Justin MacPhee, our amazing Tour Coordinator, recently completed a research trip to Nashville & Branson during our group tour this November. Upon returning, he is excited to share his highlights and tips on what to see and not to miss. At the end of this blog post, we also introduce the 2017 Nashville trip, what we are calling “Donalda’s Farewell Tour”.

 

As an avid lover of country music and live music in general, I was excited to be given the opportunity to visit Nashville and Branson recently. It was truly the trip of a lifetime and I am excited to be able to share my experience.

Nashville

 

Nashville is a bucket list destination for most country music fans and I am no exception. It has long been on my list of must-visit cities for quite some time and I was glad to have been given the opportunity to do so. Because there are so many things to see in Nashville, I wanted to provide my highlights so that you can make the most of your time in the city.

1. Gaylord Opryland Resort

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This massive resort located just outside of downtown Nashville truly comes alive during the holiday season. Not only is the resort spectacular to view in itself, but at Christmas it is beautifully decorated both inside and out. I was truly in awe as I entered each area and was immediately put in the Christmas spirit.

2. Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman Auditorium

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What trip to Nashville would be complete without a visit to the Grand Ole Opry? I was able to take in a Saturday night performance at the “Mother Church of Country Music” – the Ryman Auditorium. The Grand Ole Opry is an amazing experience in itself but it is truly made unique when sitting in the historic pews of the Ryman. I was able to enjoy performances by some of the greats and some up-and-comers including Ricky Skaggs, Bill Anderson, Connie Smith, Ray Stevens, Restless Heart and Brett Kissel to name a few. You never know who will be taking the stage at the Opry!

3. Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

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Filled with fascinating exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of how country music came to be. They also feature rotating exhibits from specific artists (Alabama, Brad Paisley and Zac Brown Band were featured during my visit). You will find everything from unique outfits, handwritten lyric sheets, instruments, and awards to Elvis Presley’s solid gold Cadillac. As you make your way though the exhibits you will finish in the Hall of Fame Rotunda where plaques honouring each of member can be found.

4. Downtown Nashville56

There is no shortage of things to do in downtown Nashville – visit the famous Honky Tonks along Broadway and take in the many live performances, walk along the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge for amazing views of the Nashville skyline, stroll through the Music City Walk of Fame, browse for souvenirs in the many shops or eat in any of the mouthwatering restaurants. You will find you will run out of time before you run out of things to do!

Branson

Branson was an unexpected surprise during this trip and certainly provided plenty of enjoyment. Along 76 Country Boulevard you will find a seemingly endless supply of theatres, entertainment venues, and shopping. While in Branson I took in four performances and was able to get a start on my Christmas shopping. There is a lot to say about Branson and here are just a few of my favourite parts.

1. Dixie Stampede

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Not only do you get to take in a great performance and live nativity but you will also enjoy a mouthwatering feast (eaten without utensils). This was a great introduction to the truly amazing entertainment and service Branson has to offer.

2. Presleys’ Jubilee

The Presleys are one of Branson’s original performing families. They have been entertaining since 1967 and continue to do so with a great mix of country, gospel, bluegrass and comedy. They will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit with their great holiday show. (This will be an optional show in the 2017 tour itinerary)

3. Showboat Branson Belle

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The Showboat Branson Belle is a paddle wheel riverboat situated on Table Rock Lake. During this unique excursion you will enjoy a delicious meal, witness breathtaking views, and be treated to dancing, singing and a live band. It is truly like no other attraction in Branson.

Of course, there are plenty of other shows to match any taste in Branson and these run in the morning, afternoon and evening. And if you are looking for something else there are other attractions available such as outlet shopping at the Tanger Outlets, museums and amusement venues for the more adventurous.

As you can see there is plenty to do in both Nashville and Branson and we would love to take you there. Target Tours offers a tour annually in November where you can enjoy many of the attractions listed above and more with the perfect balance of free time and scheduled activities.

This year we will have a special guest on board to assist your Tour Director. Donalda Doucette has recently retired from Tour Directing but will be on board this tour to impart her extensive knowledge and experience and enjoy the trip with fellow passengers. If you would like to sign up for Donalda’s Farewell Tour please click HERE to learn more. We hope we can provide you with this memorable experience soon!