tennessee travel guides

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The essential guide to visiting Tennessee

Here’s everything you need to know before exploring the Volunteer State—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you must visit Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Lookout Mountain . Vibrant big cities and charming small towns. Country music in Nashville and the blues in Memphis . Tennessee whiskey   and Nashville hot chicken .  

Best time to visit

Spring: Warm weather brings colorful wildflowers, blooming magnolias, and flowering redbuds. Enjoy the bloom boom at the Flower   &   Food Festiva l at Dollywood or Nashville ’s Cheekwood . In April, Mule Day in Columbia features livestock races and Appalachian music, crafts, and food.

Summer: There’s a great debate about whether those glow-by-night insects are fireflies or lightning bugs , but regardless, you’ll find them making summer nights in Tennessee a little brighter, particularly in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The state is geographically landlocked, but visitors can still make a splash by launching a boat in Nashville’s Percy Priest Lake , whitewater rafting along East Tennessee’s Nolichucky River , or chasing more than 150 waterfalls in Cookeville .  

Autumn: Leaf peepers will love Tennessee’s orange, red, and golden hues in the fall. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers more than 800 miles of trails to explore by foot, or take a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway that begins in Nashville and winds south into Mississippi . Thanks to colorblind viewfinders , installed at lookouts statewide, more people can see fall foliage.  

Winter: Get cozy during colder months at one of the state’s mountain hotels and resorts. Many flock to Gatlinburg during winter for a chalet stay in the mountains or skiing at Obe r . Other overnight choices include the cabins of Windy Hill Farm , the plush wellness resort Blackberry Farm , or Coffee Ridge Resort , a new mountaintop retreat with a spa, fly-fishing, and lodgings.

Lay of the land

Major cities: Music is the common thread through Tennessee’s biggest cities, with country artists performing in every honky-tonk on Nashville’s Broadway and the blues blaring down Memphis ’ Beale Street . Adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Chattanooga ’s rock climbing and mountain biking, and Knoxville —home to the University of Tennessee —for its forested hiking trails.

Small towns: Johnson City is a jumping-off point for hiking and biking, plus a few sites related to 20th-century mobsters like Al Capone . Visit Franklin   for its     charming   main street lined with shops and restaurants, plus battlefields, hospitals, and historic homes related to the American Civil War .

Tennessee Whiskey Trail:   The   Tennessee Whiskey Trail   maps 26 of the state’s distilleries, including the famed   Jack Daniel’s Distillery   in Lynchburg. Visit the   Nearest Green Distillery   in Shelbyville , which pays tribute to Daniel’s original mentor and the first known African American master distiller, Nathan “Nearest” Green .

Getting around  

By plane: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the state’s largest, with 19 passenger airlines offering routes throughout the United States and nonstop international flights to London , Canada , and Cancun . Memphis International Airport (MEM) offers nonstop flights to cities around the U.S. and Cancun. Smaller regional airports include Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Chattanooga’s Chattanooga Airport (CHA).

By car: Tennessee has more than 1,200 miles of interstate highways , allowing travel by car to major cities and neighboring states. Major routes include I-65 from north to south , I-40 from east to west , and the slow and scenic Natchez Trace Parkway which winds from Nashville to Tupelo, Mississippi.  

By train: Tennessee offers one passenger train route connecting Memphis to both Chicago and New Orleans via Amtrak .

Know before you go

Cultural History: Tennessee is the ancestral homeland of two Indigenous groups: the Chickasaw in the west and the Cherokee in the east. The name Tennessee is derived from a Cherokee village called Tanasi. The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail runs across the state. To learn more about Tennessee’s Indigenous history, discover mounds at Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park in West Tennessee and the Mound Bottom State Archaeological Area near Nashville, or visit the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum that dives into Tennessee’s Cherokee history.  

Tennessee was the last state to join the Confederacy during the American Civil War, though residents in the east remained loyal to the Union. Outside of Virginia , Tennessee saw the most fighting of any state. Many preserved sites are available to visit today, including one of the war’s deadliest battlefields, Shiloh National Military Park .  

Tennessee cast the deciding vote that ratified the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. Nashville’s historic Hermitage Hotel housed the lobbyists from both sides of the suffrage movement and has historic artifacts throughout the property. The state also holds tragic significance in the Civil Rights movement. Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated at Memphis’ Lorraine Motel, which is now the National Civil Rights Museum . Following the Brown   v.   Board of Education   Supreme Court ruling stating state-sanctioned segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, Clinton High School in East Tennessee became the first in the South to integrate classes. Learn more about the tumultuous transition at the Green McAdoo Cultural Center .  

Cuisine: No one leaves Tennessee hungry. Southern soul food and Memphis-style barbecue are primary draws for visitors. Try an iconic “meat and three” plate, choosing between one protein option—usually including fried chicken, catfish, or pot roast—and a collection of vegetables. We use the term “vegetables” loosely here, as options include anything from macaroni and cheese to baked apples and fried okra.  

Festivals: This musical state hosts a range of tuneful festivals, including Bonnaroo Music   &   Arts Festival in Manchester, CMA Fest in Nashville, and Beale Street Music Fest in Memphis (paused for 2024).  

LGBTQ+: In the 2023 24/7 Wall St. report for LGBTQ+ friendly states, Tennessee ranked last. The state’s conservative lawmakers have passed discriminatory bills impacting transgender people and prohibiting public education institutions from requiring implicit bias training. Major cities like Nashville and Memphis regularly host Pride events, such as the Nashville Pride Pageant and the Nashville Pride Festival each June, or run the Rainbow Dash 5K in Memphis each March.  

How to visit sustainably  

Outdoors: Tennessee State Parks have implemented “ Go Green With Us ” guidelines, which focus on conservation and sustainable operations. The program encourages visitors to lower energy usage by turning off lights when not needed, planting trees to provide shade, and unplugging appliances when not in use, along with efforts like planting community gardens and using sustainably produced and packaged products.  

Dining: With vast farmlands in Tennessee, it’s not difficult to find restaurants that source their ingredients locally. Try Nashville’s Miel , which saved more than 12,000 pounds of compostable material from landfills in 2023, or The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge. Dating from 1830, The Old Mill grinds 700,000 pounds of corn, grits, and other grains annually to be used in breads, sweets, and spirits. Plus the restaurant makes its own ice creams, jams, confections, and even pottery pieces for serving.  

Lodging: Southall Farm   &   Inn in Leiper’s Fork collects rainfall to water its grounds and serves produce and meat grown onsite in its restaurants.  

What to read and watch

Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business , by Dolly Parton. The country music icon’s autobiography details her rags-to-riches story growing up in the foothills of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains.  

There are many music themed shows and biopics that focus on Tennessee artists both real and fictional, including the story of Johnny Cash in Walk the Line , the TV series Nashville , and the 2022 blockbuster Elvis .  

Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest , by Fawn Weaver. This 2024 summer release explores the forgotten history of the enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel to make whiskey.  

( For more tips on what to do in Tennessee, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

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• CULTURAL TOURISM
• FOOD TOURISM

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A shallow rectangle, just one hundred miles from north to south, TENNESSEE stretches 450 miles from the Mississippi to the Appalachians. The marshy western third of the state occupies a low plateau edging down toward the Mississippi. Only in the far southwest corner do the bluffs rise high enough to permit a sizeable riverside settlement – the exhilarating port of Memphis, the birthplace of urban blues and longtime home of Elvis. The plantation homes and dull, tidy towns of middle Tennessee’s rolling farmland reflect the comfortable lifestyle of its pioneers; smack in the heart of it sprawls hip Nashville, synonymous with country music. The mountainous east shares its top attraction with North Carolina – the peaks, streams and meadows of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Born in 1946, one of twelve children with very limited means, music legend Dolly Parton was delivered in Locust Ridge, Tennessee by a doctor who arrived on horseback and left with a sack of homegrown cornmeal as compensation. As a child she sang every week on local radio, before leaving for Nashville the day after she finished at Sevier County High School. Her first success, duetting with Porter Wagoner, came to an end in the early Seventies, but she scored a major country hit in 1973 with Jolene. She then crossed over to a poppier sound, and, with her charismatic presence, was a natural in Hollywood films including 9 to 5 (the beat for whose theme song she came up with by tapping on her fingernails) and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Always a strong-minded and inspirational figure, Dolly has sold more than 100 million records, written more than three thousand songs, and been awarded seven Grammys. Dollywood, her “homespun fun” theme park at 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd in Pigeon Forge (dollywood.com), blends mountain heritage with roller coasters and the merriment of its celebrity shareholder. One section showcases Appalachian crafts; a museum looks at Dolly herself in entertaining detail; music shows are constantly on the go and the thrill rides offer plenty for adrenaline-junkies and kiddies alike. A water park, Dolly’s Splash Country, is adjacent.

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35 top things to do in tennessee.

Get inspired to plan your next vacation to the Volunteer State.

Top Things to Do in Tennessee

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Spend a few days exploring several top destinations or take an epic vacation to experience all that the great state of Tennessee has to offer.

Tennessee's abundant beauty, rich history and music culture are just a few reasons to visit the Volunteer State. There are also natural wonders, outdoor adventures and top-notch attractions beckoning nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. During your visit, be sure to sample the state's famous barbecue, sip a little whiskey, listen to some live music and enjoy a healthy dose of Southern hospitality along the way. Here's a list of the must-see Tennessee attractions and experiences.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

With more than 522,000 acres of forest, mountains, waterfalls and wildlife stretching across Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. The park boasts 850 miles of backcountry trails and features about 70 miles of the Appalachian Trail: Top hikes include the 5.4-mile round trip to Rainbow Falls and a steep climb up to the summit of Chimney Tops for sweeping mountain views. Also not to be missed is Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park – and in Tennessee – at more than 6,600 feet in elevation. Note that the road to the tower is closed during the winter months.

Thousands of species of animals and plant life flourish in the park, including elk, deer, black bears and more than 1,600 varieties of wildflowers. For a fully immersive Great Smoky Mountains experience, make reservations to camp: Cades Cove Campground is situated in a gorgeous valley with ample wildlife-watching opportunities and an 11-mile route you can explore by car, bicycle or on foot.

See more of Great Smoky Mountains National Park:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Courtesy of The Peabody Memphis

Known to many as the birthplace of both the blues and rock 'n' roll, Memphis is all about music. Top-rated attractions include Beale Street (where live music venues abound), the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, Graceland, Sun Studio and more. Sun Studio visitors say that the former recording studio, though small, packs in a lot of information, and listening to the old music clips from legends like Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis is priceless.

The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel is another one of the city's top attractions, along with a riverboat cruise on the "Mighty" Mississippi. Book accommodations at The Peabody Memphis and watch the famous Peabody Ducks as they strut their stuff down the lobby's red carpet to the hotel fountain daily. When it comes to Tennessee barbecue, grab lunch or dinner across from The Peabody at the iconic Rendezvous, which has been serving up Memphis-style ribs since 1948.

See more of Memphis:  Things to Do | Tours |  Hotels

Fans from all over the world make the pilgrimage to Graceland to visit the home of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley. The bustling entertainment complex in Memphis boasts 120 acres of museums and memorabilia dedicated to the legendary performer. You'll need tickets to access Graceland and its collections of Elvis' cars, jets, jumpsuits and other artifacts. Consider splurging on the "Ultimate VIP Tour" package for an expert-led tour of Graceland Mansion as well as access to a VIP-only exhibit and other exclusive perks that travelers say are worth the money. Recent visitors also recommend allowing for at least half a day to see most everything.

Movie fans may want to visit Graceland for the "Making of ELVIS Movie Exhibition." Open through Sept. 4, 2023, this special exhibit features behind-the-scenes insight into the making of the film, along with props, costumes worn by the actors and set pieces. After you explore, plan to stay at The Guest House at Graceland to enjoy all of the highlights, memorabilia, Elvis-themed events and live concerts.

Address: 3717 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis, TN 38116

Read: The Best Graceland Tours and Tips for Visiting

Country music fan favorites in the city of Nashville include the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium and the Johnny Cash Museum. Head to famous honky-tonks along Broadway like the iconic Tootsie's Orchid Lounge and Robert's Western World to see up-and-coming artists and maybe even get a chance celebrity sighting. Then, duck into themed signature bars and restaurants owned by top country artists like Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton and Dierks Bentley (plus a Garth Brooks-owned bar slated to open in 2023).

While on Broadway, visit the National Museum of African American Music to learn about a variety of genres. For the full Nashville experience, visit one of the city's famed listening rooms, such as the legendary Bluebird Cafe, where songwriters including the likes of Taylor Swift and Keith Urban perform original songs and share stories.

But there's more to Music City than its tunes. Reserve a room at The Union Station Nashville Yards – favored by visitors for its historic architecture and prime location near downtown – then bring your appetite to Assembly Food Hall. The building features international and locally inspired eateries, cocktails, incredible rooftop views and live music. You'll also want to set aside time to visit more of the city's museums, including the Parthenon replica, Frist Art Museum and the Tennessee State Museum. Venture to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, where history and botanical experiences await, and end your Nashville adventure with a dinner showboat cruise on the General Jackson.

See more of Nashville:  Things to Do  | Tours  |  Hotels

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Courtesy of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

History enthusiasts and country music devotees alike will appreciate the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , a top Nashville attraction. A stop at the three-story building begins with exploring the museum gallery's permanent and rotating exhibits, which highlight the genre from its early beginnings to country music's biggest celebrities. You'll see a variety of clothing, instruments and memorabilia such as Elvis Presley's Gold Cadillac and Garth Brooks' guitar, interspersed with sound and video clips. There's a wall of gold and platinum albums, plus the Hall of Fame Rotunda with plaques of all the inductees. Before your visit, be sure to check the calendar for "Songwriter Sessions" in the museum's Ford Theater, concerts in the CMA Theater or special programs in the Taylor Swift Education Center.

While at the museum, consider a Hatch Show Print tour to explore a working letterpress print shop dating back to 1879. If you're looking to stay nearby, the Omni Nashville is connected via indoor walkway to the museum. What's more, you can add a tour of RCA Studio B (a short shuttle ride away to Music Row) to learn more about the recording process and get a music history lesson detailing all the artists from Elvis to Dolly Parton who recorded within those walls.

Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville, TN 37203

Pigeon Forge

This little mountain town at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains has kept families entertained with thrill rides, outdoor activities, music and dining for many years. Pigeon Forge may be best known for Dollywood, but many other tourist attractions and culinary options are worth exploring as well. Roller coaster enthusiasts will want to check out Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show & Adventure Park, home to the zip line coaster Flying Ox.

The Island in Pigeon Forge is another family-friendly entertainment center that has rides, escape rooms, shopping and dining. Be sure to take a spin on SkyFly: Soar America, an indoor theater adventure that soars high above iconic U.S. locations. While in town, plan to stay at The Inn on the River Hotel. Situated on 3 acres on the Little Pigeon River, this property is a traveler favorite for its great hospitality and close proximity to restaurants, shopping and top attractions.

See more of Pigeon Forge:  Things to Do  | Dinner Shows |  Hotels

Courtesy of Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

Named after, inspired by and partially owned by country star Dolly Parton, Pigeon Forge's Dollywood offers 160 acres of kid-friendly thrill rides, live shows, entertainment and plenty of Southern-inspired dining. In May, the park will debut Big Bear Mountain − its longest roller coaster at almost 4,000 feet, themed around the region's black bears. Dollywood's Splash Country, the water park, features mountain views, a 1,500-foot lazy river and exciting waterslides.

Stay nearby at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort or opt for one of the property's luxury log cabins. If you're visiting in late 2023 or beyond, consider Parton's second resort, HeartSong Lodge & Resort, scheduled to open in November. Guests of DreamMore enjoy comfortable accommodations and various dining options; those with a valid Dollywood ticket receive a TimeSaver Pass, complimentary transportation from the parks and other amenities. Travelers appreciate all the family entertainment and the friendly staff.

Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

See: The Best Water Parks in the USA

Chattanooga

Chattanooga sits on the banks of the Tennessee River in the Appalachian Mountains, bordering Georgia. The city boasts impressive museums, a vibrant downtown area, and lively shopping and arts districts. Major attractions in Chattanooga include the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Zoo, Lookout Mountain and the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, the oldest and largest of the U.S. Civil War parks. Save time to explore the city's railroad heritage too, with a stay at the Chattanooga Choo Choo , a railway station-turned-hotel, as well as train rides at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

"Coolidge Park is a must in Chattanooga – particularly if you're visiting with kids," recommends Amanda Norcross , travel content and SEO strategist at U.S. News. "The interactive water fountains are so much fun and the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day." She also notes how easy it is to get around Chattanooga: "The Chattanooga Riverwalk essentially connects all of the city's top attractions and neighborhoods, and there's always some type of event (or several) going on by the water – concerts, festivals, you name it."

See more of Chattanooga:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Tennessee Aquarium

Take a journey from the mountains to the sea at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. In one building, explore the mountains and rivers of east Tennessee in River Journey, then travel to the sea in Ocean Journey (a building all its own). With more than 10,000 animals here, you can expect to see river otters, lemurs, penguins, sharks, colorful fish and octopuses. In the "River Giants" exhibit, there are freshwater fish from around the world that grow to monstrous proportions. What's more, the "Turtle of the World" gallery has the most extensive collection of turtles of any accredited zoo or aquarium in the U.S.

For a real treat, book the guided "Deeper Dives" tour, which takes you behind the scenes before the aquarium opens. You'll also want to catch an immersive show at the IMAX Theater. Patrons call the Tennessee Aquarium a world-class facility, with some even praising it as one of the best aquariums they've visited.

Address: 1 Broad St., Chattanooga, TN 37402

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail in Tennessee

Jeffrey S. Otto | Courtesy of Tennessee Department of Tourist Development & Journal Communications

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail covers 15 states and more than 100 locations that were significant to the civil rights movement – and you'll find more than a dozen of these locales in Tennessee. In Memphis, visit a handful of sites including the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel as well as Clayborn Temple next to I AM A MAN Plaza, where sanitation workers protested in 1968. Then, travel a little more than 200 miles northeast to visit Nashville's seven stops, ranging from the Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library to the National Museum of African American Music .

Complete your journey across the state in Clinton, about 175 miles east of Nashville, to learn about the Clinton 12 at the Green McAdoo Cultural Center. After the Supreme Court's Brown v. Board of Education ruling, these 12 Black students stepped inside an all-white public high school in August 1956, making it the first integrated school in the South. Visitors to the cultural center say it's very well done and expressed that their visit was a moving experience.

Titanic Museum Attraction

Courtesy of Titanic Museum Attraction

Owned and curated by the man who co-led the diving expedition to the Titanic in 1987, this impressive museum in Pigeon Forge brings the history of the legendary ship to life. The top-rated Titanic Museum Attraction houses artifacts from the Titanic Historical Society, maintaining more than 400 relics and memorabilia from the ship.

The exterior of the building is about half-scale of the actual ship size, but the interior re-created rooms are true to life. Inside, you'll find an exact replica of the Grand Staircase as well as galleries filled with information about the ship and stories from survivors. There's even a Memorial Room dedicated to the more than 2,200 passengers and crew members. Travelers suggest spending at least two hours here to hear the emotional stories of the survivors and better understand what happened that fateful evening in April 1912.

Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Lookout Mountain

Situated just minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain's attractions focus on the immediate area's natural beauty. Located deep within the mountain, Ruby Falls has the tallest and deepest underground waterfall in the U.S. Explore the cave and the falls on a tour, after which you can brave the climbing tower or a zip line adventure. The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway will also get your adrenaline pumping as the more than 125-year-old funicular railway climbs Lookout Mountain. After a mile-long ride, hop off at the top of the mountain to take in the views of the Tennessee Valley from the overlook at the observation deck.

Just over the state line, Rock City Gardens, one of the top things to do in Georgia , boasts panoramic views and other attractions atop Lookout Mountain. "Rock City Gardens is especially fun at Christmastime, when it hosts the Enchanted Garden of Lights," Norcross says. "The Fairyland Caverns display feels almost otherworldly!" Other travelers say Lookout Mountain is worth a visit and the vantage point from the mountaintop is incredible.

Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Since pre-Civil War times, Tennessee has long been known for its whiskey. Today, there are more than 30 distilleries and 800-plus miles of scenic landscapes to cover on the statewide Tennessee Whiskey Trail. In fact, the trail's official website estimates you'll need 14 days to visit all the spots, and you can register for an analog or digital whiskey passport to collect stamps. The complete itinerary includes stops in and around Nashville, Knoxville, the Smoky Mountains, Chattanooga and Memphis. Be sure not to miss the Lynchburg and Tullahoma area, home to the historic George Dickel and Jack Daniel's distilleries.

In between stops, check out Civil War battlegrounds, live music venues, local food favorites and hidden gems in smaller towns, as well as state parks with outdoor adventures. For accommodations in Memphis, consider staying at the outdoor-themed, pyramid-shaped Big Cypress Lodge , which affords views of the Mississippi River. The historic Hermitage Hotel is a top choice in Nashville, while in the Knoxville area The Oliver Hotel is a traveler favorite due to its close proximity to Market Square.

The Parthenon

Located in Centennial Park in Nashville's West End, the Parthenon is the only exact replica in the world of the ancient temple in Athens, Greece . Regarded as the park's centerpiece, the Parthenon was constructed as a temporary structure in 1897 to celebrate 100 years of Tennessee statehood. In 1920, after Nashville had been known for years as the "Athens of the South," the Parthenon was rebuilt with the help of a local architect and an architectural historian.

Since the 1930s, the Parthenon has hosted rotating art exhibits in its galleries; today, as Nashville's art museum, it continues to feature temporary exhibitions and shows. The museum's permanent collections include paintings by 19th- and 20th-century American artists as well as 14 casts of the Parthenon Marbles. You'll also find an impressive replica of the Athena Parthenos statue from ancient Greece. The Parthenon and this statue are a must-see, according to traveler reviews.

Address: 2500 West End Ave., Nashville, TN 37203

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest

The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is one of the beloved events that takes place during the Memphis in May International Festival. The contest dates back to 1978, when it began in a parking lot with just 20 teams. In 2022, the four-day event brought more than 200 competition cooking teams from 24 states and four foreign countries to compete. So, if you're craving all things pork and want to see unique themed team tents and live entertainment while having a bit of over-the-top fun, head to Tom Lee Park along the banks of the Mississippi River in May. In 2023, the festival will run from May 17 to 20.

Josh Brasted | Courtesy of Country Music Association

June is also a busy month in Tennessee, with the four-day CMA Fest as one of the top events in the state. The annual Nashville event began as Fan Fair with 5,000 people in attendance; tens of thousands of attendees now come from all over to see more than 260 performers. The fan-favorite event is celebrating 50 years in 2023, and attendees can see award-winning and chart-topping artists like Carly Pearce, Lainey Wilson, Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Tim McGraw – as well as emerging country artists. The event takes place in downtown Nashville and features six daytime and two nighttime stages, including larger venues like Nissan Stadium alongside indoor venues at Music City Center. You also won't want to miss the neon lights of the honky-tonks and festivities along Nashville's famous entertainment district on Broadway Street.

"Travelers should expect a party atmosphere if they choose to visit Nashville during CMA Fest," says Marisa Méndez , a senior travel editor at U.S. News and CMA Fest attendee. "You'll encounter massive crowds of music fans (with expensive hotel rates to boot) and the tradeoff is a slew of excellent concerts. If you aren't a diehard country music fan or you dislike massive crowds (like me!) then choose another time to visit."

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Natchez Trace Parkway

Set off from Nashville on a scenic journey along this 444-mile recreational road. Meandering through three states, this national parkway roughly follows the "Old Natchez Trace," a historic route once used by Indigenous people, European settlers, soldiers and more. Along the way, travelers can experience camping, biking, hiking and horseback riding while soaking in all the natural beauty. There are a variety of short trails along the parkway to explore waterfalls, natural wonders and historic landmarks.

The Lost Sea

Jeff Adkins | Courtesy of Journal Communications Inc.

Travel 140 feet below ground to see the largest underground lake in America. The aptly named Lost Sea sits about 50 miles southwest of Knoxville in Sweetwater. The 75-minute guided tour begins with a short walk that past travelers say can be challenging, so wear comfortable nonslip shoes. As the guides explain the history of the cavern, you'll learn how geological factors created the rare formations and cavern rooms. At the end of the tour, hop on a boat ride to see the clear waters of this 70-foot-deep lake spread across more than 13 acres of water. Visitors comment that walking through the cave is a great experience, but seeing the lake is what's truly worth the price of admission.

A stop in Sweetwater could be a daytrip from Knoxville, but you can also linger longer by renting a cabin or cottage. Sweetwater's historic district has unique shops and boutiques to peruse, and don't miss a visit to Sweetwater Valley Farm's cafe to enjoy farm-fresh dairy specialties.

Address: 140 Lost Sea Road, Sweetwater, TN 37874

Located around 20 miles south of downtown Nashville, Franklin is a must-visit for history buffs, shoppers and music lovers alike. The Battle of Franklin – one of the Civil War's bloodiest battles – occurred here, and visitors can learn all about it with a trip to the well-preserved Civil War sites of Carnton, Carter House and the Lotz House. The 16-block historic downtown is an idyllic destination for shopping, dining, intimate songwriter rounds, art and special events. For a classic Southern meal, grab a bite to eat at Puckett's Restaurant with its laid-back atmosphere and live music.

Consider an overnight stay at The Harpeth, where travelers say the staff and accommodations are exceptional; many also praise the on-site bar and restaurant. Vinophiles may want to venture to some of middle Tennessee's vineyards, including the award-winning Arrington Vineyards. You can sample the wines, have an outdoor picnic and catch live music on weekends in the warmer months.

The Memphis Zoo

Phillip Van Zandt | Courtesy of The Memphis Zoo

Located in Memphis' Overton Park, the Memphis Zoo has been a major attraction since 1906. The zoo's property covers nearly 80 acres and is home to more than 500 species of animals that reside in various zones and exhibits. In Cat Country, you can view elusive snow leopards, African lions and near-threated jaguars. The China exhibition encompasses 3 acres and features Asian wildlife including Francois langurs and Sulawesi crested macaques.

See: The Best Zoos in the U.S.

The Hermitage

Courtesy of The Andrew Jackson Foundation

Located about 10 miles northeast of Nashville, The Hermitage – not to be confused with Nashville's Hermitage Hotel – is a 1,120-acre property and mansion that President Andrew Jackson and his wife, Rachel, once called home. Jackson lived at The Hermitage from 1804 – when he purchased the property as a 425-acre plantation, relying on the labor of enslaved Black people – until his death in 1845. Over the years, the mansion has undergone extensive renovations and additions.

Today, the house features most of Jackson's personal artifacts. Several tour options of the mansion and its grounds are available, including two different tours that teach visitors about the lives of the enslaved men, women and children who worked on this plantation and generated Jackson's wealth. Travelers say the tours are a very informative and educational experience; they also appreciate how much history is preserved at the property. Don't miss the exhibits at the visitor center, and before leaving be sure to sample wines from the Natchez Hills Vineyard and Winery tasting room at The Hermitage.

Address: 4580 Rachel's Lane, Hermitage, TN 37076

Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is the perfect base for outdoor adventure. The Sugarlands entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just outside of downtown, but there's many exciting things to do while in this part of east Tennessee. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area offers year-round family fun with amusement rides, an aerial tramway, ice skating, snow tubing, skiing and other activities. Many patrons enjoy this attraction, though they warn it can get overcrowded, so aim for weekdays and other off-peak times.

During your jaunt in Gatlinburg you can also visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, walk a 680-foot-long suspension bridge at Skylift Park, and zip to the top of Anakeesta theme park on the Chondola. For an extended stay, make reservations at the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg or The Lodge at Buckberry Creek , two of the top hotels in Gatlinburg . Then, wake up early to beat the crowds at the iconic Pancake Pantry, Tennessee's first specialty pancake restaurant.

Spend the night in a treehouse

Courtesy of Sanctuary Treehouse Resort

Opened in spring 2023, Sanctuary Treehouse Resort is touted as the largest treehouse resort in the world. Set amid 40 acres of picturesque land in the Smoky Mountains, the property has a variety of luxurious treehouses for couples and families, with whimsical amenities like rope swings, escape hatches, slides and hidden beds. Located on two championship golf courses, the property is ideally situated near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Resort guests can choose from three types of tree houses, including the family-friendly Tree Fort with room for up to six guests, as well as the Luxe, which is geared toward couples with an outdoor tub.

Address: 107 Pheasant Ridge Road, Sevierville, TN 37876

Learn about Native American history

Courtesy of Sequoyah Birthplace Museum

Native Americans have inhabited the land of Tennessee for about 12,000 years. Many places in the state, such as Chattanooga and Tullahoma, have names of Indigenous origin – even "Tennessee" itself derives from a Cherokee word for "where the river bends." Today, you can explore Native American heritage across the state.

Plan to begin your journey in the town of Vonore at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum. Located around 35 miles southwest of Knoxville, this museum is owned and operated by the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation and pays tribute to Sequoyah, who is best remembered for creating the Cherokee writing system. Also on-site is the Cherokee Memorial, where archaeological remains from former Cherokee towns of the 18th century are buried. Afterward, plan to visit The Tanasi Memorial, where Tennessee's namesake – a former Cherokee village – is commemorated 12 miles southeast of the museum.

Part of the more than 5,000-mile Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, which spans nine states, runs through Tennessee. In the 1830s, the U.S. government forced Native American tribes across the Southeast to relocate from their ancestral homelands to west of the Mississippi River; the ensuing journey became known as the Trail of Tears. Throughout Tennessee, you'll find more than a dozen places to visit to learn more about the horrific trek, including the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park in Birchwood. Visitors to this site, located in the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge, comment that it's a beautiful and much-needed memorial to Native Americans.

The Caverns

Katherine Brown | Courtesy of The Caverns

Home to the TV series "The Caverns Sessions" (formerly "Bluegrass Underground"), The Caverns is an otherworldly cave system that boasts more than 8,000 linear feet of passageways in Pelham, around 60 miles northwest of Chattanooga. During the day, take a guided tour of the caves for a behind-the-scenes look at the underground concert venue as well as one of the world's largest underground rooms. Adrenaline-seekers can book the Adventure Cave Tour, a true spelunking trip where few have gone before.

At night, listen to top music acts in Big Mouth Cave. The concert hall serves food and brews and is also accessible for music fans with mobility issues. Reviewers call the underground concert experience unique and fun. Extend your visit with the "Stay & Cave" package, which includes lodging, ground transportation and other amenities.

Address: 555 Charlie Roberts Road, Pelham, TN 37366

The eastern city of Knoxville is home to outdoor adventure, museums, history and a vibrant arts scene. Plan to stay a few days at The Tennessean , a hotel centrally located downtown. Then, walk over to Market Square, where you can explore the shopping, dining and entertainment options. Other highlights in the city include the Sunsphere tower's Observation Deck at World's Fair Park, the East Tennessee History Center and the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture.

For outdoor enthusiasts, visit what the city has dubbed its Urban Wilderness. The collection of open-air attractions features 50 miles of trails, lakes and parks as well as a 500-acre wildlife area; Ijams Nature Center is ideal for hiking, biking, fishing and rock climbing. Finally, Civil War and history buffs can chart out a visit to battlefields like Fort Sanders or plot a driving tour of the area's Civil War sites.

See more of Knoxville:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Known as the "Secret City," Oak Ridge quickly developed on a tract of rural farmland purchased by the government during World War II. More than 100,000 people of various professions were brought to this city to work on the top-secret Manhattan Project, unaware the devastating atomic bomb they were producing would end WWII.

While in town, plan to explore this significant part of U.S. history at the Oak Ridge History Museum and the K-25 History Center, which travelers appreciate for being well done and informative. Other fun things to do in Oak Ridge include off-road adventures at Windrock Park and bike riding, jogging, fishing or swimming at Melton Lake Park.

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival

Courtesy of Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival

The first Bonnaroo festival took place in 2002, with its name inspired by a Dr. John album; the Creole slang word "bonnaroo" translates roughly to "best on the street." The annual music, arts and camping event convenes with as many as 80,000 festivalgoers on the 650-acre Bonnaroo Farm in Manchester, about 65 southeast of Nashville.

The four-day Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival typically occurs in mid-June: In 2023, it runs from June 14 to 18. This event features more than 150 musicians performing on 10 stages; four camping barns; and nonstop entertainment, food and parties. Expect to see and hear everything from rock to hip-hop to jazz. Past performers have included Bob Dylan, Jay-Z, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, Eminem, Radiohead and U2.

Address: 1560 New Bushy Branch Road, Manchester, TN 37355

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Located around 70 miles north of Chattanooga in Spencer, Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of the largest and most visited state parks in Tennessee, with nearly 30,000 acres spanning the top of the Cumberland Plateau. The park's rugged terrain boasts gorges, streams, lush hardwood forests and waterfalls such as the 256-foot-high Fall Creek Falls. There are more than 50 miles of hiking trails, including two overnight, long-distance routes.

The Nature Center at Fall Creek Falls hosts naturalist-led programs with activities like campfires, games, live music, movies and more. Visitors say the park is beautiful and the walk to see the falls from the overlook is short and pleasant, while the hike to the base of the waterfall can be challenging. Plan to stay a few days in one of the 30 cabins or camp outdoors under the stars at your choice of more than 200 campsites. For less rustic accommodations, reserve one of the guest rooms at the Lodge at Fall Creek Falls.

Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Courtesy of Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, situated about 40 miles northwest of Knoxville in Petros, was Tennessee's first maximum-security prison, known as the "End of the Line." The facility offers self-guided tours that cover 30 stations and stories throughout the prison. Guests can visit most parts of the prison, including the cell block, cafeteria, laundry room, exercise yard and the "HOLE," where inmates were sent for solitary confinement in complete darkness.

Former inmates and prison guards are stationed throughout the prison to share stories of life in Brushy and give guided tours, which you must book in advance. The more adventurous explorers may enjoy an overnight paranormal tour. Most travelers find the guide-led tours interesting and educational. Sample the End of the Line moonshine at the on-site distillery or dine at the Southern-inspired Warden's Table restaurant. Note that this site closes for the winter.

Address: 9182 state Route 116, Petros, TN 37845

Discovery Park of America

Courtesy of Discovery Park of America

Discovery Park of America will entertain family members of all ages. You'll want at least one full day to visit this 100,000-square-foot museum and the surrounding 50-acre heritage park in Union City, about 115 miles northwest of Memphis. Indoor exhibits include 10 galleries and interactive displays highlighting everything from technology and space to art and regional history. Discovery Park also offers a 20,000-gallon aquarium, a theater and the tallest observation tower in the area.

Go outside to visit a replica 19th-century frontier settlement or see a gristmill in action in a re-created early-1900s town. You can also wander through Japanese and European gardens and explore a train station. The park even has a river, waterfalls and a playground inspired by nature. Visitors say the museum is worth a visit and that it's both educational and great fun. If you have time, visit Union City's historic downtown area or check out nearby Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot Lake State Park in Tiptonville. For an overnight stay, reserve accommodations at a hotel in Union City or set up camp near Reelfoot Lake.

Address: 830 Everett Blvd., Union City, TN 38261

See: Excellent Educational Vacations for Families

Museum of Appalachia

Courtesy of Museum of Appalachia

The 65-acre Museum of Appalachia in Clinton is a living history museum that makes for a perfect daytrip from Knoxville, since it's about 25 miles northwest. This authentic mountain farm and pioneer village, a Smithsonian Affiliate, features 35 log cabins, barns, churches and schools; its more than 250,000 artifacts compose collections of folk art, musical instruments and more. You can also stroll through several gardens and see free-range farm animals. Be sure to check out the indoor exhibits, including the Hall of Fame building, which honors interesting individuals with a connection to the Southern Appalachians.

Tourgoers are impressed with the informative exhibits and myriad artifacts, saying they come away with an appreciation for the history and lives of the Southern Appalachian people and their culture. Plan to spend a few hours at the museum. After your tour, take a walk by the Clinch River, visit Clinton's antiques district and then head over to Hoskins Drug Store, where you'll find an old-fashioned lunch counter and soda fountain.

Address: 2819 Andersonville Highway, Clinton, TN 37716

Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

Courtesy of Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

This historic Greek Revival mansion and surrounding 5,400 acres highlight Tennessee's history, architecture and equestrian heritage. A variety of tour options awaits you at Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery, about 10 miles southwest of Nashville. Guests say the entire estate is beautiful and the popular "Mansion Tour" provides a good historical overview – plus a complimentary wine tasting. "Journey to Jubilee" offers insight into the lives of the enslaved people who worked here for nearly a century, while the "Southern Food Traditions" walking tour takes you outside. There are even guided tours geared toward children.

Following whatever tour you choose, browse the specialty stores and wine shop. End your visit with a traditional Southern-style lunch at the on-site restaurant. For more of a taste of Belle Meade's wines or bourbon, reserve a spot for one of Belle Meade's culinary experiences.

Address: 110 Leake Ave., Nashville, TN 37205

Reelfoot Lake

Created in the early 1800s by a series of violent earthquakes, the 15,000-acre Reelfoot Lake sits in the northwest corner of the state in Tiptonville. This natural lake is unlike the state's many artificial reservoirs formed by damming. Reelfoot houses a unique ecosystem: a flooded forest whose cypress trees rise above the water's surface but are also submerged below as stumps.

Birders will enjoy touring with park naturalists to view the shore and wading birds. In winter thousands of American bald eagles converge on the lake – an occasion marked by the Reelfoot Lake Eagle Festival every February. Visitors enjoy the scenery, recreational activities, camping and peacefulness of the lake. For an extended getaway, bed down at Blue Bank Resort or set up camp in Reelfoot Lake State Park.

Read: The Top Lakes in Tennessee

Visit the Birthplace of Country Music

While Nashville may be known as the "Country Music Capital of the World," Bristol is actually considered the birthplace of the genre. This twin city is located directly on the Virginia and Tennessee state line at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Check out the Birthplace of Country Music Museum – a Smithsonian Affiliate – to learn about the genre's roots and the 1927 Bristol Sessions.

If you're visiting in September, consider attending the three-day Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion, or catch live music around town year-round. While in Bristol, you can take in a race at the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway, snap a selfie while standing in two different states, and take in the region's beautiful scenery at South Holston Lake and Dam. Consider spending the night at The Bristol Hotel for the rooftop bar, regional cuisine and boutique accommodations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She visited Nashville for the first time at the age of 6 and fell in love. She's been making regular visits to the state of Tennessee throughout her life, and has visited Memphis, Graceland (twice), Nashville more times than she can count, Chattanooga, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and more. Hood has attended multiple CMA Fests and is always looking for her next chance to head to Tennessee. She used her personal experience along with travel research expertise to update this article.

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• The Best Places to Visit in Tennessee
• The Top Things to Do in Kentucky
• The Top Things to Do in Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Arkansas
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Local Tennessee travel guides

Hi! We’re Bri & Laurin, sisters who moved across the Blue Ridge Mountains from North Carolina into East Tennessee.

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Tennessee is awash in history—it was critical to the development of several genres of music, from country and jazz to blues and bluegrass; home to some of the most important battles of the Civil War; and the site of many major events in the struggle for civil rights. Nashville and Memphis are two of the most vibrant cities for live music in the country. Outdoor buffs can enjoy numerous hunting and fishing opportunities as well as several state and natural parks, including the most-visited national park in the country, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

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Photo by Bob Carr/NPS

When’s the best time to go to Tennessee?

As in many Southern states, summers in Tennessee are muggy, with high humidity and temperatures that can make being outdoors pretty intolerable. Winters are comparatively mild—except for in mountainous Eastern Tennessee—though they can also be quite wet. Fortunately, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are glorious, with wildflowers blanketing the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee in May and brightly colored leaves painting the eastern forests come October.

How to get around Tennessee

Many major airlines service Tennessee’s four largest cities, Nashville (BNA), Memphis (MEM), Chattanooga (CHA), and Knoxville (TYS), though some flights require connections through other hubs like Atlanta, Dallas, and Charlotte. Once you’re on the ground, three major highways crisscross the state, with I-40 connecting Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville; I-24 running between Nashville and Chattanooga; and I-65 bisecting the state north to south. These scenic freeways can get you anywhere in the state and offer views of the mountains in the east, the hills of Middle Tennessee, and the gradual flattening of the topography as you approach the Mississippi River on the western border.

Tennesseans love their cars, so urban cores can get crowded during rush hour and on-street parking can be hard to find. Consider, as the locals do, using a commercial garage. This dedication to personal vehicles also means that public transit options are lacking in the major cities, but rideshare services have become a popular alternative.

Food and drink to try in Tennessee

In Tennessee, the best food is based on home cooking. Restaurants like Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken in Mason and The Loveless Cafe outside of Nashville let southern staples like fried chicken and country ham shine in their humble roots, while spots like The Barn at Blackberry Farm in Walland and Husk in Nashville elevate folksy recipes into gourmet Appalachian cuisine. Each region of the state has specialty foods worth a pilgrimage, including Memphis-style dry ribs, the infernally spicy Nashville hot chicken, and even the unusual vinegar pie from the Tri-Cities in the northeast corner of Tennessee. While not as prolific as Kentucky bourbon, Tennessee whiskey also occupies an important spot in the hearts of many locals.

Culture in Tennessee

Tennessee is generally conservative, though liberal sentiments are more common in urban areas. Music brings everyone together, with major festivals across the state including the Beale Street Music Festival in Memphis, the CMA Fest in Nashville, the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, and Bonnaroo, a multi-genre music and camping festival in Manchester that’s one of the biggest gatherings of talent and fans in the nation every summer. Visual arts are also important, especially in the major cities of Memphis, Nashville, and Chattanooga, where you can find many worthwhile museums and public art installations.

Can’t miss things to do in Tennessee

Tennessee is known as the home of several important musical styles, with shrines to each one that are well worth visiting. Elvis Presley’s Memphis home, Graceland, is a mecca for fans of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll, while Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, known as “The Mother Church of Country Music,” still hosts live performances on its fabled stage. In Bristol, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum opened in 2014 with exhibits detailing the legendary 1927 Bristol Sessions, during which recordings by icons like Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family introduced the music of Appalachia to the rest of the nation.

Practical Information

Visitors to Tennessee need to think about covering their skin with sunscreen during the summers, bug spray for the mosquitos that can get a little intense around sunset, and layers of clothing in the fall that can be peeled off as the days warm from chilly to quite pleasant. The state also stretches across two times zones, so be cognizant of that fact if you’re planning to drive from Nashville to East Tennessee.

Local Resources

Memphis Flyer

Nashville Scene

Nashville Guru

Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Americana Music Triangle

Guide Editor

Chris Chamberlain is a food, drink, and travel writer based in his hometown of Nashville. One of the rare unicorns actually born in Music City, he has lived there his entire life except for four years in California, where he studied at Stanford and learned how to manipulate chopsticks. He is a regular contributor to Nashville Scene , StyleBlueprint , Sounds Like Nashville , The Local Palate , Thrillist , and Foodie Travel USA , and the author of The Southern Foodie , The Southern Foodie’s Guide to the Pig , and Nashville Beer: A Heady History of Music City Brewing .

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Time zones
• 4.2 History
• 4.3 Tourist information
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 7 Get around
• 12.1.1 Floods
• 12.1.2 Thunderstorms and tornadoes
• 12.2 Racism

Tennessee is a US state in the South known for its rich history, music, and the Appalachian Mountains along its eastern border. Many visitors come to see Elvis Presley's home, Graceland, or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Regions [ edit ]

Each region is known for its distinctive musical heritage: Bluegrass (East), Country-western (Middle), and Blues (West).

Cities [ edit ]

• 36.166667 -86.783333 1 Nashville – Country music capital of the world and the Tennessee state capital.
• 35.045556 -85.267222 2 Chattanooga – home of the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.
• 35.171389 -84.871111 3 Cleveland – a City with Spirit and home of Lee University
• 35.714444 -83.511389 4 Gatlinburg – Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• 36.168333 -82.8225 5 Greeneville – one of America’s Most Charming Towns & Villages
• 36.333333 -82.366667 6 Johnson City – site of East Tennessee State University and the USVA Mountain Home.
• 35.972778 -83.942222 7 Knoxville – Home of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville
• 35.117365 -89.971068 8 Memphis – Home of the blues and the birthplace of rock 'n' roll.
• 35.793889 -83.564167 9 Pigeon Forge – Home of Dollywood – Country legend Dolly Parton's amusement park.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 37.35175 -80.38108 1 Appalachian National Scenic Trail
• 36.4865 -84.6985 2 Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
• 35.683333 -83.533333 3 Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• 36.08458 -84.722448 4 Obed Wild and Scenic River
• 36.856944 -88.074722 6 Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
• 35.805702 -83.528838 7 Dollywood and Dollywood's Splash Country

Understand [ edit ]

Time zones [ edit ].

Tennessee is the only state in the U.S. to have more than one metropolitan area in each of two time zones. Roughly the eastern third of the state is in the Eastern Time Zone—this includes Knoxville and Chattanooga. The rest of Tennessee is on Central Time (same as Chicago). If you have to be somewhere at a certain time in the Eastern zone (and are in the Central zone), don't forget to allow for an extra hour to get there.

History [ edit ]

Tennessee was founded in 1796, making it the 16th state to be admitted to the Union. During the American Civil War , its allegiances were sharply divided, though the state government did secede from the Union. Quickly falling back into Union hands, it was one of the first Confederate states to rejoin the Union. The state has been the home of American icons including former President Andrew Johnson and entertainer Dolly Parton. However, it has also been home to such unsavory characters as Jesse James, and Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest, a prominent, post-war leader of the first Ku Klux Klan.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Tennessee Vacation website

Talk [ edit ]

Many native Tennesseans speak in the dialect of the American South. This dialect changes slightly as you cross through each region, and is especially pronounced in rural areas

Generally speaking, it is accepted that people in the South speak more slowly and carefully than those from the North. In particular, visitors from larger cities will have to adjust to the different pace of speech if they visit Tennessee's smaller mountain towns; speaking quickly and bluntly can be perceived as inconsiderate and may engender a negative response. Some Tennesseans in especially rural or mountainous areas may be difficult to understand by those not familiar with American South or Appalachian colloquialisms, slurring or speech cadence.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

Interstate 40 criss-crosses the state from west to east, connecting Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville and the Smoky Mountain Region. Interstate 55 is entirely situated in Memphis. Interstate 155 crosses from Missouri into northwest Tennessee, ending in Dyersburg. Interstate 24 enters from Kentucky near Clarksville, passes through Nashville and ends in Chattanooga (but not before briefly dipping into Georgia for about three miles / five km). Interstate 65 runs through Nashville in its trek from Kentucky to Alabama. Interstate 75, coming from Kentucky, links Knoxville with Chattanooga before heading into Georgia. Interstate 81 starts at Interstate 40 just east of Knoxville and heads northeast to Bristol before moving into Virginia. In the Kingsport area, Interstate 26 runs south from Interstate 81 into North Carolina (towards Asheville ), while Interstate 181 heads toward Kingsport and the Virginia state line.

By plane [ edit ]

There are several airports in the state. Memphis International Airport is served by many major airlines, with service to Toronto, Canada, as its only international route (as of Nov 2019). Nashville International Airport is a hub for Southwest Airlines and is served by many other airlines domestically, and by international airlines offering non-stop service to destinations in Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, The Bahamas, Dominican Republic, United Kingdom and Germany. There is air service at smaller airports at Maryville (Knoxville), Chattanooga and Bristol. Southern Tennessee is easily accessible to the Huntsville , Alabama, airport.

By train [ edit ]

Amtrak service in Tennessee is limited to the City of New Orleans service stopping in Memphis and Newbern.

By bus [ edit ]

Greyhound offers service throughout Tennessee. Megabus offers service to Memphis (from Chicago , Champaign-Urbana , St. Louis , Atlanta , Birmingham , Dallas , and Little Rock ), to Nashville (from Atlanta), to Chattanooga (from Atlanta), and to Knoxville (from Washington, D.C. , Christiansburg and Atlanta).

Get around [ edit ]

As in most American states, automobiles are the primary form of travel. In larger cities you will find public bus systems, and Greyhound buses are an option for travel in between cities. There are also major airports in all large cities (Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and the Tri-Cities) and many smaller airports scattered across the state.

There is no option for rail travel to Middle or East Tennessee. However, Amtrak runs the fabled "City of New Orleans" line through Memphis and Newbern. This is certainly worth considering if you are planning to visit those areas, especially if you are heading along the Mississippi River. Also, the city of Nashville operates a commuter rail from the suburbs to the downtown area.

Information on transit can be found here .

See [ edit ]

• Rock City, near Chattanooga . Famous for "See Rock City" signs all over the southeastern United States, especially on birdhouses.
• Graceland , in Memphis .
• Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spencer it is Tennessee's most visited state park. It holds the largest free falling waterfall east of the Mississippi River.
• Cades Cove — wildlife viewing location
• The Lost Sea Adventure-Sweetwater
• Lookout Mountain

Eat [ edit ]

It is becoming increasingly rare to locate truly authentic "Southern" cuisine in places other than a privately owned family kitchen table, but the state still offers some truly wonderful regional fare. Some local specialties include hot chicken from Nashville , and Memphis -style barbecue , which includes the famous rib tips .

In Memphis , missing Rendezvous , host to American presidents and vice presidents, would be a sin.

Drink [ edit ]

Tennessee is known for its Tennessee whiskey , which meets the legal requirement for bourbon whiskey, but with the additional requirements that it be filtered through maple charcoal after the distillation but before the aging step, and that it be made within the state.

Do [ edit ]

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve and draws millions of visitors from around the region and the world annually. Covering nearly 1,000 square miles (over 2,000 km 2 ) it is home to temperate rainforests and some of the rarest and most unique plant life in North America. The park suffers from high levels of air pollution due to surrounding cities such as Knoxville and Sevierville as well as the numerous coal-fired power plants of the Tennessee Valley Authority.

Traffic congestion is fairly severe within the park's Cades Cove "loop," as many people stop to take in the vistas of the sprawling valley and its many deer and bears that freely roam the area. If you plan to go, car pool if you can.

Depending on where you plan to visit, there are many things to do in Tennessee from white water rafting on the Ocoee River, to visiting Gatlinburg, and seeing the Music City of Nashville. For outdoor adventures, you must go visit the Ocoee River rafting, which was home of the Olympics. You can have an all day adventure going down the Ocoee River and experience the fun of the outdoors.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Severe weather [ edit ], floods [ edit ].

During the spring months, the state is often heavily affected by major rain storms which lead to a risk of major flood potential. These floods are by no means on a small scale; they are often widespread and last for several days or even weeks. In May 2010, the state experienced a "1000-year flood" which resulted in numerous fatalities and over $2 billion of property damage statewide.

Travelers to the region during this season should consider planning ahead; stay informed about weather events in the region before making your journey. If there is an eminent flood warning or an ongoing threat of a flood occurring in the area at which you plan to travel to or through, consider deferring your travel plans or take an alternate route to your final destination. Avoid flood ravaged areas, as these areas are unsafe for any non-essential travel.

Thunderstorms and tornadoes [ edit ]

Although it is not anywhere near the official "tornado alley", the state (particularly its central and western regions) does experience very violent thunderstorms during the spring and summer months of the year. These thunderstorms frequently have the potential to spawn small scale tornadoes , but this is not to say that the potential for larger scale events is not possible. During the April 2009 tornado outbreak, the city of Murfreesboro was struck by an intense EF-4 tornado which resulted in 2 deaths and caused $40 million in property damage.

Therefore, any travelers to this region during these months should be vigilant of the changing weather conditions.

Refer to the Tornado safety page for more details regarding this matter.

Racism [ edit ]

In terms of race relations, racism is not that prevalent in the state. It's wise to avoid the poorest of areas if you feel you might be targeted by racist people. Younger Tennesseans are generally more progressive and tolerant than their seniors.

Respect [ edit ]

Tennessee, like almost all states in the South, is a conservative state, although it's a bit more progressive than, say, Mississippi .

As is the case with almost all states in the South , old-fashioned rules of etiquette and courtesy are followed. Not following such nuances can make you stand out like a sore thumb.

Go next [ edit ]

Tennessee is tied with Missouri for having the most neighboring states. It has eight in total.

• Arkansas - Tennessee's western neighbor, "The Natural State" is home to the Ozark Mountains in the northwest while the south and east of the state has flatter land and shows more of its agricultural heritage.
• Missouri - The state's northwestern neighbor is home to Branson , a music city similar to Nashville (but nowhere near as large), and St. Louis , the gateway to the West.
• Kentucky - Tennessee's northern neighbor is the Bluegrass State, home to the Kentucky Derby, Mammoth Cave National Park and the Corvette Museum.
• Virginia - Across Tennessee's northeast corner, Virginia is known for the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park .
• North Carolina - Located east of Tennessee, North Carolina is where you'll find Chimney Rock, Biltmore Estate and Grandfather Mountain.
• Georgia - Tennessee's southeastern neighbor is across the border from Chattanooga, and includes Rock City, the historic village of Helen , and the vibrant city of Atlanta .
• Alabama - The state to the south of Tennessee has the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville and the popular Gulf Shores resort region.
• Mississippi - Southwest of Tennessee, Mississippi boasts Civil War battlefields, scenic parkways, antebellum charm, and riverboat casinos.

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Exploring the South: Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee

By USA specialist Natalie

Much of the South is defined by the cities and plantations that are strung out, like Mardi Gras beads, along the length of the mighty, muddy Mississippi. Along the river, you’ll find smoky jazz halls, authentic blues dives and country music honky-tonks. You’ll also encounter restored plantations whose graceful white columns and tree-lined drives disguise a horrific history. This is the land of jambalaya, civil rights, Elvis and the Grand Ole Opry.

A two-week self-drive tour through Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee can take you through the heart of the South, following the river that defines the region.

Let the good times roll in New Orleans, Louisiana

A cultural stew pot, New Orleans has long held firm to its open-minded acceptance of anyone who’s willing to let the good times roll. French Catholic, Caribbean and African influences set the tone, alongside recent Vietnamese and Sicilian ones, all melding together in a sassafras-scented cultural gumbo.

For many, the city is the birthplace of jazz. You hear it spilling from bars on Frenchmen Street, at the prestigious Jazz Fest, blasted by buskers in Jackson Square, and leading spontaneous parades through the French Quarter. Even if you’re not a fan, I strongly suggest taking in a performance by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Performed four or five times a night, the short show consists of an improvised set list. The virtuosic band members solicit requests from the audience, mixing in a little vaudevillian patter and good-natured ribbing. I think that the tiny venue and intimate nature of the performance make it the best way to experience jazz in the city.

Aside from its music, New Orleans is probably best known for its cuisine, and you could easily frame your whole visit around eating. Try pralines at Aunt Sally’s, gumbo at Galatoire’s, jambalaya at Coop’s Place, milk punch at the Court of Two Sisters and beignets at Café du Monde (bring cash).

For a more hands-on approach, you can whip up some of these poetically named dishes in a class at the New Orleans School of Cooking under the wing of an expert chef.

The city also continues to be a hotbed of culinary innovation. Staying au courant of the ever-changing restaurant scene is practically a full-time job, so ask your hotel concierge for recommendations.

Food and music don’t account for all New Orleans’ cultural heritage — the city’s long, turbulent past is written into its streets and stones. I think the best way to explore this history is on a guided tour of the city’s graveyards.

For centuries, born out of necessity by the city’s high water table, New Orleans’ dead have been buried in above-ground mausoleums and time-blackened crypts that molder, slowly, in the humid air.

Enclosed by crumbling brick walls and wrought-iron gates, the historical cemeteries are only open to visitors with an approved guide. But, to be honest, you wouldn’t want to go without one. The weathered gravestones and spall-faced crypts hide stories that a guide can bring to life, from deadly yellow fever plagues to dramatic family feuds.

The living are still very present here. Modern practitioners regularly leave offerings of gris-gris charms and flowers at the tomb of voodoo priestess Marie Laveau. In 1995, author Anne Rice staged her own mock funeral at Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. And, in 2009, actor Nicolas Cage commissioned a large white pyramid in Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1, for reasons he keeps to himself.

The city’s many museums include the well-curated National WWII Museum, which presents an in-depth look at the war, as well as a soda shop that recreates the ambiance of the era. Across town, in the elegant Presbytère building, the Louisiana State Museum displays a heartbreaking, but ultimately hopeful, exhibition about Hurricane Katrina. Smaller museums are dedicated to voodoo, and the history of pharmacies and costumes, among other subjects.

The South’s Plantation Country

As you follow the Mississippi out of New Orleans, you see dozens of restored plantations littering the river’s wide, fertile banks. On a bend about an hour west of the city are three that I particularly recommend you visit.

Oak Alley ’s front lane is lined with wide-branched oaks that frame the white colonnaded portico. The scene has been photographed so often that the image is practically synonymous with Louisiana plantations.

Lovingly, lavishly restored inside and out, the big house is, for me, the best place to spend the night in plantation country.

The tour here is fairly unremarkable, but the guest cottages are exceptional — airy and spacious with roofed porches and river views. Wake up early to explore the manicured grounds and take photographs uncluttered by hordes of tourists.

Just 10 minutes away from Oak Alley, Laura Plantation offers a thoughtful look into the history and culture of Creole plantation owners. The main house has been meticulously restored to its original blue-and-yellow exterior. Inside, you can hear about the complicated, cosmopolitan Creole culture, along with a blunt examination of how that intersected with race and the institution of slavery.

For an in-depth analysis of the lives of enslaved people, you need to venture another 10 minutes down the road to Whitney Plantation. This is the only museum in America that focuses primarily on the African workers who were forced into slavery and their descendants, born into bondage.

The exhibits provide an unflinching look at the grievous human cost that paid for the gracious mansions still lining the river, a history that’s mostly left unexamined or even elided in the other plantations.

Blues and history in Mississippi

Continuing north up the river, Vicksburg, Mississippi , is a sleepy city that acted as a vital strategic point between Memphis and New Orleans during the Civil War. Because the city offered control of the river, General Grant’s army laid siege to the city for several months, shelling it from gunboats on the river.

The Vicksburg National Military Park includes a self-guided driving trail that follows the siege lines of both armies, passing tombs and monuments. Costumed re-enactors often run demonstrations or workshops along the way. The 26-km (16-mile) route also stops at the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, a well-preserved example of the ironclad gunboats that plied the river during the war.

If you prefer music to history, the rundown city of Clarksdale, Mississippi, is the home of the Delta blues and some of the best blues bars in the world.

Ground Zero, co-owned by Morgan Freeman, doesn’t look like much. The white paint is mostly peeled off the battered, graffiti-scrawled brick walls, and the cluttered interior is lit by strings of bare-bulb Christmas lights. But, the small wooden stage is where aspiring blues artists come to make a name for themselves.

The club is right next door to the Delta Blues Museum and centrally located on the Blues Trail, a self-drive tour of the sites vital to Delta blues, from cotton fields to churches.

‘I’m going to Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee’

Home to Sun Studio, Graceland and a myriad of clubs that line Beale Street, Memphis is a place of pilgrimage for music fans of all sorts, whether you listen to rock ‘n’ roll, jazz or the blues.

Even if you don’t love Elvis, I’d urge you to spend at least half a day at Graceland (though true fans probably want to allot even more time). With a green shag-carpeted ceiling and the peacock stained-glass windows, the over-the-top pleasure palace is decorated in 1970s glamour or glitzy kitsch, depending on your personal taste.

Of the choice of tours, I suggest spending the extra money to see the two planes, if only for the gold-plated basin in the bathroom of the Lisa Marie. You’ll also see Elvis’s complete collection of records, cars, clothes and toys, as well as a multimedia entertainment complex that examines his life and career.

The first time I visited the mansion, I was shocked at the number of people sobbing openly at his flower-bedecked grave, the last stop on the tour.

A shuttle runs from Graceland to Sun Studio, and a visit is definitely worth your time. Elvis, BB King, Johnny Cash and countless others recorded here.

Nearby, you’ll find Beale Street, which is crowded with clubs where blues, jazz and rock musicians still belt out gigs every night and twice on Saturdays.

A 20-minute walk from Beale, the National Civil Rights Museum examines America’s long struggle with race. It backs onto the hotel where Dr King was assassinated, and you can visit the room where he died, preserved as it was that night. It’s a moving, difficult visit, but necessary, I think, to understand the South’s past and present struggles.

Two Beale Street musicians also run a vintage car tour of the city. You climb into a restored 1950s car for a tour that’s tailored to your interests. You can make it all about Elvis, examine the city’s fraught racial history or visit stops on the Blues Trail.

Music City — Nashville, Tennessee

The home of country music, Nashville has a bit of a touristy vibe and, sometimes, it can be hard to get away from the bright lights and flashy façade.

But, no one knows the city as well as the musicians who flock here, hoping for their big break, and that’s why I suggest a private tour of Nashville with a songwriter.

You’ll visit the big sights and get an insider’s view of the industry as well as the history, from its earliest days in the 1920s until today. End with a drink at one of the historic honky-tonk bars that line the Broadway District.

It was on this tour that I discovered the Musicians Hall of Fame. Lesser known than the bigger, slicker Country Music Hall of Fame, this museum takes a deep dive into the whole of America’s music industry, paying tribute to anonymous session musicians as well as big-name stars. The most fascinating exhibit for me examined what goes into making a Grammy-worthy song, from the original idea, scratched on paper, to the final pressing of the album.

But, this was surpassed by seeing a performance at the Grand Ole Opry. I’m not a country music fan, but there’s something charming about the old-fashioned, thrice-weekly live-broadcast shows. Last time I visited, I took a behind-the-scenes tour of the show. Escorted by a tiny woman dwarfed by her perfectly styled hair, I visited the backstage area.

Each dressing room is decorated to a theme. ‘Stars and Stripes’ features an oversized American flag painted on the wall, and ‘It Takes Two’ is bedecked with photographs of the genre’s best-known duos.

The pinnacle of the tour is the chance to sit on stage during the performance, close to the musicians. Singer-songwriter Dierks Bentley was close enough that I could see him sweat under the bright lights of Nashville’s most storied venue.

Read more about trips to Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee in the USA

Discovering the American South

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Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• Music culture of the South
• A New Orleans food guide
• Luxury vacations in the South
• Exploring Georgia and the Carolinas
• Driving vacations in the United States

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