15 Best Things to Do in Tennessee
Prepare to be swept away into the heart of the American South, where rhythm meets rugged beauty and history whispers from every corner. Tennessee, the Volunteer State, beckons with an irresistible blend of iconic music cities, majestic mountain ranges, and poignant historical sites. From the twang of a guitar string in Nashville to the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, and the solemn battlefields of the Civil War, you will discover a destination that truly has something for every soul.
This guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through 15 of Tennessee’s finest attractions, offering rich practical information and detailed cost breakdowns to help you plan your perfect adventure. The best times to visit are generally spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and vibrant foliage, though each season offers its own unique charm. Expect warm hospitality and endless opportunities for discovery in this incredibly diverse state.
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $60 – $110 | $130 – $220 | $280+ |
| Food & Dining (per day) | $35 – $60 | $70 – $120 | $150+ |
| Transportation (per day) | $15 – $25 (local) | $50 – $80 (car rental + gas) | $90+ (premium rental/rideshares) |
| Activities & Attractions (average entry fees) | $10 – $25 | $30 – $60 | $70+ (including tours) |
| Total Daily Budget (Low) | $120 – $200 | $280 – $450 | $600+ |
| Total Daily Budget (Medium) | $160 – $250 | $350 – $550 | $750+ |
| Total Daily Budget (High) | $200 – $300 | $400 – $650 | $900+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates (Low) | $840 – $1400 | $1960 – $3150 | $4200+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates (Medium) | $1120 – $1750 | $2450 – $3850 | $5250+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates (High) | $1400 – $2100 | $2800 – $4550 | $6300+ |
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park, straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. What makes this place truly unique is its incredible biodiversity, ancient mountains, and the lingering mist that often shrouds its peaks, giving them their characteristic “smoky” appearance. You can expect to drive scenic routes like Newfound Gap Road, hike countless trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs, and discover cascading waterfalls, historic structures, and an abundance of wildlife, including black bears.
Cades Cove is a popular spot for wildlife viewing and exploring historic log cabins. The best times to visit are spring for wildflowers or fall for spectacular foliage, though summer offers lush greenery and winter brings serene, snow-dusted landscapes. This park is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and families looking for outdoor adventure. Its rich cultural history, from Native American heritage to early European settlements, adds another layer of depth to your visit.
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Graceland, the Playground of Elvis
Step back in time to the opulent world of the King of Rock and Roll at Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic estate in Memphis. This isn’t just a house tour; it’s an immersive journey into the life and legacy of a global phenomenon. What makes Graceland unique is its incredible preservation, allowing you to walk through the very rooms where Elvis lived, entertained, and found solace. You will see his famous Jungle Room, the TV Room, and the Lisa Marie jet, along with his impressive collection of cars and memorabilia.
The Graceland experience offers various tour options, including audio-guided tours narrated by Elvis’s daughter, Lisa Marie. This attraction is a must-visit for music enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone fascinated by celebrity culture. Its cultural significance as the ultimate shrine to one of music’s biggest legends is unparalleled. Expect to spend several hours soaking in the atmosphere and learning about Elvis’s incredible impact on the world.
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Vibrant Music Scene of Nashville
Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene of Nashville, affectionately known as Music City. What makes Nashville truly unique is its unparalleled status as the global capital of country music, though its diverse sounds extend to rock, blues, and gospel. You can expect to stroll down the legendary Honky Tonk Highway on Broadway, where live music spills from every bar from morning till late night, often with no cover charge.
Beyond the pulsating nightlife, explore iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium, the “Mother Church of Country Music,” or delve into history at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry, where legends and rising stars share the stage. Nashville offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for music lovers, couples, and solo travelers. Its history as a recording hub and a launchpad for countless artists gives it a profound cultural significance that resonates with visitors from around the world.
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Dollywood
Step into the whimsical world of Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s beloved theme park nestled in the Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge. What sets Dollywood apart is its unique blend of thrilling rides, world-class entertainment, and a heartfelt celebration of Appalachian culture and Dolly’s Tennessee roots. You can expect to experience exhilarating roller coasters, charming craft shops showcasing traditional Appalachian artisans, and award-winning live music shows ranging from country to gospel.
The park also features delicious Southern cuisine and seasonal festivals, like the Smoky Mountain Christmas. Dollywood is an ideal destination for families with children of all ages, thrill-seekers, and anyone who appreciates genuine Southern charm and hospitality. Its dedication to preserving mountain heritage while providing top-tier entertainment makes it a truly special and memorable experience.
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Tennessee Civil War Trails
Embark on a journey through history along the Tennessee Civil War Trails, a network of interpretive signs and sites that tell the stories of the state’s pivotal role in the American Civil War. What makes these trails unique is their ability to bring history to life, allowing you to stand on the very ground where major battles were fought and crucial decisions were made. You can expect to visit battlefields like Shiloh, Stones River, and Chickamauga, explore historic homes, and read detailed markers that explain the events, strategies, and personal stories of the conflict.
The trails cover various themes, from campaigns and battles to the experiences of soldiers and civilians. This experience is perfect for history buffs, students, and families seeking an educational and reflective journey. The trails offer a profound understanding of a defining period in American history, highlighting Tennessee’s strategic importance and the immense human cost of the war.
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The Parthenon
Discover a piece of ancient Greece in the heart of Nashville at The Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original Athenian temple. What makes this attraction truly unique is its incredible architectural fidelity and its dual role as Nashville’s art museum. You can expect to marvel at the impressive Doric columns, the meticulous details of its friezes, and the crowning glory inside: a colossal 42-foot statue of Athena Parthenos, gilded in gold, just like the ancient original.
The Parthenon also houses a permanent collection of 19th and 20th-century American art, adding another layer to your visit. This site is perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking for a unique cultural experience. Its existence in Nashville, often called “the Athens of the South,” underscores the city’s historical commitment to classical learning and architectural grandeur.
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Tennessee Valley Railroad Museums
All aboard for a historical adventure at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) in Chattanooga. What makes TVRM unique is its dedication to preserving and operating historic railway equipment, offering visitors an authentic experience of train travel from a bygone era. You can expect to ride on beautifully restored vintage trains, including steam locomotives, on various excursions like the “Missionary Ridge Local” which takes you through a pre-Civil War tunnel.
Explore the museum’s impressive collection of locomotives and railcars, learn about railroad history, and even witness the mechanics of a working railyard. This attraction is ideal for families with children, train enthusiasts, and anyone interested in industrial history. The museum plays a crucial role in keeping the legacy of steam railroading alive, providing a tangible link to America’s past transportation.
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Knoxville, Tennessee
Discover the vibrant charm of Knoxville, Tennessee, a city that beautifully blends Southern hospitality with an energetic urban core. What makes Knoxville unique is its picturesque setting on the Tennessee River, its rich history, and a burgeoning arts and culinary scene. You can expect to explore the lively Market Square, a pedestrian-only hub filled with shops, restaurants, and often live music or farmers markets.
Visit the iconic Sunsphere, a remnant from the 1982 World’s Fair, for panoramic city views. Stroll through the charming Old City with its historic architecture and trendy boutiques, or kayak on the river. Knoxville offers a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere, perfect for couples, solo travelers, and families looking for a less-crowded city experience. Its balance of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and a welcoming community makes it a delightful stop in East Tennessee.
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Lookout Mountain
Ascend to new heights and explore the natural wonders of Lookout Mountain, a majestic landmark near Chattanooga that offers a trifecta of unique attractions. What makes Lookout Mountain unique are its three distinct experiences: Ruby Falls, a stunning underground waterfall; Rock City, famous for its “See Rock City” barns and ancient rock formations with panoramic views; and the Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways.
You can expect to descend into a cavern to witness Ruby Falls, walk through ancient geological wonders and “Fairyland Caverns” at Rock City, and enjoy breathtaking views as you ride the Incline Railway. This destination is perfect for families, adventure seekers, and those who appreciate natural beauty and engineering marvels. Its historical significance during the Civil War, particularly the “Battle Above the Clouds,” adds another layer of intrigue to its natural splendor.
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The Titanic Museum
Journey back to 1912 and experience the grandeur and tragedy of the Titanic at the Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge. What makes this museum unique is its interactive and immersive approach, offering a poignant and personal connection to the ill-fated ship and its passengers. You can expect to receive a boarding pass with the name of an actual passenger or crew member, whose fate you discover at the end of your tour.
Walk through meticulously recreated rooms, touch an iceberg, feel the frigid water, and marvel at over 400 artifacts recovered from the ship and its sister vessels. This attraction is ideal for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone fascinated by the Titanic’s story. Its dedication to honoring the lives lost and preserving the memory of this iconic ship makes it a deeply moving and educational experience.
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Lost Sea Cave at Craighead Caverns
Delve into the subterranean wonders of the Lost Sea Cave at Craighead Caverns, near Sweetwater, home to America’s largest underground lake. What makes this attraction unique is the opportunity to take a guided tour through ancient caverns, culminating in a boat ride across the vast, mysterious Lost Sea. You can expect to see incredible stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating geological formations, learn about the cave’s history as a Cherokee council room and a Civil War saltpeter mine, and spot rare cave salamanders in the lake.
The boat ride across the clear, deep water is a truly unforgettable experience. This destination is perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a unique and adventurous underground exploration. Its blend of natural beauty, scientific interest, and intriguing history makes it a captivating visit.
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Bell Witch Cave
For those with a taste for the supernatural, a visit to the Bell Witch Cave in Adams offers a chilling dive into one of America’s most famous paranormal legends. What makes this site unique is its direct connection to the infamous Bell Witch haunting of the early 19th century, a story that has terrified generations and inspired countless books and films.
You can expect to take a guided tour into the very cave believed to be the lair of the malevolent entity, hear the eerie tales of the Bell family’s torment, and explore the cabin replica where much of the activity occurred. This attraction is ideal for thrill-seekers, paranormal enthusiasts, and those fascinated by local folklore and American supernatural history. Its reputation as a truly haunted place, where strange occurrences are still reported, adds an undeniable thrill to the experience.
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Oak Ridge, The Secret City
Uncover the secrets of Oak Ridge, “The Secret City,” a place shrouded in mystery and instrumental in one of the most significant scientific endeavors in human history. What makes Oak Ridge unique is its origins as a top-secret site established during World War II for the Manhattan Project, the effort to develop the atomic bomb.
You can expect to visit the American Museum of Science and Energy, which delves into Oak Ridge’s scientific contributions, and take the Secret City Scenic Excursion Train for a glimpse of the vast K-25 site. The history here is palpable, offering a fascinating look at scientific innovation, Cold War intrigue, and the impact of the atomic age. This destination is perfect for history buffs, science enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding a pivotal moment in 20th-century history.
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Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness
Embark on a challenging yet incredibly rewarding adventure to Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness, a pristine natural area known for its breathtaking waterfalls and rugged beauty. What makes Virgin Falls unique is its extraordinary geological feature: a magnificent waterfall that emerges from a cave, plunges 110 feet, and then disappears into another cave at the base, only to re-emerge later.
You can expect a strenuous 9-mile round trip hike that descends into a gorge, traverses diverse forest landscapes, and offers views of several other waterfalls, including Big Laurel Falls and Sheep Cave Falls, before reaching the main event. This destination is ideal for experienced hikers, nature photographers, and those seeking a true wilderness experience away from the crowds. Its untouched beauty and the unique hydrological phenomenon of the disappearing waterfall make it an unforgettable journey into Tennessee’s wild heart.
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The Crystal Shrine Grotto
Discover a hidden gem of spiritual artistry at The Crystal Shrine Grotto, nestled within Memorial Park Cemetery in Memphis. What makes this place truly unique is its whimsical and heartfelt creation: a man-made cave adorned with millions of sparkling crystals, colorful stones, and shells, depicting scenes from the life of Christ. Created by Mexican artist Dionicio Rodriguez in the 1930s, this grotto is a testament to faith and devotion, offering a serene and unexpected artistic experience.
You can expect to walk through a short, winding tunnel filled with intricate details, leading to a small chapel-like area bathed in a soft, ethereal glow. This attraction is perfect for art lovers, those seeking quiet contemplation, and anyone interested in unique folk art or spiritual sites. Its unexpected location and the sheer dedication evident in its construction make it a truly moving and memorable stop.
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Plan Your Visit
From the soulful rhythms of its music cities to the majestic heights of its mountain ranges, Tennessee truly offers an unparalleled tapestry of experiences. You’ve seen how the Volunteer State invites you to trace the footsteps of legends, delve into pivotal moments in history, marvel at natural wonders, and embrace unique cultural treasures. Whether you’re a budget-conscious backpacker or a luxury seeker, Tennessee provides a diverse range of activities and accommodations to fit your style.
So, pack your bags, tune into the melody of adventure, and prepare to be enchanted by the charm and spirit of this incredible state. Start planning your Tennessee adventure today, knowing that every dollar spent promises a memory to cherish forever. Your unforgettable journey through the heart of the South awaits!
