Highway of Soul: A Musical Road Trip from New Orleans to Chicago
There's no better way to experience the story of American music than by taking the scenic route from New Orleans to Chicago in an RV, campervan, or motorhome. This 14-day road trip along the legendary Blues Highway US-61 is a vibrant blend of rhythm, history, and down-home hospitality, making it a perfect choice for families looking to turn the road into a classroom — or a dance floor.
Your road trip planning starts with the soul-stirring streets of New Orleans. Stroll through the French Market and let the kids pick out a praline or two while live jazz spills from every corner. The New Orleans Jazz Museum is a must — both fun and educational, it traces the roots of this genre that shaped the world. Add a guided Southern Carriage Tour to introduce the whole family to the stories behind the wrought-iron balconies and Spanish moss.
As you steer your campervan northward along US-61, the Oak Alley Plantation offers a dramatic view into antebellum history — complete with its famous canopy of live oaks. Continuing into Mississippi, the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians is an inspiring cultural stop, showcasing the deep roots of indigenous history.
Music starts to take over as you reach Indianola, where the B.B. King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center pays tribute to the King of the Blues in a way that's both heartfelt and interactive. Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale adds live music to the mix — many shows are family-friendly earlier in the evening.
Your next rhythm break arrives in Memphis, and it’s packed with hits: the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum, Elvis’s Recording Room, the playful Memphis Zoo, and the touching Johnny Cash Museum. Round it all off with a Memphis classic at The Arcade Restaurant, where kids and adults alike can enjoy a milkshake at a booth once favored by The King.
Rolling into Nashville, the soundtrack shifts to country. The Country Music Hall of Fame is an engaging stop for visitors of all ages, and you might even catch a free outdoor concert depending on the season. RV campgrounds around Nashville are often well-equipped, making this a great place to pause and recharge.
From Tennessee into Missouri, make time for a detour to Garden of the Gods — a scenic marvel that adds a natural balance to the musical itinerary. The Saline Creek Pioneer Village is a step back in time, where children can see what life was like for early settlers.
The beat returns in St. Louis at the National Blues Museum, where hands-on exhibits let kids test out instruments or mix a virtual blues track. Don't miss dinner at BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups, which combines great music and southern cuisine in a lively but welcoming atmosphere.
As you near the final leg of your route, stop in Funks Grove for pure maple syrup straight from the source — a sweet way to wrap up the journey. Then, history comes full circle at the Muddy Waters MOJO Museum, honoring the blues legend whose music bridged the South and the North.
The skyscrapers of Chicago mark the grand finale of your road trip. Stretch your legs at the Chicago Premium Outlets, or treat the family to one last meal downtown while reflecting on your travels through music, memory, and melody.
rv travel Tips
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How to plan a motorhome trip in the USA from New Orleans to Chicago? Start by mapping your route with a trusted camper route planner, and book campgrounds near major cities in advance — especially around Memphis and Nashville.
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Opt for an RV or motorhome with both A/C and heating — spring and fall temperatures can vary widely between states.
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Pack picnic gear! Many stops along this route have scenic rest areas perfect for lunch breaks, especially in the rural stretches of Mississippi and Missouri.
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This route is filled with local music venues and museums — check for family-friendly hours or matinee performances.
From the steamy jazz clubs of New Orleans to the soulful skyline of Chicago, this motorhome road trip is more than a vacation — it’s a cross-country celebration of music, heritage, and American spirit. Whether you're traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, the New Orleans to Chicago camper route planner is your guide to turning a stretch of highway into a lifetime of memories.
