Southeast States - NYC to New Orleans

Itinerary

Day 1 New York City, New York to Washington, District of Colombia.

Our Topdeck Southeast States trip begins this morning as we depart from the ‘Big Apple’, New York! If you’d like to explore NYC before your trip begins, you can book some pre-trip accommodation with Topdeck in order to see Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty and many more amazing sights.

Today we head to the nation’s capital, Washington DC, but en route we make a quick stop in Philadelphia. ‘Philly’ was once the capital of the US and centre of colonial history, and we have time to check out popular attractions such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Philadelphia is also famous for being the home of Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky, and for the incredibly popular local food, delicious Philly Cheesesteak – why not try one while we’re here!

After moving on to Washington we’ll enjoy an included night time guided tour of the illuminated Washington monuments this evening, a memorable ‘Totally Topdeck’ experience and the perfect introduction to this historic and influential city. (D)

 

Day 2 Washington DC.

We have a full day in ‘DC’ (as it’s referred to locally) to see the sights. The majority of the city’s most famous monuments are centred on the National Mall, home to the US Capitol Building, Reflecting Pool and several War Memorials. Most structures here have strong links to America’s past – for instance the towering Washington Monument and the austere Lincoln Memorial were constructed in honour of two of the most famous US Presidents; George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

The city is also home to several world famous museums such as the Natural History Museum, Art and Science Museum and the Holocaust Museum, and we have the option to visit these to soak up some culture and knowledge. Later in the evening we can check out the Georgetown area, full of fantastic restaurants and also considered the best place for nightlife.

 

Day 3 Washington DC to Appalachian Mountains, Virginia.

Today our American road trip comes in to its own as we enjoy a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park. This picturesque corner of America has long enchanted artists, musicians, poets and writers, not least the celebrated travel author Bill Bryson who was particularly fond of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

We’re heading to the striking Appalachian Mountains in Virginia, a range that was once the size of the Alps and Rockies before it was eroded by time. In season we may have the chance to try out some optional white-water rafting here – adrenalin-fuelled and exhilarating!

 

Day 4 Appalachian Mountains to Nashville, Tennessee.

We drive west to Tennessee and an overnight stop in Nashville, known as ‘Music City’ and the home of Country music. Here we can take an optional visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame, and later in the evening it’s a treat to visit one of Nashville's famous Honky Tonk bars to see some country music played live. (B,D)

Day 5 Nashville to Memphis, Tennessee.

From one musical city to another – slip on your Blue Suede Shoes because today we’re off to Memphis, home of the Delta Blues and a certain Elvis Presley! Memphis can boast a fantastic musical heritage and Elvis fans from across the globe have made the pilgrimage here to pay tribute to the ‘King’. This evening famous Beale St. beckons, a lively centre of nightlife and great blues music. (B,D)

 

Day 6 Memphis, Tennessee.

Today we have a full day to see the best that Memphis has to offer. We even have an included visit to Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley – an amazing ‘Totally Topdeck’ experience. In the mansion you’ll see where Elvis and his family lived, relaxed and spent time with friends, while there is also a 14 acre estate complete with Trophy Hall, racquetball court and meditation garden.

During our time in Memphis we can also visit Sun Studios where many of the earliest Rock ‘n’ Roll hits were recorded. You’ll be a regular Hound Dog by the time we leave! (B)

 

Day 7 Memphis to New Orleans, Louisiana.

From the Blues to the Bayou - the final day of our Topdeck North American trip sees us drive from Memphis to the state of Louisiana and soulful New Orleans, where our memorable journey comes to an end upon arrival in the city.

You’re welcome to book some post-trip accommodation in New Orleans with Topdeck, which will give you chance to enjoy some of the best nightlife, restaurants, seafood and good ol’ Southern hospitality it’s possible to find anywhere in the US. There’s no doubt that ‘The Big Easy’ is a fantastic place in which to say our goodbyes to Topdeck crew and travel buddies. (B)

 

NOTE: The Southeast States trip operates as a sector of Topdeck’s 20 Day Coast to Coast trip, so please be aware that other members of the group will be continuing their trip beyond New Orleans.