Bourbon, Bluegrass and Barbecue - USA

DAY WISE ITINERARY

DAY 01: Louisville, Kentucky: The Urban Gateway to Kentucky Bourbon

After flying into Louisville International Airport (SDF), rent a car and hit the open road to start your escapades in this delightful city's downtown. Stop by the Old Forester Distillery, which is known for its trademark – America's First Bottled Bourbon. Take a tour of the distillery, learn the ins and outs of the whiskey-making process and, of course, taste! Once you've sipped and savored some libations, horse-lovers should take a trip to Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum. Featuring interactive exhibits and artifacts from horse-racing legends, the museum is the perfect place to spend the afternoon. At the adjacent Churchill Downs Racetrack, seeing Thoroughbreds in action is simply awe-inspiring. Louisville is more than spirits and stallions. If you're looking to experience the city from a different perspective, why not rent a bicycle and pedal through Cherokee Park? Cycle across The Big Four Pedestrian & Bike Bridge and work up an appetite that's best satiated at Harvest, an award-winning farm-to-table restaurant in the NuLu Arts District.

DAY 02: Lexington, Kentucky: Entertainment Meets Idyllic Escapes

Drive to Lexington, Kentucky, where rolling green fields and picturesque farmhouses await, as well as more delicious bourbon. Spend the day at The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky and wander through a 44-hectare arboretum on the University of Kentucky's campus. During your stay in Lexington, a trip to the Kentucky Horse Park shouldn't be missed. Enjoy a trail ride on the scenic outskirts of the property, and take a tour of the horse farm that also doubles as an equine educational theme park. Before you pack up and head to Owensboro, stop for a tour of the James E. Pepper Distillery. Immerse yourself in the art of bourbon making, then head to the Middle Fork Kitchen Bar for flavorful and fresh farm fare.

DAY 03: Owensboro, Kentucky: Bluegrass and Barbecue

Dream of finger-licking-good barbecue as you drive to Owensboro, Kentucky, and satisfy your cravings at the Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn. Known for its Kentucky-specific mutton, this down-home, family-owned eatery is famous for its award-winning barbecue. Sample fresh beef, mouthwatering mutton and tender pulled pork. Once you've filled up on some good eats, burn off calories with a stroll through Yellow Creek Park. For those seeking a low-key afternoon, head to the Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can check out interactive exhibits, enjoy live banjo music and experience the preservation of Kentucky's heritage through instrument demonstrations.

DAY 04: St. Louis, Missouri: Icons of the USA

Your Southern adventure continues to St. Louis, Missouri, where iconic sites are waiting to be explored. Your first stop should be Gateway Arch National Park along the banks of the Mississippi River. Tour historic buildings such as the Old Courthouse and Museum of Westward Expansion. For families looking for a fun afternoon with the kids, the St. Louis Zoo in Forest Park is a must-see destination. If you're looking to listen to blues music, the National Blues Museum is an immersive experience. You can't experience the city fully without grabbing some delicious local grub. Pappy's Smokehouse is a popular spot with the locals – bite into tangy, wood-smoked St. Louis-style ribs that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

DAY 05: Branson, Missouri: A Show-Stopping Introduction to the Ozarks

From luxury resorts to lively entertainment, Branson, Missouri, is the perfect gateway to the wonders of the Ozarks. Venture back to the 1880s at Silver Dollar City, a theme park that features over 40 rides, toe-tapping entertainment and exceptional shopping. Next, continue your adventure at the Branson Strip, a famed thoroughfare that features attractions such as Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theatre, Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede and Presley's Country Jubilee. Wrap up your Branson trip with a sunset cruise on Lake Taneycomo.

DAY 06: Eureka Springs, Arkansas: Quaint Mountain History

Take a short detour to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, this picturesque town beckons visitors with its artsy allure, outdoor recreational activities and historic charm. Begin your adventure with a tram tour of downtown and see popular sites such as the haunted Crescent Hotel and the Grotto Spring Museum. A trip to Eureka Springs warrants a visit to the Funnel Cake Factory. Finally, cap off your trip with a drive to Basin Spring Park – an ancient healing spring used by the local Native American Tribes and settlers.

DAY 07: Bentonville, Arkansas: Small-Town Charm Meets World-Class Art

Buckle up and settle in for a scenic ride to Bentonville, Arkansas. Known for its small-town charm, art scene, unique eateries and the original Walmart, you'll find there's much to see and do. Discover world-class exhibits at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Featuring works from revered artists such as Georgia O'Keefe, Norman Rockwell and Andy Warhol, this museum is an architectural gem surrounded by a pristine Ozark forest. Prior to heading to your final stop, check out the Walmart Museum and relive the birth of the historic store chain.

DAY 08: Mountain View, Arkansas: Heart of Ozark Nature and Culture

Answer the call to adventure in Mountain View, Arkansas, where awe-inspiring views and natural wonders await. Start the day at the Ozark Folk Center State Park, an immersive experience devoted to showcasing and preserving the Ozark culture. Next, venture underground and into the Blanchard Springs Caverns & Recreation Area. Explore impressive cave formations, dip your toes in cool, clear streams and don't miss the fascinating Water Works exhibit. With your belly full and sense of adventure satiated, you can fly out of Memphis, Tennessee, as your journey comes to a close.