East Coast Blues Tour

When all tour participants have arrived, we meet for a welcome greeting and refreshment, with introductions. The evening’s program is getting to know each other and we eat dinner together in true American style. Those who are not tired after the long journey may go to a local bar nearby.

(Driving day 1: 192 km/120 miles)

Commence the day with an informative session, delving into the details of your East Coast & Blue Ridge Parkway adventure during our orientation meeting. Covering essential information about the tour, we also provide practical insights and preparations for the motorcycle and car rental checkout at Explorify Motorcycle Rentals, where your meticulously prepared bike awaits. Following this, we proceed to collect our bikes or cars.

With everyone geared up on their respective rides, we kick off our exhilarating journey on the 4,200 km/2,600 miles long East Coast & Blue Ridge Parkway Adventure Tour. Bid farewell to Orlando, charting a westward course that unfolds along the picturesque shores of Lake Apopka. Our initial route takes us to the world-renowned Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, offering a firsthand glimpse into the intriguing origins and evolution of drag racing. A delightful lunch awaits, setting the stage for a scenic drive along Florida’s west coast, culminating in our final destination, the charming town of Homosassa.

(Driving day 2: 550 km/343  miles)

Embark on a breathtaking journey today as we traverse the stunning Florida coast and its pristine beaches. Our adventure kicks off with a scenic drive through the majestic Apalachicola National Forest, setting the stage for the awe-inspiring sights along Cape San Blas. As we continue our ride, be prepared to be captivated by the beauty of the Mexico and Panama City beaches, each offering its own unique charm.

Our route culminates in the vibrant destination of Destin, where we’ll indulge in the serenity of a delightful evening on the pier. Join us for a memorable experience as we soak in the coastal splendor and create lasting memories against the backdrop of this picturesque seaside haven.

(Driving day 3: 433 km/268  miles)

Embark on the next leg of our journey, tracing the enchanting Gulf shores along the Mexican Gulf, weaving through the diverse landscapes of Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida. Our route unfolds, revealing charming harbors, picturesque bridges, and captivating sumps in Moss Point, Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis.

As we continue our scenic coastal ride, the path leads us to the mythical city of New Orleans. Check-in awaits at our hotel in the iconic French Quarter. Once everyone has settled into their rooms, we convene for a delightful dinner on the renowned Bourbon Street, immersing ourselves in the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The evening unfolds in true Crescent City style, promising an authentic experience in one of the most exciting and lively cities in the United States.

(Fun and explorer day)

Today, we will explore New Orleans, a city renowned as one of the world’s most captivating and unique destinations. Boasting a rich tapestry of history and influences from Europe, the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond, New Orleans stands as a brilliant mosaic of culture, food, and music.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this extraordinary city, where the air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of “gumbo” and the nights are adorned with the soulful rhythms of jazz and blues clubs. Wander through historical suburbs that echo with stories of the past, and discover a place where festivals pulse throughout the year, creating an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. In New Orleans, every moment is an invitation to indulge in the diverse and dynamic essence of this extraordinary cultural hub.

(Driving day 4: 389 km/243 miles)

As we journey northward along the iconic Hwy 61, also known as the Blues Route, our destination is Baton Rouge, with a captivating stop in the historic city of Vicksburg—the final highlight of our day. Vicksburg, a pivotal locale in the American Civil War, witnessed the convergence of General Grant and Lee in a legendary battle during the war’s closing chapters.

Our exploration begins at the National Monument and Old Courthouse, where echoes of historical significance resonate. The rush of history surrounds us as we delve into the remnants of the past. A visit to the Coca-Cola Museum adds a refreshing note to our itinerary, as Vicksburg proudly claims its position as the birthplace of the renowned beverage. It was within the walls of the Bierdenharn Candy Co. that the first bottle of Coca-Cola was crafted.

As night falls, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant rhythm of Vicksburg’s blues scene. Our evening unfolds in one of the city’s lively blues clubs, promising a delightful blend of music, history, and culture.

(Driving day 5: 357 km/223 miles)

Our Blues & Music tour kicks off with a northward journey on Highway 61. Our destination is the renowned “Gateway to the Blues” in Tunica, where we make a noteworthy stop at the Blues visitor center and museum. A significant pause occurs at “The Crossroads,” the juncture where Hwy 61 and Hwy 49 intersect, symbolizing Robert Johnson’s iconic 1936 blues composition. Johnson, recognized as the “Father of The Blues,” delivered this solo acoustic guitar performance in the distinctive Delta blues style. The song has woven itself into the fabric of Johnson’s mythology, depicting the crossroads where, according to legend, he exchanged his soul with the devil to achieve unparalleled mastery in playing the blues. This evocative melody has been immortalized in recordings by Elmore James and Eric Clapton.

Notably, Hwy 61, known as The Blues Route, attained additional renown through Bob Dylan’s album “Highway 61 Revisited.” As we traverse this historic route, we follow the musical footprints left by legends, paying homage to the profound impact of the blues and the enduring legacy etched along the highway’s storied path.

(Driving day 6: 396 km/248 miles)

Welcome to one of the tour’s absolute highlights! Our destination is Graceland, the iconic home of the legendary King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Aaron Presley. Serving as Elvis’s primary residence from 1958 until his passing in 1977, Graceland holds a significant place in musical history. It was within these walls that Elvis was discovered lifeless in the bath by his fiancée, Ginger Alden, on the afternoon of August 16, 1977. Today, Graceland opens its doors to the public, drawing thousands on pilgrimage each year to witness how “The King” lived. Visitors also pay their respects at his gravesite in the expansive park at Graceland, where Elvis rests alongside his parents and one of his grandmothers.

Our morning is dedicated to immersing ourselves in the life and artistry of this remarkable man. By the end of our visit, any lingering doubts will dissipate: “The King still lives.”

Filled with profound impressions from Graceland, our journey continues to another trendsetting music hub, Nashville, often referred to as “Music City.” Here, we spend the evening exploring the renowned “Music Drive,” soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this musical mecca.

(Fun and explorer day)

An entire day tailored for music enthusiasts awaits. Feel free to shape your day according to your preferences—whether it’s leisurely strolling through the vibrant streets of Nashville, immersing yourself in the music venues along Music Drive, exploring the local Harley Davidson store, or delving into the captivating music history embedded in this dynamic city.

For those keen on a curated experience, our day kicks off with a visit to the renowned “Country Music Hall of Fame” and “RCA Studio B,” the very studio where Elvis Presley crafted numerous iconic recordings. Following this, we delve into the fascinating “Johnny Cash Museum,” a captivating tribute to the legendary Man in Black. After an insightful day of exploration, we return to the hotel for a brief respite before indulging in another lively evening along the music-infused streets of Music Drive.

(Driving day 7: 386 km/241 miles)

Departing Nashville with a trove of delightful memories, our journey now leads us to the renowned Great Smoky Mountains National Park, hailed as the most visited national park in the U.S. Brace yourself for an exhilarating ride along some of the most exceptional motorcycle roads you’ll ever traverse. The day unfolds as we navigate winding, picturesque roads and conquer the awe-inspiring Devil’s Triangle.

As the sun begins to set, our destination is Sevierville, where we anticipate a cozy evening, setting the stage for the remarkable adventure that lies ahead.

(Driving day 8: 339 km/210 miles)

Get ready for a day destined to become a lifetime memory! Today, we embark on an adventure along some of the most extraordinary motorcycle routes, not just in the U.S. but globally. Our journey includes the famed US 129, known as the “Tail of The Dragon” (ranking as the #3 best motorcycle road in the U.S.), and the breathtaking “Cherohala Skyway” (ranked #7). The best part? You have the freedom to choose which one you’d like to ride twice. We prioritize a leisurely pace, allowing everyone to savor the ride, take in the awe-inspiring scenery, and ensure the safety of all participants.

It’s essential to note that the “Tail of the Dragon” is known for a higher frequency of motorcycle accidents, so we urge everyone to exercise caution on these challenging roads. Nevertheless, relish the road, absorb the electric atmosphere, and revel in the experience.

For those who prefer a more relaxed day, Sevierville offers the option to unwind by the pool or indulge in some shopping at the nearby Tanger Outlet, conveniently located just across the street from the hotel.

(Driving day 9:323 km/202 miles)

Welcome to a day destined to be etched in the annals of our journey! Today, we embark on a full-day adventure traversing the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Parkway, revered as the #2 best motorcycle road in the U.S. Describing the beauty of this ride falls short—it’s an experience that must be lived.

Our day commences with a visit to the “Wheels Through Time” museum, home to the world’s premier collection of rare American motorcycles, memorabilia, and a unique array of one-of-a-kind American automobiles. Immerse yourself in the rich history and craftsmanship that has shaped the evolution of these incredible machines.

As the sun begins to set, our destination is the quaint European-inspired mountain town of Little Switzerland. Here, we relish in the breathtaking views, rounding off a day filled with scenic wonders and the rich tapestry of motorcycle history.

(Driving day 10: 303 km/309 miles)

Our day kicks off with an exhilarating journey along “The Diamondback” (Hwy 226A), promising another thrilling ride. Following the adventure, we chart our course towards Savannah and the captivating Florida coast. En route, we carve out time for a stop that holds a touch of Europe, as we visit charming spots in Norway and Denmark.

(Driving day 11: 303 km/188 miles)

Our journey takes a southern turn, leading us to the inviting warmth of Florida’s beaches. Prior to our arrival in St. Augustine, we embark on a drive along the renowned Highway 1. Our final destination for the day is the historic St. Augustine, once the capital of Florida and now a prominent tourist hotspot. Join us for a delightful evening as we explore the charm and history of this captivating city together.

(Driving day 12: 204 km/128 miles)

Today, we trace the Atlantic Ocean’s scenic route all the way to Daytona’s renowned “Biker” Beach. Our journey takes us through the famed “Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail,” a captivating 50 km double loop that winds through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Northeast Florida. “The Loop” sets itself apart from other rides—savor the freedom, sunshine, open road, and graceful curves, creating a dream experience for motorcycle enthusiasts everywhere. The comfortable ride is a must for those who appreciate the open highway and the natural beauty of Florida.

Our next destination is Destination Daytona, home to the world’s largest Harley Davidson dealer, Bruce Ross Meyer, featuring a sprawling showroom of 109,000 sq. ft. Here, we relish lunch amidst a fantastic atmosphere.

Following this, we commence our final stretch, returning our bikes or cars, and celebrating the safe return of everyone after a fun and eventful tour together. Our day concludes on International Drive, where we cap off the adventure at the lively B.B. Kings Blues Club. Let’s revel in the joy of a safe and memorable journey shared by all.

As we bid farewell to the America’s Smoky Mountain Blues Tour in Orlando, we express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible ride, good times, and for choosing JoyRides as your touring companion. Your journey has been a pleasure, and we sincerely appreciate your trust in us.

Wishing you a safe and pleasant trip back home, we look forward to the possibility of welcoming you again on one of our other tours across the US, South America, Asia, Africa, Oceania, or Europe. Until we meet again, may the roads ahead be filled with adventure and joy. Safe travels!

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Note: Due to the time difference, travelers from Europe will arrive home on the date or day following their departure from the US.

Additionally, please be aware that this program serves as a guideline for the activities and experiences on the tour. While deviations may occur, we assure you that our dedicated tour leaders will make every effort to execute the program as described, to the best of their ability and considering the circumstances. We are consistently working to enhance the program, so you may encounter positive surprises along the way. Your understanding and flexibility are greatly appreciated.