ALSO READ : 6 Best Scenic Drives In North Carolina With Scenic Stopovers & Hotels

South Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s a detailed 7-day South Carolina road trip itinerary with stopovers, scenic routes, things to do, overnight stays, and valuable tips to help you plan your journey: 

South Carolina Road Trip Map – Road trips in South Carolina

Day 1: Charleston – South Carolina Day Trips

Where To Stay Overnight

• Stay at The Vendue or The Mills House Hotel .

• Start your day  early in Charleston , one of South Carolina’s most charming cities.
• Explore the  historic district,  including Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, and the Charleston City Market .
• Visit the iconic  Boone Hall Plantation  for a glimpse into Southern history. Or Visit the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens for beautiful gardens and wildlife.
• Enjoy Lowcountry cuisine at a local restaurant like  Husk or Poogan’s Porch.
• Take a relaxing stroll along the  historic Battery  and White Point Garden.
• Dine at one of Charleston’s renowned restaurants.

Day 2: Charleston to Myrtle Beach

• Depart Charleston and head  northeast towards Myrtle Beach .
• Myrtle Beach is 2 hr 10 min (97.9 mi) via Hwy 17 N from Charleston, SC.
• Enjoy scenic views along the way, including the  Francis Marion National Forest .

ALSO READ :  11 Best Beaches Near Charleston SC (Things To Do)

• Stop in  Georgetown  for lunch at River Room or Buzz’s Roost.

Late Afternoon:

• Arrive in Myrtle Beach and explore the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade.
• Visit  Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum  or the SkyWheel for some entertainment.

Where to Stay Overnight 

• Stay at Ocean Reef Resort or Marina Inn at Grande Dunes .

Day 3: Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head Island

• Check out of your hotel and start your drive  south to Hilton Head Island .
• The total  commuting time and distance  would be  3 hr 49 min  (221.4 mi) via US-378 W and I-95 S

• Stop in Beaufort  and dine at a charming waterfront restaurant like Plums.
• Explore the Beaufort historic district and take a carriage tour.
• Continue your  drive to Hilton Head Island , known for its beautiful beaches and golf courses.
• Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or renting bikes to explore the island.

Where To Stay In Overnight

• Stay at  The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa   or the  Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort .

Day 4: Hilton Head Island

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• Spend your morning exploring the Coastal Discovery Museum or playing golf.

• Grab lunch at a beachfront restaurant like the Sea Pines Beach Club.
• Visit  Harbour Town in Sea Pines  for shopping, sightseeing, and climbing the iconic lighthouse.
• Explore the  Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge  for nature walks and birdwatching.

Day 5: Hilton Head Island to Columbia

• Check out of your hotel on Hilton Head Island and start your drive  west to Columbia .
• The distance and commuting time from Hilton Head Island to Columbia is  2 hr 31 min  (152.0 mi) via I-95 N and I-26 W.
• Stop in Lexington for lunch.
• Explore the South Carolina State Museum or stroll through Columbia’s beautiful Riverbanks Botanical Garden.

Dinner and Overnight Stay:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the  Vista district .
• Stay at the Hilton Columbia Center or Wyndham Garden .

Day 6: Columbia to Greenville

• Depart Columbia and head northwest towards Greenville.
• The distance and commuting time from Columbia to Greenville is  1 hr 35 min  (103.5 mi) via I-26 W and I-385 N.
• Stop for  lunch in Newberry  at a local spot like Figaro the Dining Room.
• Checkin to  Westin Poinsett  or the  AC Hotel Greenville .

Late Afternoon & Evening:

• Explore the  charming downtown of Greenville , including  Falls Park on the Reedy River .
• Visit the Greenville Zoo or take a walk on the Liberty Bridge.

Dinner 

• Dine at one of the excellent restaurants in downtown Greenville.

Day 7: Greenville to Charleston (via Scenic Route)

• Check out your Greenville hotel and head back towards Charleston via a scenic route.
• The total distance and commuting time from Greenville to Charleston is  3 hr 10 min  (212.9 mi) via I-26 E.

• Stop for lunch at a roadside café along the way.
• Enjoy the scenic drive through the  rolling hills of the Upstate region.
• If time permits, visit a winery or orchard along the way.
• Arrive back in Charleston and enjoy a final dinner at one of your favorite restaurants from Day 1.

👉🏼7 Best South Carolina Islands + Route, Things To Do, Beach Resorts, Pet-Friendly & Parking Tips

Useful Tip – South Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

• Plan your accommodations, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Check the opening hours and availability of attractions and restaurants, as they may vary.
• Carry a paper map or use a GPS navigation system, as some areas may have limited cell coverage.
• Pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Be prepared for variable weather, as South Carolina can be hot and humid in the summer and cool in the winter.

FAQs – Day Trips In South Carolina

• What’s the best time of year for a road trip in South Carolina?

South Carolina is great for road trips year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are mild.

• Do I need any special permits or passes for national parks or attractions in South Carolina?

Most attractions and parks in South Carolina do not require special permits or passes. However, some state parks may charge an entrance fee.

3. How should I prepare for the weather in South Carolina?

• Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Summers are hot, so bring sunscreen and light clothing, while winters can be cool, so pack layers.
• Are there any toll roads in South Carolina?

South Carolina does have some toll roads, including the Southern Connector in Greenville and the Cross Island Parkway in Hilton Head Island. Make sure you have cash or a compatible electronic toll payment system if you use these roads.

• What must-visit attractions for families on a South Carolina road trip?

Family-friendly attractions include Myrtle Beach, the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, and the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry in Charleston.

• Are there any scenic routes I should consider for my road trip?

Yes, consider driving the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Upstate region for stunning mountain views or the scenic Lowcountry Highway  (Route 17)  along the coast for coastal beauty.

• Can I find vegetarian or vegan options at restaurants in South Carolina?

While South Carolina is known for its seafood and barbecue, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in larger cities like Charleston and Greenville.

• How do I book accommodations in advance for my road trip?

It’s a good idea to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. 

• Are there any safety tips for driving in South Carolina?

Follow standard safety practices such as obeying speed limits, wearing seatbelts, and avoiding distractions while driving. Be mindful of wildlife, especially in rural areas, and watch out for occasional severe weather, like summer thunderstorms.

• Can I bring my pet on the road trip?

Many hotels and campgrounds in South Carolina are pet-friendly, but checking their pet policies and making reservations is essential. Ensure your pet is safely restrained while driving.

• Is there a South Carolina road trip map or app I can use for navigation?

Several GPS navigation apps, like Google Maps and Waze, work well for navigating South Carolina. You can also find detailed road trip maps and resources from the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism.

• What’s the best way to explore the historical sites in South Carolina?

To explore historical sites, start with Charleston’s historic district, but also consider visiting plantation homes, forts, and museums throughout the state. Join guided tours for a deeper understanding of South Carolina’s rich history.

• How can I find local events or festivals during my road trip?

Visit the official tourism websites of South Carolina or local event listing platforms to find information about upcoming events, festivals, and cultural activities during your visit.

Remember to plan your South Carolina road trip itinerary carefully, stay informed about local conditions, and have a great adventure exploring this beautiful state!

This South Carolina road trip itinerary or beautiful day trips in South Carolina offers diverse experiences, from historic cities to coastal beauty and scenic drives through the Palmetto State. Enjoy your journey!

Read More on Charleston Travel Planning – Sc Day Trip

• Thanksgivng In Charleston SC – Things To Do + Activities
• Best Things To Do In Charleston With Kids
• Charleston vs Savannah – Which Best City To Visit In 2023
• 29 Interesting Facts About Charleston Sc
• Best Things To Do In Charleston SC This Weekend (Complete Charleston Travel Guide)
• 9 Best Day Trips from Charleston SC Weekend Road Trips (Within 2 Hours)
• Plan A Trip To Charleston SC – Epic Charleston Travel Guide
• 24 Hours In Charleston Tour – The Best Itinerary

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Beautiful Georgia Coast Road Trip: Best Stops from Savannah to Jekyll Island

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: January 20, 2022  - Last updated: January 30, 2024

Have you ever done a Georgia Coast road trip? No?! Well now’s your chance and you will love it! A road trip along the Georgia coast is rather surprising, as it’s not a big long beach like doing a California Coast road trip or a Florida Gulf Coast trip . But it’s awesome!

For us, this is a regular trip that we do several times each year and find new stops with each jaunt. The Georgia Coast road trip is good in any season, so pack the car, get some snacks and have an adventure! If you have any questions or need more tips, please leave a comment or send us a note !

A lot of people ask us about living in the South and how to get the best of both beaches and history. Doing a road trip from Florida to Georgia is the perfect way to get the full experience. A road trip from Atlanta is an option too, but that’s a bit more complicated. Here’s the scoop though for having an incredible coastal Georgia road trip including Tybee Island, Savannah and the Golden Isles.

Get my book, The Road Trip Survival Guide , to help create a memorable vacation!

Getting to the Georgia Coast

If you’re not familiar with the map of the East Coast, you may think that Atlanta is super close to the beach, but it’s not. Savannah actually isn’t even a beachfront city, but it’s pretty close. So, how do you get to the beaches of Georgia? While heading to the coast is one of the best road trips from Atlanta, it’s not the best way to get to Savannah.

This Georgia Coast road trip map shows the route, drive time from Atlanta to Savannah, and road trip stops from Jacksonville northward.

Flying to Savannah, Georgia

This is the easiest way to get to the Georgia Coast. Fly into Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) direct from more than 20 airports in the USA. If you’re coming from Denver , Dallas, Chicago or New York , you’ll have lots of options. Also, there are direct flights from Minneapolis (MSP) which means that you can get to Savannah from nearly anywhere.

Flying to Jacksonville, Florida for a Georgia Coast Road Trip

Flying into Jacksonville, FL (JAX) is also an option. Located less than a half hour from the Florida-Georgia border, flying into JAX is another great way to start your Georgia Coast road trip. Add a few days to explore Jacksonville , Jacksonville Beach , Saint Augustine or the Florida springs and you have a truly winning vacation plan.

Scenic Route to Savannah, Georgia

The Atlanta to Savannah drive is a fun one. The distance between ATL and Savannah is about 270 miles , so it’s not just a quick jaunt. You can go two different ways: the scenic route through North Georgia or the main freeway. 

I love doing the Georgia waterfalls road trip and doing the many hikes in gold country, but if your goal is having a Georgia beach vacation, you may want to skip it.

After you land, drive from Atlanta to Savannah along I-16, making a stop in Macon, GA. It’s about a four hour drive. You could also go via I-20 through Augusta, GA, which would give you lots of interesting Civil War sites to visit.

Ultimately though, the fastest way to start your Georgia Coast road trip is by flying into Savannah or Jacksonville, FL. Unless you have ridiculous stopovers to those airports, you’ll nearly always save time and money by flying into SAV or JAX. You can also start this road trip after driving the coast from the north stopping at beaches in North Carolina and into South Carolina before coming to Savannah.

When is the best time to do a Georgia Coast Road Trip?

Of course summer is the best time to do a road trip on the Georgia Coast, but fall is really perfect. Due to the warm climate, visiting Coastal Georgia in fall means that you’ll have pretty nice weather still with pleasantly warm beaches.

Mid to late spring is also really great for any Georgia road trip. For driving down the coast, you’ll be getting the start of the sunshiny weather and still will be missing the summer crowds. The water doesn’t warm up much until around May, so doing a spring trip might be a bit chilly if swimming in the ocean is one of your goals.

Note: Coastal Georgia is subject to the Atlantic hurricane season, but it’s rare that a named storm actually makes landfall. Summers do bring tropical rains though, but it’s usually short lived.

Winter on the Georgia coast is wet. It’s not even slightly crowded, except for people visiting Savannah over the holidays. Expect rain and wind December through March. We’ve been in February, April, July, October and November and April – October have definitely been the best weather-wise.

Georgia Coast Road Trip Stops and Sights

Unlike driving Florida A1A all along the coast, doing a Georgia Coast road trip is NOT along the beach. Because Georgia’s barrier islands are so undeveloped and protected, there isn’t a coastal road.

The route to Savannah (or from) is mainly along I-95 which leads all the way to Miami. You can drive on state highway 17 for a portion of the road trip, but even then it crosses 95 or joins it. If you drive the 17 you’ll be able to easily make stops at road side points of interest, and you’ll have a chance for easy wildlife watching.

Jump to our 6 Day Georgia Coast Itinerary

Fun Things to Do in Savannah

Savannah really is a highlight, if not THE highlight of a Georgia Coast road trip. Between the history and the live oaks dripping with moss in the parks and squares, it’s magical. There is great food around every corner and since downtown is considered an entertainment district, you can stroll the streets with a cocktail in hand.

See our full guide to the Best Things To Do in Savannah!

Savannah has several museums including the Telfair Museums and SCAD’s museum. And of course several historic homes are available for touring too. Something fun that’s popular, and we have them in our hometown of Saint Augustine , is ghost tours. Being a historic city, of course it’s got stories…

Book a historic walking/food tour or ghost tour here !

Explore the Historic Districts and Parks

If you’re spending a few days exploring Savannah, the city itself, it’s best to get familiar by walking on foot. The Historic District, Historic District South, and the Plant-Riverside District are each beautiful and fascinating. You’ll find that there are so many great places to eat in Savannah ; you’ll want to eat your way around the city.

Spend a day wandering aimlessly through the historic district and enjoy taking photos and relaxing in any of the 24 public squares and parks. Being the first strategically planned city in the USA, the grid of the historic streets is easy to explore and every block offers a unique and beautiful view of Savannah life.

Some of our favorite Savannah squares to visit include:

• Telfair Square
• Orleans Square
• Oglethorpe Square
• Columbia Square
• Whitefield Square
• Troup Square

As you wander, respect the privacy of the residents of Savannah and do not trespass or impact their day-to-day. Sitting on a step here and there is okay, but posing on people’s porches or knocking on their doors IS NOT.

Also make time to visit Forsyth Park, one of the most wonderful places to see in Savannah. Much larger than any of the other 24 squares in the city, Forsyth Park is the heart of neighborhood life in Savannah. We actually have an apartment just off Forsyth Park and love spending weekends there!

Enjoy the live oaks, flowers, and artist tables and performers in Forsyth Park and you’ve got a winning afternoon plan. Check the city’s website for current events at Forsyth Park.

See our Complete Guide to Forsyth Park!

Enjoy Factors Walk and Plant Riverside District

The historic area along the Savannah River is really fun and beautiful. Of course it’s a bit touristy with the riverboat cruises going out from River Street, but it’s still fun and historic.

Check out riverboat cruise tours here!

Be sure to read the historic plaques on buildings and the captions on statues. The Riverside District was the center of the cotton trade in the 1800s, so there is a lot of history, including both the slave trade AND the Underground Railroad.

Tip: try to get on a tour with Savannah Underground Tours to learn about abolition and the Underground Railroad in Savannah.

Also on the river is the JW Marriott Plant Riverside, and it’s incredible. Found in the renovated old riverside powerplant, the JW Marriott is full of art, gems and fossils on display for the public. Amazing, large amethyst geodes and dinosaur fossils are all around. And the JW Marriott lobby collection includes an enormous replica of an Amphicoelias fragillimus, the largest dinosaur ever found.

Finish out the day on the riverfront with rooftop dinner or drinks at any of the many bars and restaurants along River Street or Factors Walk. The Topdeck is great for a 270 degree view of Savannah.

Savannah Historic Sites Not to Miss

Just outside of downtown Savannah is Wormsloe Historic Site. It’s a part of the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites ( get the annual pass ). Wormsloe is a beautiful place to visit. What it’s most famous for is the mile and a half live oak tree tunnel.

Besides the live oaks, there is a small museum about the original structures built around the property, several trails through the forest and into the marsh, and also living history demonstrations. Other historic sites have more to offer in terms of sights and activities, but the incredible live oak tree tunnel all by itself is worth the visit.

Check the Wormsloe Historic Site website for up to date information and happenings at the park.

Another must-visit spot is the Bonaventure Cemetery : the prettiest cemetery in Georgia. It’s not far from downtown Savannah so it’s easy to add to your Georgia Coast road trip. Visit Bonaventure on the way into or out of town. It’s not walkable from the downtown area, but if you are bringing or renting bikes, it’s an easy ride.

If you’ve seen Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil the Bonaventure Cemetery will look very familiar. The bending trees and Spanish moss paired with the centuries old ornate tombs are really dramatic to see. Don’t go looking for the Bird Girl sculpture from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil though, because it’s not there. It’s in the Telfair Academy (Telfair Museums) in Savannah .

Best Beaches on the Georgia Coast

As I said, Georgia isn’t like Florida when it comes to beaches. The Georgia Coast road trip route crosses marshes and rivers to get to the beaches. The drive from Atlanta to Savannah will have you aching for a day at the ocean, so continue just a half hour past the city for the first beach stop on the Georgia coast.

Tybee Island Beaches

Tybee Island is considered “Savannah’s beach” and rightly so. As you continue on your Georgia Coast road trip, hit up Tybee Island for it’s unique lighthouse (it’s not round, but its shape is an octagon), relaxed vacation vibe and beautiful beaches.

What I love about the beaches of Tybee Island is how active the surf is. Living in Florida, we have a pretty far walk out to the bigger waves for body surfing and boogie boarding. At Tybee Island, the waves crash pretty close to shore, but still with enough shallows that families can have swimming time together.

Tip: watch for sea turtles when you’re visiting Georgia beaches in the summertime. Swimming at Tybee Island in July we saw a loggerhead sea turtle swimming right by us, so know that you’re sharing the water with wildlife.

Beaches on Tybee Island:

• North Beach / Tybee Beach Point
• Mid Beach / Memorial Park
• Tybee Beach at the Pier
• South Beach / Chatham Ave Beach

BE AWARE OF PARKING RULES . Because Tybee Island is also a residential place, there are parking restrictions. Also, there are paid parking lots and street-side parking, so check the posted signs before leaving your vehicle. You can’t do a Georgia Coast road trip if your car gets towed away…

Sapelo Island Reserve Beach

Visiting the Sapelo Island Wildlife Management Area and Blackbeard National Wildlife Refuge isn’t just something you happen into. You need to plan it. If you want to visit and explore Sapelo Island, including the pristine Georgia beaches, you need to arrive early in the day and take a boat from the visitor center onto the island.

The ferry to Sapelo Island is a tour, and you’ll need to bring your own snacks, drinks and bug repellent. But once on the island it’s amazing. You’ll find beaches, the red and white striped Sapelo Lighthouse (much like the West Quoddy Lighthouse in Maine ) and wildlife.

TOUR DETAILS: because Sapelo Island is protected, visiting means taking the ferry (25 minute crossing) and then doing a guided bus tour of the island and its sights. You do get to get on and off the bus but it’s limited to approved areas. Confirm on the website that it’s a tour day and CALL FOR RESERVATIONS.

St Simons Island Beaches

I love St Simons Island for lots of reasons, but its chill beaches are really key to a fun visit. At the south end of the St Simons is the shipping area, so you won’t want to access the water there, but as you head north, from the beach at the King and Prince Resort to the Beach at Gould’s Inlet, you’ll find calm waves and at low tide, flat, fine sand stretching into the surf.

Beachfront hotels aren’t very common on the Georgia Coast, so if your road trip need a few nights ON the beach, St Simons is a good place to do that. Jekyll Island has beachfront hotel options too.

Jekyll Island Beaches

Georgia beaches are so unique to each other. Your Georgia Coast road trip takes you to Jekyll Island next. Here you’ll find several nice beach parks, from the south end at St Andrews Beach to the super cool Driftwood Beach. There is a bike path that goes along a good portion of the beach, so ride and take frequent breaks to enjoy the waves.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Part of the National Parks system, Cumberland Island National Seashore is another place that’s tricky to get to. Like Sapelo Island, you have to take a ferry to get to it and then you’re limited with your transportation options. Once on the island though, it’s beautiful.

Read our full guide to visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore!

To make sure you have enough time and get your money’s worth, be sure to catch the FIRST ferry to the island and that you can catch the LAST ferry back (or the 2:45pm boat if you’re okay with shortened beach time). The facilities on Cumberland Island are minimal, so don’t arrive expecting the glamor of Everglades National Park or the services of Glacier National Park . This is a rustic park.

Note : there are water filling stations several spots on the south end of the island, which is where you’ll be for 90% of your visit. And there are a few bathrooms besides at the dock.

Highlights are the pristine Georgia beaches you can swim and beachcomb at , the ruins of the Dungeness Mansion and the wild horses. Yes, wild horses!

Like up in Assateague or Chincoteague, Virginia there are feral horses roaming Cumberland Island. They clearly are often fed by visitors, but cool just the same. They do come very close and YOU are the one responsible for maintaining a safe distance.

Plan to bring bikes onto the island if you can, or you can rent them. To see all of the sites it’s a lot of ground to cover. Ideally camping for a night or two would be perfect to explore on foot, but that’s not an option for many, so bringing bikes to Cumberland Island is the best bet. There is also the Lands and Legacies Tour , which can be booked in advance.

Get up-to-date sailing and fare information for the Cumberland Island Ferry here!

Georgia History Road Trip Stops

You can’t swing a dead cat on a Georgia road trip without it landing someplace historic. And that’s why we love doing the road trip on the Georgia Coast. From Tybee Island to the Florida-Georgia border you’ll find British colonial history, Civil War history, the Underground Railroad, prohibition and more.

One of the best road trip ideas from Florida to Georgia is to stop at each historic fort along the way. Or plan a road trip to Jekyll Island visiting plantation and military ruins. So many great road trip themes you can choose from!

Old Fort Jackson in Savannah

Just outside of downtown Savannah on the way to Tybee Island is Old Fort Jackson . We loved this place so much. We’ve been to lots of forts and done lots of living history demonstrations and Old Fort Jackson is a winner!

Yes, Dry Tortugas National Park is amazing and beautiful and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is fun with kids, and the living history at Colonial Williamsburg is awesome, but Old Fort Jackson is subtle and wonderful. We really enjoyed how unique this pre-Civil War era fort is and the musket and cannon demonstrations were great.

Entrance to Old Fort Jackson is included if you have the Georgia State Historic Sites pass, otherwise it has an entrance fee per person ($9/adult and $5/child). Check the Old Fort Jackson website for any current events and schedule.

Visiting Fort Pulaski National Monument on Tybee Island

If you haven’t been to Dry Tortugas and won’t be able to visit the Florida Keys anytime soon, Fort Pulaski National Monumen t is a great option to add to your Georgia Coast road trip. A HUGE brick fortress with a lighthouse and a moat, Fort Pulaski is pretty cool.

Located on Cockspur Island (basically Tybee Island still), Fort Pulaski isn’t far off your Georgia road trip route. Visiting with kids is fun and one of the most educational fort sites we’ve visited. The Junior Ranger packet is pretty complex, but as long as you’re interested in history and love attention to details, it’s a breeze to complete.

Wander the fortress walls and tunnels, watch for wildlife in the marsh and do the nature trails to the edge of the island to get the full experience. The small Cockspur Island Lighthouse has been under renovation in 2021, but when it’s finished is an easy walk from the visitor center.

Tip : use your America the Beautiful National Park Pass here!

Georgia History at Fort Morris and Fort McAllister State Historic Sites

I know, another fort to visit. There are just so many of them! One of the great things about planning your stops on a Georgia Coast road trip is that you DON’T have to do every single one. For example, both Fort Morris and Fort McAllister are along the route but you can skip one or both of them.

Both of these forts are Georgia State Historic Sites so are covered by the pass. They are very similar in that they are ruins of forts with earthen coverage. The live oaks and historic exhibits are cool and interesting, but they aren’t as intriguing as Old Fort Jackson or Fort King George.

Top Pick: Fort King George Historic Site

We LOVE Fort King George Historic Site. And it too is included with the Georgia State Historic Sites pass. Seriously, that pass pays for itself in a few days.

Fort King Georgia is very different from any of the other forts we’ve included in our Georgia Coast road trip plan. Fort King George is mostly reconstructed with a few historic ruins, like there are some mill ruins and a cool old cottage. Dating to the 1700s when England and Spain fought all the time, Fort King George is a great example showing how construction and technology changed over time.

There are nature trails, cool fortress buildings, a museum and even a dock to watch for alligators from. Be prepared with bug spray. Fort King George is located directly in the Georgia marsh and there are lots of flies and mosquitoes depending on the weather. The visitor center even posts a warning about the bug activity level for the day.

Note: the mosquitoes really are no joke. We encounter intense mosquito activity when we do bioluminescent kayaking in Florida , and the bugs in the Georgia marsh sites are very comparable.

There are also seasonal kayak and canoe rentals available at Fort King George. If you choose to go paddling, be sure you’re prepared to prevent bug bites.

Exploring Beautiful Brunswick, Georgia

Despite many Georgia Coast road trips, somehow we kept on skipping Brunswick. Never again! Brunswick, Georgia is a beautiful town complete with public squares, parks and fountain. Beautiful 19th century architecture can be seen all over the historic downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.

Walk down Newcastle Street to find local galleries, the really beautiful old city hall, small squares and lots of restaurants. Visit Hanover Park and Square to enjoy live oaks, flower gardens and a beautiful fountain. Pop over a few blocks to check out the Lovers Oak. Wow! What an enormous tree!

Outside of the historic downtown is our favorite stop in Brunswick, and one we’ve made several times now: the Pinball Palace . An awesome collection of vintage pinball machines and other 80s video games (I swear they’re straight from an old Pizza Hut) the Pinball Palace is perfect for the inevitable rainy afternoon. Pay by the hour for unlimited play.

Best Road Trip Stops in Georgia’s Golden Isles

We’ve done several vacations JUST to the Golden Isles of Georgia. There is so much to do and relaxing around the islands is so easy. The Golden Isles are comprised of Jekyll Island, St Simons Island, Little St Simons Island and Sea Island. Brunswick connects them all, but it’s not an island (so cool though!).

FYI, if you are up for a really fun idea, bring your bikes or rent them on the island to get around everywhere. Biking on St Simons Island is really fun and with great bike paths, it’s easy to do. Also, the island is super flat which is perfect for biking. And this is, what I think is, the epicenter of Georgia Coast kayaking !

Fort Frederica National Monument on St Simons Island

The first stop, since we’ve been talking about so many forts is Fort Frederica National Monument . It’s interesting because it’s mostly ruins and is just pretty to wander through. As you explore Fort Frederica, you’ll walk down used-to-be streets ogling huge live oaks and checking to see if the oranges are ripe yet.

There are some cannons, fortress ruins, the ruins of an 18th century two story barracks building and more. Our kids enjoy doing the scavenger hunt around the Fort Frederica grounds. It’s a great way to keep them interested is engaged.

Climbing the St Simons Island Lighthouse

We visit as many lighthouses as we can. We love lighthouses ! The St Simons Island Lighthouse is a great one for getting a slice of history and a beautiful view. It’s not too tall, at just 104 feet (129 steps). The St Augustine Lighthouse has 219 steps, so this one is pretty easy in comparison.

Plan around a hour or more to do the maritime museum and lighthouse, and then if the weather is nice do the walk along the waterfront path. The village of St Simons is right near the lighthouse too, so it’s easy to walk to any number of dinner places when you’re done.

Hunting for Spirit Trees Around St Simons Island

Another wonderful feature of St Simons Island is its spirit trees. All around the island there are live oaks with faces carved into them. Over the years, the tree bark has grown around the faces of many of the St Simons Island tree spirits , but searching for them is still a fun Georgia Coast road trip activity.

The biggest and most well maintained spirit tree is the large mermaid named Cora by the visitor center. If you’re not down for a cross-island scavenger hunt, visit Cora and call it good.

Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island 

Wildlife education, and in particular sea turtles, needs to be a part of visiting the Georgia beaches. Loggerhead, green, hawksbill, Kemp’s ridley and leatherback sea turtles all make their egg laying nests on east coast beaches, with coastal Georgia having hundreds of sea turtle nests each year.

Visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island is a must for both learning and seeing turtles up close. In addition to the exhibits, there is also an observation window where you can watch the doctors at the facility do check-ups and sometimes operate on sea turtles.

Pay a visit to the holding tanks and listen to the caretakers talk about turtle health and safety. This is the perfect place to inspire kids to develop a love of nature and an understanding of human impact.

Explore the Ruins and Trails at Horton House and Pond

The Georgia Coast road trip includes a lot of ruins of houses and forts. While other parts of the South have many well preserved structures and historic sites, Georgia’s have often been hit hard by war or weather. The Horton House on Jekyll Island is an example of that.

Built in 1743 the remains of the Horton House make for a beautiful backdrop as you head into the woods on the nearby trail, but there’s not much left to it. Across the street is a small historic cemetery and then through the woods you’ll find Horton Pond.

It’s a nice stop, and the live oak forest is beautiful to walk through.

Favorite Eats on the Georgia Coast

I don’t love writing about food, but it really is an integral part of travel, particularly in a place like Coastal Georgia. So here’s what Imma do: tell you some great things to watch for and then give you my picks for places we’ve enjoyed on the Georgia coast across our many road trips.

Georgia Coastal Dishes to Try

Peaches. Actually, there’s a lot more to enjoy than Georgia peaches.

You can’t talk about Coastal Georgia cooking without talking about the low country boil. When you’re doing a Georgia Coast road trip, you’re driving through the “low country.” A low country boil is a combination of local seafoods and corn, served as a basket or platter. It’s ALWAYS too much food for one person, but it’s delicious.

Another dish to watch for is blackened fish. This is popular in Florida too, but in Georgia for some reason it tends to run spicier. Commonly served on a hoagie in the style of a po’boy, blackened fish tends to be whatever the local catch is, rubbed with lots of herbs and seasonings and then grilled or sautéed up.

Grits and gravy is good too. Mmmm. My favorite grits and gravy is at the St Augustine Fish Camp in our town, but I’ve had it several places in Georgia too and it’s always good. Expect the gravy to have some sort of ham in it, and to be thick, just a bit more thin than the grits it’s served on.

Hushpuppies. Yum. Do you like cornbread? Do you like biscuits? Then hushpuppies are for. Basically cornbread balls that are fried, hushpuppies are a southern staple. If you can get them with jalapeños in them and served with honey butter then you’ve really hit to Georgia eats jackpot!

The last delicious Georgia food to watch for is roasted pecans, candied or as pralines. Pecans are BIG in the South and it’s easy to find candied pecans almost anywhere, whether it’s a gas station or a roadside stand.

Restaurant Recommendations on the Georgia Coast

When we’re looking for restaurants, we look for local options that have fresh cooking and characterize the area. Our picks for restaurant recommendations on the Georgia Coast exemplify that. We’ve included some favorite spots from Savannah too, as Savannah is a primary destination for a Georgia Coast road trip.

Starting in Savannah and heading south on the Coastal Georgia route, here are our favorite places to eat in the Savannah area:

• Pirate House – Savannah, good coastal food in a historic house (and it’s funny too)
• Corleone’s Trattoria – Savannah, Italian food that’s really delicious and great with kids
• Treylor Park and Hitch – Savannah, local food with several locations
• Driftaway Cafe – Savannah, near Wormsloe Historic Site

And moving onto Tybee Island restaurants:

• Sundae Cafe – Tybee Island, get the chicken fried chicken. OMG
• Salt Island Fish and Beer – Tybee Island, name says it all
• Savannah Praline Company – Tybee Island, pecans and much more

Favorite restaurants in the Golden Isles :

• Echo St Simons – St Simons Island, at the King and Prince Resort but so very delicious, get Eggs Coastal for breakfast
• Gnat’s Landing – St Simons Island, Red Fern Village area, great blackened catch of the day
• Moo Cow Ice Cream – St Simons, main village area, local ice cream made on site in the old service station
• Zachary’s Riverhouse – Jekyll Island, just off the water with great hushpuppies
• I ndigo Coastal Shanty – Brunswick, love the outdoor seating being loomed over by a huge live oak, great Caribbean flare

Of course there are more great restaurants, but after several visits to the Georgia Coast, these are our top picks. If you find some places you love, share them with us and we’ll give them a try!

6 Day Georgia Coast Road Trip Plan

Here is a plan for 6 days of Georgia beaches and historic sites. Have fun, drive safely, and make this plan fit with whatever YOUR travel style is!

Day 1: Arrive in Savannah

Drive from Atlanta to Savannah or fly directly into Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) to begin your road trip. Enjoy strolling River Street and Factors Walk. Enjoy a riverboat cruise on the Savannah River or have dinner at the historic Pirate House. If you like, get an adult beverage for your evening and walk through the historic district or find a beautiful public square to relax in .

Day 2: Explore Savannah Historic Districts

Today’s the day to pick a museum and enjoy. The Telfair or Savannah History Museums are both worth a visit. Walk either Liberty or Bull Streets visiting the many squares, eventually making your way to Forsyth Park for ice cream and appreciating the city.

Drive or bike to Bonaventure Cemeter y for a walk through the historic burial ground. If you drove, nearby Wormsloe Historic Site is an easy add-on. End the day back in town visiting the galleries of the JW Marriott Plant Riverside and then a rooftop dinner or drinks. Book a ghost tour for the complete Savannah experience.

Day 3: Tybee Island and Coastal Georgia Forts

Rise and shine and head to Old Fort Jackson before it’s too hot out. Enjoy some living history or wander the fort on your own. Next stop is Fort Pulaski National Monument for even more Georgia Coast tales and education. Move onto Tybee Island for lunch and then climb the Tybee Island Lighthouse.

Wrap up the day with sunset on the beach and a nice walk to dinner. Tybee Island is very chill, so expect the southern “relaxed” approach to dinner time.

Day 4: Georgia Low Country

From Tybee Island take your Georgia Coast road trip southward, making stops at Fort McAllister or Fort Morris (I’d pick Morris) unless you’ve booked a trip out to Sapelo Island to enjoy one of the most pristine Georgia beaches. When you’re ready to move on, visit Fort King George Historic Site to tour the reconstruction or go paddling at high tide.

End the day with an arrival at your Golden Isles hotel or vacation rental. Staying on St Simons or Jekyll Island will give you the option of being beach front, but staying in Brunswick is more central for the next few days’ activities.

Day 5: Enjoy St Simons Island

Begin your day with renting bikes on St Simons Island. This will make it both fun and easy to get around. Ride out to Fort Frederica and then make your way to the beach. Bring lunch with you or head back into the Village for food. In the afternoon, climb the lighthouse and then do the scavenger hunt around the island to find the many spirit trees.

End your day on St Simons with a nice dinner at Echo or a mellow low country dinner at Gnat’s Landing. It’s been a long day, so get some good rest tonight.

Day 6: Brunswick and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island has an entry gate, so the earlier you head to the Island the better. Start with a visit to Horton House and do the nature trail to Horton’s Pond (watch for gators!). From here, visit Driftwood Beach for some of the largest, most beautiful washed up logs in the southeast. Grab some lunch and then make your way to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

Head to Brunswick for your last evening in the Golden Isles. Plan to get your pinball on at the Pinball Palace (it really is a must) and then head to historic Brunswick for dinner. Enjoy walking around the old neighborhood and Hanover Park at sunset.

BONUS: Cumberland Island National Seashore

Book your ferry tickets in advance for this adventure. You need to book tickets TO Cumberland Island and then separate tickets FROM the island. If you’re not bring bikes or camping on Cumberland Island, plan to visit the Dungeness Ruins and the beach, watching for deer and wild horses. This is plenty to do in a day and will make for a beautiful, memorable trip!

I hope you have a great time on your Georgia Coast road trip. Whether you’re driving from Atlanta to Savannah and then doing it or if you’re driving up from Florida, you’ll enjoy the history and beauty with every turn.

Wednesday 13th of April 2022

One of my favorite Savannah locales is Jekyll Island. You will undoubtedly appreciate the seashore and a variety of activities. Include some of this in your schedule.

Saturday 11th of December 2021

Savannah Georgia really has some of the best beach destinations in the country! I'm really going on a beach tour there on my next visit! This blog is really helpful and Jekyll Island is certainly on top of the list for me!

Jessica papillon

Sunday 1st of August 2021

Love Savannah Plan to do st Simon and Jekyll islands soon

Monday 2nd of August 2021

Yay! If you're short on time, you can easily break this route up into two trips, even though it doesn't cover a ton of ground. Doing Savannah and the historic coast sits and then doing the Golden Isles is a great way to split it.

More joy. More adventure. More life.

Arkansas , Florida , Georgia , North Carolina , Road Trips , South Carolina , Tennessee , Travel , USA Travel , Virginia

10 Fabulous Southeast USA Road Trip Ideas

USA Travel: Southern States Road Trip Itineraries

Planning a southeast USA road trip?

Wonderful!!

I’m so excited to continue my USA road trip series! Hopefully over the course of this series you’ll find some of the best American road trip routes and definitely some of the best road trips in the south!

This week I am sharing ten fabulous southeast USA road trip ideas. From Florida to North Carolina to Arkansas we’ve got southeast vacation ideas for couples, family, and even solo travelers.

In this post you will find ten southeast USA road trip ideas:

Washington DC to Outer Banks Road Trip

• West Coast Florida Road Trip
• East Coast Florida Road Trip

Tennessee to North Carolina Road Trip

• Southern US Road Trip through North Carolina

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

South carolina coastal road trip.

• Highlights of Arkansas Road Trip
• Georgia and South Carolina Road Trip
• Interstate 95 Road Trip

Are we there yet? Check out our epic list of 250 road trip questions to keep everyone entertained along the way!

Southeast USA Road Trip Vacations

I’m a believer that an epic road trip belongs on every bucket list !

Road trips are the best because they allow you to plan and be spontaneous all at the same time. They are also a great way to bond with your family. Gone are the days of the dreaded family road trip. We now look forward to spending time together and experiencing new things and new places!

We personally have road tripped all over the United States from California to Utah to New York to Florida. But because we live in the south, we road trip the southeast USA by far more often than the rest of the country. So…I’ve listed some of the best road trips in the south to inspire you to create your own epic road trip too!

How do I create my road trip itineraries?

I have a variety of methods, but it generally starts with one main destination.

Then I look to see if there is a loop I can create or if it will be a “there and back trip”. Some of my best planning tools include Google maps, Pinterest , and Instagram . If you’re not using these already, then you’re probably missing out on some fun stops and hidden gems! I’m also a huge fan of Yelp when it comes to finding great places to eat!

So let’s get to it!

I hope these southeast USA road trip itineraries give you some inspiration, tips, and all the tools you need to create your next epic road trip!

Make sure to read our Road Trip Essentials Checklist before hitting the road!

This post contains affiliate links which means I could earn a small commission, if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my full Disclosure  HERE .

Southeast USA Road Trip Itinerary: Washington DC – Williamsburg, Virginia – Outer Banks, North Carolina

Looking for a good mix of history, adventure, and fun in the sun? Then this is the perfect southeast road trip for you! You’ll need a minimum of five days (although we definitely recommend six or seven) for this southern road trip from Washington DC to the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Days 1 & 2: Spend the first two days of your trip in our nation’s capital. There are so many fun things to do in Washington DC. You won’t want to miss the National Zoo, the National Monuments and Memorials, The White House, and the Capital.

You should also consider visiting Arlington National Cemetery, one of the most famous cemeteries in the US , and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier while you are in the area. It is an absolutely unforgettable experience.

Washington DC is exceptionally beautiful during springtime if you’re able to time your southeast USA road trip to see the cherry blossoms!

Day 3 : Drive 2.5 hours south for a day full of history and fun in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Watch history come alive in the world’s largest living history museum. Check out Colonial Williamsburg, historic Jamestown, and Yorktown. Had your fill of history? Get your adrenaline pumping at Busch Gardens and Water Country USA.

Insider Tip: If you have more time, consider an extra day in Richmond, Virginia before arriving in Williamsburg.

Days 4 & 5 : It’s up to you how you spend your last two days in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Just 2.5 hours from Williamsburg, you can fill your days with loads of Vitamin D and rest and relaxation on the beautiful beaches of the OBX.

But, don’t be fooled, there’s a lot more to the Outer Banks than just beaches!. Get even more history in at the Wright Brothers Memorial or The Lost Colony. Get active hiking, surfing, kayaking, hang gliding and more!

Visit Jockey’s Ridge, the tallest living sand dune system on the east coast. And wrap up your unforgettable southeast USA road trip through DC, Virginia, and North Carolina with a tour to see the wild horses in Corolla.

Need more details ? Read our family friendly guides to Nags Head , Corolla , and the rest of the Outer Banks !

Need suggestions on where to stay in the Outer Banks? We recommend: The Saturday House Airbnb , the Hilton Garden Inn , or check out these amazing beach house rentals.

Florida West Coast Ramble Road Trip from Coleman Concierge

Day 1: Arrive in Naples Day 2: Punta Gorda, Charlotte Harbor, Cayo Costa Day 3: Siesta Key, Venice Beach Day 4: St Petersburg, Clearwater Day 5: Tarpon Spring, Dunedin, Crystal River Florida’s west coast has everything great about the state packed into 250 miles of scenic beauty. Since the Everglades covers the entire South-West tip of Florida, Naples makes an obvious choice to start this trip.  We made a day of visiting  Cayo Costa , a state park only accessible by boat that’s home to some the best shelling beaches in Florida. Spend the night in a waterfront hotel in Punta Gorda after returning from the Charlotte Harbor Tour. For Day three, plan a visit to Venice Beach, the shark tooth capital of the world, at low tide. You’ll find fossilized shark teeth by the dozens sieving through the sand. You might even find a giant megalodon tooth from this 50 million-year-old beast. Spend the remainder of the day on the sparkling white sand of  Siesta Key  which gets consistently rated as one of America’s most beautiful beaches. Day four takes you to the urban hip city of St Pete. Enjoy the gastropubs of Ybor City and sunset on Clearwater Beach. Be sure to check out the Dali Museum in Tampa and explore the Florida Aquarium.  If you feel particularly daring, try diving with the sharks in the aquariums giant tanks. Day five lets you drive across Europe but never leave Florida. Dunedin is a Scottish style village where we found bagpipers playing in the town square and enjoyed a pint at an authentic Scottish pub. Tarpon Springs is the sponge capital of the world and built like a Greek Village fishing village. If you have time, check out this guide for more fun things to do in Tarpon Springs .

Roll into Crystal River and call it a night. You’ll have an early day tomorrow. The grand finale of Florida’s west coast is swimming with manatees. Crystal River is the only place in the world you can swim with manatees. More than 400 of these gentle giants come to King’s Bay every winter. Take the earliest tour possible and maybe, if you’re lucky, a baby manatee will come out to play with you.

Do you love the beach as much as we do? Check out these other awesome east coast beach destinations to help with your trip planning!

Traveling A1A: Florida’s Iconic Beach Route from Florida Man on the Run

Day 1: Fernandina Beach Day 2: St. Augustine Day 3: Cape Canaveral (Cocoa Beach) Day 4: Delray Beach Day 5: Miami Beach Day 6: Key West

Florida doesn’t seem like your typical road trip destination, but that is a misconception. In fact, one of the most iconic coastal routes in America can be found along Florida State Road A1A. This six-day itinerary will let you take the drive in leisurely fashion, which is the only way to do it.

Day One: Fernandina Beach is everything you could want from Old Florida. Check out the beach inside Fort Clinch State Park to get one of the more pristine Florida beaches. The city’s downtown is a perfect slice of Old Florida, so don’t miss it.

Day Two: Packed full of history, St. Augustine is a major destination on this trip. Castillo de San Marcos is the center piece of St. Augustine. Make your way down St. George Street to do some shopping. Afterwards, head onto the island to visit Anastasia State Park or the Alligator Farm with the kids.

Day Three: Cape Canaveral allows you to explore being an astronaut, stand next to ginormous rockets or perhaps even catch a rocket launch. Kennedy Space Center is a unique place you won’t be able to find anywhere else in America. Spend the night at Cocoa Beach and get your first taste of Florida’s beach night life.

Day Four: While there is plenty of beach front to explore on this trip, Delray Beach offers the perfect blend of beautiful beach front, quirky arts districts, and all-Florida charm. The trip between Cocoa and Delray is one of the longest days, so get an early start to enjoy Delray.

Day Five: How can you take a trip along the Florida coast and not spend some time on South Beach! It’s not the usual road trip scene, but the sights and sounds of South Beach truly aren’t to be missed. So go enjoy yourself and live it up!

Day Six: Today you’ll travel along one of the most unusual bridges in the world to a destination equally as unique. Make your stop at the Southern Most Point, then head to Duval Street and party it up! The best thing about ending in Key West is that you literally have nowhere else to go, so sit back, relax, and grab a margarita.

Make sure you don’t forget a thing before you head to the beach with our ultimate beach day packing list !

Day 1: Nashville, Tennessee Day 2: Nashville, Tennessee Day 3: Nashville, Tennessee Day 4: Chattanooga, Tennessee Day 5: Chattanooga, Tennessee Day 6: Asheville, North Carolina Day 7: Asheville, North Carolina

Days One-Two-Three: Start this road trip with a bang in Music City! Nashville, Tennessee has so many fun things to do that it deserves three entire days! Start out Day one in the heart of it all by enjoying some live music downtown. Visit the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and catch the best view of the city from the famous Pedestrian Bridge. If you really want to experience authentic Nashville try free line dancing lessons from the Wildhorse Saloon each afternoon!

If country music really isn’t your thing, be sure to venture out of the downtown area. Visit the 12 South neighborhood for some awesome shopping, food, and street art. This is where you’ll find the famous “I Believe in Nashville” mural. The Gulch is another awesome area for food and some can’t miss wall murals like the “what lifts you” wings. Next check out the exact replica of the Parthenon, Bicentennial Capitol Mall State, Park, and the State Capitol. Finally, no matter where you are staying the Gaylord Opryland Resort is absolutely worth a visit. Be sure to check out a performance at the nearby Grand Ole Opry too!

If possible, you should absolutely consider adding a day in Memphis, Tennessee to this road trip!

Days Four & Five : Next hit the road and head to Chattanooga. This drive should take you about 2 hours. If you’re into Jack Daniels, stop through Lynchburg for a distillery tour . Once you arrive in Chattanooga, check out Raccoon Mountain Caverns, the Riverwalk, or try white water rafting on the Ocoee River. BUT, in my opinion, two can’t miss things to do in Chattanooga are Lookout Mountain and Ruby Falls (I mean have you ever seen an underground waterfall before??)

Days Six & Seven : Finally finish your trip by heading northeast about three and a half hours to the super hip town of Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville is known for it’s music, food, craft beer, history, and outdoor fun! Check out the Biltmore Estate, Sliding Rock, and my personal favorite: breakfast at Biscuit Head.

Need more details? Read our family friendly guide to visiting Asheville and The Biltmore Estate !

Explore North Carolina

NC Road Trip Itinerary: The Triangle: Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill – Wilmington – Pinehurst, North Carolina

North Carolina truly has so much to offer! While the mountains and the Outer Banks get all the fame and attention, there are so many more awesome North Carolina destinations worth a visit! This road trip might be one of my favorite southeast US vacations, but I guess I may be a little biased! LOL. You’ll need at least two days in each destination, but I’m betting you’ll want even more time!

Days 1 & 2: You’ll begin this southeast road trip in Raleigh, NC’s capital city. Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill are called “The Triangle” and are all within 30 minutes drive of one another. All vibrant cities on their own, you’ll have to pick and choose where to spend your time over these first two days.

There are so many fun things to do in Raleigh !

We recommend spending a bit of time outdoors at one of the area parks and recreation areas. Check out Eno River State Park, Lake Johnson Park, Sarah P Duke Gardens, or simply wander the campus of UNC- Chapel Hill. Check out some of the great area museums like the NC Museum of Art, catch a show or sporting event, and do not miss out on the incredible foodie scene!

Days 3 & 4 : Just two hours down the road is Wilmington NC, my most favorite city in North Carolina!! Soak up the sun at any of the three amazing area beaches: Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach. Explore the downtown Riverwalk area, shop the boutiques, and check out our favorite places to eat in Wilmington . Visit the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, visit USS NC Battleship, and Carolina Beach State Park. Want to do something totally unique? Did you know that venus flytraps only grow in the wild within a 100 mile radius of Wilmington NC? Check out the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Gardens to see them- one of the best free things to do in Wilmington !

Local Insider Tip : If you have an extra day to fit in here, I highly recommend a day trip to Bald Head Island ! You won’t regret it!

Days 5 & 6 : Time to say goodbye to the beach, but don’t worry, you’re going to love Pinehurst . You may think that Pinehurst is only for golf lovers, but you would be wrong! Just 2.5 hours from Wilmington and one hour back to Raleigh is the super cute town of Pinehurst. Of course, if you’re into golf, then by all means, this is definitely the place to play. But, you’ll also fall in love with the charm of downtown Pinehurst and the Pinehurst Resort. Ride bicycles and explore, hang by the pool, take a romantic carriage ride, visit the spa, and do not forget the amazing food options. Pinehurst is the perfect spot to slow down and savor some southern charm.

For more details on the best things to do in all of these destinations, check out my family friendly guides to Raleigh , Wilmington , Carolina Beach , and Pinehurst !

Want to explore more of North Carolina? Read our ultimate North Carolina road trip guide!

Fall foliage isn’t only found in New England!! If you’re looking for the perfect fall foliage road trip in the south, then this is it! Keep in mind the leaves turn a bit later in the season than in the northeast USA, but it is still just as stunning!! 

When planning your southeast US road trip through the Blue Ridge Parkway the best colors are often seen during the month of October. However, this will all depend on your elevation, location on the Blue Ridge Parkway (it spans 469 miles!), and of course the weather! It can be very tricky to plan travel for peak fall foliage but predictor maps are often found with a quick google search.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the USA and belongs on everyone’s USA bucket list ! Although you can probably drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in around twelve hours, you will definitely want five to seven days exploring this beautiful area around the Appalachian Mountains! 

Starting in Virginia going south to North Carolina, here are some of the stops you should consider during your road trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway:

• The Natural Bridge in Virginia 
• Purgatory Mountain Overlook
• Wildcat Rocks Overlook
• Grandfather Mountain
• Linn Cove Viaduct
• Linville Falls
• Crabtree Falls
• Mount Mitchell
• Craggy Gardens
• Mount Pisgah

What is there to do near the Blue Ridge Parkway? There are so many cool things to do and see on this epic southeast road trip itinerary. Hiking for all ages and abilities, the cutest markets and orchards, mountain biking opportunities galore, waterfalls, history, food, and more will keep you busy for days! You will want to stop at every scenic viewpoint and soak it all in. But beware! You won’t be the only one out there. Prepare for traffic and crowds…this is known as “America’s Favorite Drive” for a reason!

Make your reservations as far in advance as possible! Depending on the length of your southeast road trip itinerary we recommend staying in Roanoke, Blowing Rock, Boone, Asheville, or Cherokee.

Short on time? Consider Asheville or Boone for your next NC weekend getaway !

Southeast Beach Vacation: Myrtle Beach – Charleston – Hilton Head, South Carolina

Love the beach? Then this is one of the best road trips in the south for you!! Get your fill of fun in the sun on South Carolina’s best beaches!

Days 1 & 2: Arrive in Myrtle Beach early as there are so many fun things to do while you are in town. Play in the surf, build sand castles, and look for seashells along the 60 mile stretch of coastline in Myrtle Beach. Check out Broadway at the Beach, Ripley’s Aquarium, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and more! Catch one of the famous Myrtle Beach shows- our favorites are Medieval Times and The Pirate’s Voyage. Finally don’t forget to check out one of the south’s most beautiful gardens year round: Brookgreen Gardens. (Psssttt…this is also a great golf destination too!)

Visiting during the off season? Find out all the best things to do in Myrtle Beach during the winter !

Days 3 & 4 : Head south about two hours to Charleston ! Be sure to check out downtown Charleston, take a carriage tour, visit Patriot’s Point, and Fort Sumter. But since this is a beach vacay, you’ll want to spend some time along the coast as well. Check out Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, or Isle of Palms. You’ll be able to surf, kayak, sail, and more at all of these beaches. Don’t forget to make time for some golf while you’re in town too.

Days 5 & 6 : Two more hours south and you’ll arrive in Hilton Head. You may be ready for some R&R but there’s plenty to keep you busy here too! We love to stay at The Sea Pines Resort so that we can ride bicycles to everything! Visit the famous Harbourtown Lighthouse, check out the fancy yachts in the harbor, and of course go to the beach!! Need more to do? Hang out by the pool, go horseback riding, play tennis, and of course play some golf!

Needless to say, South Carolina has two things we absolutely can’t get enough of: beaches and golf! Any way you cut it, you’re going to have a lot of fun in SC!

Arkansas Road Trip from Heart of a Homemaker

Day 1: Harrison Day 2: Harrison, Benton Day 3: Murfreesboro Day 4: Hot Springs Day 5: Little Rock Day 6: Depart from Little Rock

Day One – Drive from Kansas City Missouri to hotel in Harrison, Arkansas.

Day Two – Our first stop was Mystic Caverns with a tour of two beautiful caves, which were easy to walk through with affordable admission. We then drove down Scenic Highway 7 towards Jasper and enjoyed the gorgeous views. We stopped at the Observation Tower and Gift Shop for a small break. This is not a highway for someone that gets car sick. My son never had before and this one did him in.  Then we drove to Benton, AR (suburb of Little Rock) to our hotel.

Day Three – Drive to Murfreesboro – We spent the whole day at Crater of Diamonds State Park. The visitor’s center was interesting, and we enjoyed digging for diamonds. It was a very hot and sunny day, so we only searched for a couple of hours. We enjoyed a picnic lunch and then cooled off at the Diamond Springs Water Park right next door. It is part of the state park and was clean, fun, and budget friendly.

Day Four – Drive to Hot Springs – We visited the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo. This place is incredible, and we held a baby alligator!  We went to the top of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. On the way back we drove through Lake Catherine for a picnic lunch. We hiked the Falls Branch Trail to a lovely waterfall and played in the crystal clear and refreshing water.

Day Five – Drive to Little Rock – We spent half a day at the Little Rock Zoo. It is a smaller zoo with a wide variety of animals and a spray park. We were tired from the trip, so we crashed at the hotel for the rest of the day, but if you have the energy consider visiting Pinnacle Mountain State Park or Museum of Discovery.

Day Six – Depart to home. We made a last-minute stop at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum and North Shore River Walk.  The tour included going down into an old navy submarine, and the museum had some very informational and interesting exhibits. After that we hit the road back to Kansas City. As always, we followed these tips for safer family travel .

Georgia to South Carolina Road Trip

Day 1: Arrive Atlanta, Georgia Day 2: Atlanta, Georgia Day 3: Savannah, Georgia Day 4: Savannah, Georgia Day 5: Charleston, South Carolina Day 6: Charleston, South Carolina Day 7: Depart Atlanta

Alert! Serious southern charm ahead!

Day One & Two : Fly into Atlanta, Georgia as it will probably be your cheapest option. Spend Days one and two exploring Atlanta. My number one stop would be the Georgia Aquarium…I mean it is the largest indoor aquarium in the Western Hemisphere! Other worthwhile stops are The World of Coca-Cola, Stone Mountain Park, the shops at Buckhead, or catch a Braves game!

Days Three & Four : Next, hit the road about four hours to beautiful Savannah, Georgia! If you’re looking for southern charm, you’re in the right place! Start out by strolling the City Market shops, the Savannah Waterfront, and grab lunch at Paula Deen’s restaurant Lady & Son’s . Spend Day four choosing between exploring Wormsloe historic site (for that classic oak tree lined drive dripping with moss), relax at Forsyth Park, or visit a historic home. Be sure to indulge in the Savannah’s amazing food scene!

Days Five & Six : Finish up your week in the incredible city of Charleston, South Carolina . The drive should take you about two hours. We highly recommend the horse drawn carriage history tour- even our kids loved it! Spend the afternoon exploring The Battery, take the ferry across to Fort Sumter, and Charleston’s City Market. Oh, and don’t forget a picture with the famous pineapple fountain! If you missed the classic oak tree lined drive in Savannah, don’t worry you’ll have another chance! Visit Boone Hall Plantation for some pretty cool history and check out some famous movie filming locations too!

There are so many fun things to do in Charleston, I might consider one less day earlier in the week to give you more time here! You can choose to see the 500 year old Angel Oak Tree, the beautiful beaches, or Patriot’s Point . While you’re in the area, stop at one of these amazing places to eat in Mount Pleasant. Charleston also has an epic food scene and is not to be missed! Return back to Atlanta with a full belly and a week full of fabulous memories.

I 95 Road Trip

Interstate 95 is the major highway for travel up and down the east coast in the US. And our family has road tripped up and down I 95 many many times!

In fact, we live right off of I95 in North Carolina! Whether you’re just looking to break up your southeast USA road trip or are looking to visit somewhere new, these are some of the best places to stop on I 95. So pick two or three stops and create your own southeast USA road trip!

Richmond, Virginia

Suggested things to do in Richmond, VA : 

• Maymont- beautiful estate, gardens, farm, and park
• Museums: There are several great museums to visit in Richmond. We recommend the Virginia Fine Arts Museum, the Science Museum of Virginia, and the Virginia Holocaust Museum. The Poe Museum is also a unique thing to do in Richmond!
• Belle Isle – a great spot for some outdoor fun!

Rocky Mount, North Carolina

Rocky Mount is my hometown and a little known North Carolina gem!

Suggested things to do in Rocky Mount, NC :

• Visit the Rocky Mount Mills for coffee, small batch breweries, and good food !
• Stretch your legs and check out the waterfall at Battle Park.
• Check out the Imperial Center for the Arts & Sciences with the kids.

S uggested places to stay in Rocky Mount : For a unique stay, check out the world’s largest tiny house hotel, River & Twine . The Fairfield Inn and Country Inn & Suites are super convenient options too!

Read my full guide to Rocky Mount NC for more details!

Wilson, North Carolina

Suggested things to do in Wilson, NC :

• Check out one of the best roadside attractions in NC, Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park !
• Grab a bite to eat at Brewmasters or Jack’s
• Get some fresh air by wandering Barton College, The Wilson Botanical Gardens, or Lake Wilson

Local Insider Tip : If your southeast road trip happens to be during spring, be sure to pop in to see the Wilson Rose Garden!

Suggested places to stay in Wilson: Both the Hampton Inn & Suites or the Comfort Suites are super convenient places to stay right off of I95 in Wilson! Grab a bite at Best in Burger nearby too!

Savannah, Georgia

We happen to think Savannah is one of the most beautiful towns in the southeastern USA!

Suggested things to do in Savannah, GA:

• Visit Forysth Park
• Savannah City Market
• SCAD Museum of Art
• Do a food tour or ghost tour!
• Check out the historic district and the waterfront area
• Make reservations at The Grey or The Olde Pink House
• Wormsloe Historic Site – if you’re looking for those spanish moss covered trees- this is it!
• Leopold’s ice cream- a must!

Suggested places to stay in Savannah: Check our the JW Marriott Riverside or The Hyatt Regency Savannah .

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Jekyll Island is a little farther off the Interstate, but well worth the stop! 

Suggested things to do in Jekyll Island, GA:

• Surfing, kayaking, SUP, fishing, and biking
• Bird watching 
• Georgia Sea Turtle Center
• Driftwood Beach- While there are tons of fun things to do in Jekyll Island, my best recommendation is visiting Driftwood Beach at sunset. Truly a magical experience!

Jacksonville, Florida

Suggested things to do in In Jacksonville, FL:

• Visit Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida and TPC Sawgrass Golf Resort
• Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
• The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
• Little Talbot Island
• Kingsley Plantation
• Museum of Science and History
• Fort Carolina National Memorial

Wherever you decide to stop on I 95, all of these destinations are sure to be a great addition to any southeast USA road trip!

And be sure to share all your epic adventures on Instagram with these fun road trip captions and quotes !

Southeast USA Road Trip Itineraries

I truly hope these USA road trip itineraries have given you some inspiration to visit the south! Having lived in the south for over twenty years, I may be a little biased, but… if you can look past the summer heat and humidity, there are some really beautiful beaches, incredible scenery, fun outdoor opportunities, awesome food, and a rich history.

Do you love a road trip as much as I do?

Have you visited any of these fun southern destinations? Do you have any exciting east coast trip ideas?

Be sure to follow along to see more road trips across America- what area of the USA will we feature next? Stay tuned!

USA Road Trip Itineraries

Not looking for a road trip in the southeast corner of the USA? Check out these other USA road trip itineraries:

An Epic Southwest Family Road Trip: Colorado!

An 8 Day New England Road Trip from Boston- College Towns

An Ultimate 10 Day California Road Trip From San Francisco

A Road Trip to Yellowstone National Park and Jackson Hole, Wyoming

As always, if you enjoyed this Southeast USA road trip post please consider saving it to Pinterest or sharing it on social media. Every little bit helps! Thanks y’all!

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13 comments.

I love that this post included 5 road trip itineraries! This is a lot of great info in 1 amazing post! So incredibly helpful! -Jen

Thank you! Im so glad you found this info helpful! We love a road trip and I’m always excited to find inspiration and ideas from others!

These are routes I never would’ve though’ve myself. I especially like the Georgia to South Carolina Road Trip suggestions. I’ve been wanting to get down there for years.

Oh it’s so worth a visit!! So many fun cool cities to explore!

Your Charleston pineapple fountain photo brought a smile to my face. I loved exploring that city! Great to know your other suggestions, too.

Thank you! Charleston is such a special city! We adore it too!

I do love me a good road trip! These are great choices. Personally I want to do Miami to Key West -never been!

We do too! We did Miami to key west a few years ago and it was incredible!!

This is so useful. I would love to do a US roadtrip but I have no idea which one! So many awesome itineraries to choose from.

What a fun list of road trip ideas! We have stuck to the SW, but I’d love to do the SE soon!

These are incredible – great detail & lovely trips!

These are all such great suggestions. I am happy to report that I have visited several places that you suggested 🙂

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Take A Black Heritage Road Trip Along The Gullah Geechee Coast

For this edition of Black Heritage Road Trips, we take you along the Gullah Geechee coast, from Florida through the Georgia sea islands to South Carolina.

Danielle Dorsey • Aug 6, 2019

The Gullah Geechee Corridor is a 12,000 square mile National Heritage Area that recognizes the unique cultures of the Gullah Geechee people who are the descendants of those brought from West Africa and Central Africa during the transatlantic slave trade. Occupying roughly 80 barrier islands, the Corridor is home to the Gullah people in the Carolinas and the Geechee in Georgia and Florida. A visit to the Gullah Geechee Corridor provides insight into how enslaved Africans used language, food, art, and tradition to keep their cultures alive. 

For this edition of Black Heritage Road Trips, we take you along the Gullah Geechee coast, beginning in Florida and heading through the Georgia sea islands to South Carolina. 

If you’d like professional help planning your tour of the Gullah Geechee Corridor, you can reach out to the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society in Georgia or Gullah Tours in Charleston, SC, which provides in-depth historical tours on Gullah Geechee culture.

Florida 

St. Augustine

Begin your trip in the oldest city in continental America, St. Augustine, Florida. Founded by Spanish explorers in the mid-16th century, this city represents both the beginning and end of slavery in America. Historical sources are mixed on whether the first Africans to arrive with the Spanish were crewmembers or enslaved, but the Spanish explorer who founded St. Augustine noted that free Blacks already had a presence in the nearby French settlement of Fort Caroline.

Nearby Fort Mose became an early stop along the original Underground Railroad and the country’s first free Black settlement in 1738. In the late 18th century, Jorge Biassou, one of the leaders in the uprising against the French in Haiti, came to St. Augustine and became a general with the Spanish army. A Black militia also helped save the city from invasion during the War of 1812, for which they received land grants from the Spanish governor.

St. Augustine also played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement. Perhaps the most well-known event occurred at the Monson Motor Lodge when Black activists integrated a whites-only pool and the motel owner responded by pouring muriatic acid in the water, which was captured on film by journalists. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed the next day.

Dive further into this history at the 40-acre Fort Mose Historic State Park, which offers a museum that tells the complete history of the first free Black settlement and hosts bird watching and water activities.

Afterward, head to St. Augustine’s historic downtown where you can join a public walking tour with St. Augustine Black Heritage and Civil Rights Tours .

American Beach

Head to Amelia Island and catch some rays at American Beach, Florida’s first resort beach for Black Americans. Located in Jacksonville, the beach was founded by Abraham Lincoln Lewis, who founded the Afro-American Life Insurance Company and was the state’s first black millionaire. Stroll through the streets and you’ll notice they’re all named after the town’s Black founders and their families. During the height of American Beach popularity, it wasn’t unusual to see Ray Charles, Zora Neale Hurston, or Hank Aaron lounging along its shores. 

Georgia 

It’s easy to immerse yourself in Black history in Savannah, a city which boasts a 55 percent Black population within its 136,000 residents. Visit the Beach Institute, Georgia’s oldest Black school which has been transformed into a museum and gallery that highlights local Black artists. If your trip coincides with a Monday evening, climb aboard the Savannah River Queen for their weekly gospel cruise, which includes two hours of soulful singing alongside a Southern buffet. 

You’ll find plenty of Black-owned restaurants, retail shops, and other businesses to patronize in Savannah. Click here for a list of options. 

Hog Hammock on Sapelo Island 

Not far from Savannah lies the small community of Hog Hammock which is comprised mostly of Gullah-Geechee people. Sapelo Island is only accessible by plane or boat, meaning that locals bring all of their supplies from the mainland and children ferry into the mainland every weekday for school. The entirely of Hog Hammock is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and simply walking through the community offers plenty of history to explore. Be sure to visit the St. Luke Baptist Church, founded in 1885, and First African Baptist Church, established in 1866, as well as the island’s general store and only bar. 

Harris Neck

Itching for some adventure? Next, you’ll head to the Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge, a 2,824-acre wildlife habitat that is home to six manmade freshwater ponds, an extensive salt marsh, forested wetlands, a pine forest, plus 342 bird species, 83 of which breed on the refuge. 

But perhaps the most fascinating part of the refuge is its connection to the Gullah Geechee. After slavery ended, white landowners deeded the plantation to freed slaves and it became a profitable rural community with a local church, cemetery, and school established. During World War II, the government purchased the property and established it as an army airfield. In 1962, the National Wildlife Refuge took ownership of the airfield and established it as a protected wildlife area. 

South Carolina 

South Carolina is perhaps the state that is most well-known for its ties to Gullah Geechee history and culture. As you make your way through the Palmetto State, stop in Georgetown and get more familiar with local customs at the Gullah Museum.

Atlantic Beach

Located between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach, Atlantic Beach remains the only current Black-owned beach in the nation, with most of its properties, retail shops, restaurants, and nightclub owned and operated by Black people. The beach hosts a “Black Bike Week” every year which draws tourists who celebrate Black motorcycle culture. 

While in Charleston, be sure to visit The Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture for more information about the Gullah heritage and Black history throughout America. The center offers exhibits, public programming, tours, and an extensive archival collection. Charleston is another Southern city with a large Black population and rich history to explore, visit this directory of Black-owned businesses to inform where you buy while traversing the Lowcountry. 

Oyotunji holds the distinction of being the country’s oldest authentic African village. Approximately five to nine families currently live in the village and tourism helps support their livelihood. The village hosts festivals throughout the year that celebrate various Yoruba deities and holidays, visit their website to schedule a tour.  

Penn Center on St. Helena Island 

Perhaps one of the most significant stops along the Gullah Geechee Corridor is the Penn School Historic District on St. Helena Island. This National Historic Landmark contains 18 buildings in a 47-acre area that date back to the mid-18th century. The oldest building is the Brick Church, which was built in 1855 by enslaved Africans and was used as a church, community center, and an abolitionist school during the Reconstruction Era. It was one of the first schools for newly emancipated Blacks. 

The district also includes the Gantt Cottage where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Southern Leadership Conference often met during the Civil Rights Movement. 

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5 Great Georgia Road Trip Stops (+ A Florida to Georgia Road Trip Itinerary)

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If you are planning a Georgia road trip, we’ve got 5 great centers to base your Georgia road trips around. These Georgia road trip ideas also work for a larger Southern USA road trip because Atlanta is a major international hub in the region. Another popular option is the Florida to Georgia road trip because the Atlanta to Orlando drive is fast and say on I-75. We suggest c ool stops between Atlanta and Orlando because there is so much to see and to do along the way.

Florida to Georgia Road Trip

Although Atlanta is a major international hub, flights from the UK tend to be on Delta Airlines to Atlanta. Unfortunately, British Airways and American Airlines have a strong relationship which leaves Delta out in the cold (ok, Gatwick airport which we find inconvenient from North London).

If you fly into Orlando Florida, you can generally get better flight times and cheaper flights. So we have done a Florida to Georgia road trip quite often. Similar to our Boston to New York road trip you can either zip along on the interstate or take leisurely pace and see all the cool sights along the way on an Orlando to Atlanta drive.

The Atlanta to Orlando drive time runs about 6 hours if you bomb along I-75North. The Atlanta to Orlando distance is less than 500 miles with most of these Atlanta to Orlando miles done on the interstate.

We have gone f rom Atlanta to Orlando drive time ranging between 2 days to a week, depending on what stops you make on your Atlanta to Orlando road trip.

Halfway between Atlanta and Orlando is Valdosta. Other cool stops to make between Atlanta and Orlando are Macon Georgia, Lake City in Florida and Gainesville in Florida.

On our Atlanta to Orlando road trip, here are ideas for places to visit between Atlanta and Orlando FL.

• My son LOVES airplanes and the Warner Robbins Museum of Aviation is a treat.
• Macon Georgia is a cool university town with two very different yet fabulous museums. The Tubman Museum on African Art and A llman Brothers Band Museum on the rock band.
• The Grand Bay Wildlife Area in Valdosta Georgia
• You will probably get your fill of theme parks in Florida, but children never seem to. Check out the Wild Adventures theme park which has safari animals, adrenaline-rush attractions and a water park.
• Lake City is the gateway to the Osceola National Forest with its thousands of acres of swamps and wetlands that stretch onto the Okefenokee National Park .
• Gainesville Florida is another college town with plenty of attractions including a burgeoning craft beer scene.

Our favorite places to stay between Atlanta and Orlando include Valdosta in Georgia and Lake City in Florida, both of which have extensive hotels right off the interstate.

Swing by the swamps of Southeastern Georgia on your Georgia road trips

5 Georgia Road Trip Stops

We associate Georgia with our children being born in Marietta, a northwest suburb of Atlanta. Although Georgia was a brief stop among the many places we have lived in the world, this state will always have a special place in our hearts.

We didn’t see much of Atlanta at the time and we have always promised the kids to plan a trip to Atlanta to see it properly.

The distance from Atlanta to Savannah is 250 miles. From Savannah, the coastal islands are an easy drive. For example, Tybee Island to Savannah is a mere 20 minute drive. 

The driving distance from Savannah to Jekyll Island is about 90 miles or a two hour drive. Atlanta to Jekyll Island though is about 290 miles and a 5 hour drive. It absolutely makes sense to make a pitstop in Savannah if you are driving from Atlanta to the Georgia coast.

A Georgia road trip should always include a trip to Atlanta, the capital, and a visit to the coastline like a trip to Tybee Island.

Plan a Trip To Atlanta

A great stop on any Southern US road trip is Atlanta, Georgia where there is a variety of things to do that will please every traveler. While you can see a lot of Atlanta in one day , a couple days or weekend is best to really experience all the city as to offer. Stop in Ria’s Bluebird for breakfast with delicious French toast or try Simply Done Donuts with epic mini donuts with unique flavors. Try Mary Mac’s Tea Room for a classic Southern meal where you can try fried chicken, collard greens, fried okra, and more! Atlanta is full of incredible attractions so you really can’t go wrong. To save a little money on admission prices, check out the CityPASS. Some of the top attractions in the city are the Georgia Aquarium , rated top in the nation, Atlanta Botanic Gardens , with Alice in Wonderland themed topiary sculptures, or the Atlanta BeltLine , a mural filled pedestrian pathway that circles the city. Other highlights include the picturesque Jackson Street Bridge where you can catch a glimpse of the Atlanta skyline, made famous by the Walking Dead TV show. Don’t miss Martin Luther King Jr Historical Park , to learn about MLK Jr. and America’s history of racism and the civil rights movement. If staying overnight, the Marriot Marquis is one of the best hotels in the center of downtown. You’ll probably recognize its unique interior from movies like The Hunger Games. by Alanna Koritzke from Periodic Adventures

Walk the the Atlanta Beltline when you visit Atlanta, a must-see on any Georgia road trip (Image credit: Alanna Koritzke)

Plan a Trip to Augusta

When planning a road trip across the Southern states in the USA, Augusta, Georgia doesn’t usually come to mind as a place to stop. However, this military town has a lot to offer travelers. One of the most famous activities in Augusta is Master’s Week , a major golf tournament that happens every April. Tickets to watch the tournament are hard to come by and require applying for months in advance, but even if you can’t get tickets, this is still a great time to visit Augusta—the city comes alive! Augusta’s downtown area has the most activities and is the best place to stay. The Riverwalk along the Savannah River provides a beautiful place to enjoy the balmy weather and occasional local events. There is also a local art museum, a plethora of bars and restaurants serving Southern food, and historical sites, from the Augusta Canal to the childhood home of Woodrow Wilson . Visitors who love the outdoors will enjoy kayaking in the Savannah River, visiting Phinizy Swamp to find alligators, and camping at Mistletoe State Park . This lesser-known state park lines the Clarks Hill Lake , and is great for boating, kayaking, swimming, and hiking. It’s beautiful, secluded, and much less crowded than other state parks in Georgia. There are also many ranger-led activities there during the weekends and throughout the summer. Whether it’s for the food ( Frog Hollow Tavern and Boll Weevil are local favorites!), the outdoor activities, or Master’s Week, Augusta makes the perfect pit stop on a tour of the Southern United States!

– By McKenna Hurd of One More Step Travels

On your Georgia road trip, consider stopping in Augusta for places like Mistletoe State Park pictured here! (Image credit: McKenna Hurd)

Trip to Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island should be on any southern road trip. This unique little gem is a beautiful island in southern Georgia and feels like a hidden getaway. It has been a vacation retreat for centuries and known for its peaceful calm. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, walking, kayaking and swimming and there are plenty of opportunities to do this all across the island. One of the best activities is to hire bicycles and cycle around the whole thing. Over copper colored creeks and trees heavy with the Spanish Moss which are all across the island it’s a beautiful activity to really appreciate the scenery. It’s also the perfect way to stop off at some of the island’s gorgeous beaches as you go, the most spectacular of which is Driftwood Beach . Regularly named as one of the top beaches in the US this is a special stretch of white sand that is littered with pine and oak tree limbs, bleached by the sun and like a piece of art. This is the perfect spot to watch the sun set from. There are a number of the great family resorts in Georgia   based here in Jekyll Island, the most notable of which is the Jekyll Island Club which is packed full of old world charm and the rocking chairs that line the porch are the perfect place to sit back and relax a while. However long you come for you will wish you had longer, it’s a great place to really unplug and relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. – by Nichola of Family Hotel Expert

Swing by a gorgeous beach like Driftwood Beach on your Georgia road trip (Image credit: Family Hotel Expert)

Plan A Trip To Savannah

Travelers from all over the country visit Savannah to see its picturesque squares, stroll along the beautiful cobblestone streets, and sample the city’s incredible Southern-style cooking. The Historic District is very small and walkable, so it’s best explored on foot! Begin along the river, where you can watch the giant container ships sail into port along River Street. Next, head to nearby City Market to shop in the galleries while enjoying live entertainment. Afterwards, hit up the many shops lining Broughton Street (Paris Market is a must!), and then head deeper into the Historic District. That’s where you can explore the city’s many beautiful squares and stroll along Jones Street, which is considered one of the prettiest streets in Savannah . Make sure to stop by Forsyth Park and snap a picture in front of the famous fountain! The Olde Pink House is a favorite restaurant amongst both locals and visitors. It offers fine dining inside an elegant historic mansion. For those who prefer something a little more casual, try Vinnie Van Go Go’s Pizza or Treylor Park. Bonaventure Cemetery and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist are two can’t-miss landmarks, while the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters is a top-rated tour. If you’re into the spook factor, a ghost tour is a must! After all, Savannah is considered one of the most haunted cities in the US. Stay at The Marshall House, which is one of the oldest hotels in Savannah. They’re known for their incredible Southern hospitality.

– Erin Clark from Savannah First Timer’s Guide

Savannah is one of the best road trip stops in Georgia (Image credit: Erin Clarkson)

Plan A Trip to Tybee Island

Tybee Island should be on the Georgia road trips list because it’s the closest beach for R&R after indulging in all the historic and cultural excitement that Savannah offers.

Although you will plan a trip to Tybee Island to chill out, you will not be bored. There are plenty of things to do on Tybee Island for a small beach destination. For example,

• Enjoy Tybee Island beach which has been recognized as one of the best beaches in the USA
• Engage in watersports like SUP and surfing
• Visit pretty Tybee Lighthouse , the oldest lighthouse in Georgia
• Learn about Coastal Georgia at the Tybee Marine Center
• Take a boat tour to see dolphins and other wildlife

The drive from Tybee Island to Atlanta is nearly 300 miles and a 4 hour drive. Tybee Island to Savannah is much closer and a mere 20 minutes away. You’ll find plenty of accommodation options, including hotels, inns and vacation home rentals, for your trip to Tybee Island.

Things to do on Tybee Island include stopping by its famous lighthouse.

Map for Georgia Road Trip Ideas

The Georgia road trip ideas mentioned above are mapped out below. The red markers show the Georgia to Florida road trip we take along I-75 connecting Atlanta to Orlando FL.

A map of Georgia road trip ideas including an itinerary for a Florida to Georgia road trip (or vice versa) with cool stops between Atlanta and Orlando

SPREAD THE WORD! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE! 

Planning a Georgia road trip and looking for road trip ideas? Here are 5 must-see Georgia road trip places to visit picked by travel experts as Georgia bucket list destinations. Georgia bucket list road trips include Atlanta Georgia, Savannah Georgia and coastal Georgia things to do. Georgia travel things to do cover adventure travel, beach vacation and city getaway weekends perfect for family travel, couples travel and girls weekend ideas. When you road trip usa east coast, think Georgia!

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

15 Fun Georgia Road Trips For Your Bucket List

February 17, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for a fun Georgia road trip to add to your bucket list? Then look no further! This list is full of amazing road trips around the beautiful state of Georgia.

Whether you want to visit coastal cities, try the best food in Georgia, or get lost in the mountains, there is a perfect road trip on this list for you. Georgia is a beautiful Southern state known for peaches and Coca-Cola. But there is more to the state than that.

Georgia has a rich history that has made for some very unique destinations. It is also located near the Blue Ridge Mountains and the has a beautiful Atlantic Ocean coast line. You can drive from the West to the East and experience wildly different landscapes, activities, and even dining.

The Peach State is home to some amazing food, spooky haunted buildings, beautiful landscapes, and even its own little Hollywood. You just have to know where to look.

Monticello to Senoia

If you’ve ever wanted to experience a slice of small-town Georgia, then the small towns in Georgia road trip is the perfect way to do so. Start off your trip in Monticello, which was once a major cotton town. Continue on to what is easily one of the cutest small towns in the South , Helen.

In Helen, enjoy the Bavarian-style architecture and take the time to explore one of the local vineyards. Next head to the charming town of Blue Ridge, which is named for its close proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Finish your trip in Senoia, which is a quaint historic town just 35 miles south of Atlanta.

Haunted Georgia

• Colonial Park Cemetery
• Devil’s Bridge
• Central State Hospital
• Tennga Motel

Start your Haunted Georgia Road Trip in one of the most haunted cities in the South, Savannah . There you’ll walk through the historic and spooky Colonial Park Cemetery. Next on your trip, head north to the Devil’s Bridge in Cochran. It is there that Satanic Cults were rumored to perform rituals.

After exploring Devil’s Bridge, continue heading north to the Central State Hospital. The Central State Hospital is a large abandoned asylum that is said to be haunted by its former patients. End your haunted road trip at the Tennga Motel in the extremely small town of Tennga. If you go at night, you may be able to spy a few lonely ghosts haunting the abandoned motel.

Amicalola Falls to Toccoa Falls

• Amicalola Falls
• Panther Creek Falls
• Tallulah Falls
• Toccoa Falls

Start your Georgia Waterfall Road Trip at Amicalola Falls, one of the top rated waterfalls in Georgia. While at the State Park, there are a total of seven waterfalls you can view. Next make your way to Panther Creek Falls, and on the way there you will pass a few other waterfalls you can view.

From Panther Creek Falls, continue on to Tallulah Falls. In the Tallulah Gorge State Park there are a total of six waterfalls you can hike to that flow into the gorge. Finish your trip at Toccoa Falls, which is actually on the campus of Toccoa Falls College. If you are looking for hiking adventures, the Georgia Waterfall Road Trip is a must-do.

Savannah to the Golden Isles

• Tybee Island
• the Golden Isles

The coastal Georgia road trip is all about exploring the best coastal cities in Georgia. You’ll start your road trip in Savannah where you can find a ton of things to do . From there head south to Tybee Island and explore the local lighthouse.

Continuing south, you’ll stop in Riceboro and Darien, two amazing coastal cities. After leaving Darien, you’ll want to stop in Brunswick for a bite to eat and then continue on. You’ll end your trip in the beautiful Golden Isles where you can tour a sea turtle center or even go shrimping.

North Georgia Mountains

• Cast & Blast Inn
• Downtown Blue Ridge
• Dawsonville

For your road trip through the North Georgia Mountains, you’ll want to start your journey in Dahlonega. While there explore Georgia’s wine country with a winery tour or stop at the Smith House. Make sure to check out some of the Best Things To Do In Dahlonega!

Continue North to the Cast & Blast Inn where you can learn how to go fly fishing from a professional.

From the Cast & Blast Inn you’ll head west into Downtown Blue Ridge. It’s a charming mountain village that is home to pure mineral springs. Continue your journey by heading south and making sure to stop into Ellijay, another charming mountain village. Finish your trip in Dawsonville where you can explore Amicalola Falls State Park.

Georgia National Parks Road Trip

• Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
• Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park
• Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

If you want to see some of the best National Parks in Georgia, then start your road trip in Northern Georgia at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. There you can view two of the Civil Wars’ most important battle sites. From there, continue south to the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

Near Kennesaw there are two other National Parks that you should take the time to check out. One of them honors the late Martin Luther King Jr. and the other overlooks the Chattahoochee River. Continue south on your drive to the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and learn about the Native American tribes that once called the area home. Finish your trip at the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site where you can tour his former home, school, and more.

Covered Bridges of Georgia

• Watson Mill Bridge
• Poole’s Mill Covered Bridge
• Concord Covered Bridge
• Auchumpkee Covered Bridge

Most people think covered bridges only exist in New England, and that’s just not true. On the Covered Bridges of Georgia road trip, you’ll begin your tour at the Watson Mill Bridge. It is one of the largest covered bridges in the state and one of the most popular. As you make your way to Poole’s Mill Covered Bridge, there will be several other’s you can admire.

From Poole’s Mill, continue on to the Concord Covered Bridge. The Concord Covered Bridge has a unique Queen-rod design that makes it the Georgia-covered bridge with the highest amount of traffic. Finish your Covered Bridges of Georgia road trip at the Auchumpkee Covered Bridge. It’s not open for traffic, but you can get a close up view of it and it’s the perfect way to end your adventure.

Epic Nature Road Trip

• Okefenokee Swamp
• Stone Mountain Park
• Providence Canyon
• Radium Springs

Start your exploration of Georgia’s epic natural world at the Okefenokee Swamp. At almost half a million acres, it is considered to be the largest swamp in the US. Continue Northwest where you can make stops in Savannah, Tallulah Gorge State Park and Amicalola Falls State Park. Your next stop will be Stone Mountain Park.

There you’ll find a beautiful large lake and picturesque views. Head South to Providence Canyon. Providence Canyon is a soft-walled canyon made of red clay and loam and it makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a mini Grand Canyon. Finish your road trip at Radium Springs. There you can look into crystal clear water and explore the landscape.

Abandoned Places Road Trip

• Dungeness Ruins
• Harville House
• Atlanta Prison Farm
• New Manchester Manufacturing Company

Some of the places on this list are also awesome stops if you want to do the Haunted Georgia road trip at the same time. Start out at the Dungeness Ruins in St. Marys. There you can walk amongst the ruins of a once beautiful mansion. From there, travel to the Harville House. The Harville House is a beautiful abandoned mansion hidden on Harville Road.

Next, you’ll venture into Atlanta to take a look at the Atlanta Prison Farm. The Prison Farm is a bunch of abandoned warehouses on private property, so you’ll have to legally admire it from afar. But the buildings are covered in unique graffiti and overgrown plants. End your trip at the New Manchester Manufacturing Company to view the pre-Civil War cotton Mill that burned down shortly after the Civil War.

Cherry Blossoms from Macon to Atlanta

• Macon International Cherry Blossom Festival
• Waddell Barnes Botanical Gardens
• Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival
• the Governors Mansion

If you want to experience Cherry Blossom season in Georgia, you’re going to want to spend most of your time in Macon. The city of Macon hosts an International Cherry Blossom Festival every year. It is also home to the Waddell Barnes Botanical Gardens where you can view Cherry Blossoms during blooming season.

Outside of Macon, you’ll want to travel to Conyers. Conyers is another city in Georgia that hosts a Cherry Blossom Festival. It’s not as big as Macon’s, but its still a must attend for any Cherry Blossom lover. Finish your tour of Georgia’s Cherry Blossoms at the Governor’s Mansion in Atlanta.

Georgia’s Fall Foliage Road Trip

• Cloudland Canyon State Park
• Vogel State Park
• Moccasin Creek State Park
• Black Rock Mountain State Park

Georgia in the Fall is a beautiful time to visit. If you want to drive around looking at Fall foliage, start your road trip at Cloudland Canyon State Park. Cloudland Canyon is one of the biggest State Parks in Georgia and has plenty of vantage points to allow you to enjoy the foliage. Continue on to Vogel State Park where you can admire the beautiful Fall colors against the lake.

From there head to Moccasin Creek State Park. It is one of the smaller State Parks in Georgia, but it has some beautiful views. You’ll be able to admire the Fall leaves against the backdrop of waterfalls, Moccasin Creek, and more. Finish your road trip at Black Rock Mountain State Park. It’s the park with the highest elevation, so you’ll get some amazing birds-eye views of Georgia’s beautiful Fall foliage.

Lighthouses of Georgia

• Tybee Island Lighthouse
• Cockspur Island Light
• Sapelo Island Lighthouse
• St. Simmons Island Lighthouse

There are four lighthouse in Georgia, and on this road trip in Georgia you’ll get to see them all. In Northern Georgia, you’ll start your journey at the Tybee Island Lighthouse. It is near Savannah and is one of the most popular lighthouses to visit in Georgia. Continue South to the Cockspur Island Light. It’s the smallest lighthouse in Georgia and it’s unique because it sits alone in the water.

From there, head to the Sapelo Island Lighthouse. It is a classic red and white stripped lighthouse and is actually the oldest brick lighthouse. End your trip on the Southern tip of St. Simmons Island. There you’ll find the large white stone lighthouse that was used during the Civil War, and after being burned down was rebuilt.

Georgia’s Antebellum Trail

• T.R.R. Cobb House, Athens
• Eagle Tavern Museum, Watkinsville
• Heritage Hall, Madison
• Hay House, Macon

For lovers of Antebellum Architecture, the Antebellum Trail is one of the best weekend road trips through Georgia. You’ll start your journey at the charmingly pink T.R.R Cobb House in Athens. It was once home to one of the authors of the Confederate Constitution. Next, learn a bit of history at the Eagle Tavern Museum in Watkinsville. Built in the 1700’s, visitors can experience what life would have been like in Watkinsville.

Continue on to Heritage Hall in Madison. It is one of the finest Antebellum homes in Georgia from a time when cotton made slave owners wealthy. Now, you can tour the home and learn about it’s famous owners and the slaves who built it. Finish your road trip through Georgia’s Antebellum architecture at the Hay House. It is a beautiful Italian Renaissance Revival mansion in Macon and available for tours.

Georgia Foodies Road Trip

• Big Pie in the Sky, Kennesaw
• Heirloom Market BBQ, Atlanta
• Sublime Donuts, Atlanta
• The Crab Shack, Tybee Island

You’ll start your foodie journey in Northern Georgia at the Big Pie in the Sky in Kennesaw. There you can take on the challenge to devour their famous 11 pound pizza. Next, head to Atlanta where you’ll find the next two ultimate foodie destinations.

The Heirloom Market BBQ is famous for its combination of Texas-style and Korean BBQ. It is a one-of-a-kind BBQ spot that you must visit in Atlanta. Next head to Sublime Donuts where you can enjoy unique donut flavors and sweets. Finish your foodie road trip on the coast at Tybee Island. There, dig into a classic Southern seafood feast.

The Georgia Film Enthusiast Road Trip

• Crawfordville

In recent years Georgia has become the Hollywood of the East Coast. It is a popular filming location for so many production studios, and even Marvel films have been made there. Start your journey through the stars in North Georgia in Atlanta. This is one of the biggest spots for filming in Georgia and has been the backdrop of movies from ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ to the ‘Blind Side’.

Next head to Crawfordville where you can reenact scenes from ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ and check out the Taliaferro County Historical Society’s exhibits on local filmmaking. Continue on to the small town of Monticello where movies like ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’ filmed in the Whistle Stop Cafe. Finish your film tour in Savannah. Savannah is one of the most popular filmmaking destinations and has been the backdrop of over 85 films, from ‘Forest Gump’ to ‘X Men: First Class’.

Have you explored any of these fun Georgia road trips? If not, you definitely want to make sure you add one, or even a few, to your Georgia travel bucket list. If you have gone on one of these awesome road trips, we’d love to hear about it in the comments!