"Begin your journey in vibrant Memphis, the birthplace of the blues. Spend your first evening soaking up the city’s unmistakable musical soul with a live performance in one of the legendary blues bars along Beale Street.
With two nights in Memphis, you’ll have time to explore the city’s rich musical and cinematic heritage. Discover the stories behind the sounds at the Memphis Rock & Soul Museum and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, celebrating the artists and genres that shaped modern music.
You may also choose from a range of optional tours (additional cost), including a visit to Graceland, the iconic home of Elvis Presley; the Stax Museum of American Soul Music; the Gibson Guitar Factory; or Sun Studio, where legends such as B.B. King, Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their groundbreaking rock ’n’ roll hits."
 

Memphis seamlessly blends the charm of the Old South with the energy of a modern city. For today, consider an optional visit to the Mud Island Outdoor Amphitheater for an open-air concert. Sitting along the Mississippi River, Mud Island River Park offers scenic views and a unique historic setting. Alternatively, enjoy a classic Memphis dining experience at B.B. King’s Restaurant on famous Beale Street.
 

Continue your adventure to Lynchburg, where the rhythm of country music gives way to the rich tradition of Tennessee whiskey. Here, you’ll discover the world-renowned Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Take an optional tour to learn about the fascinating story behind the distillery, including the natural wonder of Cave Spring Hollow, the pure spring that gives Jack Daniel’s its distinctive character. Be sure to stop at Nina’s Taste of Tennessee, a charming local shop offering delicious sweets, many crafted with Jack Daniel’s whiskey.
 

Travel into Chattanooga, the fourth-largest city in Southeast Tennessee, and enjoy one of the South’s most beloved snack foods, the Moon Pie, created here in the early 1900s. The city has earned national acclaim for the revitalization of its charming downtown and the expansion of its scenic riverfront. Be sure to visit the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo Train Station, an iconic 1908 railway terminal now transformed into a unique hotel experience. Summer travelers may want to check the dates for the annual Chattanooga Riverbend Festival, a lively celebration of music held along the riverfront.
 

Continue north toward Gatlinburg, passing through Knoxville, an inviting blend of Southern warmth and modern growth. Once in Gatlinburg, begin your day with a scenic hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where plentiful trails and breathtaking landscapes await. You may choose to visit Sugarlands Distilling Company (optional) for a tasting of their many varieties, or stop by the Smoky Mountain Brewery for a relaxed lunch (optional). Afterwards, enjoy a stroll through the charming Village Shops, known for their quaint European-style architecture, boutique stores, and plenty of dining options.
 

Depart Gatlinburg and travel through Kentucky’s stunning landscapes, taking in views of the Appalachian Mountains, the Mississippi River, and the Ohio River. Begin your morning in Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World, located in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region. Explore the rugged Daniel Boone National Forest, named after the legendary American pioneer. While there, make time to visit Cumberland Falls, a spectacular 120‑metre‑wide, 20‑metre‑tall waterfall often called the “Niagara of the South.”
 

Your journey to Louisville takes you through small towns and rolling green countryside. Upon arrival, be sure to visit Churchill Downs, home of the world‑famous Kentucky Derby, held annually on the first Saturday in May. If you’re visiting during Derby season, don’t forget your stylish hat! Featured in the film Seabiscuit, Churchill Downs is the epicentre of American horse racing and home to the Kentucky Derby Museum. You may also like to take a detour to Bardstown to explore My Old Kentucky Home State Park, the inspiration behind Stephen Foster’s iconic Kentucky ballad. Baseball fans may enjoy an optional visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum, an interactive celebration of baseball’s greats.
 

Continue south to Nashville, Music City, USA. Visiting The Country Music Hall of Fame, a multimedia showcase celebrating legendary country performers with exhibits, instruments, costumes, and memorabilia. We also recommend stopping by the famous Ryman Auditorium and ending your night with a live performance at the legendary Grand Ole Opry (extra cost).
 

Spend the day exploring more of Nashville. Browse Opry Mills, one of Tennessee’s largest shopping centres, or visit the Music Valley Wax Museum of the Stars to see life-size wax figures of notable country icons (extra cost). The Tennessee State Capitol and the surrounding Bicentennial Mall offer an engaging look into the state’s history, complete with large monuments and an impressive 200 metre outdoor map of Tennessee.
 

Return to Memphis, the home of blues music, to conclude your tour. Before departing, enjoy a final meal at the famous Leonard’s BBQ, one of the city’s most beloved dining spots.