Top 10 Things to Do on the Water in Nashville: Cool Off and Escape Broadway This Summer

When summer hits, the Music City sizzles. With heat indexes soaring and downtown crowds thick as molasses, locals know there’s only one real way to beat the Tennessee sun: get on the water.

If you’re looking for a way to cool off and take a break from the Broadway bustle, we’ve got you. Whether you’re craving a laid-back float, a lively party cruise, or a splashy sightseeing trip, Nashville offers some unexpectedly awesome water experiences just minutes from downtown.

Why Nashville’s Water Adventures Are a Summer Lifesaver

While most people think Nashville is all boots and beer, it’s also a city framed by rivers, lakes, and green space. And when the heat hits 90+ (as it often does from June to August), locals ditch the pavement for pontoon decks and paddleboards.

Here’s why you should too:

• Easy Access: Most water experiences launch within 15–20 minutes of downtown, and some of our favorites even include a free shuttle service.

• Unique Vibes: From double decker pontoons with water slides to tiki cruises, each experience has its own flavor.

• Beat the Heat: Water = instant relief. Especially when paired with a cold drink and a breeze off the river.

• Skip the Crowds: While Broadway’s packed, the water gives you room to breathe (and dance).
  
  

Packing tip: Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, water shoes or sandals, and a towel. Bonus points for a waterproof phone pouch—you’ll want the pics.

1. Double-Decker Party Pontoon – Nashville Toons 🚤

Looking to break free from Broadway, turn up the fun, and soak in Nashville from the water? The Nashville Toons experience is your perfect fit—an epic double‑decker pontoon cruise complete with slide, music, and all the good vibes.

This isn’t your standard boat rental—it’s a custom-built, lake-ready party barge designed to impress. Perfect for birthdays, bachelorette parties, or any crew looking to bring the energy while staying cool.

• Cost: Starts around $719 per group for a 3-hour charter

• Time Needed: Roughly 3 hours—ample time to cruise, slide, and chill.

• Food & Drinks: BYOB with coolers and ice provided.

• Transportation: Free shuttle service from Downtown Nashville and back

• Age Policy: If alcohol is on board, guests must be 21+. Otherwise, family-friendly.

Pro Tips

• Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and a waterproof phone pouch.

• Want epic sunsets? Book a late-evening cruise.

• Floatables, wakeboards, and extra water toys are included to amp the fun.

• Reserve early—slots fill fast during peak summer.

Image Source: Nashville Toons

2. Luxury Pontoon Rental – Nashville Toons 🛥️

Want all the fun of a party pontoon—but in a more intimate, low-key format? Nashville Toons now offers 24’–27’ single-level luxury pontoons, ideal for smaller groups or as an add-on boat for large gatherings.

You’ll still enjoy all the premium perks that make Toons a Nashville summer favorite, just in a cozier package—like free roundtrip shuttle service, a certified host and driver, a Bluetooth sound system, built-in coolers with ice, onboard games, a Lilly pad, floaties, and more.

• Cost: Starting at $499

• Time Needed: 3 hours (standard)

• Food & Drinks: BYOB (no glass), bring your own snacks

• Transportation: Free shuttle service from Downtown Nashville and back

• Group Size: 2–8 guests

• Best For: Couples, families, chill outings, or groups needing overflow space

Pro Tips

• Perfect for families or groups who want the fun without the full-scale party vibe

• Can be paired with a double-decker rental for large multi-boat events

• Bring towels, sunblock, and a waterproof speaker if you want to play DJ
  
  

3. Downtown Tiki Cruise – Cruisin’ Tikis Nashville 🌆

Float under the city skyline on a public 90-minute tiki cruise. Bring your playlist, friends, and cooler.

• Cost: $75 per person

• Time Needed: 1.5 hours

• Food & Drinks: BYOB (no glass), onboard Bluetooth speaker, ice-ready cooler

• Parking: Depends on dock location (check at booking)

• Pro Tip: Sunset slots book fast—reserve early

• Vibe: Lively yet relaxed, great skyline photo ops

Image Source: Cruisin' Tikis Nashville

4. Private Morning Mimosa Cruise – Cruisin’ Tikis Nashville☀️

Start the day in style with a private 1.5-hour cruise perfect for sipping mimosas and catching the morning glow.

• Cost: About $425 per private group

• Who It’s For: Couples, small groups, families (all ages welcome)

• Pro Tip: No restrooms on board—use facilities before you depart

• Vibe: Chill, intimate, and perfect for sunrise reflections

 

5. Private Sunset Tiki Cruise – Cruisin’ Tikis Nashville 🌅

Toast to the end of the day with this golden-hour cruise.

• Cost: $425 per private cruise

• Time Needed: 1.5 hours

• Pro Tip: Best for photos and relaxed vibes

 

6. Old Hickory Lake Tiki Cruise – Cruisin’ Tikis Nashville 🌿

Escape downtown crowds on a peaceful cruise across Old Hickory Lake.

• Cost: $75 per person

• Vibe: Serene and scenic, ideal for nature lovers

 

7. Party Cove Tiki Cruise – Cruisin’ Tikis Nashville 🎉

This 3-hour private tiki adventure includes a swim stop at Party Cove.

• Cost: $525 for up to 6 guests

• Pro Tip: Bring towels and swimwear

 

8. Skyline Kayak Tour – River Queen Voyages 🚣‍♂️

Explore Nashville by water with a 90-minute paddle past the skyline.

• Cost: $46 per person (discounts for groups)

• Includes: Kayak, paddle, vest, instruction, optional shuttle

• Pro Tip: Great for first-timers or photographers
  
  Image Source: River Queen Voyages

9. Kayak Scavenger Hunt – River Queen Voyages 🔍

Add a twist to your paddle with this 3-mile clue-solving river quest.

• Cost: ~$55 per person

• Time Needed: ~2 hours

• Pro Tip: Perfect for teens, couples, or competitive families
  
  

10. Pedal Pontoon Party – River Queen Voyages 🚲🍻

Hop aboard Nashville’s only bike-barge and cruise with up to 16 friends.

• Cost: $44–49 per person; $449–699 private

• Pro Tip: Pedaling optional. BYOB. Restroom onboard.

• Vibe: Social, scenic, and totally unique
  
  

💦 Water Adventure FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim?

Not necessarily. Kayak and paddleboard experiences include life vests and safety instruction, and the water routes are flat and beginner-friendly. For party barges, pedal pontoons, and tiki boats, swimming isn’t required—just come ready to relax.

Can I bring kids?

Yes! Most experiences allow kids with adult supervision. Kayaking is best for ages 8+, and pontoon or tiki rides can accommodate all ages on private bookings. For public cruises, age limits may apply (e.g., 21+ for BYOB cruises).

Are there restrooms onboard?

• Yes: Double-decker Toons, Pedal Pontoon

• No: Kayaks, most tiki boats — be sure to use shore facilities beforehand

What should I pack?

• Drinks! Most experiences are BYOB.

• Swimsuit or quick-dry clothes

• Towel

• Refillable water bottle

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• Water shoes or secure sandals

• Dry bag or waterproof phone pouch

Can I combine these activities?

Absolutely. Many guests book a kayak in the morning and a tiki or pontoon cruise later in the day. Some providers also offer group packages or multi-boat options for larger parties.

 

🌊 Final Splash: Why You Should Get On the Water in Nashville

Broadway’s great, but let’s be honest, everyone needs a break from the honky tonks. Nashville’s waterways offer the ultimate refresh: wide-open views, breezy summer vibes, and one-of-a-kind ways to explore the city.

Whether you’re sliding off a double-decker pontoon, paddling under bridges, or sipping mimosas on a tiki boat, these water experiences deliver relaxation, fun, and something way cooler than another bar crawl.

So pack your sunnies, rally your crew, and float your way through Music City’s splashiest adventures.