Experience the southern highlights of the United States, from Atlanta to New Orleans. Take a journey into the deep south as you discover bluegrass roots in Memphis, get your cowboy boots out for a try at line dancing in Nashville, experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and tuck into some homemade Gumbo soup - the Louisiana official state cuisine in New Orleans. Southern hospitality has never been so good.
Atlanta to New Orleans trips
Atlanta to New Orleans highlights
Feel the music in Memphis
Memphis offers music lovers a lot more than the chance to visit the Graceland mansion, where you’ll find more shiny jumpsuits than you can point a camera at. If you want to learn more about the birth of rock and soul music, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum should be your first stop. Drop into the historic Sun Studios, where artists such as Roy Orbison, Charlie Rich, Howlin’ Wolf, and Johnny Cash recorded some of their biggest hits. In the evening, get into the groove of Memphis and head to Beale Street's traditional blues clubs, made famous by BB King.
See the sights in Savannah
In 1946, Lady Astor referred to Savannah as 'a beautiful lady with a dirty face', in reference to the crumbling, faded majesty of the city's 18th- and 19th-century mansions. Due to plenty of restoration work, Savannah's face may no longer be dirty, but she's still a city of contradictions. Take a three-hour walking tour that blends the city’s history with some of its best and most delicious eats, learn more about the town’s slave and cotton trade, immerse yourself in its underrepresented history, or jump on a Hop-On Hop-Off trolley tour around town.
Tap your toes in Nashville
Earn your place in the Country Music Hall of Fame as you take part in a recording session with a professional sound engineer at the iconic Studio B in Nashville. If you aren’t much of a singer, you might like to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, explore the Tennessee State Museum, or drop into a distillery for a tasting or two. Allow time for a final finger-lickin’ good dinner on a barbecue, beer and bourbon foodie adventure with an expert guide. Think house-smoked meats, southern-inspired spirits, traditional southern sides, and frosty beers.
Party on Bourbon Street
Bourbon Street, one of the world’s most famous party streets, comes alive after dark when the streets are filled with music and the sound of people having fun. With its raucous atmosphere and drink-as-you-stroll “go cups”, get set for a night to remember (or perhaps forget) along this famous nightlife strip. Want a drink that doubles as a souvenir? Head to one of the bars that offer “go cups” in novelty shapes like a glowing skull or a neon sippy cup branded with the name of a famous Bourton Street drinking spot. It's especially fun when you head there with your tour group.
Atlanta history tour
Atlanta is known as the heart of the civil rights movement and has a rich social history. Immerse yourself in 33 acres of historic houses, gardens, and award-winning exhibitions with a specialist guide at the Atlanta History Center, where you’ll explore the past like never before. The centre is part of a global network of historic sites and museums that connect past struggles to today’s movements for human rights. Next, head to the Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site where you’ll learn more about where Martin Luther King was born and his legacy as a leader.
Cultural adventures in the French Quarter
Many visitors come to New Orleans’ French Quarter to party the night away but there are plenty of cultural pursuits to enjoy here as well. Stroll the streets and admire the iron lacework and gracious balconies of the historic buildings which draw their inspiration from French and Spanish architectural styles. New Orleans also has a thriving artistic community, with many local craftspeople exhibiting and selling their works near Jackson Square. You’ll also find talented musicians and performers busking throughout the French Quarter.
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Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans
Julie · Traveled May 2024
A great trip filled with history, culture and local food.
An easy trip and well organised. A couple of long drives but with stops on the way and some great scenery.
A great all round trip to experience some of the southern states.
Would definitely recommend the trip.
Review submitted 19 May 2024Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans
caitriona · Traveled May 2024
Fantastic trip and leader, very well organised and informative
Review submitted 17 May 2024Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans
Naomi Mabel · Traveled April 2024
If you are a fan of music, US history, and food - this is the trip for you! Definitely recommend booking the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Claire is a FANTASTIC guide!!
Review submitted 22 Apr 2024Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans
Sian · Traveled April 2024
Claire was an incredible guide and driver - absolute superwoman! This trip is full of great memories, lots of learning and fun experiences! There's lots of free time but you will never be bored 😊 Highly recommend - highlight for me was Savannah and Nashville.
Review submitted 20 Apr 2024Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans
Alison · Traveled November 2022
This was my first trip with Intrepid and it exceeded my very high expectations. Thanks to a well paced, super- interesting programme , centrally located, comfortable hotels and above all, thanks to the BEST leader - Travis Hanks - for managing our expectations with such good humour and professionalism! This trip rocked!
Review submitted 28 Nov 2022