Ultimate Southern Road Trip: Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans

Day 1: Arrive in Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee on April 22, 2025

12:00PM

Check-in to Hotel

Get settled into your accommodation. Consider the Grad Hotel for its unique blend of Southern charm and modern amenities.
USD150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hattie B's Chicken

Enjoy some of Nashville's famous hot chicken at this beloved local spot. Their spicy chicken sandwich is a must-try.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Country Music Hall of Fame

Explore the history of country music in this extensive museum that features exhibits on the genre's biggest stars.
USD28, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll down Broadway

Wander through the vibrant streets filled with live music and unique shops. Don't forget to stop by the famous Tootsies Orchid Lounge.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pub Nashville

Try their fish and chips or shepherd's pie, all in a relaxed pub atmosphere.
USD25, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Nashville Exploration

Nashville, Tennessee on April 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with some legendary pancakes. Their sweet potato pancakes are a crowd favorite.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Parthenon

Check out the full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon, which hosts an art museum featuring 19th and 20th-century American art.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Listening Room Cafe

Enjoy a delicious meal while listening to local artists perform original songs right in front of you.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore 12 South District

Walk through this vibrant neighborhood filled with unique shops, restaurants, and beautiful street art.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tour of Belle Meade Plantation

Discover the history of this historic plantation known for its thoroughbred horses and a fascinating winery.
USD20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Merchants

Experience Southern cuisine at its finest with options like fried catfish and shrimp and grits.
USD30, 1.5 hours

Day 3: More Nashville Highlights

Nashville, Tennessee on April 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Love

Sample some of Nashville's best biscuits. Their 'Bonuts' (biscuit-doughnuts) are a delightful treat.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tour of the Ryman Auditorium

Explore this historic music venue known as the 'Mother Church of Country Music.'
USD25, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Johnny Cash Museum

Delve into the life of the legendary Johnny Cash with exhibits and memorabilia.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant

Enjoy classic Southern dishes in a casual atmosphere. Their BBQ is particularly noteworthy.
USD18, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Frist Art Museum

Enjoy a range of visual art exhibits in this beautifully restored art deco building.
USD15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Capitol Grille

Savor a fine dining experience featuring dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
USD50, 2 hours

Day 4: Morning Adventure & Head to Memphis

Nashville, Tennessee on April 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Pantry

Indulge in a hearty breakfast before checking out. Their unique pancake varieties will not disappoint.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check out of Hotel

Prepare for your drive to Memphis. Don’t forget to grab any last-minute souvenirs.
Free, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Drive to Memphis

Enjoy the scenic drive through Tennessee on your way to Memphis.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Check-in to Hotel in Memphis

Settle into your hotel. The Peabody Memphis is known for its charming Duck March.
USD180, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Graceland

Explore the home of Elvis Presley and see his iconic outfits and memorabilia.
USD45, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Central BBQ

Experience Memphis-style BBQ with a great variety of meats and sides.
USD20, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Discover Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee on April 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Arcade Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Southern breakfast at the city’s oldest cafe, known for its nostalgic decor.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

National Civil Rights Museum

Visit this riveting museum located at the Lorraine Motel, providing an in-depth look at the Civil Rights Movement.
USD16, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Indulge in some of the best fried chicken in the country at this local favorite.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Sun Studio Tour

Discover the birthplace of rock 'n' roll on this guided tour where legends recorded their hits.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Dive into the rich history of soul music in this expansive museum dedicated to Stax Records.
USD13, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Rendezvous

Famous for its dry-rubbed ribs and a true Memphis institution.
USD30, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Explore Memphis & Drive to New Orleans

Memphis, Tennessee on April 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Itta Bena

Enjoy a New Orleans-inspired breakfast at this upscale restaurant above B.B. King's Blues Club.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check out of Hotel

Get ready for the drive to New Orleans. Make sure you pack up and grab your belongings.
Free, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Drive to New Orleans

Enjoy the picturesque drive from Memphis, relishing the change in scenery.
Free, 6 hours

5:00PM

Check-in to Hotel in New Orleans

Arrive and settle in. Consider the Hotel Monteleone for its luxurious atmosphere and prime location.
USD200, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Cochon

Savor authentic Cajun Southern cooking at this acclaimed restaurant in the warehouse district.
USD35, 2 hours

Day 7: Experience New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana on April 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café du Monde

Start your day with their famous beignets and café au lait in the heart of the French Quarter.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the French Market

Explore this bustling market selling local produce, arts, and crafts, perfect for souvenirs.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mother’s Restaurant

Don’t miss their famous po'boys and jambalaya, a local favorite for lunch.
USD18, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Jackson Square

Take in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic park, surrounded by artists and musicians.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit St. Louis Cathedral

Explore this architectural masterpiece, the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the U.S.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at NOLA Restaurant

Enjoy an innovative take on Creole cuisine at this celebrated restaurant owned by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse.
USD45, 2 hours

Day 8: Unwind in New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana on April 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ruby Slipper Café

This popular brunch spot offers a local twist on your morning favorites. Try the 'Bayou Bloody Mary.'
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Swamp Tour

Experience the wildlife and scenery of Louisiana’s unique wetlands on an exhilarating boat tour.
USD70, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Amelie

Dine in a beautiful courtyard setting with Cajun and Creole dishes that are as delicious as they are visually stunning.
USD22, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Garden District

Enjoy a scenic walk through this beautiful neighborhood known for its historic mansions and lush gardens.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Frenchmen Street

Experience the vibrant nightlife scene with live music spots lined up along this lively street.
Free, Evening

7:00PM

Dinner at GW Fins

Specializing in seafood, this restaurant offers fresh and tasty dishes that showcase local ingredients.
USD50, 2 hours

Day 9: Departure Day

New Orleans, Louisiana on April 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Beignet

Enjoy their delicious breakfast options and beignets before heading out. A cozy spot in the French Quarter.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check out of Hotel

Make sure to pack your bags and have everything in check before heading to the airport.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Airport Transfer

Head to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport for your flight back home.
USD30, 1 hour

Day 10: Travel Home

Oakland, California on May 1, 2025

N/A

Flight Back to Oakland

Board your flight from New Orleans, reflecting on the wonderful memories made during your Southern adventure.
Varies, N/A