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General Jackson Showboat

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neshie
neshie
First Reviewer
4 out of 5
Avg. Member Rating
6
Reviews
11
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1-5 of 6

Southern Comfort

Southern Comfort

Since moving to Nashville my husband, The Crabby Old Guy, and I have heard many people talk about the wonderful shows that were at the former Opryland Themepark and wished that we would have had the chance to see them. Fortunately, we heard that the General Jackson Showboat was recreating the popular "Country Music USA!" show and decided to give it a try.

This production of "Country Music USA!" is, in a word, AMAZING!
For those of us who remember and love classic country music, nostalgia fills the room when stories, hit song stories and large screen vintage pictures of Hank Williams Sr., Patsy Cline, Roy Acuff, Charlie Pride and so and many other beloved members of The Grand Ole Opry come to life again on this three hour dinner cruise. Fans of more contemporary stars, such as Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood and Trish Yearwood will not feel left out as the music of these fabulous performers also play out big-time.

Paul Vann, who was part of the original production at the theme park and the other performers and musicians, took the audience on a memory trip of music that gave a voice to America and earned Nashville its title "Music City". The singing and dancing along with numerous costume changes and elaborate lighting and staging all added up to what can only be called a "BIG TIME" experience. I highly recommend this show to anyone who is looking for a first class country music evening. Ladies, it’s worth the price of a ticket to see Paul Vann perform on stage (Brad Pitt move over!)

Chef Chris Browne served up a wonderful three course meal which included salad, prime rib of beef, vegetables and, my favorite, a decadent chocolate truffle cake.

This show is a natural hit since it IS Nashville. So whether you are visiting The Music City and want to experience The Music or live around here and want to experience The Music, this show is a must see!

While The Crabby Old Guy, and I were on the General Jackson Showboat enjoying the amazing dinner "Country Music USA" show, several of the people at our table mentioned that they had seen Tim Watson’s "Fiddlin’ Around" lunch show and recommended it as a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Since we had such a good time at "Country Music USA" we decided to try it.

Tim "The Fiddleman" Watson’s show is energy packed, comedic and highly entertaining. His band really works with him in a relaxed and fun way to give a great all-round performance. This is a real family show that has something for every generation. Not only were the adults in the audience entertained but also the many children there were too. Tim’s showmanship, quick wit and down-home humor only added sparkle and a sense of country charm to his amazing fiddling and singing. His trademark leap in the air while fiddin’ around left all of us amazed and with smiles on our faces.

Once again Chef Browne served up some Southern Comfort food that was just perfect for an afternoon lunch (not a light lunch mind you) that set the tone for the show just perfectly. The meal included a nicely done cornbread stuffed chicken, some great classic country ham, salads, muffins and biscuits and a luscious cheese cake that had everyone asking for seconds, which was gladly served up by the friendly staff. Be prepared to loosen your belts after eating this well prepared meal.

Mediocre

  • February 17, 2008
  • Rated 2 of 5 by jaugwim from Calgary, Alberta
Our experience was mediocre at best. We booked the General Jackson, but ended up on the Music City Queen. The table settings were very nice when we walked in, but the food was also mediocre and at around $100 per person you would expect more. For that price one would expect a glass of wine or cocktail to be included but everything was extra. Your photo was taken before you boarded, but it was another $20 for that - it felt like we were nickel and dimed to death over and above the pricey per person cost. The entertainment was o.k. with some local talent, but we were on an upper deck with a dance floor and not enough chairs for even half the guests. In one word - 'overmarketed'. Be aware of what you are getting into before you commit to this experience.

General Jackson Showboat

  • November 16, 2007
  • Rated 5 of 5 by TNCatsie from Bristol, Tennessee
This 100-yard paddle-wheeler cruises the Cumberland River each day. Once aboard, the atmosphere and hospitality will usher you back to the 19th century.

The nightime cruise only includes music on the upper deck. The three-hour dinner cruise includes a wonderful view of the Nashville skyline and a wonderful country band. The family can dance. Also, I highly recommend going to the different decks of the boat because of the different rooms. If you do not buy the dinner; you can buy food from the snack bar. I recommend before leaving the boat checking out the paddlewheel. It reminds me of being in a Mark Twain novel.

From journal Week in Nashville

General Jackson Showboat

  • December 23, 2005
  • Rated 2 of 5 by lady105 from Brooklyn, New York
Typical riverboat fare. The group on outer deck was great on the trip going out. The entertainment during the sit-down buffet was good, what you would expect. The food was just average. It is a bit pricey for my taste, but enjoyable, if you like that sort of thing.

From journal Traffic Nightmare in Nashville

General Jackson Showboat

  • August 9, 2003
  • Rated 5 of 5 by Reidie from Myersville, Maryland
After taking your photo, which you can purchase at the end of the cruise, you board the steamboat and enjoy fine dining at the midday buffet. Your salad, drinks, and dessert are served. In the evening, I believe you are served everything.

The entertainment was Tim Watson, the Fiddle Man, and he was excellent. The comedy was great and the music was too. It was fun for the whole family. The show ends about the time you reach downtown Nashville so you can go up to catch the view.

There is a history of the Cumberland River and a tour of the boat given at this time, but it is optional.

On the top deck, the Hurricane Deck, more music is offered as well as a bar for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You are entertained with music, comedy, good food, and fun the entire time.

From journal I'm a Little Bit Country, Music City USA

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