America's Music Cities

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. There are no included features today, so take in the sights, flavors, and sounds of decorated New Orleans on your own today before meeting your group in the morning.
Hotel Name: Sheraton New Orleans Hotel

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.

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included

Admittance: Gaylord Opryland Resort Dinner & Holiday Show
This sprawling resort hotel has everything a fan of country music could want. Blending southern hospitality with a wide array of dinning, shopping and entertainment options, it the perfect jumping off point to explore Nashville. Settle in for a spectacular dinner and holiday show at the glorious Gaylord Opryland Resort. Experience a country Christmas, complete with music and dance that will leave a smile on your face.

Leave New Orleans on a high note and head to the charming college town of Oxford for a laid-back evening.

Breakfast Included
Hotel Name: The Inn at Ole Miss

Admittance: Delta River Flat Boat or Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
In Nashville, you have the choice between two activities. Your first option is to enjoy a leisurely flat boat ride on the indoor river in the Opryland Resort's Delta atrium. Take in the sites and sounds of holidays at the Gaylord while enjoying the light displays. Your second option is to bundle up and take an outdoor horsedrawn carriage at night to see the hotel grounds strung with holiday lights including the beautiful southern magnolias. Delta River Flat Boat at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel Activity Level: 1 Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel Activity Level: 1

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.

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included
Hotel Name: The Guest House at Graceland

Admittance: Grand Ole Opry Show
The Grand Ole Opry was created by an insurance company as a radio show in service to the public as a means to advertise insurance policies. Launched in the 1920s, the Opry quickly became the launch pad for many music greats. Today the worlds longest running live radio program, the Grand Ole Opry is the backbone of American Country Music.

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!

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included
Hotel Name: Gaylord Opryland Resort

Admittance: Historic RCA Studio B
Built in the late 1950s RCA Studio B quickly became the home of the "Nashville Sound." The Hitmakers of Studio B are country music legends, including Dolly Parton, Chet Atkins and Willie Nelson, just to name a few. Today the studio functions as a cultural attraction for visitors and a classroom for local students learning sound and recording technology.

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.**

Breakfast Included

Admittance: Civil Rights Tour

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.

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included

Admittance: Graceland
Located in Memphis, Tennessee, this 13-acre estate was the last home of music legend Elvis Presley. Originally established as a farm during the American Civil War, Elvis purchased the property in 1957 and spent two decades here before his death in 1977. Graceland has become a modern pilgrimage site for fans.

Your rockin’ holiday journey comes to a close today.

Breakfast Included

Admittance: Ryman Auditorium
One of Nashville's premier entertainment locations, this live performance venue was completed in 1892. Nicknamed the "Carnegie Hall of the South," the auditorium's history includes performances from Harry Houdini, speeches by Theodore Roosevelt and concerts from Enrico Caruso. Home of the Grand Ole Opry for three decades, the Ryman is at the center of Nashville's musical legacy.