Planning a US Road Trip: The Southern Route

Along this route, you will pass through the states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama and Florida. In California, you'll pass through the metropolis of Los Angeles, and enter the arid desert region of Coachella Valley. Next, you'll enter the even drier and remote areas of Arizona and New Mexico and into western Texas. A long stretch on I-10 through Texas will bring you to the eastern side of Texas, as the humidity increases. Next is Lousiana's southern side, as well as a look at Missippi and Alabama's brief coastline. Finally, you'll reach the sun-filled Florida panhandle and Jacksonville.

Inserting side destinations off I-10 will make or break your trip. It's essential that you plan some fun things to do off of this main route! Think of I-10 merely as a roadway that you get back on between the really cool stuff, like the national parks, weird towns like Roswell, or the beautiful panhandle coastal cities. Plan as many destinations off I-10 as time will allow, like the Grand Canyon, a trip to Austin, Texas, a paddle boat tour of the Mississippi, or a jaunt over to historic Savannah, Georgia.

Your trip will start, if you are heading from east to west, in Jacksonville Florida for all intents and purposes. There are plenty of other starting points for a great southern road trip like any of the east coast destinations along I-95, the Midwest, or even New England. This itinerary will focus on, start to finish, Interstate 10 and all of the attractions, sights, National Parks, cities, and historical spots that are close by.

Florida | Alabama
Mississippi | Louisiana | Texas |
New Mexico | Arizona | California

Bay Co.Pier, Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach, FL Photo Print

I-10 begins in Jacksonville, Florida. The Interstate isn't the most scenic part of your ride through the panhandle, so you'll want to take some exits off the busy highway and see what lies ahead.

The city of Jacksonville is full of plenty of things to do and see, like the Jacksonville Zoo, Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, and Amelia Island which is about 20 miles away on the Georgia-Florida state border. While you're on the east coast, be sure to experience the Florida coast in all of its beauty. Visit here for more information on planning your Florida road trip.

Westward from Jacksonville, you'll chug along I-10, which runs in the middle of the Florida panhandle. From Jacksonville to Mobile, Alabama will take approximately 6.5 hours, or 404 miles. If you have the time, the Emerald Coast has some beautiful beaches worth visiting. Port St. Joe, Panama City Beach, Gulf Breeze, and Pensacola have some of the top rated beaches in the USA. To get there, take 373 south in Tallahassee to Highway 319. I-98 will take you along the entire Emerald Coast, and is amongst Florida's most scenic drives.

Dock, Mobile Bay Alabama Print

The coastline of Alabama is short and sweet. The city of Mobile lies at the head of Mobile Bay, which separates Alabama from Florida. In the center of the bay, you'll find the spectacular Dauphin Island.

Mobile contains the Museum of Mobile, the USS Battleship Alabama Memorial Park, and Mardi Gras celebrations annually. They were actually the first to do so!

Mobile's real attraction is its body of water, Mobile Bay, and the surrounding beaches. Delta excursions through the massive river delta, over twenty golf courses, and some of the south's best seafood restaurants are all within the Mobile Bay area. This is the perfect stopping point for the end of day one of your journey across I-10.

Mississippi is one of the hardest hit areas by Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill in 2010. The combined devastation of these two events, you would think, would entirely cripple the economy and tourism of the area... but it hasn't. Though tourism to the Gulf Coast isn't what it once was, things are starting to slowly return to normalcy. The beaches are open, the sights are still beautiful, and the region needs your tourism more than ever.

There are no large cities along the coast of Mississippi, but there are many small towns like Gulfport, Biloxi, and Long Beach that have historic homes, casinos, dining, and hotels along the shore. The shore here stretches for miles along the Gulf Coast, with seemingly endless views out into the Gulf of Mexico. On a sunny day, it is stunning. On a cloudy day, it's interesting and ominous (you can practically see storms forming before your eyes as you gaze out the open ocean).

White pelicans feed in the nutrient-rich waters of the Mississippi Delta

In southern Louisiana, it's Cajun country. The hospitality of the Cajun Coast only adds to the appeal of this favorite US travel destination. From the friendly waitstaff at restaurants to the eager bellhops at hotels in the French Quarter of New Orleans, it's a real treat to see life this slowed down and friendly.

The coast of Louisiana is immense, and vital to the entire country. The longest river in the United States empties into the Gulf of Mexico right in Louisiana's Mississippi River delta, which is the lifeblood of the entire state. Tributaries fuel the bayous, ponds, lagoons, and wind their way to the Mississippi itself. It all culminates south of New Orleans, one of the most vital ecosystems and migratory bird stops in the country. Paddleboat tours give a great glimpse into the importance of the river delta, while by car, you can tour much of the delta (or at least see it close up) by taking Highway 21 south to Venice. This is as close the Delta National Wildlife Refuge as you can get. If you'd like to see it further, you'll have to take a boat.

Heading back on I-10, you'll be edging closer to the state of Texas as you pass over more bayous, rivers, and small towns in Louisiana. I-10 stays mostly inland, but does pass through Lafayette and Lake Charles -- two towns that are the center of Cajun culture. Stop here for some authentic Cajun food like Nimbeaux's, Julien's, and the Blue Dog Cafe.

River Running through Rocks, Rio Grande, Big Bend National Park Photo Print

I-10 cuts a nearly exact horizontal line through the state of Texas. As you begin on the east side near Houston, you'll notice a shift in culture, economy, and climate. The east is much more populated than the west. San Antonio serves as the gateway to the western portion of Texas, with the scenery becoming jagged and mountainous just to the west.

In between San Antonio and El Paso, you won't find much. However, there are some sights to see off the interstate if you have the time to do so. Big Bend National Park is on the southwestern portion of the state, along the Rio Grande River. To the north, you'll find the beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park, which contains the highest peak in Texas.

Where should you stay in Texas? From personal experience, you'll want to stay in the major cities. Plan your day to end in Houston, San Antonio, or Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Soaptree Yucca, White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

I-10 in New Mexico can be a dramatic ride or a boring one, depending on your outlook. The scenery is much the same throughout the hundreds of miles of highway, and there are no major cities until you reach Tucson. Instead of looking at the dry desert environment as bleak, lifeless, and dead, instead, see the desert for what it really is, and take a closer look.

During the day, the white sands can be blinding, but as afternoon approaches, the setting sun brings brilliant colors that light up the landscape in pinks, oranges, purples, and browns. The nocturnal desert wildlife comes out to hunt or be hunted, and the stars illuminate the roadway. If you're looking for a true clear nighttime sky, New Mexico is where you'll find it. Those used to the light pollution of populated areas will be amazed at how the sky is truly supposed to look at night.

Road to Monument Valley, Arizona, Photo Print

The Grand Canyon state has much more to offer than just its namesake. In fact, a road trip to this state will prove to be on the most interesting on your entire journey down I-10. To the south, there are wild west towns like Tombstone and Nogales. North, there's much to see, including the red rocks of Sedona, the conifer lined hills of Flagstaff, and the man made beauty of Lake Mead.

Each section of the state has something different to offer. For more information on this area, read about the Grand Circle of the Southwest.

Finally, at the west coast: Santa Monica Pier, California, USA Photo Print

Your journey to the great state of California will terminate in Los Angeles, but there's so much more to see than just the freeway. Along I-10, the first major attraction is Coachella Valley. The towns of Palm Desert, Palm Springs, Indio, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, and Cathedral City comprise this hot desert region. It's known for its spectacular golf courses and mountainside homes, but also has some of the best restaurants, nightlife, and relaxation you can find in the entire state. This is definitely a place you'll want to stay a day, especially after being out on the open road all day.

West again on I-10 you will approach Riverside County and Orange County. The area is surrounded by several mountain ranges on all sides. The further west you drive, the cooler the temperature will get as you head away from the blistering heat of Coachella Valley. Temperatures become moderate once you reach the coast.

Once in the Los Angeles area, you'll have thousands of sightseeing opportunities, and just as many places to stay. Towns with renowned accomodations include Newport, Laguna Beach, Long Beach, Malibu, and further north, Santa Barbara.

Just because the highway ends in Los Angeles, don't let that be the end of your trip! From here, plan out the ultimate California road trip and let it be the crown jewel of your entire vacation.

Ready to get on the open road and enjoy all that the southern United States has to offer? This road trip itinerary will help you plan out what to see along this massive stretch of pavement, from Florida to California. You don't have to do exactly what this itinerary has featured on it, but it's a good basis for your road trip.

You'll find some of the top rated places to stay for each day of your trip right on this page. These I-10 hotels were picked because they have received stellar reviews from guests on major travel websites. The best hotels were chosen for each day, as seen below, along with suggested routes and activities.

View of the Sea, St. Augustine, Florida, USA Photo Print

Day One:
Starting in Jacksonville, you'll be able to see the beautiful Atlantic Coast. If you have time, it's worth the drive to head to St. Augustine, which is less than an hour south of the city.
Driving time: 2-5 hours, depending on the sites seen in the local area

What to do: St. Augustine (1 hour), Amelia Island (45 min), and Daytona Beach (2 hours) are all within a relatively short distance. Soak up the sunshine, walk the beaches, and experience downtown Jacksonville.

One of the best places to stay:
Hampton Inn & Suites Jacksonville South/Bartram Park, Jacksonville,FL

View of Tourists on the Beach, Pensacola Beach Photo Print

Day Two:
Begin your first day on I-10 west, heading out to the Florida Panhandle. Drive approximately 165 miles (2.5 hours) to Tallahasse, and take the scenic route down I-319. Follow the interstate to the coast. I-319 will become I-98. Follow the highway to Panama City Beach, Miramar Beach, and Pensacola.
Drive time: 7.5 hours

Top rated place to stay:
Hampton Inn Pensacola-Airport (Cordova Mall Area), Pensacola,FL

Day Three:
Head north on 95 from Pensacola to I-10 west. An hour to the west, you'll cross state lines to Alabama, and the great city of Mobile. Spend a couple hours exploring this coastal town, then head to Biloxi. Take I-110 south to reach this oceanfront area. Head west on 90 visit Gulfport and the rest of the scenic Mississippi coast. 90 will eventually head towards 607, which meets up with I-10 once again. Take I-10 west to Louisiana. About 1.5 hours from Biloxi is New Orleans. Spend the night in the historic French Quarter.
Drive time: 3-4 hours

Top rated place to stay:
Omni Royal Crescent Hotel, New Orleans in the French Quarter.

Nightlife, Riverwalk, San Antonio Photo Print

Day Four:
After enjoying the night in New Orleans (you may want to spend a whole extra day here -- there's a lot to do), head west on I-10 towards Lafayette and Texas. A quick stopover in Lafayette for a Cajun lunch and a drive along the interstate will bring you to the Texas state line in about 4 hours. Plan to avoid Houston rush hour traffic by traveling through the city in the middle of the day. 5.5 more hours will bring you to San Antonio, making a long driving day. Alternatively, stay in Houston the night, then San Antonio the next night.

The best place to stay in San Antonio:
Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk

Yucca with Thunderstorm in Background, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Day Five:
From San Antonio, you'll have a long trip ahead of you across western Texas. This part of the state has not much in terms of activities, cities, or even towns. Gas up frequently, since gas stations are few and far between. Your best bet is to get to New Mexico and Arizona as quickly as possible. If you'd like, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is just a short drive from El Paso. Big Bend National Park, however, is a 3-4 hour drive from I-10 one way (a whole extra day!). Stay the night in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Drive time: 9.5 hours

Where to stay in Las Cruces (reasonable rates at a good hotel while you pass through town):
Drury Inn & Suites Las Cruces

**Note: In this part of Texas along the Interstate, there aren't many good places to stay. Las Cruces, NM is your best option, so plan your day to end in that area.

Saguaro cacti, Saguaro National Park, Arizona, USA

Day Six:
From Las Cruces, you'll head west again towards Arizona. However, from Las Cruces, you can head north on I-25 towards Albuquerque, White Sands, and Santa Fe. In the same region, you'll find Chaco Culture Historic Park. If you stay on I-10 west, you'll approach Tucson, 4-5 hours to the west. The stretch of road in between is very desolate, so Tucson is a welcome sight to see. Just before you enter Tucson, Saguaro National Park waits to be explored.
Drive time: 5 hours

Pamper yourself at Tucson's best reviewed spa resort: Westin La Paloma Resort And Spa

Toroweap Point, Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA Photo Print

Day Seven:
From Tucson, head west (actually geographically speaking, north, but you'll stay on what is referred to as "west") towards Phoenix. This is one point of your trip you may want to budget some extra time for the side destinations. Grand Canyon, Sedona, Petrified Forest National Park, Flagstaff, and all Utah road trip destinations are to the north. If you have the time, this part of the country is well worth seeing. Assuming you are at least headed towards the Grand Canyon, your drive from Tucson will be about 6 hours. The canyon is best seen at sunset and sunrise, so plan your day around that.
Drive time: 6 hours
Without Grand Canyon stop (straight to Palm Springs, California): 6.25 hours

Top rated place to stay near the Grand Canyon: Courtyard By Marriott Flagstaff

Day 8:
If you drove to Grand Canyon, head southwest towards southern California. This will bring you to the Coachella Valley area. It is a 7.5 hour drive to Palm Springs via I-40 (and a few other routes like I-95 and Highway 62), with lots of backroad desert scenery to behold. Once you get to Palm Springs, relax, and enjoy the beautiful desert surroundings, spas, and golf resorts.

One of the best places to stay in Coachella Valley: Marriott Shadow Ridge, Palm Desert

View of Manhattan Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach

Day 9: Drive west on I-10 towards Los Angeles. Stay anywhere from Newport Beach to Malibu, or head south to San Diego. Now that you're on California's coast, the sightseeing opportunities are endless!

Wine lovers: head north to Napa, Sonoma, and the Central California region.

Beach lovers: be sure to visit the beaches of San Diego, La Jolla, Laguna Beach, Newport, Long Beach, Manhattan Beach, Malibu, and Santa Barbara

Nature lovers: Head inland north to Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks

Read more about California's top tourism destinations.