Itinerary Details
Spirits, Saddles & Songs: Journey Through Kentucky & Tennessee
Day 1: LOUISVILLE Welcome to Derby City! At 6:00 p.m., meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The Brown Hotel in Louisville is a historic landmark known for its timeless elegance, Southern hospitality, and rich history dating back to 1923. Famous for the grand lobby and classic architecture, it has long been a gathering place for celebrities, politicians, and travelers. The hotel is also the birthplace of the iconic Hot Brown sandwich, an open-faced sandwich with toasted bread, sliced roast turkey, and crispy bacon, all generously smothered in a rich, bubbling Mornay cheese sauce then baked. It was originally designed as a glamorous, late-night alternative to traditional ham-and-eggs for the hotel's midnight dance crowds.
Day 2: LOUISVILLEBat and Barrel Begin your morning with a moving, guided journey through the Muhammad Ali Center. Then step back in time on a captivating city tour as a local guide brings Louisville's glamorous Great Gatsby era to life. Explore the vibrant Village Market food hall for lunch, a bustling culinary hotspot packed with local flavors. After lunch, experience an American treasure at the world-famous Louisville Slugger Museum. Tonight, cap off an unforgettable day with an exclusive dinner and bourbon tasting, where you will step into the role of master distiller to blend and bottle your very own signature spirit. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville is an inspiring cultural and educational space dedicated to the life and legacy of the boxing legend. Through interactive exhibits, personal artifacts, and powerful storytelling, it highlights his achievements both in and out of the ring, including his advocacy for peace, civil rights, and humanitarian work. More than a museum, it invites visitors to reflect on Ali’s core values of confidence, conviction, and respect.
Day 3: LOUISVILLE–FRANKFORT–GEORGETOWN–LEXINGTONNeat and Nimble Off to the races this morning for breakfast on the backside of the track at Churchill Downs. Enjoy a unique small group exclusive excursion to watch thoroughbreds during their morning workouts followed by a visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum to explore the history and rich traditions of America's most famous horse race. Depart Louisville for greener pastures, starting with a visit to Georgetown. Enjoy free time for lunch and experience the walkable Victorian-era downtown district with brick buildings, shops, and restaurants. Continue to the countryside for a private tour of [LF] Old Friends Equine and meet retired champion racehorses. The day concludes in Lexington with free time to explore the “Horse Capital of the World” for dinner at your own pace. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE
Old Friends Equine Farm in Georgetown, KY is a nonprofit retirement sanctuary for Thoroughbred racehorses. Since 2003, they have provided lifelong care and a peaceful home for horses after their racing and breeding careers end. They play an important role in promoting horse welfare and aftercare, ensuring these retired athletes are respected and cared for during the rest of their lives in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass country.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The Campbell House Lexington is a historic, equestrian-themed boutique hotel. Originally built in 1951, the property blends classic Southern charm with modern amenities, featuring horse-inspired decor and the Rackhouse Tavern, which boasts over 300 bourbons. Step back into a golden era of hospitality, where decades of rich history and timeless Southern luxury seamlessly unite to offer an unforgettable boutique experience.
Day 4: LEXINGTON–BARDSTOWN–NASHVILLE, TENNESSEESouthern Soul Explore the rolling bluegrass hills of Lexington during a private tour of the Kentucky Horse Park and visit the International Museum of the Horse for an in-depth look at the history, heritage, and impact of horses around the world. Continue to Bardstown for lunch on your own and free time to explore the shops, historic streets, and local highlights. The journey continues to Nashville. Enjoy an evening at leisure to savor local cuisine, experience the city's renowned music scene, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Music City. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Set on over 1,200 acres of rolling bluegrass, the Kentucky Horse Park is both a working horse farm and an educational park where you can see multiple horse breeds, watch live demonstrations, and explore the International Museum of the Horse. With up-close encounters and scenic grounds, it offers a unique glimpse into why Lexington is truly the Horse Capital of the World.
ENHANCED FREE TIME
Explore more in Nashville for savory local cuisine, vibrant street murals and plenty of opportunities for live music. From honky-tonks to hidden cocktail bars and quiet riverside strolls, every corner offers a new discovery.
Day 5: NASHVILLERhythm and Roots Discover the heart and soul of Nashville during a guided city tour featuring the city's most iconic landmarks, legendary music venues, and historic neighborhoods. Continue to the acclaimed Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where captivating exhibits celebrate the artists and stories that shape country music. Explore more on an exclusive tour of [LF] Hatch Show Print for a behind-the-scenes look at one of America's oldest working letterpress print shops, renowned for creating posters for generations of music legends. For lunch, experience Nashville cuisine, culture, and local flavors at Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint, where award-winning barbecue and Southern hospitality provide the perfect taste of Music City. Enjoy reserved seats for an unforgettable show at the Grand Ole Opry and go behind the curtain for a backstage tour to see the dressing rooms, hear stories of music legends, and even stand in the famous circle on stage where countless stars have performed. (B,L)
LOCAL FAVORITE
Hatch Show Print in Nashville is a historic letterpress print shop known for its bold, colorful posters that helped define the look of American music advertising. Since 1879, Hatch has created iconic posters and prints for legends like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and Patsy Cline, capturing the spirit of Nashville’s music history in bold, timeless designs. Explore the shop, watch traditional printing in action, and experience a timeless piece of Nashville’s creative heritage.
Day 6: NASHVILLESong of the South Begin the day with an inspiring and meaningful experience featuring a special presentation and hands-on activity with [LF] Strings for Hope, a Nashville-based organization that transforms donated guitar strings into beautiful jewelry while creating opportunities for women overcoming addiction and hardship. This unique experience offers a deeper connection to the city's spirit of creativity, resilience, and community. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure in Nashville. Explore the boutiques and galleries of downtown, discover live music around every corner, relax at a local café, or simply soak in the energy and charm that make Music City one of the South's most beloved destinations. The journey concludes with a special farewell dinner to toast to the Kentucky and Tennessee adventure and enjoy regional Southern specialties. (B,D)
LOCAL FAVORITE
In a city built on music, Strings for Hope gives every string a second life. By transforming donated instrument strings into beautiful handcrafted jewelry, the organization empowers survivors with meaningful work, dignity, and hope—proving that even what seems worn out can become something extraordinary. Inspired by Nashville's creative spirit, every piece tells a story of resilience and renewal.
Day 7: NASHVILLESafe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Want to explore more in Nashville? Additional nights are available for purchase. (B)
