Southern Belle Riverboat
Experience Chattanooga's charm from the water aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat, offering scenic cruises with live music and classic Southern hospit...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & fall colors
Southern Belle Riverboat
Best Time
Cooler temps & fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Chattanooga's charm from the water aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat, offering scenic cruises with live music and classic Southern hospitality.
"A wonderful sunset river cruise with incredible views and live music!"
🎯 Fall Foliage Focus
Book a fall cruise for stunning colors! Travelers recommend later times for cooler weather and vibrant scenery.
🎶 Upper Deck Music
Enjoy live music on the upper deck, but be prepared for potential dampness if the weather is iffy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic River Views
Tennessee River
Experience Chattanooga from a unique perspective, gliding along the water with beautiful city and mountain vistas.
Live Music Ambiance
Upper Deck
Enjoy a mix of popular songs from onboard musicians, adding a lively soundtrack to your river journey.
Complimentary Moon Pies
Onboard
Savor a classic Southern treat with a complimentary Moon Pie, a sweet souvenir of your riverboat adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gift Shop Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Fall Foliage Focus
Book a fall cruise for stunning colors! Travelers recommend later times for cooler weather and vibrant scenery.
🎶 Upper Deck Music
Enjoy live music on the upper deck, but be prepared for potential dampness if the weather is iffy.
🥧 Moon Pie Variety
Complimentary Moon Pies are a treat, but you might only get one flavor. Buy extras if you love them!
☀️ Beat the Heat
The boat can get warm without A/C. Consider an evening cruise or cooler months for a more comfortable ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Fall Foliage Focus
Book a fall cruise for stunning colors! Travelers recommend later times for cooler weather and vibrant scenery.
🎶 Upper Deck Music
Enjoy live music on the upper deck, but be prepared for potential dampness if the weather is iffy.
🥧 Moon Pie Variety
Complimentary Moon Pies are a treat, but you might only get one flavor. Buy extras if you love them!
☀️ Beat the Heat
The boat can get warm without A/C. Consider an evening cruise or cooler months for a more comfortable ride.
♿ Accessibility Check
Inquire about accessibility if needed, as some areas like the upper deck might be challenging for those with mobility issues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally enjoy the scenic views and relaxing atmosphere of the Southern Belle Riverboat, often highlighting the unique perspective of Chattanooga from the water and the live music. While some find the dining experience enjoyable for special occasions, others note that the boat can get warm without air conditioning and suggest opting for cooler times or evening cruises.
"The first stop for the boat ride was the gift shop. They had us arrive way too early (which is smart on their part as they have tons of stuff for sale.) We were each given a mini moon pie as a gift . There were four of us and they gave us all the same flavor. That was a bummer. I would have been nice to get a variety. It may have spurred us to buy some if we liked them. We did not care for the blueberry she gave us.
No A/C on this boat and it was hot outside so it was warm inside with only some fans blowing. We had a family member in a wheelchair so we did not get to enjoy the musician playing on the upper deck. I should rephrase, some of the family did get to hear the musician as they did go up and check out the upper deck.
It is a nice cruise and if I did it again I would chose a later time where the colors of the trees were changing and the temperatures were cooler.
All of the workers were nice - there was a bartender on our level and the captain and another uniformed fella at the entrance as everyone was boarding."
Jenny Unternahrer
"A nice evening cruise down the river. Weather was a bit damp for a bit. Nice band on top deck but to wet too sit up there. Enjoyed sitting outside and watching the shore go by."
Dan n Deb Street
"What a wonderful sunset river cruise! We loved seeing the mountains from a new perspective and enjoyed the live music onboard—the musician on 8/1/25 played a great mix of songs that everyone appreciated. My family had a fantastic time and especially loved the complimentary moon pies; we even bought extra to bring home!"
Secondhand Sweethearts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Southern Belle Riverboat is located at 151 Riverfront Parkway, Chattanooga, TN 37402. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Many visitors find it convenient to stay in hotels near the riverfront, making it a short walk or drive to the boarding dock.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the riverfront. It's advisable to check for specific parking rates and availability closer to your visit date, as they can vary.
Absolutely! Many hotels in downtown Chattanooga are within walking distance of the Southern Belle Riverboat, offering a pleasant stroll along the riverfront.
Arriving about 30-60 minutes before your scheduled departure is recommended. This allows ample time to explore the gift shop and board without feeling rushed.
While specific bus routes may vary, the riverfront area is generally well-served by public transport in Chattanooga. Checking the local transit authority's website for routes and schedules is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased directly from the Southern Belle Riverboat website or at their on-site ticket office. Booking in advance is often recommended, especially for popular dinner cruises or during peak seasons.
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of cruise (sightseeing, lunch, dinner, sunset). It's best to check the official Southern Belle Riverboat website for the most current pricing information for specific tours.
Occasionally, coupons or special offers might be available. Checking travel deal websites or the riverboat's social media pages could reveal potential discounts.
The dress code is generally casual to smart casual. For dinner cruises, some guests opt for slightly dressier attire, but it's not strictly enforced. Comfortable clothing is key, especially if you plan to enjoy the upper deck.
Yes, Southern Belle Riverboat offers dinner cruises, which are a popular choice for a romantic evening or special celebration. These often include live entertainment and scenic views.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cruise durations vary, but sightseeing tours usually last around 1.5 to 2 hours. Lunch and dinner cruises may be longer to accommodate dining and entertainment.
Yes, live music is often featured on the upper deck, providing a pleasant atmosphere. The type of music can vary, but it's generally a mix of popular songs.
You'll enjoy picturesque views of the Chattanooga skyline, the Tennessee River, and surrounding mountains. Fall foliage cruises offer particularly stunning scenery. 
While some areas may be accessible, it's crucial to contact the riverboat directly to confirm specific accessibility details for wheelchairs, especially regarding upper decks or restrooms.
The gift shop is a popular stop, offering souvenirs and the famous Moon Pies. Some visitors note that arriving early allows more time to browse.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dinner cruises typically offer a selection of Southern-inspired dishes. While specific menus can change, expect options that reflect local cuisine.
It's advisable to contact the Southern Belle Riverboat in advance to inquire about dietary accommodations. They may be able to provide vegetarian, vegan, or other options with prior notice.
Yes, there is usually a bar onboard where you can purchase a variety of beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
Lunch is typically offered on specific lunch cruises. Sightseeing tours may not include meals, but dinner cruises certainly do.
Reviews on food quality are mixed. Some guests find the meals delicious and fitting for a special occasion, while others suggest it's more about the experience than gourmet dining.
📸 📸 Photography
The decks offer great vantage points for capturing the Chattanooga skyline and river views. The bow of the boat provides a classic riverboat photo opportunity.
Absolutely! Sunset cruises offer stunning opportunities for dramatic skies and beautiful lighting over the river and mountains.
Yes, you're welcome to take photos of the live musicians, but be mindful of their performance space and avoid flash photography that might disrupt them.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require special permission. Always check with the crew if you have specific needs.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both distant scenery and onboard details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the grandeur of the boat itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more comfortable experience with children, consider booking a daytime lunch cruise to avoid the heat of the afternoon sun and ensure everyone is well-fed. While the boat offers a unique perspective, be mindful of accessibility if you have very young children or strollers, and inquire about any specific areas that might be challenging.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
For an extra special touch, consider booking a cruise during a time with pleasant weather, perhaps in the fall when the foliage adds a picturesque backdrop. The relaxed pace of the cruise allows for quality time and conversation, making it a memorable date night or anniversary celebration.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture both wide landscapes and details. The decks provide excellent vantage points, and the boat's structure itself can be a compelling photographic element. Be sure to capture the city skyline from the water for a unique perspective.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of a Classic Riverboat Cruise
+1Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to see Chattanooga from a different perspective. The cruises provide panoramic views of the city skyline, the surrounding mountains, and the vibrant riverfront. This makes it an ideal activity for both tourists and locals looking to rediscover their city. The live music onboard further enhances the leisurely atmosphere, making it a perfect setting for a relaxed outing.
While the experience is generally positive, it's worth noting that the boat may not have modern climate control like air conditioning. This means that on particularly hot days, it can get warm inside. Visitors seeking the coolest experience often opt for evening cruises or visits during the fall when temperatures are more moderate and the foliage adds an extra layer of beauty.
Dining and Delights Onboard
A signature treat offered onboard is the complimentary Moon Pie. This classic Southern confection is a delightful touch that many passengers enjoy. However, some visitors have noted that only one flavor might be provided as a complimentary item, prompting them to purchase additional varieties if they wish to sample more.
For those with specific dietary needs, it's always recommended to contact the riverboat in advance. While they may be able to accommodate requests, confirming options for vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary restrictions beforehand ensures a smoother experience. The availability of a bar onboard also allows guests to purchase a range of beverages to complement their meal or simply enjoy during the cruise.
Capturing Memories: Photography Tips
Sunset cruises are particularly recommended for photographers. The golden hour light casts a beautiful glow over the landscape, creating dramatic and memorable shots. The combination of the river, the city lights beginning to twinkle, and the colorful sky can result in truly breathtaking images.
When planning your photo session, consider bringing a versatile camera with a good zoom lens. This will allow you to capture both the expansive river views and finer details. While personal photography is generally welcomed, always be respectful of other passengers and the performers if live music is present.
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