Cowboys, Culture and the Sounds of America

Arrive into Grapevine in the mid to late afternoon and collect your rental car before checking into your hotel. Once settled, begin discovering this charming Texas destination by exploring the Historic Main Street District, where preserved buildings, independent boutiques, tasting rooms and local restaurants showcase the town’s unique character.

Alternatively, head to the Grapevine Observation Tower for panoramic views across the surrounding landscape and a memorable introduction to the area as the sun begins to set.

As evening arrives, enjoy your first taste of Grapevine’s renowned food and wine scene, with locally inspired dining experiences providing the perfect way to relax and begin your Texas adventure.

Overnight: Grapevine

Spend today exploring Grapevine’s historic charm, creative communities and renowned food scene. Begin in the Historic Main Street District, where working artist studios, galleries and independent boutiques bring the town’s character to life. Discover local craftsmanship at Holder Dane Gallery, Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery or The Grapevine Foundry, before enjoying a Grapevine Food Tour showcasing the flavours and stories of this vibrant district.

Continue your exploration with time to browse Main Street’s unique shops or visit Grapevine Mills, home to more than 180 shops, restaurants and attractions. For a true taste of Texas style, stop at Cavender’s to pick up some Western-inspired attire.

For something completely unexpected, immerse yourself in Meow Wolf – The Real Unreal, an interactive art experience filled with imagination, creativity and discovery.

This evening, enjoy dinner at one of Grapevine’s many restaurants, from classic steakhouses to local favourites, before experiencing the town’s lively entertainment scene. Catch a performance at the Palace Theatre or enjoy live music throughout the Historic Main Street District.

Overnight: Grapevine

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Grapevine before heading to Fort Worth for a taste of authentic Texas culture. Start the day with coffee at one of the town’s local cafés, take a scenic walk along the trails of Lake Grapevine or explore the peaceful Grapevine Botanical Gardens. Alternatively, step back in time at Historic Nash Farm, where you can discover what life was like for early settlers on the Grapevine Prairie.

After lunch, make your way to Fort Worth aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad (operating on select weekends), travelling in historic style to the legendary Fort Worth Stockyards. When the train is not operating, TexRail provides a convenient alternative.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Stockyards, where Western heritage comes to life through historic saloons, museums, shops and the famous daily cattle drive. Experience the atmosphere of the Old West before returning to Grapevine.

This evening, enjoy dinner at one of Grapevine’s many restaurants before experiencing more local entertainment. Catch a comedy “who-dunnit” murder mystery” at the Texas Star Dinner Theater (available on select Fridays and Saturdays), or enjoy live music along the Historic Main Street District.

Overnight: Grapevine

Today, venture into Dallas, which is easily accessible from Grapevine. Begin with a visit to Wild Bill’s Western Store, where you can browse traditional Western wear, enjoy a Texas beer and even have a cowboy hat shaped to fit.

Continue to Pioneer Plaza, home to the world’s largest bronze monument depicting a cattle drive, before enjoying lunch at one of Dallas’ famous barbecue restaurants, such as Pecan Lodge, The Rustic or Lockhart Smokehouse.

Later, visit Southfork Ranch, made famous as the home of the Ewing family in the television series Dallas, and explore one of Texas’ most recognisable landmarks.

Return to Grapevine for an evening celebrating the town’s wine and culinary scene. Enjoy a tasting at one of the local wineries, dinner at a steakhouse or local restaurant, and live entertainment in Historic Downtown Grapevine or at the Glass Cactus overlooking Lake Grapevine.

Overnight: Grapevine

Leave Texas behind and continue north into Oklahoma, where wide-open landscapes, historic communities and Native American heritage begin to reveal a different side of the American heartland.

As you make your way towards Ardmore, consider a stop in Denton, a lively university town known for its creative atmosphere, independent shops and thriving music scene. Spend time exploring the historic downtown square, browse local boutiques or enjoy a coffee before continuing your journey north.

Crossing into Oklahoma, the landscape begins to change as rolling countryside and open plains replace the urban surroundings of Dallas Fort Worth. One possible stop along the way is Turner Falls, located within the scenic Arbuckle Mountains. Home to Oklahoma’s tallest waterfall, the area offers beautiful views, woodland trails and a chance to experience the natural landscapes of southern Oklahoma.

Continue towards Ardmore, a welcoming community located between Oklahoma City and Dallas Fort Worth. With its historic downtown, local restaurants and connection to the surrounding landscapes, Ardmore provides a convenient base for exploring southern Oklahoma.

Depending on arrival time, consider visiting Lake Murray State Park, Oklahoma’s largest state park, where forests, hiking trails and peaceful waterfront views provide a relaxing introduction to the region. Alternatively, explore downtown Ardmore, home to historic buildings, local shops and the Greater Southwest Historical Museum, which showcases the heritage and development of southern Oklahoma.

Overnight: Ardmore

Leave Ardmore behind and continue your Oklahoma adventure through landscapes shaped by Native American heritage, frontier history and the spirit of the American West.

Begin the day exploring more of Chickasaw National Recreation Area, where mineral springs, scenic waterways and peaceful trails showcase the natural beauty of this unique region. Continue west towards Medicine Park, Oklahoma’s first resort community, where you can enjoy lunch beside Bath Lake, browse its charming shops and galleries, and experience the character of this historic cobblestone village.

Continue into the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, one of America’s oldest wildlife refuges, where rugged landscapes, granite peaks and open prairie provide opportunities to spot bison, longhorn cattle and other native wildlife while enjoying one of Oklahoma’s most scenic areas.

Arrive in Duncan, known as the “Heart of the Chisholm Trail,” where the legendary cattle route that helped shape the American West comes to life. Visit the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, an interactive experience where exhibits, artwork and immersive displays reveal the stories of cowboys, cattle drives and life along the trail.

Depending on timing, explore more of Duncan’s Western heritage through the Stephens County Historical Museum, historic downtown or the city’s Heritage Trails before enjoying dinner and settling in for the evening.

Overnight: Duncan

Leave Duncan behind and continue to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma’s vibrant capital and a destination where Western heritage meets a thriving culinary, cultural and entertainment scene.

Arrive in the city and begin your stay with lunch at The Collective or Parlor, two innovative food halls bringing together some of Oklahoma City’s most exciting chefs and flavours under one roof.

After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon discovering the city at your own pace. Adventure seekers can head to Riversport Adventures for kayaking, zip-lining, white-water rafting or surfing experiences on the Oklahoma River. Alternatively, explore the city’s creative side with a visit to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of glass artwork by Dale Chihuly, or discover contemporary works and exhibitions at Oklahoma Contemporary.

For a more relaxed afternoon, enjoy a stroll through Scissortail Park and the Myriad Botanical Gardens, two beautiful urban spaces in the heart of the city.

Continue your exploration at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, a powerful and moving tribute to the victims, survivors and rescue workers affected by the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

This evening, experience the atmosphere of Bricktown, Oklahoma City’s lively entertainment district. Enjoy dinner overlooking the canal, take a relaxing Water Taxi ride and finish the evening with live music, rooftop views or drinks in one of the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods.

Overnight: Oklahoma City

Continue exploring Oklahoma City with a day that reveals the history, creativity and cultural influences that have shaped the city.

Begin your morning exploring the city’s connection to Historic Route 66, with a journey through some of the Mother Road’s most recognisable landmarks. Visit the iconic Gold Dome, one of Route 66’s most distinctive examples of Googie architecture, and discover the character of the Uptown 23rd District, where restored buildings, independent businesses and local restaurants showcase how the legendary highway continues to evolve.

Continue to the First Americans Museum, where immersive exhibits, authentic architecture and powerful storytelling celebrate the history, culture and contributions of the 39 Tribal Nations headquartered in Oklahoma.

Spend the afternoon discovering Oklahoma City’s Western heritage at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, where extensive collections of Western art, Native American artefacts, rodeo history and frontier stories bring the American West to life.

For those looking to experience more of the city, explore the creative energy of neighbourhoods such as the Paseo Arts District, home to galleries, studios, restaurants and public art, or visit Stockyards City, where Oklahoma City’s working cowboy traditions continue through Western shops, custom bootmakers and historic businesses.

This evening, experience more of Oklahoma City’s growing food and entertainment scene, from locally inspired restaurants to live music venues showcasing the city’s creative spirit.

Overnight: Oklahoma City

Enjoy a final morning discovering more of Oklahoma City’s unique neighbourhoods and local experiences. Explore the creative energy of the Paseo Arts District, where galleries, studios, restaurants and public art showcase the city’s artistic side, or visit the Plaza District, known for its independent shops, colourful murals and welcoming local atmosphere.

Alternatively, continue exploring Oklahoma City’s Western heritage with a visit to Stockyards City, where working cowboy traditions remain part of everyday life through Western stores, custom bootmakers and historic businesses.

In the afternoon, follow the legendary Route 66 north of the city towards Arcadia, where some of the Mother Road’s most recognisable landmarks await. Visit the beautifully restored Round Barn, one of Route 66’s most iconic structures, before continuing to POPS, a modern roadside attraction famous for its collection of more than 700 varieties of soda.

Enjoy dinner at The Chicken Shack before returning to Oklahoma City via Edmond, where public art installations and creative spaces provide a final glimpse of the city’s artistic personality.

Overnight: Oklahoma City

Leave Oklahoma City behind and continue north towards Tulsa, discovering the fascinating stories, cultures and landscapes that have shaped Oklahoma.

Begin in Ponca City at Standing Bear Park, Museum and Education Center, where you can learn the remarkable story of Chief Standing Bear and his landmark civil rights case, one of the first Native American rights cases heard by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Continue to the Marland Mansion, known as the “Palace on the Prairie”, a magnificent Italian-inspired estate that reveals the wealth and ambition of Oklahoma’s oil boom era. Explore the story of oil baron E.W. Marland and the lavish lifestyle of one of the state’s most influential figures.

Continue to Pawhuska, located in the heart of the Osage Nation, for lunch at The Pioneer Woman Mercantile, the popular restaurant and shopping destination created by television personality Ree Drummond. Take time to explore the town’s independent shops and galleries before discovering more about Osage history and culture at the Osage Nation Museum.

Continue to Woolaroc, the former ranch retreat of oilman Frank Phillips. Set across thousands of acres of scenic landscape, the property combines wildlife, Western heritage and a fascinating collection of art and artefacts.

End the day travelling towards Tulsa, with a stop in Bartlesville for local dining before arriving in the city and settling in for your two-night stay.

Overnight: Tulsa

Spend your first full day in Tulsa discovering a city where Route 66 nostalgia, creativity and cultural heritage come together.

Begin with breakfast at one of Tulsa’s classic Route 66 diners before visiting the Philbrook Museum of Art, housed within a beautifully restored Italian Renaissance-style mansion surrounded by 25 acres of gardens. Explore an impressive collection spanning Native American, modern and contemporary art.

Continue your Route 66 journey with a visit to Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curious, one of the Mother Road’s newest icons. Capture a photo with the colourful space cowboy before browsing the unique roadside-inspired shop and learning more about Tulsa’s Route 66 heritage.

Enjoy lunch at Ike’s Chili, a Tulsa institution since 1908, before spending the afternoon at Gathering Place, one of America’s most impressive urban parks. Explore scenic trails, gardens, waterways and interactive experiences designed for visitors of all ages.

Continue your cultural journey at the Woody Guthrie Center, celebrating the life, music and legacy of the influential folk musician whose songs helped shape American music.

Later, discover one of Tulsa’s more unusual stories with a visit to the Tulsa Cave House (by appointment), a quirky landmark with links to the city’s Prohibition-era past and local legends.

This evening, enjoy dinner at one of Tulsa’s excellent restaurants before experiencing the city’s vibrant live music scene.

Overnight: Tulsa

Leave Tulsa behind and continue exploring northeastern Oklahoma, where legendary figures, Route 66 nostalgia and Native American heritage come together.

Begin in Claremore with a visit to the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, celebrating the life, humour and legacy of Oklahoma’s beloved cowboy philosopher. Discover the stories behind one of America’s most famous entertainers and his enduring connection to the American West.

Continue along Historic Route 66 to Miami, where you can enjoy a nostalgic stop at Waylan’s Ku-Ku Burger, one of the Mother Road’s classic roadside landmarks. Continue to the beautifully restored Coleman Theatre, a magnificent 1920s vaudeville theatre featuring ornate architecture and its famous Mighty Wurlitzer organ.

Travel onwards to Tahlequah, the capital of the Cherokee Nation, where you can discover the traditions, history and resilience of the Cherokee people. Explore important cultural landmarks including the Cherokee National History Museum, Cherokee National Prison Museum and Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum.

Continue to Sequoyah State Park, a peaceful lakeside retreat surrounded by forests and natural beauty. Enjoy a relaxing evening with a walk along the shoreline, a scenic sunset or simply time to appreciate the tranquillity of northeastern Oklahoma.

Overnight: Sequoyah State Park

Continue your journey through Oklahoma, discovering the traditions, communities and cultural influences that have shaped this diverse state.

Begin in Muskogee, a city made famous by Merle Haggard’s “Okie from Muskogee”, where you can experience a true slice of Oklahoma heritage. Visit the USS Batfish & War Memorial, explore the peaceful landscapes of Honor Heights Park and discover the region’s multicultural frontier history at the Three Rivers Museum.
Continue south through the Oklahoma countryside, passing through Checotah, the hometown of country music star Carrie Underwood, before arriving in Durant, headquarters of the Choctaw Nation.

Discover the history and traditions of the Choctaw people at the Choctaw Cultural Center, where immersive exhibits, a recreated village and original artwork share the story of a nation whose roots stretch back generations. Afterwards, take time to explore downtown Durant, with its independent shops, local restaurants and welcoming small-town atmosphere.

End the day at Choctaw Casino & Resort, where you can enjoy a choice of entertainment, dining, live music, relaxation and resort amenities.

Overnight: Durant

Leave Oklahoma behind and cross into Louisiana, where Southern hospitality, local flavours and unexpected discoveries welcome you to the next chapter of your journey.

Arrive in Shreveport-Bossier and begin with lunch at Silver Star Smokehouse, enjoying the flavours of authentic Southern barbecue before exploring the area’s diverse attractions.

Continue to Gator’s & Friends Alligator Park and Petting Zoo, where you can get up close to Louisiana wildlife, meet baby alligators and enjoy a fun-filled experience for all ages.

Discover the artistic side of Shreveport with a visit to the R.W. Norton Art Gallery, home to an impressive collection of American and European art spanning centuries, set within beautiful gardens and walking trails.
Continue your exploration of the region’s creative spirit with a visit to Red River Brewing Co., where you can sample local craft beers and discover the story behind one of Shreveport’s favourite breweries.

After time to relax at your hotel, enjoy an evening meal at Three Dons, a stylish dining destination offering fine cuisine and craft cocktails in the heart of Shreveport-Bossier.

Overnight: Shreveport-Bossier

Spend a full day discovering the diverse experiences of Shreveport-Bossier, from Louisiana’s natural landscapes and local flavours to the music stories that helped shape American culture.

Begin your morning at Caddo Lake, a beautiful and mysterious landscape of waterways, cypress trees and bayou scenery on the Louisiana-Texas border. Enjoy time exploring this unique ecosystem and discovering one of the region’s most distinctive natural environments.

Continue with a visit to Morrell Dairy Farm, a family-owned farm and creamery where you can learn about local agriculture and the production of fresh dairy favourites.

Enjoy lunch at Fertitta’s Delicatessen, a Shreveport institution since 1927, famous for its signature “Muffy” sandwich and Italian-American heritage.

Continue your day with a visit to the Shreveport Aquarium, where interactive exhibits and touch tanks offer the chance to discover marine life from around the world. Alternatively, enjoy a behind-the-scenes experience at Chimp Haven, a sanctuary providing a safe home for retired chimpanzees.

Later, step into Louisiana’s musical history with a backstage tour of the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium, where legends including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Hank Williams performed during the famous Louisiana Hayride radio programme.

After time to relax at your hotel, enjoy an evening Spirit of the Red River Cruise, taking in views of the city’s waterways, bridges, museums and riverfront districts while learning more about the area’s history and wildlife.
End the day in Bossier City’s East Bank District & Plaza, a lively entertainment area filled with restaurants, breweries, live entertainment and local attractions, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy an evening in Louisiana.

Overnight: Shreveport-Bossier

Leave Shreveport-Bossier behind and continue south into Central Louisiana, where historic communities, local flavours and Southern hospitality create a more relaxed pace of travel.

Begin your morning at Strawn’s Eat Shop, one of Louisiana’s most beloved diners, famous for its homemade icebox pies and traditional Southern breakfast favourites. Continue your journey to Alexandria, where a welcoming downtown, independent businesses and rich cultural heritage await.

Spend time exploring the city’s walkable downtown, browsing local boutiques, galleries and cafés before enjoying lunch at one of Alexandria’s favourite restaurants. Continue your discovery at Kent Plantation House, a beautifully preserved early 1800s Creole plantation home where costumed guides bring the history of the region to life through the original house, outdoor kitchen, blacksmith shop and surrounding grounds.

Explore Alexandria’s creative side in the Downtown Cultural District, with visits to the Alexandria Museum of Art and River Oaks Square Arts Center, showcasing the work of local and regional artists. Take time to enjoy the city’s café culture before an evening discovering its dining scene.

Finish the day with dinner at one of Alexandria’s local restaurants before enjoying a nightcap at Finnegan’s Wake, home to an impressive whisky collection and one of Louisiana’s most extensive Scotch selections.

Overnight: Alexandria

Continue exploring Central Louisiana with a day that combines fascinating history, scenic landscapes and authentic local experiences.

Begin with breakfast at Sentry Drug & Grill, a much-loved local diner where you can enjoy a traditional Southern breakfast in a classic counter-service setting.

Cross the Red River to explore the Forts Randolph & Buhlow Historic Sites, where you can discover the story of the Civil War’s Red River Campaign through preserved earthworks, historic displays and insights from local guides. Continue your journey through Louisiana’s military heritage with a visit focused on the Louisiana Maneuvers, the World War II training exercises that helped prepare many American forces for global conflict.

Enjoy lunch in the Pineville area before heading outdoors into Kisatchie National Forest, Louisiana’s only national forest. Explore scenic trails such as the Wild Azalea Trail or Backbone Trail, where pine forests, waterways and peaceful landscapes reveal a different side of the state.

End the day at Tunk’s Cypress Inn on the shores of Lake Kincaid, enjoying fresh seafood, Southern favourites and beautiful waterfront views. With live music often featured in the Oyster Bar, it provides the perfect Louisiana-style finale to your stay in Alexandria.

Overnight: Alexandria

Leave Alexandria behind and continue south towards New Orleans, discovering more of Central Louisiana’s unexpected stories along the way.

Begin your journey through Forest Hill, known as the “Plant Capital of the South”. Explore this unique community where generations of family-owned nurseries helped create a thriving horticultural industry supplying plants across the United States.

Continue to the Southern Forest Heritage Museum, a fascinating 50-acre site preserving the story of Louisiana’s timber industry. Explore historic buildings, original machinery, restored locomotives and exhibits that reveal the importance of forestry, conservation and industry in shaping the region.

Enjoy lunch at Lea’s Café in Lecompte, a Louisiana institution since 1928, famous for its legendary ham sandwiches, daily specials and homemade pies.

Continue your journey south towards New Orleans, taking in the scenery of Central Louisiana and passing historic landmarks including Loyd Hall Plantation and Trinity Episcopal Church along Bayou Boeuf.

Arrive in New Orleans and begin your introduction to one of America’s most distinctive cities. This evening, enjoy your first taste of the city’s famous cuisine at Mother’s Restaurant, sampling local favourites including a debris po’boy, red beans and rice or their renowned baked ham.

Overnight: New Orleans

Begin your New Orleans experience with one of the city’s most famous traditions — a café au lait and fresh beignets at Café du Monde, enjoyed in the lively atmosphere of the French Quarter.

Take a City Sightseeing New Orleans Hop-On Hop-Off Tour to gain an introduction to the city’s historic neighbourhoods, landmarks and unique character. Along the way, sample some of New Orleans’ legendary cuisine, from a classic muffuletta at Central Grocery to local favourites such as gumbo and jambalaya at the French Market.

Spend the afternoon exploring the heart of the city, wandering through the French Quarter, discovering Jackson Square and admiring the distinctive architecture, street performers and vibrant atmosphere that make New Orleans unlike anywhere else in America.

Continue your cultural discovery at Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World, where you can step behind the scenes and see how the spectacular floats that bring Carnival to life are created.

Enjoy some time for shopping at The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk before an unforgettable evening at one of New Orleans’ historic restaurants, such as Antoine’s, Galatoire’s, Tujague’s or Broussard’s, where dining is part of the city’s story.

Finish the day with live jazz at Preservation Hall, one of New Orleans’ most iconic music venues and a fitting celebration of the city’s musical heritage.

Overnight: New Orleans

Continue exploring New Orleans through the experiences that reveal the city’s unique character, from its famous cuisine and historic streets to its legendary music scene.

Begin the day with a taste of local life before joining a New Orleans School of Cooking demonstration, where you can discover the stories, traditions and techniques behind the city’s most iconic dishes.

Continue on foot with a Historical French Quarter Walking Tour, uncovering the architecture, characters and fascinating stories that have shaped one of America’s most distinctive neighbourhoods.

Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace, browsing the galleries, boutiques and street performers around Jackson Square and Royal Street, where the creative spirit of New Orleans is always on display.

This evening, experience the city from the water aboard the Steamboat Natchez or Paddlewheeler Creole Queen for a jazz dinner cruise along the Mississippi River. Enjoy views of the skyline while listening to live music and taking in the atmosphere of the Crescent City.

Later, continue the evening in true New Orleans style with live music and entertainment. Experience the energy of Bourbon Street, or venture to Frenchmen Street, a favourite with locals for its intimate venues and authentic jazz performances.

Overnight: New Orleans

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in New Orleans before your journey home. Take the opportunity to savour one last taste of the city with brunch at The Court of Two Sisters, set within a beautiful courtyard in the heart of the French Quarter.

Continue your final discoveries with a visit to The Historic New Orleans Collection, where exhibitions and historic artefacts reveal the fascinating stories, people and events that have shaped the French Quarter and the city beyond.

Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoying one final stroll through the colourful streets, browsing local shops or soaking up the atmosphere of this unforgettable city before making your way to the airport for your onward journey.

From the cowboy traditions of Texas and the cultural stories of Oklahoma to the music, food and heritage of Louisiana, this journey has revealed the many faces of America through the people, places and experiences that make each destination unique.