Aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat

What to Do Aboard the Southern Belle

Sightseeing Cruises

Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour daytime cruise along the Tennessee River. Passengers get panoramic views of the downtown skyline, Lookout Mountain, and the river gorge while listening to narrated local history and river lore.

‍

Sunset & Dinner Cruises 

The evening dinner cruises combine a 2 hour river tour with a freshly prepared buffet meal, live music, and dancing. Highly recommended by Hawkins Pointe guests as a favorite choice for date nights, family celebrations, or simply taking in the illuminated downtown bridge views after dark. (Recommended by HP Guests)
‍

‍

Pilot House Tours & Open Air Deck

Head up to the 3rd deck for open air views, fresh breeze, and unbeatable photo opportunities. Guests can also visit the Pilot House to see how the captain navigates the riverboat along the channel.

‍

Specialty & Holiday Events

Throughout the year, the Southern Belle hosts seasonal events ranging from Fall Foliage tours through the Tennessee River Gorge to summer party cruises and holiday themed sailings.

‍

Dining Nearby 

Located right on Pier 2 and along the downtown riverfront, you will find excellent dining options right at the dock or a short stroll away.

Overboard Bar & Grille: Right aboard the Southern Belle at Pier 2, this riverfront bar and grill sits 40 feet above the Tennessee River with stunning outdoor patio and indoor leather couch seating. The build-your-own half-pound Black Angus burger menu is a local favorite, and the lively atmosphere includes arcade games, darts, pool tables, and ping pong, making it a great stop before or after your cruise.

Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar: A 7-minute drive from Pier 2 at 1459 Riverside Drive, this riverside seafood destination is well worth the short trip. Known for its raw bar featuring fresh gulf and East Coast oysters, wood-fired grill specialties, and a seasonal outdoor SandBar facing the Tennessee River. Happy hour runs daily from 2 to 6 p.m., with half-price oysters every Monday and a catfish special every Wednesday.

Scottie's On the River: A casual waterfront seafood and steak restaurant a 9-minute stroll down Riverfront Parkway, featuring fresh oysters, fried lobster tail, center-cut filet mignon, and a full outdoor patio overlooking the Tennessee River.

Agave & Rye: Just a 6-minute walk away, this lively taco and craft cocktail destination offers over 90 tequilas, creative street tacos, and a kids' menu. Known for epic flavor combinations and great happy hour specials.

Hennen's: A 6-minute walk to just next to the Tennessee Aquarium, this upscale yet casual steak and seafood restaurant features a stunning 2,400-bottle wine cellar, patio dining, and a dedicated private dining room.

‍

Know Before You Go

Boarding & Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online or at the Pier 2 box office. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for all dining cruises. Boarding begins 30 to 45 minutes before departure times.

Hours & Schedule: Cruise schedules vary by season. Daytime sightseeing cruises typically run at set afternoon hours, while evening dinner cruises depart around sunset. Check the official riverboat calendar for exact departure times.

Dress Code: Casual attire is suitable for daytime sightseeing tours. For evening dinner cruises, resort casual or smart casual attire is suggested.

Accessibility & Comfort: The riverboat features enclosed, climate controlled dining decks as well as open air outdoor decks. Main dining areas are accessible, but check ahead with the box office for specific mobility accommodation needs.

Pet Policy: Service animals are permitted on board. Pets are not allowed on public cruises.

‍

Location & Getting There

Address:
151 Riverfront Parkway, Pier 2
Chattanooga, TN 37402

From Hawkins Pointe: Roughly a 25 to 30-minute drive north via I-24 W into downtown Chattanooga. Take the exit toward Riverfront Parkway and follow the signs directly to Pier 2 parking.

‍Official Website to Get Tickets

‍

Nearby Attractions to Pair With the Southern Belle Riverboat Cruise

• Tennessee Aquarium: Located just a short walk down the riverwalk from Pier 2. Chattanooga Riverwalk: A scenic 13 mile paved greenway running right along the dock area.
• Creative Discovery Museum: A top rated children's museum located just a few blocks up from the river. 
• Hunter Museum of American Art: Perched on the bluffs above the river, offering world class art and views.
• Chattanooga Riverwalk: A scenic 13-mile paved greenway running along the riverfront, accessible directly from the park.

‍

Staying Near Southern Belle Riverboat

Hawkins Pointe RV Park offers the perfect basecamp just minutes from downtown Chattanooga and Pier 2. Enjoy a relaxing river cruise and dinner downtown, then return to a quiet, spacious site for the night.

Explore nearby stay options:

• Overnight RV parking
• Executive RV sites

Hero Photo Credit: Original Image by K • Pexels