Road Tripping from Birmingham, Alabama to The Colony, Texas
If you're planning a road trip from Birmingham, Alabama to The Colony, Texas, then you have a few options. Whether you're looking to take the scenic route or the speediest, we've got you covered! Here's our breakdown of the different route options, with each distance and travel time calculated in hours.
The Direct Route
The most direct route from Birmingham to The Colony will take you through Memphis and Little Rock. The total distance is about 650 miles, and we estimate driving time to be about 10 hours.
Since this option is the fastest, it's a good choice if you're short on time or just looking to get to your destination as quickly as possible. Just be prepared for some toll roads along the way and take lots of breaks for rest and stretching.
The Scenic Route
If you're looking for a scenic drive with plenty of eye candy on the way, then consider taking the southern route through Mississippi and Louisiana. This route will take you through the heart of the Deep South, crossing the Mississippi River and traversing bayous and swamps. To maximize your sightseeing, plan to take your time on this 850-mile journey.
We estimate that it will take 16 hours to complete the trip if you're not rushing. Along the way, make sure to stop at famous Southern landmarks like the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, the French Quarter in New Orleans, and the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park on the coast of Mobile Bay.
The Eastern Route
Another option is to head east and travel through Georgia and then northern Florida. This route is about 900 miles in distance and should take you around 14 hours to complete.
Driving through Georgia will give you a chance to stop in Atlanta and see the Coca Cola Museum, the Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site, or perhaps a Braves game. Once you reach Florida, enjoy a quick visit to Pensacola's Gulf Islands National Seashore for a dip in the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
The Mid-West Route
If you have extra time and would like to experience a different part of the country, consider driving north through Tennessee and Missouri. The trip is about 900 miles, and we estimate it will take you around 16 hours to complete.
On this route, you'll get a chance to visit cities like St. Louis, home to the famous Gateway Arch, and Kansas City, where you can check out the iconic Union Station. This drive will also take you through the Ozarks, where scenic vistas abound.
Our Recommendation
While all the routes offer something different, our recommendation is to take the southern route through Mississippi and Louisiana. The Deep South is rich with history, culture, and cuisine, and you won't regret taking the extra time to explore.
Take breaks along the way and enjoy Southern comforts like gumbo, fried chicken, and sweet tea. Consider spending some time in New Orleans, and make sure to stop by the Superdome for a photo-op.
No matter which route you choose, be prepared for a long drive through some beautiful scenery. Plan to make stops along the way and enjoy the journey as much as the destination!