The South is full of great sights, history and small towns. Going on a road trip here is not only about getting from place to place — it’s about the experience. Each trip is different – meandering through mountain passes to coastal drives or tripping through forested canyons. Texas to the Carolinas, Southern road trips display the southern soul. To take in the best of the South, these eight journeys are a must for any true Southerner.
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The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful trip through the Appalachian Mountains. The road meanders through trees with spectacular views of ridges and valleys, especially in the fall when the leaves turn vibrant. There are overlooks, trails, and little towns along the way. Visit Asheville and Roanoke for mountain scenery and Southern hospitality.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee to Mississippi
This old trail leads you up a 444-mile trail that Native Americans followed centuries ago. From Nashville, Tennessee, you’ll ride to Natchez, Mississippi, over pristine forests, waterways, and landmarks. On the way, you can visit Civil War battlefields, old saloons, small Southern cities. The quiet, leisurely walk along this path is ideal for anyone who wants to engage with the history of the area.
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Texas Hill Country, Austin to Fredericksburg
A drive through Texas Hill Country introduces you to the state’s fusion of Southern and Southwestern influences. Start in Austin, a music and entertainment hub, then drive to Fredericksburg, a charming German town. It is a region known for its wineries, wildflower meadows and barbecue. It’s also known for its spring bluebonnets, which add splashes of color to rolling hill country.
The Great River Road, Louisiana
The Great River Road, from Baton Rouge to New Orleans, follows the Mississippi River. On this road are historic plantation homes, cypress-swamps and small Louisiana towns. The drive feels like a drive in old Louisiana with its Spanish moss, live oaks and riverfront. The drive takes you to New Orleans, where you can enjoy Creole food, live jazz and historic neighborhoods.
Florida Keys Overseas Highway
This road trip is unlike anything you’ve ever taken, tailing from Miami down to Key West over a cluster of islands. The Overseas Highway stretches across turquoise water, giving ocean views everywhere. You’ll find beaches, state parks and some of the best seafood around. Key West is fun and laid back, with colorful houses, unique stores, and history. Watching the sunset is a great way to end this tropical journey.
Charleston to Savannah, Coastal Route
The short, but scenic drive between Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia, is full of charm. You’ll begin in old Charleston, then head down the Lowcountry past marshes, rivers and coastal islands. You can stop in Beaufort, a historic town with its antebellum houses, or you can take in the seaside scenery at Hunting Island. It winds down in Savannah, a drive through the South’s most scenic landscapes and buildings.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail
This road trip is an absolute must for all Bourbon lovers. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail takes you through small cities, farmlands & distilleries. Starting in Louisville, you’ll get to a few of your favorite places, such as Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve, to experience the bourbon making process & even sample some. On the way, there are gorgeous horse farms, quaint inns and genuine Kentucky countryside.
The Alabama Coastal Connection
Alabama Coastal Connection is a scenic stretch along the Gulf Coast. It begins in Mobile, Alabama and takes you through pristine white sands, medieval forts & seafood parlors. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer nice sand beaches and blue water where you can lay back and soak up the sun. This road trip showcases Alabama’s coast — small towns, seafood, and the Gulf of Mexico at its best.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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