Calling All Music City Migrants: Your NOLA Escape Plan (Without the Alligators in the Trunk)
So, you've ditched the cowboy boots for beignets and swapped country twang for Mardi Gras mayhem? Excellent choice! But before you hit the road with a banjo strapped to your roof rack (because, let's be real, who doesn't travel like that?), here's a guide on getting from Nashville to the Big Easy without any wrong turns (except maybe for that detour to Graceland...we won't judge).
Airborne Adventure: The High-Flyin' Option
For those who like their travel time measured in margaritas, not moonshine, then flying is your best bet. Nashville International Airport (BNA) has plenty of daily flights to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). You'll be sipping Sazeracs in the French Quarter before you can say "hot chicken." Pro tip: Pack light, because those checked bag fees can be a real buzzkill.
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Hitting the Open Road: Buckle Up for a Scenic Detour (Maybe Two)
Nashville to New Orleans by car? Now that's a road trip with a soundtrack! This scenic route (roughly 750 miles) is perfect for those who want to turn the journey into an adventure. Must-See Stops:
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
- Memphis, Tennessee: Pay your respects to the King at Graceland (and maybe score some peanut butter and banana sandwiches...we won't tell).
- Natchez Trace Parkway: This historic route winds through stunning landscapes - perfect for a picnic lunch and a stretch break (those gas station burritos can only take you so far).
Word to the wise: Don't forget to pack your aux cord and a playlist that goes from country classics to brass band anthems.
QuickTip: Treat each section as a mini-guide.
How To Get From Nashville To New Orleans |
Bus: The Budget-Friendly Ballad
Looking to save a buck (because let's be honest, that extra cash is better spent on beignets)? Hopping on a Greyhound is a perfectly viable option. Warning: This isn't exactly a luxury cruise, but it's a chance to meet some interesting characters and become one with the open road (or at least your assigned bus seat). Bonus: Gaze out the window and pretend you're on a cross-country music video shoot.
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
How To...
- How to find the cheapest flights? Budget airlines like Southwest and Spirit often have good deals. Be flexible with your travel dates for the best prices.
- How to prepare for a road trip? Get your car serviced, pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and download some audiobooks or podcasts for entertainment.
- How long does the bus ride take? The trip can take anywhere from 14 to 17 hours, depending on the route and number of stops.
- How to avoid traffic in New Orleans? The French Quarter gets crowded, so consider staying outside the city center if you're driving.
- How to pack for New Orleans? Pack for hot and humid weather, comfortable shoes for exploring, and don't forget your dancing shoes!
So there you have it, folks! Your roadmap to NOLA awaits. Now get out there, grab a fistful of fun, and remember: the journey (and the music) is just as important as the destination!