Best Southern USA Road Trip

America’s Deep South is an ideal road trip getaway with unique culture and an intriguing history. There is no shortage of things to do and sights to see on a southern U.S. road trip. 

Your southern states road trip itinerary will depend on how many miles you want to cover in a day and how much time you have on your hands. Here are some tips and ideas to help you plan the perfect Deep South road trip.

Where Is the Deep South?

Before you can start planning your Southern road trip, it would be helpful to know which states form part of America’s Deep South. Most definitions state that the southern states comprise Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. Because of their geographical location, Texas and Florida are sometimes included. 

Tips for Planning a Road Trip to the South

There are so many vacation spots in the southeastern United States. A three-week-long southern road trip is not enough to get to them all. However, with a bit of research, you can put together a southern states road trip itinerary full of unforgettable memories. 

Choose a Theme

Because the Deep South is so vast, it’s impossible to get around to all the must-see places in one road trip. Choosing a theme might be a good way to get some focus and help narrow the selection of places that you want to see this time around. For example, Black history, foodie spots, arts and music, or hiking.

Take Your Time

Don’t try to squeeze in too many cities with one- or two-day stays. Instead, spend three or four days at each destination to take time to soak it all in.

City Passes

Are you planning to stay in a city for a couple of days and see several sights? Find out if they have a city pass that offers discounts on entry fees for museums, popular attractions, and more.

Where Can I Go on a Road Trip in the South?

Your driving tour of the southern United States could take you from Charleston, South Carolina to New Orleans, Louisiana by way of Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. You could even dip down into Florida if you have the time. 

Budget for a Southern States Road Trip Itinerary

Depending on the type of accommodations you book, you can budget anywhere from $80 to $250 (or more) per night for two adults. For two adults, plan $50–$100 per day for food and drinks. If you’re going to eat out at high-end restaurants, you’ll need to spend even more. Depending on how many miles you travel, you can factor in somewhere between $250 and $450 for fuel. Don’t forget to budget for tours and entrance fees. Research the different attractions online to help you calculate what you need to set aside.

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is a diverse city with a rich history. 

Things to Do in Atlanta

Here is a list of exciting spots to visit:

• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park
• Center for Civil and Human Rights
• World of Coca-Cola®
• CNN Studio Tours
• Fernbank Museum of National History
• Atlanta BeltLine

Charleston, South Carolina

Things to Do in Charleston

• Taking a carriage ride in Charleston is a must-do. Opt for a carriage tour with a guide that can fill you in on a bit of the city’s history.
• You should make time for a plantation tour while in Charleston. The Slavery to Freedom tour at the Magnolia Plantation comes highly recommended. Other plantation tours include Boone Hall, Drayton Hall, and Middleton Place.
• Charleston was the biggest slave port in the U.S. Get a glimpse of this history at the Charleston Museum and the Old Slave Mart Museum.
• The Battery is a landmark defensive sea wall. Take a walk along its promenade to enjoy the waterfront view and stately antebellum mansions.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia. You could spend at least two days of your southern states road trip here. 

Things to Do in Savannah

• Learn about the town’s history, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement at the Savannah History Museum.
• Take a trolley tour to explore the picturesque waterfront.
• The Savannah Stroll is a fully guided walk through the city. 
• The Ghost Trolley tour offers an interesting look into the spooky and paranormal history of this city.
• Savannah is home to one of the country’s best art schools, so there are many art galleries in the city to visit. 

New Orleans, Louisiana

Thanks to the unique blend of African, Caribbean, French, and Latin cultures, New Orleans is one of the most eclectic cities in America.

Things to Do in New Orleans

• Take a stroll down Frenchmen Street to listen to incredible live music.
• Bustle with tourists along the ever-popular Bourbon Street.
• History buffs will enjoy the National World War II Museum.
• If you are traveling with kids, spend time in City Park.
• To view historic homes, colorful row houses, and Classical Revival mansions, take a stroll through the Garden District.
• For a taste of Mardi Gras festivities, try to schedule your itinerary so that you can be in New Orleans on a Saturday and catch a Second Line parade.

Book Your Accommodations for Your Deep South Road Trip

Once you’ve put together your southern states road trip itinerary, it’s time to book your accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a beach resort packed with amenities, or a simple hotel to spend the night along the road, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has just what you’re looking for.