Memphis Riverboats
Cruise the mighty Mississippi on charming sternwheelers, offering sightseeing tours and lively dinner & music cruises.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dinner & music cruises
Memphis Riverboats
Best Time
Dinner & music cruises
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cruise the mighty Mississippi on charming sternwheelers, offering sightseeing tours and lively dinner & music cruises.
"The overall experience was dope, the food wasn't all that but the overall experience was dope."
Book Dinner Cruises Early
:ticket: Weekend dinner cruises sell out fast! Book in advance to guarantee your spot.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Avoid heels! The walk to the dock is steep and the boat decks require sturdy footwear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mississippi River Sunset Cruise
Mississippi River
Experience the magic of a Memphis sunset from the water. A truly unforgettable sight.
Dinner & Music Cruise
Wolf River Harbor
Enjoy a delicious meal and live entertainment while cruising the mighty Mississippi. Perfect for date nights!
Sightseeing Tour
Mississippi River
Learn about Memphis history and the significance of the Mississippi River on a guided tour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Dinner Cruises
Accessibility and Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Dinner Cruises Early
:ticket: Weekend dinner cruises sell out fast! Book in advance to guarantee your spot.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Avoid heels! The walk to the dock is steep and the boat decks require sturdy footwear.
Utilize the Shuttle
:bus: A shuttle is available from parking to the dock, especially helpful for those with mobility issues.
Gnats can be Pesky
:bug: On upper decks, especially at sunset, gnats can be present. Bring repellent if sensitive.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Dinner Cruises Early
:ticket: Weekend dinner cruises sell out fast! Book in advance to guarantee your spot.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Avoid heels! The walk to the dock is steep and the boat decks require sturdy footwear.
Utilize the Shuttle
:bus: A shuttle is available from parking to the dock, especially helpful for those with mobility issues.
Gnats can be Pesky
:bug: On upper decks, especially at sunset, gnats can be present. Bring repellent if sensitive.
Dress for the Weather
:cloud: It can be windy and cooler on the river, even on warm days. Bring a jacket!
Cashless Kiosk
:moneywithwings: The onboard kiosk for food/drinks is cashless.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Memphis Riverboats offers a generally enjoyable experience, with many praising the scenic views, live music, and good value, especially for dinner cruises. While the food is considered decent, some guests found certain items dry. The steep walk to the dock and occasional gnats are minor drawbacks, but the overall atmosphere and friendly staff make it a recommended activity for many.
"I read mixed reviews before booking this cruise. I'm glad I didn't pass on it. I had a great night out with my girlfriends. The boat is nice & spacious 3 floors. You have your picture taken when you get onboard & you can purchase them for $15.
The live band was great! It was a nice mixed crowd. The meal was surprisingly really good, however the piece of chicken was rather dry The pulled pork sandwich was 🔥. The meal was included in the tour & that included brownies for dessert. There is a bar for drinks that you have to pay for. I don't drink alcohol but my girls said they were nice & strong for the price.
Just a heads up being outside on the top decks you will have to deal with the pesky gnats. But being out there has the best photo shoot areas so definitely go out there for that"
Felicia Pearson
"This is a perfectly lovely River cruise experience. The staff were incredibly nice and efficient. The food is what you’d expect from buffet food, but they are very efficient moving folks through the food line. We did the night one and the lighted bridges we circled between were really pretty. But you are just circling around in the river for a couple of hours. Folks haven’t always loved the band in the reviews, but we thought they were great. We did sit up top, however because the dining room/enclosed area where they play does get really loud.
There’s a shuttle that will take you from parking at the nearby visitor’s center to the drop off point by the boat. We went with my parents—my dad has some mobility issues and walks with a cane—and used the shuttle. The driver was so nice and made sure everyone got out of the van safely. It’s an extremely steep hill that takes you from street level to the dock/pier, so definitely consider the shuttle. (This is not a paid review for the van, I promise.)"
Rebecca Stacy
"A nice trip out on the Mississipi river. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and very entertaining. We had booked this as part of the Memphis tour so unsure if you'd need to book in advance directly. The boat was pretty full on the middle deck but there was a good atmosphere. There is a small kiosk selling food and drink but not they don't take cash, I only brought a coke for my son and it wasn't overly expensive considering they have a captive audience. Would recommend taking a trip if you haven't before"
James Stapleton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Memphis Riverboats depart from the Wolf River Harbor. Parking is available nearby, and a shuttle service is provided to the dock, which is particularly helpful for those with mobility challenges due to a steep incline.
Yes, parking is available near the departure point. A shuttle service is often provided from the parking area to the dock, making access easier.
Rideshares and taxis can drop you off at the general vicinity of the departure point. Be prepared for a walk or to utilize the shuttle service to reach the actual dock.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly, the shuttle service from parking to the dock can assist guests with mobility issues. It's advisable to contact them in advance to discuss specific needs.
The shuttle service from the visitor center parking is highly recommended, especially if you have mobility concerns, as the walk to the dock involves a steep hill.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary by cruise type. Sightseeing tours are around $25, while dinner cruises start at approximately $50 per person. Booking in advance is recommended. +1
It is highly recommended, especially for dinner and music cruises on weekends, as they can sell out. Sightseeing tours may have more availability, but booking ahead ensures your spot. +1
Sightseeing cruises typically run daily from March to October. Dinner cruises usually operate on weekends (Thursday-Sunday). Check their official website for the most current schedule. +1
While it might be possible, it's best to book tickets in advance online to guarantee availability, especially for popular dinner cruises.
Special promotions and holiday offers are sometimes available. It's worth checking their website or social media for any current deals.
🎫 🚢 Onboard Experience
Sightseeing tours are typically around 2 hours long. Dinner cruises are also generally 2 hours in duration.
The dinner cruise offers a buffet-style meal that often includes options like pulled pork sandwiches and chicken, with brownies for dessert. Reviews suggest the food is generally good, though some items can be dry.
Yes, many cruises, especially the dinner and music cruises, feature live bands. Reviewers have generally found the bands to be great and add to the overall atmosphere. +1
Yes, there is a bar onboard where you can purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Note that these are an additional cost and the kiosk is cashless. +1
There is no strict dress code, but comfortable attire is recommended. Avoid high heels due to the terrain. Casual to smart-casual is generally appropriate.
Absolutely! The upper decks offer excellent vantage points for photos, especially during sunset. Be prepared for gnats if you're out on deck during certain times.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset cruises offer stunning light for photography, capturing the Memphis skyline and the Mississippi River. Early afternoon tours can also provide good light with fewer crowds.
The open-air upper decks provide panoramic views and are ideal for capturing the cityscape and river. The sternwheel at the back also makes for a classic riverboat photo.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. For professional shoots, it's advisable to contact Memphis Riverboats directly to inquire about their policies and any potential fees.
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography. Focus on capturing the scenery and your experience.
You can capture beautiful shots of the Memphis skyline, the Mississippi River, the historic riverboat itself, and the surrounding natural beauty. Sunset and twilight offer particularly dramatic lighting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For dinner cruises, while the food is generally good, it might be more geared towards adult palates. Bringing snacks for younger children might be a good idea. The open decks offer space for kids to move around a bit, but supervision is key. The shuttle service to the dock is also helpful for families managing strollers or little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
Be mindful that drinks and any purchased photos are additional costs. Bringing your own water bottle (if allowed) or opting for the sightseeing tour can help keep costs down. Look out for any special promotions or off-peak discounts that might be available.
❤️ Couples & Date Nights
Opt for a table with a view if possible, or plan to spend time on the upper decks enjoying the scenery. The gentle movement of the boat and the twinkling city lights add to the romantic ambiance. Booking in advance is crucial to ensure you get a spot for your special evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Mississippi River
+1Travelers often highlight the educational aspect of these cruises, with guides sharing insights into the river's ecology, history, and the landmarks visible from the water. This blend of scenic beauty and historical context makes for an engaging journey. Whether you opt for a daytime sightseeing tour or a sunset dinner cruise, the river itself is the star, providing a constantly changing backdrop to your adventure.
+1It's important to note that while the river is a constant, the experience can vary. The gentle rocking of the boat, the vastness of the river, and the fresh air contribute to a relaxing atmosphere. Many visitors find it a perfect way to unwind and see Memphis from a different angle, appreciating the sheer scale and power of this iconic American river.
Dinner & Music Cruises: A Memorable Evening
Reviewers often praise the live bands, noting that they contribute significantly to the enjoyable ambiance. While the food receives generally positive feedback, some mention that certain dishes can be dry, but the overall dining experience is considered good value for the price, especially when including dessert. The bar onboard offers a selection of drinks for purchase, which are noted as being reasonably priced for a captive audience.
Beyond the food and music, the visual aspect of a dinner cruise is a major draw. Cruising as the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle offers a romantic and picturesque setting. The enclosed dining area can get loud, so some guests prefer to enjoy the views from the open-air decks, weather permitting. It's an experience that combines dining, entertainment, and sightseeing into one memorable package.
Safety and Community Concerns
+1Travelers are advised to be aware of their surroundings and to report any concerns to the crew. The company's response to these concerns and their commitment to passenger well-being are important factors for potential visitors to consider. While the majority of reviews focus on the enjoyable aspects of the cruises, these safety discussions provide a more complete picture of the visitor experience.
+1It's always a good practice to check for recent news or reviews regarding safety protocols before booking, especially for large group events or late-night cruises. This proactive approach can help ensure a smoother and more secure experience for everyone onboard.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit