America's Deep South

To Atlanta

Begin your exploration of the American Deep South with an outbound flight to Atlanta, transferring to your overnight hotel on arrival where you will meet your group and local Tour Manager.

Chattanooga

Your first full day in the United States begins with a tour of the Martin Luther King Center and Church. One of Atlanta's most famous sons, the Center provides a fascinating insight into the Civil Rights leader and the political repercussions of his famous movement in 20th century America. You also visit Ebenezer Baptist Church, where both King and his father were pastors. You then depart for nearby Chattanooga.

Upon arrival in Chattanooga, transfer to the Tennessee Valley Railway Museum for an insight into the long and grand history of the great American railroad aboard a 'rolling museum'. The steam locomotive gives an insight into the history of the American railroad through the ages. Later, you board the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway for a charming and scenic journey to the summit of Lookout Mountain. This afternoon, return to Chattanooga, where you spend the night.

Nashville

This morning, begin your journey to Nashville by coach. Along the way, you take a detour to the Jack Daniel's distillery for a tour and a look at how this iconic beverage is made. From there, continue on your journey towards Nashville, arriving in late afternoon and check into the Holiday Inn Express Nashville Downtown Hotel. Tonight is at leisure so perhaps you may like to visit one of the many live music venues and bars located around the city?

Nashville

You begin your exploration of the 'Birthplace of Country Music' with a guided city tour, taking in the major sights. You follow the famous route of the 'Music Row', with its collection of record labels and recording studios. Later, enjoy a chance to learn about Nashville's association with the genre and some of its biggest stars at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum and the renowned Studio B. This evening there is an optional excursion to the legendary Grand Ole Opry music venue for some incredible live performances.

Memphis

Depart for Memphis today, stopping en route in Tupelo, the birthplace of the "King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley. Upon arrival in Memphis, transfer to your hotel for a two night stay. Tonight, you may like to visit one of the popular live music venues around the city. Beale Street's music scene draws the crowds in and it was here that the Delta Blues artists of the 20th century found a home before moving on to influence the world's musical tastes. Head to BB King's Blues Club, the first of the late BB King's popular blues bars. Perhaps enjoy some of the authentic Memphis-style barbecue accompanied by some classic American music.

Memphis

You begin today with a visit to Graceland, the famous mansion home of the late Elvis Presley. Enjoy a tour of the impressive estate, viewing the interiors as they were during Elvis' life here as well as much of his private car collection. The tour provides wonderful insight into the man behind the stage persona. Then head to Sun Studios, one of the pioneering recording studios for rock music during the '60s.

New Orleans

Transfer to the station this morning and board the Amtrak service to New Orleans aboard the 'City of New Orleans' train. It is claimed that the Blues spread along this route by rail. The pretty, floral towns of Brookhaven and McComb lead into the exotic Cajun swamps of the Louisiana Bayou. Arriving in the mid-afternoon, check into your hotel in the city's vibrant French Quarter.

New Orleans

This morning starts with a guided tour of New Orleans, enjoying the city's main sights including the bustling French Quarter, the inspiring Jackson Square and the 18th century St. Louis Cathedral. New Orleans is a fascinating blend of Spanish, French, Creole and American influences, representative of the cultural melting pot that the city has since become. You are then free this afternoon. You may like to return to the French Quarter, the home of New Orleans' jazz music, to experience one of the many popular music venues here or try some authentic Creole cooking.

Homeward

After a free morning, board your flight at New Orleans airport and return to the UK, arriving on Day 10.

Departure Times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We will write to you around 10 weeks before your departure date with the precise meeting times for your tour group.