Music Cities River Cruise, October 6-16, 2027, with Michael & Jennifer Keenan of Keenan Winery

Day 1: Wednesday, October 6

ARRIVAL TO MEMPHIS

Upon arrival at Memphis International Airport (code: MEM) guests of Keenan Winery will be met and transferred to “South’s Grand Hotel” The Peabody, a legendary landmark that has defined Southern hospitality since 1869. This evening we take a 6-minute stroll from the hotel to enjoy a Welcome Dinner at The Majestic Grille, located in the historic 1913 Majestic No. 1 Theatre and honors the location’s history by playing silent films and featuring stills from original pictures in the dining area. (D)

OVERNIGHT: The Peabody Hotel (3 Nights)

KEY FOR INCLUDED MEALS: B = Breakfast   /   L = Lunch   /   D = Dinner

Day 2: Thursday, October 7

MEMPHIS / GRACELAND TOUR

After breakfast, we take a short pilgrimage to Graceland for a guided tour of Elvis Presley’s legendary home, a quintessential piece of American pop culture history. Enjoy the Elvis Presley’s Memphis Museum, and a “Show ‘n’ Tell” tour through the archives with an archival expert as our guide. This immersive tour offers an intimate look into the King’s personal life, from the famous Jungle Room to his extensive collection of gold records and iconic jumpsuits. Revel in special access and exclusive photos! Lunch will be served at Vernon’s Smokehouse. This evening is at leisure upon return to the hotel. (B,L)

Day 3: Friday, October 8

MEMPHIS CITY TOUR / BBQ DINNER

Following breakfast at the hotel, we have a full day ahead with a Memphis City Tour. Enjoy an exciting ride through Memphis with a professional musician as your guide. Sing along as you visit music-related landmarks like Beale Street and Stax Studio, with a tour at Sun Studio. See the homes where B.B. King and Elvis lived in their early years. Learn the history of the Lorraine Hotel and Overton Park. Lunch is at leisure. Upon return to our hotel, we take a 2-minute stroll for a group dinner at Charlie Vergos’ The Rendezvous Restaurant, a world-famous institution for Memphis BBQ! (B,D)

Day 4: Saturday, October 9

MEMPHIS / EMBARK AMERICAN SYMPHONY

After breakfast at the hotel & check-out, we transfer to our ship where we board the vessel, American Symphony for check-in, followed by welcome cocktails and lunch. Onboard, let the energetic performances of local musicians become the background music for your afternoon as you cruise down the iconic Mississippi. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 7 nights aboard the ship AMERICAN SYMPHONY

Day 5: Sunday, October 10

OHIO RIVER CRUISE DAY / PADUCAH

Relax while taking in the sights and sounds along two of America’s great rivers, the Mississippi & Ohio, as we cruise from Memphis to Paducah, Kentucky. Experience the breathtaking scene where the Ohio River flows into the vast Mississippi, a striking display of nature’s power. We arrive late-night to dock in the quaint town of Paducah. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Monday, October 11

PADUCAH, KENTUCKY

Following breakfast, we have a full day to explore the charming city of Paducah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known as a “Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art”. Visit the many museums and shops downtown and stop at the riverfront to view the murals that tell the story of Paducah’s past. Explore the interactive Paducah Railroad Museum showcasing equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads or immerse yourself in the interactive exhibits and state-of-the-art boat simulator at the Inland Waterways Museum where you are the captain. Visit The National Quilt Museum and view exhibits by renowned quilters who are implementing creative ideas and approaches to fiber art, then explore the 25 sq. block neighborhood on the National Register of Historic Places along the Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood. (B,L,D)

NOTE: Please see the ship’s Cruise Director for several optional shore excursions at various price points.

Day 7: Tuesday, October 12

SYMPHONY CRUISE / DOVER TENNESSEE

We depart just after midnight to cruise along the Cumberland River. Wake up to the breathtaking views of this landscape of craggy limestone cliffs. At midday the ship arrives in Dover (pop. 1,826) where we explore Fort Donelson National Battlefield. Fort Donelson, once referred to as the Gateway to the Confederate Heartland, is the site of an important Civil War battle, fought on land and water. View the Surrender Site, National Cemetery, and learn about the military park and its history. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Wednesday, October 13

DOVER / CLARKSVILLE TENNESSEE

Cruise this morning from Dover to Clarksville, where we arrive midday. Clarksville has a rich musical history, from past-resident country music icon Roy Acuff to rock legend Jimi Hendrix, the latter being stationed at nearby U.S. Army base at Fort Campbell. Explore the local restaurants and sites nearby including one of Clarksville’s most scenic developed trails, the Cumberland Riverwalk, which follows the Cumberland River. Visit McGregor Park’s As the River Flows Museum featuring 12 graphic panels that illustrate the history of the Cumberland River and its significance to Clarksville’s development from that vantage point. (B,L,D)

Day 9: Thursday, October 14

CLARKSVILLE / NASHVILLE

After spending the morning in Clarksville, we cruise this afternoon and evening to Nashville, arriving after dinner. Nashville is the home of American Country Music, including the iconic Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Friday, October 15

NASHVILLE

After breakfast explore Nashville, affectionately known as “Music City”. There is an astounding level of high-level musical talent here, on full display in most taverns and bars around town. Take the time to listen and see for yourself. We’ll tour the Country Music Hall of Fame, seeing the museum’s many collections and exhibits. Learn the history of country music and its influence on American culture. Tonight experience a live country music show at the legendary Grand Ole Opry. (B,L,D)

Day 11: Saturday, October 16

DISEMBARKATION

Disembark ship and prepare for your flight home. (B)

Day 1: Saturday, October 16

DISEMBARK / NASHVILLE / JACK DANIEL DISTILLERY TOUR

Following breakfast, disembark the American Symphony and travel on a scenic journey through the rolling Tennessee hills on the way to historic Lynchburg for a day steeped in Southern tradition. The experience begins with a legendary family-style lunch at Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House, followed by leisure time to explore the charming boutiques of the town square. The highlight of the afternoon is a tour and tasting at the Jack Daniel Distillery, where attendees will learn the craft of Tennessee Whiskey before returning to Nashville. This afternoon return to Nashville to the Hotel Noelle for check-in. This evening is at leisure. (B,L)

OVERNIGHT: Hotel Noelle (2 Nights)

Day 2: Sunday, October 17

NASHVILLE / JOHNNY CASH MUSEUM 

After breakfast we dedicate time to the ‘Man in Black’ at the Johnny Cash Museum featuring the largest collection of Johnny Cash memorabilia in existence. Using interactive technology and rare artifacts, this world-class museum brings his story to life. This afternoon is at leisure to explore Nashville’s riverfront restaurants, shops & attractions. We say goodbye to Nashville at The Southern Steak & Oyster where we enjoy our Farewell Dinner. (B,D)

Day 3: Monday, October 18

DEPART NASHVILLE

After breakfast and check-out at the hotel we transfer to Nashville International Airport (code: BNA) for onward flights. (B)