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Chicago
A global city with iconic and unexpected experiences.Chicago is full of surprises and is simply a magnificent destination that caters to eve...
Explore MoreExperience the heart and soul of America's music history with this 9-night rail adventure from Chicago to New Orleans, featuring iconic jazz, blues, and rock 'n' roll landmarks, exclusive tours, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
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Embark on a 9-night rail adventure tailored for music aficionados! Begin your journey in Chicago, diving into its vibrant blues scene and iconic landmarks. Then, relax on an overnight train to Memphis, the birthplace of rock 'n' roll, enjoying the scenic landscapes. Explore Memphis, including Elvis’s legendary Graceland. Conclude your musical odyssey in New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, with a jazz brunch at the renowned Court of Two Sisters and an evening jazz cruise. This trip is a dream come true for music lovers!
Trip Highlights:
-Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of Chicago
-Chicago Food Experience Tour
-Admission to Graceland in Memphis
-New Orleans Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner
-Jazz Brunch Buffet at The Court of Two Sisters restaurant
Day 1: Chicago
Welcome to Chicago! After independently transferring to your hotel, dive into the city's rich musical heritage. Chicago’s music history is firmly rooted in jazz and blues, but the diverse music scene offers a variety of genres as well as a thriving musical theatre hub. Experience a jazz or big band performance at the historic Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, continuing a tradition that began in 1907. Explore the famous Chicago blues style at Buddy Guy’s Legends Club, where Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy were among the musicians who developed this legendary style.
(Overnight in Chicago)
Day 2: Chicago
Start your day with a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour, exploring 13 magnificent miles of the Windy City. This flexible tour allows you to visit top attractions like Skydeck Chicago, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and 360 Chicago at your leisure. Take time to stroll down the Magnificent Mile, Chicago's premier commercial district, and discover why this city is truly a gem of the Midwest.
(Overnight in Chicago)
Day 3: Chicago
Today, indulge in the Chicago Food Experience. Sample iconic Chicago-style hot dogs, deep-dish pizza, and Italian beef in one of the city's historic neighbourhoods. This tour highlights why locals are passionate about their unique culinary traditions. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring Chicago’s diverse neighbourhoods, renowned for their cultural and historical significance.
(Overnight in Chicago)
Day 4: Overnight Onboard Amtrak Train
In the evening, travel to the station and board Amtrak’s City of New Orleans for an overnight journey to Memphis. Your journey takes you through the heart of America’s musical heritage, from the world-class Chicago Symphony Orchestra to the electric blues scene, and down to Memphis, home of Beale Street and the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Relax in your private roomette, enjoying complimentary lounge access, priority boarding, and meals onboard. A First Class attendant will assist with your needs, providing turndown service and helping with luggage.
(Overnight onboard Amtrak in a private roomette)
Day 5: Memphis
Arrive in Memphis early in the morning and independently transfer to your downtown hotel. Spend your day exploring the vibrant music scene on Beale Street, where live music fills the air. Visit the Peabody Hotel to witness the famous duck march or explore other local attractions like the National Civil Rights Museum. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and rich cultural heritage that Memphis has to offer.
(Overnight in Memphis)
Day 6: Memphis
Today, delve into the world of Elvis Presley with a VIP tour of Graceland. This comprehensive tour includes an audio-guided tour of the Graceland Mansion, self-guided tours of the VIP exhibit, Elvis’s custom jets, Presley Motors Automobile Museum, The Entertainer Career Museum, and Elvis Discovery Exhibits. Gain an intimate understanding of Elvis's life, seeing first-hand the place he called home and where his family created cherished memories.
(Overnight in Memphis)
Day 7: Memphis to New Orleans
Board Amtrak’s City of New Orleans for a scenic journey to New Orleans. Relax as you travel through the picturesque Southern scenery, arriving in the vibrant city known as the birthplace of jazz. After independently transferring to your hotel, start exploring the unique culture and lively atmosphere of New Orleans.
(Overnight in New Orleans)
Day 8: New Orleans
Begin your day with a jazz brunch at the renowned Court of Two Sisters restaurant, where you can savour delicious local cuisine while listening to live jazz. Spend the rest of the day exploring the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the historic cemeteries known as 'Cities of the Dead'. Learn about the fascinating stories of voodoo and piracy, and admire the view from the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the longest bridge over water in the world.
(Overnight in New Orleans)
Day 9: New Orleans
This morning, consider a swamp tour to witness the diverse ecosystem surrounding New Orleans. Whether you opt for a boat ride, airboat tour, or paddling a kayak or canoe, you’ll have the chance to see alligators, wild boars, owls, snakes, egrets, and other species up close. Return to New Orleans in the afternoon to further explore the French Quarter before embarking on an Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner. Savour the beauty and romance of the New Orleans skyline aboard a paddlewheel boat, enjoying a delicious Creole dinner while jazz music fills the air.
(Overnight in New Orleans)
Day 10: New Orleans
Conclude your journey with an independent transfer to the airport for your return flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of America’s musical heritage.
What's Included:
-Chicago, IL: Three nights at Silversmith Hotel Chicago Downtown (or similar), Room Only
-Memphis, TN: Two nights at Crowne Plaza Memphis (or similar), Room Only
-New Orleans, LA: Three nights at Le Pavillon Hotel (or similar), Room Only
-One-way overnight train ride in a private Roomette from Chicago to Memphis
-Complimentary lounge access at Chicago Train station, priority boarding, and complimentary meals onboard the train from Chicago to Memphis
-One-way Amtrak train ride from Memphis to New Orleans onboard the City of New Orleans
-Hop-On Hop-Off tour in Chicago
-2-hour Chicago Food Experience Tour
-VIP Tour of Graceland in Memphis
-Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner in New Orleans
-Jazz Brunch Buffet at The Court of Two Sisters restaurant
Flights & Luggage Inclusions:
-One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage per person.
-Flights from your chosen departure airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport, returning from New Orleans Airport.
Flight Details:
-London Heathrow & Edinburgh: Direct flights to Chicago O'Hare. Indirect flights from New Orleans to London Heathrow or Edinburgh.
-Manchester: Indirect flights both to Chicago O'Hare and from New Orleans to Manchester.
Optional Excursions:
-Chicago Culture & Architecture Discovery Tour
-Admission to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis
-Memphis Discovery Tour
-One Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour Ticket in New Orleans
-New Orleans Jazz Tour
-Swamp & Bayou Tour in New Orleans
-Airport transfers in both Chicago or New Orleans
A global city with iconic and unexpected experiences.Chicago is full of surprises and is simply a magnificent destination that caters to eve...
Explore More
Chicago is full of surprises and is simply a magnificent destination that caters to every kind of traveller. No matter what time of year, visitors in search of a city break will love Chicago's legendary lake front, world-class museums, innovative architecture, hot clubs, award-winning restaurants and unsurpassed shopping options. In the heart of the Midwest, Chicago boasts soaring skyscrapers, 77 colourful neighbourhoods, 42 kilometres of lakefront with 26 beaches and 580 parks and green spaces. Take a trip up to Willis Towers Sky deck to witness "The Ledge" - four all-glass bays extending off the west side of the 103rd floor for a completely unique view of the city. When the summer sun arrives, Chicago restaurants and bars take sustenance to the streets, offering patio and garden seating throughout the city. Piccolo Sogno, Corosh, The Park Grill and Puck's at The MCA are few al fresco favourites. If it is music you have come for, you’ll find everything from live music venues to outdoor events like Millennium Park concerts, Lollapalooza and the Chicago Blues and Jazz Festivals. For nightlife, head to the many cocktail lounges, sports bars or dance clubs that dot the entertainment landscape.
Known as the birthplace of rock ‘n roll and blues, Memphis is home to Graceland, served as a recording base for artists like Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis; plus, its famous Beale Street was the location of the first blues notes. From gritty, glittering Beale Street to makeshift recording ...
New Orleans is one of the world's most fascinating cities – it is home to a truly unique melting pot of culture, food and music. New Orleans is one of America's most culturally and historically rich destinations. A culture-lover's dream, the city boasts awarding-winning museums;...
The Silversmith Hotel Chicago Downtown offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Loop district. Located just steps from iconic attractions such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the bustling Magnificent Mile, this boutique hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the city's rich cultural and musical heritage. The hotel's elegantly appointed rooms feature contemporary decor, plush bedding, and high-end amenities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests can also enjoy on-site dining at Adamus Lounge, which serves a variety of culinary delights and craft cocktails in a sophisticated atmosphere. Whether you're in town for a musical pilgrimage or a leisurely getaway, the Silversmith Hotel promises a memorable Chicago experience.
The Crowne Plaza Memphis hotel is located downtown Memphis, walking distance from the Trolley line and nine blocks from the entertainment district. Amenities include one restaurant, room service (6am - 10pm), cocktail lounge, business centre, meeting/banquet facilities, safe-deposit service at the front desk and dry cleaning/laundry service. Recreational facilities include an outdoor swimming pool (seasonal) and fitness centre. Self-parking is $22 per day. Free Internet access and local area shuttle service.
Le Pavillon Hotel in New Orleans is a historic and opulent establishment that exudes the charm and elegance of the early 20th century. Located in the heart of the city, this luxury hotel is known for its lavish décor, featuring antique furnishings, crystal chandeliers, and ornate architecture that transport guests back in time. Each room is uniquely decorated, offering a blend of modern comfort and classical beauty. The hotel boasts exceptional amenities, including a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city, a renowned restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, and a nightly tradition of serving peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in the lobby. Its prime location provides easy access to the vibrant French Quarter, making Le Pavillon an ideal base for exploring the rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere of New Orleans.