Summer drives across Tennessee always feel like a chance to reconnect—with the land, the rivers, and the quiet rhythms of small-town life. One of my favorite surprises during these road trips isn’t just a hike or hidden swimming hole, but an old-fashioned ferry ride that breaks up the drive and gives me a slow moment to soak in the scenery. While ferries might not be the first thing that comes to mind when people talk about Tennessee travel, they are among the most rewarding and memorable experiences the state has to offer.
In fact, the Best Scenic Ferry Rides in Tennessee aren’t just about getting from one point to another—they’re about slowing down, floating across a story-filled river, and glimpsing a piece of Tennessee that’s stayed true to its roots. Whether I’m sitting in my car on deck or standing at the edge with a camera in hand, I’ve come to love these ferry crossings as a meaningful part of exploring the state.
The Ferry Legacy in Tennessee
Ferries have been part of Tennessee’s transportation history since the early 1800s. In a state divided by powerful rivers like the Mississippi, Tennessee, and Cumberland, ferries once served as vital connections between communities, traders, and travelers. While most of those ferries have been replaced by modern bridges, a few still operate today—providing not only a means of crossing water but a scenic, tranquil moment that captures the soul of the region.
Every time I board one, I get that sense of stepping back in time. It’s not just about nostalgia, though. These ferry rides offer some of the best views of Tennessee’s riverscapes, with wildlife, historic structures, and pure Southern charm lining the banks.
Benton–Houston Ferry – A Quiet Crossing on the Tennessee River
One of my favorite ferry crossings is the Benton–Houston Ferry that links Benton and Houston Counties over the Tennessee River. This rural route might not draw big crowds, but that’s exactly why I love it. The views of the wide river and the thick, unspoiled woods surrounding the banks make the ride feel almost meditative.
I’ve often timed my crossing just before sunset. The golden light stretches across the water, and I’ve seen herons standing statue-still in the shallows while fish leap and splash nearby. Sometimes it’s just me, the river, and the hum of the ferry’s engine. It doesn’t get more peaceful than that. Of all the Best Scenic Ferry Rides in Tennessee, this one holds a special place in my heart for its serenity and natural beauty.
Cumberland City Ferry – Where Industry Meets Nature
In Stewart County, the Cumberland City Ferry crosses the Cumberland River just outside the small town of Cumberland City. It’s a short ride, but it brings together two elements of Tennessee life you don’t often see side-by-side: nature and industry. On one bank, the massive TVA steam plant rises like a giant; on the other, rolling farmland and forest give way to distant hills.
What keeps me coming back here isn’t just the ride itself, but the photography opportunities. I’ve captured mist floating off the water in the morning, dramatic reflections of the plant in the river at dusk, and hawks gliding over the trees. The contrasts along this route make it one of the Best Scenic Ferry Rides in Tennessee, where raw natural beauty mingles with Tennessee’s economic backbone.
Bell’s Ferry – A Rustic Route with Local Flavor
Bell’s Ferry, located near Kingston on Watts Bar Lake, offers another picturesque and rustic ride that I never get tired of. While small and simple, this ferry provides sweeping views of the lake’s tree-lined banks and the Appalachian foothills in the distance. It’s a popular crossing for locals, but tourists often miss it unless they’re venturing off the main highways.
I’ve chatted with other passengers—usually fishermen, farmers, or bikers on weekend rides—and heard plenty of great stories. More than once I’ve brought along a picnic and eaten lunch in the car as we drifted across the calm water. Bell’s Ferry feels like the kind of place where time slows down just enough to catch your breath. For anyone craving peaceful views and a connection to real Tennessee life, this is one of the Best Scenic Ferry Rides in Tennessee.
Hickman Ferry – A Slice of Mississippi River Charm
The Hickman Ferry isn’t just a Tennessee experience—it’s also Kentucky’s, but I include it here because it connects Tiptonville, Tennessee with Hickman, Kentucky across the mighty Mississippi River. The size and grandeur of this river are impossible to ignore. Riding the ferry here is humbling in the best way. The water stretches to the horizon, barges crawl slowly in the distance, and you can feel the weight of centuries of trade, migration, and culture.
This route always makes me feel like I’m part of something much bigger. Standing on deck, watching the muddy current roll past, I get that sense of awe that only the Mississippi can provide. It’s also one of the best places to watch birdlife—I’ve seen bald eagles, pelicans, and countless gulls here. For big river views and rich historical atmosphere, the Hickman Ferry easily earns its place among the Best Scenic Ferry Rides in Tennessee.
Ferry Crossings and Summer Drives
Incorporating ferry rides into my summer drives has become a tradition. These crossings offer more than transportation—they create space for reflection, conversation, and observation. I like to build a route that includes stops at state parks, riverside diners, and scenic overlooks, using ferries as connectors that add a bit of flair and heritage to the trip.
I’ve found that kids love them too. There’s something about driving onto a boat and crossing the water that adds an element of magic to a road trip. And unlike bridges, ferries demand patience. You wait. You board. You cross. You slow down—something that feels rare in today’s fast-moving world.
Wildlife and Photography on the Water
Some of my best wildlife photos have come from ferry decks. The slow pace allows for steady shots, and the access to remote water sections means you often see animals that avoid more populated areas. Whether it’s deer sipping at the bank, turtles sunning on driftwood, or egrets taking flight just feet away, these are the scenes I cherish.
The lighting over water is always changing too. Early morning and late afternoon create mirror-like reflections and soft tones that turn an average photo into a masterpiece. I keep my camera ready during every ride—and I’ve never regretted it.
The Future of Tennessee’s Ferries
Many of these ferries are county-run and operate thanks to dedicated local funding and maintenance. There’s always the risk that low ridership or budget cuts could affect them, which is why I make it a point to support them when I can. Sharing these routes with others, talking to ferry workers, and even contributing to local tourism helps keep these floating treasures alive.
Tennessee may not have dozens of operating ferries left, but the ones that remain are deeply woven into the state’s story. They offer access to scenic areas that would otherwise be hard to reach and provide a kind of experience that modern highways can’t replicate.
Planning a Ferry Day Trip
If you’re thinking about exploring the Best Scenic Ferry Rides in Tennessee, here are a few planning tips:
- Check schedules ahead of time: Many ferries operate on specific hours or days and may close for maintenance or high water. Local county websites often have updates.
- Bring cash if needed: While some rides are free, others charge a small fee—usually less than $5.
- Pack food and water: Some crossings are in remote areas where services are limited. I always pack snacks and a cooler just in case.
- Combine ferries with other attractions: Plan to stop at nearby parks, historic sites, or small towns along your route. That way, the ferry becomes part of a fuller experience.
- Be ready to wait: Especially in summer, ferries may fill up. I’ve waited 30 minutes or more on a busy afternoon. But I just use the time to enjoy the view.
Why Scenic Ferries Are Worth the Ride
Every time I take one of these rides, I’m reminded of how much beauty there is when you slow down and look. In a world that often prizes efficiency, the simple act of crossing a river by ferry becomes a declaration: not everything needs to be rushed.
The Best Scenic Ferry Rides in Tennessee are more than just quaint—they’re a window into the state’s geography, its history, and its heart. They’re where you meet locals, see eagles, feel the wind on your face, and remember that travel is as much about the journey as it is the destination.
So next time you’re planning a trip through Tennessee, consider skipping the bridge and catching the ferry instead. You might just find it’s the most memorable part of your day.