Musical Roots of the Deep South

About the destination: Found in the Lone Star State of Texas, Dallas is an important city in southern United States. Dallas is the ninth most populous city in the United States and the third most populous city in the state of Texas. One of the most famous landmarks of Dallas is the Reunion Tower. Visitors can even dine at a restaurant at the top of the tower. Home to museums and gardens, Fair Park is most famous for the amazing State Fair in the fall. Dallas’s Botanical Garden is a wonderful garden full of exotic and local flora. The best time to visit is, of course, during spring when thousands of flowers are blooming. The site of John F. Kennedy's assassination in 1963, Dealey Plaza, has become a national historic landmark and you can see the spot where the fatal shot hit the late president. Take a tour of America's most famous ranch. 40 km north of Dallas, we find Southfork Ranch, known worldwide as the filming location for the "Dallas" series. Dallas is a hub of business and commerce, as well as a bustling metropolis. With high-end shopping, museums and galleries, all in the presence of warm weather year-round, Dallas is one place you’re sure to be "Living Large."

About the destination: Austin, the Capital of the Lone Star State is cosmopolitan, quirky, laidback and has a small-town feel. Austin has it all, live music, cool people, great restaurants, beautiful nature and plenty of sunshine. Two notable attractions of the city are The Capitol Building and the University of Texas. Throughout the city you’ll find monuments of ranchers, prominent musicians, and Civil War heroes. Many of these monuments are located in Austin’s numerous parks, making it an excellent place to get in touch with nature. To experience just the right amount of “weird” that makes Austin unique, visit South Congress Avenue. “SoCo” is a veritable paradise anyone who loves of shopping, dining and live music. Whether you’re here for music, food, or to take in the local art scene, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in downtown Austin.

About the destination: San Antonio is the ultimate destination for family fun. You’ll find Texas-sized thrills with wild rides at our theme parks, amazing formations in a cavern and trail journeys on a dude ranch horse. Millions of people visit the River Walk each year to enjoy this unusual urban sanctuary that winds along the San Antonio River. Playtime in San Antonio means one thing: Texas-sized adventure! Whether you’re young or young at heart, big thrills await you at our world-class theme parks and water park resorts. SeaWorld® San Antonio and Six Flags® Fiesta Texas are great.

About the destination: Houston is the fourth most populous city in the United States of America, and the most populous city in the state of Texas. Houston is multicultural and vibrant, and diverse residential neighbourhoods and enclaves of restaurants and shops spread far and wide. The most important places to visit in Houston are: Beer Can House, Houston Galleria, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Space Center Houston, Discovery Green, Williams Waterwall and National Museum of Funeral History. Houston is a very modern, multi-cultural city, where there is always something going on. The Houston Theater District is one of the largest areas in the world for the performing arts, it's facilities comprising almost 15,000 seats .Houston offers excellent museums, beautiful parks, great skyscraper architecture and outstanding numerous restaurants.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of Cajun Country, Lafayette, Louisiana, offers a unique blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and unparalleled culinary delights. Known as the "Happiest City in America," Lafayette is a melting pot of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences, all of which are reflected in its eclectic music, dance, and cuisine. Whether you're strolling through the historic downtown district, savoring a bowl of authentic gumbo, or dancing the night away to the infectious rhythms of zydeco, Lafayette promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. One of Lafayette's crown jewels is its lively cultural scene. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the world-famous Festival International de Louisiane, a free, five-day music and arts festival that attracts performers and visitors from around the globe. For a more intimate cultural experience, visit Vermilionville, a living history museum and folklife park that offers a glimpse into the life of the Acadian, Creole, and Native American communities from the mid-18th to late-19th centuries. The Acadian Cultural Center is also a must-see, providing insightful exhibits and ranger-led programs that delve into the region's unique heritage. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love in and around Lafayette. The nearby Atchafalaya Basin, the largest wetland and swamp in the United States, offers opportunities for kayaking, bird watching, and guided swamp tours that allow you to get up close with the area's diverse wildlife. For a more tranquil escape, head to the beautiful gardens at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Bayou Teche. No matter your preference, Lafayette's natural landscapes provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and adventure alike. Of course, no trip to Lafayette would be complete without indulging in its gastronomic treasures. The city is renowned for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, with a plethora of restaurants offering mouth-watering dishes like boudin, crawfish étouffée, and po'boys. Don't miss the chance to dine at one of the local seafood joints, where you can savor freshly caught Gulf shrimp, oysters, and crab. For a truly immersive experience, consider joining a Cajun cooking class to learn the secrets behind these beloved dishes. In Lafayette, every meal is a celebration of the region's rich culinary traditions and warm hospitality.

About the destination: New Orleans is a major United States port and the largest city and metropolitan area in the state of Louisiana. New Orleans is located in the Mississippi River Delta on the east and west banks of the Mississippi River and south of Lake Pontchartrain. The area along the river is characterized by ridges and hollows. Saint Louis Cemeteries, historic cemeteries constructed in the 18th century, are one of the most important sight of the city. Located in iconic Jackson Square we find St. Louis Cathedral. This national historic monument is the oldest continually operating cathedral in the country. One of the most famous neighbourhoods of America is New Orleans’s French Quarter. Enjoy the historical architecture, jazz clubs and restaurants that are affluent in the area. The French Quarter is also the hotspot of Mardi Gras celebrations. Mardi Gras is the city’s impressive carnival. Millions take part in the carnival and enjoy its parades and balls. New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in the United States. Louisiana’s Cajun, creole and African-American cultures have had a significant impact on the architecture, art, and music of New Orleans.

About the destination: Natchez is the county seat and only city of Adams County, Mississippi, United States. Natchez has a total population of 15,792 (as of the 2010 census). Located on the Mississippi River across from Vidalia in Concordia Parish, Louisiana, Natchez is some 90 miles (140 km) southwest of Jackson, the capital of Mississippi, which is more in the center of the state. Because of the way the states are aligned, it is about 85 miles (137 km) north of Baton Rouge,[clarification needed] the capital of Louisiana, which is also located on the lower Mississippi River. Natchez is the 25th-largest city in the state. It is named for the Natchez tribe of Native Americans, who with their ancestors, inhabited much of the area since the 8th century CE and through the French colonial period

About the destination: Tupelo is a city in the US state of Mississippi and is Lee County's largest city. It is known as the city where the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley was born. If you're a fan of the singer, you can visit the Elvis Birthplace Museum, to know everything about him, including the house where he was born, to visit the church where he first sang gospel. The city is dumped where it was the best of all time and every year a festival held in his honor, where you can enjoy good music and a singing contest. For car lovers there is a great museum the Tupelo Automobile Museum where more than a hundred vintage cars. Nature lovers should visit the Natchez Trace Parkway, a park where you can peacefully enjoy while enjoying all nature in it. As for the nightlife there is enough room in the city. Some recommended bars are Spring Street Cigars or Lucky Joe's Bar & Grill, where there is usually enough room. Overall Tupelo is a very hospitable city and charisma.

About the destination: Memphis is a city that belongs to the US state of Tennessee, is also the county seat of Shelby. The city lies between the Wolf and Mississippi rivers. Memphis is definitely one of the most known and most popular cities in the United States. For those who love music, Memphis is a mandatory city because it is the birthplace of some styles of music like blues, soul and rock and roll. In the legendary Sun Records some privileged voices such as Elvis Presley, Roy Orbinson, Jerry Lee himself Lewys or Johnny Cash recorded some of their albums. A popular tourist attraction is visiting the home of Graceland, which belonged to the King of Rock Elvis Presley. It is the second most visited home across the United States and there are several guided tours. For those who love basketball, Memphis is also a suitable city as it has basketball team in the NBA, the Memphis Grizzlies, and you can watch their games or make a tour in their stadium FedExForum with has a capacity for 18,119 people. But besides all this, in Memphis there are plenty of activities to do. Lovers of culture and art can visit museums such as the National Civil Rights Museum, where you can learn the history of this city and the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art where there are greatexhibitions every day. Memphis is also known for its good climate and its gastronomy, do not forget to try the barbecue ribs. Finally, it has a very raucous nightlife and is full of bars and pubs as the BB King's Blues Club.

About the destination: Florence is the largest city in Lauderdale County, Alabama with a fantastic small town flavor. Packed with attractions and activities for all tastes, Florence offers traditional Southern living at its best. Explore charming historic districts, world-renowned architectural wonders, beautiful natural scenery, world-class fishing, golf, and award-winning cuisine.

About the destination: Nashville is a city that belongs to the US state of Tennessee and is the administrative seat of Davidson County. This city is known worldwide as the "City of Music" because there is a big music industry, particularly in country music. If you love music you cannot forget to visit the great Grand Ole Opry is a perfectly designed theater where there are concerts every day. Here they have past stars like Dolly Parton. Furthermore it is known as "The Athens of the South", with its neoclassical architecture and its educational facilities. It is a city with a lively music scene. If you like culture, visit museums such as the Tennessee State Museum where you learn can learn all the story about this town or the Adventure Science Center, where you'll find everything about science. If you like natural parks and nature do not forget to visit the Opryland Hotel Gardens, a huge garden with all kinds of vegetation and which a river passes through, all within a glass dome. As for nightlife, Nashville is a lively city where there are many places to have fun and have a good time at night such as The Big Bang Dueling Pianos bar with a great music atmosphere or the Robert's Western World, a pub with western atmosphere. Undoubtedly, Nashville is the ideal city to come visit family and to have a great experience.

About the destination: Gatlinburg is a city located in Sevier County in the US state of Tennessee. Every year, eight to ten million people visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And for good reason. You’ll find lots to do and see at this sprawling National Park, and the vista is definitely more than enough to keep anybody coming back. The wealth of flora found at the park is unmatched. The park’s grounds bloom with over 1,660 kinds of flowering plants and wildflowers all-year-round. You can even take wildflower walks to view the many flower species found in the park. Fauna at the National Park is equally abundant. Visitors can expect to spot a wide variety of birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles. The National Park is also the largest protected bear habitat in the East. Gatlinburg is definitely an ideal vacation destination for nature lovers. To fully experience everything the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer, you can opt to literally take a hike with the expert guides of A Walk in the Woods. A Walk in the Woods offers nature entt dhusiasts a wide variety of guided hikes and backpacking trips on the trails at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For this and a lot more reasons Gatlingburg it is an amazing place to visit and to enjoy.

About the destination: Atlanta is the capital of and the most populous city in the state of Georgia and is, today, a national centre of commerce. Situated among the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Atlanta has the highest elevation out of major cities east of the Mississippi River. An Atlanta tour must include the Atlanta History Center. Learn about the city’s roots and its role in the Civil War. Atlanta is the major setting for Margaret Mitchell’s novel “Gone With the Wind,” and you can learn about the author and the book at the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum. Stop by the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site which includes this inspiring leader’s birthplace home, his final resting place, the church where he once gave sermons, as well as a museum and memorial. From there, your Atlanta sightseeing should continue at the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, the Centennial Olympic Park, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History and the Stone Mountain Park. On the outskirts of the city we have the beautiful Stone Mountain Park. If you take the Summit Skyride, you’ll get an outstanding view of the city.Atlanta is the flagship for the New South, a sprawling city with trendy bars, top-notch restaurants and high end boutiques, but all adorned with Southern charm. Atlanta has a very modern skyline but is intrinsically proud of its heritage.