Heading West on I-10, I'd stop in Biloxi and check out the storm damage. Total devistation near the water, mile back everythings back to normal.
New Orleans is still not fully back, but the crime is, so stay in public areas. Mardi gras is great.
Houston has the space center. Seeing the big Saturn V rocket is the best part. Nearby is Kema and fresh shrimp.
A detour to Austin, Texas is the place on your trip for live music. 6th Street in Austin on the weekend is fantastic. Lots of cute college girls.
Luling has the best Barbque. (Luling City Market)
San Antonio has the "River walk" a nice stop on the way for lunch or dinner, you can check out the Alamo at the same time.
Between San Antonio and El Paso have a book on cd. Don't run out of gas. The real West, not really ever pictured correctly in the movies. Carlsbad caverns is nearby on the way to the North, but only if you like caves. Its probably the biggest in the US.
Have a great time.
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