RV, camper and motorhome trip planning toolbox – The best ever created
Embarking on an RV journey from the upper Midwest to the deep South is an incredible way to experience the shifting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the United States. This itinerary follows the legendary Blues Highway (US 61), tracing the roots of American music from the lakes of Minnesota all the way to the jazz clubs of Louisiana.
| Total Distance | 2,249 mi |
| Recommended Duration | 16 Days |
| Start / End | Minneapolis, MN to New Orleans, LA |
| States Explored | Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, Wisconsin |
| Best For | Families, music lovers, and cultural explorers |
This 16-day adventure is perfectly suited for RV travel because it blends the convenience of a structured north-to-south route with the freedom to linger in fascinating towns along the way. Traveling 2,249 mi over a little more than two weeks provides a balanced pace, allowing you to embrace the philosophy of slow travel. Whether you are navigating a nimble campervan or a spacious motorhome, this route offers a fantastic mix of culture, cuisine, and scenery.
Because you cross ten different states, the transition in geography and local flavor is remarkable. You will start with the crisp air and urban energy of the Twin Cities, weave through the agricultural heartland, and eventually find yourself surrounded by the sultry, rhythm-filled atmosphere of the Mississippi Delta and New Orleans. It is a highly educational and deeply entertaining route for curious kids and adults alike.
A successful RV road trip relies on a well-paced rhythm. Rather than rushing from one state line to the next, this route is best enjoyed when broken down into regional stages. For the exact day-by-day plan, including specific campground recommendations, log into RV PLANET. Here is how the journey flows:
This route is packed with diverse experiences. While the full interactive map on RV PLANET will guide you to every stop, here are the primary themes you will encounter:
Your journey begins with high-energy family fun. In Minneapolis, catch a game at Target Field or spend hours browsing the massive Mall of America®. As you cross into Wisconsin, you can enjoy delightfully eccentric stops like the National Mustard Museum, which provides both laughs and curious taste tests for the whole family.
In Illinois, driving down South Lake Shore Drive offers sweeping, unforgettable views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. As you move away from the city, the route reveals hidden gems like Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup Farm, where you can learn about local industry and heritage. Look for RV-friendly parking in state parks or near urban transit to avoid downtown congestion when visiting larger cities.
As you venture further south along US 61, the themes shift heavily toward heritage and historical sites. You will pass through regions renowned for their musical contributions. Expect to discover art galleries, historical points of interest, and museums dedicated to the legendary singers of the blues. The culinary landscape also transforms, offering opportunities to dine at traditional restaurants that serve up authentic Southern cuisine.
To break up the driving days, this route features ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. From hiking areas and natural features along the Mississippi River to spots ideal for canoe and kayak excursions, there is plenty of space for families to stretch their legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the states you cross.
Absolutely. If you want a trip that offers a profound sense of place and history, the drive from Minneapolis to New Orleans is unmatched. It is a living history lesson combined with the freedom of the open road.
We recommend 16 days to comfortably cover the 2,249 mi distance. This allows for leisurely mornings, time to explore museums and historical sites, and the ability to enjoy the shifting landscapes without feeling rushed.
Spring and autumn are ideal. You will avoid the severe winter weather of the upper Midwest and the intense heat and humidity of the deep South in the middle of summer. Fall offers beautiful foliage in the northern states, while spring brings blooming landscapes in the south.
Planning a multi-state, one-way journey requires careful consideration of your vehicle and budget. Because you are starting in Minneapolis and ending in New Orleans, you will need to book a one-way rental. Be aware that one-way drop fees apply and vary by supplier.
When selecting your RV, consider a vehicle that balances comfort for a 16-day trip with maneuverability for urban stops. A Class C motorhome or a spacious campervan is often ideal. You will also need to factor in a mileage package that covers the 2,249 mi journey, plus a buffer for scenic detours. Beyond the rental cost, your budget should account for fuel, nightly campground fees (a mix of state parks and private RV resorts is best), groceries, and attraction tickets. For exact, real-time pricing and availability, use the search tools provided below.
From the lakes of Minnesota to the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans, this 16-day road trip is a remarkable way to experience the heart and soul of America. Gather the family, curate your perfect road trip playlist, and head over to RV PLANET to finalize your itinerary and secure your ideal RV today.
See the full polyline, drag stops to customize, and get live pricing in one click.
Open this route in RV PLAN →| Nearby RV rental stations | Use Rent Motorhome to find the closest pickup stations |
|---|---|
| Sample RV cost — 4 travelers (Class A / B / C) | {{BANDANA_PRICING_TABLE}} |
| Estimated fuel cost (total) | $750–$950 |
| Estimated campground cost (total) | $700–$1,150 |
| Estimated attractions & entrance fees — family of 4 | $450–$850 |
| Estimated groceries / self-catered food — family of 4 | $650–$950 |
| Live availability & pricing | Check live availability & pricing on Rent Motorhome → |
Estimate assumptions: Estimates assume 10 mpg for a standard Class C motorhome, average US gas prices, and a mix of state park and private campground stays. All figures are estimates — verify on Rent Motorhome and RV PLAN for your travel dates.
A high-level look at how the route flows in stages. The exact daily stops, overnight picks, and detour options are built for you inside RV PLAN — open the route to see the full plan.
Settle into your RV while exploring the urban energy of Minneapolis before crossing into Wisconsin for quirky local museums and relaxed driving.
Navigate the scenic shores of Illinois, taking in sweeping skyline views, before heading south into the agricultural heartland and maple syrup country.
Follow the Mississippi River corridor through Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee, where the musical heritage of the Blues Highway truly begins to resonate.
Immerse yourself in the deep musical roots of Mississippi and Alabama before concluding your journey amid the vibrant culture and cuisine of New Orleans.
Total cost for this 16-day itinerary depends on the rig you pick, the pickup season, mileage add-ons, and any one-way drop-off fee across the 2,249 mi route. Check live availability and a real quote for the Minneapolis → New Orleans pickup window on Rent Motorhome.
Live availability & pricing for this exact route
Prices update daily. See the full breakdown — nightly rate, taxes, one-way fee, mileage package — for your travel dates.
Pick your dates below and we'll open the live RV PLANET booking flow for the Minneapolis → New Orleans route.
Picking up in Minneapolis but want a shorter loop or a different destination? Compare these RV PLANET itineraries that depart from the same depot: