America's Music Cities Holiday

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. Take in the sights, flavors, and sounds of New Orleans on your own today before meeting your group in the morning.

Explore the many sides of New Orleans and how jazz began and thrives here. Join a local guide for a panoramic city tour, seeing the famous St. Louis Cemetery #3 and Esplanade. Then, it’s on to a walking tour of the French Quarter viewing St. Louis Cathedral, Pirates Alley and more. Tonight, get to know your travel companions at a New Orleans-style dinner before continuing on to Maison Bourbon, a live jazz club in the French Quarter.

Leave New Orleans on a high note and head to the next music landmark. Explore the history of one of the world’s most prestigious awards in music at GRAMMY Museum Mississippi. Later, arrive in the charming college town of Oxford for a laid-back evening.

Travel north to Memphis, the birthplace of the Blues, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and Soul. Enjoy Southern hospitality at your hotel before jiving along to “Jailhouse Rock” as you visit Graceland, the stately mansion of the “King” himself, and tour Elvis’s 14-acre estate, including his home, private jets, and Meditation Garden.

This morning, embark on a civil rights history tour via coach and follow the route of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s last march, stopping at Mason Temple where he gave his famous “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech the night before he was assassinated. Take time to explore the National Civil Rights Museum and grab lunch on your own. Then, journey along Music Highway to the “Music Capital of the World” – Nashville – and the glorious Gaylord Opryland Resort. This impressive property is a year-round wonderland but during the holidays it truly sparkles even brighter!

Your day begins with a tour of the historic Ryman Auditorium,** the original home of the Grand Ole Opry. Test your culinary skills at a hands-on chocolate-making lesson at the iconic Goo Goo Candy Shop. This evening, take your reserved seat at the renowned Grand Ole Opry.***

**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 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 some of their classic hits – you may even have the opportunity to record your own! Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, the largest museum of popular music in the world. The museum's vast collections of memorabilia, costumes, recordings and instruments are artfully presented in cutting-edge exhibits relaying the colorful histories of country music and its artists. This evening, gather for a spectacular dinner and holiday show at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. Then, it’s your choice! Embark on a cozy horse-drawn carriage ride -OR- take in your resort’s amazing lights and décor on a relaxing river cruise.

Your rockin' holiday journey comes to a close today.