Self Drive Tour
Blues Bourbon and Bluegrass

10 Days 9 Nights

Group: No minimum

United States

Comfort

Introduction

Southern Harmony: Blues, Bourbon, and Bluegrass

Step into a world where music ignites the spirit, history tells captivating stories, and scenic landscapes leave you breathless. This 10-day adventure takes you through the heart of the South, from the soulful streets of Memphis to the majestic peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains and the rich heritage of Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region. Along the way, enjoy legendary landmarks, irresistible Southern cuisine, and unforgettable experiences that celebrate the culture and charm of this iconic region. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a history buff, or an avid explorer, this trip promises something magical at every turn. The South is calling—are you ready to answer?

Discover the pivotal sites of the American Civil War on this 15-day self-drive tour, combining key battlegrounds, historic landmarks, and cultural highlights. Perfect for history enthusiasts, this itinerary balances the drama of the past with vibrant cities, charming towns, and scenic landscapes. From Washington, D.C., to Atlanta, Georgia, experience an unforgettable journey through America’s history.

Departure

Memphis

Departure Time

TBC

Return Time

TBC

Dress Code

No dress code

Price Includes

  • 9 Nights' Accommodation

  • Compact Size Rental Car

  • Local accommodation taxes

Price Excludes

  • Flights (please let us know if you would like flights including at the time of enquiry)

  • Meals (unless shown in inclusions)

  • Anything not shown as included

Tour Gallery
http://kentucky%20horses
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Itinerary
  • Day 1: Memphis

    Begin your adventure in the lively city of Memphis, where music and history intertwine. Stroll down the iconic Beale Street, home to legendary blues bars offering unforgettable live performances. Dedicate time to exploring Graceland, the celebrated mansion of Elvis Presley. Dive deeper into the city’s rich musical heritage with optional visits to the Rock & Soul Museum, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Sun Studio (where legends like B.B. King and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded), or the Gibson Guitar Factory. Savour every moment in this city that sings with life.

  • Day 2: Memphis

    Soak in the Old South’s genteel charm blended with the vibrant rhythm of a bustling city. Spend your day exploring Memphis at your own pace. For a unique experience, enjoy an optional visit to Mud Island River Park, a historic and scenic oasis along the Mississippi River. Outdoor concert lovers should check for events at the Mud Island Amphitheater. In the evening, indulge in southern cuisine at B.B. King’s Blues Club on Beale Street—a culinary and cultural delight.

  • Day 3: Memphis to Lynchburg

    Travel to Lynchburg, where music gives way to the country’s famed spirits. Tour the world-renowned Jack Daniel’s Whiskey Distillery (optional) and learn about its history and the pristine Cave Spring Hollow water source. Stop by Nina’s Taste of Tennessee for sweet delights infused with Jack Daniel’s whiskey—it’s a treat you won’t forget!

    Driving Distance: 263 miles / 423 km

  • Day 4: Lynchburg to Chattanooga

    Head to Chattanooga, a gem in Southeast Tennessee. Here, you’ll discover the birthplace of the iconic Moon Pie, the South’s beloved snack since the early 1900s. Make time for a visit to the Chattanooga Choo Choo, a historic train station-turned-hotel brimming with charm. Don’t miss the Riverfront District, a vibrant area recognized for its cultural renaissance. If traveling during summer, check the dates for the lively Chattanooga Riverbend Festival.

    Driving Distance: 91 miles / 146 km

  • Day 5: Chattanooga to Gatlinburg

    Journey through Knoxville to reach Gatlinburg, your gateway to the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Choose from scenic hikes with stunning views or sample moonshine at Sugarlands Distilling Company (optional). For a casual lunch, visit Smoky Mountain Brewery, or spend your afternoon strolling through the charming Village Shops downtown. Gatlinburg offers a blend of natural beauty and quaint mountain-town allure.

    Driving Distance: 145 miles / 233 km

  • Day 6: Gatlinburg to Lexington

    Head north into the rolling hills of Kentucky, passing through the majestic Appalachian Mountains. Bask in the natural beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest and visit Cumberland Falls, hailed as the “Niagara of the South” for its sweeping waterfalls. Arrive in Lexington, the “Horse Capital of the World,” and explore the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region.

    Driving Distance: 214 miles / 344 km

  • Day 7: Lexington to Louisville

    Make your way to Louisville, home to the renowned Kentucky Derby. Visit Churchill Downs, where the world’s most famous horse race takes place, and explore the Kentucky Derby Museum for fascinating insights into this beloved tradition. If time allows, head to Bardstown to visit My Old Kentucky Home State Park. Baseball fans, don’t miss the interactive Louisville Slugger Museum for a peek into the sport’s storied history.

    Driving Distance: 78 miles / 125 km

  • Day 8: Louisville to Nashville

    Arrive in Nashville, the heart of country music! Explore the Music City Walk of Fame (optional), the Ryman Auditorium, or the Grand Ole Opry for magical performances. Dive into Nashville’s country music culture with artifacts, costumes, and stories at its many music museums.

    Driving Distance: 176 miles / 283 km

  • Day 9: Nashville

    Spend your day immersing yourself in Nashville’s many delights. Shop at Opry Mills or stroll through Music Valley’s Wax Museum of the Stars. For history lovers, the State Capitol and Bicentennial celebration monuments are must-sees—they offer striking architecture and showcase Tennessee’s rich heritage.

  • Day 10: Nashville to Memphis

    Complete your journey with a return trip to Memphis. End your adventure by feasting at the beloved Leonard’s BBQ, known for its unbeatable Southern comfort food and warm hospitality. A perfect way to conclude your unforgettable Southern road trip.

    Driving Distance: 212 miles / 341 km

Hotels
  • Memphis

    Comfort Inn Downtown, Memphis

    A convenient and comfortable stay in downtown Memphis, offering great views of the Mississippi River and easy access to Beale Street.

  • Lynchburg

    Hampton Inn Tullahoma

    A reliable and modern hotel near Lynchburg, ideal for exploring the Jack Daniel’s Distillery and scenic Middle Tennessee.

  • Chattanooga

    Days Inn by Wyndham Chattanooga

    A budget-friendly stay close to Hamilton Place Mall, with easy access to downtown Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain.

  • Gatlinburg

    SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western

    A cosy and affordable option near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering mountain views and a short walk to downtown attractions.

  • Lexington

    Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lexington

    A practical and comfortable hotel near the Kentucky Horse Park and downtown Lexington, perfect for road-trippers and horse enthusiasts.

  • Louisville

    Econo Lodge Downtown

    A no-frills budget hotel in the heart of Louisville, within walking distance of major attractions like Fourth Street Live! and the Muhammad Ali Center.

  • Nashville

    Comfort Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown

    A well-located hotel near Nissan Stadium, offering easy access to Broadway’s live music scene and downtown Nashville attractions.

Extras and Optional Fees Payable Locally

Memphis – Home of the Blues

  • Graceland: The “Elvis Experience Tour” is priced at $84 for adults and $48 for youth. graceland.com

  • Sun Studio: Admission is $15 for adults. sunstudio.com

  • Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Admission is included in the “Backstage Pass,” which offers entry to multiple attractions for $105. memphisrocknsoul.org

  • Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum: Also part of the “Backstage Pass” package mentioned above.

Lynchburg – The Heart of Whiskey Country

  • Jack Daniel’s Whiskey Distillery: Tour prices vary; it’s recommended to check their official website for the most current information.

Chattanooga to Gatlinburg – Scenic Splendour in the Smokies

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Entrance to the park is free.

Lexington to Louisville – Horse Racing and History

  • Louisville Slugger Museum: Admission fees apply; please refer to their official website for current pricing.

Louisville to Nashville – Welcome to Music City USA

  • Ryman Auditorium: Tour prices vary; it’s advisable to check their official website for detailed information.

Please note that prices and availability can change. It’s always a good idea to verify the latest information by visiting the official websites of each attraction before your visit.

Enquiry Form

HIGHLIGHTS

  1. Beale Street – Experience legendary blues music and lively nightlife.

  2. Graceland – Tour Elvis Presley’s iconic mansion and memorabilia.

  3. Sun Studio – Visit the “Birthplace of Rock ’n’ Roll” where music legends recorded.

  4. Stax Museum of American Soul Music – Explore the roots of soul music.

  5. Gibson Guitar Factory – Discover the craftsmanship behind famous guitars.

  6. Jack Daniel’s Distillery – Take a tour and learn about Tennessee whiskey.

  7. Nina’s Taste of Tennessee – Enjoy whiskey-infused sweets.

  8. Chattanooga Choo Choo – Visit the historic train station turned hotel.

  9. Moon Pie General Store – Discover the birthplace of the South’s favourite snack.

  10. Tennessee Riverfront District – Stroll along the scenic waterfront.

  11. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Hike through breathtaking landscapes.

  12. Sugarlands Distilling Company – Sample local moonshine and craft spirits.

  13. The Village Shops – Explore quaint boutiques and mountain-town charm.

  14. Cumberland Falls – Witness the “Niagara of the South.”

  15. Horse Country Tours – Visit world-famous Kentucky horse farms.

  16. Churchill Downs & Kentucky Derby Museum – Learn about the legendary horse race.

  17. Louisville Slugger Museum – See how the iconic baseball bats are made.

  18. Bardstown & My Old Kentucky Home – Experience historic Kentucky charm.

  19. Grand Ole Opry – Attend a live country music show.

  20. Ryman Auditorium – Tour the “Mother Church of Country Music.”

This tour itinerary is flexible and can be adapted as required. 

A family friendly option is available on request. 

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