Originally Posted by
glc
There is no "best" route, but the quickest most efficient route from NO to ATL is I-10 to I-59 to Meridian, I-20 to Birmingham (taking I-459 around the city) then I-20. This drive can be made in 1 day, I'd recommend you stay in a hotel on the Interstate in the suburbs rather than downtown. Stay on the northeast side of the city so you won't be fighting morning rush hour traffic on your way out.
From ATL to VA Beach, take I-85 to US-58 to US-460 to I-264. This is a LONG day's drive.