Gangsters, Bourbon and Dining

Day 2 : Cincinnati

Discover where North meets South and Ohio and Kentucky connect. Here, the German heritage and urban vibrancy of Cincinnati, Ohio, blend seamlessly with the Southern charm quirkiness of Northern Kentucky, just a bridge-walk across the Ohio River. The river defines the CINCY Region and much of its history past and present revolves around it.

Cincinnati is a city rich in architecture and culture with a European flavour and a sense of the south. Take a trip on one of the rivers paddle steamers, or climb Mount Adams, taking in easily the best view of the city. Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Centre to experience the journey to freedom and walk over the historic Roebling Bridge to bring that history to life. Take a Newport Gangster tour to learn about the region's outlaw past during Prohibition and how this history gave rise to Newport becoming the gambling capital of the country before Las Vegas.

The Cincy (as it’s known) region is also home to more than 60 independent breweries and is an official gateway to the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Here, you can go 30 feet below ground on a guided tour of Cincy’s Pre-Prohibition tunnels to explore the city’s rich brewing history before grabbing a pint to taste the present. Cross the river into Northern Kentucky to start your amber adventure on a 25-stop, passport-guided bourbon tour consisting of craft bourbon distilleries, urban bourbon bars and notable restaurants.

Day 3 : Lexington (83 miles)

Collect your car this morning for the start your drive. Today’s destination is Lexington, the Horse Capital of The World. Visit the amazing Kentucky Horse Park, continue the celebration of Bourbon at 4 distilleries and explore the historic railway town of Midway.

Day 4 : Louisville (80 miles)

This morning head for Louisville – the largest city in Kentucky. Louisville is firmly entrenched in the American national consciousness for its multimillion-dollar Kentucky Derby held each May at Churchill Downs. Downtown Louisville rolls gently down towards Main Street then abruptly lunges down to the river where the historic Belle of Louisville leaves for daily sightseeing cruises. You can visit the Muhammad Ali Centre, where Ali was born as Cassius Clay in 1942. The centre does not shy away from Ali’s failings, but his boxing achievements are the centrepiece and fans can watch his fights in a multimedia area as well as learn about his stand against the Vietnam War and racism.

Day 5 : Bardstown (42 miles)

It’s just a short drive today to Bardstown, regarded as the bourbon capital of the world. It’s also named the best small town in the US and where you’ll find an array of eclectic shops sitting side by side with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Take time to visit the Jim Beam American outpost where you can learn about 6 generations of Beam distillers and explore The Oscar Getz Museum of Whisky history.

Day 6 : Bowling Green (102 miles)

This charming city is awash with southern hospitality and also home to the GM Corvette Assembly Plant, where every corvette in the world is made. You can learn more at the National Corvette Museum just across the road. Mammoth Cave National Park lied just outside the city and is home to rolling hills, deep river valleys and the longest known cave system in the world. The rich abundance of flora and fauna has justifiably earnt it a place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve.

Day 7 : Lynchburg/Franklin (195 miles)

Today takes in Lynchburg, home to the Jack Daniels Distillery before making your way to Franklin. Crafted over 150 years this distillery was the first registered distillers in the US, the history including the struggles during the prohibition era is fascinating. Franklin was a key site in the American Civil War and is a place where southern history meets small town charm.

Day 8-9 : Nashville (20 miles)

Spend a leisurely morning exploring Franklin further before making the short drive over the border into Nashville. A city rich in musical heritage and southern roots, Nashville is still one of the most important music cities in the USA.

There is so much to see and do here. Perhaps visit the legendary Country Music Hall of Fame and Studio B where legends including Elvis, Dolly Parton, the Everly Brothers and many more created their unique brands of music. Hear live music at a honky-tonk or kick your heels up into the early hours line dancing at a saloon. The legendary Grand Ole Opry is a 'must see' on weekends.

Day 10 : Depart Nashville

Return your car to Nashville Airport in time for your onward flight.