Take to the rails on a journey through the iconic south of the USA, feeling its rhythmic heart in Nashville and Memphis, and absorbing the melting pot of New Orleans.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Charlotte

Your journey through America’s Deep South begins today upon arrival in Charlotte, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to our centrally located hotel. Known as Uptown due to its position on a gentle ridge, this sleek, modern city boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Wander through its pedestrian-friendly streets and enjoy a diverse range of restaurants, perfect for your dinner outing this evening.

Day 2: Charlotte, Gatlinburg

Travel by coach to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with a stop in Asheville, nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit the iconic Biltmore House, the former home of railroad magnate George Vanderbilt and his family. After touring the estate, enjoy a buffet lunch at the Stable Café, followed by a self-guided exploration of this magnificent, historic mansion.

Continue your journey to Gatlinburg, a charming mountain resort town located at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend time exploring the town, where you’ll find an array of local restaurants serving classic Deep South fare, steakhouses, Cajun cuisine, as well as a local brewery and a ‘moonshine’ distillery.

Day 3: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Embark on a tour highlight as you journey into the heart of the Smoky Mountains National Park aboard the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Travel along the picturesque Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers, crossing a historic bridge into the breathtaking Nantahala Gorge. Relax and take in the spectacular scenery during this four-hour journey, with a selection of onboard dining options available to enhance your experience.

After your scenic ride, we’ll transfer back to our hotel in Gatlinburg. This evening, you’ll have another opportunity to indulge in delicious Southern cuisine at one of the town’s charming restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties, such as creamy clam chowder, crab stuffed with shrimp, and golden seafood hush puppies.

Day 4: Gatlinburg, Chattanooga

Embark on a journey to Chattanooga, nestled along the banks of the Tennessee River and renowned for its historic railways, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Appalachian Mountains. Known as the “Scenic City,” Chattanooga lives up to its name with incredible views at every turn. Board the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger railways in the world, and take in panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.

After your exhilarating ride, return to Chattanooga to check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring this vibrant city, where you can enjoy a mix of Southern-style eateries, lively bars, and authentic bluegrass music venues.

Day 5: Chattanooga, Nashville

En route to Nashville, visit the iconic Jack Daniel’s Distillery for a guided tour and whiskey tasting. This historic distillery has been crafting its world-famous whiskey since the 1860s, and the tour offers a fascinating insight into the production process.

Continue on to Nashville, a city that has been synonymous with country music since the 1940s. Explore Music Row, home to countless recording studios and record labels, and the legendary Ryman Auditorium, which hosted the Grand Ole Opry for over three decades.

In the early evening, we’ll visit one of Nashville’s most celebrated institutions, the Grand Ole Opry itself, where you’ll enjoy a live performance. This unforgettable experience provides an excellent introduction to the city’s rich musical heritage.

Day 6: Nashville

This morning, immerse yourself in Nashville’s rich musical heritage on a guided tour that takes you to the city’s most iconic sights. Visit the legendary RCA Studio B, where music legends such as Elvis Presley, The Everly Brothers, and Dolly Parton recorded hits and crafted timeless songs.

The tour concludes at the renowned Country Music Hall of Fame, the largest music museum in the world, where you’ll discover the fascinating history of country music and its most influential stars.

The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Nashville at your leisure, whether you choose to soak in the lively atmosphere of Broadway or enjoy the city’s thriving music scene.

Day 7: Nashville

Today is yours to explore Nashville at your own pace. For history enthusiasts, you may wish to take a tour that delves into the city’s Civil War and plantation heritage, offering a deeper understanding of Nashville’s past.

Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local music scene with a walking tour that highlights Nashville’s famous honky-tonk history, where live music spills out of the bars and fills the streets with vibrant energy.

If you’re in the mood to indulge, Nashville’s diverse array of cafes, bars, and restaurants offers plenty of dining options (own expense) for you to savour the city’s unique Southern flavours.

Day 8: Nashville, Jackson, Memphis

Today, travel to Jackson, Tennessee, the state’s capital and a key city in the Civil Rights Movement. You may choose to visit the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center (own expense) before continuing to Memphis, located on the mighty Mississippi River, known for its rich musical history and iconic landmarks.

Day 9: Memphis

Start your day at Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic home, where you can explore his living quarters, memorabilia, and car collection. In the afternoon, visit Sun Studio, the ‘birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll’, where legends like Howlin’ Wolf and BB King recorded their hits. After returning to your hotel, enjoy free time to explore Beale Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music, where the sounds of blues and rock ‘n’ roll fill the air.

Day 10: Memphis, Hammond, New Orleans

This morning, board Amtrak’s City of New Orleans service, journeying through Mississippi towards Louisiana. Along the way, stop in Hammond for a visit to Oak Alley Plantation, perched on the banks of the Mississippi River, before continuing on to New Orleans for a three-night stay.

Insider Experience – Journey Through the Heart of the Blues

Travel aboard the iconic City of New Orleans service, a route famously associated with the spread of blues music. As you pass through the charming towns of Brookhaven and McComb, you’ll be led into the vibrant Cajun swamps of the Louisiana Bayou, immersing yourself in the rich cultural landscape of this legendary region.

Day 11: New Orleans

This morning, embark on a guided tour of New Orleans’ vibrant French Quarter, with a stop at Café Du Monde for a classic beignet and coffee. After lunch, enjoy a scenic Mississippi River cruise, accompanied by a local historian, as you journey to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and the historic Chalmette Battlefield. Known as the ‘Big Easy’, New Orleans is celebrated for its unique architecture, blending Spanish, French, Creole, and American influences. Take time to explore the streets or indulge in the city’s world-renowned cuisine.

Day 12: New Orleans

Today, continue your discovery of New Orleans with time at leisure. Perhaps walk to the Mardi Gras Grandstand, the venue for the city’s famous annual parade.

Day 13: Depart New Orleans

This morning, your journey comes to an end as you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight.