Music Road

Day 1: Chicago

Chicago, often called the "Windy City," is a vibrant metropolis known for its stunning architecture, iconic skyline, and rich cultural diversity. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it boasts a world-class food scene, renowned museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, and a deep-rooted sports culture with passionate fans

Day 2: Chicago

Explore some of Chicago’s iconic attractions such as the Cloud Gate sculpture at Millennium Park, the Ledge glass balcony at Skydeck Chicago off the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, and the new Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier. With more than 200 live music venues and clubs, no matter your musical taste, you’ll find it live in Chicago every night of the week.

Day 3: Springfield

Head out on historic Route 66 for a true slice of Americana. The famous road is dotted with homey cafés, quirky shops, and unique roadside attractions.

Day 4: St. Louis

Visit the iconic Gateway Arch, the tallest man-made monument in the USA. St. Louis is also renowned for its diverse music scene, with stellar live music in the Soulard neighborhood or in the Loop.

Day 5: Nashville

No music tour would be complete without a visit to Nashville, Tennessee, home to Country music. At the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, recordings, touch screens and memorabilia trace Country music from its roots to the present. The museum also offers tours of RCA Studio B, where artists such as Dolly Parton recorded songs.

Day 6: Nashville

Don’t miss your chance to see today’s Country music stars perform. The Grand Ole Opry is the place to see today’s Country music stars perform. For a variety of genres, catch a concert at the Ryman Auditorium, the historic church building that was once the home of the Opry. Nearby, new art flows regularly into the Frist Center for the Visual Arts (its Art Deco architecture is worth a stop for its own sake).

Day 7: Memphis

Memphis is a pilgrimage city for music-lovers. Tour Sun Studio where legends such as B.B. King and Elvis Presley recorded some of their earliest hits. For an intimate look at Presley’s life, tour his Graceland estate.

Day 8: Memphis

At the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the rhythm shifts to Soul and Gospel. View memorabilia from Stax artists including Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes, whose gold-plated Cadillac is displayed. For a sampling of Memphis’ contemporary sounds, walk Beale Street, where live music seems to drift from every open door. The aroma of barbecue fills the air, too. Savor local specialties.

Day 9: Natchez

Your journey will take you past bygone plantations and restored antebellum mansions. Take time to explore some of these incredible homes that tell the stories of the South.

Day 10: New Orleans

Head to New Orleans. With its centuries-old cottages, its historic French Quarter and elaborate cemeteries, the city is a photographer’s delight.

Day 11: New Orleans

New Orleans is also a musical city where you will have the chance to listen to fabulous musicians playing traditional New Orleans jazz. Cuisine and the cocktail culture are vital to the New Orleans experience, too. From open-air cafés to fine-dining restaurants, you’ll find countless interpretations of local signature dishes.

Day 12: New Orleans

End of the tour. Return the car (airport).