A drive from Covington, Georgia to Holly Springs, Mississippi is a scenic journey that allows travelers to experience the beauty of the Southern United States. The route takes approximately 6 hours, passing through charming towns, rolling hills, and lush landscapes. On a recent road trip, the writer discovered five unexpected places to stop along the way, each offering unique experiences and local flavor.
Birmingham, AL
As the halfway point between Covington and Holly Springs, Birmingham, AL offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and Southern hospitality. Travelers can visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to learn about the city's role in the Civil Rights Movement, or explore the lush gardens and impressive art collection at the Birmingham Museum of Art. For a taste of local cuisine, stop by Saw's BBQ for mouthwatering smoked meats and classic Southern sides. The city's distinct blend of tradition and innovation make it a worthwhile stop on any road trip through the South.
Favorite Food: Saw's BBQ - Pulled pork sandwich with mac and cheese.
Tupelo, MS
Tupelo, MS, the birthplace of Elvis Presley, is a can't-miss stop on the drive from Covington to Holly Springs. Visitors can tour the modest two-room house where the King of Rock 'n' Roll was born, or head to the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum to see memorabilia and learn about the singer's early years. For a taste of the local food scene, the writer recommends trying some spicy and satisfying Southern fried chicken at Connie's Fried Chicken, a beloved local spot serving up crispy, flavorful chicken and all the fixings.
Favorite Food: Connie's Fried Chicken - Spicy fried chicken with sides of coleslaw and cornbread.
Oxford, MS
A charming college town with a rich literary history, Oxford, MS is a delightful place to take a break from the road. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, wander through the picturesque University of Mississippi campus, or visit the iconic Square Books, which has been a local institution for over 40 years. For a meal that captures the essence of Southern comfort food, indulge in a hearty plate of shrimp and grits at Ajax Diner. The combination of plump, juicy shrimp and creamy, satisfying grits is a true taste of Mississippi.
Favorite Food: Ajax Diner - Shrimp and grits with a side of cornbread.
Vicksburg, MS
Known for its significant role in the Civil War, Vicksburg, MS is a destination rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore the Vicksburg National Military Park, home to battlefields, monuments, and the U.S.S. Cairo Gunboat and Museum. After a day of sightseeing, the writer recommends stopping at Walnut Hills Restaurant for a taste of classic Southern soul food. Don't miss their mouthwatering fried chicken, served with the perfect side of collard greens and buttery cornbread.
Favorite Food: Walnut Hills Restaurant - Fried chicken with collard greens and cornbread.
Memphis, TN
Before reaching Holly Springs, make a final stop in Memphis, TN, the birthplace of Blues music and home to iconic attractions like Graceland and Beale Street. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's musical legacy at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, or indulge in a finger-licking good slab of Memphis-style barbecue ribs at the famous Rendezvous BBQ restaurant. The combination of tender, flavorful ribs and tangy barbecue sauce make for a delicious and satisfying end to the trip.
Favorite Food: Rendezvous BBQ - Memphis-style barbecue ribs with a side of baked beans.
In sum, a road trip from Covington, Georgia to Holly Springs, Mississippi offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the diverse and captivating sights, sounds, and flavors of the South. From the historic landmarks of Birmingham and Tupelo to the literary charm of Oxford and the cultural richness of Vicksburg, each stop along the way provides a unique and enriching experience that makes the journey as memorable as the destination. The writer encourages readers to take the time to embark on this road trip, as it offers a chance to discover hidden gems, indulge in delicious regional cuisine, and create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come. So gas up the car, grab some snacks, and hit the road – the unexpected delights of the Southern United States await.