Paddle Board the Cumberland River, Downtown Nashville

Paddle boarding just kinda started happening the last few years, at least around here. They’ve become a staple at beach houses, lakes and I had a friend who got one for his pool. Still trying to figure that one out. But it’s strange they didn’t become popular sooner: they’re easy for clumsy people to ride, but still fun enough for adventurous people to use without getting bored. And if you do get bored, you can just jump in the water or attempt a handstand.

Big Willies Action Sports has capitalized on the paddle board’s potential by offering tours down the Cumberland River in the heart of downtown Nashville. Grab a group of friends and sign up online or just sign up solo and crash someone else’s birthday party like I did. After meeting at the river, you’ll hop in a van with the crew and they’ll take you upriver to load in, so after you paddled in the sun for hours, you end up right back at your car.

Regardless of if you’re visiting or have lived here your whole life, it’s a great way to get a different look at the city. Because unless you worked on a barge, you probably haven’t seen this view. Oh, and watch out for barges.

Visit Big Willie's Nashville to book your Cumberland River paddle board tour.