Nashville, Memphis & the Cumberland

Uncover the rhythm and charm of Music City during a panoramic journey through Nashville. Embark on a scenic drive into the heart of the city to view its most cherished landmarks. Begin in the historic downtown district and immerse yourself in the lively energy of Broadway Street, with its neon lights, honky-tonk bars and the sounds of country music. Pass the Ryman Auditorium, also known as “The Mother Church of Country Music,” and drive along Music Row, where famous artists such as Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton spent time recording. See the stately Tennessee State Capitol, set atop Capitol Hill, and pause to take photos of the city’s skyline. Stop at the Parthenon in Centennial Park, a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple in Athens. Explore the gardens, visit the on-site art museum and view the statue of Athena before returning to your ship.

Honor the heroes of country music at Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Discover its impressive collection of more than 2.5 million artifacts, which include Hank Williams’s iconic guitar and Elvis Presley’s custom Cadillac, as well as the clothing and instruments of modern country stars such as Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire and Kacey Musgraves. During your tour, you will also have the opportunity to experience original recordings and archival films. Originally launched in 1967 on Nashville’s Music Row, the Museum opened its current downtown location in 2001. While exploring its many exhibits, admire the Museum’s unique design that incorporates elements from country music's past and present.

Explore the Ryman Auditorium where countless artists performed and earned their fame. Known as the “Carnegie of the South” in the 1920s, the Ryman Auditorium was where the Grand Ole Opry was once recorded between 1943 and 1974. Take a moment to immerse yourself in the Ryman’s history through a captivating video of holograms, archival footage and special effects. While on your tour, experience the spotlight of the stage and stand where legends, including Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Minnie Pearl, Katharine Hepburn, Bob Hope, Mae West and Harry Houdini, once performed.

See behind the curtain of one of America's most iconic music venues and discover its rich history. Drive to the Grand Ole Opry House and enter the Circle Room Theater for a presentation on the history, legacy and cultural significance of the Grand Ole Opry House. From here, you will enjoy a backstage tour to view artist-only areas, including the hallways, performer gathering spaces and the uniquely themed dressing rooms used by the stars. Along the way, view memorabilia, artifacts and photographs, and take the opportunity to step out onto the stage and into its legendary wooden circle. You will also learn about the musicians, announcers, producers and staff members who have helped to sustain the cultural heritage of this iconic venue of American country music. After, you will enjoy time to browse the gift shop before returning to your ship.

Visit the institutions that helped build country music during a Privileged Access tour of two country music icons. Drive to the Grand Ole Opry House and sit back to enjoy a multimedia presentation that introduces the history, traditions and legacy of this legendary venue. Head behind the scenes for backstage access to the hallways, corridors and themed dressing rooms used by the stars and musicians of American country music. Step into areas reserved for performers, used before they enter the stage, and browse the giftshop. Continue to the nearby Opry Plaza, home to WSM Radio—the station that has broadcast the Grand Ole Opry since 1925. Today, it remains one of the most influential voices of country music, connecting artists to new audiences. Enjoy a VIP tour, led by a radio station representative to view vintage equipment, historic artifacts and more, before returning to your ship.