Photo of AI-Magellan
16 Mar 2025Updated last time
Edit Trip Edit
Bookmark TripSave

New Orleans to Memphis Road Trip Itinerary

New Orleans to Memphis Road Trip Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey from New Orleans to Memphis, exploring the cultural, historical, and musical roots of the American South. Start your adventure in New Orleans, LA, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene, unique Creole cuisine, and historic architecture. Experience the lively French Quarter and immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms of jazz and blues.

Travel north to Baton Rouge, LA, the state capital, where you can discover a blend of political history and cultural attractions, including the imposing State Capitol building and the bustling riverfront area. Continue your journey to Natchez, MS, nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River. Here, step back in time as you explore well-preserved antebellum homes and charming historic sites.

Next, visit Vicksburg, MS, a city steeped in Civil War history. Tour the Vicksburg National Military Park and delve into the stories of the Siege of Vicksburg. In Jackson, MS, the state's capital, explore museums like the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, and gain insight into the region’s cultural narrative.

As you head towards your final destination, stop in Tupelo, MS, the birthplace of Elvis Presley, where you can visit his childhood home and associated museum. Conclude your trip in Memphis, TN, a city synonymous with music. Discover Graceland, Sun Studio, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, while savoring the city's legendary barbecue cuisine.

This road trip promises to provide a rich tapestry of experiences, celebrating the deeply ingrained history, culture, and music that define the Southern United States.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    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.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin2

    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.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Natchez, MS

    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.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    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.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Jackson, MS

    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.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • 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.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin7

    Memphis, TN

    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.
    Open Google Maps Button

Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Carousel Bar & Lounge - New Orleans, LA

    The Carousel Bar & Lounge - New Orleans, LA

    Located in New Orleans, this bar is famous for its slowly rotating carousel, offering unique ambiance while enjoying classic cocktails.
    Picture for The Carousel Bar & Lounge - New Orleans, LA
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Chimes Restaurant & Tap Room

    4.4
    $$$$

    The Chimes Restaurant & Tap Room

    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 The Chimes Restaurant & Tap Room
  • Restaurant Icon

    Mammy's Cupboard

    4.1

    Mammy's Cupboard

    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 Mammy's Cupboard
  • Restaurant Icon

    Rusty's Riverfront Grill

    4.3
    $$$$

    Rusty's Riverfront Grill

    Located in Vicksburg, this spot combines casual dining with a view of the Mississippi River, known for its fresh seafood and relaxed vibe.
    4.3
    $$$$
    Picture for Rusty's Riverfront Grill
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Neon Pig Cafe

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Neon Pig Cafe

    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
    $$$$
    Picture for The Neon Pig Cafe

Stay Recommendations

  • Hotel Icon

    The Pontchartrain Hotel - New Orleans, Louisiana

    4.5

    The Pontchartrain Hotel - New Orleans, Louisiana

    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.
    4.5
    Picture for The Pontchartrain Hotel - New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Hotel Icon

    Nottoway Plantation & Resort

    4.5

    Nottoway Plantation & Resort

    Situated near Baton Rouge, this grand antebellum mansion offers a unique lodging experience with historic tours and beautiful gardens.
    4.5
    Picture for Nottoway Plantation & Resort
  • Hotel Icon

    Monmouth Historic Inn

    Monmouth Historic Inn

    In Natchez, this early 19th-century mansion offers Southern elegance, expansive gardens, and a glimpse into the region's storied past.
    Picture for Monmouth Historic Inn
  • Hotel Icon

    Duff Green Mansion, Vicksburg

    4.7

    Duff Green Mansion, Vicksburg

    Located in Vicksburg, this Civil War-era mansion offers a unique stay with period furnishings and tales of its historical significance.
    4.7
    Picture for Duff Green Mansion, Vicksburg
  • Hotel Icon

    The Peabody Memphis - Memphis, Tennessee

    4.5

    The Peabody Memphis - Memphis, Tennessee

    Famous for its marching ducks, this luxurious downtown Memphis hotel combines elegance and entertainment, making it a memorable stay.
    4.5
    Picture for The Peabody Memphis - Memphis, Tennessee

Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    HBCU Labor Day Classic: Battle of the Bands

    HBCU Labor Day Classic: Battle of the Bands

    The event will take place at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson.
    Map IconMississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson (9.53 mi)
    Calendar Icon31 Aug 2025
    Picture for HBCU Labor Day Classic: Battle of the Bands
  • Event Icon

    Montell Jordan & All-4-One

    Montell Jordan & All-4-One

    The event will take place at Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson.
    Map IconMississippi Coliseum in Jackson (11.2 mi)
    Calendar Icon3 Oct 2025
    Picture for Montell Jordan & All-4-One
  • Event Icon

    Cory Asbury

    Cory Asbury

    The event will take place at Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson.
    Map IconMississippi Coliseum in Jackson (11.2 mi)
    Calendar Icon5 Oct 2025
    Picture for Cory Asbury
  • Event Icon

    Maddie & Tae

    Maddie & Tae

    The event will take place at Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson.
    Map IconMississippi Coliseum in Jackson (11.2 mi)
    Calendar Icon10 Oct 2025
    Picture for Maddie & Tae
  • Event Icon

    The Blues Is Alright Tour

    The Blues Is Alright Tour

    The Blues Is Alright Tour comes to Mississippi Coliseum on Friday, October 17 at 8:00 p.m. The Blues is musical storytelling filled with stark emotion and a revolving reality check. It?s authentically raw; transforming tragedy, adversity and heartach...
    Map IconMississippi Coliseum in Jackson (11.2 mi)
    Calendar Icon18 Oct 2025
    Picture for The Blues Is Alright Tour
  • Event Icon

    Yot Club

    Yot Club

    For decades the bright lights of New York have drawn artists to its storied city streets those seeking their tribe, those looking to solidify their identity, and those hungry for inspiration and fresh encounters, all there for the taking on this new,...
    Map IconDuling Hall in Jackson (11.41 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Aug 2025
    Picture for Yot Club
  • Event Icon

    Jrblu

    Jrblu

    JRBlu is an American singer, songwriter and record producer. JRBlu has helped to shape the sound called "NEW OLD SCHOOL". Bright and energetic, this new artist and performer has combined a soulful, sultry sound with pulsating lyrics and driving melod...
    Map IconDuling Hall in Jackson (11.41 mi)
    Calendar Icon16 Aug 2025
    Picture for Jrblu

Travel Gems from Reddit


Music for Your Journey