Southern Grace
Tour Type: Luxury Gold
Brochure Type: Grand European Americas Luxury Gold 2023
Enjoy everything from rock 'n roll to Creole cuisine on this 9-Day guided tour that stretches from Nashville to New Orleans. In the birthplace of country music, take a tour of historic Studio B, in Nashville, with a professional sound engineer, who will record you and your fellow travelers singing for a once-in-a-lifetime keepsake. Later, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame on private tour and meet a local singer who will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the songwriting process. In Memphis, marvel at the mansion where Elvis once lived: Graceland. At the Houmas House plantation, take part in a Creole cooking demonstration, then feast on traditional Southern dishes for dinner. Allow a Local Expert to lead you through New Orleans' best sites, from bustling Jackson Square to idyllic City Park.
Choice Highlights
Brochure Type: Grand European Americas Luxury Gold 2023
Enjoy everything from rock 'n roll to Creole cuisine on this 9-Day guided tour that stretches from Nashville to New Orleans. In the birthplace of country music, take a tour of historic Studio B, in Nashville, with a professional sound engineer, who will record you and your fellow travelers singing for a once-in-a-lifetime keepsake. Later, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame on private tour and meet a local singer who will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the songwriting process. In Memphis, marvel at the mansion where Elvis once lived: Graceland. At the Houmas House plantation, take part in a Creole cooking demonstration, then feast on traditional Southern dishes for dinner. Allow a Local Expert to lead you through New Orleans' best sites, from bustling Jackson Square to idyllic City Park.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Memphis: Explore Sun Studios, 'The Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll,' on a guided tour led take-home song. At this circa 1950 recording studio, stand in the very same spot Elvis and other musical legends including B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison, Charlie Feathers, Ray Harris, Warren Smith, Charlie Rich, and Jerry Lee Lewis first recorded.
- Memphis: Learn about the slave trade, runaway slaves and the message system and travel patterns of escaping slaves at the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum or Burkle Estate. Time travel back through the history of the Deep South to the pre-Civil War era when you step inside the main house once used as a shelter for slaves along the Underground Railroad and owned by Jacob Burkle, part of the antislavery movement and an aid to those trying to escape slavery.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Natchez: Awaken your imagination on a private tour of an antebellum mansion. Explore the interior and grounds as you learn about its past and distinct architectural style. This 1850's Greek-Revival cottage on 10 acres near Natchez's historic downtown is the beloved home of a local who is eager to show off their stunning property. Take in the architecture and wander among the expansive gardens, certified as a Wildlife Habitat and a member of the Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail.
- Natchez: Visit Dunleith Historic Inn, a National Historic Landmark built in 1855 that remains Mississippi's sole example of a pre-civil-war mansion. Join the Bar Manager at Castle Pub for a mixology class on two seasonal cocktails as you learn the history of each cocktail and the ingredients. After the demonstration relax and sip on the delicious final product.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- New Orleans: Tour Mardi Gras World's Blaine Kern Studios, a workshop that has created breathtaking floats for Mardi Gras and other parades around the world since 1947. With your all-access pass, wind through the massive studio where artists and architects build Mardi Gras floats from the ground up. Viewing floats, colorful costumes and props, you'll learn about the history of this unique and festive tradition, going beyond its reputation and getting a deeper understanding of the real Mardi Gras.
- New Orleans: Embark on an immersive tour of World War II through the exhibits, multimedia experiences and thousands of personal accounts at the National World War II Museum. You'll learn not only about the role of world leaders, but also the everyday men and women who fought. Through experiences such as the 4D film Beyond All Boundaries, go on a journey through the war that changed the world.
- : Your Well-Being Director takes a proactive approach to your welfare ensuring all well-being regulations are met. On tours fewer than 15 guests, your Traveling Concierge will act as your Well-Being Director.
- : Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travelling Concierge's, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
- : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
- : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
- Nashville: Get acquainted with Nashville's burgeoning food scene as you join your Traveling Concierge for a Welcome Dinner at Henley's modern American brasserie where inventive small plates and entrees using classical French technique meet sociable Southern dining. Perhaps start with a grilled broccolini Caesar salad followed by American Wagyu strip or parsnip gnocchi before finishing with banana pudding. Raise a glass with one of their signature cocktails such as 'Queen's Cure' and 'Henley G & T' and toast to a grand adventure ahead.
- Natchez: Learn to make the signature drink of the South, the Mint Julep, before an elegant, three-course Southern dinner at the Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens, a National Historic Landmark in Natchez. As you take in your surroundings of this early 19th-century antebellum mansion set in within manicured gardens, let the flavors of the 'Crown Julep' show off the best of the South.
- New Orleans: Dive into a hands-on private cooking class at the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, where students of the Deelightful Roux School of Cooking learn basic culinary techniques such as sauteing, boiling, flambe and handy knife skills. The Creole and Cajun cuisine will be taught by New Orleans very own Chef Dee Lavigne. Enjoy a fun and educational, hands-on culinary journey as you discover some of New Orleans most famous dishes like Jambalaya, Gumbo and NOLA Style Bananas Foster, while reflecting on your incredible tour of the South over a delicious Celebration Dinner.
- Dining Summary: 3 Dinner (D), 8 Breakfast (B), and 2 Lunch (L)
- Nashville: If you are traveling on a Chairman's Collection departure, you will have the privilege of meeting a living legend in the country music sphere. Get to know the harmonica legend Charlie McCoy, a Country Music Hall of Fame musician and Grammy-winning artist, who has collaborated with famous musicians like Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Loretta Lynn. Or, chat with Brenda Lee, the recipient of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for her contribution to music as the top-charting solo female vocalist of the 1960s.
- Nashville: Experience the 'Smithsonian of country music,' the Country Music Hall of Fame, for a private, behind-the-scenes look at the songwriting process with a local songwriter and singer. On your visit, see memorabilia from stars such as Jim Reeves and Roy Orbison as you uncover the enduring beauty and cultural importance of country music.
- New Orleans: Follow the path of the Mississippi River that has created one of the most distinctive and important American cities and coastal environments in the world. Your Local Expert offers you an insider's perspective on La Nouvelle Orleans from New Orleans Lakefront Airport to the surrounding wetlands, ghost forests and the new levees and barriers put in place since Katrina. A Bayou-side chat and lunch with a local oysterman offers a rare peek into one individual's experience in this storied place.
- Nashville: You're in for a treat, joining a professional sound engineer to record a take-home song just as legends like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton have at legendary Studio B, the cradle of the Nashville sound in the late 1950s and early 1960s and once home to musical titans such as Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, Eddy Arnold, Roy Orbison and the Everly Brothers. Hear the stories behind the music in an intimate private session with one of Nashville's songwriters learning how a song is created from concept to hit.
- Memphis: Visit Graceland, a National Historic Landmark and museum dedicated to the late, great, Elvis Presley. Tour Graceland Mansion walking through the living room, his parents' bedroom, kitchen, TV room, pool room, the famous Jungle Room, his father's office, the newly enhanced Trophy Building and the Racquetball Building for an eye-opening experience on how he and his family lived their daily lives. In Elvis The Entertainer Career Museum, immerse yourself in the King's career through hundreds of artifacts and photos.
- Memphis: Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, the site of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and embark on a poignant and important tour through five centuries of the Civil Rights Movement. Pay your respects to the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., learn about his impact on the world and explore how this significant era continues to shape equality and freedom globally.
- New Orleans: Visit Houmas House, the crown jewel of Louisiana's River Road, previously voted best Louisiana attraction. Tour the estate and gardenswhile you learn about daily life on this former sugarcane plantation. Gain a deeper understanding of the architecture, heritage and history surrounding this 1800's mansion.
- Memphis: Explore Sun Studios, 'The Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll,' on a guided tour led take-home song. At this circa 1950 recording studio, stand in the very same spot Elvis and other musical legends including B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison, Charlie Feathers, Ray Harris, Warren Smith, Charlie Rich, and Jerry Lee Lewis first recorded.
- Memphis: Learn about the slave trade, runaway slaves and the message system and travel patterns of escaping slaves at the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum or Burkle Estate. Time travel back through the history of the Deep South to the pre-Civil War era when you step inside the main house once used as a shelter for slaves along the Underground Railroad and owned by Jacob Burkle, part of the antislavery movement and an aid to those trying to escape slavery.
- Natchez: Awaken your imagination on a private tour of an antebellum mansion. Explore the interior and grounds as you learn about its past and distinct architectural style. This 1850's Greek-Revival cottage on 10 acres near Natchez's historic downtown is the beloved home of a local who is eager to show off their stunning property. Take in the architecture and wander among the expansive gardens, certified as a Wildlife Habitat and a member of the Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail.
- Natchez: Visit Dunleith Historic Inn, a National Historic Landmark built in 1855 that remains Mississippi's sole example of a pre-civil-war mansion. Join the Bar Manager at Castle Pub for a mixology class on two seasonal cocktails as you learn the history of each cocktail and the ingredients. After the demonstration relax and sip on the delicious final product.
- New Orleans: Tour Mardi Gras World's Blaine Kern Studios, a workshop that has created breathtaking floats for Mardi Gras and other parades around the world since 1947. With your all-access pass, wind through the massive studio where artists and architects build Mardi Gras floats from the ground up. Viewing floats, colorful costumes and props, you'll learn about the history of this unique and festive tradition, going beyond its reputation and getting a deeper understanding of the real Mardi Gras.
- New Orleans: Embark on an immersive tour of World War II through the exhibits, multimedia experiences and thousands of personal accounts at the National World War II Museum. You'll learn not only about the role of world leaders, but also the everyday men and women who fought. Through experiences such as the 4D film Beyond All Boundaries, go on a journey through the war that changed the world.
- You will be escorted by one of our fine Travelling Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
- At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
Call 1 (801) 455-0947 for more information or to book today! Mention code 17096467
- Tour Operator
- Luxury Gold by Insight
- Offer
- Offer valid through 3/31/2023
- Duration
- 9 Days
- Escorted
- Escorted - Yes
| Day | Destination | Description |
| Day 1 | Nashville | Arrive in Nashville: Musical Nashville is yours to discover. Upon arrival at Nashville International Airport, you will be met and escorted to your luxury downtown accommodation, Union Station Hotel. Once a bustling train station, your historic hotel celebrates Nashville's creative art scene with a stained-glass ceiling, large-scale sculptures, custom chandeliers and original commissioned artwork. The first of many foodie experiences to come on your tour of the Deep South, join your Traveling Concierge for a wine-paired Welcome Dinner as you toast to what's to come in this vibrant city. Kimpton Aertson Hotel |
| Day 2 | Nashville | Nashville's Musical History: The best of Nashville's music scene awaits today, but not before visiting Riverfront Park, the Tennessee State Capitol and the sprawling Centennial State Park before stopping at the famous Music Row. Join the ranks of superstar musicians teaming up with a professional sound engineer to record a song at historic Studio B -- Nashville's oldest remaining recording studio - in a rare, choir-style recording session hearing hits as they were originally written. At the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, join an esteemed singer/songwriter to learn the stories behind the biggest hits sung by country music stars such as Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn and Garth Brooks. Today's musical finale awaits at the one and only Grand Ole Opry or 'country's most famous stage,' for a live performance and, if you are travelling on a Chairman's Collection departure, meeting with a Grammy-winning legend. Kimpton Aertson Hotel |
| Day 3 | Memphis | Memphis and Graceland Relaxed Start: Delve into the birthplace of Blues, Soul and Rock 'n' roll in Memphis where you're treated to a captivating tour of Elvis' Graceland. As you marvel at the mansion set on 13.8 acres of land and explore the King's artifacts, you'll see the effect that Elvis and his music had on American culture. In this rare opportunity to get to know the personal side of 'The King,' inspect Elvis' amazing collection of gold and platinum records, flashy jumpsuits, movie memorabilia and his iconic Pink Cadillac. Step aboard Elvis' customized airplanes to see how he traveled in the luxurious Lisa Marie that includes a living room and private bedroom and features gold-plated seatbelts, leather-covered tables and 24-karat gold-flecked sinks. The Peabody Memphis. |
| Day 4 | Memphis | The Best of Memphis: Reflect upon a key moment in history on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience at the moving National Civil Rights Museum housed in the former Lorraine Motel. Take your time in the museum of interactive, emotive exhibits that share the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement. Continue your exploration of Memphis with a backstage pass to the oldest BBQ restaurant in Memphis and the inventor of putting coleslaw on a pulled pork sandwich - Leonard's Pit Barbecue. Meet a top grilling expert Clint Cantwell over a hosted lunch of the signature succulent pulled pork sandwich paired with tempting sides including slaw, ribs and other BBQ classics on a rare event that usually only local insiders get to experience. Your Journey, Your Way.Choose to visit Sun Studio, 'The Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll,' as you hear intimate stories of American soul legends B.B. King, Elvis, and Johnny Cash and walk through the very rooms that they first recorded in. Alternatively, learn more about the history of the slave trade, runaway slaves and the message system and travel patterns of escaping slaves at the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum. The Peabody Memphis. |
| Day 5 | Natchez | Mississippi Mystique in Natchez: Follow the path of the famous Natchez Trace to Natchez where the unique architecture of the American South comes to life in antebellum homes. Showing off grand pillars, sprawling balconies and ornate ballrooms, the homes in Natchez were the residences of the largest number of millionaires in the U.S. in the 1800s.Your Journey, Your WayChoose to delve into the history of Natchez and its mansions on a guided tour of a 1850's Greek-Revival cottage in historic downtown. Alternatively, visit the Dunleith Historic Inn and join the Bar Manager for a mixology class highlighting the history, craft and tastes of two seasonal cocktails. Your sips of the South continue upon arrival at Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens where you'll delight your palate learning the science behind the iconic Mint Julep before a delectable three-course dinner in the stunning main house. Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens, Natchez. |
| Day 6 | New Orleans | Frogmore, Houmas House, and New Orleans: Gain valuable insight into the history of the South visiting Frogmore Plantation and Gins. Explore the property viewing the original, preserved cotton gin as you learn about both the agriculture of cotton and the sobering history of slavery at this historically important site. Then have a window into the daily life of a sugarcane plantation in the era of wealthy Sugar Barons at Houmas House Plantation and Gardens. After a day of thought-provoking sites, arrive in New Orleans for your stay at luxurious, four-star Ritz Carlton New Orleans set in a historic 1908 Beaux Arts Maison Blanche building in the French Quarter. The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans |
| Day 7 | New Orleans | New Orleans Sightseeing Relaxed Start: Join a Local Expert to explore the sights of The Big Easy. Pass by ornate buildings with brilliantly coloured flowers tumbling out of balconies and learn about the many cultures that have found a home here. Trace the cosmopolitan history, stopping in the French Quarter, Garden District and City Park. Past and present meet on a visit to one of the city's hauntingly beautiful above-ground cemeteries of elaborate memorials set in the lush surroundings the city is famous for. The afternoon is yours to dive into your curiosities.Your Journey, Your WayChoose to soak in the spirit of the city on a tour of Mardi Gras World, seeing firsthand what it takes to bring Mardi Gras to life. Alternatively, visit the National WWII Museum and immerse yourself in the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world. The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans |
| Day 8 | New Orleans | Exploring the Big Easy Relaxed Start: Dive into the multi-layered natural and cultural history of the Mississippi River Delta on an exclusive tour. Visit off-the-beaten path spots including the New Orleans Lakefront Airport, built in 1934 and one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the country. Delve into the world of wildlife in the wetlands watching wading birds and alligators. Then explore the quaint 'Islenos' fishing villages where America's seafood has been harvested for centuries over Bayou-side lunch of fresh catch or jambalaya and conversation with a local fisherman. This evening, whet your appetite on a VIP tour of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum with one of its curators. After learning about the history of food in the South, join a hands-on private cooking class and feast of New Orleans iconic dishes such as jambalaya, gumbo and NOLA Style bananas foster. Indulge in a flavourful Celebration dinner of Creole and Cajun cuisine as you toast to your journey. The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans |
| Day 9 | New Orleans | Depart New Orleans: After one final decadent breakfast, bid 'au revoir' to the Big Easy. Sit back and relax as your complimentary transfer escorts you to the Louis Armstrong Airport. Or, choose to extend your stay in this tempting city. |
- Dates/Pricing
- Disclaimer
- Twin prices are per person.
- These prices are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking.
- All tour information is correct at time of tours going live, however is subject to change, please confirm all details at time of booking.
- For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Conditions page.
- Hotel Class Key: D: Deluxe SF: Superior First Class F: First Class
