The Southern Sampler: A 5-Day Family Road Trip
This fast-paced 5-day road trip is designed for the family on a mission: to see as much of the South’s diverse beauty as possible. From mountains and cities to historic squares and coastal charm, this loop hits four states and offers a whirlwind tour of kid-friendly attractions, scenic drives, and unforgettable experiences. Pack your snacks, cue up the playlist, and get ready for an adventure!
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Atlanta, GA to Chattanooga, TN
Begin your trip in Atlanta and head north on I-75 for the easy 2-hour drive to Chattanooga, Tennessee. This city is packed with family fun. Your main destination is the incredible Tennessee Aquarium, which has two massive buildings showcasing freshwater and ocean life. Plan for at least 3-4 hours here. After the aquarium, head up Lookout Mountain for two classic attractions. First, ride the Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways, for a thrilling trip and amazing views. At the top, visit Rock City, where you can walk through magical rock formations and see the famous “See Seven States” viewpoint. For dinner, the Chattanooga Choo Choo complex offers several family-friendly dining options in a fun, historic setting.
Insider Tip: Beat the Crowds
The Tennessee Aquarium is very popular. Book your tickets online in advance for a specific entry time to avoid long lines, especially on weekends. This will save you valuable time for your other adventures.
Day 2: The Great Smoky Mountains & Asheville, NC
Get an early start for a scenic day of driving. From Chattanooga, head east towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park. Enter the park near Cherokee, NC, and drive the scenic Newfound Gap Road. This 31-mile road climbs to an elevation of over 5,000 feet, offering numerous pull-offs with stunning mountain vistas. Stop at Newfound Gap for a family photo on the state line between Tennessee and North Carolina. For a short, kid-friendly hike, the Clingmans Dome trail (it’s steep but paved) leads to an observation tower with 360-degree views. After exploring the park, continue on to the vibrant city of Asheville, North Carolina. Check into your hotel and then head downtown for dinner. Asheville is a foodie city with tons of options. For a fun and casual family meal, try White Duck Taco Shop.
Insider Tip: Family-Friendly Hikes
The Smokies are full of trails for all skill levels. The Gatlinburg Trail is a flat, 1.9-mile one-way path that is one of only two trails in the park that allows dogs. The Laurel Falls Trail is a paved, 2.6-mile roundtrip hike to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall, making it a perfect choice for families. Find more trail ideas at the official National Park Service website.
Day 3: Asheville Exploration & Drive to Savannah, GA
Francisco Cornellana Castells
Spend the morning at Asheville’s crown jewel, the Biltmore Estate. America’s largest private home is a marvel of architecture and Gilded Age history. The house tour is fascinating, but the kids will especially love exploring the vast gardens and the farm at Antler Hill Village. Plan for at least half a day here. After your visit, grab lunch in Biltmore Village before hitting the road for the longest drive of the trip. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Asheville to Savannah, Georgia. Arrive in the evening, check into your hotel in or near the Historic District, and take a relaxing evening stroll along the famous River Street, watching the container ships glide by. For dinner, enjoy some classic Southern seafood at a restaurant like The Crab Shack on nearby Tybee Island for a super casual, fun family experience.
Insider Tip: Biltmore with Kids
The main house tour at Biltmore can be long for young children. Consider the kid’s audio guide to keep them engaged. Also, the playground and creamery at Antler Hill Village are perfect for letting them burn off some energy after the tour.
Day 4: Historic Savannah & Coastal Charm
Dedicate today to exploring one of America’s most beautiful cities. The best way to see Savannah with kids is on a hop-on, hop-off trolley tour. It gives you a great overview of the city’s famous historic squares and allows you to get off at key points of interest without tiring out little legs. Be sure to hop off at Forsyth Park to see its iconic fountain and let the kids run around. Another must-see is the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, which has fascinating models and exhibits that kids enjoy. For a sweet treat, a stop at Leopold’s Ice Cream is a Savannah tradition. In the afternoon, you have a choice: either continue exploring the historic streets or take a short 20-minute drive to Tybee Island for some beach time. You can visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum and climb to the top for incredible coastal views before heading back to Savannah for your last night in the city.
Historical Deep Dive: Savannah’s Squares
Savannah’s 22 historic squares are the heart and soul of the city. They were part of the original city plan and make exploring on foot a delight. Turn it into a game for the kids by trying to find the statues in Chippewa Square (where Forrest Gump’s bench scene was filmed) and Johnson Square. Visit Savannah’s official guide can help you plan your walk.
Day 5: Return Drive to Atlanta
Enjoy a final Southern breakfast in Savannah before starting the 4-hour drive back to Atlanta on I-16 and I-75. To break up the drive, consider a stop in Macon, Georgia. You can visit the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, where you can see ancient earthworks built by Native Americans and enter a reconstructed Earth Lodge. It’s a fascinating and educational stop that provides a great opportunity for kids to stretch their legs. Alternatively, the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Macon has a mini-zoo and planetarium that are perfect for a short family visit. This final stop provides one last taste of Georgia’s rich history before you conclude your whirlwind tour of the South back in Atlanta.
Itinerary Snapshot
- Trip Duration: 5 Days
- Start/End Point: Atlanta, GA
- Key States: Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina
- Approx. Driving Distance: 850 miles
- Focus: Family Fun, Mountains, History, Scenic Drives