12 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from Knoxville to Nashville 2026

Day 1 Knoxville, TN

Land at Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport and settle into your hotel for an overnight stay. After breakfast, meet your guides and fellow travelers to start your journey through the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks. Knoxville, a city that combines Southern charm with a vibrant arts scene, offers visitors a unique blend of historic architecture and modern innovation. From its lively downtown to scenic river views, Knoxville is the perfect gateway to your national park adventure.

Day 2 Pigeon Forge, TN

Travel from Knoxville to Pigeon Forge, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Smokies. Upon your arrival, settle into your hotel. Pigeon Forge, known for its quirky attractions, including whimsical museums like the Titanic Museum Attraction, shaped like the famous ship, and WonderWorks, an upside-down building filled with interactive exhibits. The town also hosts Dollywood, the theme park inspired by Dolly Parton herself. Complete with rides, shows, and a glimpse into local culture. Finish your evening with a spectacular dinner show at Dolly Parton's Stampede, where skilled horseback riders and dazzling effects bring stories to life in an arena, all while enjoying a true Southern dinner.

Day 3 Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Journey through the trails of Cades Cove in a caravan of Jeeps, guided by narrators who will share the history behind each twist in the path. This venture proves the profound beauty and calming presence of this Appalachian retreat.

Continue your exploration at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you'll gather insights into the park's detailed history and its diverse ecological community. A short, easy walk from the Visitor Center brings you to Cataract Falls, where water ribbons down the mountainside.

Day 4 Great Smoky Mountain National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains stretch across the horizon, their peaks shrouded in a misty veil that gives the range its name. The dense forests blanket rolling hills in shades of emerald and gold, interspersed with crystal-clear streams that move through the valleys.

Above the alpine tree line, Clingmans Dome offers one of the most captivating reaching views in the Appalachian Mountains. On your second day in the park, ascend to this man-made observation point for sweeping views of the Smoky Mountains and the expansive landscape beyond.

Visit nearby Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a charming town hiding in a narrow valley just outside the park, that captures all the quirky charm you’ve come to know along the way.

Day 5 Chattanooga, TN

Enjoy the scenic journey from Pigeon Forge to Chattanooga, where our welcoming onboard team will greet you as you embark on your Tennessee River cruise. Enjoy a Welcome Reception onboard your vessel as you prepare to set sail.

The city's history is highlighted by its key role during the Civil War, particularly in the Battle of Chattanooga, which proved to be a turning point in the conflict. Notably, Lookout Mountain is where visitors can explore caves and enjoy sweeping views from the famous "Rock City."

Day 6 Decatur, AL

The Old Decatur Historic District exudes the timeless elegance of the South, with streets lined by architectural gems that trace their origins back to the 1800s. Walk through this charming quarter and admire homes that display a spectrum of styles, from the French nuances of the Empire period to the quaint simplicity of Edwardian Cottages. Take time to browse the boutiques and artisan shops along Bank Street and 2nd Avenue.

Further enrich your experience by visiting Decatur’s celebrated museums. The Cook Museum of Natural Science offers a close-up look at the intricacies of our natural environment, while the Carnegie Visual Art Center showcases the creative spirit through rotating exhibitions of fine art. Not far from these cultural treasures, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center awaits with its expansive exhibits on space exploration, connecting the wonders of the universe to the human spirit of inquiry.

Day 7 Florence, AL

Florence, one of the four cities comprising "the Shoals," stretches across two counties, neatly divided by the Tennessee River. Its downtown, a string of locally owned shops showcasing everything from handcrafted jewelry to eclectic antique collectibles.

Visit the residence of W.C. Handy, revered as the “Father of the Blues,” to experience a piece of musical history. Also, explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House, an architectural gem, and the only Wright structure in the Southeast open to the public, offering a fascinating window into innovative design.

Day 8 Savannah, TN

Located in Hardin County, Savannah claims the title of the largest town on the Tennessee River and is a hotspot of Southern charm. It's home to the well-kept Shiloh National Military Park, a landmark for Civil War history. Visit the historic district and check out the 42 unique homes, including the Cherry Mansion, which was once General Ulysses S. Grant’s command post during the Battle of Shiloh.

Join us on our Taste of Savannah shuttle. Beginning at the Tennessee River Museum, located in downtown Savannah, this museum offers exhibits on the history and culture of the Tennessee River Valley, including Native American artifacts, Civil War relics, and displays on river life. As you learn more about the waters you’re traveling, you'll be treated to samples of hand-prepared local fare such as hushpuppies, catfish, and paddlefish caviar. You are in the Catfish Capital of the World after all.

Day 9 Paducah, KY

At the meeting point of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River, Paducah has all the nostalgic charm that feels like a journey back in time. Founded by William Clark of Lewis and Clark, Paducah holds the title of a National Heritage Destination, boasting a thriving community of culinary artisans, painters, potters, and jewelers showcasing their craft. Dubbed "Quilt City," this port city is home to the National Quilt Museum, where intricate quilts are persevered and displayed.

Don't miss the Railroad Museum, sharing relics and memorabilia from America's storied railroad past. Paducah is a haven for history enthusiasts, art aficionados, and anyone seeking a slice of Americana.

Day 10 Cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River

Spend a day on the river watching the scenery of America's Heartland sail by; where the calm waters shimmer and 170,000 acres of protected forest become your backdrop for the day. Enjoy a leisurely day cruising Lake Barkley, where you can admire sweeping views of the Cumberland River from the comfort of your own private balcony. Onboard, our crew has planned a full day of activities. You’re welcome to just take it easy up on the sun deck and watch the world go by as well.

Day 11 Nashville, TN

Nashville, the indisputable capital of country music, buzzes with excitement from the iconic Bluebird Cafe to the revered Ryman Auditorium. Its lively streets are adorned with art galleries and unique shops, inviting exploration at every corner. Let Nashville sing to you as music pours from the balconies throughout the city. You can’t skip a visit into the heart of historic downtown, where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum and Honky Tonk Row waiting to be explored. Don't miss the opportunity to visit The Hermitage, once home to President Andrew Jackson, for a glimpse into the city's fascinating past. And as the sun sets, let us treat you to an unforgettable show at the incomparable Grand Ole Opry.

Day 12 Nashville, TN

End your voyage with one last breakfast onboard. Should you choose to stay, there’s so much left to see so take your time to see as much as you can. If you’re heading home, let the sounds of the city take you there.