New Orleans to Memphis Road Trip Itinerary

14 Jun 2026Updated last time

New Orleans to Memphis Road Trip Overview

This Southern road trip takes you from the festive streets of New Orleans to the music-rich city of Memphis, linking together some of the most memorable destinations in Louisiana and Mississippi. Begin in New Orleans, where jazz, Creole flavors, and historic neighborhoods create an unforgettable start. Continue to Baton Rouge for river views, state history, and a lively local food scene, then head to Natchez, a charming Mississippi River town known for its grand historic homes and atmospheric streets.

As the journey continues, Vicksburg adds a powerful historical dimension with its Civil War landmarks and riverfront setting. Jackson offers important cultural stops, especially for travelers interested in museums, civil rights history, and Mississippi arts. Farther north, Tupelo brings a lighter musical stop with its connection to Elvis Presley and small-city Southern charm. The trip concludes in Memphis, where barbecue, blues, soul, and rock and roll come together in one of America’s great music capitals.

Along the way, this itinerary blends history, architecture, regional cuisine, and iconic music heritage into one rewarding drive. It is an ideal route for travelers who want to experience the depth of the Deep South through scenic roads, meaningful landmarks, and cities with strong local character.


Recommended Activities

  • 1

    New Orleans, LA

    Known for its vibrant music scene, unique Creole cuisine, and historic architecture, New Orleans offers a rich cultural experience with events like Mardi Gras and places like the French Quarter.
  • 2

    Baton Rouge, LA

    As Louisiana's capital, Baton Rouge features a blend of political history and cultural attractions, including the beautiful State Capitol building and the lively riverfront area.
  • Situated along the Mississippi River, Natchez is known for its well-preserved antebellum homes and historic sites, offering a glimpse into the Old South's history and architecture.
  • 4

    Vicksburg, MS

    Vicksburg is famous for its significant Civil War history, highlighted by the Vicksburg National Military Park, which offers visitors a chance to explore preserved battlefields and learn about the Siege of Vicksburg.
  • As Mississippi's capital, Jackson boasts a diverse array of museums, such as the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, enriching visitors with its deep historical and cultural narratives.
  • Tupelo is best known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, and visitors can explore his childhood home and museum to learn more about the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
  • Memphis is renowned for its influential music history, being home to iconic locations like Graceland, Sun Studio, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, as well as its famous barbecue cuisine.

Restaurants

  • Picture for The Carousel Bar & Lounge - New Orleans, LA

    The Carousel Bar & Lounge - New Orleans, LA

    214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
    Located in New Orleans, this bar is famous for its slowly rotating carousel, offering unique ambiance while enjoying classic cocktails.
  • Picture for The Chimes Restaurant & Tap Room

    The Chimes Restaurant & Tap Room

    3357 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States
    Situated in Baton Rouge, this restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer selection, featuring Southern classics with a twist.
    4.4
    $$$$
  • Picture for Mammy's Cupboard

    Mammy's Cupboard

    555 US-61, Natchez, MS 39120, USA
    Just outside Natchez, this quirky restaurant is housed in a giant mammy-shaped building, offering Southern comfort food beneath the innovative structure.
    4.1
  • Picture for Rusty's Riverfront Grill

    Rusty's Riverfront Grill

    901 Washington St, Vicksburg, MS 39183, USA
    Located in Vicksburg, this spot combines casual dining with a view of the Mississippi River, known for its fresh seafood and relaxed vibe.
    4.6
    $$$$
  • Picture for The Neon Pig Cafe

    The Neon Pig Cafe

    1203 N Gloster St f, Tupelo, MS 38804, United States
    In Tupelo, this eatery offers a unique take on burgers, famed for its Smash Burger made from fresh local ingredients and served in a vibrant setting.
    4.5
    $$$$

Hotels

  • The Pontchartrain Hotel - New Orleans, Louisiana

    2031 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

    Located in New Orleans, this historic hotel offers a blend of vintage charm and modern luxury, with a rooftop bar providing stunning views of the city skyline.
  • Nottoway Plantation & Resort

    31025 LA-1, White Castle, LA 70788, United States

    Situated near Baton Rouge, this grand antebellum mansion offers a unique lodging experience with historic tours and beautiful gardens.
  • Monmouth Historic Inn

    1358 John A Quitman Blvd, Natchez, MS 39120, United States

    In Natchez, this early 19th-century mansion offers Southern elegance, expansive gardens, and a glimpse into the region's storied past.
  • Duff Green Mansion, Vicksburg

    1114 1st E St, Vicksburg, MS 39183, United States

    Located in Vicksburg, this Civil War-era mansion offers a unique stay with period furnishings and tales of its historical significance.
  • The Peabody Memphis - Memphis, Tennessee

    149 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, United States

    Famous for its marching ducks, this luxurious downtown Memphis hotel combines elegance and entertainment, making it a memorable stay.

Local Events & Happenings

  • Picture for Ashley McBryde

    Ashley McBryde

    Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson (10.38 mi)12 Jun 2026
    The event will take place at Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson.
  • Picture for Tre Floyd's Black Girl Therapy - A Stage Play

    Tre Floyd's Black Girl Therapy - A Stage Play

    Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson (10.38 mi)25 Oct 2026
    Every girl has a number. Do you know yours? Six black girls, strangers to each other, go to a group therapy session. They may be strangers going in but they'll never be the same coming out. The therapist has each girl to choose her number which will ...
  • Picture for Desi Banks: Your Favorite Cousin

    Desi Banks: Your Favorite Cousin

    Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson (10.38 mi)21 Nov 2026
    The event will take place at Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson.
  • Picture for Akeem Ali - The Texture Tour

    Akeem Ali - The Texture Tour

    Hal & Mal's in Jackson (10.71 mi)8 Oct 2026
    The event will take place at Hal & Mal's in Jackson.
  • Picture for Ali Siddiq: The Custom Fit Tour

    Ali Siddiq: The Custom Fit Tour

    Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson (11.2 mi)14 Jun 2026
    The event will take place at Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson.
  • Picture for United in Song: A Mississippi America250 Celebration

    United in Song: A Mississippi America250 Celebration

    Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson (11.2 mi)20 Jun 2026
    America250 Mississippi Commission?s premier celebration event is United in Song. On June 20, 2026, Mississippians will come together at the Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson for United in Song: A Mississippi America250 Celebration?a powerful musical tr...
  • Picture for Eddie 9V w/ The Bailey Bros

    Eddie 9V w/ The Bailey Bros

    Duling Hall in Jackson (11.41 mi)30 May 2026
    The event will take place at Duling Hall in Jackson.

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