Welcome to Atlanta and the Peach State! At 6 pm, meet your travelling companions for a welcome drink. Your Tour Director will prepare you for your upcoming Southern adventure!
Morning sightseeing includes Centennial Olympic Park, the historic Fox Theatre, and the Buckhead neighbourhood, often referred to as the "Beverly Hills of the South." A visit is also made to the MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, where you'll learn more about the man and his legacy. During your free time this afternoon, you may wish to visit the Georgia Aquarium or the World of Coca- Cola. Dinner this evening is at Pittypat's Porch, serving traditional Southern food since the 1960s. (B,D)
Depart Atlanta and head east across Georgia and South Carolina to the coast. Arrive in Charleston, home to cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and low-country cuisine. This evening is free to explore on your own. You may wish to stroll the historic district, sample fresh seafood, or learn about Charleston's colourful past on a ghost tour. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for dining this evening. (B)
Start the day with an orientation tour of Charleston before visiting America's most photographed plantation, BOONE HALL PLANTATION & GARDENS. Tour the mansion, see the slave cabins, and visit the beautiful gardens. Next, a special GULLAH LUNCHEON, where you'll enjoy a private performance highlighting the rich history of the Gullah people and their culture. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to shop for a favourite souvenir at historic City Market, where more than 50 artisans are on-site daily; take a relaxing and scenic cruise of Charleston Harbour; or try one of Charleston's favourite dishes, such as She-crab Soup or Carolina Gold Rice. (B,L)
Depart Charleston for picturesque Beaufort, a town that has conserved much of its pre-revolutionary character. Enjoy a guided tour of the town by HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE through narrow, oak-lined streets past the former homes of wealthy cotton growers. This afternoon, make your way to romantic Savannah, America's first planned city. Upon arrival, visit the AMERICAN PROHIBITION MUSEUM, where there's time to explore the various exhibits, interact with costumed guides, and enjoy a classic cocktail in the SPEAKEASY. (B)
This morning, enjoy a TROLLEY TOUR led by a Local Guide who will entertain you with stories of the city's colourful characters and past. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore more of this beautiful city. We recommend strolling through Forsyth Park, spending time at the Telfair Museum of Art, window shopping on Broughton Street, or touring the Mercer Williams House Museum-made famous in the book and movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional shopping, sightseeing, and dining. (B)
Visit nearby St. Simons Island, home to beautiful beaches and charming communities. Continue to Jekyll Island for a guided TROLLEY TOUR of the Club Historic District. A cluster of 19th-century mansions, this "club" was formed by some of America's most prominent families. Your tour includes a visit to one of the most elaborate winter mansions, such as the Rockefellers' Indian Mound. After the tour, your Tour Director hosts a festive farewell lunch at the JEKYLL ISLAND CLUB. Built in 1887, the Jekyll Island Club was the winter home of the Vanderbilt, Rockefeller, and Morgan families. Enjoy the atmosphere and superior service of this famous and historic location. Return to Savannah, where your evening is at leisure. (B,L)
This morning, travel back to Atlanta for your homebound flight. The tour ends at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Please schedule flights after 4 pm. (B)
