Rhythms of the Deep South

Embark on a journey through the soulful heart of the American South, where music flows through the streets, history lingers in the air, and every stop tells a story.

This immersive tour takes you from the honky-tonks of Nashville to the birthplace of Elvis in Tupelo, along the storied Blues Highway to Clarksdale, and down the Mississippi River to Natchez, before arriving in the vibrant streets of New Orleans.

Along the way, experience the roots of country, blues, soul, and jazz in the places where legends were born and songs that shaped a nation were recorded. Explore iconic studios and historic venues, walk in the footsteps of musical pioneers, and discover the rich cultural heritage that inspired generations of musicians.

More than just a music tour, this journey is a feast for the senses: savour Southern cuisine from hearty po’ boys to sweet beignets, take in the natural beauty of the Louisiana bayou, and enjoy the rhythms, stories, and flavours that make the Deep South an unforgettable destination.

Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or simply curious about the soul of America, this tour promises a rich tapestry of history, culture, and sound that will leave you tapping your feet long after the journey ends.

This USA self drive holiday can be tailored to suit your exact requirements, so just let us know your ideal trip.

Everything can be adjusted to suit your needs and create your perfect USA holiday.

Is this a Private Tour or a Group Tour?

All of our USA tours are private, tailor-made itineraries, designed around your preferences. We can adjust every element to suit your interests, pace, and travel style. This particular USA trip includes flights, accommodation, and car rental (where applicable).

What are the Departure Dates?

Since this is a private trip, there are no set departure dates. Let us know your preferred dates of travel, and we will find the best flights to fit your itinerary. We can advise on the best times to visit each region of the USA, as well as periods to avoid due to peak tourist seasons, inclement weather, or when travel would simply be better timed for your itinerary.

Which Airlines do you use?

We work with all major airlines flying to the USA. Depending on your departure city, we typically suggest carriers such as Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, and Delta. If you have a preferred airline or route, just let us know. We can also organise flights from any regional UK airport. There are direct flights from the UK to many US hubs including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and San Francisco.

Which Hotels do you use?

We carefully select hotels based on location, style, and quality, but we are guided by your preferences. We specialise in boutique hotels, charming historic properties, and smaller luxury hotels where available. In major cities like New York, Chicago, or San Francisco, hotel rooms can sometimes be smaller and more expensive, and many properties lean towards a more business-style design. If room size or character is important to you, please let us know and we can suggest alternatives.

We also consider proximity to attractions and transport links, as driving or using public transport in large cities can add travel time.

Please note that many US hotels charge resort or facility fees (covering amenities such as Wi-Fi, fitness centres, or pools). We try to include these in our pricing wherever possible, but as policies vary by hotel, we recommend checking with us for details at the time of booking.

Car Rental & Driving in the USA

Many of our itineraries include car rental to explore regions at your own pace. Rental cars give you freedom, but there are a few practical points to note:

• One-way fees: Some itineraries involve picking up a car in one city and dropping it off in another. One-way fees can apply, depending on the rental company and locations. We will try to include these where possible.

• Parking: City hotels may charge for parking, and rates can vary. We will guide you on likely costs.

• Insurance & Navigation: We can advise on the best insurance coverage and suggest GPS or app-based navigation for ease of travel.

• Driver Requirements: A valid driver’s licence is required. For most rentals, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, particularly if you plan to drive across multiple states.

Ask us for more details so you can plan your trip with confidence.

Isn’t the USA expensive now?

Well, it depends on where you go! The USA offers incredible variety, from budget-friendly options to luxury experiences. We plan your trip to balance value and comfort, helping you get the most out of your accommodation, transport, and excursions. Many of our itineraries include car rental, which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

There’s plenty to see and do without spending much, from scenic drives and hiking trails to charming small towns and local markets. Entrance fees to national parks, museums, or attractions are generally reasonable but vary by location. Private guided trips can be more expensive, but there are also plenty of small-group options available, which allow you to enjoy expert guidance while keeping costs manageable.

We can mix and match this to suit your itinerary. Dining in the USA can suit every budget — from food trucks and diners to world-class fine dining.

Nashville

Commonly known as ‘Music City’ and ‘The Country Music Capital of the World’, Nashville is the ultimate pilgrimage site for music fans from around the globe.

Despite its association with a rather honky-tonk, cowboy boot-clad crowd, Nashville has a lesser-known culturally rich and sophisticated side bolstered by a steady influx of young people who ensure that there is constantly something new and innovative going on.

Beyond the tourist-focused downtown area, designer stores, hip art galleries, trendy breweries and quirky coffee shops seem to be popping up around the city’s lively neighbourhoods and occupying its gorgeous old Classical and Neoclassical buildings.

With its fabulous food scene, rich musical heritage, and wonderful historical sights, Nashville always makes for some captivating and inspiring travel experiences.

Memphis

Legendary music, hearty Southern-style soul food and incredible vistas overlooking the mighty Mississippi - you will find all this and more in the wild-spirited river-town of Memphis, Tennessee.

The city offers a beguiling blend of Southern tradition and modern efficiency. It is a place where aging cotton warehouses stand alongside state-of-the-art new office buildings, and where old-fashioned paddle wheelers steam upriver past the city's most striking landmark, the gleaming, stainless-steel Pyramid Arena.

As the birthplace of blues and the site of much activity in the historical development of rock ‘n roll, Memphis’s musical heritage is just as diverse as its architectural delights.

Highlights include the famed jazz, blues and rock ‘n’ roll joints lined up on Beale Street, the heavily storied Sun Studio and of course Elvis Presley’s impressive Graceland mansion.

Tupelo

Best known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo draws visitors from across the globe to the humble Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum, where fans can explore the King’s early life. Beyond the music legacy, the town offers a wealth of attractions that highlight Mississippi’s cultural and natural charm.

The vibrant downtown boasts unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving up classic Southern flavors. With its warm hospitality, deep musical roots, and mix of history and modern culture, Tupelo is both a pilgrimage for Elvis enthusiasts and a delightful stop for curious travelers alike.

View Itinerary in Detail

To view a sample holiday, click on one of the links below. This will open the itinerary up in a new window.

All of our USA Holidays are completely tailor made and we can put together any kind of itinerary to suit your interests and budget.

We have many other options so if you have a particular hotel in mind just let us know and we'll put together a price and itinerary for you.