General Jackson Showboat
Cruise the Cumberland River on a majestic paddlewheel showboat, enjoying live musical performances and scenic Nashville views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Enjoy dinner and a show
General Jackson Showboat
Best Time
Enjoy dinner and a show
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cruise the Cumberland River on a majestic paddlewheel showboat, enjoying live musical performances and scenic Nashville views.
"The show was absolutely out of this world! Better than the performance at the actual Grand Ole Opry!!!!"
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and preferred seating by booking tickets in advance online .
🎶 Check Show Schedule
Confirm the show's theme and performers for your chosen cruise date .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Stage Performances
Theater
Experience top-tier musical talent with energetic shows that are often praised as a highlight of the cruise.
Cumberland River Views
Deck
Enjoy scenic vistas of the Nashville skyline and the riverbanks from the spacious decks of the showboat.
Southern-Style Dining
Dining Room
Savor a taste of Southern cuisine with buffet-style meals offered on select lunch and dinner cruises.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Best Seats
Check Cruise Schedules & Themes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and preferred seating by booking tickets in advance online.
🎶 Check Show Schedule
Confirm the show's theme and performers for your chosen cruise date.
🍽️ Consider Dinner Cruise
Many find the dinner cruise offers a complete experience with food and entertainment.
🚢 Dress Comfortably
Opt for comfortable attire suitable for a boat cruise and a live show.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and preferred seating by booking tickets in advance online.
🎶 Check Show Schedule
Confirm the show's theme and performers for your chosen cruise date.
🍽️ Consider Dinner Cruise
Many find the dinner cruise offers a complete experience with food and entertainment.
🚢 Dress Comfortably
Opt for comfortable attire suitable for a boat cruise and a live show.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera for stunning Nashville skyline shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the General Jackson Showboat for its exceptional live entertainment, with many calling the shows the highlight of their Nashville trip. The scenic river views and unique paddlewheel boat experience are also frequently mentioned positives. However, some guests have noted that the food service can be rushed, and occasional issues like engine problems or air conditioning can impact the overall comfort.
"I had no idea what to expect on this dinner cruise, but I was so, so pleased and thoroughly enjoyed myself! The food was great and also the entertainment. The staff was helpful and good at communicating about activities, times, etc. There was an abundance of food (contrary to some other reviews) and it was all well prepared, hot and fresh (nice fresh broccolini). The music was very good and tons of fun."
Moriah Jarrett
"The performance was absolutely out of this world! Better than the performance at the actual Grand Ole Opry!!!! The boat was having engine problems so it was unable to leave the dock but that wasn’t a huge issue, they offered full refunds and discounts if you decided to stay. The ac was also not working but once everyone was settled, it wasn’t horribly hot, just pretty warm. The food was rushed. They took my plate while I was in the middle of my last few bites. They tried to take my plate before I had even touched my dessert yet. There wasn’t enough time to go through the buffet a second time. They said “buffet closes at 8” at 8:03. So we are like “what??”. They then said it closes at 8:30 however they were already packing up the buffet so that was impossible. There was the option of ordering appetizers at an additional price. The performance was just over an hour and the best hour of my life. The view was great even from the dock! Every singer got their equal share of the spotlight and their costume changes were unbelievably fast!!!! Each of the outfits were absolutely stunning. Every singer was equally powerful and talented, a wonderful set of performers."
Jasmine Lewis
"5 stars just don’t do this show justice!
If you have the time, you have to get to this show! It was truly the highlight of our entire stay in Nashville!
The food, the music and the atmosphere were all excellent, and EVERYONE on the boat was so friendly!
Well come back and do this show every time!"
Kevin Piatt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The General Jackson Showboat is located near the Opry Mills Mall in Nashville. Parking is available nearby, and it's accessible by car or rideshare services. Many visitors arrive directly at the dock before their scheduled cruise time.
Yes, there is parking available near the General Jackson Showboat, typically associated with the Opry Mills Mall area. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current parking information and any associated fees.
While public transportation options exist in Nashville, direct routes to the showboat's dock might be limited. Rideshare services or taxis are often a more convenient option for reaching the General Jackson Showboat directly.
Boarding typically begins about 30-45 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Have your tickets ready, and staff will guide you to the correct areas for seating and amenities.
The General Jackson Showboat is generally accessible, but it's always best to contact them directly to confirm specific accessibility features and arrangements for guests with mobility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase General Jackson Showboat tickets online through their official website or authorized third-party vendors.
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of cruise (lunch, dinner, show-only) and seating options. Prices can range from around $70 to over $150 per person.
Discounts may be available for groups, children, or during special promotions. It's worth checking the official website or contacting their sales department for any available General Jackson Showboat discount tickets.
Tickets typically include the cruise, a live stage show, and sometimes a meal (for lunch or dinner cruises). Captain's seat tickets might offer priority seating and a complimentary drink.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day of the cruise, it's not recommended as they often sell out, especially for popular evening shows. Booking in advance is the safest bet.
🎫 🚢 Onboard Experience
The General Jackson Showboat features a variety of live musical performances, often with a focus on country, pop, and nostalgic themes like 'Tennessee Legends'. The talent is frequently praised.
The General Jackson Showboat offers Southern-style cuisine, typically served buffet-style for lunch and dinner cruises. Reviews on the food are mixed, with some finding it abundant and well-prepared,
while others describe it as rushed or underwhelming.
Cruises typically last around three hours, offering ample time for dining, enjoying the views, and experiencing the live entertainment.
Seating options can vary, with standard seating and premium options like 'Captain's Seats' available, which may include priority seating and a complimentary drink.
Yes, guests are encouraged to explore the different decks of the General Jackson Showboat, including the observation decks, to enjoy the river views and the unique atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation decks offer fantastic opportunities to photograph the Nashville skyline.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted during performances to avoid distracting the performers. It's best to check the specific guidelines onboard.
Daytime cruises offer natural light for clear shots of the river and city. Evening cruises provide a more atmospheric setting with stage lighting during shows and city lights reflecting on the water.
Yes, drone usage is typically prohibited on and around the General Jackson Showboat due to safety regulations and to avoid disturbing other passengers and performers.
While you can capture the energy of the show, professional photography of performers might be restricted. Focus on candid shots and the overall atmosphere rather than trying to get perfect stage shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a midday lunch cruise for a shorter duration and daytime views of the Cumberland River and Nashville skyline.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
The performances are often described as high-quality and engaging, making for a memorable evening.Opting for a dinner cruise allows you to enjoy a meal together before or during the show, enhancing the overall experience. The opportunity to see the Nashville skyline illuminated at night adds to the romantic atmosphere. Booking in advance is recommended to secure good seats for the show.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for lunch cruises, which are typically less expensive than dinner cruises and still provide the core experience of the show and river views.Keep an eye out for any potential discounts or promotions that might be available. Sometimes, booking directly through the official website or looking for package deals can offer savings. While some reviews mention the food being rushed,
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Showboat Experience: More Than Just a Cruise
The talent on board is frequently highlighted, with performers receiving high praise for their skills and energy.Beyond the performances, the scenic views of the Nashville skyline from the boat's decks are a significant draw.
While the entertainment and views are consistently lauded, the dining experience can be a mixed bag according to reviews. Some guests rave about the abundance and quality of the food, describing it as well-prepared and fresh.
Navigating the General Jackson: Tips for a Smooth Voyage
Onboard, the boarding process typically begins about 30-45 minutes before departure. Have your tickets ready, and the friendly staff will guide you. While the food receives mixed reviews, with some finding it plentiful and delicious and others experiencing rushed service,
For photography enthusiasts, the decks offer excellent vantage points for capturing the Nashville skyline.
+1 Remember to be mindful of performance times and any restrictions on flash photography. The atmosphere is generally festive and engaging, making it a great option for couples, families, or groups looking for a unique Nashville activity.
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