8 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from Chattanooga to Nashville 2026

Day 1 Chattanooga, TN

Included with your cruise is a 1-night Hotel Stay. Upon your arrival, you’ll get settled into your hotel to enjoy this city a day before you board a new, modern riverboat.

The city is watched over by the towering Lookout Mountain, a site of the famed "Battle Above the Clouds" during the Civil War, offering panoramic views and tales of strife and strategy. Downtown, the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, one of the world's longest pedestrian bridges, arches over the river, while Coolidge Park, with its classic carousel and many green spaces invites you to enjoy the river's calming flow.

Day 2 Cruising the Tennessee River

Step aboard and settle in for a calm day as you cruise from Chattanooga through the Appalachian Mountains, following the gentle curves of the river framed by grand scenery. As your journey unfolds, delight in the onboard musicians who fill the air with tunes as timeless as the river itself. Join us for complimentary drinks during our nightly cocktail hours to engage with fellow passengers and our friendly crew, each sharing stories and smiles, enhancing the warmth of your river voyage.

Day 3 Decatur, AL

Unfolding along the banks of the Tennessee River and serving as a vital hub of activity and culture is the unique port of Decatur. The historic Old State Bank, with its dignified facade, stands as a testament to Alabama’s early financial endeavors and its perseverance through economic shifts and the Civil War. Nearby, the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge provides a sanctuary for an array of migratory birds. Delano Park, one of the city’s oldest public spaces, features sprawling green lawns and ancient oaks, offering a peaceful retreat.

Day 4 Florence, AL

This is a city that blends its historical roots with a lively cultural scene. The iconic Renaissance Tower frames the city, its silhouette prominent against the skyline. The city is renowned for housing the Rosenbaum House, the only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structure in Alabama, showcasing exceptional Usonian architecture set against a backdrop of native landscapes. Closer to the river, Wilson Park offers serene views and a vintage carousel, embodying the city’s dedication to preserving green spaces amidst its urban expansion.

Day 5 Savannah, TN

On the eastern shores of the Tennessee River, Savannah, resonates with historical significance and captivating scenery. Shiloh National Military Park, the site of a pivotal 1862 Civil War battle, invites exploration with its vivid reenactments and well-preserved trails, painting a vivid tableau of American history. At the heart of Savannah, the Tennessee River Museum offers an engaging chronicle of the river's integral role in shaping regional history, from ancient Native American settlements to the golden age of steamboats.

Day 6 Paducah, KY

Standing proudly at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, Paducah is a crossroads of waterways that have shaped its cultural and economic destiny. At the heart of downtown, the National Quilt Museum celebrates Paducah's designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, showcasing intricate quilts that draw visitors from around the globe.

Day 7 Cruising Lake Barkley & Cumberland River

Today, cruise through America's Heartland, where the vast Kentucky Lakes and the sprawling 170,000 acres of protected forests are unobstructed to you. Spend a calm day cruising on Lake Barkley, where you can experience expansive views of the Cumberland River from your private balcony or grab a seat and lounge on the open sun deck. Onboard, listen to engaging guest speakers who bring the river to life with stories of history and ecology of the region, or join in a variety of games and activities.

Day 8 Nashville, TN

Step into the rhythmic heart of Nashville, Tennessee, where every street corner hums with the legacy of musical icons. At the historic Ryman Auditorium, often considered the sacred hall of country music, you can almost hear the twang of Dolly Parton and Hank Williams as you stand in the very spots they once performed. Join us for an unforgettable show at the storied Grand Ole Opry. Nashville is more than a city; it’s a living museum of music history, where every melody tells a story, and every building holds a beat.

Day 9 Nashville, TN

After breakfast onboard the ship, take all you learned along the Tennessee River with you. Reflect on the melodies that filled your days, the stories shared, and the friendships made in this city of music. As you prepare to journey home, carry with you the vibrant memories of these unique ports of call, looking forward to the next time you can return to its welcoming rhythm.