Scenes From the South: A Self-Drive Movie Tour

Welcome to the Big Easy! Upon your arrival in New Orleans, immerse yourself in the lively energy of the city. From the moment you set foot in the French Quarter, the vibrant streets come alive with the sounds of jazz, the aromas of Creole cuisine, and the sight of historic architecture.

Start your evening with a stroll down Bourbon Street, where the carnival-like atmosphere captures the spirit of New Orleans. For a quieter yet equally enchanting experience, head to Royal Street to admire the wrought-iron balconies and explore the antique shops. Don't forget to visit Jackson Square, the heart of the French Quarter, where street performers and artists gather beneath the shadow of St. Louis Cathedral.

Daily Highlights:

• Explore the French Quarter's lively streets and unique architecture.
• Experience the flavours of Creole and Cajun cuisine.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Acme Oyster House: Known for chargrilled oysters and a casual vibe.
• Brennan's Restaurant: Creole fine dining with a modern twist.

Start your day by immersing yourself in the cinematic charm of New Orleans. The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, is an iconic neighbourhood that has appeared in numerous films. Begin with a stroll along Bourbon Street, where you can experience the vibrant carnival atmosphere depicted in movies like Live and Let Die, The Pelican Brief, and Tightrope. The lively party atmosphere with bright beads and feathered masks sets the stage for unforgettable visuals.

Next, head to Rue Royal, famous for its antique gas lanterns and hanging gardens. Notably, the addresses from 700 to 900 on Rue Royal were featured in Interview with the Vampire. Continue your exploration by hopping onto a streetcar to the Garden District, a charming area rich in history and cinematic allure. Key highlights include Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 and the Old Coliseum Theater, both appearing in Interview with the Vampire and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

In the afternoon, dive deeper into New Orleans' connection to the film industry with the Movie and TV Show Tour. Known as the Big Easy, New Orleans has long been a favourite filming location for movies and television. On this guided tour, you'll visit locations featured in over a dozen productions, including classics like Lolita and Elvis Presley's King Creole. Your guide will share behind-the-scenes stories and highlight the city's prominent role in entertainment.

Wrap up your day by taking in the scenic riverfront before returning to the French Quarter via streetcar. Relive the iconic moments from A Streetcar Named Desire as you ride.

Pick up your rental car from the downtown location and journey along the iconic Plantation Trail, which follows the Mississippi River through Cajun Country. Start your adventure with a visit to Oak Alley Plantation, famous for its breathtaking canopy of 300-year-old oak trees that line the grand approach to the house—recognized for its role in Interview with the Vampire and Beyoncé's Déjà Vu. Oak Alley offers guided tours that bring its rich history to life. Stroll through the beautifully preserved antebellum mansion and the lush gardens, where you'll learn about the lives of those who lived and worked there.

Continue your drive to the Houmas House Estate, another stunning former sugarcane plantation. This lovingly restored house and its 38-acre gardens have been featured in Hush... Hush, Sweet Charlotte and several other productions. A guided tour will reveal this location's fascinating history and cinematic significance.

On your way back to New Orleans, take the scenic route along Highway 1 and stop at Laurel Valley Plantation. Although the main house no longer stands, this historic sugar plantation complex is a must-see for fans of Ray, as it served as the backdrop for Ray Charles' childhood scenes.

Wrap up your day with a cocktail at one of New Orleans' iconic bars or enjoy a relaxing dinner at Café Adelaide, known for its modern twist on Creole classics.

Daily Highlights:

• Tour Oak Alley Plantation and its famous oak-lined path.
• Explore Houmas House and its spectacular gardens.
• Visit Laurel Valley Plantation and experience its cinematic history.

Recommended Restaurants:

• The Carriage House at Houmas House: A refined dining experience in a plantation setting.
• Arnaud's Restaurant: Traditional Creole with a historic ambience.

Driving Distance: 90 miles / 144 km

Today's journey takes you northwest through the breathtaking Atchafalaya Basin, one of the most extensive swamps in the United States. Start your day with an optional airboat tour to explore the basin's abundant wildlife and serene waterways, a setting that inspired scenes from the early silent film Tarzan of the Apes.

Continue your drive to Morgan City, known for its role in Tarzan and other early Hollywood productions. Stretch your legs and enjoy the waterfront scenery before visiting the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola. Here, you'll find the Angola Museum, which provides insight into the real-life and on-screen history of this infamous prison, famously featured in Dead Man Walking.

The day concludes in Natchitoches, one of Louisiana's oldest towns and the setting for the beloved movie Steel Magnolias. Enjoy a stroll along historic Front Street, with charming shops, restaurants, and a scenic riverfront..

Daily Highlights:

• Discover the Atchafalaya Basin, a vast and picturesque swamp.
• Learn about the history of Angola Penitentiary and its film connections.
• Stroll through Natchitoches, the real-life inspiration for Steel Magnolias.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Mayeaux's Nakatosh Deli & Pub is a cosy spot in Natchitoches that offers hearty deli fare, craft beers, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Merci Beaucoup: Known for its Creole-inspired comfort food.

Driving Distance: 120 miles / 193 km

Start your day with a leisurely morning in Natchitoches. Take a stroll along Cane River Lake and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Front Street, which is lined with charming shops and cafés. Be sure to visit the Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast, a notable filming location from the movie Steel Magnolias. You can also explore other sites featured in the film, such as Truvy's Beauty Spot and Ouiser's House.

For breakfast, stop by Lasyone's Meat Pie Restaurant, a local favourite known for its Creole-inspired meat pies and hearty Southern breakfast options.

After soaking in the charm of Natchitoches, embark on a scenic drive to Greenwood, Mississippi. The route will take you through the picturesque landscapes of the Mississippi Delta, famous for its cultural significance and natural beauty. Consider briefly stopping to stretch your legs and enjoy the rural scenery.

Arrive in Greenwood by late afternoon, where you can settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Daily Highlights:

• Morning exploration of Natchitoches' Steel Magnolias sites.
• Scenic drive through the Mississippi Delta.
• Relaxed arrival in Greenwood 

Recommended Restaurants:

• Lasyone's Meat Pie Restaurant: Known for its iconic meat pies and Creole breakfasts.
• Giardina's Restaurant: A classic choice for Southern comfort food and hospitality.

Driving Distance: Approximately 220 miles / 354 km

Start your day with a leisurely morning in Natchitoches. Take a stroll along Cane River Lake and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Front Street, which is lined with charming shops and cafés. Be sure to visit the Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast, a notable filming location from the movie Steel Magnolias. You can also explore other sites featured in the film, such as Truvy's Beauty Spot and Ouiser's House.

For breakfast, stop by Lasyone's Meat Pie Restaurant, a local favourite known for its Creole-inspired meat pies and hearty Southern breakfast options.

After soaking in the charm of Natchitoches, embark on a scenic drive to Greenwood, Mississippi. The route will take you through the picturesque landscapes of the Mississippi Delta, famous for its cultural significance and natural beauty. Consider briefly stopping to stretch your legs and enjoy the rural scenery.

Arrive in Greenwood by late afternoon, where you can settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Daily Highlights:

• Discover iconic filming locations from The Help.
• Explore Greenwood's cultural and historical landmarks.
• Relax with Southern comfort food at local favourites.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Lusco's: A Greenwood institution serving classic Delta cuisine in a historic, speakeasy-style setting.
• Webster's Food and Drink: A local favourite for hearty meals and warm hospitality.

Overnight: Greenwood

Start your day with a scenic drive from Greenwood to Memphis, Tennessee, the birthplace of blues and rock 'n' roll and a city with a rich cinematic history. Arrive by late morning and explore Memphis' iconic movie locations and cultural landmarks.

Kick off your visit to Graceland, Elvis Presley's legendary estate, which has been featured in numerous films and documentaries. Enjoy a guided tour of the mansion and its grounds, including the famous Jungle Room, Meditation Garden, Automobile Museum, and Custom Jet collection.

For lunch, check out The Arcade Restaurant, Memphis' oldest café. It has appeared in movies like Great Balls of Fire! and The Firm.

After lunch, check into your hotel and then visit Sun Studio, known as the "Birthplace of Rock' n' Roll," where legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits. The studio has been featured in films such as 'Walk the Line' and offers an immersive look into the roots of modern music. Entrance is payable locally.

Enjoy a stroll along Beale Street, the heart of Memphis' music scene and a frequent backdrop in films like The Firm and Elvis. Experience live street performances and pop into iconic venues to soak up the vibrant energy of this historic street.

If you have time, conclude your day with a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination and a significant location in documentaries and historical films. Take a moment to reflect on the profound history and its impact on the civil rights movement.

Daily Highlights:

• Explore Graceland and Sun Studio, iconic music and film history locations.
• Immerse yourself in the energy of Beale Street.
• Learn about civil rights history at the National Civil Rights Museum.

Recommended Restaurants:

• The Arcade Restaurant: A historic spot featured in several films.
• Central BBQ: Known for its award-winning Memphis-style barbecue.

Driving Distance: Approximately 130 miles / 210 km

After breakfast, depart from Memphis and head to Nashville, the heart of country music. The drive features several intriguing stops with cultural and cinematic significance along the way:

Brownsville, Tennessee—Tina Turner Museum: Visit the one-room schoolhouse transformed into a museum dedicated to Tina Turner. While it may not be a film location, it celebrates her enduring influence, which has inspired many films and documentaries.

Jackson, Tennessee – The International Rockabilly Hall of Fame: Located about halfway to Nashville, this museum honours rockabilly music, a genre often showcased in films about the early days of rock 'n' roll. It's a fun cultural stop for both music and movie enthusiasts.

Hurricane Mills, Tennessee—Loretta Lynn's Ranch: The home of the Queen of Country Music was featured in the movie Coal Miner's Daughter. Explore the museum, home, and gift shop, or take a guided tour to learn about Loretta Lynn's life and legacy.

Arrive in Nashville by early afternoon and check into your hotel. Begin exploring this vibrant city by visiting Music Row, the heart of Nashville's music industry, where many iconic songs have been produced. Stroll along Honky Tonk Highway to enjoy live music in legendary venues.

For dinner, head to The Southern Steak & Oyster, which offers a modern twist on classic Southern cuisine. End your evening by immersing yourself in Nashville's lively nightlife or enjoying a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry or the Ryman Auditorium.

Daily Highlights:

• Discover cultural landmarks on the drive from Memphis to Nashville.
• Immerse yourself in Nashville's music scene.
• Enjoy live music at iconic venues.

Recommended Restaurants:

• The Southern Steak & Oyster: Known for its innovative Southern cuisine.
• Hattie B's Hot Chicken: A casual spot famous for Nashville's signature dish.

Driving Distance: Approximately 210 miles / 338 km

Spend the day exploring Nashville's rich cultural and cinematic heritage. While the city is renowned as the heart of country music, it has also been featured in numerous films and TV shows. Start your morning with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, an iconic landmark that has appeared in documentaries and music-themed films. Browse the museum's extensive exhibits to learn about the legends of country music.

Next, stroll through Music Row, where countless hits have been recorded. This historic district has been featured in movies such as Coal Miner's Daughter and TV series like Nashville. Don't miss a stop at the historic RCA Studio B, where music icons like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded some of their most famous tracks. Guided tours offer fascinating insights into the history of the music industry.

In the afternoon, visit The Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the Greek original featured in the film Nashville. Located in Centennial Park, it offers a unique blend of cultural history and cinematic charm. After that, explore The Johnny Cash Museum, which is dedicated to the life and career of the Man in Black, whose music and story have inspired countless films and documentaries.

If time permits, make your way to The Bluebird Cafe, a world-famous venue renowned for its intimate performances by up-and-coming artists and established songwriters. It garnered international fame through the TV series Nashville.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at The Farm House, celebrated for its farm-to-table approach to classic Southern cuisine. Conclude your day with a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry or the Ryman Auditorium, where the magic of Nashville's music scene truly comes alive.

Daily Highlights:

• Immerse yourself in Nashville's music history at iconic landmarks.
• Visit filming locations like The Parthenon and The Bluebird Cafe.
• Enjoy authentic Southern cuisine and live music.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant: Southern comfort food and live music.
• The Farm House: Known for its fresh, farm-to-table Southern dishes.
• Loveless Cafe: A must-visit for classic biscuits and Southern fare.

After breakfast, depart Nashville and head south towards Atlanta, with a planned stop in Chattanooga to explore its cultural and cinematic landmarks. Chattanooga offers a blend of historic locations and scenic beauty that have been featured in notable films.

Begin your journey with a drive to Chattanooga, aiming to arrive by late morning. Your first stop is the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, featured in films like October Sky and Water for Elephants. Take a brief tour to learn about the golden age of railroads and their significance in cinema. If time allows, consider hopping on a short scenic train ride to immerse yourself fully in the experience.

Next, visit Engel Stadium, a stand-in for Brooklyn's Ebbets Field in the Jackie Robinson biopic 42. This historic site offers a nostalgic glimpse into baseball's past and its representation on screen.

After lunch, head to the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. While it may not be tied to a specific blockbuster, it is a popular filming location providing stunning Tennessee River views. Alternatively, you can visit the Market Street Bridge, featured in Identity Thief, for some cinematic photos.

Finally, make a quick stop at the Chattanooga Choo Choo, a historic train station turned hotel inspired by the Glenn Miller song. While it hasn't been featured in a specific movie, it remains an iconic piece of railroad history worth exploring.

Continue your drive to Atlanta, arriving in the late afternoon. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. For dinner, consider dining at Mary Mac's Tea Room, a classic Atlanta institution known for its Southern comfort food.

Daily Highlights:

• Discover Chattanooga's cinematic and cultural landmarks.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through the Tennessee Valley.
• Arrive in Atlanta to begin your exploration of its movie history.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Old Man Rivers Table & Tavern: A laid-back Chattanooga eatery known for Southern comfort food, local brews, and riverside charm
• Mary Mac's Tea Room: A must-visit for classic Southern comfort food in Atlanta.

Driving Distance: Approximately 250 miles / 400 km (with stops)

Explore Atlanta's rich cinematic history and locations featured in some of Hollywood's biggest films. Begin your day with a visit to Woodruff Park, a versatile filming location that has served as Central Park in Anchorman 2 and appeared in movies like Identity Thief and The Change-Up. This urban green space perfectly blends city views and historical significance.

Next, visit the Atlanta History Center, home to the Swan House, famously known as President Snow's mansion in The Hunger Games. Tour the elegant estate, featuring manicured gardens and iconic architecture, while learning about its cinematic transformation.

Continue to the Fox Theatre, a stunning historic venue featured in films like Driving Miss Daisy and Anchorman 2. Take a guided tour to admire its ornate interiors and learn about its storied past.

For lunch, visit Mary Mac's Tea Room, a beloved Atlanta institution serving traditional Southern comfort food such as fried chicken, collard greens, and peach cobbler.

After lunch, explore the Porsche Experience Center, a sleek, futuristic facility that appeared as Avengers HQ in Captain America: Civil War. Test your driving skills on the track, tour the Heritage Gallery, or enjoy coffee while overlooking the test circuit.

Wrap up your day with a visit to Agnes Scott College, a picturesque campus featured in Scream 2, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Driving Miss Daisy. Stroll through its beautifully maintained grounds and soak in the collegiate atmosphere.

Daily Highlights:

• Explore iconic filming locations, including the Fox Theatre and Swan House.
• Visit the Porsche Experience Center for a unique driving and cinematic experience.
• Stroll the scenic campus of Agnes Scott College.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Atlanta Breakfast Club: A popular spot in Atlanta serving classic Southern breakfast dishes with a modern twist and a welcoming vibe.
• Canoe: Perfect for a sophisticated riverside dining experience.

Today, take a cinematic journey through three charming Georgia towns that have earned their place in Hollywood history. Start with a drive to Juliette, the filming location for the classic movie Fried Green Tomatoes. Visit the Whistle Stop Café, a fully functioning restaurant that mirrors its famous on-screen counterpart. Enjoy a hearty Southern breakfast or lunch, and don't forget to try the dish that inspired the movie's title—fried green tomatoes!

After your meal, stroll through Juliette's quaint streets, where time seems to have stood still. Pop into local shops and soak in the small-town charm that made it the perfect backdrop for this iconic film.

Next, head to Conyers, the filming location for The Originals and its predecessor, The Vampire Diaries. Walk through Olde Town Conyers, which was transformed to resemble New Orleans for the shows. Iconic locations include Jardin Gris Voodoo Shop and The Cauldron, both key settings for supernatural intrigue. Fans of the shows will love spotting familiar sights while exploring the town's historic district.

Before returning to Atlanta, visit Jackson, Georgia, the fictional town of Hawkins in the hit series Stranger Things. Explore the recognizable town square, capturing photos of iconic locations like the Hawkins Library and Hawkins Middle School. It's a must-see for fans of the show.

End your day back in Atlanta with dinner at Ration and Dram, a relaxed neighbourhood restaurant known for its locally sourced ingredients and inventive takes on Southern cuisine. Alternatively, enjoy a casual meal at one of Atlanta's vibrant food halls, such as Ponce City Market, where you can sample dishes from a variety of top chefs.

Daily Highlights:

• Relive Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café in Juliette.
• Walk the streets of Olde Town Conyers, featured in The Originals.
• Visit iconic Stranger Things filming locations in Jackson.
• Savour locally inspired dining in Atlanta.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Whistle Stop Café: A must-visit for fans of Fried Green Tomatoes and Southern comfort food.
• Dead End Drinks: Known for its creative take on Southern dishes.
• Ponce City Market: A vibrant hub for diverse culinary experiences.

Driving Distance: Approximately 106 miles / 170 km

Depart from Atlanta after breakfast to begin your journey south to Montgomery. Your first stop will be Senoia, a town renowned for its connections to iconic film and television productions. Senoia is famously known as the fictional town of Woodbury from The Walking Dead, where fans can explore various filming locations and themed shops in the historic downtown area. Additionally, fans of Fried Green Tomatoes will appreciate visiting the Fried Green Tomatoes House, a notable site from the film.

Next, continue to LaFayette, where the charming town square served as the backdrop for significant scenes in Mississippi Burning. Stroll through the square and admire the small-town setting that attracted Hollywood's attention.

Your final stop before reaching Montgomery is Opelika, featured in the Oscar-winning film Norma Rae. Although the original mill is no longer standing, you can visit the Golden Cherry Motel, a location highlighted in the movie, to connect with its cinematic heritage.

Arrive in Montgomery by late afternoon, where you can check into your hotel and relax. For dinner, consider heading to Central, a highly-rated restaurant that offers modern Southern cuisine in a stylish setting.

Daily Highlights:

• Visit Senoia, a hub for filming iconic movies and TV shows.
• Discover LaFayette's connection to Mississippi Burning.
• Explore Opelika, featured in Norma Rae.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Central (Montgomery): Known for its innovative take on Southern classics.
• Dreamland BBQ (Montgomery): A casual spot for authentic Alabama-style barbecue.

Driving Distance: Approximately 160 miles / 257 km

Start your day with a drive to Selma, a city rich in Civil Rights history and famously depicted in the award-winning film Selma. Your first stop will be the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of the Bloody Sunday march in 1965 and a key filming location. Walk across this iconic bridge and reflect on its historical and cinematic significance. Be sure to visit the Selma Interpretive Center to learn more about the events that inspired the movie.

Next, just outside Montgomery, stop at Jackson Lake Island, the whimsical filming location for the fictional town of Spectre in Tim Burton's Big Fish. Take a stroll through the remains of the set, where you'll discover charming houses, quirky props, and the shoe-covered poles that marked the town's entrance.

Continue your journey to Monroeville, often called the "Literary Capital of Alabama." Visit the Monroe County Museum, located in the Old Courthouse, which served as the model for the courtroom in the film adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. Explore exhibits dedicated to Harper Lee and Truman Capote, who called Monroeville home. While in town, enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets that inspired Lee's novel.

In the afternoon, head to Mobile, a port city with a diverse history and connections to the film industry. Check out the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, featured in films like Under Siege and USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage. Tour the battleship and learn about its naval history and cinematic appearances.

Conclude your day with a stroll through Mobile's historic downtown district, where landmarks like the Battle House Hotel were used in Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Daily Highlights:

• Reflect on Civil Rights history at the Edmund Pettus Bridge.
• Visit Monroeville, the inspiration for To Kill a Mockingbird.
• Tour cinematic and historical landmarks in Mobile.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Dew Drop Inn Restaurant: A must-visit for movie buffs and classic American dishes.
• Noja Fine Dining: Perfect for a sophisticated dining experience in Mobile.

Driving Distance: Approximately 200 miles / 322 km

Spend the morning exploring Mobile further. For movie buffs, the Battle House Hotel and other cinematic landmarks offer a last chance to soak in the city's rich film history.

After a relaxed morning, begin your drive to New Orleans Airport. If time permits, take a stop in Biloxi, Mississippi. Known for its vibrant casino scene and Gulf Coast charm, Biloxi has been the backdrop for movies such as The Card Counter (2021), with scenes filmed at the Golden Nugget Casino. Enjoy a brief visit to explore the scenic waterfront, grab a bite to eat, or try your luck at one of the casinos.

Continue your journey to New Orleans Airport, arriving in time to drop off your rental car and catch your flight home. Reflect on the incredible cinematic and cultural experiences of your journey through the southern United States.