September trip in the south

Question

hello friends,

I’ll do it really short: I have two and a half weeks (from early to late September) in America, and after visiting the main cities in my previous trips I would like to explore THE south a bit. so I would be happy to get a few tips/recommendations about:

-cities

-main sights

-preferred route

-transportation (I won’t be able to rent a car)

-other useful information.

my main interests are history and the local culture(s). And I’m on a low budget.

Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you have an exciting trip ahead of you, exploring the South of the United States! With two and a half weeks to spend, there's so much you can experience, especially if you're interested in history and culture. I'll provide you with some recommendations that will allow you to make the most of your time, even on a budget, and without a rental car.

Here’s a suggested itinerary and tips for your trip:

Cities to Visit:
- New Orleans, Louisiana: A city rich in history, culture, and music. Explore the French Quarter, visit the National WWII Museum, and take a steamboat ride on the Mississippi River. The city is walkable and has excellent public transport options.
- Charleston, South Carolina: Known for its well-preserved history, cobblestone streets, and charming antebellum architecture. Visit sites like Fort Sumter (where the Civil War began), the Battery, and the historic plantations.
- Savannah, Georgia: Another historical gem, famous for its picturesque squares, historic district, and Southern charm. Take a walking tour of the historic district, visit the Bonaventure Cemetery, and explore River Street.
- Memphis, Tennessee: Dive into the music and civil rights history of the South. Visit Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum, and Sun Studio. Memphis is known for its affordable attractions and vibrant culture.
- Atlanta, Georgia: Although a major city, Atlanta offers rich historical experiences like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and the Atlanta History Center. It’s a great hub for exploring nearby destinations.
Main Sights to Explore:
- Civil Rights History: Birmingham, Alabama, and Atlanta have significant Civil Rights Movement history. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Atlanta Civil Rights Museum are key places to visit.
- Plantations and Slavery History: Sites like Magnolia Plantation in Charleston or the Whitney Plantation in Louisiana provide insights into the plantation economy and slavery history.
- Music and Culture: New Orleans, Memphis, and Nashville are famous for their music history—New Orleans for jazz, Memphis for blues and rock ‘n’ roll, and Nashville for country music.
Preferred Route:
- Start your trip in New Orleans for 4-5 days. After exploring the French Quarter, you can take a Greyhound bus or Amtrak train to your next stop. New Orleans has a well-connected public transport system.
- From New Orleans, head east to Savannah and Charleston. They are only a few hours apart by bus (roughly 4-5 hours each). You can take a bus or a train (Amtrak) between these cities to save money.
- After Charleston, travel north to Atlanta (about 5 hours by bus) or head to Memphis. Buses and Amtrak also offer affordable travel options between cities.
- Lastly, you could go up to Nashville for a couple of days to explore more of the music culture before heading back to your departure city.
Transportation Options:
- Buses: Greyhound, Megabus, and other bus lines provide affordable transportation between major cities in the South. You can often find great deals, especially if you book in advance.
- Trains: Amtrak offers routes between many Southern cities, including New Orleans, Atlanta, and Memphis. While slower than buses, the trains are comfortable and provide scenic views.
- Public Transit: Once in the cities, use local public transportation systems. New Orleans has the streetcar, and Savannah and Charleston are very walkable. In Atlanta, MARTA provides a good metro and bus system.
- Walking Tours: Many of these Southern cities are known for their walkable historic districts, so be prepared to explore on foot. Walking tours are an excellent way to dive deep into the local history and culture.
Other Useful Tips:
- Stay in Budget Accommodations: Look for affordable options like hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels. Many cities also offer Airbnb options, which can be cheaper than hotels.
- Free and Low-Cost Attractions: Many historic sites and museums in the South offer free or low-cost entry. Many Civil War and Civil Rights sites, like the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, have discounted days or special pricing.
- Pack for the Weather: September in the South can be hot and humid, especially in cities like New Orleans and Charleston. Bring lightweight, breathable clothes, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Be Prepared for Storms: September is also hurricane season, so it's good to check the weather and have contingency plans in case of any storms or disruptions.

In conclusion, the Southern US offers rich history and unique cultural experiences that align perfectly with your interests. By focusing on the cities listed above, you’ll be able to experience the best of the region, and with careful planning, you can keep costs down without sacrificing the experience. Have an amazing trip!

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