A Little Harley Temptation in Cherokee

by Dennis Augustine

Our travels brought us to colorful Cherokee, North Carolina, nestled at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and within the Qualla Boundary, the sovereign territory of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

We enjoyed a delicious group lunch at Native Brews Tap & Grill, with its lively atmosphere, local character and great food.

Then something shiny and blue caught my eye—a beautiful three-wheel Harley-Davidson!

Having owned several motorcycles in my younger years—my last a Honda CX500—I couldn’t resist complimenting the owner. On a whim, I asked if I could climb into the saddle. He graciously said, “Sure!”

What a treat! For a few moments, that wilder younger motorcycle-riding part of me came roaring back.

A Smoky Mountain Farewell Dinner at The Park Grill

by Dennis Augustine

We enjoyed a wonderful evening at The Park Grill in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, surrounded by the warm, rustic charm of this Smoky Mountain favorite.

The setting was lovely, but the company made the evening truly special—our fellow travelers, our fun-loving American Cruise Lines adventure guides, Amanda and Julie, and our funny, caring coach driver, Robert, who always “had our back.”

With delicious food, plenty of laughter, and such wonderful people, it was the perfect way to share one more memorable evening together in the Smokies.

AIR FORCE ONE TOUCHES DOWN — AND WE WERE THERE!

by Dennis Augustine

What an unexpected finale to our Tennessee adventure!

At about 11:10 this morning, Cecile and I were waiting at Gate 9 at McGhee Tyson Airport in Alcoa for our flight home when Air Force One came into view and touched down right before our eyes, bringing President Donald Trump to Knoxville for today’s Tennessee–Texas football game. We had purposetly decided to change our reservation with United Airlines to get home to get home a day early on Saturday, September 26 due to the expected massive crouds due to the game that caused hotel rooms prices to surge over $500 a night.

At that point we didn’t know Trump was coming—until we heard rumors and it began to show up on social media. We never imagined we’d have such a birdseye view from our gate along and over 50 people gathered around us. A few of them had had friends texting them that the president just flew over the stadium and that Air Force one was on his way to the airport.

Whether you liked the president or not, people got caught up in a memorable moment in history, one we least expected. As our plane slowly made its’ way on the tarmac, and prepare for takeoff, we passed Air Force one from a close vantage point. Our friends and traveling companions, Susie and Nelson Bye had a later flight on American Airline. Their flight was a little delayed. Susie had the opportunity to take a video of Air Force One taking off and heading back to Washington. If nothing else , it was a story to tell.

Note: Click on the title to this post to view the short video of Air Force One landing!

Climbing to the Top of the Smokies — Kuwohi

by Dennis Augustine

Our coach took us into Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and on to Kuwohi, formerly Clingmans Dome.

At 6,643 feet, it’s the highest point in the Smokies. The steep ½-mile climb gains 330 feet—and then comes the final ramp to the observation tower!

I started out like the hare, then became the tortoise—slowing down, working with my breath and steadily making my way up. People of all ages accepted the challenge, and somewhere along the way, our guide decided we earned our "I Hiked the Appalachian Trail" sticker!

Clouds and mist drifted across the mountains before giving way to moments of sunshine.

One step. One breath. One magnificent view at a time.

Exhilarating—and worth every step!

A Visit to Dolly’s DreamMore — A Memory Now Even More Meaningful

by Dennis Augustine

Our post-cruise adventure brought us to Dollywood’s beautiful DreamMore Resort in Pigeon Forge.

We had just 45 minutes to stroll the gardens, admire Dolly’s wall-to-wall album covers and memorabilia, take photos, visit the pool, and enjoy cocktails before our group buffet dinner. Nelson, Susie, Cecile and I found a table together as our Tennessee adventure began winding down.

Little did Cecile and I know when we booked this trip with the Byes that Dolly would pass away on August 25—just one day before my birthday.

Being surrounded by her music, memories and Smoky Mountain spirit made our visit especially poignant.

Dolly may be gone, but her dreams live on.

From the River to the Smokies — A Night at Dolly Parton’s Stampede

by Dennis Augustine

After disembarking the American Symphony, we met our adventure guides and traveled by coach to Townsend, Tennessee, for a group lunch at Peaceful Side Social, then continued to our new home base at the Residence Inn Pigeon Forge.

After settling in, it was off to Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction! The evening began with a lively country-music warm-up before the main event filled the arena with beautiful horses, skilled riders, music, comedy, colorful costumes and impressive stunts.

And while all that action was unfolding, the servers somehow kept pace with a hearty four-course feast—creamy soup, a whole oven-roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob and dessert. We even had vouchers for two drinks.

Quite a way to begin our Smoky Mountains adventure!

An Underwater Ballet at the Tennessee Aquarium

by Dennis Augustine

After lunch, Cecile and I walked across the street from the American Symphony to the Tennessee Aquarium — and our timing was perfect!

Two divers were feeding stingrays and fish, creating an amazing spectacle that looked almost like an underwater ballet.

We explored both River Journey, following freshwater from mountain streams to rivers and swamps, and Ocean Journey, filled with fascinating marine life. I even had the chance to gently touch the long, dark sturgeon as they swam by.

Another highlight was the Butterfly Garden, especially the beautiful Blue Morphos fluttering around us.

Cecile and I also posed beside Stella the Seahorse, a six-foot sculpture created from plastic debris recovered from beaches — beautiful art carrying an important conservation message.

A wonderful afternoon exploring the world from rivers to the sea!

Welcome to Chattanooga — By Land & Water!

by Dennis Augustine

After breakfast, our first tour of the day was a Chattanooga Duck Boat adventure — aboard an authentic WWII-era amphibious vehicle that travels on both land and water.

For the first half hour, Captain Bob entertained us with stories as we rolled through the Scenic City. Then came the fun part — splashdown into the Tennessee River!

From the water, we enjoyed beautiful views of Chattanooga’s riverfront, downtown skyline, Maclellan Island and the surrounding hills.

Along the way, we heard some great Chattanooga history: the MoonPie was born here in 1917, Chattanooga became home to the world’s first franchised Coca-Cola bottling operation, and in 1931, teenage pitcher Jackie Mitchell struck out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig back-to-back! (Visit Chattanooga⁠)

And when Captain Bob asked for a volunteer to take the wheel, Susie was the first to step up and captain our Duck Boat!

Mooresville’s Historic Beauty, 1818 Farms & Feeding the Gentle Sheep

by Dennis Augustine

Our American Symphony docked in Decatur, Alabama, where we headed off with a local guide to explore historic Mooresville—often called “Alabama’s Williamsburg.”

Founded in 1818 and listed in its entirety on the National Register of Historic Places, this beautifully preserved village felt like a step back in time. We strolled its tree-lined streets, admired the gardens, and visited the c. 1821 Stagecoach Tavern and c. 1839 Brick Church.

At 1818 Farms, we enjoyed a hands-on pressed-flower workshop and watched a fascinating demonstration of natural dyeing and eco-printing.

Then came my favorite part—Susie and I feeding apple slices to the farm’s friendly, gentle sheep. They certainly knew how to win us over!

After a little gift-shop browsing, it was back to the American Symphony—another memorable day along our river journey.

THE SHOALS STUDIO EXPERIENCE — WHERE MUSIC HISTORY WAS MADE

After an early breakfast, Nelson, Susan, Cecile and I joined 20 fellow travelers for an unforgettable trip into music history in Florence and Muscle Shoals area of Alabama.

We sat at the piano where Lynyrd Skynyrd created “Free Bird.”

Stood where The Rolling Stones recorded “Brown Sugar.”

Visited the studio where Aretha Franklin found her legendary sound.

And walked through the room where Bob Dylan recorded “Gotta Serve Somebody.”

We visited three iconic locations — FAME Recording Studios, Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and Cypress Moon Studios. What a thrill to stand where so much music history was made!

And another great perk: after three cruises with American Cruise Lines, we qualified for the Eagle Society, so we no longer pay for excursions! Five cruises and counting!

What an unforgettable morning walking in the footsteps of music legends!

From the Civil War to Southern Hospitality at Hagy's Catfish Hotel — A Day in Tennessee

by Dennis Augustine

Saturday brought the American Symphony to Savannah, Tennessee, where we docked alongside our sister ship, the American Splendor.

Our half-day excursion, “Civil War — From Battles to Reconstruction,” began at the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center, where a ranger brought to life the battles, military encampments and Reconstruction years that followed.

Then came some true Southern hospitality at Hagy’s Catfish Hotel, a nearly 90-year-old Tennessee institution overlooking the river. We enjoyed a family-style feast of their famous fried catfish, chicken, ham and all the fixings in a wonderfully rustic, down-home setting.

Our final stop was Shiloh National Military Park, where we toured the preserved battlefield and learned about the pivotal Battle of Shiloh of 1862.

History, reflection, Southern cooking and another memorable day along the Tennessee River.

Wild Encounters Cocktails, Dinner & Songs of the Rivers

by Dennis Augustine

National Scenic Byway into Land Between the Lakes, the beautiful recreation area between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.

At the Woodlands Nature Station, our guide Vanessa introduced us to Rose, a rescued screech owl who can no longer survive in the wild. Gentle and curious , she gave us an up-close look—and demonstrated how owls can turn their heads an amazing 270 degrees!

We also met Ibu, a shy little hedgehog named Ibu , and watched the snapping turtles at feeding time.

Back aboard the American Symphony, it was cocktails and hors d’oeuvres , dinner, and an evening performance of “Songs of the Rivers” by the Wheelhouse Rousters—a lively mix of folk and bluegrass celebrating America’s river traditions.

Paducah — Where History, Art & Quilts Tell a Story

After breakfast aboard the American Symphony, we traveled by coach to Paducah, Kentucky, a UNESCO Creative City.

Our morning began along the waterfront, where colorful murals bring Paducah’s history to life. Then it was on to the National Quilt Museum, where the quilts were truly works of art—remarkable in their detail, creativity and craftsmanship.

As Cecile and I walked through the exhibits, we thought of our dear friend and former patient Mary Roy, who volunteers with a team of quilters creating beautiful quilts to help raise funds for veterans.

We also enjoyed chatting with one of the museum’s Ambassador Volunteers, who told us she’ll soon be heading to San Diego for the national quilt show.

A wonderful morning filled with history, artistry, creativity—and a special connection to home.

Grand Rivers, Kentucky — Where Two Rivers Meet & Worries Drift Away

by Dennis Augustine

We stepped off the American Symphony in charming Grand Rivers, Kentucky — a little lakefront town at the gateway to the Land Between the Lakes, where the Tennessee and Cumberland river country comes together.

Our highlight was Patti’s 1880’s Settlement, wandering the seemingly endless garden paths filled with flowers, whimsical touches and reminders of another time.

Surrounded by Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, with waterfront views and its picturesque lighthouse, Grand Rivers feels like a place where memories are made…and worries really can be forgotten.

From Music City to the Cumberland River

by Dennis Augustine

Our Tennessee Rivers Cruise aboard the American Symphony officially began in Nashville as we set sail along the Cumberland River.

After a fun city tour, we returned aboard for lunch, dinner, and an evening of entertainment with Paul Aldrich, one of our featured musical comedians and impressionists.

With clever impressions, music, comedy, and stories from a life on stage, Paul provided plenty of laughs — a perfect ending to our first day on the river.

Nashville behind us, the Cumberland ahead…and our river adventure underway!

Touring Music City, Tennessee Whisky Tasting & Visiting the Greek Parthenon Replica Before We Set Sail

Before boarding our American Cruise Lines riverboat, we enjoyed a Nashville city tour led by Adam Pope, a local singer-songwriter who kept us entertained and laughing along the way.

Much of the tour celebrated Nashville’s legendary music scene, with stops and sights including the impressive full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon, a tasting at Tennessee Legend Distillery, and even the Taylor Swift bench.

A fun, music-filled introduction to Nashville—and a great way to begin our cruise!

From Dinner to the Grand Ole Opry — A Nashville Night to Remember

by Dennis Augustine

Dinner at Cascades American Café was just the beginning of a special Nashville evening.

After dinner, Cecile and I joined our good friends Susie and Nelson and hopped aboard the trolley for the short ride to the legendary Grand Ole Opry — celebrating its 100th anniversary this year!

Our tickets were complimentary as part of our upcoming American Cruise Lines cruise, making this a wonderful prelude to the journey ahead.

Tonight’s Tuesday Night Opry featured seven performers — a great mix of bluegrass, country, Americana, roots and Western music.

There’s something pretty special about sitting inside the home of the Grand Ole Opry, where generations of performers have stepped onto country music’s most famous stage since 1925.

La Dolce Vita at Ravello — An Evening With Friends

by Dennis Augustine

Our longtime friends Susan and Nelson flew in from San Jose and joined Cecile and me for a wonderful dinner at Ravello at Gaylord Opryland.

Seated on the garden terrace, we were surrounded by lush greenery, soft lights and the soothing sound of cascading waterfalls. It felt like a little taste of Italy in Nashville.

We shared meatballs in marinara, house-made focaccia and wine, followed by dinner and plenty of conversation and laughter.

A sweet finish: complimentary tiramisu and vanilla ice cream, courtesy of our Marriott Bonvoy membership.

Great food, longtime friends & La Dolce Vita — Nashville style.

Waterfalls, Walkways & Bridges — Inside Gaylord Opryland 🌴 A Cool Tropical Oasis While Nashville Sizzles Outside

by Dennis Augustine

This morning, Cecile and I took an early walk through Gaylord Opryland’s lush indoor gardens, surrounded by tropical greenery, exotic plants, pedestrian bridges and cascading waterfalls.

The cool, climate-controlled atmosphere felt wonderfully refreshing as Nashville’s temperatures climbed into the 80s and 90s.

Beneath the glass atriums, winding paths, leafy gardens and rushing water created a peaceful, almost magical world of their own.

The photos capture the beauty, but the video clips bring the experience to life—the movement, sparkle and sound of the waterfalls are something special!

After our morning exploring, it was time for pool time and lunch.

Not a bad way to spend a Nashville morning!

Note: If you can’t see the video clip, double click on the title!

Checking Into Our Nashville Wonderland — Gaylord Opryland & Dinner at Solario Cantina

by Dennis Augustine

We checked into Nashville’s spectacular Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center and, thanks to our Marriott Bonvoy membership, were upgraded to a beautiful room with a balcony overlooking the atrium. What a view!

Calling it a “hotel” hardly does it justice. Beneath its soaring glass atriums lie acres of lush tropical gardens, winding waterways, fountains, and cascading waterfalls—all glowing beautifully as evening falls.

For dinner, Cecile and I enjoyed a fabulous Mexican meal at Solario Cantina, where the colorful, lively atmosphere made the experience even more fun.

Afterward, we decided to “walk off dinner” and explore the resort. With its gardens, waterfalls, lights, restaurants, and seemingly endless pathways, Gaylord Opryland feels like an adult Disneyland—without ever leaving the hotel.

And this was only our first evening in Nashville!

Our friends Nelson and Susie will be joining us tomorrow for dinner.