A Comprehensive Travel Guide to the Volunteer State Tennessee

Welcome, adventurous traveler, to Tennessee! Known as the Volunteer State, Tennessee is a land of rich musical heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cities. From the bluesy rhythms of Memphis to the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers a wealth of experiences for every kind of traveler. Let’s embark on an extensive journey through the best places to visit in Tennessee.

1. Nashville

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is famously known as Music City and is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and Southern charm:

Downtown Nashville: Begin your exploration on Broadway, where honky-tonk bars, live music venues, and restaurants line the streets. The atmosphere is electric, with live performances happening day and night.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Dive into the history of country music with exhibits featuring memorabilia, instruments, and recordings of legendary artists. The museum also offers tours of RCA Studio B, where many iconic hits were recorded.

Ryman Auditorium: Known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," this historic venue has hosted countless legendary performances. Take a tour to learn about its storied past and enjoy a live show in the evening.

The Parthenon: A full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon, this impressive structure houses an art museum and a massive statue of Athena. It's located in Centennial Park, a beautiful green space perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Grand Ole Opry: Attend a live radio show at this legendary venue, where country music stars and up-and-coming artists perform. The Opry is a must-visit for any country music fan.

Johnny Cash Museum: Explore the life and legacy of the Man in Black through exhibits featuring his costumes, instruments, and personal items.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park: This 19-acre park offers a scenic space to relax and learn about Tennessee’s history through its various monuments and exhibits. Don’t miss the 95-bell carillon and the World War II Memorial.

2. Memphis

Memphis, located on the Mississippi River, is a city with a rich musical heritage and a deep connection to the Civil Rights Movement:

Beale Street: Known as the Home of the Blues, Beale Street is lined with clubs, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy live blues music, delicious barbecue, and vibrant nightlife.

Graceland: Visit the home of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock 'n' Roll. The tour includes Elvis’s mansion, his car collection, and his private jets. It’s a pilgrimage for any Elvis fan.

National Civil Rights Museum: Located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum offers powerful exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing struggle for equality.

Sun Studio: Take a guided tour of the studio where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits. The studio is often referred to as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Celebrate the legacy of Stax Records and its artists, including Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & the MG’s. The museum features exhibits on the history of soul music and the artists who made it famous.

Memphis Zoo: One of the oldest and largest zoos in the country, the Memphis Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals. Highlights include the Teton Trek, Zambezi River Hippo Camp, and China exhibit with giant pandas.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited national parks in the United States:

Clingmans Dome: Drive or hike to the highest point in the park for panoramic views of the Smokies. The observation tower offers a 360-degree view that stretches over 100 miles on clear days.

Cades Cove: This scenic valley is one of the most popular destinations in the park. A 11-mile loop road offers opportunities to see wildlife like black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. Historic buildings and churches provide a glimpse into early settler life.

Laurel Falls: This popular trail leads to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall. The 2.6-mile round-trip hike is relatively easy and suitable for families.

Newfound Gap Road: Drive this scenic highway for breathtaking views of the mountains and access to several trailheads. The road passes through a variety of elevations and ecosystems.

Alum Cave Trail: Hike this challenging trail to Alum Cave Bluffs and beyond to Mount LeConte, one of the highest peaks in the park. The trail offers stunning views, unique geological features, and lush forests.

Sugarlands Visitor Center: Start your visit here to get information on park activities, maps, and exhibits on the park’s natural and cultural history. Don’t miss the short hike to Cataract Falls.

4. Chattanooga

Chattanooga, nestled along the Tennessee River, is known for its outdoor adventures, rich history, and vibrant downtown area:

Tennessee Aquarium: Explore the wonders of the aquatic world at this top-rated aquarium. The River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings feature exhibits on river ecosystems, ocean life, and a walk-through butterfly garden.

Lookout Mountain: Ride the Incline Railway to the top of Lookout Mountain for panoramic views of Chattanooga and the surrounding area. Visit Rock City Gardens, known for its unique rock formations and gardens, and Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall.

Chattanooga Riverwalk: This scenic 13-mile path follows the Tennessee River through downtown Chattanooga, offering beautiful views, parks, and public art. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.

Chattanooga Choo Choo: This historic train station turned hotel and entertainment complex offers unique accommodations, restaurants, and shops. Don’t miss the restored train cars and the Model Railroad Museum.

Hunter Museum of American Art: Perched on a bluff overlooking the Tennessee River, this museum features an impressive collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Walnut Street Bridge: One of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, this historic bridge offers beautiful views of the city and the river. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

5. Knoxville

Knoxville, home to the University of Tennessee, is a vibrant city with a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities:

Market Square: This lively square in downtown Knoxville is home to shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s a great place to enjoy live music, outdoor dining, and local events.

World's Fair Park: Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, this park features the Sunsphere, an iconic 266-foot observation tower offering panoramic views of the city. The park also has fountains, walking paths, and green spaces.

Knoxville Museum of Art: Explore the museum’s collection of contemporary art, with a focus on artists from East Tennessee. The museum also features rotating exhibitions and educational programs.

Ijams Nature Center: This 300-acre urban wilderness offers hiking and biking trails, a quarry lake, and opportunities for paddling and rock climbing. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor recreation and nature exploration.

James White's Fort: Visit this historic site to learn about the founding of Knoxville. The fort features reconstructed log cabins, period artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

Tennessee Theatre: Experience a performance at this beautifully restored historic theater, which hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and classic films.

6. Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, a family-friendly destination in the Smoky Mountains, offers a wide range of attractions and entertainment:

Dollywood: This popular theme park, owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, features thrilling rides, live shows, and Appalachian crafts. The adjacent Dollywood’s Splash Country offers water slides and pools for summer fun.

The Island in Pigeon Forge: This entertainment complex features shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel offering stunning views.

Titanic Museum Attraction: Step aboard a replica of the Titanic and explore interactive exhibits on the ship’s history, passengers, and artifacts. The museum is designed to resemble the ill-fated ocean liner.

Old Mill Square: Visit this historic gristmill, which dates back to the 1800s, and explore the shops and restaurants in the surrounding square. The Old Mill Restaurant is known for its hearty Southern cuisine.

Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster: Enjoy a thrilling ride on this mountain coaster, which winds through the scenic Smoky Mountain landscape. The coaster operates year-round and offers both day and night rides.

WonderWorks: This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits on science, art, and technology. Highlights include a space zone, an earthquake simulator, and a glow-in-the-dark ropes course.

7. Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, is a charming town with a variety of attractions and outdoor activities:

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: Ride the SkyLift to the top of Crockett Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the Smokies. The SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, offers stunning views and a thrilling experience.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Explore the wonders of the ocean at this top-rated aquarium, featuring exhibits on sharks, penguins, and colorful fish. The Shark Lagoon and Penguin Playhouse are highlights.

Ober Gatlinburg: This year-round amusement park and ski resort offers activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and a scenic chairlift. The Alpine Slide and Wildlife Encounter are popular attractions.

Anakeesta: This outdoor adventure park features treetop canopy walks, zip lines, and a scenic chairlift ride to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain. The park also offers dining, shopping, and panoramic views.

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community: Explore this 8-mile loop of studios, galleries, and shops showcasing the work of local artisans. It’s a great place to find unique handmade crafts and gifts.

Sugarlands Distilling Company: Take a tour and sample moonshine at this popular distillery, which offers a variety of flavors and spirits. The distillery also hosts live music and events.

8. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

While already mentioned, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park deserves another highlight for its extensive offerings:

Clingmans Dome: Drive or hike to the highest point in the park for panoramic views of the Smokies. The observation tower offers a 360-degree view that stretches over 100 miles on clear days.

Cades Cove: This scenic valley is one of the most popular destinations in the park. An 11-mile loop road offers opportunities to see wildlife like black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. Historic buildings and churches provide a glimpse into early settler life.

Laurel Falls: This popular trail leads to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall. The 2.6-mile round-trip hike is relatively easy and suitable for families.

Newfound Gap Road: Drive this scenic highway for breathtaking views of the mountains and access to several trailheads. The road passes through a variety of elevations and ecosystems.

Alum Cave Trail: Hike this challenging trail to Alum Cave Bluffs and beyond to Mount LeConte, one of the highest peaks in the park. The trail offers stunning views, unique geological features, and lush forests.

Sugarlands Visitor Center: Start your visit here to get information on park activities, maps, and exhibits on the park’s natural and cultural history. Don’t miss the short hike to Cataract Falls.

9. Franklin

Franklin, a charming town with a rich history, offers a mix of historic sites, vibrant downtown areas, and scenic beauty:

Downtown Franklin: Stroll down Main Street, lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants. The downtown area hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year.

Carnton: Visit this historic plantation, which served as a field hospital during the Battle of Franklin in the Civil War. The guided tours provide insights into the lives of the people who lived and worked there.

Carter House: This historic home was at the center of the Battle of Franklin. The museum offers guided tours and exhibits on the battle and its impact on the community.

Leiper’s Fork: A short drive from Franklin, this quaint village is known for its art galleries, antique shops, and country stores. It’s a great place to enjoy Southern hospitality and live music.

Natchez Trace Parkway: This scenic byway offers beautiful views, hiking trails, and historic sites. The Parkway is perfect for a leisurely drive or a bike ride.

10. Lynchburg

Lynchburg, home to the famous Jack Daniel’s Distillery, offers a unique blend of history, Southern charm, and scenic beauty:

Jack Daniel’s Distillery: Take a guided tour of the distillery to learn about the history and production process of this world-famous whiskey. The tour includes tastings and a visit to the Lynchburg Hardware & General Store.

Lynchburg Square: Explore the charming downtown square, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the Lynchburg Cake and Candy Company, known for its whiskey-infused treats.

Moore County Courthouse: Visit this historic courthouse, which dates back to the 19th century. The courthouse square hosts events and festivals throughout the year.

Cave Spring Hollow: Visit the natural spring that provides the water for Jack Daniel’s whiskey. The spring is located on the distillery grounds and is an essential part of the whiskey-making process.

Lynchburg City Cemetery: Pay your respects at the gravesite of Jack Daniel, located in this historic cemetery.