Six of The Best Places To Visit In Tennessee

Some people prefer vacations on sandy beaches, sunbathing and sipping on fruit cocktails, while others prefer exploring nature or hiking glorious mountains. If your vacation needs align with the latter, Tennessee is the ideal state in the U.S. 

While many assume that famous national parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone are the most popular, they'd be surprised to know that the Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is one of the most visited national parks in the country. 

That fact alone is enough to convince anyone. If you, too, are visiting Tennessee, include this fantastic national park in the must-visit list. But is that all that Tennesee offers? Not at all.  

There are lots of spots to see, and in this article, we'll highlight the six best places to visit if you're visiting this state. But, before we start, we suggest booking a place to stay. If you love nature and waking up to the fresh breeze during the day and want to camp out at night, book a cabin at least a week before your visit. 

Why? Firstly, cabins sell out quickly because tourists love staying close to nature to take the whole Tennessee experience. Second, cabins offer all the necessary amenities to make your stay comfortable, like a full kitchen, a hot tub, and a fireplace. 

Moreover, these cabins come in different sizes and budgets, so even if you're strapped for cash, you'll be able to afford one without much hassle. So book a cabin in Tennessee as soon as you can. 

1. Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, a resort-like village, is one of the most popular spots near the famed Smoky Mountains. It is the ideal spot for people who love outdoor activities. 

It offers miles of hiking and biking trails allowing you to soak up the lush terrain and see wildlife, such as deer, elk, and black bears, in their natural habitat.

But that's not all. There is a lot more to Gatlinburg than hiking and wildlife. It also contains spectacular attractions like the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway and the Gatlinburg Space Needle. If you are tired of exploring the wild, you can head off to one of the many touristy spots Gatlinburg boasts. 

2. Pigeon Forge

At first glance, Pigeon Forge may appear to be a small town with little to offer. That is certainly not true. The quaint little town has famous attractions like Dollywood, attracting families and people of all ages. There are many amusement parks, live shows, music events, and festivals to experience.  

Pigeon Forge bustles with thrill and adventure if you're down for it. If you want to enjoy the panoramic view firsthand with the wind whipping through your hair, you can ride one of the many zip lines available. 

On the other hand, if you are an avid country music fan, this is the place for you. The town hosts a variety of different music-related museums and theatres. Several performers, including actors and musicians, often perform at the Country Tonite Theatre. 

3. Chattanooga

Chattanooga is known as the "Scenic City," and it lives up to its reputation. However, that is different from what it was famous for several years back, as it was formerly known as the most severely polluted city in the USA. 

A massive amount of hard work and revitalization was required to retain its small-town charm while adding diversity. 

If you want a lush space with delectable southern food that also serves as a technological hub, Chattanooga is the ultimate place to visit. Not only can you explore the natural attractions like the mesmerizing sunsets from Lookout Mountain, but you can also expand your knowledge regarding how civil war soldiers built trains. 

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park combines history and natural beauty to create an area that extends well over Tennessee to North Carolina. It occupies 522,419 acres of land, which is a sight to see. 

If you are intrigued by the history of human settlers, the Smoky Mountains National Park is where Paleo Indians resided before Europe settlers took over in the 19th century.

Moving on, if you are looking for family-friendly activities, you must visit Rainbow Falls, as it is an ideal spot for a picturesque picnic. You and the family can also engage in outdoor activities such as riding bikes, hiking on the beautiful trails winding through the trees, and even fishing if you are patient.  

5. Memphis

If you want to take a break from nature and immerse yourself in city life for a while, Memphis is the place to do it. It is a haven for music lovers who appreciate genres like hip hop, rock n' roll, blues, and soul music. 

The famous Sun Studio originated here and propelled various famous musicians like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash to stardom, helping them become living legends. 

One of the most exciting things to do here is to listen to the live crooning of budding musicians lining up along Beale Street. Food lovers can taste mouth-watering buttery grits and delicious barbeque as they enjoy the music.

Aside from the music culture, the city is renowned for its remembrance of the impactful civil rights movement wherein Martin Luther King Jr. strived to acquire equal rights for the hopeless Black sanitation workers. 

The peaceful protest turned violent when he was murdered in the Lorraine Hotel, now termed the National Civil Rights Museum.

6. Nashville

It is simply impossible to visit Tennessee and not explore its capital city. Nashville is also famed for its historic music culture. If you want to party and enjoy the nightlife, there are many bars lining Broadway with talented, unexplored artists to provide entertainment. 

There are several fantastic restaurants and coffee shops where you can enjoy a quiet evening packed with Southern cooking that will leave you yearning for more. The best way to explore its main sights is to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum along with the Grand Ole Opry.

To Conclude

Tennessee is an ideal spot if you are a thrill seeker, want to immerse yourself in nature, or are an avid fan of music. The state boasts stunning mountainous views, lush landscapes, and lively bars to provide a mixed variety of entertainment. 

Whether you want to sleep under the open sky or walk along the bustling Broadway, this state will never disappoint.