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What To Do At Nashville's Gaylord Opryland Resort

This place has it all.

Courtesy of Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

I knew that a quick getaway with my seven-year-old son Theo would make him happy, but I would have never expected his reaction. “It’s just so nice!” he sobbed, as I showed him the Gaylord Opryland ’s website and told him we’d be staying there for a night. As we looked through the images of the enormous resort—the indoor river, the shops made to look like the French Quarter, the sky-high atrium filled with trees and plants, the sparkling chandeliers, the 12 restaurants, the two arcades, the indoor pool, the waterfalls and fountain shows set to lights, and most importantly, Soundwaves, the four-acre indoor-outdoor waterpark—the happy tears just kept coming. 

When we arrived at the Nashville resort a few weeks later, he was too blown away to cry. And I was pretty stunned myself. The map of the property reminded me of an airport terminal; each of the five sections of the building were named and color coded, a necessity when you’re navigating a nine acres. (The hotel also has its own app, which includes a map.) As we passed through the bustling lobby into the vast atrium with its glass ceiling and lush foliage, it felt like entering the world’s biggest greenhouse—that also happened to contain a small city.  

Courtesy of Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

Theo and I spent several hours wandering around, taking it all in, and yes, getting lost a few times. We poked around in the shops, which ranged from airport-style sundries to clothing and a whole store of toys for kids. (Prepare to be begged for things.) 

We took a boat ride on the river winding through the hotel, and our guide told us that there were 30,000 people in the building that day—mostly due to a cheerleading convention at the resort’s convention center. The number made my jaw drop, mostly because the property didn’t look nearly that full—it was full of visitors, families mostly, but rarely felt crowded.

From the water, we admired the giant trees, colorful orchids, and gigantic chandeliers, then we hopped off the boat to have dinner with a fountain view at Cascades American Cafe. (After he nixed Italian, Mexican, burgers, and many, many other options.) In our little corner of the restaurant, it almost felt like we had a magical jungle to ourselves. “This is amazing,” Theo sighed over his chicken fingers and fries. I had to agree. And my chicken lettuce wraps weren’t bad either. As the sun went down, the entire building became aglow with colorful light installations and it felt entirely different. We walked another lap around the hotel to admire all of the night time decorations and eventually found our way back to our room.

History of Gaylord Opryland

Originally built in 1977, Gaylord Opryland was a much smaller hotel (around 500 rooms) adjacent to the Grand Ole Opry and Opryland USA, a music-themed amusement park. The park closed in the late 90s, but Gaylord Opryland just kept growing, becoming a destination in its own right and eventually the largest non-casino hotel in the United States. In 2018, SoundWaves , a four acre, three-level water park attached to the hotel, opened. 

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

Experience SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland

SoundWaves was the main reason we came to Gaylord Opryland, and anticipation was high as we got our wristbands the next day. Because we visited over spring break, the seasonal outdoor portion was closed so we only had access to the climate controlled indoor side of the park, but there was still plenty to do. Theo and I careened down three water slides, then he and a newly-found friend his age (see ya, Mom!) explored the rest of the space while I followed nearby, Secret Service-style. There was a fast river and a lazy river, a huge playspace, an obstacle course, a ride where you could surf real waves, and lots of space for younger kids to splash around, among other features. When I was able to drag Theo away for lunch, there were plenty of options at the on-site restaurant, ranging from quesadillas to a farro salad. The outdoor section of the park, which reopens on May 19 for the summer, has several water slides for thrill-seekers (i.e: not me) and other things to experience, including a large wave pool.

Available only to hotel guests, SoundWaves admission isn’t included with the price of a room, but there are package rates available, and a pass is good for an entire day—and you will want to spend an entire day there. There is also an arcade below SoundWaves (that is open to anyone) that is full of shiny new games, as well as some arcade classics.

If you don’t want to pay for a hotel room, you can still experience Gaylord Opryland—most of the property, including the restaurants, is open to the public and you could spend a fun day or afternoon walking around. (It’s all indoors, which means plenty of air-conditioning in the dead of summer!)

An overnight trip was just the right amount of time at Gaylord Opryland for me—although Theo could have stayed indefinitely. After we dried off from the water park and collected our things to go home, the tears started up again. “Why can’t we just live here?” he asked. We consoled ourselves with ice cream in the faux French Quarter and promised to come back—although I know it won’t be quite the same. It’s a magical place, but he’s also at a magical age to enjoy it.

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Delta Boat Ride at the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, TN

There are plenty of beautiful sights to see in Nashville, but one of the msot relaxing and memorable has to be the indoor water garden at the GaylorD Oprland Resort.

Step aboard and gently wind your way through a lush four and a half acre indoor garden while a guide offers unique facts about the Delta's plants and fish. You'll be amazed by breathtaking beauty of the plants as you float around the indoor river.

Take a Delta River Flatboat down the scenic indoor river of the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. A fleet of five Mississippi-style flatboats carries 25 passengers each on leisurely trips of about 15 minutes through the beautiful lush indoor gardens of the beautiful resort.

You'll also see and learn about the hotel's Delta Island that features an 85-foot fountain, three waterfalls, and numerous shops and restaurants. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of Danny, an 80 pound catfish, in the Delta River.

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A peaceful moment

This was a lovely, peaceful little boat ride with an amazing tour guide. We learned so really cool history about the place. Worth doing.

Inside boat ride!!

Approx 20-person boat that takes you around the Delta Island. "Inside" the Gaylord Opry Resort! This place is so big with 2,888 rooms that they added a quarter mile boat ride. We went in December when...

Fun and enjoyable!

My first indoor water boat experience! I really enjoyed this relaxing and informative boat ride. It was convenient and affordable!

Fun Little Ride

My Adult Daughter and I took the little river boat tour on our pre-Christmas stay. It was cute, had a Christmas theme that came along with a reading of the Night Before Christmas. Think a family wit...

Holiday season decorations made the difference

The holiday season decorations made this little trip more eye pleasing than normal. The waterfalls are always pretty. I do understand why some folks would consider the trip a poor value. Five bucks a ...

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251.626.0798 

Hours : 8 a.m. - Dusk Seven days a week, 365 days a year

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Nobody knows the waters of the scenic and historic Mobile-Tensaw Delta better than the licensed captains of Historic Blakeley State Park's Delta Explorer ! The park is the lower delta's longest-running boat tour operator and offers regular excursions into what is referred to by many as one of America's natural wonders. We invite you to journey with us by boat through these tranquil waterways and discover this incredibly diverse ecosystem. Here you will find a variety of wetland habitats that are home to the state's largest population of alligators, black bears, the rare red-bellied turtle, ospreys, bald eagles and numerous species of fish. Multiple guided cruises explore this stunning natural habitat along with nationally important historic sites, including locations associated with the Civil War's “Mobile Campaign,” and the modern Port of Mobile, one of the nation's busiest harbors.

Experience it all from the comfort of the Delta Explorer . The U.S. Coast Guard-licensed covered boat features bench seating and a restroom facility and is handicapped accessible.

For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

Charter tours leaving from the park dock are available anytime for a minimum of $800 guaranteed tickets at standard rates. Other charter tour options are available at varying rates. For more information, call the park office at 251-626-0798 .

Our Cruise Offerings Include:

This two-hour excursion takes guests up the storied Tensaw River to discover the site where the famed “Ghost Fleet”—a naval reserve fleet of hundreds of vessels kept in readiness for service in the decades after WWII—were once moored. Along the way we explore the winding route of scenic and secluded McVay’s Lake, the man-made ship channel connecting the Tensaw with the Mobile River near Gravine Island, and the seldom-traveled Raft River. 

The last known ship to bring enslaved Africans into America, the Clotilda rests in the waters of the Mobile River north of the city. Come along with us as we explore this somber but pivotal saga in local history with national significance. This special tour to the wreck is guided by Africatown Experience Tours. It will provide information on the voyage of the Clotilda, its passengers and their lives, and the enduring legacy of that fateful voyage by telling their stories. (Offered from the Blakeley Dock and the Cooper Riverside Park Dock in Downtown Mobile)

The park also offers monthly cruises departing from the Bartram Landing Dock at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort, Alabama 36527). Offerings vary by season. Please check our events page for a listing of scheduled cruises.  

  For a listing of current cruise offerings, please click here

Other special trips are offered on occasion.

Please check our events page for our current schedule.

Download Park Map

Historic Blakeley State Park 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL 36527 251.626.0798 [email protected]​

Hours of Operation 8 a.m. - Dusk Seven days a Week  

Admission Adults:  $5 Kids ages 6-12:  $3 Kids Under 6:  Free Veterans and active duty military: Free ( individual day use only)

Pets welcome, but must remain on leash at all times.

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Heart of the Delta

• From $5,999
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Please call for availability. To find another option, begin your search here.

For current fares, please call a viking expert: 1-800-304-9616 or request a quote today., spring sale.

*All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare. Strikeout fares reflect our Standard Cruise Fare.

*All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare.

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Air fare offer applies to select gateways; air fare offer may vary across gateways and itineraries; call for details.

Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas/Ft Worth, Detroit, Houston, Minneapolis, St Louis. Many additional gateways available, air fares may vary; call for details.

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Viking Inclusive Value

More features, services and excursions included.

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Booking Terms & Conditions >

Booking Terms & Conditions

2024-2025 MISSISSIPPI RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES: Offer applies to bookings made from May 1-31, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE roundtrip airfare valid on select 2024 and 2025 Mississippi River departures. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by May 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by August 31, 2024. Offers expires May 31, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT: For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to October 2024 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to December 2024 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Business Class air from $999 per person addon based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the  Viking Air Plus  page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:  Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Special fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract  .

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires May 31, 2024.

NOTE:  International flights depart the U.S. one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights.

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America’s last authentic overnight steamboat

The legendary Delta Queen invites you aboard to experience a nostalgic return to America’s past!

Step aboard this historic vessel and into another century, when steam-powered paddleboats churned up and down the waterways of America. Adorned with teak handrails, Tiffany-style stained glass and crystal chandeliers, the Delta Queen’s grand decor exudes lavish Victorian charm.

The Delta Queen is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. She is also a National Historic Landmark, a member of the National Maritime Hall of Fame, and most recently designated a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Once the renovation process is complete, the Delta Queen will return to the waterways of America’s Heartland and Deep South, giving passengers the opportunity to experience the rivers from America’s only authentic 1927 overnight paddlewheel steamboat.

At this time, the historic vessel is securing resources to begin major renovations so she can once again invite passengers to relive the age of Mark Twain and his cast of river characters.

Don’t miss your chance to escape to an era of elegance and grandeur aboard the Delta Queen! Be the first to receive updates about the Delta Queen’s renovations and future sailings by signing up for updates here and following us on Facebook and Twitter .

Don’t miss the boat!

We appreciate your patience as the Delta Queen secures the necessary funds and resources to begin our extensive renovation process. We look forward to welcoming you aboard as soon as it’s possible to do so.

To stay in the loop, please sign up for updates here .

Gaylord Opryland Tickets

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• Tickets Must be purchased in advance, online. No Box Office on-site.
• Children 3 and under are free with a paid admission.
• All Sales are subject to sales tax and processing fees unless otherwise noted.
• Please ensure you arrive 5-10 minutes before cruise time for boarding. The boat will leave the dock promptly at the scheduled time.
• Delta Boat ride experience is approximately 30 minutes in length.
• Boarding begins promptly at time reserved.
• Located in Delta Atrium.
• Additional fees for parking are not included in admission and charges may apply.
• Tickets are non-refundable.

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5 Rivers - Boat Tours

"Delta Discovery" Boat Tours

5 Rivers partners with Blakeley Historic Park to offer boat tours leaving the 5 Rivers Bartram Landing docks.  Boat tours are reserved in advance online at their website.  To see a listing of upcoming tours and for more information, visit:

Events and Tours, Blakeley Historic Park

 or call 251-626-0798 ext 2.

Photographs by Kathy Hicks.

Official Web Site of Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

© 2024 Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

64 N. Union Street, Suite 468 - Montgomery, Alabama 36130

Delta Riverboat Company at Gaylord Opryland Resort

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Delta Riverboat Company at Gaylord Opryland Resort - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Captain Ray's River Tours

Hours updated 1 month ago

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445 W Weber Ave

Stockton, CA 95203

Serving Stockton Area

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Captain Ray's River Tours is your gateway to the Delta's scenic beauty. Craft your ideal river tour, choosing your experiences. Visit our website, or contact Captain Ray to explore charter options, special requests, and create your ideal river journey. …

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Delta Queen Hotel

Best Riverboat In The States!

Delta Queen Riverboat Hotel

The Legendary Delta Queen now moored in Chattanooga, the last fully operational, overnight passenger steamboat in the country, is the newest landmark Chattanooga hotel . This grand lady had logged over two million miles, carried over half a million passengers and is the only boat to be inducted into the National Marine Hall of Fame while still in service. She has entertained Presidents, foreign dignitaries and a multitude of celebrities.

Chattanooga accommodations are right in the middle of the vibrant North Shore scene at Coolidge Park Landing. Plenty of self parking is located near our dock and available to the guests. The Delta Queen is a quick drive or an enjoyable walk (across the Pedestrian Bridge) to the Southside of the Tennessee River and the heart of downtown Chattanooga where many area attractions reside such as the Tennesee Aquarium and Hunter Museum of Art.

The Delta Queen offers an ideal base of operations for your exploration of Chattanooga attractions .  All aboard for a unique Chattanooga hotel experience…

So, if you’re looking for something extraordinary among the offerings of Chattanooga hotels, right in the middle of the action, with a bed rocking to the rhythm of the Tennessee River, the Delta Queen is your choice for an unforgettable stay in the Scenic City.

More From Forbes

Thinking about trying a river cruise start in the u.s..

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American Cruise Lines operates small ship sailing on various waterways around the U.S.

It’s been argued that the U.S. is so diverse and offers so many varying vistas that you could spend a lifetime traveling from coast to coast and still not see it all. From the Rockies to the Smokies, from the desert to the tropics, from skiing to scuba diving, America really does deliver.

And that’s exactly what American Cruise Lines celebrates as it explores the history, heritage, and places behind all that makes America beautiful. The line offers over 50 itineraries ranging from six to 60 days and visits 35 states from Alaska to Florida. It is the only cruise line in the world with a 100 percent American-made fleet—that fleet consists of small ships that hold between 90 and 180 guests, classic paddlewheelers, and a brand new line of coastal catamarans.

American Cruise Lines’ 19 riverboats and small cruise ships make up the largest domestic cruise line in the country, and travelers are flocking to its upscale, all-inclusive experiences.

River Boat Itineraries Keep It Interesting

The popular jet boat ride into Hell's Canyon is one of many excursions available on the Columbia & ... [+] Snake River cruise.

Itineraries within the continental U.S. highlight the Mississippi River, including the Ohio, Cumberland, and Tennessee Rivers; the Columbia and Snake Rivers; the Hudson River; and Florida Rivers (St. John’s and Tolomato). For Americans, ports of call are usually just a short flight away. For those traveling farther, it’s a fully-planned and coordinated way to visit some of the most beautiful parts of the country. And everything is taken care of for you from start to finish.

You might find yourself on a quaint city walking tour, kayaking with a guide who points out the wildlife, touring a fort, flightseeing over majestic landscapes, or exploring a museum.

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Sam altman apologizes to scarlett johansson over openai chatbot voice she called ‘eerily similar’ to hers, donald trump jr attends father s hush money trial as melania and ivanka avoid it here are the other trump allies in court, american cruise lines’ small ships are all-inclusive.

The all-inclusive experience here is a huge selling point. One of the reasons American Cruise Lines is booked out well in advance is because it makes traveling so easy. Everything, including food, beverages (yes, even the alcoholic kind), entertainment and educational presentations, most excursions, Wi-Fi, port taxes, and even gratuities is included. In fact, domestic flights, pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, and ground transportation are part of your package as well. In other words, you won’t be nickel-and-dimed with this line. Make a phone call to book, answer another call to arrange your flight, and that’s the extent of your effort.

The staterooms on American Cruise Lines' small ships are the largest in the industry, and all new ... [+] ships sport private balconies.

Once you arrive, you’ll be thrilled to see your stateroom. While cruise ships are known for making the most of tiny spaces, American Cruise Lines boasts the largest cabins in the industry and more space per passenger for moving around, securing a lounge chair, or selecting your seat at dinner. One hundred percent of cabins face outward, and all new ships have floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to private balconies. Views are unobstructed in rooms as well as dining areas, so these ships are especially appealing to those who have avoided cruises out of fear of claustrophobia. With so much space and light, those fears will be laid to rest.

Perhaps one of the most impressive selling points is that American Cruise Lines’ ships meet the highest emissions standards and have tiny carbon footprints. The line incorporates the latest technology, including a bow that opens like a drawbridge from which a powered passenger gangway emerges. This allows for bow landings and ensures the ship can navigate into areas most ships could never traverse.

Small Ship Dining Is Relaxed, Not Hurried Or Crowded

The dinner experience on a small ship in the American Cruise Line is intimate and tailored to your ... [+] dietary restrictions.

While small ships don’t offer casinos and grand productions, what they do have are talented musicians, a cocktail hour with a beautiful array of hors d'oeuvres, and educational speakers. Some of American Cruise Lines’ offerings include Mark Twain and literary experts on the Mississippi River cruise, biologists and ecologists on Florida cruises, and Lewis and Clark experts on the Columbia and Snake River cruises – sometimes the experts even accompany cruisers on excursions to further enhance those experiences. And you can expect dining to be more intimate, more gourmet-leaning, and adaptable for vegans, vegetarians, and so on. This attention to individual needs is one of the many benefits of the small ship experience.

American Cruise Lines is the only line in the U.S. that offers both river and coastal cruises, and the new addition of coastal cats provides adventure opportunities for cruisers who love the idea of getting some wave action. If you’ve only done ocean cruising, it may be a great way to dip your toes into river cruising. But if you’re brave enough to jump all the way in, river cruising can provide a totally different – and totally blissful – experience.

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Delta is game-day ready with flights to college football’s biggest matchups this fall

Delta wants to make sure college football fans enjoy seamless travel options to this fall's most-anticipated games. With more than 50 nonstop flights and 5,600 seats added between Aug. 30 and Dec. 1, Delta is meeting the high demand from customers ready to cheer on their teams. 

From the season opener in Las Vegas to matchups spanning the coasts, Delta is dedicated to enhancing the game-day experience for its customers, with a busy fall schedule ahead:  

COLLEGE FOOTBALL GAMES – ADDED ROUNDTRIP ROUTES  

Sept. 1: LSU vs USC in Las Vegas – Baton Rouge (BTR) and New Orleans (MSY) to Las Vegas (LAS)  

Sept. 14: Alabama at Wisconsin – Birmingham (BHM) and Huntsville (HSV) to Madison (MSN)  

Sept. 21: Tenn at Oklahoma – Knoxville (TYS) to Oklahoma City (OKC)  

Oct. 5: Tenn at Arkansas – Knoxville (TYS) to Northwest Arkansas (XNA) 

Oct. 12: Ohio State at Oregon – Columbus (CMH) to Portland (PDX) and Minneapolis (MSP) to Eugene (EUG)  

Oct. 19: South Carolina at Oklahoma – Columbia (CAE) to Oklahoma City (OKC) 

Oct. 26: Missouri at Alabama – Kansas City (MCI) to Birmingham (BHM) 

Nov. 2: UNC at FSU – Raleigh-Durham (RDU) to Tallahassee (TLH)  

Nov. 9: Florida at Texas – Gainesville (GNV) to Austin (AUS), Tampa (TPA) to AUS and Orlando (MCO) to AUS  

Nov. 9: Washington at Penn State – Seattle (SEA) to Pittsburgh (PIT)  

Nov. 9: Iowa at UCLA – Des Moines (DSM) to Los Angeles (LAX)  

Nov. 9: FSU at Notre Dame – Tallahassee (TLH) to South Bend (SBN) 

Nov. 16: Texas at Arkansas – Austin (AUS) to Northwest Arkansas (XNA) 

Nov. 23: Kentucky at Texas – Lexington (LEX) to Austin (AUS)  

Nov. 23: Alabama at Oklahoma – Birmingham (BHM) to Oklahoma City (OKC) and Huntsville (HSV) to OKC  

Nov. 30: Oklahoma at LSU – Oklahoma City (OKC) to Baton Rouge (BTR) 

Additionally, customers departing from New York-LaGuardia (LGA) can catch every home Notre Dame game with Delta’s newly added flights to South Bend, Ind. (SBN).  

And don’t forget: with much of the Delta fleet equipped with  live satellite TV,  customers also have the option to catch every touchdown on their seatback screens while cruising over the continental U.S.    

For booking and more information on these flights, visit  delta.com .  

• Routes , Football

Love Exploring

The Most Beautiful River Cruises In North America Are Picture Perfect

Posted: February 10, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

Rolling on the river

Viking Mississippi Holiday Season cruise, USA

It’s never too early to start planning a Christmas markets cruise, and as much as we love the ones in Germany and Austria, nothing beats a festive float down the Mississippi. Highlights on  this cruise , which snakes from Memphis to New Orleans, include stop-offs at Natchez, whose many historic buildings are festooned with Christmas lights, and Vicksburg, whose independent boutiques are great places to pick up presents. This is also a great cruise for twitchers – a huge number of bird species flock to this stretch of the Mississippi for winter. 

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M.S. Dixie II Lake Tahoe cruise, California, USA

Say hello to one of America’s most spectacular lake cruises. Your mode of transport for this sail across Lake Tahoe will be the M.S Dixie II – the lake’s biggest boat. The sunset dinner cruises are popular with couples, although we recommend the scenic daytime tours, which are a great way to explore North America’s largest alpine lake. This high-altitude body of water spreads into two states (California and Nevada), contains enough water to cover California with 14 inches of water and is deeper than the Empire State Building is tall.  

Le Petit Navire Lachine Canal tour, Québec, Canada

If crowded cruise liners and transatlantic crossings don’t appeal, consider this leisurely sail along Canada’s 14-kilometer Lachine Canal, which slices through the southern section of Montréal, a city famous for its historic architecture. Don’t know your dingle from your dewater? You’ll gain a wonderful insight into the construction of this historic waterway as you pass through its locks, and you’ll also enjoy fantastic views of Montréal’s skyline. Your mode of transport is rather special too – a carbon-neutral, zero-pollution electric propulsion boat. 

American Cruise Lines Alaska Inside Passage cruise, Alaska, USA

Alaska’s Inside Passage is an inland route weaving between islands on the Pacific Northwest coast and along glacier-lined fjords. Inside Passage cruises offer a different perspective on Alaska to coastal cruises, relying on smaller ships to reach more remote ports of call. Highlights of this cruise include the Strait of Georgia, where you’ll sail between Vancouver Island and British Columbia, and the glacier-fed waters of Frederick Sound – a brilliant whale watching spot.

Now check out the fabulous cruising facts you won't believe

Northwest Pioneers Cruise, Oregon and Washington, USA

As much as we love the mighty Mississippi, this brilliant river cruise , which wiggles through Oregon and Washington, is a fantastic reminder that there are plenty of other breathtakingly beautiful waterways to explore. On this adventure, you’ll sail along the Columbia River – the largest in America’s Pacific Northwest – and Snake River, which is the Columbia River’s largest tributary. It’s a great way to see some of America’s most underrated destinations, including the town of Astoria, which is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.

American Cruise Lines Puget Sound and San Juan Islands Cruise, Washington, USA

This seven-day cruise provides a brilliant insight into one of America’s most wildlife-rich regions: Washington state’s Puget Sound, America’s second largest estuary; and the San Juan Islands, a cluster of 172 islands and reefs where you’re likely to spot wildlife including whales and eagles. Don’t miss the chance to explore Port Townsend, sandwiched between Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and famous for its Victorian-era architecture. 

Viking America’s Heartland cruise, Upper Mississippi, USA

This is one of the best Mississippi cruises for anyone keen to learn about the people who shaped this part of the US, whether it’s the Norwegians who migrated here during the 1800s or the farmers who made this region one of America’s top culinary destinations. Stops include the Missouri city of St Louis, once known as the Gateway to the West; Hannibal, which was the setting for Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn;  and the Iowan city of Dubuque, home to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Viking Heart of the Delta cruise, USA

An eight-day cruise between Memphis and New Orleans, Viking’s Heart of the Delta cruise takes in the Mississippi’s best bits, including many listed monuments and buildings. For history buffs, highlights will include St Francisville, where there’s a whopping 140 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Natchez, which has more listed buildings than any other American city. If you’re short on time, put Stanton Hall, which was built in the 1850s, at the top of your list – this Greek revival-style property is famous for its ornate mirrored parlors.  

James River Batteau Company Batteau River tour, Virginia, USA

Short on time? Opt for this scenic river tour . Your mode of transport for this float along Virginia’s James River will be one of the beautiful wooden boats which have sailed this waterway for years. The two-hour tour along the river, which is Virginia’s longest, is a great way to see its wildlife – bald eagles, river otters and ospreys are regularly spotted. It’s a rather relaxed affair, and passengers are encouraged to cool off with a swim in the river. 

Discover the beloved cruise ships that will never sail again

American Queen Voyages Clarkston to Portland cruise, USA

A brilliant cruise for history fans, this 10-day Snake River and Columbia River cruise starts in Clarkston and finishes in Vancouver, Washington – the route undertaken by explorers Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark in the early 1800s. It’s also a route lined with natural wonders, including Columbia Gorge, which slices through the Cascade Mountains, and Idaho’s Hell’s Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon and can be explored on a high-speed boat ride. The Columbia River stretch is where you’re most likely to see bison, elk and deer too. 

American Queen Voyages Memphis to Nashville cruise, USA

This nine-day Memphis to Nashville   cruise is a fantastic way to check out some of the southern state’s prettiest towns, whether it’s Paducah in Kentucky, famed for its arts and craft museum or Clarksville, Tennessee. The latter is famous for its breweries, distilleries and wineries, while historic sites include the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, where you can learn about the town’s famous former residents, including Wilma Rudolph – the first American woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. 

American Queen Voyages Mighty Mississippi Red Wing to New Orleans, USA

Can’t get enough of the Mighty Mississippi? Take a deep dive on  this 16-day cruise between Red Wing and New Orleans. It’s a fantastic way to discover the landscapes which surround America’s second longest river. The Minnesotan city of Winona, for example, is built on a sandbar and dates back to 9,500BC. The excursions on this cruise are fantastic too. Our favorite? In the town of Hannibal, Missouri, you’ll get the chance to make your very own clay pot out of Mississippi mud. 

Adventure Life Rivers of Adventure and Wine cruise, Oregon, USA

Your transport for this food and wine-themed cruise along the Columbia River is the Wilderness Legacy, a beautiful vessel designed to resemble a Victorian steamer. During the cruise, which starts and finishes in Portland, you’ll visit some of Oregon’s most important historical sites, but it’s the food and wine-themed stops that really set it apart. In the Hood River Valley, you can sign up for cycle rides between local vineyards, and in the Washington city of Walla Walla, you’ll visit a local chocolatier, olive oil producer, and brewery.  

American Queen Voyages St Louis to Cincinnati cruise, USA

Get more bang for your buck from your river cruise by signing up for American Queen Voyages’ exploration of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Stop-offs on this spectacular paddle steamer cruise include the Illinois city of Alton, which has a rich history and became a base for abolitionists in the 1800s, and Henderson in Kentucky. It’s another cruise with fantastic excursions, our favorite of which is a jet boat ride along a stunning section of the Ohio River near Carrollton, Kentucky. 

American Queen Voyages Montréal to Detroit cruise, Canada and US

An 11-day cruise between two very different cities, this Montréal to Detroit sailing provides plenty of opportunities for urban explorations – you’ll visit Montréal, Québec City , Toronto and Cleveland, as well as quaint riverside towns such as Gananoque, in the heart of the Thousand Islands archipelago in Eastern Ontario. This particular cruise offers fantastic value for money – the cost of your sailing covers a wide range of excursions, including visits to Toronto’s CN Tower and catamaran tours of Niagara Falls.

St Lawrence Cruise Lines, Canada’s Capital North cruise, Canada

This Ottawa River cruise is a great way to explore two very different regions of Canada – more specifically Ontario and Québec. The six-day sailing is packed with fascinating stop-offs, including the wildlife-filled Thousand Islands, which straddle the border between America and Canada, and Fort Wellington, built in 1812. Love a lock? For many passengers, the highlight of this river cruise is the famous Carillion Lock, an enormous 182-tonne structure which has a flow rate of 2,000 cubic meters of water per second. 

Pearl Seas Cruises Great Lakes and Georgian Bay cruise, US and Canada

Sign up for this 11-night cruise from Toronto to Milwaukee and you’ll get the chance to see four of the most beautiful Great Lakes, with time to visit attractions lining the route. For many, the highlight is Georgian Bay, where 30,000 islands form the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, and where you’ll be able to check out destinations such as traffic-free Mackinac Island by horse-drawn buggy. There are plenty of big hitters too – you’ll take a guided tour of Niagara Falls and visit the legendary Henry Ford Museum in Windsor, Ontario. 

Le Boat Rideau Canal Cruise, Ontario, Canada

For something completely different, consider hiring your own river boat for a bespoke exploration of Canada’s Rideau Canal. The waterway, which is the oldest continuously-operated canal system in North America, is regarded as one of the world’s greatest engineering feats, and the UNESCO-listed canal is lined with historic sites. Your mode of transport? A luxury river boat kitted out with a kitchen, spacious bathrooms and sun deck. They’re surprisingly easy to drive too, thanks to powerful thrusters which make navigating locks a breeze. 

American Cruise Lines Hudson River cruise, New York, USA

This New York round trip  takes in the Hudson River’s best bits, busting the myth that its most spectacular section weaves through the Big Apple. You’ll explore it on the American Star, which has room for just 100 passengers and offers several stop-offs in the beautiful Catskill Mountains area. The cruise is especially popular with fans of architecture, who come to admire historic buildings such as the Vanderbilt Mansion (the former home of Franklin D. Roosevelt). 

Viking Great River cruise, Mississippi, USA

This is another fantastic option for history buffs – a Mississippi River cruise filled with visits to some of America’s most important historic sites. In Red Wing, Minnesota, you’ll learn how New Englanders joined forces with German and Irish migrants to farm the fertile landscape, and in Burlington, Iowa, you’ll discover how the arrival of both steamboats and the railroad transformed this once sleepy town, filled with listed buildings. Don’t miss the chance to stand under the famous Gateway Arch in St Louis, Missouri – a crossroads for nineteenth-century explorers. 

US Mailboat Cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee on the M/V Sophie C, New Hampshire, USA

Another fantastic option for anyone short on time, this cruise takes place on America’s oldest floating post office – a beautiful vessel which launched on Lake Winnipesaukee in 1945. During the two-hour cruise, you’ll visit several of Lake Winnipesaukee’s 253 islands, many of which were once home to indigenous people such as the Pennacooks. Don’t forget to send a postcard home – you’ll be able to post it on the boat, complete with an M/V Sophie C stamp.  

Craving a cruise? Check out our guide to the world’s most beautiful cruise ships

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