Savannah & Charleston

DAY 1 Louisville

Motor with fellow travelers to the much warmer, early spring of the south. We take a break for an included lunch at a southern-fare favorite just outside Chicago.
Our first overnight will be in Kentucky and the Drury Inn & Suites in Louisville.

DAY 2: Greenville

Travels continue through Tennessee and into the Appalachians as we inch our way further southeast. With our usual rest and meal breaks along the way, we rest our heads at a Drury Inn, in Greenville, SC.

DAY 3: Savannah

This morning, we cross into Georgia - the Peach State - and continue our journey toward the Atlantic coast. By early afternoon, we arrive in the heart of Savannah's Historic District, where cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and oak trees draped in Spanish moss set the scene for the next part of our adventure.
Our hotel for the next three nights offers comfortable accommodation just steps away from the city's vibrant shops, cafés, and cultural landmarks. After settling in, the remainder of the day and evening is yours to explore at your leisure. Whether you choose to take a leisurely walk through the city's iconic squares, visit a nearby attraction, or enjoy a meal at one of Savannah's many acclaimed restaurants, you'll find that charm and hospitality greet you around every corner.

DAY 4: Savannah

Today, get to know Savannah in the most entertaining way possible - with a narrated trolley tour through the city's historic streets. Hop aboard and let your friendly conductor bring the city to life with fascinating trivia, rich historical insights, and plenty of Southern charm. As the trolley winds through the city, you'll be treated to views of Savannah's extraordinary architecture, lush public gardens, and the enduring beauty that defines this coastal gem.
No visit to Savannah is complete without a stroll along world-famous River Street, where cobblestones meet the Savannah River. Lined with boutiques, galleries, and inviting cafés, this vibrant promenade is the perfect place to relax, shop, or simply take in the riverfront views.
This evening, we dine at the legendary Pirate's House, a historic inn that has welcomed guests since 1753. Once a popular haunt for seafarers and rumored pirates, the Pirate's House offers a hearty Southern meal served with a side of colorful stories from Savannah's maritime past.
After dinner, the night takes on a mysterious tone with an included ghost tour through the shadowy streets and haunted corners of Savannah. Led by a local guide, this eerie yet entertaining tour reveals chilling tales of restless spirits, historic tragedies, and unexplained happenings - an unforgettable experience in one of America's most haunted cities.

DAY 5: Charleston

We depart Savannah to journey south to Brunswick, Georgia, gateway to the picturesque Golden Isles. Upon arrival, we're joined by a local guide for a scenic and informative driving tour of the area's rich coastal heritage.

Our first stop is St. Simons Island, where moss-draped oaks line quiet streets and the past feels ever-present. We visit the serene grounds of Christ Church, originally established as a mission in 1736, nestled among ancient trees and weathered headstones.

Next, we travel to Jekyll Island, a former site of Spanish missions that later transformed into one of the most exclusive retreats in American history. During the open-air tram tour, we explore the island's elegant Historic District and get a glimpse of the once-private Millionaires Club, which hosted some of the most powerful names of the Gilded Age.

We end our day with an included dinner at a local eatery, enjoying Southern hospitality and regional flavors before returning to Savannah for a restful evening.

DAY 6: Charleston

This morning, we cross into the heart of Charleston, where we kick off our exploration with a Palmetto Carriage Tour through the charming streets of the historic district. As we clip-clop along cobblestone roads, our guide shares fascinating stories and insights about Charleston's rich history, from its colonial roots to its pivotal role in the Civil War. Next, we make our way to the iconic Old City Market, where the sights, sounds, and smells of Charleston come alive. Wander through this bustling marketplace, filled with local artisans, sweetgrass baskets, and Southern specialties. It's the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir or simply soak in the atmosphere of this centuries-old market. In the afternoon, we head to Patriots Point for a tour of Fort Sumter, the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. A ferry ride takes us across the harbor to the fort, where a local guide shares the history behind this important landmark. After a day of discovery, we check into our hotel in North Charleston, just a short distance from the city's main attractions. Later, we enjoy an included dinner in one of Charleston's renowned restaurants, savoring the flavors of Lowcountry cuisine. Tonight, rest up as we prepare for an exciting, action-packed day of Charleston exploration tomorrow.

DAY 7: Greenville

We hit the road again, heading to one of the South's most beautiful historic sites: Boone Hall Plantation. Here, we immerse ourselves in the history and beauty of this iconic plantation, known for its stunning avenues of oak trees and rich Southern heritage. As we tour the grounds, we'll learn about the life and legacy of the plantation and its role in American history.

A unique highlight of the visit is the Gullah Luncheon, where we enjoy a delicious meal featuring traditional Gullah cuisine, reflecting the culinary roots of the African American community in the Lowcountry. This flavorful and cultural experience adds another layer of richness to our day.
After a fulfilling visit, we begin our journey back to Greenville, South Carolina. Early this evening, we arrive at the Drury Inn Greenville, where we check in for a relaxing overnight stay. After settling in, you're free to unwind or explore Greenville's charming downtown area on your own.

DAY 8: Louisville

Before we depart Greenville, we take a moment to explore the beautiful Falls Park on the Reedy. Located in the historic West End of the city, this park is a peaceful oasis that once sat alongside the textile mills that defined the region's industrial past. Today, the park is a vibrant destination filled with lush green spaces, charming restaurants, and quaint shops. Be sure to take a stroll across the Liberty Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Reedy River Falls - an ideal spot for photos and to take in the beauty of this revitalized area.
After a leisurely morning, we continue our travels, heading northeast toward Louisville, Kentucky. This afternoon, we check back into the Drury Inn & Suites for our overnight stay.
After settling in, enjoy the evening at your leisure, perhaps visiting a local restaurant or relaxing at the hotel to reflect on the many memories made during this Southern adventure.

DAY 9: Home

Farewell for now, the final day of our wonderful Southern tour has arrived. We hope you've enjoyed every moment exploring the rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique charm of Savannah and Charleston, along with the beautiful destinations in between.
As we make our way home, we carry with us the memories of picturesque streets, delicious Southern cuisine, and unforgettable experiences shared with new friends. Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey through the heart of the South. We hope you'll take with you the stories, sights, and smiles from this unforgettable adventure.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D =Dinner