For many of us our favourite artists have been our companions through the highs and the lows of life, becoming the soundtrack to our happiest memories, or the lifelines that carried us through.
It’s no wonder so many of us feel the desire to seek out the places that gave life to the songs that shaped us, with a recent survey by American Holidays finding nearly a quarter of adults (24%)¹ have a music pilgrimage holiday on their bucket list.
The team at American Holidays has been noticing this trend first hand. As Dee Burdock, Head of Product explains: “We’re starting to see a real shift in travel priorities, with customers choosing experiences that connect deeply with their passions and interests, and which feel truly transformative. Music, as a universally binding art form, and is uniquely meaningful, which is why so many people want to step into the shoes of their favourite artists to see the world through their eyes. Increasingly, customers are coming to us wanting to discover and experience the cities and landscapes that inspired the music they love.
“Certain experiences, like music travel, are so unique to a destination that they simply can’t be replicated elsewhere. That’s why travellers will make the journey for cultural adventures like music pilgrimages or visits to filming locations, across the states. America has so much cultural capital when it comes to music, home to some of the world’s biggest stars from Elvis to Dolly and Beyonce, to Nirvana and the birthplace of genres such as the blues and grunge. Not to mention, there are so many iconic venues, record studios and festivals to explore across the country.”
To give further insight into some of the US’s best music pilgrimages, Dee has outlined some of her topic picks for music holidays, including insight into where to head.
1.Chicago
“Chicago isn’t just about deep-dish pizza and theatre—it’s one of America’s great music cities. The city is most famously known for its blues and jazz heritage, thanks to pioneers like Sam Cooke and Nat King Cole. Today, major events like the Chicago Jazz Festival and venues such as the Green Mill, once a Prohibition hangout for Al Capone, continue to draw music lovers from around the world. Chicago is also equally as legendary, but maybe not as well-known as the birthplace of house music, with the city’s underground club scene giving rise to global icons like Frankie Knuckles, whose legacy lives on at Smartbar club.
“But the city’s real magic often lies in its smaller, character-filled spots. From the intimate concerts at Schubas and The Hideout to crate-digging at Reckless Records, Chicago offers countless ways to discover its rich musical soul. Whether it’s blues, jazz, house, or something entirely new, Chicago’s soundtrack is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.”
2.Seattle
“Seattle was the epicentre of the music scene in the 1990s, giving rise to the grunge movement and bands like Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Pearl Jam, along with the legendary Sub Pop Records label. The city’s distinct ‘Seattle sound’ left an enduring legacy that you’ll feel the moment you land; there’s even a Sub Pop store at the airport. For music lovers, the Museum of Pop Culture is a must, with handwritten lyrics, personal photos, and iconic memorabilia on display. Fans can also catch live sessions and studio tours at KEXP, or step into venues like The Crocodile and The Showbox, where some of the biggest names once rehearsed and performed. Don’t miss Easy Street Records either, it’s a treasure trove for Pearl Jam enthusiasts and vinyl collectors in general.
And of course, Seattle is also the birthplace of guitar legend, Jimi Hendrix. His legacy continues to draw fans from all over the world, with more than 100,000 people visiting his memorial each year. No music pilgrimage is complete with a visit to his Capitol Hill statue where fans often leave flowers and letters.”
3.Detroit
“Detroit is more than just the Motor City; it’s the birthplace of Motown. When the auto industry boomed in the early 1900s, people from the Deep South flocked here, bringing musical flavours that shaped gospel, soul, rhythm, and blues. Out of that mix came Motown Records, the legendary label behind artists like Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, and The Supremes. A visit to the Motown Museum, famously known as Hitsville U.S.A., is an absolute must for anyone who wants to experience this iconic chapter of music history.
“Of course, Detroit’s story doesn’t end there. The city is also home to rap icon Eminem and the setting of the film 8 Mile, with its unforgettable rap battle scenes inspired by real freestyle contests at Detroit’s Hip Hop Shop. Music truly runs through the veins of this city, making it an unmissable destination for music fans.”
4.Nashville
“Nashville is the beating heart of country music, home to icons like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton, and a stage that continues to launch stars to this day. From the legendary Grand Ole Opry to the lively honky-tonks of Broadway, music spills out of every corner of the city. Whether you’re catching a show at the Opry or stumbling into an intimate songwriter session, Nashville offers a music experience like no other.
“The city also takes great pride in its heritage. A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame, needs to be part of any country music fan’s itinerary with a range of iconic memorabilia from country artists through the years – Taylor Swift fans will also be delighted to find the Taylor Swift Education Centre where they will spot the Banjo she played when she performed Mean at The Grammys. Don’t forget to stop off at the historic Ryman Auditorium, and the studios of Music Row to connect with the roots of America’s sound.”
5. Memphis
“Memphis is the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll and a city that lives and breathes music. Legendary artists like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and even modern stars like Justin Timberlake all trace their roots here. For a taste of the city’s music culture, head straight to Beale Street, an iconic stretch lined with some of the best live music venues in America, playing house to genres ranging from blues to rock to soul.
“No visit would be complete without a stop at Graceland, the former home of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll himself. Here, you can wander through Elvis’s famous estate and explore fascinating exhibitions dedicated to his legacy. Music fans should also make time for Sun Studio, the recording home of Elvis, Johnny Cash, B.B. King, and Tom Petty, where a tour brings you right into the heart of music history. And for soul enthusiasts, Soulsville is unmissable: the Stax Museum of American Soul Music celebrates legends like Aretha Franklin, Al Green, and Otis Redding, with more than 2,000 artefacts on display.
6.New Orleans
“When it comes to jazz and blues, all roads lead to New Orleans. Widely recognized as the birthplace of jazz in the early 20th century, music is woven into the city’s identity. From brass bands leading funeral processions to street performers filling every corner with rhythm, you’ll find history and culture in every note. For a lively night out, Bourbon Street delivers with up-and-coming artists and an electric atmosphere.
“Beyond the nightlife, the New Orleans Jazz Museum offers an inspiring look at the genre’s roots, while the Bywater neighbourhood provides a more laid-back vibe with colourful murals, local musicians, and quirky cafés.
To view more inspiration for US music holidays, visit the American Holidays website: https://www.americanholidays.