The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Austin, Texas to Destin, Florida

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road and embarking on a road trip. From the thrill of planning the route to the endless possibilities for spontaneous detours, road trips offer a unique kind of adventure that is hard to find elsewhere. Driving from Austin, Texas to Destin, Florida offers the perfect opportunity to soak up some southern charm and explore some of the more underrated spots in the southern United States.

Here are the top places to see when driving from Austin, Texas to Destin, Florida:

1. The Alamo, San Antonio, Texas

The Alamo is undoubtedly one of the most historic places in the United States and a must-visit spot if you're driving from Austin to Destin. The Alamo is a symbol of the Texas Revolution and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is basically a mission that served as a fortress in the Battle of the Alamo back in 1836. It has played a significant role in shaping Texas history and is a cherished landmark in the area.

Inside the Alamo, you can explore its stunning chapel, tour the old barracks, and visit the Long Barracks Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the battle and early Texas history. Taking a guided tour of the Alamo gives you a chance to learn more about the site's cultural significance and add a historical element to your road trip.

2. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

On your way to Destin, you might want to spend a night in Hot Springs National Park, located in Arkansas. Dubbed as the "American Spa," the hot spring has been attracting visitors since the 1800s. The park boasts 47 natural hot springs along with lush mountain trails, an observation tower with stunning panoramic views, and the historic Fordyce Bathhouse. Exploring the trails allows you to bask in the great outdoors, breathe in the fresh air, and take in the natural wonders of the south.

Suppose you're looking for a more extensive range of lodgings and restaurants, consider staying in downtown Hot Springs in the heart of the national park. Here you can dine at several types of restaurants and even visit the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, where you can bet on horses and an assortment of other things.

3. The Gulf of Mexico, Destin, Florida

Destin, Florida highlights the finish of this epic road trip, and we suggest visiting the Gulf of Mexico while you're there. It is, therefore, no surprise that Destin’s nickname is the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” This nickname comes from the fact that these warm and deep waters are home to an array of fish species, making it ideal for sportfishing enthusiasts.

While on the Gulf of Mexico, you can participate in numerous activities like fishing, dolphin watching, or taking a sunset cruise. In the evening, head to the Harbor Boardwalk in Destin, where you will find plenty of dining options, nightlife, local markets, and souvenir stores. The Emerald Coast is famous for stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, so it's a perfect place to spend a day just lounging about.

4. Bourbon Street, New Orleans, Louisiana

When heading to Destin, take the opportunity to explore one of the most vibrant cities in the south-US, New Orleans. From its unique culture to the eclectic architecture that adorns the city, New Orleans offers a great mix of historic charm and modern entertainment. One popular attraction in New Orleans is Bourbon Street, which is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants that offer an array of drink specials, live music, and delicious food.

While on Bourbon Street, be sure to visit the historic Pat O’Brien’s bar to taste their signature drink - the Hurricane - a perfect tropical drink that consists of rum, passionfruit syrup, and lime juice. It is also worth noting that you can pick up souvenirs from your time in Louisiana in the surrounding areas of Bourbon Street or over on magazine street, where several eclectic shops sell one-of-a-kind items.

5. Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana

No road trip from Austin to Destin is complete without experiencing the antebellum architecture and the deep south history. The Oak Alley Plantation is a prime example of such history and is one of the most picturesque locations on this route. This historic mansion in St. James Parish, Louisiana, features a quarter-mile canopy of oak trees, towering 300 years old, and a Greek Revival-style house.

A visit to the Oak Alley plantation includes a guided tour of the historic house, and visitors are free to walk the surrounding gardens and explore the exhibits on life on a plantation during the 19th century. The on-site restaurant, located in the slave quarters, offers authentic Louisiana Creole cuisine that is worth trying.

Conclusion

Driving from Austin, Texas, to Destin, Florida offers a chance to experience the southern charm combined with the unique cultural and natural wonders of the southern region. We hope this post helps you map out some of the best stops to make along the way, and you can explore what the south has to offer. From the Alamo to the Gulf of Mexico, there is something for everyone on this road trip, so buckle up, and let's go!