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

Road Trip from Charleston, WV to New Orleans

Road Trip from Charleston, WV to New Orleans, LA

Embark on an exciting road trip starting from the picturesque capital of West Virginia, Charleston. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Charleston is a delightful mix of history, culture, and nature, offering attractions like the West Virginia State Museum and the scenic Kanawha State Forest. As you journey southwest, make your first stop in Lexington, KY, the heart of the Bluegrass region. Famous for its celebrated horse farms and rich equestrian culture, Lexington also invites you to sample its vibrant bourbon trail and charming downtown.

Continue your adventure to Nashville, TN, known worldwide as the Music City. Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of country music, visit iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium, and explore the city's lively neighborhoods that are filled with innovative eateries and vibrant nightlife. From Nashville, head further south to Birmingham, AL, a city steeped in civil rights history. Discover the profound legacy at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and enjoy the city's burgeoning arts scene and delightful southern cuisine.

Next, visit Hattiesburg, MS, a quaint city known for its friendly hospitality, historic architecture, and the beautiful grounds of the University of Southern Mississippi. Finally, reach the vibrant city of New Orleans, LA, a cultural melting pot famous for its unique Creole culture, historic French Quarter, jazz music, and iconic cuisine. Experience the rhythm of the streets, take part in its famous festive atmosphere, and relish the unique flavors that define this magical city.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Charleston, WV

    Charleston offers a charming blend of Appalachian culture, history, and outdoor activities with attractions like the beautiful Capitol Market and Kanawha State Forest.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin2

    Lexington, KY

    Known as the 'Horse Capital of the World', Lexington is famous for its horse farms and Keeneland Race Course, as well as its bourbon distilleries and vibrant arts scene.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Nashville, TN

    Nashville is a must-visit for its legendary music scene, historic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, and its bustling nightlife and culinary offerings.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Birmingham, AL

    Birmingham is rich in civil rights history, with important sites like the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and offers a variety of cultural and culinary experiences.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Hattiesburg, MS

    Hattiesburg is known for its charming historic district, beautiful parks, and the University of Southern Mississippi, making it a vibrant stop with Southern hospitality.
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin6

    New Orleans, LA

    New Orleans is famous for its vibrant festivals like Mardi Gras, historic French Quarter, jazz music, unique cuisine, and a rich melting pot of cultures.
    Open Google Maps Button

Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    Company's Comin' Tearoom & Café

    4.9
    $$$$

    Company's Comin' Tearoom & Café

    Located in Charleston, WV, this quaint tearoom offers a charming and cozy atmosphere with an array of homemade dishes and delightful afternoon teas.
    4.9
    $$$$
    Picture for Company's Comin' Tearoom & Café
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Village Idiot

    The Village Idiot

    In Lexington, KY, this gastropub is known for its eclectic menu and rustic vibe, set in a historic building that provides a unique dining experience.
    Picture for The Village Idiot
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Loveless Café

    4.6
    $$$$

    The Loveless Café

    Just outside of Nashville, TN, this iconic eatery is famous for its Southern style biscuits and home-cooked meals, offering a genuine taste of Tennessee hospitality.
    4.6
    $$$$
    Picture for The Loveless Café
  • Restaurant Icon

    Saw's Soul Kitchen

    9
    $$$$

    Saw's Soul Kitchen

    Located in Birmingham, AL, Saw's Soul Kitchen provides a unique twist on traditional southern barbecue and soul food, in a lively and casual setting.
    9
    $$$$
    Picture for Saw's Soul Kitchen
  • Restaurant Icon

    The Ruby Slipper Café

    4.6
    $$$$

    The Ruby Slipper Café

    In New Orleans, LA, this café is known for its creative brunch menu and vibrant décor, offering a fresh take on traditional Southern and New Orleans-inspired dishes.
    4.6
    $$$$
    Picture for The Ruby Slipper Café

Stay Recommendations

  • Hotel Icon

    The Brass Pineapple Inn

    4.6

    The Brass Pineapple Inn

    Located in Charleston, WV, this charming bed and breakfast offers a Victorian-style atmosphere with personalized service and cozy rooms.
    4.6
    Picture for The Brass Pineapple Inn
  • Hotel Icon

    The 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

    The 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

    This boutique hotel in Lexington, KY, combines contemporary design with a modern art museum, providing an inspiring and cultural lodging experience.
    Picture for The 21c Museum Hotel Lexington
  • Hotel Icon

    The Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, TN

    4.7

    The Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, TN

    Situated in Nashville, TN, The Hermitage Hotel is renowned for its luxurious interiors, rich history, and top-notch service, located in a beautifully preserved historic building.
    4.7
    Picture for The Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, TN
  • Hotel Icon

    The Redmont Hotel, Birmingham

    4.2

    The Redmont Hotel, Birmingham

    As Alabama's oldest hotel, located in Birmingham, it offers a blend of historical elegance and modern amenities, providing a unique cultural experience.
    4.2
    Picture for The Redmont Hotel, Birmingham
  • Hotel Icon

    The Hotel Peter and Paul

    4.7

    The Hotel Peter and Paul

    Set in a former church and school in New Orleans, LA, this hotel offers a one-of-a-kind stay with its stunning architecture and beautifully curated interiors.
    4.7
    Picture for The Hotel Peter and Paul

Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Warm Up Watchers Game 11

    Warm Up Watchers Game 11

    The event will take place at Joe Davis Stadium in Huntsville.
    Map IconJoe Davis Stadium in Huntsville (7.35 mi)
    Calendar Icon17 Aug 2025
    Picture for Warm Up Watchers Game 11
  • Event Icon

    Warm Up Watchers Game 12

    Warm Up Watchers Game 12

    The event will take place at Joe Davis Stadium in Huntsville.
    Map IconJoe Davis Stadium in Huntsville (7.35 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Sep 2025
    Picture for Warm Up Watchers Game 12
  • Event Icon

    Warm Up Watchers Game 13

    Warm Up Watchers Game 13

    The event will take place at Joe Davis Stadium in Huntsville.
    Map IconJoe Davis Stadium in Huntsville (7.35 mi)
    Calendar Icon29 Sep 2025
    Picture for Warm Up Watchers Game 13
  • Event Icon

    Warm Up Watchers Game 14

    Warm Up Watchers Game 14

    The event will take place at Joe Davis Stadium in Huntsville.
    Map IconJoe Davis Stadium in Huntsville (7.35 mi)
    Calendar Icon5 Oct 2025
    Picture for Warm Up Watchers Game 14
  • Event Icon

    Marshall the Mascot

    Marshall the Mascot

    The event will take place at Joe Davis Stadium in Huntsville.
    Map IconJoe Davis Stadium in Huntsville (7.35 mi)
    Calendar Icon2 Dec 2025
    Picture for Marshall the Mascot
  • Event Icon

    2025 Video Board Shoutouts

    2025 Video Board Shoutouts

    The event will take place at Joe Davis Stadium in Huntsville.
    Map IconJoe Davis Stadium in Huntsville (7.35 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Jan 2026
    Picture for 2025 Video Board Shoutouts
  • Event Icon

    Galaxy Birthday Bundle Add On

    Galaxy Birthday Bundle Add On

    The event will take place at Joe Davis Stadium in Huntsville.
    Map IconJoe Davis Stadium in Huntsville (7.35 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Jan 2026
    Picture for Galaxy Birthday Bundle Add On

Travel Gems from Reddit


Music for Your Journey