From Tennessee to Louisiana discover the heart of rhythm and jazz with visits to Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame Museum to Elvis Presley’s Graceland to jazz in New Orlean’s French Quarter. Explore the movement that changed the nation with a visit the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum showcasing stories of Mississippians like Fannie Lou Hamer, Medgar Evers, and Vernon Dahmer.
On this smarTours American Road Tour, enjoy the convenience of a thoughtfully planned itinerary and carefully selected accommodations combined with the freedom and flexibility to travel from the comfort of your own car (or rental car)! We’ll have scheduled guided tours along the way to tell you about the rich history and culture of each destination and you’ll share this experience with other like-minded smarTours travelers!
Itinerary at a Glance
3 nights in Nashville
1 night in Memphis
1 night in Jackson
3 nights in New Orleans
Tour Highlights
Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum located in Nashville’s Music Row
Walk Nashville’s Music City Walk of Fame honoring country performers of national reputation
Walk down Beale Street for a taste of the music Memphis makes today
Embark on the ultimate Rock ‘n Roll experience at Elvis Presley’s Graceland
Visit the Mississippi Civil Right’s Museum
Get your jazz on in the French Quarter, New Orleans’ original neighborhood
Activity Level: Discoverer
Your Tour Includes
Carefully selected accommodations
10 meals: 8 breakfasts & 2 dinners
Thoughtfully planned meet-ups, group meals & excursions
Sightseeing tours & entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary
Local welcome guide
Parking at hotels
All applicable taxes
smarTours® Activity Levels
We believe world travel is for everyone! That’s why nearly all
of our tours are designed to accommodate any fitness level. If you
are wondering if a tour’s activity level is suited for you,
please contact a member of our team at
1.800.337.7773.
Discoverer
Comfortable pace. Involves minimal physical activity, such as
climbing some stairs, walking for up to two hours at a time on
primarily level ground and periods of standing.
Explorer
A step up. Calls for moderate physical activity, including climbing
stairs, walking up to two miles (possibly on uneven surfaces and/or
hills) and standing for an hour or longer.
Adventurer
Moderately active. Requires walking longer distances and standing
for longer periods of time. You may encounter hills and uneven
surfaces on several days, as well as longer days in general.
Of our three tours ranked in this category, two include Machu
Picchu.
Click the Day by Day itinerary above (or swipe on mobile devices) to see the experiences that await on each day of your tour.
ADDITIONAL TOUR DETAILS:
Before you depart, we’ll send you detailed tour information including directions, meeting times, routes, places of interest, recommendations, and more. We look forward to being your trusted guide on this remarkable journey.
We’re also monitoring the situation in these states very closely and will provide additional details about our hygiene and safety guidelines before you depart. These include social distancing practices, optional meet-ups and/or meals, and more.
Arrive in Nashville
Arrive in Nashville, a city that sizzles with American music, Southern hospitality, unbelievable cuisine, and a boundless spectrum of nightlife. Upon arrival at the hotel, a welcome desk with a “smarTours” sign and our local tour guide will be available to answer any questions. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with the group.
Best Western near Opryland or similar | Dinner
Nashville
Begin the day in the dynamic state capital of Tennessee with a morning city tour aboard Old Town Trolley. Along the way we’ll see the Country Music Hall of Fame and Ryman Auditorium where some say bluegrass was born and Johnny Cash met June Carter. We’ll also see the iconic Bluebird Cafe, the District area which features shopping, dining and entertainment, the Parthenon and Bicentennial Capitol Mall, and 201 Broadway. While exploring the city’s landmarks, you might discover some new country music classics before they even hit the charts while visiting one of the many…
Begin the day in the dynamic state capital of Tennessee with a morning city tour aboard Old Town Trolley. Along the way we’ll see the Country Music Hall of Fame and Ryman Auditorium where some say bluegrass was born and Johnny Cash met June Carter. We’ll also see the iconic Bluebird Cafe, the District area which features shopping, dining and entertainment, the Parthenon and Bicentennial Capitol Mall, and 201 Broadway. While exploring the city’s landmarks, you might discover some new country music classics before they even hit the charts while visiting one of the many recording studios around town.
| Breakfast
Nashville
Today, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and tour the iconic Studio B. Historic RCA Studio B was once the recording home of popular music titans like Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, Eddy Arnold, and the Everly Brothers. The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum adds a strikingly modern touch to the Nashville skyline and is situated at the epicenter of the city’s rapidly growing core. The museum, called the “Smithsonian of Country Music” for its unrivaled collection, recently unveiled a $100 million expansion, doubling its size to 350,000 square feet of dynamic,…
Today, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and tour the iconic Studio B. Historic RCA Studio B was once the recording home of popular music titans like Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, Eddy Arnold, and the Everly Brothers. The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum adds a strikingly modern touch to the Nashville skyline and is situated at the epicenter of the city’s rapidly growing core. The museum, called the “Smithsonian of Country Music” for its unrivaled collection, recently unveiled a $100 million expansion, doubling its size to 350,000 square feet of dynamic, state-of-the-art galleries, archival storage, education classrooms, retail stores, and special event space boasting stunning downtown views. The rest of the day is free to explore Nashville independently.
| Breakfast
Nashville/Memphis
Depart the capital of country and western music for Memphis. As a large river port, the city was one of the most important links in the cotton trade before the Civil War. Memphis is also known as the “home of the blues.” Visit Elvis Presley’s palatial home, Graceland. Later on you may wish to tour downtown Memphis with its famous Beale Street, Home of the Blues where legendary performers like Louis Armstrong, Albert King, B.B. King, Memphis Minnie, and Muddy Waters played. Today you might consider visiting the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum, Memphis Music Hall of Fame, B.B. Kings…
Depart the capital of country and western music for Memphis. As a large river port, the city was one of the most important links in the cotton trade before the Civil War. Memphis is also known as the “home of the blues.” Visit Elvis Presley’s palatial home, Graceland. Later on you may wish to tour downtown Memphis with its famous Beale Street, Home of the Blues where legendary performers like Louis Armstrong, Albert King, B.B. King, Memphis Minnie, and Muddy Waters played. Today you might consider visiting the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum, Memphis Music Hall of Fame, B.B. Kings Blues Clubs or Handy’s Blues Hall.
Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown or similar | Breakfast
Memphis/Jackson
Today, arrive in the capital city of Mississippi. The statewide Mississippi Freedom Trail runs through the city, encompassing a number of historic sites that were significant in the Civil Rights Movement. Pay a visit to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. Its mission is to document, exhibit the history of, and educate the public about the American Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. state of Mississippi between 1945 and 1970.
Jackson/New Orleans
Travel south to New Orleans, Louisiana’s most important port city. People from all over the world have been arriving in New Orleans since the Sieur de Bienville laid out the city’s streets in 1718. The city today is a unique blend of Spanish, French, Caribbean, African and Anglo-Saxon influences. This is obvious in the food, architecture, and of course, the music. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore New Orleans independently.
Holiday Inn New Orleans – Downtown Superdome or similar | Breakfast
New Orleans
This morning, embark on a comprehensive city tour with a guide. Experience the history and culture of one of America’s greatest and most beautiful city. Discover the French Quarter (walking), St Louis Cemetery, City Park, Katrina devastation and the historic Garden District. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore New Orleans independently.
| Breakfast
New Orleans
Enjoy another full day at leisure to explore New Orleans on your own. We suggest a bayou and swamp tour, a visit to a historic Louisiana plantation or discover the Fun, Food & Folklore of the New Orleans School of Cooking. This evening we’ll enjoy a quintessential New Orleans experience: dinner aboard Steamboat Natchez! During our farewell dinner aboard this undisputed champion of the Mississippi enjoy live jazz by the world renowned “Dukes of Dixieland”.
| Breakfast, Dinner
Depart new Orleans
After breakfast this morning, our tour comes to a close and we say goodbye to New Orleans.
Rates are per person based on double occupancy. Mar, Jun, & Sep 2021 Departures: Single room supplement is $699 Apr – May & Sep – Oct 2021 Departures: Single room supplement is $729
Please note that all optional tours and excursions must be prepaid to smarTours in advance of departure
Reservations and Payments
Reservations can be made by phone (1-800-337-7773) and will be confirmed upon receipt of $300 per person non-refundable, non-transferable deposit which must be received at the time of reservation*. A second non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $300 is due 60 days after the date of your reservation. Full payment is due 90 days prior to departure. *If the reservation date is within 70 days of the final payment due date, both first and second deposits are due at the time of reservation. Baggage fees may apply. Space and prices subject to availability. For complete booking information and terms & conditions click here.
Optional ToursCustomize your trip with these optional tours.
All optional tours must be pre-booked and prepaid to smarTours in advance of departure.
After a short motorcoach ride across the Mississippi River, take a fascinating boat trip into the Louisiana Swamps & Bayous. Experience the timeless beauty of South Louisiana in a custom built, all weather swamp boat. Native guides will reveal the mysteries of the swamps and bayous and the Cajun “joie de vivre”. Hear how the Cajuns turned soup into gumbo, the washboard into a musical instrument, and the swamps of Louisiana into a paradise. Observe the nesting grounds of alligators, egrets, raccoons, nutria, and many species of snakes. Some wildlife are more numerous during the…
After a short motorcoach ride across the Mississippi River, take a fascinating boat trip into the Louisiana Swamps & Bayous. Experience the timeless beauty of South Louisiana in a custom built, all weather swamp boat. Native guides will reveal the mysteries of the swamps and bayous and the Cajun “joie de vivre”. Hear how the Cajuns turned soup into gumbo, the washboard into a musical instrument, and the swamps of Louisiana into a paradise. Observe the nesting grounds of alligators, egrets, raccoons, nutria, and many species of snakes. Some wildlife are more numerous during the warmer months of the year. You will be treated to a Bayou Nature Wildlife Show by a local naturalist. Snakes, alligator snapping turtles, raccoons and nutria will be among the animal guests. Learn about the efforts made to preserve and restore Louisiana’s vanishing wetlands. Lunch is available for purchase on this tour (not included). Bring your camera to capture the “bon temps” (good times) on the bayou! Snacks and refreshments are available on the boat. Tour includes narrated boat cruise and narrated transportation.
Departure Times:
Jan–Feb and Nov-Dec: daily at 11:00am and 1:00pm.
March–Oct: daily at 9:00am, 11:00am and 1:00pm.
Tour duration is approximately 4 hours long.
Oak Alley Plantation
From approx.$69 Per Person
Experience a bygone era in one of the South’s most historical settings-Oak Alley Plantation, built in 1839. Marvel at the unbelievable quarter-mile long alley of 28 magnificent Oak trees, each over 250 years old. Perhaps the most photographed plantation ever, Oak Alley has been the setting for such motion pictures as “Interview with a Vampire”, “Primary Colors” and the wedding of Bo and Hope from the daytime soap opera, “Days of our Lives”. Your guided tour will reveal the fascinating stories of the home and its history. View the Majestic Cypress Trees in Louisiana’s swamps…
Experience a bygone era in one of the South’s most historical settings-Oak Alley Plantation, built in 1839. Marvel at the unbelievable quarter-mile long alley of 28 magnificent Oak trees, each over 250 years old. Perhaps the most photographed plantation ever, Oak Alley has been the setting for such motion pictures as “Interview with a Vampire”, “Primary Colors” and the wedding of Bo and Hope from the daytime soap opera, “Days of our Lives”. Your guided tour will reveal the fascinating stories of the home and its history. View the Majestic Cypress Trees in Louisiana’s swamps bordering the Mississippi River. You can purchase a snack, salad or sandwich in the Café & Ice Cream Parlor to enjoy at the picnic tables or aboard the coach (Cost is not included in tour price).
Note: Due to the historic nature of the plantation, access to the second floor is by stairs only. No photography is allowed inside the plantation home. Tour includes guided tour of plantation home and narrated motorcoach transportation.
Duration: ~5 hrs with travel time.
Cultural Lunch at Oak Alley Plantation
From approx.$33 Per Person
Oak Alley Restaurant is housed in a 19th century cottage located on the grounds of the plantation, not far from the historic grounds, serving a wonderful selection of traditional Cajun and Creole dishes. Lunch is between 11:00 am and 11:30 am.
The ideal location to rest, relax and experience all that Nashville has to offer with a quiet location close to downtown Nashville. After a day of touring, enjoy the spacious accommodations, seasonal swimming pool and fully equipped fitness center with sauna.
201 Music City Circle, Nashville, Tennessee 37214-1220
This modern hotel overlooking the Mississippi River is conveniently located in the heart of Memphis’ historic downtown. After a day of exploring, enjoy the all-hours fitness center, relax at the seasonal rooftop pool all with free WiFi throughout the hotel.
This 2018 TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award winning hotel is located near the heart of downtown Jackson, this hotel provides access to the best nightlife, dining and shopping.
With its historic location in the Central Business District, this hotel is ideally located for both business and leisure travelers. At the hotel, relax on the rooftop pool deck, unwind in the Clarinet Lounge, or enjoy a meal at the Streetcar Restaurant.
WHAT ARE AMERICAN ROAD TOURS?
smarTours American Road Tours is a hybrid of a self-drive road trip with guided tour elements that we are known for. Travelers have the freedom to drive at their own convenience with scheduled meet-ups with other smarTours travelers. smarTours has done all the planning by booking exciting, iconic routes, carefully selected accommodations, and guided tours & admissions.
TRANSPORTATION
Airfare and ground transportation are not included on this tour. Travelers may choose to drive their own car from city to city or to rent a car independently. Friends and families may choose to drive together or separately and can book separate accommodations with smarTours.
Need to rent a car? As a smarTours traveler, you can save up to 25% with Avis Car Rental when traveling on one of our American Road Tours. For more information, please visit avis.com/smartours.
NATIONAL PARK FEES
National Park Fees are not included. For some parks entry is per vehicle and/or per person. For Park Entrance fees, click here. Some travelers may wish to purchase an annual or lifetime pass. For more information about the America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass or Lifetime Pass, please click here.
FINAL DOCUMENTS
Before you depart, we’ll send you detailed tour information including directions, meeting times, routes, places of interest, recommendations, and more. We look forward to being your trusted guide on this remarkable journey.