7 Essential Southern Stops on the Atlanta to New Orleans Road Trip

The road from Atlanta to New Orleans serves up a perfect sampler platter of Southern culture, history and hospitality. This isn’t your typical interstate sprint, it’s a journey through hidden gardens, historic battleships, and tiny towns where country music legends were born. From Auburn’s famous lemonade to Mobile’s military might, each stop tells a different chapter of the Deep South story. Pack your sense of adventure and some comfortable walking shoes, because these seven stops will transform your drive into an unforgettable road trip experience.

Hills & Dales Estate – LaGrange, GA

Step into one of America’s finest historic homes where the 1916 Callaway family estate flows seamlessly into gardens that have been cultivated for over 180 years. You’ll be amazed by the 2.5 acres of formal English boxwood parterres, including some uniquely pruned to spell words like “G O D” and “Fiat Justicia.” The estate offers both guided house tours and self-guided garden walks, with a convenient shuttle from the visitor center if you’d rather not walk the scenic 10-minute woodland path. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the tables or on a blanket in the gardens, since there aren’t any concessions on-site. Don’t miss the curved bench in the sunken garden, where a secret love story unfolded between Alice Hand and Fuller Callaway Jr. Check their calendar for special events like Wellness Wednesdays featuring yoga and herb walks, or the Founder’s Day Celebration with complimentary tours and lemonade.

The Hound – Auburn, AL

This isn’t your typical college town eatery, The Hound creates a warm hunting lodge atmosphere that’s become a haven for adults seeking exceptional bacon and top-shelf bourbon. Their wall of bourbon is impressive, and you absolutely must try their signature Bacon & Bourbon cocktail or explore their creative drink menu. Weekend brunch (served until 2 PM on Saturdays and Sundays) gets packed, so arrive early or be prepared to wait for favorites like Huevos Houndcheros or their renowned shrimp and grits. Dinner brings hearty Southern comfort with their popular meatloaf and chicken & dumplings. Executive Chef Robbie Nicolaisen has earned the restaurant features in Southern Living and on the Cooking Channel, with some staff members even competing on Food Network shows. The focus on bacon, bourbon, family, and community creates an atmosphere that embodies true Southern hospitality.

Toomer’s Drugs – Auburn, AL

You can’t visit Auburn without stopping at this legendary establishment that’s been serving fresh-squeezed lemonade since 1896. Get your lemonade in various sizes and flavors, as a slushie, or take home a gallon jug or Mason jar of this liquid gold that’s been praised by Esquire magazine and the Alabama Tourism Department. While you’re there, learn about the famous “Rolling Toomer’s Corner” tradition where fans throw toilet paper into the trees after Auburn victories, a celebration that supposedly started with employees tossing telegraph ticker tape. The store now functions primarily as an Auburn memorabilia shop, but you can still enjoy Bluebell ice cream at the old-fashioned soda fountain counter. Founded by former Auburn football player and state representative Sheldon Toomer, this is the oldest continuously operating business in Auburn. On game days, both Auburn fans and rivals gather here to soak up the atmosphere and share in the lemonade tradition.

Civil Rights Memorial Center – Montgomery, AL

Maya Lin’s powerful granite fountain memorial honors 41 people who gave their lives during the Civil Rights Movement from 1955 to 1968. Water flows continuously over the inscribed names, inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous words about justice rolling down like waters. The interpretive center connects historical struggles to contemporary social justice through exhibits like the Martyr Room and massive interactive video murals featuring firsthand accounts. Located in downtown Montgomery, the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, you’re within walking distance of other significant sites like Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church and the Rosa Parks Library and Museum. The memorial itself is accessible 24/7, while the center opens Tuesday-Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM (last entry at 4:15 PM), with affordable admission at $5 for adults and $2 for children. Visit on Juneteenth for free admission and take time to engage with the Wall of Justice and digital kiosks highlighting current activism across the nation.

Hank Williams’ Boyhood Home & Museum – Georgiana, AL

Visit the only surviving childhood home of country music legend Hank Williams at 127 Rose Street, where he lived from ages 6 to 14. This modest house is where young Hank received his first guitar and learned his initial chords from Rufus “Tee-Tot” Payne, a local black street performer who profoundly influenced his musical style. The museum showcases fascinating artifacts including a letter Hank wrote to his mother at 17, photos of his first band The Drifting Cowboys, and his personal glasses. You’ll see a steel guitar crafted by Pappy Neal McCormick, one of only two in the U.S. and notably played by Elvis Presley. Plus a replica of the blue Cadillac Hank died in and one of his suits. Learn personal details about the man behind the music, like how his love for cowboy movies influenced his name change from Hiram to Hank. If you’re planning a June visit, check out their annual festival featuring both established and local artists celebrating Hank’s legacy.

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park – Mobile, AL

Prepare to spend at least two hours exploring the USS Alabama battleship and USS Drum submarine, both WWII veterans with incredible combat records. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Flip-flops won’t cut it when you’re climbing ladders and navigating tight quarters through gun turrets and ship compartments. The Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion houses an impressive collection including a rare CIA A-12 Oxcart and helicopters used by U.S. Presidents. Living History Crew volunteers in WWII Navy uniforms bring the experience to life with weapons demonstrations and drill performances on scheduled days. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the picnic tables since you’ll want to maximize your time exploring the tanks, artillery, and Redstone ballistic missile displayed throughout the park. Film buffs will recognize the USS Alabama from movies like “Under Siege,” adding another layer of interest to your visit.

Davis Bayou – Ocean Springs, MS

This lesser-known gem of Gulf Islands National Seashore offers a peaceful escape with freshwater and salt marshes perfect for spotting some of the 280+ bird species identified here. Start at the William M. Colmer Visitor Center to watch the park film and get oriented before hitting the two-mile Davis Bayou Trail through coastal forest. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line from the designated pier (Mississippi State Saltwater Fishing License required), while boaters can launch into the bayous and Mississippi Sound. If you’re camping, the Davis Bayou Campground accommodates both tents and RVs with water, electric hook-ups, and full restroom facilities. Important heads-up: swimming isn’t allowed anywhere in Davis Bayou, and while pets can join you on trails, they’re banned from all beaches within the National Seashore. Since there are no concessions or stores, bring everything you need for your visit, including food for the well-equipped picnic area with tables, grills, and pavilions.

The South, Truly Experienced

By the time you reach New Orleans, you’ll have collected more than just highway miles, you’ll have genuine Southern experiences that interstate travelers completely miss. You’ve touched history at the Civil Rights Memorial, explored WWII battleships, and tasted the South’s best bacon and bourbon. Now head into the Big Easy with a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of stories, flavors, and traditions that make the South such an incredible region to explore.