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

Day 1 Memphis, TN

This city, where the soul of music meets the rhythm of history, is the birthplace of blues, a genre that took root in the early 20th century in the bustling streets of Beale Street, now a neon-lit hotspot brimming with live music and buzzing nightlife. This city also launched the careers of music legends like B.B. King and Elvis Presley, transforming the global music scene forever. You can’t forget about their world-famous barbecue, where smoky, slow-cooked pork ribs and pulled pork sandwiches drenched in rich, spicy sauces reign supreme.

Day 2 Day of River Cruising

Listen to the music of the Mississippi as you make your way through its bends. You ship awaits at Beale Street Landing, located within a recently updated urban park. This area, rejuvenated with fresh landscaping and contemporary art installations, offers a striking contrast to the flowing waters of the Mississippi. As you glide along the river, the Memphis skyline unfolds—a dramatic backdrop of both historic facades and sleek modern architecture mirrored beautifully in the river’s surface. Onboard, let the energetic performances of local musicians become the background music for your afternoon as you cruise down the iconic Mississippi.

Day 3 Cruising the Ohio River

The day is yours. So, go ahead, hit snooze and stay in the comfort of your cozy bed, or wake early to witness the morning from your private veranda. From here, you can indulge in a good book, appreciate the quiet views, or watch as the ship navigates through the Ohio River's most recent lock and dam, a project completed in 2018 after two decades of meticulous work.

Experience the breathtaking scene where the Ohio River flows into the vast Mississippi, a striking display of nature's power. Form new connections onboard and taste the freshest flavors from the river with a curated menu. Your day is filled with excitement: participate in fun onboard activities, absorb informative lectures on the local area, and revel in live shows that celebrate the diverse musical culture of the region.

Day 4 Paducah, KY

Home to the renowned National Quilt Museum, Paducah is where dazzling fabric artworks captivate visitors from around the world. As a proud UNESCO Creative City, downtown Paducah is a hive of artistic activity, filled with galleries, stunning wall murals, and lively artisan workshops. The city's historical significance shines through its beautifully maintained 19th-century buildings and its once-thriving riverfront, a testament to its past as a vital commercial hub. Each spring, Paducah transforms into a floral wonderland during the Dogwood Trail Celebration as the streets light up with the blooms of dogwood trees.

Day 5 Cruising Lake Barkley & Cumberland River

Cruising along Lake Barkley on the Cumberland River promises a day brimming with unforgettable moments. The construction of the Barkley Lock and Dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1966 transformed the river, creating an expansive waterway with over 1,000 miles of winding shoreline dotted with serene coves.

From the comfort of your room, take in the breathtaking views through large windows or from your own private balcony, where the landscape of craggy limestone cliffs continuously shifts before your eyes. Sandwiched between Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake to the west lies the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, a sprawling 170,000-acre oasis featuring forests, wetlands, and vast open spaces where elk and bison roam free.

Day 6 Dover, TN

This quaint town is drenched in American history, offering a spirited blend of past and present. It's famous for the Battle of Fort Donelson in 1862, where Ulysses S. Grant secured a critical victory that boosted his military career. Today, the Fort Donelson National Battlefield stands as a captivating monument, offering interactive tours and impressive views of the Cumberland River, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore pivotal moments in history.

Day 7 Clarksville, TN

Your vessel pulls into port at the enchanting riverfront park of Clarksville, located along the meandering Cumberland River. This vibrant town bears the moniker of General George Rogers Clark, renowned for his gallantry in the frontier battles and as the illustrious sibling of William Clark from the famed Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Stroll along the narrow waterfront trail, to trace its past from a bustling tobacco hub to a dynamic modern center, where echoes of frontier bravery resonate in its very streets. Behold architectural marvels like the awe-inspiring 1898 U.S. Post Office and Customs House, standing tall as proud sentinels of the city's past. Listen intently as local guides retell history’s anecdotes, painting vivid portraits of Clarksville's pivotal role as a bustling tobacco hub throughout the tumultuous 19th century.

Day 8 Nashville, TN

From the hallowed halls of the legendary Ryman Auditorium to the illustrious galleries of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville proudly showcases its rich musical influence in every square inch. As you walk its lively streets, adorned with colorful murals and bustling with activity, you'll find yourself drawn into a world where creativity knows no bounds. Explore hidden gems tucked away in historic neighborhoods, where local artisans create unique works of art and the city’s signature hot chicken spices things up.

Amidst the lively chatter and laughter, the soulful strains of aspiring musicians spill out from tiered pubs and intimate venues, adding to the city's unmistakable charm. And when the sun sets, embark on a journey to the Grand Ole Opry, the crown jewel of Nashville's entertainment scene, where the spirit of country music comes alive in a spectacular showcase of talent and tradition.

Day 9 Nashville, TN

You’ll end your Nashville river cruise back again in the Music City, but of course there’s so much to see if you’re not ready to hit pause on your adventure just yet. Spend the day at the Country Music Hall of Fame, the charming Patsy Cline Museum, or the legendary Johnny Cash Museum to get up close and personal with the key players in the country music scene.

Of course, there’s more to Nashville than the sounds that ring through its street. Visit President Andrew Jackson's captivating Hermitage estate or awe at the intricate architecture of the Tennessee State Capitol. Whether you choose to stay or head back home, American Cruise Lines encourages you take the sounds of the Mississippi with you.