You can make Memphis to New Orleans in about 6 hours, but the people who love this drive never do it in one straight shot. At around 395 miles on I-55, it is short enough to start after breakfast and long enough to earn a night somewhere memorable close to the history.
Open this route in XCRSNLeaving Memphis
Aim to clear Memphis before the morning rush, or after it, never in it. Fill the tank on the edge of town where prices usually drop, set the playlist, and settle in for the first 214 miles to Jackson.
The headline stop on this route is LaLaurie Mansion in the French Quarter. Leave real time for it; it sets the tone for the whole trip.
Jackson
Jackson sits about 214 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Nearby, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and Marie Laveau is worth the short detour if the day is going well.
McComb, the last stretch
McComb sits about 295 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Rolling into New Orleans
The final 100 miles always go faster than you expect. Save a little energy for Voodoo and ghost walking tours; it is a fitting finish.
By the end you will have seen LaLaurie Mansion in the French Quarter, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and Marie Laveau and Voodoo and ghost walking tours, and you will understand why this corridor is a classic.
When to go and how to pace it
One night is the sweet spot. New Orleans, LA is where most people stay, so book ahead on summer weekends.
Check live gas prices along I-55 before you go; they can swing a lot from one state or county to the next. XCRSN prices every leg for your exact car.
