Top Places to See When Driving From Beckley, West Virginia to Gulfport, Mississippi

Are you planning a road trip from Beckley, West Virginia, to Gulfport, Mississippi? Buckle up and get ready for an exciting journey! This route will take you through some vibrant cities, beautiful landscapes, and historic landmarks that are sure to impress you. From the Appalachian Mountains to the Gulf Coast, there is no shortage of fascinating places to see on this road trip. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of top places to see when driving from Beckley, West Virginia, to Gulfport, Mississippi.

1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a charming mountain town located at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This town is famous for its striking natural beauty, delightful attractions, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Downtown Gatlinburg boasts over 100 quirky and unique shops, an array of dining options, and attractions such as the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Ripley's Believe It or Not! museum. If you love the outdoors, make sure to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers hiking trails, scenic drives, wildlife watching, and breathtaking views.

2. Helen, Georgia

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen, Georgia, is a Bavarian-inspired town that transports visitors to another world. This picturesque town is famous for its Alpine-style architecture, charming shops, and authentic German cuisine. You can stroll along the Chattahoochee River, go tubing, or hike the nearby trails. In September, the annual Oktoberfest celebration attracts thousands of visitors with beer, food, live music, and folk dancers.

3. Montgomery, Alabama

Montgomery, Alabama, is a historic city that played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement and is also home to several notable museums. You can visit the Rosa Parks Museum, which pays tribute to the Civil Rights icon who refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery city bus in 1955. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice is a powerful tribute to the victims of racial violence and lynching in America. You can also tour the state Capitol and the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. served as a pastor.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans, Louisiana, is a vibrant city that is famous for its jazz music, Creole cuisine, and Mardi Gras celebrations. No visit to New Orleans would be complete without a stroll along Bourbon Street, where you can experience the city's nightlife and sample local cocktails such as the Hurricane and the Sazerac. You can also visit Jackson Square, which is home to the iconic St. Louis Cathedral and many street performers. Other must-visit attractions include the French Quarter, the National World War II Museum, and the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.

5. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a stunning beach destination that offers sun, sand, and year-round outdoor activities. This coastal paradise is known for its sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and ample opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and parasailing. You can also explore the Gulf State Park, which boasts over 6,000 acres of preserved natural beauty. The park features hiking and biking trails, a fishing pier, a golf course, a butterfly garden, and a zip-line course.

Conclusion

This road trip from Beckley, West Virginia, to Gulfport, Mississippi, offers a diverse range of experiences, from mountain towns and historic cities to beach getaways and vibrant cultural hubs. Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or with family, this route has something for everyone. Make sure to stop and explore these top places along the way for an unforgettable adventure that you will cherish for years to come!