NOLA to Pensacola - fun stops

Question

After spending four days in NOLA, we will be driving to Pensacola without any specific timeline. I’ve heard Ocean Springs, MS is a cute place; any other stops along the way that we should consider?

Answer

That sounds like a fun road trip! Driving from New Orleans to Pensacola gives you a great opportunity to explore some charming towns and scenic stops along the Gulf Coast. I’ve got a few great recommendations for places to check out on your way.

As you mentioned, Ocean Springs, MS is definitely worth a stop. It’s a cute coastal town known for its art galleries, historic downtown, and lovely beaches. But here are some additional fun stops along the way to consider:

Bay St. Louis, MS – This small, charming town offers a laid-back atmosphere and is perfect for a quick stroll. You can walk around the historic district and enjoy the artsy shops, local restaurants, and views of the bay. It’s a great place to grab lunch and enjoy the local flavor.
Gulfport, MS – Gulfport is a bit bigger, but it has a lovely harbor area and beaches along the Gulf. The town offers attractions like the Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival (if you're traveling during the season) and the Mississippi Aquarium, which is a fun stop if you have kids or just love marine life.
Long Beach, MS – If you want to take in some scenic beach views without the crowds, Long Beach offers a peaceful and beautiful stretch of shoreline. It’s a good place to stretch your legs and enjoy some quiet time by the water.
Mobile, AL – Mobile is an interesting city with a rich history, and it’s home to some great museums. If you’re into history, you can visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park or take a walk through the historic district. Mobile also has a vibrant downtown with local shops and restaurants.
Theodore, AL – If you're into nature, Theodore is home to Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a beautiful 65-acre garden with a stunning variety of flowers and plants. It's a peaceful place to take a break and enjoy the southern flora.
Fairhope, AL – This picturesque town is known for its historic downtown and beautiful views of Mobile Bay. It has a lovely walking trail along the bay, art galleries, unique boutiques, and great places to grab coffee or lunch.
Elberta, AL – If you’re looking for a quirky stop, Elberta is home to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, which is a small but charming spot to visit. It’s also a great place to experience the small-town charm of coastal Alabama.

In addition to these towns, you might want to explore some of the beautiful beaches along the way. The Gulf Coast offers plenty of hidden gems with quiet stretches of sand where you can relax for a bit before getting back on the road.

Finally, Pensacola is a wonderful destination, so enjoy your time there! You’ll be arriving after a nice mix of scenic and interesting stops along the Gulf Coast. If you’re into taking things slow and discovering new places, these stops will give you a fantastic taste of what this region has to offer.

NOLA to Pensacola - fun stops

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