City-Hopping Around the United States: Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans, Done Differently

Going hand in hand with the music culture is a thriving bar scene. Experience it on an evening pub crawl that stops off at locations such as the various honky-tonk bars on Broadway and Alley Taps gin mill in Printers Alley. Be sure to try the Ole Smoky Moonshine, along with other local brews and cocktails.

Hot chicken, barbecue, fried pickles, sweet potato fries, cornbread – the list of culinary specialities in Nashville goes on. Tuck into these on a guided walking food tour, which takes you to landmarks such as Broadway and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Inspired by Nashville’s love for music, Music City Hostel is a bohemian no-frills hostel that draws backpacking musicians and songwriters from around the globe. It’s a cozy and welcoming set-up with a barbecue grill, community garden (where jam sessions are a fixture) and dorms and private rooms that house 30 guests.

Explore the Memphis music scene at your own pace on a self-guided tour to Stax Records, Sun Studio and the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Live commentary and round-trip transportation will take you back through time, as you trace the footsteps of legends such as Elvis, Johnny Cash and Tina Turner.

Hours can be spent getting lost in the history of Memphis. This tour sheds light on the city’s past, including its part in both the American Civil War and Prohibition. Lasting two hours, the tour also takes in architectural highlights such as the Lincoln American Tower, Calvary Episcopal Church and Court Square Fountain.

With thoughtfully designed furnishings (geometric patterns and bold use of color), modern event spaces and three restaurants, Hu Hotel sets a new standard for Southern hospitality. It is named for Hugh “Hu” Lawson White Brinkley, who put Memphis on the map as a shipping hub in the 19th century.

Founded in 1718, the French Quarter (Vieux Carré) is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. Join this small tour to uncover the eclectic architecture and landmarks here such as the St Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square and the French Market. Expect jazz and dive bars on every corner, and streets full of artists and musicians.

Ace Hotel sits at the heart of the up-and-coming Warehouse District, where coffee shops and boutiques take up residence in converted brick warehouses. Close to art galleries, museums and the French Quarter, this boutique hotel is in a great location. Highlights include acoustic guitars and turntables in every room, as well as a rooftop pool.