The Deep South Overview
Sit on the veranda of a grand antebellum mansion. Visit the home of jazz or the Grand Ole Opry. Lie back on a beach. See where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. Or enjoy a plate of shrimp and grits. All these things and more are on the menu when you visit the discover the natural beauty and fascinating culture of the Deep South,
From beautiful national parks such as The Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee or Mammoth Cave in Kentucky and scenic drives along byways such as the Natchez Trace Parkway to the swamps and bayous of Louisiana. America’s Deep South has its own easy rhythm and laid-back vibe, an unhurried approach to life that chimes with its sleepy landscape and fun-loving towns and cities. Cruise along the mighty Mississippi aboard the American Queen. Toast jazz quartets and feast on jambalaya in New Orleans. Discover the heart of country music in Nashville, and the story of Elvis in Memphis.
If it’s history you’re after, this region has witnessed some of the pivotal moments in American history and you’ll find ample opportunities learn about the past from antebellum mansions and fascinating battlefield tours to uncover the secrets of the American Civil War, to the Civil Rights Movement sites and museums. There’s plenty of Civil War battlefields, grand plantation houses and significant Civil Rights sites to visit. Some of the towns and cities have fantastic preserved Historic Districts too, where you can wander the cobblestone streets gazing at magnificent 18th- and 19th-century architecture, and soaking up the atmosphere. Savannah, Charleston and Louisville are all steeped in the past.
Music is in the very soul of the South, and three of its cities come loaded with musical associations. Memphis is the home of the Blues and some legendary recording studios, while famous Beale Street jumps to the sound of live music. New Orleans’ equivalent is the wall-to-wall Jazz and Blues clubs of Bourbon Street. And what’s left to say about Nashville, America’s ‘Music City’, where Country is king?
On a culinary level enjoy finger-lickin’ BBQ and Southern-fried flavours or spice things up with a little Creole or Cajun influence. Time your visit along the Gulf Coast with one of the regions many seafood festivals for fresh and inventive dishes, and take the chance to learn how to recreate some of southern specialities at the New Orleans School of Cooking.
We offer all types of holidays in The Deep South, which can be tailor-made to suit your interests, timeframe and budget. Whether your interest is in driving the scenic byways on an independent self-drive, visiting the music cities on a rail holiday, cruising the Mississippi River on a paddle steamer, or taking in the history on an escorted tour, we can help you experience The Deep South in a way that suits you.
Destination Highlights
Mardi Gras in New Orleans
Mardi Gras is a wonderful carnival that takes place in New Orleans each year. The festival can be traced back to medieval Europe. It was brought to America by the French-Canadian explorer Jean Baptiste Le Moyne Sieur de Bienville. He settled near New Orleans in 1699. The first Mardi Gras was celebrated in 1703. Today it is a family-friendly carnival with floats, entertainment and exceptional food. It’s a whole lot of fun and a great way to experience the inimitable Louisiana ambience.
New Orleans French Quarter
The French Quarter is New Orleans’ oldest and most famous neighborhood. Its beautiful buildings date back as far as 300 years, many with wrought iron balconies that extend over the tourist-filled sidewalks below. Visitors flock to the French Quarter for sightseeing, shopping, dining, and entertainment, and the area is packed during the annual Mardis Gras celebrations. The best-known area is Bourbon Street, which is alive year-round with throngs of tourists and live music.
Oak Alley Plantation
The very picture of a historic antebellum home, a tour of Oak Valley takes you through the Big House, a Civil War Encampment exhibit and Slave Quarter Exhibit.
Mammoth Cave National Park
The Mammoth Cave lies in the “Land of 10,000 Sinks” or the Caveland Corridor, an area in southwestern Kentucky approximately 80 miles south of Louisville. This region is strongly marked by karstic features of all kinds. With more than 400 miles of passages surveyed so far, the Mammoth Cave is one of the world’s largest known cave systems and was already known to the original native inhabitants of the region by the 1st millennium BC.
Creole Nature Trail
Consider this path through the marshlands and coastline of Louisiana a drive right into the heart of Cajun culture. You’ll encounter gators, beaches, crabbing, fishermen, wildflowers and plenty of chances to sample the seafood along this scenic path.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Park highlights include a variety of flora and fauna, more than 900 miles of hiking trails, and the 6,643-foot-high Clingmans Dome, with its Observation Tower perched atop the mountain’s summit and offering 360-degree views.
Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley Railroad
Tennessee has had a long love affair with the railroad. Along with the mighty Mississippi, railways were of vital importance for the shipping of wood and cotton during peacetime and military supplies during war. Fortunately, much of this rich heritage has been preserved, from the original terminal and an engine from the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo to heritage trolleys and fancy Pullman cars restored as luxury accommodation. Perhaps the most ambitious project has been the Tennessee Valley Railroad, which offers hour-long steam trips.
Memphis and Nashville
No US state can claim the rich musical tapestry that’s evident everywhere in Tennessee. The centre of the nation’s country music scene, Nashville is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame in the city’s famous Music Row. Then, of course, there’s Memphis, the home of gospel and blues, and famous for Beale Street where the greats like Elvis got his big break.
Graceland
Elvis Presley’s Graceland estate is the top attraction in Memphis. Tours of the stately home provide a unique glimpse into the King’s life, and nothing has been changed since he passed away there in 1977. Undoubtedly the most famous rock ‘n’ roll residence in the world, Graceland remains a place of pilgrimage to fans from far and wide. Highlights include the family tomb, an impressive collection of cars, aircraft, and memorabilia, and tours of his living quarters, including the music room, TV room, and Jungle Den.
Best Time to Visit The Deep South
The southern states are hot and humid in July and August and tend to be mild between November and April…April, May, June, September and October are generally the best times to visit when the days are warm and nights are cool. For coastal areas, June to September are best avoided as there can be heavy rain and occasional hurricanes. If you’re interested in one of the best things to do in the Deep South, keep in mind that Mardi Gras takes place in February in New Orleans, and therefore it is advisable to book well in advance.
