Whether your ideal version of enjoying the great outdoors means relaxing on a pontoon boat or hiking to a waterfall with your pup, there’s something for everyone when it comes to getting outside and in the water around Nashville.
1. Nashville Toons
Nashville remains one of the top bachelorette party destinations, and the continuous sound of pedal taverns and party buses reminds us how Nashville never disappoints when it comes to putting on a good time.
Enter Nashville Toons. Nashville’s party pontoon brings life to the lake by featuring an oversized double decker boat to get you out of downtown’s hot and crowded bars and into the refreshing air of the lake.
Because your lake day is about YOU, Nashville Toons ensure the drinks stay cold, and the music is spot on. Featuring a state-of-the-art sound system throughout both levels of the boat, their pros keep the vibe chill, and always take your song requests.
To complete this dreamy atmosphere, the boat includes custom wood bars with ice troughs, a water slide from the top deck, along with a 16-foot lily pad.
Visit the Nashville Toons website, or stop by in person to learn more by visiting their Demonbreun office.
2. River Queen Voyages
If you’re looking for versatility, River Queen Voyages offers three premium experiences for every kind of water-lover. Book kayak tours and rentals, a pedal pontoon party boat, or—for an unforgettable experience—the River Queen Quest Kayak Scavenger Hunt.
Just like Nashville’s famous pedal tavern, the pedal pontoon is a cycle boat! Nash’s first and only pedal pontoon offers both public and private tours where guests can enjoy stunning river views of downtown Nashville.
If you’ve got a competitive bunch, or you are looking for a team building activity, the River Queen Quest Scavenger Hunt requires participants to find clues and solve riddles by kayak while paddling along the beauty of the downtown skyline.
We know some of you are simply looking for the nearest place to paddle. Well, River Queen Voyages has that too. Both kayak tours and rentals are available for the easiest and most convenient spot to get on the water fast. Get the “Full Nash” experience and paddle from Opryland to Downtown Riverfront Park.
Learn more and check out the River Queen Voyages website.
3. Nashville Paddle Co.
Where are our active people at?! For those of you who love combining your outdoors time with physical activity, paddle boarding is hands down the best way to get outside and get on the water. A full-body workout, paddle boarding is challenging enough on its own, but Nashville Paddle Co. also offers stand-up-paddle (SUP) yoga classes.
And hey, if you just need a vessel to get out on the water to lounge, we’re not judging. Nashville Paddle Co. offers both SUP and kayak rentals on Percy Priest Lake.
If you’re new to SUP, book an “Intro to SUP” class to learn the basics and feel confident on the water.
For locals we definitely recommend keeping an eye on the calendar for social paddles and special events, like the Full Moon Paddle.
To book and learn more, visit the Nashville Paddle Co. website.
4. Foggy Bottom Canoe
For one of the most relaxing ways to spend the day on the water, head to Foggy Bottom Canoe for a float down the river. Rent a canoe or kayak to enjoy the natural scenery just outside of the city, while enjoying a very friendly Class 1 river.
Slow moving with very few rapids, the Harpeth River is the perfect setting whether you want to fish, swim or simply relax. What comes as a surprise to many is that the river is home to sandbars that provide ideal picnic spots to post up and swim. Because why not prolong your lazy day on the river?
As far as wildlife and scenery you’ll likely see otters, beavers, deer, blue herons, turtles, overhanging trees, and towering rock cliffs.
Visit Foggy Bottom Canoe’s website to learn more and schedule a tour or rental!
5. Pontoon Saloon
If you’re on land and trying to move the party to the waterfront, visit Pontoon Salon, Nashville’s only Honky Tonk on water. This party barge is a river cruise that provides remarkable views of the downtown skyline while offering plenty of room for dancing and enjoying a beverage—just like any honky tonk bar.
Spend two hours on the Cumberland river for either a public or private cruise. If you’re a small crew, come aboard for one of Pontoon Saloon’s multiple scheduled cruises throughout the day. They boast “no pedaling” if you’re not in the mood to work for your view.
This fun BYOB experience is a laid-back way to enjoy the sunset in downtown Nashville with the best view in the city—from the water.
To learn more about daily excursions or to book a private cruise, visit the Pontoon Saloon website.
We’ve got you covered when it comes to all things current in Nashville. Continue exploring the blog for the latest in food, music and entertainment in Music City, and be sure to let us know your favorite way to get out on the water! We’d love to know who is opting for a leisurely river float and who is ready to pedal their way to pretty city views.