Great Smoky Mountains

Upon arrival at Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport, you will be welcomed by your Adventure Guides to begin your National Park exploration. Enjoy a special welcome dinner and show at Dolly Parton's Stampede while getting to know your Adventure Guides and fellow explorers.

Knoxville is a city on the Tennessee River in eastern Tennessee. Downtown, the Market Square district has 19th-century buildings with shops and restaurants. The Museum of East Tennessee History has interactive exhibits plus regional art, textiles and Civil War artifacts. James White’s Fort, built by the Revolutionary War captain, includes the reconstructed 1786 log cabin that was Knoxville’s first permanent building.

Go on a journey with us as we wind through one of the most historic areas of the park, Cades Cove. From the village to the loop that surrounds the cove, the beauty and serenity of this Appalachian paradise will be a lasting memory. Flowers, trees, and wildlife paint a picture that our senses can fully enjoy. Learn about the park, its history and inhabitants at the Sugarlands Visitor Center as narrated by park rangers.

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.

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.

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.

Decatur is the largest city and county seat of Morgan County in the U.S. state of Alabama. The city, nicknamed "The River City", is located in Northern Alabama on the banks of Wheeler Lake, along the Tennessee River.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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