Rhythms of the South Self Drive
Hit the road on a Rhythms of the South self drive tour and explore Georgia, Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida and South Carolina. Spend 14 days discovering the cities that changed the world’s musical landscape and awakened the civil rights movement.
It won’t take you long to see that true musical expression is an unshakeable part of everyday life here. The South’s musical heritage is permanently weaved into the area’s captivating culture, largely shaped by the American Civil War and the civil rights movement. Explore cities full of stunning antebellum architecture, museums and vibrant neighbourhoods, and dance to the rhythm of the music that forms the fabric of the Deep South.
Wander the streets of New Orleans, drinking in the soft sound of saxophones floating in the air. Enjoy live jazz music as you explore Bourbon Street and Frenchmen Street, dipping in and out of bars in search for a sound that calls to you. Feel the rhythms of country music move you and lose yourself on the dance floors on Nashville’s honky tonks, then head south west and contrast this lively city with the laid back atmosphere of Memphis. Here, blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll music take centre stage. Discover the blues clubs of Beale Street, where the blues were born, and get the chance to tour Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland.
Trip highlights
- Discover Nashville’s rich country music heritage
- Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park, the site of the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg during the Civil War
- Explore the squares and parks that make up the enchanting city of Savannah
- Relax on some of Florida’s stunning white sand beaches
Arrive in Atlanta
Room only
When you arrive in the city of Atlanta, pick up your hire car and make your way to your hotel.
Suggested Accommodation
Atlanta
Room only
Your first full day in America’s South is for exploring Atlanta. Discover its past and how it has become the famous city it is today as you visit its various attractions, such as the African American Panoramic Experience and the Atlanta History Centre.
Suggested Accommodation
Atlanta - Nashville
Room only
Today, you’ll hit the road and drive to Nashville. En route, visit the Chattanooga ‘Choo Choo’ train and make a stop in Lynchburg, where you can tour the Jack Daniel’s whiskey distillery.
Distance: 245m
Suggested Accommodation
Nashville - Memphis
Room only
Spend some time exploring Nashville. Visit the places that tell the stories of the city’s musical heritage, like the Grand Ole Opry or the Country Music Hall of Fame. Later, wave goodbye to Nashville and make your way to Memphis in time for a late dinner.
Distance: 245m
Suggested Accommodation
Memphis
Room only
Today is all about exploring Memphis, the home of the blues. Head to the blues bars on Beale Street to enjoy live performances, take a tour of Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home, or take the monorail to Mud Island.
Suggested Accommodation
Memphis - Vicksburg
Room only
Drive to Vicksburg and visit the Vicksburg National Military Park, which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg during the Civil War. Drive the park’s tour road and take in the monuments, reconstructions and the Vicksburg National Cemetery.
Distance: 217m
Suggested Accommodation
Vicksburg - New Orleans
Room only
Today, you’ll head to New Orleans. On the way, drive through Natchez and Baton Rouge, the heart of the old South.
Distance: 189m
Suggested Accommodation
New Orleans
Room only
Spend today exploring New Orleans. Wander the city and marvel at its fusion of Southern charm and European influence. From the Mississippi River to the French Quarter, there’s a lot to explore here.
Suggested Accommodation
New Orleans - Pensacola
Room only
Leave the city behind and head to Pensacola in Florida, where you can laze on its beautiful white sand beaches and wander the historic downtown district.
Distance: 188m
Suggested Accommodation
Pensacola - Tallahassee
Room only
Today’s route will take you along the Gulf Coast. Pass wildlife preserves and charming fishing villages on the way to Tallahassee, Florida’s capital city.
Distance: 196m
Suggested Accommodation
Tallahassee - Savannah
Room only
Leave Tallahassee behind this morning and head to the historic city of Savannah. Spend the afternoon soaking up the city’s beauty, from its historic antebellum houses to the charming squares Savannah is famous for.
Distance: 301m
Suggested Accommodation
Savannah - Charleston
Room only
Drive to Charleston and spend the day exploring this grand and elegant city. Wander the cobblestone streets and enjoy the beautiful antebellum architecture.
Distance: 105m
Suggested Accommodation
Charleston - Atlanta
Room only
Today is the last day on your self drive tour across the southern regions, catch a flight home or to your onward destination. Alternatively, expand your time in Atlanta even more to discover more of what this great city has to offer or head to another U.S. city or hit the road again and venture on another road trip.
Suggested Accommodation
Depart from Atlanta
Say goodbye to the wonderful American South. Return your hire car and board your flight home.
Included
- International flights
- 13 nights hotel accommodation
- Car hire
Not included
- Car insurance (including any applicable one way drop off fees or insurance)
- Meals or excursions unless specified
- Park entrance fees (if applicable)
- Ferry charges (if applicable)
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