My favorite fall tradition is finding amazing places to go to observe the changing leaves. It may be an apple orchard, a farm, or a mountainous area for a hike, but no matter where it is, the star of the show is always the trees. We have some pretty amazing fall foliage here in Tennessee and we have plenty of places to go to admire it, but sometimes it's nice to break up the norm and do something different -- like, perhaps, a fall boat cruise in Tennessee? What a spectacular way to see the fall colors!
Chattanooga is a city that takes great pride in being on the Tennessee River. Many attractions and businesses make good use of the water. The Southern Belle Riverboat is a company that is on a mission to show people the beauty found in Chattanooga by way of the water.
The mighty Tennessee River weaves in and out of mountain ranges and is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Tennessee." The tree-lined cliff sides make the perfect place to see the changing leaves.
There are plenty of hikes in the area that give spectacular views and are especially beautiful in the fall. However, if you notice in most of these pictures of glorious overlooks, the river is somewhere in the shot. Now imagine taking those spectacular views and seeing them from the water! That is exactly what you will get on the Southern Belle.
Two fall-specific cruises run through autumn. The first is a three-hour long voyage down the river to get plenty of fantastic views of the fall foliage. You can enjoy the journey on the open-air decks and there is a live narration throughout the trip.
The second option is very much like the first one, except you will be given lunch. The Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise also takes leaf peepers on a three-hour ride, but adds live music, bingo, and a delicious buffet.
Of course, there are also other cruises available that you can book year-round. The sunset cruise is particularly pretty with the fall foliage as a backdrop to the painted skies above.
When it comes to unique ways to enjoy the changing leaves in Tennessee, this is a winner! Will you be going on a fall boat ride in TN this season? Break up the normal scenic drives and take to the waters to see the brilliant colors from the Tennessee River. For more information, please visit the Southern Belle Riverboat website. No need to leave Chattanooga too soon -- stay in the Bluff View Inn for more great views of the river!
For another on the river experience, make sure you check out the Chattanooga Ducks.
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