Road Trip By Mary Kay Andrews

I’ve always believed a road trip is more than just a journey—it’s an experience that stitches together the fabric of your soul with the landscapes you pass through. This past spring, I followed the winding route of a Mary Kay Andrews novel, a journey that took me from the misty mountains of Georgia to the sun-drenched coasts of South Carolina. The real magic wasn’t in the story, but in the road itself, the unexpected detours, and the people I met along the way. It was a trip that taught me that sometimes the best stories are the ones you write on your own.^[1]

What makes a Mary Kay Andrews road trip unforgettable isn’t the destination, but the rhythm of the journey. I found myself driving narrow backroads, sipping sweet tea at roadside stands, and stopping at gas stations that had more character than some restaurants. The keyword, 'road trip by Mary Kay Andrews,' isn’t just a title—it’s a call to wander, to explore, and to find wonder in the unexpected.^[2]

This trip wasn’t about checking off a list of places. About soaking in the details: the scent of pine in the mountains, the way the sun painted the sky over the Atlantic, and the friendly banter with a local who had lived in the same town for 50 years. That’s the real heart of a Mary Kay Andrews road trip—it’s about the stories you live, not the ones you read.

Getting Started: Mapping the Journey

As of September 2026, I began my journey in Dahlonega, Georgia, a small town nestled in the North Georgia mountains. The air was crisp and the roads were quiet, perfect for a slow start. I had mapped out six stops, each with its own unique flavor—some historical, some scenic, and some just plain charming.

The first leg of the trip took me through the Blue Ridge Parkway, where the views were so breathtaking that I almost forgot to drive. I stopped at a overlook called Dragon’s Back, where the mountains rolled like waves in the distance. It was a moment of pure awe, and I knew this trip was going to be special.

With a detailed itinerary and a GPS that wasn’t always reliable, I leaned on the instinct of a true traveler—trust the road, the people. The signs that point you where you need to be.

Part of our Road trip guide.

Stop 1: Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain Park was my first major stop, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The park is home to the world’s largest Confederate monument, but it also features a vibrant arts district, a lake, and a variety of wildlife. I spent the afternoon hiking the mountain and admiring the intricate carvings that tell the story of the Confederacy.

What surprised me the most was the energy of the place. There were families picnicking on the grass, artists painting the overlook, and even a small music festival going on near the lake. It was a reminder that history is alive and well in places like this.

The park also has a museum that gives a more nuanced look at the history of the South. It wasn’t the kind of place that tried to sugarcoat the past, but it gave a balanced perspective that made me think deeply about the region’s legacy.

Stone Mountain Park is a place where history, art, and nature converge in a way that’s unforgettable.

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Stop 2: Augusta: A City of History and Golf

Augusta, Georgia, is a city that feels like it’s been carefully preserved. I walked through the historic district, where the architecture was a mix of Victorian and Federal styles. The city has a rich history, from being the site of the first public library in the South to hosting the Masters Tournament.

I couldn’t resist visiting the Augusta National Golf Club, even if I wasn’t a golfer. The course is a marvel of engineering and design, and I took a tour that gave me a glimpse into the world of professional golf. It was a humbling experience, but the real highlight was the chance to walk through the grounds of the Masters, even if it wasn’t during tournament season.

The city also has a thriving arts scene, with galleries and theaters that make it feel more like a European city than a Southern one. I found myself wandering through the streets for hours, just taking in the atmosphere.

“I’ve always believed a road trip is more than just a journey—it’s an experience that stitches together the fabric of your soul with the landscapes…”— Backseat Atlas editors

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Stop 3: Savannah: The City of Antebellum Charm

Savannah was the kind of city that made me slow down and take in every detail. The historic district was a maze of pastel-colored buildings, each one with its own story. I wandered through the squares, sipping sweet tea and soaking in the atmosphere.

What made Savannah special was the way the city blended its past with the present. The architecture was grand, but the people were warm and welcoming. I had a long conversation with a local who had lived there for decades and who had a deep love for the city’s history.

I also visited the Bonaventure Cemetery, which is a must-see for anyone visiting Savannah. The cemetery is a place of beauty and reflection, with intricate sculptures and winding paths that are perfect for a stroll.

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Stop 4: Charleston: A City of Culture and Cuisine

Charleston was the kind of city that made me want to stay forever. The historic district was a maze of cobblestone streets and grand homes, each one telling a story of the past. I walked through the Battery, where the ocean met the city in a way that felt almost magical.

The food scene in Charleston was nothing short of incredible. I had a meal at a local restaurant that served up Southern cuisine with a modern twist. The shrimp and grits were divine, and the sweet tea was the best I’ve ever had. It was a reminder that food is an essential part of any travel experience.

The city also has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and music venues that make it feel like a living museum. I found myself spending hours wandering through the streets, just taking in the atmosphere and the history.

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Stop 5: Myrtle Beach: A Coastal Escape

Myrtle Beach was a refreshing change of pace. The beach was pristine, and the ocean was a deep, inviting blue. I spent the afternoon walking along the shore, watching the waves roll in and out. The sound of the ocean was so soothing that I found myself sitting on the sand for hours.

I also took a trip to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Pavilion, where I could enjoy the view of the ocean while sipping on a drink. The boardwalk was a hub of activity, with food vendors, shops, and live music. It was a great place to relax and enjoy the day.

The city also has a thriving golf scene, with some of the best courses in the country. I took a quick tour of one of the courses and was amazed at how well-maintained the greens were. It was a reminder that even in a place like this, the details matter.

There’s something about the sound of waves and the feel of sand between your toes that makes Myrtle Beach feel like a dream.

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Stop 6: Wilmington: A Hidden Gem on the Coast

Wilmington was a hidden gem that I had to see for myself. The city is located along the Cape Fear River, and it has a small-town feel that’s hard to find in larger cities. I walked through the downtown area, where the architecture was a mix of historic and modern.

One of the highlights of my visit was the Wright Square, which is a vibrant public space with live music, art, and food vendors. I spent the afternoon there, sipping on coffee and watching the world go by. It was a reminder that some of the best moments in travel come from the little things.

I also visited the Bellamy Mansion, a historic home that gives a glimpse into the life of the wealthy in the 19th century. The mansion was beautifully preserved, and the tour was both informative and engaging. It was a perfect way to end my journey through the South.

Road Trip By Mary Kay Andrews