Tennessee Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Tennessee with this informative and comprehensive tour guide, featuring the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and more.


Introduction to Tennessee

Tennessee, also known as the Volunteer State, is located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is bordered by eight states and is known for its rich history, diverse culture, natural beauty, and vibrant music scene. From the lively city of Nashville to the serene Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Tennessee

Tennessee is filled with numerous attractions, ranging from historical sites to natural wonders. Below is a list of some of the top places to visit during your trip to Tennessee.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tennessee is home to a number of museums and historical landmarks that are of great cultural significance. Here are some of the most prominent ones:

  • Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Located in Nashville, this museum showcases the rich history of country music through its exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
  • Graceland: Situated in Memphis, this is the home of legendary musician Elvis Presley and is now a museum that offers tours of his estate and collection of memorabilia.
  • Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage: This historic plantation was once the home of the seventh President of the United States and is now a museum that houses a museum, gardens, and a farm in Nashville.

Natural Attractions of Tennessee: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you are interested in outdoor activities and love being in nature, Tennessee has plenty to offer. Here are some of the most popular natural attractions that you should visit:

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This beautifully preserved national park is located in the eastern part of the state and features breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
  • Rock City: Located atop Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, this attraction features unique rock formations, gardens, and a view of seven states.
  • Ruby Falls: Also located atop Lookout Mountain, this underground waterfall is truly a sight to see and it offers guided tours to learn about the geological history of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tennessee

Tennessee is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and has a wide variety of hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Chimney Tops Trail: This trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a strenuous climb to the summit, but offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway: This historic route is known for its scenic beauty and passes through Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, offering beautiful views of forests, rivers and farmland.
  • Shelby Bottoms Greenway: This paved trail is great for biking and running, and it follows the Cumberland River, offering beautiful views of downtown Nashville.

Best Things to Do in Tennessee: Activities and Tours

Tennessee offers a variety of activities and tours to suit all interests. Here are some of the best things to do during your visit:

  • Visit the Jack Daniel Distillery: Located in Lynchburg, Tennessee, this is where the famous Jack Daniel’s whiskey is made. Take a tour of the distillery and learn about its history and process of producing the iconic drink.
  • Take a Walk on Broadway: This famous street in downtown Nashville, lined with honky-tonks, shops, and restaurants, offers a lively atmosphere and showcases the city’s musical culture.
  • Explore the Tennessee Aquarium: Located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Chattanooga, this aquarium houses a wide variety of aquatic life and offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tennessee

If you have a week to explore Tennessee, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Destination
1 Nashville - visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, explore Broadway
2 Memphis - tour Graceland, visit the National Civil Rights Museum
3 Great Smoky Mountains National Park - hike in the park, visit Gatlinburg
4 Chattanooga - visit the Tennessee Aquarium and Rock City
5 Lynchburg - tour the Jack Daniel’s Distillery
6 Knoxville - visit the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame and Market Square
7 Nashville - visit Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage and enjoy the nightlife on Broadway

Food and Drink Scene of Tennessee

Tennessee has a rich culinary tradition and is famous for its barbecue, fried chicken, and whiskey. Below are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages during your visit.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hot Chicken: A Nashville specialty, this spicy fried chicken is a must-try for those who love spice.
  • Barbecue: Memphis-style barbecue is famous for its dry rub seasoning and slow-cooking process, and is a must-try for meat lovers.
  • Fried Catfish: A Southern favorite, catfish is often served fried and is a staple of Tennessee cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Jack Daniel’s whiskey: This iconic whiskey is produced in Lynchburg, Tennessee, and the distillery offers tours and tastings.
  • Mountain Dew: This popular soda was created in Tennessee and has been a favorite for generations.
  • Sweet Tea: Closely associated with Southern cuisine, sweet tea is a refreshing and sweet iced tea that is perfect for a hot day.

Where to Stay in Tennessee: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tennessee offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Below are some recommendations:

  • The Peabody Memphis: Located in downtown Memphis, this iconic hotel offers luxury accommodations and is known for its legendary duck march.
  • Hutton Hotel: Located in Nashville, this boutique hotel offers modern décor and stylish rooms, and is within walking distance of many attractions.
  • Smoky Mountain Hostel: Located just outside of Gatlinburg, this hostel offers affordable and comfortable lodging options, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Tennessee: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tennessee is known for its unique arts and crafts, as well as its delicious food and drink offerings. Below are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

  • MoonPies: These sweet marshmallow treats were invented in Tennessee and have been a Southern favorite for generations.
  • Handmade Crafts: Tennessee is home to numerous artisans and craftsmen, producing everything from pottery to woodwork.
  • Music Memorabilia: As the birthplace of country music, Tennessee is a great place to pick up souvenirs related to the music scene, such as records and concert tickets.

Local Culture and Customs of Tennessee

Tennessee is known for its Southern hospitality and friendly demeanor. Visitors should be prepared to encounter friendly locals who are always willing to help out and offer suggestions for enjoying their stay.

Best Time to Visit Tennessee

Tennessee can be visited year-round, depending on what you want to do and see. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit for those who want to enjoy the outdoors, while winter is perfect for those who want to experience the holiday season in Tennessee. Summer can be hot and humid, but it is the perfect time to enjoy the state’s many water activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tennessee

Do:

  • Tip generously: Tipping is expected in Tennessee, particularly in the service industry.
  • Be friendly & courteous: Southern hospitality is a way of life in Tennessee, and visitors should make an effort to be friendly and courteous to everyone they encounter.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine: Tennessee has a rich culinary tradition, and visitors should take advantage of the many delicious dishes and drinks on offer.

Don’t:

  • Be late: Punctuality is important in Tennessee, and being late is considered rude.
  • Use slang or curse words: Tennesseeans are polite and well-mannered, and using inappropriate language can be viewed as disrespectful.
  • Disrespect the state’s natural beauty: Tennessee has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country, and visitors should take care to preserve and respect it.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tennessee

Tennessee is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in tourist areas, and avoid leaving valuables in your car or unattended in public places.

Health in Tennessee

Tennessee has a variety of medical facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers, and visitors should ensure they have adequate medical coverage before arriving. It is also important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen if you plan on spending time outdoors.

Getting to Tennessee: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tennessee is easily accessible by car, plane, or bus.

Airports Near Tennessee

Major airports near Tennessee include Nashville International Airport and Memphis International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Tennessee

Greyhound and Megabus provide transportation to and from Tennessee, with bus stations located in various cities throughout the state.

Other Options

Tennessee is also accessible by train, with Amtrak stations in cities such as Memphis and Newbern.

How to Get Around in Tennessee

Tennessee can be easily explored by car, but visitors can also take advantage of public transportation options such as buses and trains. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in cities such as Nashville and Memphis, and bicycles can be rented for exploring the numerous trails and parks throughout the state.

Where to Go Next from Tennessee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tennessee is located in the heart of the South, making it a great jumping-off point for exploring nearby destinations such as:

  • Atlanta, Georgia: Located just a few hours from Chattanooga, Atlanta offers a variety of attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca Cola, and Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.
  • Louisville, Kentucky: Known for its bourbon and horse-racing, Louisville is a great destination for those interested in Southern culture and history.
  • New Orleans, Louisiana: Famous for its vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and unique culture, New Orleans is located just a few hours south of Memphis.

Conclusion

Tennessee is a truly unique destination that offers something for everyone, from historic landmarks and museums to stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan the perfect trip to Tennessee and make memories that will last a lifetime.



    Central Tennessee
    Eastern Tennessee
    Western Tennessee