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. Stay: Sheraton Hotel (3 Nights)

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 favorite – beignets at the famed Café Du Monde. Tonight, get to know your travel companions at a festive New Orleans-style welcome dinner. (B/D)

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. (B)

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. (B/D) Stay: The Guest House at Graceland (2 Nights)

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! (B)

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.*** (B) Stay: Gaylord Opryland Resort (2 Nights)

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. (B/D)

Your rockin' musical journey comes to a close today. (B)