Music of America: Nashville to New Orleans - 9 Days
9 Days
Nashville
New Orleans
*****
Tauck
The music of the South comes to life on a 9-day journey from "Music City" Nashville to "The Big Easy" New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz...
Discover the birthplaces of some of the world's most famous genres... rock n' roll, blues, jazz, country... on an exploration across the south that provides insight into their creation and the innovators that helped push them to the forefront of the music world. Stroll the halls of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, before the crowds, and learn about the legends that have defined a genre... visit historic Belle Meade, where Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown winners descend from... tour the home of the King himself, Elvis Presley, and dine in the company of his famous car collection, exclusively for Tauck. Have lunch at the historic Club Ebony, enjoy an exclusive performance at Preservation Hall in New Orleans, visit the B.B. King Museum and much more! The sounds of the south are waiting for you, are you ready to listen?
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Nashville
Tour Begins: 5:00 PM, The Four Seasons Hotel, Nashville. A transfer is included from Nashville International Airport to the Four Seasons Nashville, located just two blocks from Broadway, Nashville's lively downtown area. For those arriving early, you can walk past the Honky Tonk Highway on Lower Broadway, pop in for a tasting of Nashville's famous hot chicken or visit the Mother Church of Country Music at Ryman Auditorium. Tonight, meet your fellow travellers during a welcome reception and dinner at your hotel.
Day 2: Nashville's Country Music Heritage
Welcome to Nashville, Tennessee's capital city and the first stop on your 9-day journey across the American South. Built on a foundation of music, there's a good reason why Nashville is nicknamed "Music City," as music is the very lifeblood of the city. Home to legendary Ryman Auditorium, the United Record Pressing – the largest producing vinyl record plant in North America and Bluebird Café, Nashville's influence and contributions to various genres, such as jazz, country and gospel and music as a whole, is unlike anywhere else. That will become very apparent this morning on an early-morning guided tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, the world's largest repository of country music artifacts. Stroll its halls, seeing exhibits that detail the past, present and future of the genre… all before the museum is open to the public! Your time at the museum is highlighted by a live songwriting session where a professional songwriter will provide commentary about the songwriting process, their inspirations when writing songs, and other industry insights. Following lunch at the museum, you're off for a guided sightseeing tour across Nashville by motor coach, where over 200 years of music history is on full display. Tonight, join us for a live performance of the Grand Ole Opry. Celebrating its 100th year anniversary in 2025, the Grand Ole Opry is the longest-running radio broadcast in radio history and is sure to be a highlight of your time in Nashville!
Day 3: Horse Racing & Bourbon Country
Dating back to the early years of the 19th century, Belle Meade (which translates to "beautiful meadow") was originally a log cabin built on 250 acres of land. Over time the property grew, eventually becoming the two-story brick mansion you'll see today. Dedicated to the preservation of Tennessee's history, architecture, and hospitality, Belle Meade is perhaps most famous for its equestrian legacy: the Harding family (who purchased the property) bred a stallion named Bonnie Scotland, whose descendants have gone on to win over two-thirds of all Kentucky Derbies, including 11 Triple Crown winners. Enjoy a Tauck-exclusive tour of the mansion, including its gardens, as well as a tasting of its home-distilled bourbon followed by a traditional Southern lunch. Next, stop at Casey Jones Village & Railroad Museum for a self-guided tour. If you wish, you can also explore the farm, church, old country store, shops, and a collection of more than 15,000 Southern country artifacts. Check in to your hotel, Westin Memphis Beale Street, located in the heart of downtown just steps from Beale Street's legendary blues clubs, restaurants, and live music nightlife. Tonight, join us for a private dinner and live performance at B.B. King's Blues Club, where you'll enjoy the essence of Southern comfort food featuring a diverse array of classic Southern dishes that evoke the warmth and soul of the South.
Day 4: Memphis blues and a visit to Graceland
Memphis, Tennessee - home to Graceland, Memphis-style barbecue, Sun Studio and the origins of blues, soul and rock & roll. Learn the rhythms of this historic city on a guided motor coach tour led by a local musician where you'll learn all about Memphis' history and connections to the music that echo throughout. Drive past the original Lansky's, the tailor to the King himself, Elvis Presley, as well as the National Civil Rights Museum, built on the grounds of the former Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Visit Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock & roll where many musical legends were discovered including B.B. King, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis. Stand where Elvis Presley first recorded, and step up to the mic where he sang some of his biggest hits. You'll have some free time this afternoon to explore Memphis as you wish before joining us tonight for a Tauck-Exclusive, after-hours guided tour of Graceland - Elvis' former estate turned National Historic Landmark. Explore the mansion followed by another Tauck-Exclusive - dinner at the Presley Motors Automobile Museum, where you'll dine solely in the company of Elvis' extensive car collection including his famous Pink Cadillac, 1973 Blackhawk, 1975 Dino Ferrari and many more.
Day 5: Along the Blues Highway
A short drive this morning brings you to your next stop, Clarksdale, home of storied musician Ike Turner as well as the intersection of highways 61 & 49 where, as legend has it, blues artist Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil in exchange for supernatural musical ability. Your time here begins with a self-guided visit to the Delta Blues Museum, chronicling the story of blues across its many exhibits. Continue along Highway 61 en-route to lunch at the historic Club Ebony in Indianola, one of the most famous Blues venues in Mississippi, where legendary musicians such as Ray Charles, B. B. King and Willie Clayton made their mark. Next, continue your foray into the history of Blues with a stop at the B.B. King Museum, highlighting the life and legacy of the "King of the Blues." Later this afternoon, check into your hotel – The Westin Jackson.
Day 6: Mississippi River Country
Depart early this morning en-route to New Orleans, driving along Louisiana's "River Road," culminating with a visit to the Houmas House and Gardens, located along the "big bend" of the Mississippi River. Named for the local Houmas Indians who owned the land until its purchase by planters in the mid-18th century, the land's location in close proximity to fertile soil and lush flora provided excellent opportunities to grow sugar cane, cotton, corn and tobacco. You'll have an opportunity to travel through time on a guided tour of the estate and its spectacular gardens, viewing various artifacts, pieces of furniture and artwork all while learning how the manor grew into the grand estate you see today. Later this afternoon, depart for the final leg of your southern music adventure – New Orleans. Universally considered the birthplace of jazz, many great musicians have come from New Orleans; Louis Prima, Fats Domino, Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong and many others began their musical journey here, and their legacy permeates across the city to this day. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Day 7: Sightseeing across the "Big Easy" – New Orleans
Discover the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans today, beginning with a guided walking tour through the storied French Quarter, followed by a drive to Canal Street, the Central Business District, and the oak-lined avenues of St. Charles. Later, step into the kitchen at the New Orleans School of Cooking for a lively demonstration and lunch featuring regional Creole flavours. Following your sightseeing, head over to the New Orleans School of Cooking for a cooking demonstration and lunch. Here, a local chef will introduce you to the flavours of the South as they prepare a classic Cajun/Creole dish, as well as share their vast knowledge on the vibrant history of the cuisine in New Orleans. A private jazz performance by local artists at historic Preservation Hall precedes time to enjoy the magic of this historic city as you wish.
Day 8: National World War II Museum & Au Revoir
The final day of your journey begins with a guided visit and time on your own at the National World War II Museum. This acclaimed institution, visited by over one million people annually, honours the efforts of millions of everyday Americans and is situated in the neighbourhood of the New Orleans factory that produced the ubiquitous Higgins boats, which played a key role in Allied amphibious assaults throughout the war. Your visit is highlighted by a viewing of the award-winning "4-D" multimedia experience Beyond All Boundaries, produced and narrated by Tom Hanks and featuring the voice talents of Brad Pitt, Viola Davis, and more. Tonight, join us at Galatoire's, a New Orleans fine-dining institution, for a farewell reception followed by dinner, listening as the sounds heard throughout your journey are on full display.
Day 9: Journey Home
Tour Ends: New Orleans. A transfer is included from your hotel to New Orleans International Airport. Please allow at least 3 hours for check-in or speak to us about extending your stay.
Includes
- 8 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can we book flights through you ?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms
Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.
Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.
For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.
How much walking with be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities
Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms.
While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience.
The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.
The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.