The Ultimate Deep South Road Trip - 28 day Self Drive with flights

Your adventure begins in the heart of Louisiana’s most vibrant city—New Orleans. Spend three days immersing yourself in its soulful jazz scene, savouring Creole and Cajun cuisine, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the French Quarter. Don't miss a visit to Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the historic Garden District. By night, let the sounds of live music from Bourbon Street guide your evening. Optional tours include swamp boat rides or visiting The National WWII Museum.

Next, take a scenic drive to Houma, known for its bayous and authentic Cajun culture. This small town offers you a taste of traditional Southern Louisiana, with opportunities to explore the Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum or enjoy a swamp tour. Enjoy the quiet surroundings before heading deeper into Cajun Country.

Drive northwest to Lafayette, the heartbeat of Cajun Country. This vibrant town is famous for its food and music. Spend your time visiting Vermilionville Historic Village, which offers insight into Acadian, Native American, and Creole cultures. Experience a Zydeco dance night at a local restaurant and savour traditional dishes like gumbo and jambalaya.

Head to Louisiana’s capital, Baton Rouge, a city brimming with history and culture. Tour the Old State Capitol, a Gothic architectural wonder, or the USS Kidd, a WWII destroyer. Baton Rouge is also home to vibrant nightlife and fantastic restaurants, offering everything from Southern soul food to fine dining.

Cross into Mississippi for a night in Natchez, a charming river town known for its antebellum homes and rich history. Take a tour of one of the grand plantations like Longwood or Stanton Hall and enjoy a sunset over the Mississippi River. Natchez embodies Southern elegance and is a perfect stopover on your way up the river.

Continue to Vicksburg, a city steeped in Civil War history. Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park, where you can tour the battlefield, monuments, and historic structures. Learn about the town’s pivotal role in the Civil War and explore its charming downtown, filled with museums, art galleries, and Southern charm.

Head to Cleveland, Mississippi, a hidden gem in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. Spend two nights in this vibrant small town, home to the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, where you can dive deep into the region's rich musical heritage. Stroll along the charming downtown, filled with local shops and Southern hospitality, or catch live music at one of the local venues. Take a scenic drive to Dockery Farms, often hailed as the birthplace of the blues, where legendary musicians like Charley Patton once played. Cleveland is the perfect gateway to explore the soul of Delta blues and experience the timeless spirit of Mississippi.

Arrive in Memphis, Tennessee, where rock ‘n’ roll and soul music converge. Pay homage to Elvis Presley at Graceland, explore the vibrant Beale Street, and visit the National Civil Rights Museum housed in the former Lorraine Motel. Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River and experience the city’s legendary BBQ.

Onward to Muscle Shoals, Alabama, for a night in one of the most famous recording towns in the world. Visit the FAME Studios, where legendary musicians like Aretha Franklin and The Rolling Stones recorded timeless hits. The town's music history will leave you with a lasting appreciation for the influence of Southern soul.

Arrive in the Music City for three unforgettable nights in Nashville. Delve into country music history at the Country Music Hall of Fame, explore the honky-tonks along Broadway, and catch live music at the historic Ryman Auditorium. Discover the city’s thriving food scene, and if time permits, visit the Johnny Cash Museum or take a day trip to the beautiful Belle Meade Plantation.

Head to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains for a night in Chattanooga. Visit the stunning Rock City Gardens or take a stroll across the historic Walnut Street Bridge. This city offers outdoor adventures, including the scenic Lookout Mountain and Ruby Falls, the underground waterfall.

Drive to Birmingham, Alabama’s largest city, and a key location in the Civil Rights Movement. Visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and walk through history at the 16th Street Baptist Church. Explore the city’s revitalized downtown, with its diverse food scene and boutique shops.

Continue to Montgomery, the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement and capital of Alabama. Visit the Rosa Parks Museum, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, and the Legacy Museum to learn about the pivotal role this city played in American history. Wander the scenic Riverfront Park or explore Old Alabama Town.

Next stop, the port city of Mobile. This charming city offers a blend of Southern hospitality and coastal living. Explore USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, visit the Mobile Carnival Museum to learn about the origins of Mardi Gras, and enjoy fresh seafood by the Gulf Coast before your final leg.

Return to New Orleans for one last night, wrapping up your incredible road trip with a farewell dinner at a world-renowned restaurant. Relive the vibrant energy of the city, and perhaps enjoy a final stroll down Bourbon Street, ending your journey on a high note before departing the next day.

Today marks the end of your Ultimate Deep South Road Trip adventure. Relax for the morning and then return your car at the airport before your departure flight.