Toe-tapping rhythms, tastebud-tingling cuisine, and history-steeped towns that have shaped the entire course of the USA — there’s no doubt that the American South is a destination for culture lovers. Our specialists can help you experience it in your very own way, whether it’s an exclusive backstage tour of Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry or a hands-on cooking class in New Orleans where you’ll discover the secrets to a perfectly spiced gumbo.
They can also show you sides to the South that you might not have considered before, like its rich wilderness and wildlife. You might spot wild horses as you stroll along the dune meadows of the Georgia coast, go for a picnic in the forests of the Great Smoky Mountains on a privately guided hike, or take a canoe out onto the still Carolina marshlands as the sun begins to sink into the watery horizon.
Whether it’s music, food, or the great outdoors that brings you to the American South, our specialists can help you find meaningful experiences and stays that capture its true character, beyond what you might already know.
Trip ideas for exploring the American South
Our USA specialists have handcrafted the following trip ideas to stir your imagination. Each showcases how you could explore the American South with Audley. Though, when it comes to your own trip, your specialist will start from scratch, fine-tuning every detail until it speaks just to you.
Our best-loved stays in the American South
Mansions, marshes, and musical legacies — all our properties in the American South tell a story. Our specialists will help select the best ones to suit your tastes, interests, and budget.
-
Thompson Nashville
This luxury boutique hotel is in the most trendy district of Nashville and has a thoughtful design that evokes the city's creative and energetic spirit. The rooftop bar is also a highlight.
-
Bienville House
Bienville House enjoys a central location in the heart of New Orleans's French Quarter, with the city's many highlights, shops, jazz clubs, and restaurants just a short stroll away.
-
The Peabody
Elegant and charming, The Peabody is conveniently located in downtown Memphis, just blocks from attractions like Beale Street, the Memphis Rock & Soul Museum, Gibson Guitar Factory, the National Civil Rights Museum, and Sun Studios.
-
The Inn on Biltmore Estate
With the Blue Ridge Mountains as its backdrop, the Biltmore Estate has been home to the Vanderbilt dynasty, one of America's wealthiest and best-known socialite families, since 1895. It remains to this day America's largest home.
-
Oak Haven Resort and Spa
Just a short drive from Gatlinburg and the entrance to the scenic Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Oak Haven Resort & Spa is nestled in a beautiful, tranquil woodland mountain setting.
-
Montage Palmetto Bluff
Situated along the May River in South Carolina, Montage Palmetto Bluff is a laid-back, luxurious resort surrounded by a nature reserve. It offers a wealth of activities and delicious Southern cuisine.
More inspiration for your trip to the American South
We’ve created a wealth of guides and blogs to help spark inspiration for your trip to the American South. Discover more about the region’s best musical experiences, history-focused tours, and scenic road trips, expertly written by our specialists.
-
Luxury holidays in the American South Luxury holidays in the American South
Luxury holidays in the American South
Different to anywhere else in America, the American South offers a varied trip focused around music, food, history and a mix of cultures. Specialist Alice shares experiences that can uncover a little more of the region and elevate your trip.
Read this guide -
Exploring the American South: Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee Exploring the American South: Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee
Exploring the American South: Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee
Your guide to exploring the American South along the Mississippi River. Sample gumbo in New Orleans, examine the history of slavery at plantations, pay tribute to the King in Memphis and get a behind-the-scenes look at country music’s most storied stage.
Read this guide -
Exploring the American South: Georgia and the Carolinas Exploring the American South: Georgia and the Carolinas
Exploring the American South: Georgia and the Carolinas
There’s more to the American South than the food, music and culture of Louisiana and Tennessee. USA specialist Molly ventured farther east to the less-visited states of Georgia, and North and South Carolina. Here, you can balance historical cities with beach relaxation and mountain scenery.
Read this guide -
Music culture of the American South Music culture of the American South
Music culture of the American South
Jazz in New Orleans, soul in Memphis, and country in Nashville — USA specialist Carl takes you on a musical journey through the American South. En route, he delves into some of the best music tours and experiences you can enjoy during your own trip.
Read this guide -
A New Orleans food guide A New Orleans food guide
A New Orleans food guide
From a steaming bowl of belly-warming seafood gumbo to a creamy-sweet praline studded with pecans to a plate of oyster Rockefeller at Antoine’s — USA specialist Natalie introduces you to the distinctive culinary pleasures of New Orleans.
Read this guide
The American South in pictures