Tennessee is a vibrant Southern state where music, mountains, and cultural heritage collide. Whether you’re tapping your toes to live country music in Nashville, exploring historic landmarks in Memphis, or hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains, the Volunteer State offers something for every traveler. This Tennessee travel guide covers the must-see spots, best times to visit, and local tips to help you plan your perfect adventure.
Where is Tennessee?
📍 Location: Southeastern United States
🌆 Major Cities: Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga
🌄 Bordering States: Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri
🔗 Visit Tennessee Tourism
🌆 Major Cities: Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga
🌄 Bordering States: Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri
🔗 Visit Tennessee Tourism
Best Time to Visit Tennessee
🌸 Spring (March-May) – Ideal for festivals, wildflowers, and outdoor hikes.
☀️ Summer (June-August) – Great for music festivals and lake activities, though it can be humid.
🍂 Fall (September-November) – Stunning foliage in the Smokies and harvest celebrations.
❄️ Winter (December-February) – Best for cozy cabin getaways and holiday lights.
☀️ Summer (June-August) – Great for music festivals and lake activities, though it can be humid.
🍂 Fall (September-November) – Stunning foliage in the Smokies and harvest celebrations.
❄️ Winter (December-February) – Best for cozy cabin getaways and holiday lights.
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Top Attractions & Destinations in Tennessee
1. Nashville – Music City USA
Nashville is the heartbeat of country music and a thriving hub for food, nightlife, and creativity.
🎶 Best Things to Do in Nashville:
- Visit the Grand Ole Opry or Ryman Auditorium
- Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame
2. Memphis – Blues, BBQ & History
Home to the blues, Elvis Presley, and some of the country’s best barbecue.
🎸 Top Attractions in Memphis:
- Tour Graceland, Elvis Presley’s estate
- Visit the National Civil Rights Museum
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Nature at Its Finest
The most-visited national park in the U.S., filled with scenic drives, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
🏞️ Best Things to Do in the Smokies:
- Drive Cades Cove Loop for wildlife and views
- Hike Clingmans Dome or Laurel Falls
4. Chattanooga – Riverfront Fun & Outdoor Beauty
Chattanooga offers outdoor adventure mixed with cultural attractions along the Tennessee River.
🚠 Top Things to Do in Chattanooga:
- Ride the Incline Railway to Lookout Mountain
- Explore Ruby Falls and Rock City Gardens
5. Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge – Family Fun in the Mountains
These adjacent mountain towns are perfect for family vacations, entertainment, and Smoky Mountain access.
🎡 Things to Do in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge:
- Visit Dollywood theme park
- Walk through Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
- Enjoy mountain coasters and scenic chairlifts
📍 Location: Near the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains
🔗 Visit Gatlinburg | Visit Pigeon Forge
Best Outdoor Adventures in Tennessee
- 🚣 Raft the Ocoee or Pigeon Rivers for whitewater thrills
- 🥾 Hike the Appalachian Trail section in the Smokies
- 🚴 Ride the Natchez Trace Parkway
- 🛶 Kayak through Reelfoot Lake’s flooded cypress forest
Where to Stay in Tennessee
🏨 Unique Hotels & Music-Inspired Stays:
- The Peabody Memphis – Famous for its duck march
- Graduate Nashville – A funky, music-themed hotel
🏕️ Best Cabins & Campgrounds:
- Elkmont Campground (Great Smoky Mountains NP) – Riverside camping near trails
- Camp Margaritaville (Pigeon Forge) – Family-friendly resort experience
Tips for Visiting Tennessee
✅ Book Smoky Mountain lodging early, especially in fall
✅ Try local favorites: hot chicken, dry-rub BBQ, and moon pies
✅ Enjoy free music – many bars and venues host local talent with no cover
✅ Keep cash handy in smaller mountain towns and markets
✅ Try local favorites: hot chicken, dry-rub BBQ, and moon pies
✅ Enjoy free music – many bars and venues host local talent with no cover
✅ Keep cash handy in smaller mountain towns and markets
Nearby Travel Destinations
- North Carolina – Visit Asheville or the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Georgia – Explore Atlanta or the Appalachian foothills
- Kentucky – Take a bourbon tour or visit Mammoth Cave National Park
Final Thoughts
From live music and mountain trails to vibrant cities and scenic small towns, Tennessee is packed with personality. Whether you’re two-stepping in Nashville, sampling BBQ in Memphis, or hiking misty mountain trails, the Volunteer State offers an unforgettable blend of Southern charm and adventure.
For more Southeast travel ideas, check out our North Carolina Travel Guide and Georgia Travel Guide.