Tennessee, a landlocked state in the upper southeastern region of the United States, is one of the friendliest states to visit, with abundant travel attractions and gorgeous weather year-round. Tennessee is rich in history, art, and fashion and is the perfect destination for nature lovers and music enthusiasts.
The best part about visiting Tennessee is its people. You will meet the loveliest and most helpful locals who are always willing to assist. Home to breathtaking parks, renowned artists, museums, and buildings, most of Tennessee’s popularity arises from its accessibility.
Tennessee will be your best bet if you are a thrill seeker or a history buff looking for an adventurous yet calming trip. Here are a few top places to visit in US’s volunteer state.
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1. Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg will be an excellent spot to spend your vacation days outdoors. Located in eastern Tennessee, the town has a lot to offer, from hiking trails to quality family entertainment. Moreover, a trip to Gatlinburg is ideal for picnic lovers looking for beautiful parks to hang out, take strolls, and enjoy their day.
Start your trip with a visit to the Sugarland distilling company, continue with a tour of Ole Smoky, and don’t forget to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Moreover, head to Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and witness United States’ longest pedestrian bridge. More attractions include Gatlin’s Mini Golf, Anakeesta’s Rail Runner Mountain Coaster, a walk in the wood, fly fishing in the Smokys, and several others. You can easily find all kinds of resorts and hotels in the town. Each Gatlinburg TN hotel provides excellent services and amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
2. The Great Smoky Mountains
The one spot that you cannot miss during your trip to Tennessee is a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A standout attraction, the Great Smoky Mountain is the perfect mixture of adventure and breathtaking scenery. The best part is that the park is accessible and a short drive from downtown Gatlinburg.
There are several places to visit and activities to do in the Smokys, including touring the Cades Cove Loop Road, driving on Fork Motor Nature Trail, and exploring scenic riverside byways. You can take a chairlift ride to the hills at Ober Gatlinburg, a resort offering year-round activities.
Even though the Smoky Mountains offer year-round attractions and activities, the best time to visit would be spring because of the calm and pleasant weather.
Also read: Fun Places to Eat in Pigeon Forge
3. Graceland
If you are a music enthusiast or an Elvis Presley fan, you must visit Graceland. A significant landmark in Tennessee and formerly owned by the legend Elvis Presley, Graceland is a top tourist attraction in the state.
People can visit Graceland to see the singer’s prized possessions, including classic cars, jeweled jumpsuits, gold records, his mansion, and other exhibits. Registered in the National Register of Historic Places, Graceland opened its doors to the public in 1982.
You can leave a love letter at the Graceland wall, get your motor running in Presley motors, wonder at the border of gold, and climb aboard the Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II. Further, Graceland offers the most delicious southern soul food in all of Tennessee. You can visit several restaurants in the area to get a taste of authentic Memphis Southern food.
4. Knoxville
Tennessee’s third largest city, Knoxville, is a must-visit place offering the perfect blend of urban activities and outdoor entertainment. Knoxville provides a mind-blowing 1000-acre plot of forested urban wilderness where you can explore different trails, swim in sterile lakes, and experience thrilling zip-lining activities.
If you are a nature lover, visit Ijams nature center, world’s fair park, and zoo Knoxville for an excellent and fun experience. Moreover, head to the iconic Tennessee Theater (once referred to as the movie palace), visit the East Tennessee History Center and check out the McClung Natural History and Culture Museum.
Knoxville has many more things to do, including wandering through the market square, exploring James White Fort, touring the Bleak House, and strolling along the downtown mural walk. Knoxville is home to several high-end and top-notch fast fashion brands. It offers a good shopping experience for visitors. Turkey Creek, West Town Mall, and Broadway Shopping Center are the main shopping attractions for locals and tourists.
5. Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge offers a unique travel experience with many fun activities and places to visit. Home to Dollywood, Pigeon Forge is a mountain town with something everyone can enjoy and experience. Visit the outdoor gravity park for a unique experience rolling down the hill in an enormous inflatable ball, feed goats on the roof, and purchase souvenirs to take back home.
Pigeon Forge is home to Dolly Parton’s iconic 150-acre Dollywood theme park featuring thrilling rides, traditional crafts, and interactive music. Don’t forget to visit the Titanic Museum attraction, one of Pigeon Forge’s leading attractions offering a unique experience of the world’s largest ship. Moreover, the Island in Pigeon Forge, Hollywood Wax Museum, Parrot Mountain and Gardens, and Alcatraz East Crime Museum are hard to miss.
6. Nashville
When in Tennessee, you cannot miss a trip to Nashville, the music city of the USA. Tennessee has a rich musical tapestry that no other American state can match. The Grand Ole Opry House is an unmissable music-related landmark in Nashville.
Be sure to visit Ryman Auditorium and the Mother Church of Country Music, enjoy downtown Nashville’s famous nightlife, browse award-winning art exhibits, and admire a century-old Parthenon replica. Nashville is home to some of the most beautiful gardens, including Cheek wood Estate and Gardens, Sunken Gardens, and Martin Boxwood Garden.
Conclusion
Tennessee is full of adventure, exciting activities, and exotic places to visit. It offers incredible experiences and is hands down among the best choices for your next vacation. The best time to visit Tennessee is during April and May or October and November. So plan your trip now.