Tour of America's Musical Cities: New Orleans, Memphis & Nashville

Please note the following itinerary is subject to change without notice.

Day 1: New Orleans, Louisiana

Step back in time on a cultural getaway that opens in the “Jazz Capital of the World,” New Orleans! This soulful city abounds with rich history, mouthwatering Cajun and Creole cuisine, and of course, an incomparable soundtrack.

Day 2: French Quarter

It’s your choice! Embark on a walking tour of New Orleans’ famous French Quarter, viewing St. Louis Cathedral, the bustling French Marketplace, Pirates Alley and more -OR- set out on a panoramic motor coach tour of New Orleans with a local guide, seeing the famous St. Louis Cemetery #3 and stunning mansions. Later, taste a true New Orleans favourite – beignets at the famed Café Du Monde. Tonight, get to know your travel companions at a festive New Orleans-style welcome dinner.

Day 3: New Orleans

Journey through Louisiana’s swamp on a cruise* narrated by the captain himself. Learn about the ecosystem’s history and ecology while keeping an eye out for wildlife including bald eagles, herons, turtles and alligators. Then, celebrate New Orleans’ festive side at Mardi Gras World, the working warehouse where artisans create the floats for the famous parades, and get a tasting of king cake. Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own before meeting your fellow travel companions at Maison Bourbon, a live jazz club in the French Quarter.

Day 4: Memphis, Tennessee

Travel north to Memphis, the birthplace of the Blues, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and Soul. Enjoy Southern hospitality at your hotel just steps away from the iconic Graceland.

Day 5: Memphis

This morning, it’s your choice! Jive along to “Jailhouse Rock” as you visit Graceland, the stately mansion of the “King” himself, and tour Elvis’ 14-acre estate, home, private jets and Meditation Garden -OR- embark on a Civil Rights tour and follow the route of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last march by coach, stopping at Mason Temple where he gave his famous “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech the night before he was assassinated. Enjoy free time to grab lunch on your own before hopping back on the coach with some local musicians, who explain why Memphis embraces its title as the “Home of the Blues.” The remainder of the day is yours. You may opt to join a Memphis Musical History Tour with included dinner, or simply absorb the city’s vibrancy at your own pace!

Day 6: Nashville

Roll along Music Highway to Nashville – the “Music Capital of the World.” Along the way, stop in Brownsville at the West Delta Heritage Center to discover the roots of the country blues sound and the hometown of Tina Turner – the Queen of Rock. Arrive in Nashville and tour the historic Ryman Auditorium,** the original home of the Grand Ole Opry. What began as a building where a local radio broadcast show aired once a week in 1925 has grown to become an entertainment complex that attracts music fans from all over the world. This evening, take your reserved seat at the renowned Grand Ole Opry.***

Day 7: Nashville

Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, the world’s largest museum of popular music, and check out the vast collections of memorabilia, costumes, recordings, and instruments. Tour RCA Studio B and gain an insider’s look at Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio, where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and Charley Pride once recorded classic hits. You may even have the opportunity to record your own hit! Then, test your culinary skills at a hands-on chocolate-making lesson at the iconic Goo Goo Candy Shop. Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner.

Day 8: Nashville

Your rockin’ musical journey comes to a close today after Breakfast.

Pricing land only is based on travelling 20 October 2024.

• from $5,099 per person twin share
• from $6,349 single traveller

Multiple departure dates are available in 2024 & 2025

Our experienced Travel Advisors can also happily help with flights, pre/post-tour accommodation and travel insurance. Call 1300 414 198 to learn more and request a quote.

Please note that prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may change without notice.

7 nights accommodation included on this tour

• Sheraton Hotel, New Orleans (3 nights)
• The Guest House at Graceland, Memphis (2 nights)
• Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville (2 nights)

*The swamp tour is subject to change due to severe inclement weather. These changes may include items being missed during the trip; however, every effort will be made to substitute for another attraction if possible. **On some dates, the Old Ryman Auditorium may be closed for special events. ***The Grand Ole Opry may move to the Ryman Auditorium during the months of November and December and throughout the year during special events.

Tour Fitness Level Recommendation - Level 2: This means you like a balanced approach to travel. You feel confident walking at least 30-45 minutes at a time over a variety of terrains – from cobblestone streets to easy pathways; a couple of hills or a few flights of stairs. You’re comfortable walking a few city blocks at a time, but need some time to unwind and relax.

Motor Coach - All surfaces will be sanitised often, including regular cleaning of high-touch areas with disinfecting wipes. Hand sanitiser will be available at all times and drivers will wear protective gear.

Will I need a passport? Passports are needed when travelling outside of your home country. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip.

Will I need a visa? You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to 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 prior to your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult your Travel Agent and 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.

An ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) visa is required for all Australian passport holders travelling to or via the USA, at your own expense. This visa may apply due to your airline scheduling. Most other passport holders will also require an ESTA visa to travel to or via the US, to check please go to https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/ or contact CIBT at www.cibtvisas.com.au/collette, alternatively check with your consulate for more information.