I'm sure that this has been asked before but I've searched and couldn't find anything. So... Planning a three/four week mammoth holiday to the States next year with the gf and maybe some other friends dipping in and out.

Has anyone done this before? I've only been to New York. Where should we go? Might try and combine with some festival such as SXSW, and some Jazz/Blues stuff as that's what the gf's interested in. Also thinking of renting a car, but not sure if driving would just take over the entire holiday. And, if possible, would love to go to Mexico too.

At the moment we're thinking...

Definites include: New York, New Orleans, San Francisco

Then maybe: Portland, Washington, Seattle, Georgia, Austin, Mexico

Not too bothered about: Any of Florida, Las Vegas

Any ideas, help, tips etc would be smashing. Thanks.