14-Day Coastal Southern Road Trip: Savannah to Key West
We’re starting on a once-in-a-lifetime 14-day coastal southern journey that starts in historic Savannah and winds down in sunny Key West. We’ll head through major stops like Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Wilmington, Jacksonville, and Miami, encountering scenic views, diverse attractions, and cultural highlights at each turn.
From the cobblestone streets of Savannah’s Historic District to the tropical charm of Key West, this road trip delivers the very best of Southern coastal culture. Each day boasts its unique set of adventures and attractions, and trust us, there’s so much more to this journey than meets the eye. Stick with us to uncover the rest.
Day 1-2: Exploring Savannah
We’re kicking off our coastal Southern road trip with a two-day exploration of Savannah, Georgia. Known for its historic architecture and southern charm, Savannah promises an unforgettable start to our journey.
First, we’ll meander through the city’s Historic District, home to cobblestone streets and picturesque parks. We’ll make a point to visit Forsyth Park, a 30-acre oasis with a famous white fountain, offering a perfect backdrop for photos. We’ll then explore the city’s River Street, lined with century-old buildings, eclectic shops, and delectable restaurants.
Safety is paramount, so we’ll navigate the city using marked crosswalks, observing traffic signals, and keeping our belongings secure at all times. While Savannah is a very walkable city, we’ll assure you that the local public transportation is equally safe and efficient.
On our second day, we’ll investigate Savannah’s rich history by visiting the Mercer Williams House Museum and the Civil Rights Museum. We’ll wrap up the day with a ghost tour, an entertaining yet safe way to learn about the city’s haunted past.
Savannah’s enchanting allure is just the beginning. Up next, we’re headed to the historic city of Charleston.
Day 3-4: Charleston Charm
On the third day of our coastal Southern road trip, we’ll set our sights on the enchanting city of Charleston, South Carolina. This city, steeped in history, is a haven for travelers seeking a blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. We’ll start our day at the historic Charleston City Market, where we can find local artisans selling their wares. Remember, it’s always safer to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
Then, we’ll enjoy a carriage ride through the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter. Don’t worry, these tours are guided and safe, providing a leisurely way to soak in the rich architecture and history. We’ll make sure to stop by Rainbow Row, the longest cluster of Georgian row houses in the United States.
Our fourth day will be spent exploring the stunning plantations around Charleston. We suggest a visit to the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, a representation of Southern beauty. They offer guided tours ensuring a secure, informative experience. As the sun sets, we’ll head back into town for some authentic Lowcountry cuisine. We’ll round off the day feeling satiated and safe, ready for the next leg of our journey.
Day 5-6: Myrtle Beach Escapade
Leaving the historic charm of Charleston behind, our coastal road trip continues towards the sandy shores of Myrtle Beach. As we hit the road early, we’re greeted with a picturesque sunrise that paints the sky with hues of pink and orange. The drive is a comfortable one, with lush greenery on one side and the blue ocean on the other.
Our first stop in Myrtle Beach is the iconic SkyWheel. Standing at a towering 187 feet, it’s an experience you can’t miss. We strap ourselves in, and as the wheel turns, we’re treated to panoramic views of the city and the ocean. Don’t worry, the gondolas are glass-enclosed and climate-controlled for safety and comfort.
Next, we head to Broadway at the Beach, a large shopping complex with boutiques, eateries, and attractions. We can’t resist popping into Ripley’s Aquarium, where we marvel at the vibrant marine life through the safety of an acrylic tunnel.
As the sun sets, we find ourselves at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Lined with cafes and shops, it’s the perfect place to stroll, unwind, and soak in the coastal vibes. The illuminated skyline makes it a magical end to our Myrtle Beach escapade.
Day 7-8: Wilmington’s Historical Walks
Bidding goodbye to Myrtle Beach, our coastal journey takes us to the historic city of Wilmington. Nestled by the Cape Fear River, Wilmington’s charm lies in its Southern hospitality and rich history. We’ll soak in the city’s past with a historical walking tour, a safe and enlightening way to explore the city.
The Wilmington Historic District, a National Register Historic District, is our first stop. We’ll stroll through streets lined with majestic oak trees and admire the antebellum architecture of more than 230 blocks. Safety is a priority here, with well-maintained sidewalks and helpful signage.
Next, we’ll head to the Riverwalk, a scenic mile-long boardwalk along the Cape Fear River. We’ll be mindful of our footing to guarantee safety, but the views of the river and the USS North Carolina Battleship make every step worthwhile.
Wilmington’s history also lives in its cemeteries. We can safely pay a visit to the Oakdale Cemetery, the oldest rural cemetery in North Carolina with beautiful Victorian funerary art.
Remember to use crosswalks, stay hydrated, and dress comfortably for our walking tour. Wilmington’s history awaits us, let’s tread carefully and relish every moment.
Day 9-10: Jacksonville’s Coastal Wonders
After soaking up Wilmington’s rich history, we set our sights on Jacksonville, ready to explore its coastal wonders. Jacksonville, the largest city in Florida, boasts magnificent coastlines and an abundance of natural beauty, providing an extensive list of safe and exciting activities we can’t wait to share with you.
- The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: With over 2,000 rare and exotic animals, this is a safe haven for wildlife lovers. Don’t forget to check out the botanical gardens too!
- Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park: Here, we spent a leisurely day of swimming, picnicking, and hiking. Its 1.5 mile public beach is well-maintained and lifeguarded.
- The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens: A feast for the eyes, this museum houses one of the finest art collections in the Southeast. Its beautifully manicured gardens are equally mesmerising.
- St. Johns River Ferry: We ended our day with a serene ferry ride across the St. Johns River at sunset.
We left Jacksonville feeling enriched by our encounters with nature and culture, enthusiastic to continue our coastal Southern road trip. Next stop? Miami’s vibrant life awaits!
Day 11-12: Miami’s Vibrant Life
As we rolled into Miami, the dynamic city immediately captivated us with its lively streets and vibrant energy. The sun shone brightly against the backdrop of art deco buildings, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that took our breath away. We were in the heart of South Beach, where there’s always something happening at every corner.
We started our exploration at the bustling Lincoln Road Mall, a pedestrian-only street that’s home to an array of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. For safety, we kept to the well-lit, crowded areas and always stayed aware of our surroundings. The people-watching here was exceptional, with an eclectic mix of locals and tourists bringing life to the vibrant street.
Next, we visited the iconic Art Deco Historic District, where we marveled at the pastel-colored buildings that line the streets. We took a guided tour, known for its safety and informative guides, and learned about the history and architecture of this unique area.
Our days in Miami were filled with laughter, discovery, and an appreciation for the city’s cultural diversity. As we left, we carried with us not only photos but also unforgettable memories of Miami’s vibrant life.
Day 13-14: Key West Paradise
We left the bustling energy of Miami behind, setting our sights on the laid-back charm of Key West. This tropical paradise, the southernmost point in the continental U.S., is famous for its clear turquoise waters, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
To truly experience Key West, we believe there are four must-do activities:
- Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. This Spanish Colonial style mansion was once the home of the famous writer and is now a National Historic Landmark.
- Explore the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. It’s a serene sanctuary filled with hundreds of butterflies and exotic birds.
- Take a sunset cruise. Nothing’s more magical than watching the sun sink into the ocean while on the water.
- Wander around Mallory Square. It’s a hub for entertainment, shopping, and dining.
