Top 6 best things to do in the Deep South

Exploring the Deep South feels like stepping into the soundtrack of America.  From the birthplace of the blues in Memphis and the iconic rock ‘n’ roll legacy of Graceland to the soulful twang of country music in Nashville and the vibrant jazz that flows through the streets of New Orleans.  This part of the USA offers a chance to explore the region through its music, culture, and history – not to mention its stunning landscapes and delicious Southern cuisine.  One thing that stands out in the Deep South is the great Southern hospitality, and as you explore each destination, you’ll quickly realise that the people are just as much a part of the experience as the landmarks and culture.

The Deep South spans a vast stretch of the USA, covering states including Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina.  Whether you want to focus solely on the must-see spots or mix things up with some Deep South city excitement plus a beach escape in a different region, such as the coast of Florida or Mexico, it makes a great option for a multi-centre holiday with something for everyone.

We’ve selected some of our must-see highlights in the region…

The Deep South in a nutshell:

• Memphis, Tennessee: Elvis Presley’s Graceland and the birthplace of the blues.
• New Orleans, Louisiana: Vibrant jazz scene and Mardi Gras celebrations.
• Mississippi River: Iconic waterway with scenic cruises and southern charm.
• The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina: Breathtaking views and walking trails.
• Nashville, Tennessee: The home of country music and iconic landmarks.
• Charleston, South Carolina: Historic, coastal charm with pastel-coloured buildings.

Exploring The Deep South:

Memphis, Tennessee: Graceland & The Sound of Blues

Whether you’re strolling down Beale Street, soaking in the blues at every corner, or visiting Graceland to pay homage to Elvis Presley, Memphis oozes an unmistakable energy. At its core flows the mighty Mississippi River which has inspired countless songs.

A visit to Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic estate, will be undoubtedly top of your must-do list, located just outside the city centre. Here you can gain a glimpse into the ‘King’s’ world, exploring his eccentric Jungle Room with its floor-to-ceiling green carpet, admiring his sequinned and rhinestone-encrusted jumpsuits, and taking a moment of peace in the Meditation Garden, where Elvis and his family are laid to rest. You can gain a further glimpse into his superstar lifestyle at the Elvis Presley Car Museum, which houses his pink Cadillac, plus his custom-made private jets, including the Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II.

Back in the city, Beale Street is the beating heart of Memphis, with its neon lights and the sounds of the blues spilling out of every bar and club. This stretch has been a hub for musicians since the early 1900s and is lined with lively venues such B.B. King’s Blues Club, Rum Boogie Café, and The Orpheum Theatre.

For further musical immersion, visit Sun Studio, known as the ‘Birthplace of Rock ’n’ Roll’ where legends such as Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and B.B. King recorded their tracks. Also, visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, which celebrates the legacy of Stax Records and charts the history of soul music and its impact on American culture.

The excellent National Civil Rights Museum is another great spot in the city, offering a fascinating look into the struggle for equality and justice in America among African Americans. Located at the Lorraine Motel, the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, you can explore exhibits from key moments in the civil rights movement, including the Rosa Parks bus, the Freedom Rides, and various interactive displays.

Memphis cuisine is as bold as its music scene. Make sure you try the Memphis-style barbecue, fried catfish, spicy fried chicken, and biscuits and gravy. And for those with a sweet tooth, indulge in the comfort food staple, the delicious banana pudding!

New Orleans, Louisiana: Vibrant Jazz & Mardi Gras

From the jazz that fills the air to the lively brass bands marching down Bourbon Street, to buskers who bring their own vibe to the city’s streets, it’s clear New Orleans lives and breathes music. Known as the ‘Big Easy’ for its laid-back lifestyle, New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, where greats such as Louis Armstrong perfected their craft. The city’s musical energy is so contagious, you’ll find yourself caught up in the rhythm or tapping your feet spontaneously!

New Orleans’ music scene is the perfect place to start your exploration. Begin at Preservation Hall, an iconic venue that has been showcasing traditional New Orleans jazz since the early ’60s. This venue offers a truly authentic experience, with live jazz every night. Also head to Frenchmen Street, known for its eclectic mix of live music venues, where you can catch everything from jazz and blues to funk and soul. And of course, wander through the French Quarter, the heart of New Orleans, where you’ll find more live music, particularly on Bourbon Street, where you’ll hear the sounds of jazz, blues, and party tunes.

If you’re lucky enough to visit at the start of Lent, the Mardi Gras parade is an iconic experience that shows off the city at its very best, with brass bands marching through the streets, colourful floats, and vibrant costumes.

For a quieter experience, take a leisurely stroll along Royal Street, where you’ll pass historic buildings, art galleries, and antique shops. Or visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, one of the city’s most historic landmarks, believed to be the final resting place of Marie Laveau, known as ‘the voodoo queen’.  History buffs will love to visit the National WWII Museum which offers stories of the war and an insight into New Orleans’ role as a key site for ship building.

The Mississippi River famously bends through New Orleans, shaping both the city’s geography and giving it its alternative nickname, the ‘Crescent City.’ This iconic curve also inspired Crescent Park, a beautiful space along the riverfront that offers great views of the river and skyline. For a different perspective of the river and city, hop aboard an iconic steamboat to enjoy panoramic views.

The Mississippi River: Cruises & Storytelling

One of the true pleasures of the Deep South is taking life at a leisurely pace, and there’s no better way to do this than by cruising the Mississippi River. A variety of river cruises, from paddlewheel steamboats to smaller vessels, offer a chance to glide along this iconic waterway. Cruises depart from the major cities including New Orleans, Memphis, and Natchez, and you can spend anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Onboard, you’ll be treated to some great Southern cuisine, live music, and storytelling that brings the history of the river to life. Many cruises stop at iconic places such as Vicksburg, renowned for its pivotal role in the Civil War, and Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana. The true joy of a cruise though along the Mississippi, is enjoying the relaxed pace and learning stories about the steamboat era, the river’s role in the Deep South’s history, and the lives of the people who have lived along the riverbanks – from Native American tribes to jazz musicians and plantation workers.

The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina: Walking Trails & Stunning Scenery

Gaining their name from the mist and fog that often shroud this area, the Smoky Mountains allow you to breathe in fresh mountain air and fully appreciate the region’s natural surroundings and wildlife. So dust off your walking boots and explore the rugged walking trails and breathtaking views that stretch across this expansive UNESCO world heritage site across the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. Among the must-see spots are Cades Cove, a pretty valley with historic cabins from early pioneer life and lots of wildlife such as white-tailed deer, black bears, and pileated woodpeckers. Also, head to Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, where you’ll find the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower at the summit, offering views that reach as far as 100 miles in certain directions of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. To reach the tower, there is a half-mile paved path from the Clingmans Dome parking area.

For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Alum Cave Trail offers breathtaking views, or for something a little easier, Laurel Falls Trail is a lovely walk that leads to the park’s most popular waterfall.

If you don’t fancy walking, there are some great drives such as the scenic route along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This is a one-way loop through forests, passing historic log cabins, the Roaring Fork stream, and offering access to stunning waterfalls such as Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls. You can either self-drive or take a guided jeep tour.

There are various campsites within the park, but if you’d prefer a bit of luxury, there are plenty of hotels and cabins close to the park’s entrances. Popular entry points include Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in Tennessee, as well as Cherokee and Cataloochee Valley in North Carolina.

Nashville, Tennessee: Country Music & Iconic Landmarks

Nashville, known as ‘Music City,’ is the ultimate destination for country music fans. Start your exploration at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can explore the lives of legendary artists and view fascinating memorabilia from the early days of country music to current-day stars. Next, visit the iconic Hatch Show Print Shop, famous for creating posters for music icons such as Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley. A trip to the Johnny Cash Museum is essential for a deeper look into his life and legacy, where you’ll find handwritten lyrics, stage costumes, and exhibits showcasing his incredible career.

At the heart of Nashville’s music scene is the Honky Tonk Highway, a stretch that is lined with lively bars and music venues, typically country, rockabilly, and blues. As you walk down this famous street, you’ll hear a cacophony of guitars, fiddles, and singing spilling out of the venues.

The Frist Art Museum is a stunning Art Deco building that was once the city’s main post office and is now Nashville’s cultural institution for visual arts. It houses a fascinating range of exhibitions from international artists and renowned collections, with everything from classical to contemporary works. The museum’s design is a work of art in itself, with a marble atrium and intricate mosaics.

If your timing is right, try to catch a performance at the Grand Ole Opry, a live radio show and performance venue in Nashville. It began as a simple radio broadcast in 1925 but has since evolved into an institution that encompasses a range of musical genres and has featured legendary performers over the years including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift, and Adele. If you don’t manage to catch a show, take one of the backstage tours for a  glimpse behind the curtain. Another fabulous music venue in the city is the Ryman Auditorium, nicknamed the ‘Mother Church of Country Music.’ The Ryman Auditorium was originally a place of worship but quickly became known for its exceptional acoustics and now offers incredible shows and guided tours backstage.

Charleston, South Carolina: Coastal Charm & Pastel-coloured buildings

Charleston is a city that feels like it’s leapt straight out of a postcard. Often ranked as one of the most desirable cities to live in the USA, with its pastel-coloured buildings, charming cobblestone streets, six beaches, and iconic Rainbow Row, it ticks all the boxes. While it might seem a little touristy, one of the best ways to soak it all in is by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city. You’ll pass by beautiful mansions, wind through streets lined with history, and head to the coast and the sparkling blue sea.

The city is a key landmark in American history, especially when it comes to its role in the Civil War.  The war began at Fort Sumter, located on an island in Charleston harbour. Take a boat tour to the island to see the original guns, fort and historic fortifications. Charleston’s history also has another dark side, with the city playing a role in the country’s slave trade. The Old Slave Mart Museum, located in a building that once served as a slave auction gallery, now preserves this painful history. Inside, you can view artifacts such as leg shackles and listen to powerful stories about the experiences of enslaved individuals. Just a short drive from downtown Charleston, you’ll find Boone Hall Plantation.   Its iconic Avenue of Oaks, planted in the 18th century, offers a stunning glimpse into the grandeur of the Old South.  Visit the historic main house and the preserved Slave Street cabins, which house exhibits about the lives of those who lived and worked there.

For a spot of shopping, head to the vibrant Charleston City Market or King Street, the city’s main hub for shopping and dining, lined with charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Also, take a leisurely stroll through Waterfront Park, with its lovely views and fountain. Nearby, The Battery and White Point Garden offer a mix of grand, plantation-style mansions and historic cannons overlooking the harbour. For something unique, visit the Charleston Tea Garden, the only tea plantation in the USA, where you can tour the grounds and sample their locally grown tea.

As a coastal city, and in the heart of the Lowcountry, Charleston is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including salt marshes, barrier islands, and tidal creeks. A great way to explore the region’s beauty is through kayaking or boat tours that take you through scenic waters, including trips to barrier islands and salt marshes. On guided tours, you might even encounter dolphins, birds, and sea turtles.

Charleston’s food scene is another must-try with its unique blend of flavours.  Some local specialities to try, include the creamy shrimp and grits, crispy fried green tomatoes, the Lowcountry boil, and the rich she-crab soup.

If ready to explore the delights of the Deep South and immerse yourself in its music, culture, cuisine and breathtaking landscapes, simply get in touch with our expert team today to start planning your adventure. We’ll help you craft the perfect itinerary tailored to your interests, ensuring you experience the very best of this part of the world.