DELTA RIVERBOATS AT OPRYLAND

To be sure, there are plenty of beautiful sights in Nashville Tennessee.  I found one of the more serene and relaxing to be that of the winding river and indoor water gardens at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. 

Delta river at Opryland Resort

Delta Riverboats / Opryland Resort Nashville

During your visit to the Delta atrium take time for the Delta Riverboat on the scenic indoor river.  A fleet of 5 Mississippi-style flatboats carry 25 passengers each on leisurely 15 minute trips through the lush indoor gardens. 

Buying tickets for the Delta Riverboats

Ticket booth for Delta Riverboats

Your guide will narrate the complete history of the Opryland Resort while, all the while, drawing your attention to a papaya tree, some pineapple guava trees and a table top olive tree. You will also pass under a giant overhanging banyan tree native to India. 

Papaya tree

Learn about Delta Island which features an 85-foot fountain along with numerous shops and restaurants.

Delta Island

Delta island fountain

All plants, trees and shrubs within the atrium were shipped in from Florida, requiring 32 tractor trailers. The temperature within the atrium is maintained between 68-72 degrees.

As you glide silently through the water you will spot catfish, carp, bluegill and 2 Japanese koi named Romeo and Juliet. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of Danny, an 80 pound catfish. 

 

The peak of the atrium rises 15 stories above the water.  The ceiling consists of 6,200 panes of glass each weighing 250 pounds. Three large waterfalls along the route, the largest being 44 feet high, are used as the main filtration system for the river.  They provide enough oxygen in the water to sustain fish life.

Cost is $15 per person.  For more info contact Delta Riverboats or call the Gaylord Opryland Resort at 1-615-889-1000.