Without going into the complicated details, we find that we will be in NOLA over New Years (12/28 - 1/4), but can't fly out until 1/9. I don't think my waistline could take another 5 days in NO. So, what suggestions can you give for a road trip being back in NO for our flight 5 days later?
My wife and I are retired, 67 and 66 years old, travel a lot, but have never really been anywhere in Louisiana, Alabama, or Mississippi.

I would recommend driving the Natchez Trace highway. You'd have to head north to Natchez, an interesting town worth an overnight stay. Then take the Trace northeast. There are interesting and historical things to see along the way, well marked on the map you get when you start. A side trip to Vicksburg is also worth an overnight stay (lots of civil war history).
The Trace goes all the way to Nashville, but that might make a 5-day round trip a little tight. It can be done, but if time gets short, you can leave the Trace anywhere along the way and return to NO.

I might suggest a triangular trip. Head first to Montgomery and the new civil rights memorial and museum. Then go back through Vicksburg and Jackson. That would be a great trip with plenty of history and more great food.

Have you considered adding Cajun Country? I can't locate my trip report, but search other reports and you will get you some good ideas.

If you love food and music, I cannot think of a better idea than Cajun country; we rented a car and drove from New Orleans two winters ago....superlative! Next time I might drive north along the river and explore the food of the Delta and surrounds, along with any music I can find (tamales and blues!) .....Memphis sounds great to me, too, cause I am a big BBQ person....

We stayed in a lovely B&B outside Eunice and had great crawfish dinner, and music and dancing!! at DI's...One of the best trips I've taken within the US:

Eunice B&B: Fabulous space and charming and helpful owner:

Le Village Bed and Breakfast


Home - D.I.'s Cajun Restaurant

Have you considered visiting Mobile? It is a charming city. Also Fairhope on the other side of the bay. And you could gamble in Biloxi.

An article in an RV magazine mentioned Thibodaux. Any recommendations there?