A Southern Roadtrip: Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Carrollton, GA and New Orleans, LA
Pack your bags and hit the open road! The stretch from Carrollton, Georgia to New Orleans, Louisiana is a scenic and culturally diverse route with plenty of memorable stops along the way. With relatively light traffic and manageable distances, it's a great road trip for travelers looking to explore the South. Here are the top five places you shouldn't miss.
Halfway Point: York, AL
About halfway between Carrollton, Georgia and New Orleans, Louisiana, you'll come across the small town of York, Alabama. This charming southern community has a lot to offer visitors. Plan to stop by the historic York Drug Store, which has been a staple in the community for over a century. While you're there, be sure to grab a milkshake or float at the old fashioned soda fountain. If you're interested in the history of the area, stop by the Tuscaloosa-Federal Road Interpretive Center to learn more about the significant role this route played in the Civil War.
Top Five Places to See:
Oak Alley Plantation, Vacherie, LA
There are plenty of historic plantations throughout the South, but few are as iconic as Oak Alley Plantation. This antebellum mansion is surrounded by a breathtakingly beautiful avenue of 300-year-old oak trees, earning it the nickname "Grande Dame of the Great River Road." Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and grounds to learn more about the history of the South. If you're feeling adventurous, take a stroll through the plantation's gardens or enjoy a mint julep at the on-site restaurant.
Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA
If you're looking for a good time, there's no place like Bourbon Street. This iconic New Orleans destination is famous for its vibrant nightlife, live music, and street performers. During Mardi Gras season, Bourbon Street is the place to be, but even outside of carnival season there's always something going on. Be sure to stop by some of the area's best-known bars and restaurants, like Pat O'Brien's or Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop.
Nottoway Plantation, White Castle, LA
Another beautiful historic home is the Nottoway Plantation, located in White Castle, Louisiana. This Greek Revival-style mansion was built in 1859 and is one of the largest plantation homes in the South. During your visit, you can tour the mansion's incredible interior, which features ornate plasterwork and a winding spiral staircase. Stay on-site in one of the mansion's luxurious rooms or suites, and explore the beautiful gardens and nearby attractions.
The Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, LA
Sports lovers won't want to miss a visit to the legendary Mercedes-Benz Superdome. This facility has been home to the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League since 1975, and to the Sugar Bowl, a college football bowl game, every year since 1976. Take a tour of the stadium to learn more about the history of the team and the facility, or catch a game if you're lucky enough to be in town during football season.
The Coca-Cola Space Science Center, Columbus, GA
If you're a fan of science and space, don't miss the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus, Georgia. This interactive museum and planetarium offers visitors plenty of educational and entertaining exhibits, including a space shuttle simulator and a planetarium show. The center has been recognized as one of the best educational attractions for children in the state and is a great way to add a little science to your road trip.
Conclusion
There's no shortage of great places to visit between Carrollton, Georgia and New Orleans, Louisiana, but these top five stops are sure to provide plenty of adventure, history, and fun. From the grandeur of Oak Alley Plantation to the excitement of Bourbon Street, there's a little something for everyone along this route. If you're looking for a good trip, take the scenic route along the Mississippi River and experience some of the best of the South.