8 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from Knoxville to Nashville 2024

Day 1 Knoxville, TN

Arrive atKnoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport and check into your hotel for an overnight stay. After breakfast, meet your Adventure Guides and fellow guests to begin your Great Smoky Mountains National Parks exploration.

Enjoy a 1-night stay,before beginning your Great Smoky Mountains National Parks exploration.After breakfast, meet your Adventure Guides and fellow guests and be treated to ascenic rideto Pigeon Forge.

Day 2 Pigeon Forge, TN

Travel from Knoxville to Pigeon Forge and take in the beauty of the foothills. Enjoy a special welcome reception at the hotel to get to know fellow explorers. Wrap up your evening with a dinner show at Dolly Parton's Stampede.

Experience this extraordinary show, which features friendly competition, horse riding stunts, special effects, elaborate musical productions, plus a delicious, four-course meal that ends with a decadent dessert. You may also enjoy an aerial performance featuring an original song written and recorded by Dolly Parton.

Day 3 Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Explore one of the most historic areas of the park, Cades Cove, in a caravan of Jeeps with individual guides who will provide narration along each bend. From the village to the loop that surrounds the cove, the beauty and serenity of this Appalachian paradise will be a lasting memory. Learn about the park, its history, and inhabitants at the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Cataract Falls is a short, gentle walk from the Visitor Center and provides an opportunity to casually explore nature.

Enjoy a relaxing journey through Cades Cove, an area where European settled in the early 1800s. As you make your way, view historic structures like restored churches, old grist mills, and pioneer log cabins, existing in harmony with a diversity of wildlife, from raccoons and white tail deer to black bears. Admire scenic views of the mountain tops, wildflower meadows, and rolling green landscape.

Visit this convenient resource for information about the area. Natural history exhibits on display feature the park's indigenous plants and animals and park rangers are available to answer any questions you may have. The onsite bookstore carries a wide array of books, guides, and other items to make your trip memorable.

Day 4 Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Above the alpine tree line sits one of the most picturesque locations in the Appalachian Mountains. On this second day in the park, visit Clingmans Dome,a man-made observation point with breathtaking views of Smoky Mountains and the surrounding area. Explore the road leading to Cherokee, North Carolina, lined with trees, roadside waterfalls, and scenic rivers.

Enjoy time in Cherokee and the Ocunaluftee Visitor Center to learn more about the people, history, culture, and wildlife of the area. Visit Gatlinburg, Tennessee which sits just outside the park, nestled in a narrow valley.

Venture to the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, also the highest point in Tennessee. At the observation tower on the summit, enjoy spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond.

With all its natural beauty, outdoor attractions, and amenities, this visitor center serves as the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Featured here is the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Qualla Arts and Crafts, Inc., and more.

At the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains lies charming and picturesque Gatlinburg. Guests come from around the world to explore this mountain town. Take time to explore downtown, shop for the perfect souvenir, or enjoy a local artisan's work.

Day 5 Chattanooga, TN

Enjoy the scenic ride from Pigeon Forge to Chattanooga where you will be greeted by our onboard team to begin your Tennessee River cruise.Enjoy a Welcome Reception on board as you begin your journey cruising along this breathtaking river with the majestic Appalachian Mountains serving as a beautiful backdrop.

As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

Day 6 Decatur, AL

Southern charm abounds in the Old Decatur Historic District. Admire houses built from the 1800s to the present, ranging in style from the French-influenced Empire period to Edwardian Cottage and beyond. On your way, peruse the many unique shops found along Bank Street and 2nd Avenue. Visit the fascinating area museums, including the Cook Museum of Natural Science, the Carnegie Visual Art Center, and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

The entire town of Mooresville is on the National Register of Historic Places and was the first town incorporated by the Alabama Territorial Legislature in 1818. As one of Alabama's most important and intact villages, it feels like a step back in time. Walk the small community to learn about its rich history, taste a scrumptious local treat, and enjoy a hands-on pressed-flower workshop at 1818 Farms.

Activity Level: Moderate|ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Enjoy this charming town at your leisure, with stops at:

• Carnegie Visual Arts Center – Beginning as Carnegie Library in 1904, this historic building was transformed into an arts center in 2003. Explore the permanent and temporary exhibits which feature a multitude of mediums.

• Cook Museum of Natural Science – This state-of-the-art museum features exhibits on zoology, geology, paleontology, and nature.

• Morgan County Archives – Home to historical rarities and nearby to local antique stores, yarn boutiques, and other shopping.

• Old State Bank and Union Depot – A historic Classic Revival-style building offering, this historic bank displays life in Decatur in the 1830s. The Decatur Union Depot is filled with working model trains and railway memorabilia.

Activity Level: Low |ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 7 Florence, AL

Florence is one of four cities that make up the "the Shoals," an area spanning two counties and separated by the Tennessee River. Explore the charming downtown, with locally owned stores featuring everything from handmade jewelry and bohemian chic fashion to antique collectables. Stop at the Wine Seller for a tasting or sip Java at the popular Bookmarks Coffee Shop in the public library. There are a variety of venues in which to enjoy live entertainment including the Shoals Theatre and FloBama Music Hall. Explore the home of W.C. Handy, known as the “Father of the Blues,” and visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Rosenbaum House, the only Wright building that is open to the public in the Southeast.

Sit at the piano where Lynyrd Skynyrd created "Free Bird." Feel the vibe of where Mick and the boys recorded "Brown Sugar." Stand in the room where Aretha found her voice. Or, walk through the room where Dylan recorded, "You Gotta Serve Somebody." Experience it all with stops at FAME Recording Studio, the original Muscle Shoals Sound Recording Studio, and Cypress Moon.

Activity Level: Moderate |ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Florence and The Shoals area have a rich Native American history. Explore the Florence Indian Mound and Museum and learn about the original inhabitants of this region. The most unique part of this experience lies nearby at the Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall that was a 30-year, hand-constructed tribute to honor Tom Hendrix’s great-great-grandmother's incredible journey from the Singing River (the Tennessee) to Oklahoma and back. This moving story is now told by Tom's son, who will join you for the full experience.

Activity Level: Low / ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partially

Enjoy this quaint town at your leisure, with stops at:

• Florence-Lauderdale Welcome Center - Learn about the rich history of The Shoals area. Representatives of Florence and The Shoals will be there to greet you, answer questions and may even have something special to welcome you to their community.

• The Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts - Discover and enjoy extraordinary works of art, explore new ideas, and cultivate new insights into local culture and the act of creation.

• Rosenbaum House – Explore one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most magnificent homes, declared by architecture critics to be one of the purest examples of Usonian prototype.

• The W.C. Handy Cabin, Museum, and Library - Dedicated to one of Florence's most famous sons known as the "Father of Blues," Handy was born in a log cabin at this site in 1873. View a collection of Handy's personal papers, artifacts, and other items he donated before his death in 1958.

• Downtown Shopping District - Explore downtown on your own. Take time for shopping, perusing, and perhaps stopping in at a local dining establishment.

Activity Level: Low / ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 8 Savannah, TN

Part of Hardin County, Savannah is the largest town on the Tennessee River, with a celebrated southern heritage. Home to the nation’s most well-preserved battlefield, Shiloh National Military Park, the town also has a rich Civil War history. Admire the city’s historic district featuring 42 unique, now privately- homes, including the Cherry Mansion which served as the headquarters of General Ulysses S. Grant at the time of the Battle of Shiloh. Other points of interest include the Savannah Theater, Savannah Cemetery, and recently revitalized Main Street.

This in-depth experience provides an opportunity to visit one of the most historic Civil War battle sites. Your ranger-guided exploration begins at Corinth Interpretative Center where you will learn about the history of the encampment and reconstruction after the war. After departing Corinth, savor a unique, authentic southern lunch at the famous Hagy's Catfish Hotel Restaurant. Next, visit Shiloh Military Park to learn more about the 1862 battle that was a turning point in the Civil War.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Spend time exploring the Catfish Capital of the World, Savannah, Tennessee. Your excursion begins at the Tennessee River Museum where history meets local cuisine. As you explore the river museum, you'll be treated to samples of hand-prepared local fare such as hushpuppies, catfish and paddlefish caviar. Afterwards, enjoy a short stroll through downtown with boutiques and special events.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Explore Shiloh National Military Park Congress, which was established on December 27, 1894, to commemorate the April 6-7, 1862, battle that raged around Shiloh Church and Pittsburg Landing. Resulting in more than 23,000 casualties, the battle was the largest engagement in the Mississippi Valley campaign during the Civil War. Today, visitors can learn about the history from National Park Ranger programs and explore the grounds of this hallowed site.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Day 9 Paducah, KY

Residing at the confluence of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River, Paducah will make you feel as if you stepped back in time. Founded by William Clark (of Lewis and Clark), Paducah is known as a National Heritage Destination with many talented culinary artists, painters, potters, and jewelers creating and displaying their works there. Also known as “Quilt City,” there is plenty to do in Paducah from shopping to visiting one the many fine museums, to participating in a hands-on creative workshop at a local art gallery. Be sure to visit the Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads.

Let our local guide take you through the quaint city of Paducah. This excursion has been carefully divided into three distinct sections to make sure you experience all that Paducah has to offer. First, explore the downtown as our local expert guide points out the areas’ many historical sites. Then, ride along the riverfront where you will witness more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting elements of Paducah’s past. Endat the National Quilt Museum, the world's largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

Activity Level: Low| ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Discover downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums, including the Paducah Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads. Stop at the River Discovery Center, which celebrates Paducah’s maritime legacy. Explore the Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Civil War Museum & Tilghman House, an 1852 Greek-revival home, which tells the story of Paducah’s influence during the Civil War. Take time for shopping and walking along the riverfront to view the many wall murals which chronicle Paducah’s past.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Paducah’s location at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers makes it unique. The city is home to some of the nation’s largest barge and towing companies. At theInland Waterways Museum,learn all about the inland waterways and the impact they have on the daily lives of local residents. You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits.

Activity Level: Low| ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 10 Cruising Lake Barkley and the Cumberland River

Admire the picturesque scenery of America's Heartland, including the Kentucky Lakes and rolling landscape of 170,000 acres of protected forest. Experience a relaxing day cruising Lake Barkley and admire panoramic views of the Cumberland River from the comfort of your private balcony.

There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

Day 11 Nashville, TN

From the legendary Grand Ole Opry to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville is the official headquarters of country music. The lively streets are lined with art galleries and unique shops that welcome you at every turn. Take time to explore historic downtown, including the famous Country Music Hall of Fame Museum and Honky Tonk Row. Consider touring The Hermitage, the home of President Andrew Jackson. In the evening, be treated to a show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Learn the fascinating story of the Ryman Auditorium. Constructed in 1880, Thomas G. Ryman built this theater, originally named The Union Gospel Tabernacle, for evangelist Reverend Sam Jones so that his inspiring words could be clearly heard by all. After Ryman’s passing in 1904, the theater name was changed to Ryman Auditorium to honor the man who created this historic landmark. Today, the Ryman Auditorium is associated with country music legends and inspiring artists striving to make a name for themselves.

Activity Level: Moderate| ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Enjoy live country music at its best with a visit to the Grand Ole Opry. The evening show will begin at 7:00 pm, featuring up and coming country artists, as well as musical groups that have been Opry Members for years.

Activity Level: Low| ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Start your excursion at the Johnny Cash Museum, ranked the #1 music museum in the world by Forbes, Conde' Naste, and National Geographic Traveler. Explore the largest and most comprehensive collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia in the world. Next, walk upstairs to The Patsy Cline Museum which celebrates the life of the legendary songstress who made an indelible mark on country music and remains one of the biggest names in country history. Featured are hundreds of never before seen artifacts, personal belongings, videos, and much more.

Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville, TN.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Enjoy a narrated exploration of historic downtown Nashville. Along the way, view Honky Tonk Row, Bicentennial Park, the State Capitol Building, and more. Stop at the Country Hall of Fame and Museum, home to a growing collection of over 2.5 million artifacts, including one-of-a-kind recordings, films, instruments, and more.

Discover the connections between country music's past and artists of today in the interactive gallery space. Witness everything from Hank William's cherished Martin guitar and Elvis Presley's custom Cadillac to outfits and instruments from all of your favorite artists.

Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in Nashville, TN.

Activity Level: Low| ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 12 Nashville, TN

Enjoy breakfast on board the ship, before beginning your journey home. Reflect upon your adventures and the new friends made along the way.

Why not stay an extra night or two to immerse yourself in the spirit of this vibrant city? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.