There are some things that are very distinctly American – apple pie, bald eagles, monster truck rallies, and the road trip. Packing up the car and hitting the open road is a great American tradition. In a country as big as the US, there are plenty of options. A west coast road trip can bring you to some amazing national parks, while an east coast trip visits some of the countries greatest cities. This time, we’re heading out on a great southern road trip.

Nashville

Welcome to Music City!

Our trip starts in the capital of Tennessee. Also know as Music City, Nashville is the home of country music. Here you can visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry. There are also tons of music venues big and small where you can catch a show. Make sure you try the local specialty of hot chicken while you’re here. Just be warned – even medium is really hot!

Asheville

The Biltmore Estate

Next up, head to the Asheville. It’s located in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. Be sure to visit the Biltmore Estate, which is the largest home in America. Asheville also has plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, from hiking, to tubing, to disc golf. It’s definitely a Beer City, so pay a visit to one of the many breweries here.

Atlanta

Tour Atlanta with the City Pass.

After spending a few days in the mountains, it’s time to go to one of the biggest cities in the south. Also known as Hotlanta or simply The A, there’s lots to do here to keep you busy. With a City Pass, you can visit the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium, and the Inside CNN Studio Tour, among others. The city also hosts lots of events and festivals throughout the year and is home to a few professional sports teams.

New Orleans

Jackson Square in NOLA.

Our next stop is often referred to as The Big Easy. New Orleans is one of the most visited cities in the US, drawing millions of visitors every year who come here for the cuisine, music, and wild nightlife. In addition to partying it up on Bourbon Street, you can explore City Park, take a walking tour of the Garden District, and ride the city’s historic streetcars. If you feel like getting crazy, consider visiting during Mardi Gras.

Austin

Deep in the heart of Texas.

Our great southern road trip ends in the Live Music Capital of the World. That’s what many call Austin, which also happens to be the capital of Texas. From the huge festivals of South by Southwest and Austin City Limits to tiny hole-in-the-wall venues, this town is always rocking. You can also get outside and enjoy the great outdoors – hiking, swimming, hot springs, and more. Don’t leave town without trying the BBQ, as it’s some of the best in the country.

For this trip, it’s best to spend at least 2-3 days in each city. You should also add a travel day in between each one. It’s possible to drive the whole way, but that would include a few really long drives that you would probably want to split up. All cities are also hooked up by air and bus travel. This makes for a great tour of the southern United States and a trip you’ll never forget!