How Long Is the Road Trip From Nashville to New Orleans?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a road trip from Nashville to New Orleans? It’s a great adventure that offers stunning scenery, rich history, and amazing food.

But how long will it take you to get there? Let’s find out.

The distance from Nashville to New Orleans is approximately 530 miles. Depending on your route and mode of transportation, the journey can take anywhere from 8-10 hours by car.

Driving from Nashville to New Orleans

If you’re driving, the most direct route is via I-65 South and I-10 West. This route takes you through Birmingham and Mobile before arriving in New Orleans. The total driving time without stops is approximately 8 hours.

However, if you want to make the most of your road trip experience, consider taking an alternate route that includes scenic routes and attractions along the way. For example, you could take the Natchez Trace Parkway through Tupelo and Jackson before joining I-55 South to New Orleans. This route covers approximately 700 miles and takes around 13 hours with stops.

Tip: Don’t forget to factor in rest stops, meals, and fuel breaks into your travel time.

Other modes of transportation

If you prefer not to drive or want a more relaxing journey, consider taking a bus or train. Greyhound operates several buses daily from Nashville to New Orleans with an average travel time of 12 hours. Amtrak also offers a train service that takes around 19 hours but offers stunning views along the way.

Tip: Check ticket prices and schedules in advance for the best deals and availability.

Things to see along the way

No matter which mode of transportation you choose or which route you take, there are plenty of sights worth seeing on the road trip from Nashville to New Orleans:

The Country Music Hall of Fame – Nashville

If you’re a fan of country music, make sure to stop at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. It’s a museum that showcases the history and evolution of country music.

The Jack Daniel’s Distillery – Lynchburg

Whiskey lovers shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee. You can take a tour of the distillery and learn about the whiskey-making process.

The French Quarter – New Orleans

One of the most famous neighborhoods in New Orleans is the French Quarter. It’s known for its architecture, live music, and delicious cuisine.

  • Beignets at Cafe Du Monde
  • Jazz clubs on Bourbon Street
  • The St. Louis Cathedral

So there you have it – a rough idea of how long it takes to get from Nashville to New Orleans and some things to see along the way. Whatever your mode of transportation or route, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable adventure that you won’t regret taking.