Nashville & the Smoky Mountains Holiday

Step back in time on a holiday getaway that opens in 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! There are no included activities today, spend the afternoon exploring the resort at your leisure. Stay: Gaylord Opryland Hotel (3 Nights)

A local guide will share the history and lore of Music City during a sightseeing tour where you will view the State Capitol, Music Row and the Parthenon — a full replica of the Athenian original! Gather for a welcome dinner, then later this evening, take your reserved seat at the renowned 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. (B/D)

Today, a tour of RCA Studio B gives you an insider's look at Nashville's oldest remaining recording studio, where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and Charlie Pride once recorded some of their classic hits. Learn how each artist recorded their chart-topping music in this famous studio – you may even have the opportunity to record your own hit! Later, 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 vibrant history 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 holiday décor on a relaxing indoor river cruise. (B/D)

This morning we travel east to Gatlinburg, a lively mountain resort, the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and your home for a two-night stay. Today, it's a Smoky Mountains Christmas at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. Spectacular light displays and a lineup of shows celebrating the spirit of the holiday season make this a night to remember. (B) Stay: Hilton Garden Inn (2 Nights)

With a local guide, explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park (UNESCO) — the United States' most visited national park. The park contains one of the most diverse ecosystems on earth and the largest deciduous forest in the eastern United States. Stop at various lookouts on your way to Newfound Gap, which boasts views of both Tennessee and North Carolina.

Later, return to Gatlinburg for a visit to the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery. Sample a variety of moonshine flavors — once an illicit Appalachian tradition, now a celebrated craft. This evening, dinner is included at a local restaurant. (B/D)

Say goodbye to the Smokies and set your sights on Asheville, North Carolina — a city that sparkles during the holiday season. The afternoon and evening are yours to explore a city known for craft breweries, chocolate, and farm to table cuisine.

This evening, you may choose to join an optional tasting tour that introduces you to Asheville's food scene, sampling local specialties and meeting the makers behind them. (B) Stay: Cambria Hotel Downtown (2 Nights)

Back in 1895, George Vanderbilt II decided to build himself a “little mountain escape” in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The result was the impressive and decadent grandeur of the Biltmore Estate. Step into a world of elegance as you tour the sprawling mansion and manicured grounds — adorned with glittering lights, towering trees, and lavish holiday decorations that bring the Gilded Age to life in a warm, festive glow. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)

Your tour concludes in Asheville. Proceed to Charlotte, about a two-hour drive, for your flight home. As you venture home, take the holiday spirit and the warmth of America's Southeast with you. (B)