The Best Road Trip: Alexandria, VA to Kenner, LA

Nothing beats a good old-fashioned road trip. The thrill of the unknown, the excitement of adventure, and the freedom of the open road are all reasons why taking a road trip is one of the best ways to see America.

If you're planning a road trip from Alexandria, VA to Kenner, LA, you're in for a treat. The route takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the country, with plenty of sights to see and cities to explore.

Here are the top places to see when driving from Alexandria, Virginia to Kenner, Louisiana:

Section 1: Shenandoah National Park

The first stop on your road trip should be Shenandoah National Park, located just outside of Washington, D.C. This park is known for its stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains, with over 500 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Hiking is the best way to experience the beauty of Shenandoah National Park. Stop at the Visitor Center to get hiking maps and advice on which trails to take. Don't miss the 101-foot cascading waterfall, the tallest waterfall in the park, located on the 8.3-mile hike to White Oak Canyon.

Section 2: Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina is a perfect overnight stop on your road trip. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it's a unique city with a thriving arts scene, excellent food, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Take time to explore the Downtown Asheville Art District, where you'll find an eclectic mix of galleries and shops. For a taste of the city's rich culinary scene, try the local specialty, chicken and waffles.

Section 3: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

No road trip from Alexandria to Louisiana is complete without a stop at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As the most visited national park in the country, it's known for its incredible scenic drives and hiking trails, as well as its rich cultural history.

Start your visit at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you can learn about the park's history and grab a map of the scenic routes. Don't miss the Cades Cove Loop, an 11-mile scenic drive through one of the most beautiful parts of the park.

Section 4: Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile road trip through the heart of the South, running from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. This historic roadway is known for its beautiful scenery and rich history.

Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit historic sites, stop at scenic overlooks, and hike through the beautiful forests and rolling hills of the South. Be sure to stop at the French Camp Historic Village, where you can see what life was like for early settlers in the area.

Section 5: New Orleans, Louisiana

The final destination of your road trip is the vibrant city of New Orleans. Known for its unique culture, delicious food, and world-famous music scene, there's no better place to end your journey.

Take time to explore the French Quarter, where you'll find historic buildings, street performers, and some of the best food in the country. Be sure to try beignets, a local specialty, at Cafe du Monde.

Conclusion

Going on a road trip is an adventure you'll never forget. Whether you're traveling alone or with friends and family, there's no better way to see America than by hitting the open road.

From Shenandoah National Park to New Orleans, this road trip from Alexandria, VA to Kenner, LA has it all. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through some of the most beautiful parts of the country.