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

Day 1 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. After a day of exploring, settle into your pre-cruise hotel and relax.

Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with aHotel Stay where you can enjoy the city at your leisure, before beginning your cruise.

On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

Enjoy a 1-night stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. Be treated to an evening performance at the Grand Ole Opry. The morning of embarkation, meet in the hotel lobby for transportation to the ship with concierge luggage service provided.

Day 2 Afternoon of Cruising

Board your ship and enjoy a leisurely day cruising along the idyllic landscapes of the Cumberland River. As you begin your amazing journey, relax on your private stateroom balcony and admire the beautiful views that stretch out before you. Get to know fellow guests in one of the lounges or at the evening cocktail hour.

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 3 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 4 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 5 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 6 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 7 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 8 Chattanooga, TN

Nestled between the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, along the scenic Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of America's most splendid cities. Explore this amazing destinationwhich features breathtaking scenic beauty, as well as a revitalized riverfront ornamented withparks, restaurants,shops, and riverboats.

Visit The Battles for Chattanooga, a spectacular three-dimensional electronic battle map representation of Chattanooga’s Battle Above the Clouds and Sherman’s assault on Missionary Ridge before his historic march to the sea. Explore the attached museum which features a weapon and book collection from the Civil War. Take a ride on the Incline Railway, a funicular railway system that is over 125 years old.

Next, travel to the nearby Point Park with acres of impressive overlooks, monuments, and cannon positions, interpreting the Battle of Lookout Mountain, as well as the other Battles for Chattanooga. Discover Rock City, located atop Lookout Mountain, where you can stand in one place and see seven states. Explore this true marvel of nature, with massive ancient rock formations, gardens of over 400 native plant species, and breathtaking panoramic views. Take an unforgettable journey along the Enchanted Trail, a woodland path where each step reveals the wonders of nature. Experience the magic of Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village, visit one of the uniquegift shops, and dine at the Big Rock Grill.

Activity Level: Moderate|ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partially

From scents to spirits, you will enjoy creating your own candle to take home. Next, learn how to craft a special cocktail (or mocktail) from a master mixologist. In between these hands-on experiences, you will walk a short distance as your guide provides an engaging narrative about Chattanooga.

Activity Level: Moderate|ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Discover Lookout Mountain in one of the most adventurous ways possible. Explore forest trails and driver through acres of pristine wilderness on a Swincar e-Spider, an innovative electric off-road all-terrain vehicle. Because Swincars make no noise, you are likely to spot deer, turtles, turkey and other exotic creatures in their natural habitat.

Activity Level: High|ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Lying near the bank of the river, the Tennessee Aquarium is nationally renowned for its design, exhibits, and programs. Trace the path of water from the mountains to the sea, come face-to-face with the fascinating native animals of the region, and discover the rich biodiversity of the Southeast through engaging exhibits.

Activity Level: Low|ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Chattanooga has become a culinary destination. Join this dining experience as you visit four fabulous restaurants, which feature American, Italian, French, and Spanish cuisine. Enjoy specially prepared masterpieces as you interact with the chef at each location. We will take you to the first location and from there, you will take short walks from one restaurant to another.

Activity Level: Moderate

Day 9 Travel to Pigeon Forge, TN

Enjoy breakfast, disembark the ship and travel to Pigeon Forge, TN to begin your Great Smoky Mountain National Park exploration. In the evening, enjoy a special welcome dinner and show at Dolly Parton's Stampede while getting to know your Adventure Guides and fellow explorers.

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 10 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 11 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 12 Knoxville, TN

After breakfast, we will transfer you to Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport to begin your journey home. Reflect on the friends and memories you have made on this incredible adventure.