Look at a map of the United States as a whole and it’s clear that Tennessee is one of the most well-known states. Shaped like an irregular parallelogram, the state is nearly four times longer than it is wide, stretching approximately 420 miles from east to west and 120 miles from north to south. But what a two-dimensional map doesn’t reveal is a seemingly endless diversity within its borders, both in landscape and culture. “Tennessee is the perfect mix of urban and rural, casual yet sophisticated, and close to the great outdoors,” explains Cassidy Dabney, Executive Chef at The Barn at Blackberry Farm. “Add in incredible musical and cultural traditions, incredible fine and low-caliber cuisine attractions, and a rich and diverse geography, and you have a state that’s sure to keep you entertained and engaged.”
Tennessee’s big cities — Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville and Chattanooga — grab the attention of many travelers, but to truly appreciate the state, a more tailored itinerary is needed. “I think visitors should get off the interstate and explore the small towns, or they’ll miss out on the local places that give our state such great color and character,” says Tandy Wilson, chef and owner of Nashville’s City House.
To ensure your next trip to the Volunteer State is filled with fulfilling experiences and amazing sights, we asked locals for their advice on the best places to visit in Tennessee. Read on to find out which cities, towns, and sights they made the cut.
Nashville
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There’s no doubt that Music City tops the list, with several experts recommending it. As you plan your trip, keep some of Wilson’s favorite restaurants in mind: His picks include the mac and cheese at Silver Sands Cafe (“I want real Southern mac and cheese, and this is the only place I can get it”), the giant shrimp and fried calamari at Red Perch, and the nachos and wings at Martin’s BBQ Joint.
Broadway
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Nashville has a lot to offer, but there’s one place you definitely can’t miss: Broadway. “If it’s your first time here, head to Broadway for some honky-tonk sing-alongs, or head to Roberts Western World for some cold beer, fried bologna sandwiches and country music,” says Dabney. David Mishkin, executive property manager at Southall Farm & Inn, agrees that Broadway is an essential stop on any visit to Nashville. “There’s so much to see, eat and experience. Country music is everywhere and the performances are all high quality. It’s hard not to have fun when you’re soaking up the energy and action.”
Memphis
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“When I think of Memphis, I think of music, art and beautiful historic architecture,” says Stephanie King, an artist based in the southwestern city. While Memphis’ creative side can be found in many places, King says the Memphian Hotel is a great place to start. “To me, the Memphian embodies the many aspects of Memphis in the most inspiring and welcoming way. It’s as if the intention in designing the environment was to create pure magic. Local art lines the walls, layers of color and texture, quirkiness and sophistication, all blended into a comfortable, homey atmosphere,” she says.
Graceland
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Elvis Presley’s legendary home, Graceland, is located 12 minutes from downtown Memphis. A destination in itself, this historic property features the King of Rock and Roll’s mansion, gardens, cars and the Graceland Guest House, where music fans can stay and experience the resort’s luxury and commitment to Southern hospitality.
Leiper’s Fork
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One of Tennessee’s most charming small towns, Leiper’s Fork is a 45-minute drive southwest of Nashville. According to Mishkin, it’s a “charming place to have barbecue, go antique shopping and enjoy a nice drink at the distillery.” Like many places in the state, it has a music connection. If you’re into music, check out Fox & Rock. According to Mishkin, it’s a “famous place to come for food, drinks and live music.”
Chattanooga
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Chattanooga is one of the best river cities in the South. “If you’re in the area, be sure to check out Rock City and Ruby Falls. The museums are great,” Dabney says of the Hunter Museum of American Art in the Bluff View Arts District. In between outdoor activities and cultural attractions, tuck into fried chicken and tamales at Champy’s and sip cocktails at The Rosecomb.
South Cumberland State Park
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Home to 56 state parks, Tennessee is the perfect destination for anyone looking for peace and happiness amongst the trees and fresh air. South Cumberland State Park is about an hour from Chattanooga and is home to the Fiery Gizzard Trail. “Located near Beersheba Springs and Old Stone Fort just outside of McMinnville, it’s brimming with natural beauty. To tackle this hike, you’ll need to be able to walk a few miles, but it’s perfect for taking the kids,” says Wilson.
Warand
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You might recognize Woland from its association with Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain. “Blackberry Farm offers the ultimate luxury experience with trails, mountain biking, a James Beard Award-winning restaurant, spa, farm animals, workshops and concerts,” King says. Dabney also shares some mountain recommendations, saying, “You can’t go wrong with a guided hike to Leo the Enlightened (a large sculpture by Danish artist Thomas Dambo that overlooks the valley), a sound bath, an afternoon off-road adventure behind the wheel of a Lexus, or throwing clay in the art studio.”
Fall Creek Falls State Park
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“Fall Creek Falls State Park is a great spot for camping, biking and hiking,” says King. At 30,638 acres, it’s one of the largest state parks in Tennessee. In addition to its size, it has a few features that set it apart from other parks, including interesting geological formations (caves and canyons) and beautiful waterfalls.
Franklin
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While it’s easy to prioritize neighboring Nashville to the north over Franklin, travelers shouldn’t miss at least an afternoon in this historic community. “Nothing beats walking down this picturesque Main Street on a beautiful day. With curated shops and friendly faces at every turn, I often spend time exploring the town with my family,” says Mishkin. If you’re up for a longer trip, stay overnight at the gorgeous Southall Farm & Inn, opening in late 2022.
Maryville
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Maryville, a small town near Knoxville, is a great option for outdoor lovers. “Book a room at RT Lodge, a charming lodge tucked behind Maryville College. It’s centrally located but feels secluded, and it has a great restaurant and a gorgeous bar called Morningside,” Dabney says. “Use RT as your base for a road trip into the Great Smoky Mountains.”
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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One of the most visited national parks in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its lush forests, wildflowers, rivers, streams, waterfalls and great hiking trails. “My favorite hike in the Smoky Mountains is Indian Flat Falls. It’s about six miles, has beautiful waterfall views, is relatively easy and you can turn back at any point,” Dabney says.
Gatlinburg
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Gatlinburg maintains the title of “Gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” so your hiking adventure will likely begin there. With three park entrances just outside of town, Mishkin says, “the immersion in nature is worth the trip.” “The history preserved in the ruins around the park tells the story of people’s lives hundreds of years ago,” he adds.
Related: The 8 Most Charming Small Towns in Tennessee
Pigeon Forge
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Pigeon Forge has long been synonymous with Dollywood and Dolly Parton (who King calls “an American icon and Tennessee favorite”) and is packed with activities for the whole family, including theme parks, shopping and hiking in the Smoky Mountains. It’s also the site of Parton’s newest venture, Dollywood Heartsong Lodge & Resort, a 302-room lodge that opened last November.
cave
Kat Brown
“The Caverns is an East Tennessee spot for great concerts, primarily bluegrass, with one indoor underground cave and one outdoor amphitheater,” King says. Once you start planning your trip, you can check out upcoming shows online. And don’t forget to bring your hiking boots: “Around The Caverns, there are trails, rock climbing, waterfalls and amazing lookouts.”
Bristol
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Bristol, Tennessee is a sister city to Bristol, Virginia. Both states claim their own main street, aptly named State Street, meaning you can be in two states at once. Whether you’re staying on the Virginia or Tennessee side, there are some key things to check off your bucket list, like taking a photo with the iconic Bristol sign, checking out the Bristol Motor Speedway, and visiting the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
Related: Tennessee road trip explores Appalachian cuisine, craft distilleries and music history
Reelfoot Lake State Park
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King points out that Reelfoot Lake State Park in northwest Tennessee is “home to the most beautiful cypress trees” and a renowned birdwatching spot with more than 270 bird species. The park is also quite different from others in the state: The lake itself is a flooded forest, and the cypress trees King mentioned rise out of the water, creating a majestic sight.
