Taking a 5-day solo road trip from Pensacola to New Orleans can be a fun adventure for single empty-nesters. The Gulf Coast offers a picturesque route for those seeking the picture-perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural richness. For senior women with a sense of wanderlust like myself, a 5-day journey from Pensacola, Florida, to New Orleans, Louisiana, along Highway 90 promises an unforgettable experience. Buckle up as I guide you through this mini vacation, providing itineraries and invaluable tips for navigating the Gulf Coast highways with confidence. Grab your camera and put on a spirit of adventure for this relaxing drive along the Central Gulf Coast.
Tips for a Confident Solo Road Trip:
* Safety First: Inform a friend or family member of your itinerary and check in regularly. Keep emergency contacts easily accessible.
* Plan Accommodations in Advance: Research and book accommodations along your route in advance to ensure a comfortable and safe stay.
* Keep your vehicle in good repair: Check your fluids and tires before setting out, and consider a roadside assistance plan for added peace of mind.
* Breaks and Stretching: Take regular breaks to stretch your legs and stay alert. Use rest areas and scenic spots for a rejuvenating break.
* Stay Connected: Carry a fully charged phone and a car charger.
* Be observant: Pay attention to what is going on around you. Trust your gut, not just on a road trip, but at all times.
* Enjoy the Journey: Embrace the spontaneity of the road trip experience. Allow for detours and unexpected discoveries along the way.
Day 1: Pensacola, Florida to Gulf Shores, Alabama
Kickstart the first day of your trip in Pensacola, soaking in the coastal charm and historic vibes. Historic downtown has a variety of shops and art galleries to check out and if you are there on the weekend, you may have the opportunity to stroll through a farmer’s market or craft fair.
Visit the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum for breathtaking views of the emerald waters of the Gulf. Be sure to tour the lighthouse keeper’s home, as well. It provides a real sense of what life may have been like for the families that manned the lights along the shores of the Gulf Coast. It is also well worth your time to also visit the nearby Naval Air Museum. Just be sure to check the rules and regulations before you go as both of these sites are on a military base.
As you head west on Highway 90, make a pit stop at Perdido Key State Park for a peaceful beachside stroll. The park is open from 8:00 AM until sunset and there is a small fee to get in. Boardwalks from the parking lot allow visitors to access the beach without causing damage to the fragile dunes and beach vegetation. Covered picnic tables overlooking the beach shady spot for a picnic brunch.
Continue your drive to Gulf Shores, Alabama, where the pristine beaches and delicious seafood await. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, home to over 300 animals. For overnight accommodations, consider making reservations to stay in a cabin at Gulf State Park.
Day 2: Gulf Shores to Gulfport, Mississippi
As you continue your 5-day solo road trip through Alabama, take the scenic route down Ft. Morgan Rd. Spend some time exploring the fort and the surrounding grounds which include a sandy white beach that curves around the fort facing first the gulf and then Mobile Bay.
After your fort tour, catch the Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island, weather permitting. The short ferry ride gives you plenty of time to view the distant Sand Island light house and nearby gas rigs as you cross Mobile Bay. Don’t be surprised to spot dolphins dancing in the waves below the vessel.
You can also visit Ft. Gaines when you arrive on Dauphin Island. It is a much smaller fort. Stop in at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, too, for a relaxing nature walk that takes you through a maritime forest, over sandy dunes and onto tranquil white beaches. Check out the freshwater lake in the middle of the sanctuary and you’ll likely see a gator relaxing on the marshy banks. If you have time, you could also visit the shell mounds and get a glimpse of the remains of an ancient civilization that called the island home.
Follow the Alabama Coastal Connection route through Bayou La Batre and Grand Bay. Be sure you drive around both Coden Belt Rd. and Shell Belt road to get a close up view of the shorebirds that call Portersville Bay home. The road hugs the coastline with only a few feet between the pavement and the warm waters of Portersville Bay which is a part of the Gulf of Mexico. Expect to see brown pelicans, seagulls, egrets, and great blue herons among other birds and coastal wildlife. Be sure to stop at Lightning Point and watch a shrimp boat go by.
If the ferry is not running, leave Gulf Shores taking the longer route west following the highway to the north side of Mobile Bay. Be sure to explore the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park on the Mobile Causeway along the way. Battleship Memorial Park has a large complex with a multitude of aircraft on display in addition the Battleship USS Alabama. There is also a submarine that you can tour. Continue west on HWY 90 to Mississippi. This route will take you through some of the historic areas of Mobile and continue through the sprawling suburbs that slowly fade into more rural communities on both sides of the Alabama and Mississippi state lines.
Take a minute in Pascagoula to stop and see the Round Island Lighthouse. It was moved to the base of the Pascagoula Bridge after several attempts to restore the structure in its original location. Rarely, tours are available on weekends, but just getting out for a closer look is worth a stop.
As you travel further west on HWY 90, you will eventually come into Ocean Springs, a delightful coastal town known for it’s arts district and railroad history. Stopping by some of the shops and art galleries is time well spent for creatives such as myself. Continue over the bridge and you will arrive in the casino capital of the Central Gulf Coast. Biloxi’s vibrant coastal culture and beachside attractions beckon travelers keen for excitement and nightlife. While that’s not my scene, I have dined a couple of times in the lavish buffets of the resorts. Be sure to visit the Biloxi Light House and Visitor Center, and/or the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art then enjoy a stroll along the waterfront of Biloxi’s picturesque Beach Boulevard.
Take a short drive further west to Gulfport and stay at the quaint and cozy Almanett Hotel and Bistro. After checking in, take a short walk to Jones Park and check out the small craft marina and a replica of the Ship Island Lighthouse at sunset.
Day 3: Gulfport to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Before leaving Gulfport, visit the Mississippi Aquarium and then stroll over to the nearby Gulfport Art Center. You can also enjoy checking out some of the historic buildings of downtown before continuing your journey westward on Beach Blvd through Long Beach to Pass Christian. Take a little time to check out the harbor and historic downtown of this lovely coastal town. The harbor has a mix of commercial fishing vessels, crew boats, private yachts, and sailboats.
Continue with a short drive to Bay St. Louis, a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast. Known for its artistic community and charming historic district, take a stroll down Main Street, exploring boutique shops and art galleries before heading to Pearlington and taking a river cruise to a swamp walk. Head back to Bay St. Louis and relax by the bay at the waterfront and savor the local cuisine at one of the many seafood restaurants. Check out one of the many affordable accommodations on Airbnb for overnight accommodations in this quaint coastal town.
Day 4: Bay St. Louis to New Orleans, Louisiana
Crossing into Louisiana, launch into the final stretch of your road trip by visiting the Infinity Space Science Center for an out of this world experience. Stop in Slidell for a taste of the local flavors, and then venture into the vibrant city of New Orleans. Immerse yourself in the rich history and lively atmosphere of the French Quarter. Explore Jackson Square, savor beignets at Café du Monde, and experience the lively street artists and shop at the French Market. Consider staying at Le Pavillon Hotel in downtown New Orleans. You’ll be captivated by its history and glamor.
Day 5: Exploring New Orleans
Devote your last day to fully embracing the magic of New Orleans. Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi, visit the iconic Garden District, and indulge in the city’s renowned cuisine. For a unique experience, consider joining a walking tour or a jazz brunch. As the sun sets over the Mississippi River, reflect on the incredible memories made during your solo road trip along the Gulf Coast.
