Travel Guide: Things to Do in Tennessee
Welcome to the wonderful and unique state of Tennessee! Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a history buff, a lover of outdoor adventures, or a foodie in search of authentic Southern cuisine, you’ll discover that Tennessee has something to cater to every interest. Let’s dive into the many things you can do and experience in this beautiful state!
Immerse Yourself in Music History
Nashville: No visit to Tennessee is complete without a stop in Nashville, also known as Music City. The world-famous Grand Ole Opry is a must-visit, known for hosting some of the biggest names in country music. Catch a live show, or take a backstage tour for a taste of music history. Stroll down Broadway where music spills from every corner, including historic venues like Robert’s Western World and Tootsies Orchid Lounge.
Memphis: Known as the birthplace of blues, Memphis is a haven for music lovers. Start with a visit to Sun Studio, famously known as the recording studio of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Then head to Beale Street, one of the most iconic streets in America, buzzing with live music, great food, and vibrant nightlife. Don’t forget to tour Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, to get a peek into the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: As the most visited national park in the U.S, the Great Smoky Mountains offer breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and a multitude of hiking trails. For an unforgettable experience, take the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a picturesque drive with plenty of stops for nature walks, waterfalls, and historic buildings.
Chattanooga: Home to the beautiful Tennessee River, Chattanooga offers a variety of outdoor activities. Explore the stunning Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall located within Lookout Mountain, or take a river cruise on the Southern Belle Riverboat for picturesque views. For hiking enthusiasts, the Signal Mountain provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding nature.
Delve into Rich History and Culture
Appalachian Cultural Experiences: To truly understand Tennessee, you should explore the Appalachian culture. Visit the Museum of Appalachia in Clinton, an outdoor living history museum, depicting the pioneer and early Appalachian way of life.
Civil Rights Sites: Tennessee played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement. Don’t miss the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. The museum offers a powerful, immersive journey into the civil rights struggles.
Savor the Flavor of Tennessee
Food and Drink: If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat! Savor the flavors of Tennessee barbecue, famous for its distinctive tangy-sweet, smoky flavor. No trip to Tennessee would be complete without trying Nashville’s famous hot chicken. For whiskey enthusiasts, touring the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg is a must-do, where you can learn about the process of making the iconic Tennessee whiskey.
Farmer’s Markets: Visiting local farmers’ markets is a wonderful way to experience the local food scene. The Nashville Farmers’ Market and the Market Square Farmers’ Market in Knoxville are bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, artisan goods, and delicious street food.
Experience Unique Events and Festivals
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival: Held annually in Manchester, Bonnaroo is one of the most popular music and arts festivals in the country. Featuring a diverse lineup of artists and a wide variety of food and craft vendors, this four-day festival promises an unforgettable experience.
Elvis Week: Every year, thousands of Elvis fans flock to Memphis to celebrate the life and career of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. With a week full of events including tribute shows, panel discussions, and a candlelight vigil at Graceland, it’s a unique event not to be missed.
Stroll Through Charming Small Towns
Franklin: Just south of Nashville, Franklin is a charming small town known for its historic downtown area, filled with antique shops, boutiques, and superb restaurants. Don’t miss the Carnton Plantation, a historic Civil War site.
Gatlinburg: Known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a mountain resort city offering attractions like the SkyLift Park for amazing mountain views and the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, one of the top-rated aquariums in the country.
Final Thoughts
Tennessee, with its rich history, vibrant music scene, breathtaking nature, and delicious food, promises an incredible journey for every type of traveler. We hope this guide has sparked your interest and helped you plan your adventure in the Volunteer State. So pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready to explore all that Tennessee has to offer!