General Jackson Showboat
2812 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN, 37214
For views of the Nashville skyline, it's hard to beat a cruise down the Cumberland River aboard the General Jackson Showboat. This Victorian-style paddlewheel riverboat features a 2-story Victorian theater that hosts live performances and dinner shows. For a full Southern experience, the menu features dishes like bourbon-glazed chicken and hickory-smoked pork shoulder. It's a memorable way to combine sightseeing, entertainment, and authentic Nashville specialties.
The Basics
Visitors aboard the General Jackson Showboat have a choice of several performances, each served with a meal. The Taste of Tennessee day cruise features live music made famous in Nashville, while the evening Music City Nights recounts the story of Nashville’s famous nightlife through song, dance, and elaborate costumes.
Things to Know Before You Go
The General Jackson Showboat is a must for families and couples.
Book your lunch or dinner cruise before you go to avoid disappointment.
A round-trip cruise from Downtown Nashville and back is about 14 miles (23 kilometers).
Most of the General Jackson Showboat is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The departure point for showboat cruises is off the Opry Mills exit of Briley Parkway. Visitors can park for free in the Opry Mills parking lot.
When to Get There
The General Jackson Showboat hosts shows daily, with performances for lunch or dinner. Special Christmas performances kick off in mid-November and continue through the New Year.
History of the General Jackson Showboat
Named after the first steamboat that operated on the Cumberland River in 1818 (which was itself named after President Andrew Jackson), this Nashville showboat was launched in 1985 with a 36-foot paddle-wheel and a capacity for more than 1,000 passengers
Ways to explore
To enjoy a ride on the General Jackson Showboat, you'll book a package with either lunch or dinner included. In addition to a multicourse meal, these tour packages sometimes included round-trip transportation from your hotel and live entertainment during the cruise. On lunch cruises, the entertainment is usually a comedy show, whereas on dinner cruises, it's a live orchestra and dancers. The boat travels along the Cumberland River, and you can take advantage of both indoor and outdoor decks to enjoy the scenic views.
Accessibility
The boat is accessible to people using wheelchairs with ramps and accessible restrooms.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Camera (non-professional), small bag
What to wear
Layered clothing, flat footwear
Not allowed
Swimsuits, halter tops, outside food and drink, videography
Amenities
Restrooms, food, and drink options
Address
The General Jackson boards from the Cumberland River dock near Nashville’s Opryland resort area. Access is straightforward via car, rideshare, or hotel shuttle, and many downtown and resort-area hotels offer tours.
Driving
From downtown Nashville, get on I-40 east and take the exit toward Opryland. Follow signs to the boardwalk area and parking lot at the riverboat dock. For ease, a rideshare may be a better option.
Public transportation
If traveling by public transportation, take the No. 34 bus towards Opry Mills via Ellington. Get off at Opry Mills & General Jackson’s, then walk around a minute to General Jackson Showboat.
Best times to visit
The showboat usually has daytime and evening cruises. Opt for a morning cruise for a quieter experience.
Best days to visit
Book a cruise on Monday through Thursday for a quieter experience.
Best months to visit
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are great times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
Special events
The boat typically has a special Fourth of July trip where visitors can enjoy dinner and views of the fireworks.
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