Big, bold and with a personality all of its own, America’s Deep South offers an authentic slice of the USA. Join one of Riviera Travel’s escorted tours to experience world-famous music, delicious food, unique culture, and the unmistakeable Deep South hospitality. Here we share the best things to see and do across Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. Focusing on the major cities that we visit on our Deep South USA tours – Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans, Houston, San Antonio, Fort Worth, Dallas, and Atlanta – here’s what’s really worth adding to your must-see list.
Best things to do in Nashville, Tennessee
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Nashville is the home of country music and no visit to Music City is complete without a trip to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, a unique shaped building that looks like a bass clef when viewed from above. It’s an iconic part of the Nashville skyline, but it’s what’s inside this museum that will really wow. Packed full of priceless music memorabilia – we’re talking everything from Johnny Cash’s guitar to Elvis’ famous gold Cadillac – and stories from icons of the music scene, it offers an immersive adventure into the world of country music.
Music Row and RCA Studio B
Head to Nashville’s Music Row, home of some of the biggest record labels and recording studios in the world, including RCA Studio B. Here the retro ‘60s interior will take you back in time to the studio’s heyday, where stars like Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley and the Everly Brothers recorded some of their biggest hits.
Lower Broadway
Wherever you go in Nashville, music fills the air. Take a trip to Lower Broadway, home to Nashville’s “Honky Tonk Highway”. Here rows of live music venues line the streets, offering free performances while you kick back with a cold beer. It’s where stars like Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson started their careers and is the best place in Nashville to catch the “next big thing”.
Grand Ole Opry
And if live music is your thing, you can’t visit Nashville without checking out the famous Grand Ole Opry, country music’s premier live venue. Showcasing the best in country music for nearly 100 years, this is a must visit for any music fan.
Lynchburg
Just less than an hour and a half’s drive from Nashville you’ll find Lynchburg – a classic ‘50s-style Americana town. This unspoilt gem is home to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, where the state’s legendary Tennessee whiskey has been made since 1884. Visitors can tour the distillery and enjoy a taste of Jack’s finest.
Best things to do in Memphis, Tennessee
Graceland
Memphis is synonymous with Elvis Presley, and visiting the King’s famous home, Graceland, is one of the top things to do in this musical city. The grand mansion turned museum, set on a 120-acre estate, offers a fascinating glimpse into the colourful life and career of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Explore the Graceland mansion, where you can see Elvis’ living room, kitchen and famous Jungle Room in all its elaborately decorated, shagged carpet glory. There’s also the chance to pay your respects to the King at his final resting place in Graceland’s Meditation Garden. Separate from the mansion, on this sprawling estate you’ll find the Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum where you can view some of the singer’s dazzling stagewear including rhinestone jumpsuits and capes, as well as the Presley Motors Automobile Museum, featuring his favourite pink Cadillac, Stutz Blackhawk and Dino Ferrari. See first-hand how Elvis travelled in luxury, by stepping aboard one of his customised planes – complete with gold-plate seatbelts – then refuel at one of the eateries specialising in the King’s favourite southern dishes.
Sun Studios
Famously known as “The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll”, Sun Studios is the place where musical legends including B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley honed their unique sounds. You’ll be able to walk around the studios, soaking up the musical history around you. There’s even the chance to stand in the very spot where Elvis recorded some of his earliest hits, and listen to outtakes from recording sessions, bringing this unique musical experience to life.
Civil Rights Museum
This must-visit museum tells the vital 400-year history of the civil rights movement in America. A living legacy to those who fought hard for freedom, justice and equality, the museum is located at the former Lorraine Motel, where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Here, interactive exhibits, collections and visiting speakers help take you through the history of the slave trade, the segregation of the Black community and the inspiring stories of the change-makers who stood up against injustice.
Beal Street and Handy Park
In the heart of downtown Memphis, you’ll find Beal Street – a musical melting pot of blues, jazz, R&B and rock ‘n’ roll. Live music venues, nightclubs, restaurants, and shops line the three blocks, so you can indulge in some delicious Cajun cuisine to the sounds of up-and-coming artists. Well worth a visit in May for the Beale Street Music Festival, which has seen major headlines like The Killers and Neil Young over the years. Just off buzzing Beal Street you’ll find Handy Park, the city’s urban park and amphitheatre. Do as the locals do and head here for live music and performances, in relaxed surroundings.
Best things to do in New Orleans, Louisiana
The Mississippi River
The vast Mississippi River is an important part of the landscape of New Orleans. Stroll along the river’s edge and take a seat on one of the many benches that line the water, to take in the natural beauty of the Mississippi. The Fly, in uptown New Orleans, has plenty of open green space and is a great spot to hang out with the locals, watch the sunset on the river and enjoy a crawfish boil. Of course, if you really want to experience the Mississippi, you need to take to the water, and nothing beats a trip on one of the state’s historic steamboats. Make memories on a classic New Orleans evening jazz cruise, where you can dine and dance onboard a graceful steamboat, while taking in spectacular views of the city at night.
The French Quarter
Stepping into New Orleans’ French Quarter is stepping into a mesmerising world of music, history, and vibrant culture. The beating heart of the city, the French Quarter is lined with beautiful architecture in a kaleidoscope of colours, with ornate cast-iron balconies and undeniable charm. Explore the narrow streets, with live music around every corner, local artists selling their works and quirky cafes serving up New Orleans classic like gumbo, jambalaya and muffaletta, the city’s signature sandwich.
The Swamps
Step away from the bustle of city life and enjoy the awesome scenery and captivating natural wonder of the Louisiana bayous. Glide through gator and snapping turtle territory on a guided boat trip, discovering the unique wildlife and landscape, surrounded by moss-draped cypress trees. Time feels like it stands still as you navigate the calm waters of the New Orleans swamps.
Oak Alley Plantations
This historic New Orleans sugar plantation is breathtaking in its beauty. The grand, tree-lined driveway leads to a neo-classical mansion showcasing the classic antebellum architectural style, but there’s so much more to the plantation than its stunning landscape. Join the guided tour around this National Landmark, to discover the complex history around the plantation and its slavery past.
WWII Museum
Telling the story of the American experience of World War II, this fascinating museum gives a voice to the people who lived through the war that changed the world. Highlights include The Final Mission: The USS Tang Submarine Experience, an interactive, multi-sensory attraction based on the last battle of the USS Tang submarine.
Best things to do in Houston, Texas
NASA Space Centre
Take one great leap for mankind with a visit to Space Centre Houston. It’s a fantastic hands-on attraction where you can see remarkable space artefact including real spacecraft and a large collection of moon rock. At the Mission Mars exhibit you can experience a virtual Martian sunset and climb into a simulated Orion capsule, while the popular Tram Tour will take you on-site at NASA Johnson Space Centre, the home of Mission Control and astronaut training.
MATCH
The cultural hub of the city, MATCH – that’s Midtown Arts & Theatre Centre Houston – is a $25 million arts complex where visitors can watch several performing and visual arts groups under one roof. Everything from ballet to groundbreaking theatre is on offer here, with some performances free of charge.
1940 Air Terminal Museum
Step inside this imposing Art Deco terminal building – once the city’s main airport – to discover Houston’s aviation history. Beginning with the city’s first recorded flight in 1910, permanent and touring exhibitions walk you through how aviation in the area has played its part in everything from the two World Wars right up to present day. Don’t miss the Hawker 125 business jet on display, which has been transformed into a public art project and is now covered in vibrant painting.
Best things to do in San Antonio, Texas
The Alamo
San Antonio’s Alamo is a true historic Texan treasure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was first constructed as a Spanish mission, before it became a military barrack in the early 1800s during the Texas Revolution. The Alamo was the site of a key battle between the Mexican and Texan armies, including Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie, and the visitor centre now tells the story of that conflict. Visit the living history encampment to discover what life was like in the 1830s, walk along The Long Barrack, the oldest building on the Alamo site and explore interesting artifacts including cannons used in the battle of 1836.
The River Walk
There’s no better way to explore San Antonio than on foot along the city’s River Walk. Featuring 15 miles of walkways running along the San Antonio River, most visitors head to the Downtown Reach section of the walk. The gentle river is lined with shady trees, historic buildings and peppered with stone bridges, giving the area a real Mediterranean vibe. Life along the Texan river gently buzzes thanks to the many cafes (this is the place to try some top notch Tex-Mex), street performances and shops you’ll find enroute, but the pace of life is endearingly slow and laid back.
Hopscotch
Get your modern art fix at Hopscotch, an interactive and experimental collective hub for local artists. The 15 large-scale immersive exhibitions, created by over 40 artists, are designed to inspire and challenge visitors, so go with an open mind. Be sure to round off your visit with a trip to the bar to enjoy one of the creative cocktails inspired by the exhibitions.
Pearl District
Once a former industrial area north of downtown San Antonio, the Pearl District is now a vibrant neighbourhood offering a more authentic taste of San Antonio life. Generally thought of as the “cooler”, up-and-coming alternative to the famous River Walk, Pearl District is a great place to grab a bite to eat and people watch.
San Antonio Museum of Art
Housing the most comprehensive ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art collection in the southern United States, alongside work by Latin American and Texan artists, the San Antonio Museum of Art has plenty to keep art fans happy. The gallery also boasts a large collection of Asian art, plus a calendar of temporary exhibitions. If all that culture has worked up an appetite, book at table at The Trattoria, the museum’s on-site restaurant, which serves up excellent Tuscan-inspired food on the tranquil riverside patio.
Best things to do in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth Stockyard District
Capturing the magic of the old Wild West, the Stockyards National Historic District is a true celebration of Western heritage. Everything from the wooden corrals to the old brick streets look straight out of a film set, but this is the real deal. Catch the twice daily longhorn cattle drive in the Stockyards and some authentic country music at one of the many music venues in the district, before shopping for your very own cowboy hat at The Best Hat Store.
Cowtown Coliseum
Home of the first indoor rodeo, Cowtown Coliseum is a legendary landmark in Fort Worth. Some of the best cowboys and cowgirls have put their skills to the test here and the rodeos are as popular as ever with locals and visitors alike. Book your tickets for an unforgettable day of all-American thrills – and don’t forget that cowboy hat.
Dealey Plaza
Infamous Dealey Plaza will always have a place in Dallas history. This is where President John F Kennedy was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald, and today the floor in the former Texas Book Depository building, where Oswald fired the fatal shot, has been turned into The Sixth Floor Museum. Telling the story of that tragic day and the events that led up to it, as well as detailing the legacy left by the former President, the museum shares a crucial part of the country’s history with respect and sensitivity.
Southfork Ranch Tour
If the name isn’t familiar, you’ll certainly recognise the view. Southfork was the set for classic ‘80s TV show, Dallas – the range the Ewings called home. Here you can tour the famous Ewing mansion, as well as the iconic ranch grounds, guaranteed to bring back memories of this hugely popular series. There’s also the chance to see the gun that shot J.R, and Lucy’s unforgettable wedding dress.
Reunion Tower
There’s no better view of the Dallas skyline than 470 feet up in the air, from the GeO-Deck at Reunion Tower. With knock-out 360-degree panoramic views across the city, “The Ball” as it’s affectionately known by locals, lets you take in this magnificent city from the sky. Dazzling by day or by night, it’s a Dallas must-visit.
Trinity Groves
Dallas’ best kept secret, this hip restaurant district offers an eclectic and high-class selection of eateries, serving up a variety of cuisines. With skyline views across the city, large patios for alfresco dining and modern art at every turn, it’s a sophisticated choice for foodies.
Best things to do in Atlanta, Georgia
Alliance Theatre
Culture vultures will be in their element at Atlanta’s famous Alliance Theatre. Putting on a diverse mix of shows and plays, it’s a boundary-pushing theatre that sits at the heart of the Atlanta community.
Atlanta BeltLine
Circling the core of the city, this scenic 22-mile trail is the best way to explore everything that Atlanta and its neighbourhoods have to offer. Transforming unused railroad tracks into trails and walkways, the Atlanta BeltLine links lush green spaces and parks to cosmopolitan districts buzzing with restaurants and bars. Grab a map and take to the streets to explore the public art lined route for yourself.
Botanical Gardens
A green urban oasis in the heart of Midtown, Atlanta Botanical Gardens is the perfect place to switch off and potter during your American adventure in the Deep South. Shady woodland, featuring a unique Canopy Walk, a tropical orchid hothouse, and award-winning Children’s Garden are all waiting to be discovered in this 30-acre garden paradise.
Rainbow Crosswalk
The Rainbow Crosswalks at 10th St. & Piedmont Ave. is Atlanta’s enduring symbol of acceptance, unity, and tolerance. Showing support and respect for the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies across the city and the Deep South, this colourful painted crosswalk is an uplifting and beautiful piece of public art with a strong unifying message behind it.
Holidays to the American Deep South
