Best places to see in Tennessee
Tennessee offers a blend of vibrant music cities, scenic wonders, and unforgettable attractions. Here are the 25 best places to visit in Tennessee, perfect for travelers seeking both culture and natural beauty.
Nashville: Legendary for live music, the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and buzzing Lower Broadway nightlife.
Memphis: Famous for Beale Street, Graceland (Elvis Presley’s home), Sun Studio, and the National Civil Rights Museum.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore iconic trails like Charlies Bunion and Chimney Tops, wildlife watching, and panoramic mountain views.
Gatlinburg: Gateway to the Smokies, with family attractions, shopping, and the thrilling SkyBridge.
Pigeon Forge: Home to Dollywood, mountain coasters, and the Titanic Museum.
Chattanooga: Don’t miss Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain, Tennessee Aquarium, and the lively Riverwalk.
Knoxville: Discover historic Market Square, the Tennessee River, and a thriving arts scene.
Franklin: Stroll charming, historic streets and Civil War landmarks.
Johnson City & Tri-Cities: Scenic drives, mountain views, and Appalachian culture.
The Parthenon (Nashville): Full-scale replica of Athens’ iconic temple in Centennial Park.
The Caverns: Underground concert venue and touring site for unique music experiences.
Kuwohi Observation Deck (Clingman’s Dome): The state's highest point for 360-degree Smoky Mountain views.
Cades Cove: A historic valley in the Smokies with wildlife, old cabins, and scenic drives.
Reelfoot Lake State Park: Unique earthquake-made lake, ideal for birdwatching and fishing.
Roan Mountain State Park: Known for wildflower blooms, epic vistas, and hiking trails.
Walland: Rustic retreats and luxury resorts near Smoky Mountain trails.
Natchez Trace Parkway & State Park: Scenic drives with hiking, history, and serene forest.
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Adventure sports and gorgeous river canyons.
Black Mountain: Hikes with sweeping views and rare rock outcrops.
Devilstep Hollow Cave: Archaeological site with prehistoric cave art (limited public access).
Denny Cove: Famous for hiking, climbing, and waterfalls.
Frozen Head State Park: Known for birdwatching and rugged backcountry trails.
Big Hill Pond State Park: Rolling hills, fire tower, and tranquil forests.
The Loveless Cafe: An iconic stop for hot biscuits on the outskirts of Nashville.
Johnny Cash Museum: Celebrates the life of "The Man in Black" with memorabilia and interactive exhibits (Nashville).
Each spot on this list captures a different side of Tennessee, whether it’s the legendary music history of Memphis and Nashville, the breathtaking mountain scenery, or unique attractions like Dollywood and the Parthenon replica. Travelers can hike, dine, attend world-class concerts, or simply soak in the Southern hospitality, making Tennessee an unforgettable place to explore.
Whether planning a road trip, family vacation, or outdoor adventure, these 25 destinations showcase the heart and soul of Tennessee.