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Summary

This Florida to New Orleans road trip guide offers a blend of natural beauty, historical exploration, and unique dining experiences. From the world's longest bridge to serene wildlife refuges, historical forts, and white sand beaches, this itinerary is packed with diverse attractions. The journey concludes with a relaxing stay in Pensacola, making it a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Day 1: Exploring Lake Pontchartrain

Start your road trip with a drive over the world's longest bridge over Lake Pontchartrain, offering unique views and a great kick-off to the adventure.

Lake Pontchartrain Causeway

A marvel of engineering, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is a 24-mile-long bridge that offers a unique and breathtaking perspective over the expansive Lake Pontchartrain, providing an unforgettable experience for road trippers.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Lake Pontchartrain Causeway southbound", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlHV-KVKhL0", "channel": { "name": "roadwaywiz"}, "published_date": "May 5, 2023", "length": "21:28" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "The World's Longest Overwater Bridge (the Lake ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZMdIsBvMRs", "channel": { "name": "The HighwayMan"}, "published_date": "Oct 28, 2013", "length": "7:50" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "\u2074\u1d37 Lake Pontchartrain Causeway northbound [4K VIDEO]", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1kiUheSz08", "channel": { "name": "roadwaywiz"}, "published_date": "1 month ago", "length": "31:29" }</div>

Tips

Try to cross during sunset for awe-inspiring views, as the sun's golden hues reflect off the tranquil waters, creating a picturesque setting for memorable photographs.

Day 2: Gulfport to Fort Morgan

Explore the unique Brother Paul Cemetery in Gulfport, take a scenic ferry ride from Dauphin Island, and discover the historical Fort Morgan Peninsula.

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Brother Paul Cemetery

Brother Paul Cemetery in Gulfport, Mississippi, is a serene and picturesque cemetery adorned with unique white headstones, surrounded by vibrant nature. The repeating white headstones, reminiscent of Arlington, mark the graves of Catholic brothers, creating a tranquil and reflective atmosphere.

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Tips

Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the cemetery's design and natural surroundings.

Mobile Bay Ferry

The Mobile Bay Ferry offers a delightful 40-minute ride, providing breathtaking views of Mobile Bay. The journey across the bay from Dauphin Island is a perfect opportunity to soak in the coastal beauty and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

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Tips

Check the ferry schedule in advance and consider visiting Dauphin Island to explore its attractions, including Fort Gaines, white sand beaches, an Audubon property, and an aquarium.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (251) 861-3000
🌐   Website: http://mobilebayferry.com/
📍   Address: 112 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
🔗   Profiles: Facebook

Fort Morgan Peninsula

The Fort Morgan Peninsula in Alabama is home to a historical fort with captivating hiking opportunities and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Fort Morgan, which has guarded Mobile Bay since 1834, offers visitors a glimpse into its rich history, featuring cannons, tunnels, and brick walls, all set against the backdrop of sweeping gulf vistas.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Gulf Shores, AL | Fort Morgan History is Unbelievable", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzucgIbXxmY", "channel": { "name": "Brad Beaird"}, "published_date": "Mar 3, 2023", "length": "9:15" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "BEST BEACH LIVING is on Fort Morgan, Alabama ~Walk to ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MC6R86P6p8c", "channel": { "name": "Michele Bennett"}, "published_date": "Jun 17, 2022", "length": "5:55" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "A Day at the Beach | Fort Morgan, AL", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2hnmFYNmpc", "channel": { "name": "Getting Fresh Air"}, "published_date": "Sep 2, 2022", "length": "2:10" }</div>

Tips

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort and trails, and be prepared to navigate the steep stairs leading to the top of the fort's walls.

🌿 Day 3: Nature and Beaches in Alabama

Discover the natural beauty of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and the white sand beaches of Gulf Shores, followed by a unique dining experience.

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🌿 Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Nestled in the heart of Alabama, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge offers a serene escape into diverse ecosystems, featuring picturesque hiking trails that wind through lush forests and tranquil swamps.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Welcome to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, Oct. 21 ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2-LDuD2Mxs", "channel": { "name": "Destination Alabama"}, "published_date": "Oct 21, 2019", "length": "4:47" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Guide", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDPyy3Kcv2E", "channel": { "name": "TripShock"}, "published_date": "Apr 20, 2021", "length": "2:02" }</div>

Tips

Follow the Pine Beach Trail for a scenic hike to Little Lagoon, where you can soak in breathtaking views of the surrounding natural splendor.

🌿 Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park, a coastal gem, boasts two miles of pristine white sand beaches and an extensive network of 28 miles of trails, providing an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating beauty of the Gulf Shores. The park's diverse landscapes, including estuaries and sand dunes, offer an ideal setting for hiking, birding, and photography.

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Tips

Take advantage of the free bike share program to explore the park's trails, allowing you to leisurely pedal along the scenic pathways and soak in the coastal vistas.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (251) 948-7275
🌐   Website: https://www.alapark.com/parks/gulf-state-park
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 2 hours
📍   Address: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
🔗   Profiles: Facebook Instagram X (Twitter)

🌿 Lambert’s Cafe

Lambert’s Cafe in Foley, Alabama, is renowned for its unique dining experience and family-style southern meals. The highlight of the visit is the tradition of "throwed rolls," where hot, freshly baked rolls are playfully tossed to diners at their tables, adding an element of fun and excitement to the dining experience.

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Tips

Be prepared for a one-of-a-kind dining adventure and don't miss the opportunity to savor their delectable apple butter, a delightful accompaniment to the hearty southern fare.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (251) 943-7655
🌐   Website: http://www.throwedrolls.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1-1.5 hours
📍   Address: 2981 S McKenzie St, Foley, AL 36535

🏖️ Day 4: Relaxing in Pensacola Beach

Conclude your road trip with a relaxing day at Pensacola Beach, enjoying the hotel amenities and the beautiful beach.

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🏨 Surf and Sand Hotel

The Surf and Sand Hotel is a moderately priced hotel located on the cove side of the peninsula, offering a tranquil retreat with access to the beach. The hotel provides daily breakfast and complimentary use of bikes, kayaks, and paddle boards, allowing guests to explore the picturesque surroundings at their leisure.

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Tips

Take advantage of the included amenities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Pensacola Beach and make the most of your stay.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +18509345400
🌐   Website: https://surfandsandhotelpensacolabeach.com/
📍   Address: 40 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
🔗   Profiles: X (Twitter) Instagram Facebook

🗼 Pensacola Lighthouse

The Pensacola Lighthouse, steeped in history, offers guided tours that provide insight into the maritime heritage of the area. Perched on the picturesque coastline, the lighthouse presents a captivating opportunity to delve into the region's seafaring past and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf Shore.

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Tips

To visit the Pensacola Lighthouse, it is advisable to book a guided bus tour in advance, ensuring a memorable and informative experience.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (850) 393-1561
🌐   Website: http://www.pensacolalighthouse.org/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1 hour
📍   Address: 2081 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32508
🔗   Profiles: X (Twitter) Facebook