Day 1 – Arrive Nashville
Arrive in Nashville and transfer independently to your hotel. After check-in, the remainder of the day is free to get acquainted with this vibrant city. Overnight Nashville, TN.
Day 2 – Nashville/Grand Ole’ Opry
Some of the most intriguing locales in Nashville lie ahead this morning, as you embark on a guided tour of the city. Enjoy glimpses at sites such the Historic Downtown District, Riverfront Park and “Honky Tonk Row,” and learn little-known facts from your local guide. Following your tour, spend the afternoon sightseeing on your own before meeting with the group for dinner. This evening we enjoy a real treat as we take in a performance of the world-renowned Grand Ole Opry. Once the curtain draws, we head backstage for a musician’s perspective on this country music gem. Overnight Nashville, TN. (B, D)
Day 3 – RCA Studio B & Country Music Hall of Fame/Chattanooga
Follow in the footsteps of some of the world’s greatest recording artists with a tour of RCA Studio B this morning - Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio. Immerse yourself in the sounds of history as you hear the stories of some of the greatest entertainers of the 20th century. Elvis, Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison and Waylon Jennings are just of few of the many artists who recorded some of their top hit songs here and we see the studios where this amazing history was recorded. Next, we visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. This iconic museum is filled with exhibits highlighting artists and musicians, both new and old, which helped to put Nashville on the map. Following lunch at leisure we continue onto Chattanooga, our base for the next two nights. Overnight Chattanooga, TN. (B)
Day 4 – Summerville Steam Special
Set out through the lush landscape of Tennessee and Georgia aboard a vintage steam train today with a ride aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s Summerville Steam Special. This railway journey departs from Grand Junction Station in Chattanooga and continues across the Tennessee-Georgia border to Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park, Rock Spring, LaFayette and Trion before stopping in Summerville. While in Summerville, take a look around the historic train depot and find a quaint spot for lunch before boarding your motorcoach for the return drive to Chattanooga. Your afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the local amenities. The walking trails at Rock City Gardens and the Tennessee Aquarium are beloved destinations of visitors. Overnight Chattanooga, TN. (B)
Day 5 – Incline Railway/Pigeon Forge
Look out over Civil War sites, picturesque forest scenery and more from the Incline Railway on Lookout Mountain this morning. This century-old funicular railway offers a leisurely 1-mile ride to the summit, as well as stunning views along the way from large, panoramic windows. Once at the top, enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck, shop at the gift shop, take a walk to Point Park or visit the Battles for Chattanooga Museum for a dose of Civil War history. This afternoon, our motorcoach takes us on an easterly journey through the state to Pigeon Forge. You have the remainder of the day to explore the sites of this mountain town upon arrival. Overnight Pigeon Forge, TN. (B, L)
Day 6 – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Ready yourself for stunning mountains and the serenity of nature as we embark on a half-day tour through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Photo opportunities are bountiful as the tour winds through the park. Enjoy a look at the Rockefeller Memorial at Newfound Gap, and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. The remainder of day is at leisure in Pigeon Forge. Overnight Pigeon Forge, TN. (B)
Day 7 – Great Smoky Mountains Railroad/Asheville
Railway adventures beckon as you board the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s Tuckasegee Steam Train for a 4-hour round-trip journey from Bryson City to Dillsboro, NC. Enjoy the scenic vistas from the panoramic windows of the fully restored rail cars as the train passes through valleys and idyllic countryside as it travels along the Tuckasegee River toward Dillsboro. There is a layover in Dillsboro, which provides a chance to explore the interesting shops and galleries of this tourist hotspot. As the train arrives back in Bryson City, there is time to experience the quaint beauty of the small town independently before boarding your motorcoach bound for Asheville. Overnight Asheville, NC. (B)
Day 8 – Biltmore Estate/Asheville
This morning visit America’s largest home, the Biltmore Estate. The family home of George and Edith Vanderbilt, this estate covers more than 8,000 acres in beautiful Asheville. Your tour of the property includes a look at the stunning home, complete with 16th century decor, a library with over 10,000 books and original art by Renoir. We also have a chance to explore the gardens, winery and equestrian center - all of which are located on the grounds of the estate. While at the Biltmore Estate, join your tour manager and fellow travelers for a Farewell Lunch. This remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the endless offerings of vibrant Asheville. World-class restaurants meet funky art galleries, stunning architecture meets the simple beauty of nature, and your opportunities are endless. Overnight Asheville, NC. (B, L)
Day 9 – Tour Conclusion
Your tour concludes today as you are transferred to Asheville’s Airport for your return flight home. Included group transfer accommodates flights departing after 10:30 a.m.
Destination & Sightseeing
ITINERARY
