Are you looking for a break after weeks of long, hard work hours? A vacation is overdue. Taking out time from your busy life can help you unwind, relax and get a fresh perspective on things that may have been on your mind for a while. It’s great for your well-being.
More importantly, you don’t want deciding where to go for your escapade to ruin your vacation planning. America is huge, and you’re better off narrowing down your options by picking a state first. So ditch the popular options like New York, California, and Florida and pick Tennessee instead.
Tennessee is the 11th most popular state for tourism in the USA, and that too for all the right reasons. It has some of the most amazing sights, and there’s something for everyone. Here are some notable places in Tennessee worth visiting:
Nashville
Nashville is a major center for music, especially country music, and is popularly known as Music City in the country. It’s famous for live country music, honky-tonks, and local bars that showcase amazing performances every night. Don’t forget to visit the Grand Ole Opry, a live music show that has been running since 1925.
Nashville is also a great city to explore Tennessee’s culture. Visit the Parthenon and take in the beautiful Greek art, or hop down to Broadway for some of the best country bars.
Sevierville
Sevierville is a charming town located in the Great Smoky Mountains and is a popular tourist destination. There are plenty of family fun attractions to explore. Take some time out and head to Douglas Lake to be enchanted, or drive to Pigeon Forge for more shopping and entertainment options.
If you want to experience some amazing Sevierville attractions within town, check out XPERIA: Ocean Journey! This attraction is a cool new way to experience the ocean’s wonders through stunning visual effects and technology. So come visit this exciting attraction and explore the ocean like never before.
Memphis
Home to Beale Street, the National Civil Rights Museum, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and more, Memphis offers a bright nightlife, historical attractions, and music that will get your feet tapping! It’s the perfect city if you want a little bit of everything on your vacation.
Memphis is also home to the amazingly popular Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former estate. Whether you’re a fan of the artist or not, it’s worth the visit for its remarkable architecture and historical significance.
Knoxville
Knoxville is an exceptional spot to loosen up, explore, and take it all in. Whether you’re searching for outdoor fun, nightlife, or something different, the lively culture of this destination has you covered. Go to the University of Tennessee campus for some college vibes, check out downtown Market Square, or go out to one of the various beautiful parks. Knoxville also has many amazing exhibition halls, galleries, and performance venues if you crave something artsy.
Knoxville also has 9 lakes within an hour’s drive from the city, making it ideal for kayaking and fishing. If you’d like to stay overnight, there are plenty of great lodging options in and around the city.
Chattanooga
Chattanooga is perhaps the loveliest city in Tennessee and a must-see while visiting. From its stunning Lookout Mountain to Ruby Falls, the city is full of experiences that are bucket list worthy. The famous Chattanooga Choo Choo features restaurants and entertainment, while the Tennessee Aquarium has Amazon displays and a river otter show.
Moreover, there are many outdoor activities in Chattanooga to indulge in, including hiking and biking. From the Cumberland Trail State Park to its numerous stunning cascades, this is one destination you” be glad you didn’t miss.
Bristol
Bristol is a small community town close to the Virginia border, which is probably why many people don’t know much about it. But it is sure to blow your mind. Home to some of Tennessee’s most perfect views and beguiling architecture, it is a phenomenal spot to get lost in nature without traveling excessively far from your vacation rental. Come by the memorable midtown for unbelievable shopping and dining experiences, or go to the hills for incredible hiking and mountain biking.
Moreover, if you’re hoping to encounter something unique, check out the Bristol Motor Speedway – it’s an absolute must.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No Tennessee vacation destination list is complete without mentioning the Smokies. This park, located along the border with North Carolina and Tennessee, covers over 800 square miles of stunning mountain landscape, including gorgeous waterfalls, thick forests, and diverse wildlife. It is why more than 14 million people come to Tennessee each year and spend time in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville.
Where you’re here, check out Clingman Dome for some of the most spectacular views in the park. The park’s numerous trails are also great for hikers of all levels. Looking to take in some stunning views of the mountains? Head to Newfound Gap or Charlie’s Bunion and prepare for a breathtaking experience.
Cookeville
This charming city has it all: music festivals, the arts, outdoor recreation, and delicious restaurants. Home to Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville is known for its vibrant atmosphere. Tourists can explore the campus grounds or take in a show at one of the many performing arts venues. Visit Cummins Falls State Park nearby to canoe, kayak, or relax.
You can also go shopping at the numerous boutique retailers and sample delicious eats from local eateries. A visit to Cookeville is sure to leave you full of lasting memories.
Tennessee offers a wide array of attractions for explorers to visit and enjoy. Whether you’re searching for a romantic escape, open-air experience, or cultural experience, this southern state will surely please. If you are searching for something unique and memorable this summer, be sure to add The Volunteer State to your travel list. You might find leaving difficult once you experience all its charm firsthand.
Photo by Helena Lopes
