A Road Trip from Atlanta to Covington: Finding the Best Route

The drive from Atlanta, Georgia, to Covington, Tennessee, is a little over 300 miles – that's around 5 hours behind the wheel. But with so many options for routes and pit stops along the way, that time will fly by in a breeze. In this article, we'll explore the different routes, distances, and estimated driving times, and we'll also recommend some places to visit and enjoy along the road.

Route 1: I-20 West

The first and most direct route is taking I-20 West all the way to Memphis and then taking I-40 East towards Covington. This is the shortest route at approximately 328 miles and should take roughly 5 hours of driving time. You'll pass through small towns such as Oxford, Alabama, and Birmingham, Alabama, before reaching Memphis, Tennessee, where you can stop to enjoy some of the local BBQ. From Memphis, it's only 45 miles to Covington.

Route 2: US-78 W and I-22

Another option is taking US-78 W and I-22, which is a more scenic route and takes around 6 hours. This route is around 340 miles and passes through Birmingham, Alabama, where you can stop to visit the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum or the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. You'll also pass through Tupelo, Mississippi, where Elvis Presley was born, and then arrive in Memphis, Tennessee, where you can enjoy the world-famous Beale Street. From Memphis, it’s only a 45-minute drive to Covington.

Route 3: I-75 N and I-40 W

If you don’t mind adding a couple of extra miles and a bit of time to the trip, you can take I-75 N and I-40 W. This route is approximately 355 miles and takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes. Along the way, you can stop in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and visit the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park or the Tennessee Aquarium. You'll also pass through Knoxville, Tennessee, where you can visit the Knoxville Museum of Art or the Sunsphere Tower. Finally, you'll arrive in Memphis, Tennessee, where you can enjoy the delicious food and live music. From Memphis, it's just a 45-minute drive to Covington.

Route 4: The Scenic Route

If you have extra time and want to take the most scenic route, you can take I-85 N and US-441 N. This route takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes and spans around 400 miles. Along the way, you can stop in Athens, Georgia, and visit the Georgia Museum of Art or the Georgia Museum of Natural History. You'll also pass through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can soak in the breathtaking views and hike some of the trails. Finally, you'll arrive in Memphis, Tennessee, where you can explore the rich culture and history of the city. From Memphis, it's only a 45-minute drive to Covington.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you choose, you're going to have a great time on your road trip from Atlanta to Covington. Be sure to take breaks and stretch your legs along the way and enjoy the local cuisine and attractions in each town you pass through. The journey is often just as important as the destination, so take your time and enjoy the ride!