From Nashville to New Orleans: 7-Day Tennessee Music Trail offers a lively trip through the heart of America’s musical soul. For $3,220 per person, you’ll spend six days hopping between Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans, visiting iconic landmarks like the Country Music Hall of Fame, Graceland, and Congo Square. Led by knowledgeable guides like Tom or Sarah, this tour combines history, music, and food into an authentic experience that feels more like a journey with friends than a typical sightseeing bus ride.
What we really like about this experience is the chance to get hands-on — whether you’re recording a track in Nashville or rolling up your sleeves in a Cajun cooking class. We also appreciate the carefully curated visits, like the Stax Museum and Tremé neighborhood, which provide genuine insight into the cultural roots of music and Black heritage.
A possible consideration is the fast pace, with back-to-back sites in six days; it might feel rushed for those wanting deep dives rather than quick glances. Still, if you’re eager to cover a broad spectrum of Southern music and history in a relatively short trip, this tour offers great value.
This experience suits travelers who love music, history, and food, and prefer small group settings for more personal interactions. It’s ideal for folks with a sense of adventure who want to see the deep musical roots of the American South without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.
Key Points
- Music & History: Visit legendary sites like the Country Music Hall of Fame, Graceland, and Congo Square to understand the roots of American music.
- Authentic Experiences: Participate in a recording session, a jazz tour, and a Cajun cooking class for a hands-on feel.
- Small Group Travel: Limited to 12 participants, offering a more personal and flexible atmosphere.
- Cultural Depth: Explore Memphis Civil Rights history and the Treme neighborhood’s rich jazz scene.
- Culinary Highlights: Learn to make a classic New Orleans Cajun dish, incorporating the region’s beloved flavors.
- Value for Money: Six nights’ accommodation, most meals, and key activities included, providing a comprehensive taste of the South.
A Detailed Look at the Tennessee Music Trail
Starting in Nashville, the capital of country music, this tour kicks off with an orientation walk and an optional welcome dinner. The next day, you’ll dive into Nashville’s musical excellence at the Country Music Hall of Fame, home to Elvis’s gold Cadillac and countless other memorabilia. The highlight is the Studio B tour, where you’ll meet a sound engineer and even record your own track — a fun, immersive way to understand Nashville’s “sound.” We loved the way this session makes music production accessible, turning a passive visit into a creative experience.
In Nashville, we also appreciate the balance of guided activities and free time, allowing you to explore places like Broadway’s honky-tonks or visit local shops. The tour’s emphasis on the city’s musical legacy is clear without feeling overwhelming.
A scenic drive takes you to Memphis, the birthplace of soul and blues. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is a must-see, with its original location at Stax Records, where stars like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes recorded hits. The chance to “cut a rug” on their dance floor makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a soul music dance party. Multiple reviews mention how this site “captures the essence of Memphis’ musical heart,” making it a favorite stop.
Later, the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel offers a sobering yet inspiring look at social change and history. This site’s emotional impact is undeniable, and understanding this history deepens your appreciation for Memphis’ cultural significance.
Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home and final resting place, is often described as kitschy but charming. The tour gives a glimpse into the superstar’s glamorous lifestyle, with plenty of Elvis memorabilia. Travelers note that “it’s like stepping back into the 70s,” and many find the experience surprisingly fun and nostalgic.
Traveling onward to New Orleans, the journey from Memphis provides a scenic route through the South. Once in the Crescent City, a Black Heritage & Jazz tour introduces you to Congo Square, Louis Armstrong Park, and the vibrant Tremé neighborhood. These sites reveal how jazz was born and grew within a community shaping American culture. The local guide’s storytelling brings these neighborhoods alive, and you’ll enjoy browsing in shops along Bayou Street afterward.
A leisurely free morning allows you to soak in the city’s unique vibe, from historic French Quarter streets to lively street performers. As afternoon arrives, the highlight is a Cajun and Creole cooking class. This hands-on experience underscores the importance of food in New Orleans’ identity. You’ll learn about local ingredients, cooking techniques, and classic dishes, then sit down to enjoy your culinary creations with your group.
The tour wraps up on the final morning with a relaxed breakfast, leaving you with a well-rounded memory of the city’s musical, cultural, and culinary riches.
Planning more time in Nashville? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At just over $3,200, this trip packs in six hotel nights, most meals, and all major activities. The small group size ensures individual attention and more genuine interactions. The inclusion of unique experiences, like recording in Nashville and cooking in New Orleans, adds value beyond simple sightseeing.
While the price might seem steep for a six-day tour, it reflects quality accommodations, expert guides, and curated activities that give you a real feel for each city’s musical soul. The tour’s focus on authentic sites and local culture ensures you’re not just taking photos but truly understanding and experiencing the South’s musical heartbeat.
Transport is by private vehicle, ensuring comfort and efficiency — no wasting time on public transit or waiting around. The pace is brisk but manageable, designed to maximize your time at each site without rushing every moment.
Final Thoughts
This tour is a fantastic choice for music lovers, history buffs, and foodies eager to explore the deep roots of Southern culture. Travelers who enjoy small groups and personal interaction will find this format especially appealing. It’s a well-balanced itinerary that offers a mix of iconic landmarks and authentic experiences, making it more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s an immersion into the musical and cultural soul of Tennessee and Louisiana.
If you’re seeking a trip that combines history, live music, and mouthwatering cuisine, this Tennessee Music Trail will satisfy your curiosity while offering moments of fun and reflection. Be prepared for some walking, a fair bit of singing along, and plenty of delicious Southern dishes.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Vegetarians and Vegans may find fewer options, as much of Southern cuisine features meat. It’s best to inform the tour operator beforehand to see if accommodations can be made for your dietary needs.
What is included in the price?
The tour covers six breakfasts, one dinner, transportation by private vehicle, six nights’ hotel accommodation, and all listed activities like the Nashville recording session, Memphis museums, and New Orleans cooking class.
Are airport transfers included?
No, airport pickups and drop-offs are not included, but a taxi to the airport takes about 15 minutes and costs around $30 USD one way.
How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, fostering a friendly, more personal environment.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport, visa if needed, a reusable water bottle, and appropriate clothing — especially during warmer months when the South can be quite steamy. Rain gear is advisable if traveling during hurricane season (September to November).
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small group sizes and shared experiences make it a great choice for solo adventurers looking to meet like-minded people.
How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect some walking and standing during site visits and activities, but it’s generally manageable for most travelers with moderate mobility.
To sum it up, the From Nashville to New Orleans: 7-Day Tennessee Music Trail offers an engaging, well-rounded exploration of Southern musical and cultural heritage. It’s ideal for those who crave authentic experiences, enjoy learning through participation, and want to see how music and history blend in these iconic cities. While the pace is lively, the diversity of activities and meaningful encounters make it a trip worth considering for anyone eager to understand what makes the South such a musical and cultural treasure.
You can check availability for your dates here:
More Great Tours Nearby