Discover the soulful charm of Southern USA through its rich musical heritage, a journey that promises unforgettable experiences.
From the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans to the birthplace of country music in Nashville, every corner resonates with the rhythms of history and culture. Its dynamic live music scene – spread across hidden bars to world class festivals – will make a trip to the American South as unique as it is unforgettable. Experience the ultimate self drive itinerary or let our award winning team custom design a trip for you to discover the birthplace of music!
Day 1: Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains
- Accommodation: Black Fox Lodge, Pigeon Forge
- Included Experience: Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner Show
Day 2: Explore Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is a charming town in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, offering breathtaking views, Appalachian culture and plenty of attractions. Its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes it ideal for outdoor adventures, from hiking to wildlife spotting.
Top Attractions:
- Dollywood: A theme park inspired by Dolly Parton's heritage.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore trails, waterfalls and scenic overlooks.
- Ole Smoky Moonshine: Sample authentic Tennessee moonshine.
Top Dining Options:
- The Old Mill Restaurant: Classic Southern dishes.
- Mama’s Farmhouse: All-you-can-eat comfort food.
- Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant: Southern classics with live music.
Day 3: Pigeon Forge to Chattanooga
- Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Downtown
Why Visit Chattanooga?
Nestled along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga combines natural beauty, rich music history and vibrant cultural attractions.
Top Attractions:
- Tennessee Aquarium: Home to river and ocean wildlife.
- Lookout Mountain: Featuring Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway.
- Songbirds Guitar & Pop Culture Museum: Explore vintage guitars and music history.
Top Dining Options:
- The Bitter Alibi: Creative dishes in a relaxed setting.
- Community Pie: Famous for wood-fired pizzas.
- St. John’s Restaurant: Elegant Southern dining.
Music Highlights:
- The Signal: A premier live music venue.
- Nightfall Concert Series: Free summer concerts.
- Moccasin Bend Brewery: Craft brews with live music.
Day 4: Chattanooga to Nashville
- Accommodation: Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown (Chris' favourite 4-star hotel)
Explore Nashville: Music City USA
The heartbeat of American music, Nashville blends honky-tonk charm, vibrant live music and incredible food.
Top Attractions:
- Country Music Hall of Fame: Celebrate country music’s legacy.
- Grand Ole Opry: Experience legendary performances.
- Ryman Auditorium: Known for its impeccable acoustics.
Top Dining Options:
- Hattie B’s Hot Chicken: A Nashville staple.
- The Loveless Cafe: Renowned for biscuits and fried chicken.
- Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant: Southern food and live music.
Music Highlights:
- Honky Tonk Highway: Bars with live music every night.
- Bluebird Cafe: Intimate performances by top artists.
- Third Man Records: Founded by Jack White.
Day 5: Backstage Tour of the Grand Ole Opry
Day 6: Nashville to Memphis via Jackson or Nutbush
- Accommodation: Hyatt Centric Beale Street
- Included Experience: Admission to the Memphis Music Hall of Fame
Explore Memphis:
The birthplace of blues, rock 'n' roll and soul, Memphis is rich in music history and Southern culture.
Top Attractions:
- Graceland: Elvis Presley’s iconic home.
- Sun Studio: The "Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll."
- Beale Street: Memphis' vibrant music hub.
Top Dining Options:
- Central BBQ: Famous for smoked meats.
- Gus’s Fried Chicken: Spicy and crispy fried chicken.
- The Arcade Restaurant: Retro diner serving classic Southern dishes.
Day 7: Explore Memphis
- Included Experience: VIP Graceland Tour
Day 8: Memphis to Tupelo
- Accommodation: Tru by Hilton
Explore Tupelo:
The birthplace of Elvis Presley, this charming town offers rich music history and Southern hospitality.
Top Attractions:
- Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum
- Tupelo Hardware Company: Where Elvis got his first guitar.
- Natchez Trace Parkway: Scenic drives and hiking trails.
Day 9: Tupelo to Clarksdale
- Accommodation: Hampton Inn Clarksdale Downtown
Explore Clarksdale:
Known as the birthplace of the blues, Clarksdale is steeped in Delta music history.
Top Attractions:
- Delta Blues Museum
- The Crossroads: A legendary music landmark.
- Hopson Plantation and Shack Up Inn
Top Dining Options:
- Ground Zero Blues Club: Southern food with live blues.
- Abe’s BBQ: A Clarksdale institution.
- Yazoo Pass: Gourmet coffee and light fare.
Day 10: Clarksdale to Greenwood
- Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Greenwood
Explore Greenwood:
Known for its blues heritage and Delta culture.
Top Attractions:
- Robert Johnson's Grave
- Museum of the Mississippi Delta
- Viking Cooking School
Day 11: Greenwood to Jackson
- Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Jackson
Explore Jackson:
The “City with Soul” offers vibrant music, history, and culture.
Top Attractions:
- Mississippi Civil Rights Museum
- Farish Street Historic District
- Mississippi Museum of Art
Music Highlights:
- Hal & Mal’s: A top live music venue.
- F. Jones Corner: Authentic blues in a classic juke joint.
- Duling Hall: Intimate concerts in a historic setting.
Day 12: Continue to New Orleans or Return to Memphis/Nashville