Southern states road trip

Question

Hi! We are retired & would like to do a 2+ week road trip in late Sept or early Oct to visit southern states such as Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, & then possibly over to the Carolinas. Need help with an itinerary! I love music & my husband loves history. We live near San Francisco so figured we would fly into Tennessee or Georgia or ? & rent a car. Looking for suggestions on how to plan something like this also. Want to keep the pace fairly leisurely. Appreciate any guidance!

Answer

That sounds like an amazing road trip! The southern U.S. is rich in both music and history, so you’ll have a fantastic time exploring. Given your interests in music and history, I’d suggest starting in Tennessee or Georgia and working your way through the region at a leisurely pace. Here’s an itinerary suggestion that blends both historical sites and musical landmarks, while allowing for some downtime in between for relaxation and exploration:

Suggested Southern Road Trip Itinerary

Days 1-3: Memphis, Tennessee
Fly into Memphis, which is an excellent starting point for music lovers. Memphis is the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll, and it offers several iconic music attractions. You can explore:

Graceland: The home of Elvis Presley, now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.
Beale Street: Famous for its vibrant nightlife, you can listen to live blues music and explore historic bars and clubs.
Sun Studio: Known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, where legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their music.
National Civil Rights Museum: Located at the Lorraine Motel, this museum is a powerful place to learn about the history of civil rights in America.

Days 4-5: Nashville, Tennessee
Drive to Nashville (about a 3-hour drive), known as “Music City.” Here, the focus shifts from the roots of rock ‘n’ roll to the heart of country music. Some must-visit spots include:

The Grand Ole Opry: This iconic venue hosts live country music performances and is a must-see for any music fan.
Country Music Hall of Fame: This museum showcases the history and heritage of country music with exhibits on legends like Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and Dolly Parton.
Ryman Auditorium: Known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," this historic venue offers performances and tours.
Johnny Cash Museum: A tribute to one of the most influential figures in American music history.

Days 6-7: Chattanooga, Tennessee
From Nashville, head southeast to Chattanooga (about a 2-hour drive). Chattanooga is a city rich in history and scenic beauty. Explore:

Lookout Mountain: A historic site from the Civil War era, with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Don’t miss Rock City Gardens and the Incline Railway.
Tennessee Aquarium: If you enjoy nature, this is one of the best aquariums in the U.S., with a focus on aquatic ecosystems.
Chattanooga Choo Choo: A historic hotel housed in a former train station, where you can learn about the city’s railway history.

Days 8-10: Atlanta, Georgia
Next, head to Atlanta (about a 2-hour drive). Atlanta has a rich history and is an important hub in the Civil Rights movement. Some must-visit places are:

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site: Includes his childhood home, church, and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached.
Atlanta History Center: This expansive museum covers Atlanta’s Civil War history and Southern heritage.
Atlanta Botanical Garden: A beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Fox Theatre: A historic theater offering live performances in an opulent setting.

Days 11-12: Savannah, Georgia
Drive southeast to Savannah (about a 4-hour drive), a charming city with a mix of historic homes, cobblestone streets, and moss-draped oaks. While here, you can explore:

Forsyth Park: A lovely park with fountains, gardens, and scenic views perfect for strolling.
Historic District: Wander the beautiful streets, squares, and gardens, enjoying the southern architecture and charm.
Bonaventure Cemetery: A historic cemetery with incredible statuary and beautiful trees, known for its haunting beauty.
River Street: A bustling area of shops, restaurants, and bars along the Savannah River.

Days 13-14: Charleston, South Carolina
Finish your trip with a visit to Charleston (about a 2-hour drive). Charleston is known for its preserved historic district, beautiful architecture, and delicious southern cuisine. Here are some places to check out:

The Battery and White Point Garden: Historic homes and a park with views of the harbor and old cannons.
Fort Sumter National Monument: Visit the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
Charleston City Market: A great place to shop for local arts, crafts, and food.
King Street: Known for its shops and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

General Tips for Your Trip:

Leisurely Pace: Given that you want a relaxed pace, I suggest taking 2-3 days in each city to fully experience the attractions without feeling rushed.
Accommodation: Look for B&Bs or boutique hotels that offer a personal touch and are centrally located. Many southern cities have great options near historical districts.
Driving Distance: The drive times between cities are relatively short, but be sure to plan some downtime for spontaneous stops and exploration.
Seasonal Considerations: Late September to early October is a great time to visit the South as the weather is typically pleasant, and you’ll avoid the heat and humidity of summer.

This itinerary gives you a great balance of music, history, and scenic beauty, with time to take in the best of each destination. Enjoy your southern road trip!