easy
2–3 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; just sit back and enjoy the ride
Join The Southern Belle Riverboat in Chattanooga for an unforgettable evening of fine dining and a breathtaking sunset cruise on the Tennessee River. Perfect for special occasions or an elegant night out, this experience combines southern hospitality with scenic beauty. Discover how a classic riverboat cruise can transform a simple evening into a memorable adventure. Read on to learn more about this unique Chattanooga activity.
All Ages Welcome • Dinner & Cruise
Experience an enchanting evening at the historic Mayor's Mansion Inn in Chattanooga, where a candlelit dinner featuring exquisite filet mignon sets the stage for a magical sunset cruise. Glide along the Tennessee River, savoring cocktails and live music as the sky transforms into a breathtaking canvas, creating unforgettable memories.
Imagine stepping into the Mayor’s Mansion Inn in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where the 1889 Victorian charm envelops you in a world of timeless elegance. As you settle in for dinner, the warm glow of candlelight dances across the richly appointed dining room. A perfectly seared filet mignon arrives, its aroma teasing your senses, the tender cut of beef practically melting with every bite. The flavors, so exquisite, are enhanced by the historic ambiance of the inn, where each creak of the wooden floorboards seems to whisper tales from a bygone era.
After dinner, as the sun begins its descent, you embark on a short, leisurely drive just a mile down the road to the Southern Belle Riverboat. The excitement builds as you step aboard this grand vessel, greeted by the gentle sounds of a live musician serenading the guests. The riverboat pulls away from the dock, gliding smoothly onto the Tennessee River, where the surrounding mountains and valleys paint the perfect backdrop for a sunset of vivid colors.
The sky transforms into a canvas of pinks, purples, and golds, reflected on the calm waters below. As you sip on a cocktail from one of the three full bars, you feel the day’s stress melt away. A soft breeze carries the scent of the river, and the twinkling lights of Chattanooga begin to shimmer in the distance. You take a moment to visit the pilot house, where the captain shares stories of the river's history.
With each passing moment, the riverboat seems to drift further into a dreamy world where time slows down, and the beauty of the "Scenic City" captures your heart. The serenade continues, and as the last rays of sunlight fade, you find yourself lost in the magic of the evening, savoring every second of this enchanting experience on the Tennessee River.
Okay, so here’s the deal: our Sunset Cruise is named for the general vibe, not for NASA-level astronomical precision. We know the actual sunset time changes every single day (by the minute, no less), but unfortunately, we can’t update our cruise schedule daily just to match the sun’s dramatic exit.
We’d love to launch at 7:23 PM one day, then 7:24 PM the next, but alas—humans like consistency. Also, we’re not time wizards.
So, if your evening depends on seeing the sun dramatically dip below the horizon like it’s the final scene of a movie, we recommend checking your weather or sunset app before booking. We’ll provide the beautiful boat, great vibes, and solid lighting—you bring the realistic expectations.
In short: this cruise happens in the late afternoon and early evening. It’s called a Sunset Cruise because “Late-ish Afternoon Golden Hour-ish Cruise” doesn’t look great on a brochure. Please use common sense. And sunscreen.
Arrive at the Mayor's Mansion Inn at least 30 minutes before your reservation to enjoy the ambiance and settle in comfortably.
Opt for smart casual attire to match the elegant setting of the candlelit dinner and river cruise.
Capture the stunning sunset and scenic river views from the boat—these moments are truly picture-worthy.
Monitor the weather close to your trip date, as clear evenings provide the best sunset views.
The Tennessee River played a vital role in Chattanooga's development, with riverboats like The Southern Belle continuing the maritime tradition.
Efforts in the region focus on maintaining clean waterways and preserving historic riverboat routes for future generations.
Dress smart casual to match the elegant setting and stay comfortable during the cruise.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Capture sunset moments and scenic views along the river.
Bring layers to stay warm as evening temperatures drop.
spring|fall|winter specific
Apply sunscreen and bring sunglasses for daytime excursions before the cruise.
summer specific