swamp tours pascagoula ms

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Eco-Tours of South Mississippi

Eco-Tours of South Mississippi  offers 2, 4, and 8 hour interpretive tours introducing you to the natural habitats of the cypress swamps and salt marshes of the lower Pascagoula River or the coastal barrier islands. Book a sunset cruise or take the 2-hour afternoon trip which includes a sunset.

The Pascagoula River, the longest (by volume) unimpeded river in the lower 48 states, flows 80 miles from its confluence to the Gulf of Mexico. Alligators and migratory birds–pelicans, ospreys, herons, egrets, and even bald eagles-are abundant.  Three hundred species of native plants including wild lilies and orchids enhance the beauty of the swamp.

Birders, naturalists, photographers and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy overnight adventures in a remote cabin amid the cypress knees. During your all-inclusive stay, take guided kayak tours and motorboat cruises with a seasoned guide. Check out a Sunset Cruise – the view is awesome! Custom trips are available for a girls’ day out or team building retreat.

Eco-Tours offers guided kayak trips in the marsh or swamp.

Also offer Destination Weddings for the adventurous couple! Be the couple who gets married in the swamp. Experience the wonderful adventure of a wedding in a beautiful, natural setting.

Get back to nature. For everything you want to do on the water, call Eco-Tours of South Mississippi. Water is OUR nature!

2500 Stine Road Gautier, MS 39553

228-297-8687

[email protected]

http://ecotoursofsouthmississippi.com/

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Take a Unique Journey in a Mississippi Marsh

An experience you’ll never forget.

Have you ever seen an alligator in the wild? Experience a once in a lifetime adventure at Gulf Coast Gator Ranch in Moss Point, MS! Board on one of our airboats or hand-feed alligators! Our gator ranch is fun for the whole family! Be sure to call us during inclement weather to ensure that we are open and running boat tours.

Why Visit Us?

Newton Mathews

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The Pascagoula River Swamp is truly an incredible swamp in Mississippi that everyone should experience at least once. This unique and breathtaking ecosystem showcases the beauty of Mississippi’s natural landscapes, with its rich variety of wildlife, lush vegetation, and captivating scenery.

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So, have you experienced this incredible swamp in Mississippi yet? If not, it’s time to plan your visit to the Pascagoula River Swamp and see firsthand what makes it a remarkable natural wonder. Don’t forget to check out the Pascagoula River Audubon Center to learn more about the area’s rich ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts.

If you’re curious about other hidden gems in the state, explore this Incredible Natural Wonder Hiding Right Here In Mississippi for another unforgettable experience.

What are your thoughts on the Pascagoula River Swamp? Have you visited this amazing place before, or is it on your bucket list now? Please share your experiences and opinions in the comments section below, and let’s continue discovering the beauty and wonder that Mississippi has to offer!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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McCoy's River & Marsh Tours

Come and enjoy a trip along the Pascagoula River. Let both Capt. Benny and Capt. Lynn McCoy take you on the Pascagoula River, one of the most pristine river swamps in America. We offer nature tours of this unique river and marsh system, so our guest can experience the harder to reach small bayous and sloughs of the swamp and marsh.

MORE INFORMATION

Hours of operation : regular tours on tuesdays & thursdays 10:00am and 2:00pm. saturdays: 10:00am. call to reserve seating..

MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA

• Mississippi Department of Marine Resources
• 1141 Bayview Avenue Biloxi, MS, 39530
• (228) 523-4150
• [email protected]

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Historical walks, explore the bayous, educational class trips, years of experience ready to share with you.

Eco-Tours of South Mississippi

Eco-Tours of South Mississippi offers 2, 4, and 8 hour interpretive tours introducing you to the natural habitats of the cypress swamps and salt marshes of the lower Pascagoula River or the coastal barrier islands. Book a sunset cruise or take the 2-hour afternoon trip which includes a sunset.

The Pascagoula River, the longest (by volume) unimpeded river in the lower 48 states, flows 80 miles from its confluence to the Gulf of Mexico. Alligators and migratory birds--pelicans, ospreys, herons, egrets, and even bald eagles-are abundant.  Three hundred species of native plants including wild lilies and orchids enhance the beauty of the swamp.

Birders, naturalists, photographers and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy overnight adventures in a remote cabin amid the cypress knees. During your all-inclusive stay, take guided kayak tours and motorboat cruises with a seasoned guide. Check out a Sunset Cruise - the view is awesome! Custom trips are available for a girls’ day out or team building retreat.

Eco-Tours offers guided kayak trips in the marsh or swamp.

Also offer Destination Weddings for the adventurous couple! Be the couple who gets married in the swamp. Experience the wonderful adventure of a wedding in a beautiful, natural setting.

Get back to nature. For everything you want to do on the water, call Eco-Tours of South Mississippi. Water is OUR nature!

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Mailing Address: P.O. Box 8005 Biloxi, MS 39535

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Pascagoula River Audubon Center and McCoy’s Marsh Tour 

Escape to an adventure at Pascagoula River Audubon Center! The center opens opportunities to learn, have fun and explore nature through their programs that seek to educate everyone who visits.

There are lots of exciting outdoor activities in store for you – swamp and river tour, bird watching, kayaking and more. 

However, the highlight of my visit was definitely McCoy’s River and Marsh Tour . Captain Benny is an absolute gem and I was thrilled that he guided our tour throughout the marsh and river.

More about that in a bit, first let’s chat about what you’ll find at the Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

So Many Birds

The Pascagoula River, located in southeastern Mississippi, is an 80-mile-long river that encompasses a diversity of habitats.

And if you’re a birder, this is your paradise. More than 300 species of birds call the river their home. Birds like the Prothonotary Warblers and the Swallow-tailed Kites build their nests here.

Depending on the season, you will see migratory birds make their stop in the forest around the river. These birds find food and shelter in this area and make it their temporary home. 

You’ll see a lot a birds from land, but if you head out with Captain Benny you’ll see a whole lot more.

Note: I put in some serious research to find all the best things to do along the Mississippi Coast. If you want to see what else there is to do don’t miss these Coastal Mississippi posts .

Flora and Fauna

Pascagoula River Audubon Center grow native plants in their botanical garden. The center encourages guests to also take care of plants to help birds and other animals. 

Bees and butterflies get nectar from the flowers; birds and other animals get food from the plants. Aside from that, they make the environment look beautiful. 

The center has a garden with 25 plus species of plants native to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Take a pleasant and relaxing walk along the center’s grounds and discover the beauty of these native plants.

Learn about the many uses of plants to people as well as to the animals. 

Fun For Everyone

If you want to have native plants in your own backyard, be sure to drop by the center during their yearly two-day native plant sale! Perennial species will be displayed for sale. If you have questions about the plants, there are experts available on-site to help you out.

Don’t forget to bring a box or cart so you can easily carry your plants.

Get a close up look at a hummingbird at the Hummingbird and Nature Festival schedule in September. This is great for visitors of all ages as there will be activities for the kids and adults alike. There will also be crafts and food sold during the festival.  

Explore the center by strolling along the trails, taking pictures of the bayou, and visiting the art gallery.

McCoy’s River and Swamp Tours

And one more thing you shouldn’t miss is a boat tour of Pascagoula River. McCoy’s River and Swamp Tours will cover your excitement for Pascagoula water wildlife.

Traveling through swamps and marshes, the tour will last about 2 hours. Captain Benny will entertain you with stories throughout your adventure. We made numerous stops to chat about different parts of the marsh. 

It was amazing to see how the marsh changed throughout the trip.

Among the 48 contiguous states, the Pascagoula River is considered one of the very few free-flowing rivers. There is a great diversity of animals and plants in the area.

Visiting guests will have the opportunity to see varied wildlife that includes the migratory birds, American alligators and so much more. 

This is definitely a trip I would take again and again and highly recommend to anyone visiting the area.

Certified by the US Coast Guard, you will feel safe and enjoy McCoy’s River and Swamp tours.

Be sure to make reservations in advance so you’re not disappointed. I have a feeling Captain Benny’s tours book up quick.

For boat tour reservations, contact Captain Benny McCoy at 228.219.4583 and for more information, the center’s phone number is: 228.475.0825

Looking for more fun destinations? Check out these reasons to visit Shenandoah Caverns!

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The 8 Best Boat Tours in Mississippi!

Seeing the beautiful state of Mississippi by boat is an experience unlike any other. The state’s locale along one of the largest rivers in the country, combined with miles of seashore and its fair share of lakes makes it an ideal place for those looking to take to the water. Explore some of the best sights and sounds with these 8 best boat tours in Mississippi. 

Biloxi Shrimping Trip, Biloxi, MS

This isn’t your typical shrimping excursion. They’ve put together an entire live marine adventure that shows the ins and outs of all things shrimping, with the chance to encounter blue crabs, flounder squid, pufferfish, and other sea life along the way. Much of Mississippi’s heritage comes from its sea life legacy, and there’s no better way to experience it than with this hands-on expedition.

Gulf Coast Gator Ranch, Moss Point, MS

Mississippi has some prime gator country, and you get closer than you ever thought possible to these amazing creatures via an airboat tour. These high speed adventures through the wetlands lets you view alligators and other marine life in their natural habitats. The Gator Ranch also offers walking tours where you can feed alligators by hand without compromising your safety.

Eco Tours of South Mississippi, Gautier, MS

Tour the famed Pascagoula River, which is home to alligator, pelicans, bald eagles, and hundreds of other bird species. You’ve got your pick of guided kayak tours or a trip aboard a Boston Whaler that lets you see these natural swamplands and marshes and the creatures that live here. To extend your adventure, you can opt for the overnight tour that includes a stay in a remote cabin.

Betsy Ann Riverboat, Biloxi, MS

Step aboard this majestic, old-fashioned paddle boat for a river adventure you won’t forget. They offer a variety of cruise options to suit every history buff, party animal, scholar, adventurer, and culinarian. This is one of the few remaining paddle boats of its kind, and simply being aboard is an experience in itself.

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Wolf River Canoe and Kayak, Long Beach, MS

One of the most highly anticipated tours here are the full moon adventures that take you through scenic wilderness under a bright full moon. But for the rest of the month, they also offer group trips of varying distances that put you in control of your canoe or kayak with plenty of stops for fun. It’s a great way to see the little known side of Mississippi’s scenic landscape where no car could ever go.

Ship Island Excursions, Gulfport, MS

An hour’s boat ride is the only thing separating you from Ship Island, one of the most talked about tourist spots in the state. You can stay overnight on the island or simply enjoy an out and back boat ride. The charter company also offers sunset and fireworks cruises, as well as fun themes like their Sinatra cruise. 

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North Star Sailing Charters, Gulfport, MS

Mississippi’s Gulf Coast is truly a sight to behold, and you can get some of the best views on a sailing charter. From dinners to day trips, you’ll get great views of local sea life like pelicans and dolphins. You’re in control and customize your charter to your liking, whether you want to include a picnic or enjoy a cruise under the stars.

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Airboat Swamp Tours & Charters, Pass Christian, MS

Just a stone’s throw from Louisiana’s bayous, these swamp tours highlight the wonders of the area’s wetlands. Explore the natural elements and get up close to Mississippi wildlife by venturing far away from the hustle and bustle. This is a boat tour the whole family can enjoy.

Adams County

Alcorn county, amite county, attala county, benton county.

• Hickory Flat
• Michigan City

Bolivar County

• Mound Bayou
• Winstonville

Calhoun County

• Calhoun City
• Slate Spring

Carroll County

• North Carrollton

Chickasaw County

Choctaw county.

• French Camp

Claiborne County

• Hermanville
• Port Gibson

Clarke County

Clay county, coahoma county.

• Friars Point

Copiah County

• Crystal Springs

Covington County

• Mount Olive

Desoto County

• Lake Cormorant
• Olive Branch

Forrest County

• Hattiesburg

Franklin County

• Mc Call Creek

George County

Greene county.

• Leakesville

Grenada County

• Gore Springs

Hancock County

• Bay Saint Louis
• Diamondhead
• Pearlington
• Stennis Space Center

Harrison County

• Pass Christian

Hinds County

Holmes county, humphreys county.

• Silver City

Issaquena County

• Mayersville
• Valley Park

Itawamba County

Jackson county.

• Ocean Springs

Jasper County

• Bay Springs

Jefferson County

• Union Church

Jefferson Davis County

Jones county.

• Eastabuchie
• Sandersville

Kemper County

• Porterville

Lafayette County

• Memphis Stc

Lamar County

Lauderdale county.

• Collinsville

Lawrence County

• Silver Creek

Leake County

• Walnut Grove
• Plantersville

Leflore County

• Minter City
• Morgan City

Lincoln County

• Bogue Chitto

Lowndes County

Madison county, marion county, marshall county.

• Holly Springs
• Mount Pleasant

Monroe County

• Greenwood Springs

Montgomery County

Neshoba county.

• Philadelphia

Newton County

• Little Rock

Noxubee County

• Brooksville

Oktibbeha County

• Mississippi State

Panola County

Pearl river county.

• Poplarville

Perry County

• New Augusta

Pike County

Pontotoc county, prentiss county, quitman county, rankin county.

• Pelahatchie
• Piney Woods

Scott County

• Harperville

Sharkey County

• Panther Burn
• Rolling Fork

Simpson County

• Harrisville

Smith County

• Taylorsville

Stone County

Sunflower county.

• Holly Ridge

Tallahatchie County

Tate county.

• Independence

Tippah County

• Blue Mountain
• Tiplersville

Tishomingo County

Tunica county.

• Robinsonville
• Tunica Resorts

Union County

• Blue Springs

Walthall County

Warren county, washington county.

• Winterville

Wayne County

Webster county.

• Bellefontaine

Wilkinson County

• Centreville

Winston County

Yalobusha county.

• Coffeeville
• Water Valley

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• Holly Bluff

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McCoys Swamp & River Tours NOT OPERATING AT THIS TIME

BOAT IS IN THE SHOP AND NOT OPERATING UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.  SORRY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE.

Center Membership

Enjoy free admission, discounts in our nature store, and free and discounted programs at the center. 

How you can help, right now

Read a little about our staff members.

Support the Center with a donation

Support outdoor education and conservation along the Pascagoula River through a donation.

Volunteer With Us!

We need helpers in the gardens, at the front desk, and with educational programs. Contact us today for more information. 

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Tours Beyond

Slide title

Biloxi Lighthouse

Downtown Nashville, TN

Grand Ole Opry, Nashville

Ryman Auditorium, Nashville

French Quarter, New Orleans

Graceland mansion

• St. Louis Gateway Arch

Music of the South

(mississippi gulf coast).

Enjoy the warmth, culture, and music of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast might be dismissed as a land of swamps, Spanish moss, gumbo, and gators, but there is so much more! This is a region of resilient, resourceful people with a storied history that includes hard-working fishermen, French pirates, the legacy of the antebellum period, and famous music legends. While exploring the region, experience delightful “Southern Hospitality” and enjoy the music of Nashville, New Orleans, and Memphis with enlightened appreciation.

RELATED TOURs: Nashville Music City , Branson, Missouri

Beyond Canada - Southeastern US

Activity Rating

Fitness Scale: Level 3

Breakfasts: 11

Pickup: Route A

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee is nicknamed “Music City”, and is also known as the "home of country music". Since the 1960s, Nashville has been the second-largest music production center (after New York) in the United States. The downtown area features a diverse assortment of entertainment, dining, cultural and architectural attractions. It is here you’ll find The Ryman Auditorium , the “Mother Church of Country Music”, a venue that has hosted many diverse artists over the years. Nashville is also the home of The Grand Ole Opry , a weekly country-music show founded on November 28, 1925. Today it is the longest-running radio broadcast in US history. 

• Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum

Did you know that Biloxi, Mississippi was once hailed as “The Seafood Capital of the World”? This little-known fact along with more than 300 years of history, heritage and culture are housed inside The Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum . It’s a state-of-the-art museum that takes you back to a special time along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It is home to two authentic replicas of Biloxi Oyster Schooners. The “White Winged Queens” served as workhorses of the seafood industry more than 100 years ago. 

Shrimping Boat Tour

The pride and heritage of Biloxi comes alive aboard this unique and interesting cruise. The Biloxi Shrimping Trip introduces guests to the spectacular world of sea life caught on a real shrimping expedition. “How many legs does a shrimp have?” Learn everything you ever wanted to know about catching, cooking, and eating this delicious southern delicacy, Mississippi Gulf Coast Style. 

Biloxi Visitors Center Lighthouse Park

The Biloxi Visitors Center opened in July 2011 in the shadow of the Biloxi Lighthouse. It fuses the city’s architectural heritage with state-of-the-art technology and multi-media exhibits, providing visitors with a feel for the Biloxi of yesterday and today. Step out onto the second-floor porch and you’ll be at eye level with the beacon of the Biloxi Lighthouse, enjoying the cool breezes off the Gulf of Mexico, while soaking up the panoramic view of the Biloxi beach and Mississippi Sound.

Pascagoula River Audubon Center

The Pascagoula River Audubon Center is the educational gateway to exploring nature and bayou habitats. With more than 35,000 acres of land along the Pascagoula River preserved for the public, the Nature Conservancy has protected a unique ecosystem that keeps the largest free-flowing river in the lower 48 States one of the wildest. Wildlife abounds in the Pascagoula River- including some species that are found nowhere else on the planet.

Gator Ranch and Swamp Tour

The Gulf Coast Gator Ranch is a place to take a walk on the wild side! Walkways through the swampland provide opportunities to see alligators “up close and personal.” With the airboat tour of the swamp, travel through this special habitat and witness a variety of wildlife. Who knew that the words “beautiful”, “pristine”, and “finest” could apply to swampland?

St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church

The St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church was founded in 1857, when the Rev. Claude Paschal Maistre of Troyes, France, became the parish priest. At that time, Father Maistre ministered to a racially diverse parish that included whites and free people of colour. Despite the pro-Confederate stance of the local church leaders, Maistre preached the emancipation of slaves and true equal rights for all. Today the church is home to one of the best Southern Gospel Choirs in the country and its altar features an extraordinary mural of an African Christ figure rising before a live oak tree.

Mardi Gras Museum tour

The Bay St. Louis Mardi Gras Museum is located on the first floor of the historic Bay St. Louis Train Depot (L & N Railroad Depot), built in 1928. The Museum features over a dozen elaborate Mardi Gras costumes designed by Carter Church. Each year, there’s a new theme for the annual Mardi Gras Ball, and it takes Carter a full year to design and create the wardrobe, many of which are sewn by hand.

FUN FACTS: There is so much glue used to make the costumes, it is purchased in 5-gallon containers. The ostrich feathers are from Africa.

New Orleans

The “Big Easy, is Situated on the Mississippi River, near the Gulf of Mexico. It's known for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live-music scene, and spicy cuisine reflecting its history as a melting pot of French, African and American cultures. Embodying its festive spirit is Mardi Gras, the late-winter carnival famed for raucous costumed parades and street parties.

The Court of Two Sisters

More than just a restaurant, The Court of Two Sisters is legendary! Enjoy luscious Creole and Cajun cuisine, pass through the Charm Gates, make a wish in the Wishing Well, and hear the story of Emma and Bertha, the two sisters who ran a Notions shop here in the French Quarter. Legend has it that the true name of the wishing well in the courtyard is the Devil’s Wishing Well, based on the supposition that since Marie Laveau practiced her voodoo rites in the torchlit confines of the city’s largest courtyard.  While the legends are fun, these days, visitors enjoy the famous jazz brunch.

The French Quarter

It seems nothing can dampen the spirits where the good times roll, the jazz is cool and the food is hot. Get in on the action in the world-famous Vieux Carré, better known as The French Quarter , the historic heart of the city. Known for its Dixieland Sounds and Bourbon Street banter, it is also the oldest neighbourhood in the city. It’s here, in late February, that the infamous winter carnival, Mardi Gras, is held.

You've heard the music, now see the place Elvis called home . Explore the beautiful mansion, walk the gardens where he found peace, tour the museum with the aircraft that he traveled on from show to show, and encounter Elvis Presley's Memphis entertainment complex for an unforgettable experience featuring legendary costumes, artifacts, and personal mementos from Elvis and his family.

Memphis – Beale Street

Around the time of the Civil War, Beale Street became a thriving area for black commerce and culture. A park on the corner became a gathering center for blue’s musicians, and Beale Street’s heyday during the roaring 20’s saw gentlemen wearing boxback suits and Stetson hats with thriving nightclubs, restaurants, shops and theatres.  From the 1920’s to 1940’s artists such as Muddy Waters, Louis Armstrong and B.B. King developed the legendary Memphis Blues sound. A special treat is in store, with a dinner visit to B.B. King’s Blue’s Club !

The Gateway Arch 

The Arch was built as a monument to the Westward expansion and known as the “ Gateway to the West ”. This internationally famous symbol of St. Louis opened to the public on June 10, 1967. Both the width and height of the arch are 630 feet (192 m) making it is the world's tallest arch, the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere and Missouri's tallest accessible building. It’s hollow to accommodate a unique tram system that takes visitors to an observation deck at the top. It has been declared to be "a symbolic bridge between East and West, past and future, engineering and art that embodies the boundless optimism of a growing nation."

Why This Tour is Great

Experience the Warmth of the South

From Nashville to Biloxi to New Orleans and Memphis, you’ll be warmly welcomed with the flavours, culture and hospitality of the South.  From your “home base” for five nights in Biloxi, be treated to some fine Southern Hospitality and explore the charm of the area.

Music History!

With visits to Nashville, New Orleans, Graceland, and Memphis, see the places where music legends were born, where “the King of Rock ‘n Roll” lived, and where the blues found their roots. Experience the Grand Ole Opry, enjoy a jazz brunch, go down to the Jungle Room, walk Beale Street in Memphis, and have dinner in B.B. King’s Blues Club!

Visit the private home of Elvis Presley and stay at The Guest House at Graceland, one of the top hotels in Memphis. Graceland is not just a mansion.  Yes, it was a private retreat, it was the place where Elvis enjoyed life and spent time with his family, but today it is “120 acres dedicated to the life and career of this American legend.” Indeed, the gardens, Elvis Presley’s Memphis Entertainment Complex, and museums with interactive exhibits speak to an incredibly interesting life! 

What's Included

• Our unique Connections Program
• Private coach transportation
• 11 nights of accommodation
• 11 breakfasts, 3 lunches,  5 dinners
• Local professional guides and all entry fees to included highlights
• Services of a Tours in Canada Tour Director

Prices are in Canadian dollars, are per person, and all applicable taxes.

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS:

• Guided tour of Nashville
• Guided tour of Ryman Auditorium 
• The Grand Ole Opry back-stage tour and Show
• Shrimping Expedition
• Guided tour of Biloxi, Lighthouse Park & Visitors Centre
• St. Rose de Lima Church
• Mardi Gras Museum
• L&N Historic Train Station
• Pascagoula River Audubon Centre
• Gulf Coast Gator Ranch & Swamp Tour
• Guided tour of New Orleans
• Jazz Brunch at The Court of Two Sisters
• New Orleans French Quarter
• Graceland VIP Experience
• Tour of Memphis
• Sun Studio Guided Tour
• B.B. King's Blues Club

Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 1:  Travel to Lima, OH

Start your journey south, travelling through Ontario, Michigan and into Ohio for an overnight stay. Enjoy an included dinner and get to know your fellow travellers.

Stay: Hampton Inn, Lima OH (1 night)

Day 2: Lima, OH to Nashville, TN

Travel to Nashville, Tennessee, through the Great Smokie Mountains and admire the amazing scenery. Arrive at the home of country music by mid-afternoon and get an introduction to the Grand Ole Opry with a Backstage tour. Arrive at the opulent Gaylord Opryland Hotel in time to freshen up before enjoying a free evening. With two nights at this centrally located hotel, you are close to all the honkytonk action, and the hotel has live entertainment every night!

Stay: Gaylord Opryland Hotel (2 nights)

Meals: B 

Day 3: Guided tour of Nashville, The Ryman Auditorium & The Grand Ole Opry

Enjoy a guided tour of Nashville, with the tour ending at the Ryman Auditorium, a red brick building that has launched country music careers for over 130 years. You’ll have a free afternoon for lunch and sightseeing. Suggestions for the afternoon include the Country Music Hall of Fame, Johnny Cash Museum, Patsy Cline Museum, and RCA Studio B. This evening, enjoy The Grand Ole Opry Live Radio Show.

Day 4: Nashville, TN to Biloxi, MS

Travel south to the Gulf Coast and Biloxi, Mississippi. Arrive at the hotel where you’ll settle in for the next four nights.

Stay: Double Tree by Hilton, Biloxi, MS. (4 nights)

Meals: B, D

Day 5: Shrimping Expedition, Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum, Tour of Biloxi

Let's go "shrimpin’"! Board the ship for a 70-minute ride, where you will learn how to set a trawl net and fish the Mississippi Sound for blue crabs, oysterfish, flounder, stingrays, squid, pufferfish, and shrimp! Back on land, enjoy the daily catch with a traditional shrimp boil. After lunch, visit the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum and discover 300 years of Mississippi’s gritty heritage on a guided tour through informative exhibits and replica displays. Then, enjoy a guided tour of Biloxi, including the Visitors Center, which contains artifacts from Hurricane Katrina and Lighthouse Park, with beautiful views of the Mississippi Sound.

Meals: B, L

Day 6: Bay St. Louis & Pascagoula

After breakfast, board the coach and meet our local guide, who will personally show us around the coastal city of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi and the St. Rose de Lima Church, the Mardi Gras Museum, and the L&N Train Station.  After lunch, travel to Moss Point to the Pascagoula River Audubon Centre for an introduction to the unique ecosystem in the bayou. Then, enjoy an unforgettable experience with a tour of the Gulf Coast Gator Ranch and an airboat swamp tour. During dinner, there’s sure to be some fun discussions of favourite features of the day!

Day 7:  New Orleans

Today’s adventure is in the "Big Easy", New Orleans.  A local guide will provide an overview of the city, followed by a jazz brunch at the award-winning Court of Two Sisters. After lunch, enjoy free time in the famous French Quarter before returning to the hotel in Biloxi.

Day 8:  Biloxi, MS to Memphis, TN

Travel from Mississippi to Tennessee, and on the way stop at the home of HGTV “My Home Town” for lunch. Arrive in Memphis late in the afternoon, and check into your hotel, a resort experience inspired by Elvis Presley. The Guest House at Graceland is just steps away from the music world’s important and beloved landmark, Graceland, and offers a perfect blend of style and Southern hospitality, 

Stay: Guest House at Graceland, Memphis, TN (2 nights)

Day 9:  Graceland & Memphis

Enjoy a full morning touring Graceland! With your VIP ticket gain full access to Elvis Presley’s Memphis Entertainment Complex which is home to 3 museums. Tour the mansion and see his cars, custom jets, lavish costumes and more. The afternoon will focus on the history of the “Home of the Blues” with a tour of Sun Studios and a tour of the city of Memphis. As a perfect conclusion for our stay in Memphis, for dinner, enjoy special seating overlooking the stage at B.B. King’s Blues Club!

Day 10:  Memphis, TN to St. Louis, MO

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll follow the mighty Mississippi, heading northward to St Louis, the “Gateway to the West”. Take a one-of-a-kind ride to the top of the Gateway Arch for wonderful pictures of the Mississippi River.  We’ll arrive at the hotel and “Kick Back” and have some fun this evening.

Stay: Drury’s Plaza St. Louis Arch, St. Louis, MO (1 night) 

Day 11:  Kalamazoo, MI  

Board the motorcoach after breakfast and relax as we travel north to Kalamazoo, Michigan today. Tonight, gather with your fellow travellers and new friends for a farewell dinner.

Stay: The Fours Points by Sheraton, Kalamazoo, Michigan (1 night) 

Day 12:  Travel Home

Journey homeward with a border crossing at Sarnia. Bid ‘adieu’ to new friends as you savour your memories made in the South.

Accommodations

Hampton Inn, Lima OH  (1 night)

https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/limohhx-hampton-lima/

The Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville, TN  (2 nights)

The Gaylord Opryland Resort features 15 restaurants, 4 bars and multiple retail stores. To say that this resort has “amenities” is quite an understatement! There are 3 sparkling pools, an award-winning Relâche Spa & Fitness Center, and a beautiful 18-hole golf course. See other information about this spectacular hotel in the highlights!

Double Tree by Hilton, Biloxi, MS  (4 nights)

The beachfront Double Tree by Hilton, Biloxi , is across the street from the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, close to the boardwalk and a ten-minute walk from the Biloxi Lighthouse. The comfortable rooms and amenities, convenient location, and lovely views make this hotel a great “home base” for adventures in Mississippi.

Guest House at Graceland, Memphis, TN  (2 nights)

Just steps away from the iconic Graceland Mansion, museums, and entertainment complex, The Guest House at Graceland welcomes visitors from around the world with Southern hospitality and luxurious amenities. Designed with the “make-yourself-at-home” sentiment that Elvis showed his guests, and Priscilla Presley’s touch of grace and dash of rock ‘n roll, this world-class resort is the perfect place to stay while experiencing the magic of Memphis.

Drury Plaza St. Louis Arch, St. Louis, MO (1 night)

https://www.druryhotels.com/locations/st-louis-mo/drury-plaza-hotel-st-louis-at-the-arch

Four Points by Sheraton, Kalamazoo, MI  (1 night)

https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/azofp-four-points-kalamazoo/

Important Info for this Tour

This 12-day tour follows pickup Route A , and includes our unique Connections Program .  The pickup locations are:

• Peterborough
• Bowmanville

A sweater or light jacket and a portable umbrella are always a good idea. Don’t forget a sun hat, sunglasses and sun block and most important, your camera!

This itinerary includes several boat cruises. Although for most people medication is not required, there may be some who may want to bring along a remedy for motion sickness. You don’t want to let a little thing like that spoil these amazing experiences.

Optional Additions

It is possible for guests from anywhere in the world to join this tour by flying into Toronto and use our Connections Program to get a pickup point. It's also possible to join this tour in Nashville and leave this tour from the major cities on the route, such as Memphis. Please contact us to discuss your airfare and pre-and post-tour accommodation options .

Neon lights of Nashville

Graceland Museum - Private Presley's uniform

Graceland Museum - MG from Blue Hawaii

Mississippi Gulf Coast swamp

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