States #32, 33, 34, and 35: Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana
Memphis: BBQ, Blues and Beale Street
From St. Louis, it was time to buckle up and get ready for some unforgettable flavors and melodious rhythms as we headed to Memphis, Tennessee, where we encountered a blend of tasty eats and legendary beats.
In Memphis, we were greeted with the enticing aroma of barbeque wafting through the air. We couldn’t resist trying some delectable Memphis-style barbeque tacos at Hueys on Beale Street.
After satisfying our taste buds, we set out to explore Beale Street, a vibrant hub of live music and lively atmosphere.
Walking in the Footsteps of Elvis
No visit to Memphis would be complete without paying homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley.
So, we made our way to Graceland, the iconic home of the legendary Elvis Presley. The experience was surreal, and it felt like stepping back in time to witness the legacy of the music icon.
A Night of Blues
The highlight of our musical escapade was a night spent at BB King’s House of Blues, where we immersed ourselves in the soulful tunes of the blues and more local flavors.
It was an unforgettable evening filled with infectious rhythms and heartwarming melodies.
We also ventured into West Memphis to visit Arkansas, state number 32 on our 48-state quest.
Alabama and a Journey Into Space
Our next adventure led us to visit my relatives in Huntsville, Alabama, where we explored the wonders of space at Space Camp and the US Space & Rocket Center.
After indulging in some futuristic excitement, we packed our bags and headed south to the vibrant city of New Orleans.
Through Mississippi to New Orleans
After driving through Mississippi, and upon arriving in New Orleans, we were greeted by the charm of the city, and we couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay than the elegant Waldorf Astoria Roosevelt Hotel, situated just off Canal Street and close to the enchanting French Quarter.
New Orleans is synonymous with its rich culinary heritage, and we wasted no time in diving into the diverse culinary delights.
At the Cat’s Meow, we sang our hearts out during a fun-filled karaoke session, setting the mood for our food adventure.
Fried Alligator and Bourbon Street
One of the highlights of our visit was trying the unique and flavorful fried alligator meat at Curio, served with Mayhaw pepper jelly and cilantro-lime mayo. It was an exotic treat that left us craving for more.
While exploring the famed Bourbon Street, we indulged in mini-muffulettas, a delightful combination of ham, salami, mortadella, Swiss, provolone, and a briny marinated olive paste with Kalamata and green olives, accompanied by other tasty, pickled veggies.
Jazz in the French Quarter
New Orleans is not just about food but also about the soulful sounds of jazz. We immersed ourselves in the enchanting melodies of live jazz at Jackson Square, feeling the city’s musical heartbeat.
No trip to the French Quarter would be complete without trying a shrimp po-boy, which we paired with a fried chicken BLT at Cafe Fleur-De-Lis. The flavors danced on our tongues, leaving us with lasting memories of New Orleans’ culinary prowess.
Beignets and Coffee
And, of course, we couldn’t leave without savoring the famous beignets and coffee at Cafe du Monde. These delightful treats were the perfect way to bid adieu to this vibrant city.
From Memphis to New Orleans
Our journey from Memphis to New Orleans was a symphony of flavors and melodies, immersing us in the rich tapestry of Southern cuisine and soulful music.
From savoring Memphis-style barbeque tacos to indulging in the diverse delicacies of New Orleans, every moment was a celebration of the senses.
Keep exploring and savoring the world’s culinary and musical treasures!
Where I Stayed:
Spring Hill Suites Memphis Downtown
The Spring Hill Suites Memphis Downtown put us close to the heart of one of Tennessee’s most musical cities. Its downtown location made it easy to reach Beale Street, the Mississippi River, and Memphis’s many historic attractions. Being so close to the city’s famous music scene added plenty of atmosphere to the stay. Memphis was another destination where simply walking outside the hotel could turn into an adventure.
Hampton Inn & Suites Huntsville Hampton Cove
The Hampton Inn & Suites Huntsville Hampton Cove was a particularly convenient stop while visiting family and exploring the Huntsville area. Located along Highway 431, the hotel is only about 10 minutes from downtown Huntsville and offers a large outdoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and Hampton’s complimentary hot breakfast. It was a comfortable place to relax between adventures and another dependable Hilton property during our travels through Alabama.
Hilton Garden Inn Meridian, Mississippi
The Hilton Garden Inn in Meridian was another comfortable overnight stop as we made our way across the South. We had the convenience of a full-service hotel where we could unwind after a day on the road rather than having to search for somewhere to stay after arriving in town. The Hilton Garden Inn brand also made it feel familiar and dependable during our travels. It was exactly the sort of practical stop that helped keep our long-distance road trip moving smoothly.
Waldorf Astoria New Orleans
Our stay at the Waldorf Astoria New Orleans was a completely different experience from the simple roadside hotels along our route. Located near Canal Street and the French Quarter, the historic property provided an elegant base for exploring one of America’s most distinctive cities. After days of driving, it was a real treat to settle into a more upscale hotel and enjoy the atmosphere of New Orleans. It was a memorable place to stay while experiencing the food, music, nightlife, and unique character of the city.