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35 top things to do in tennessee.

Get inspired to plan your next vacation to the Volunteer State.

Top Things to Do in Tennessee

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Spend a few days exploring several top destinations or take an epic vacation to experience all that the great state of Tennessee has to offer.

Tennessee's abundant beauty, rich history and music culture are just a few reasons to visit the Volunteer State. There are also natural wonders, outdoor adventures and top-notch attractions beckoning nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. During your visit, be sure to sample the state's famous barbecue, sip a little whiskey, listen to some live music and enjoy a healthy dose of Southern hospitality along the way. Here's a list of the must-see Tennessee attractions and experiences.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

With more than 522,000 acres of forest, mountains, waterfalls and wildlife stretching across Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. The park boasts 850 miles of backcountry trails and features about 70 miles of the Appalachian Trail: Top hikes include the 5.4-mile round trip to Rainbow Falls and a steep climb up to the summit of Chimney Tops for sweeping mountain views. Also not to be missed is Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park – and in Tennessee – at more than 6,600 feet in elevation. Note that the road to the tower is closed during the winter months.

Thousands of species of animals and plant life flourish in the park, including elk, deer, black bears and more than 1,600 varieties of wildflowers. For a fully immersive Great Smoky Mountains experience, make reservations to camp: Cades Cove Campground is situated in a gorgeous valley with ample wildlife-watching opportunities and an 11-mile route you can explore by car, bicycle or on foot.

See more of Great Smoky Mountains National Park:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Courtesy of The Peabody Memphis

Known to many as the birthplace of both the blues and rock 'n' roll, Memphis is all about music. Top-rated attractions include Beale Street (where live music venues abound), the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, Graceland, Sun Studio and more. Sun Studio visitors say that the former recording studio, though small, packs in a lot of information, and listening to the old music clips from legends like Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis is priceless.

The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel is another one of the city's top attractions, along with a riverboat cruise on the "Mighty" Mississippi. Book accommodations at The Peabody Memphis and watch the famous Peabody Ducks as they strut their stuff down the lobby's red carpet to the hotel fountain daily. When it comes to Tennessee barbecue, grab lunch or dinner across from The Peabody at the iconic Rendezvous, which has been serving up Memphis-style ribs since 1948.

See more of Memphis:  Things to Do | Tours |  Hotels

Fans from all over the world make the pilgrimage to Graceland to visit the home of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley. The bustling entertainment complex in Memphis boasts 120 acres of museums and memorabilia dedicated to the legendary performer. You'll need tickets to access Graceland and its collections of Elvis' cars, jets, jumpsuits and other artifacts. Consider splurging on the "Ultimate VIP Tour" package for an expert-led tour of Graceland Mansion as well as access to a VIP-only exhibit and other exclusive perks that travelers say are worth the money. Recent visitors also recommend allowing for at least half a day to see most everything.

Movie fans may want to visit Graceland for the "Making of ELVIS Movie Exhibition." Open through Sept. 4, 2023, this special exhibit features behind-the-scenes insight into the making of the film, along with props, costumes worn by the actors and set pieces. After you explore, plan to stay at The Guest House at Graceland to enjoy all of the highlights, memorabilia, Elvis-themed events and live concerts.

Address: 3717 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis, TN 38116

Read: The Best Graceland Tours and Tips for Visiting

Country music fan favorites in the city of Nashville include the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium and the Johnny Cash Museum. Head to famous honky-tonks along Broadway like the iconic Tootsie's Orchid Lounge and Robert's Western World to see up-and-coming artists and maybe even get a chance celebrity sighting. Then, duck into themed signature bars and restaurants owned by top country artists like Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton and Dierks Bentley (plus a Garth Brooks-owned bar slated to open in 2023).

While on Broadway, visit the National Museum of African American Music to learn about a variety of genres. For the full Nashville experience, visit one of the city's famed listening rooms, such as the legendary Bluebird Cafe, where songwriters including the likes of Taylor Swift and Keith Urban perform original songs and share stories.

But there's more to Music City than its tunes. Reserve a room at The Union Station Nashville Yards – favored by visitors for its historic architecture and prime location near downtown – then bring your appetite to Assembly Food Hall. The building features international and locally inspired eateries, cocktails, incredible rooftop views and live music. You'll also want to set aside time to visit more of the city's museums, including the Parthenon replica, Frist Art Museum and the Tennessee State Museum. Venture to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, where history and botanical experiences await, and end your Nashville adventure with a dinner showboat cruise on the General Jackson.

See more of Nashville:  Things to Do  | Tours  |  Hotels

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Courtesy of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

History enthusiasts and country music devotees alike will appreciate the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , a top Nashville attraction. A stop at the three-story building begins with exploring the museum gallery's permanent and rotating exhibits, which highlight the genre from its early beginnings to country music's biggest celebrities. You'll see a variety of clothing, instruments and memorabilia such as Elvis Presley's Gold Cadillac and Garth Brooks' guitar, interspersed with sound and video clips. There's a wall of gold and platinum albums, plus the Hall of Fame Rotunda with plaques of all the inductees. Before your visit, be sure to check the calendar for "Songwriter Sessions" in the museum's Ford Theater, concerts in the CMA Theater or special programs in the Taylor Swift Education Center.

While at the museum, consider a Hatch Show Print tour to explore a working letterpress print shop dating back to 1879. If you're looking to stay nearby, the Omni Nashville is connected via indoor walkway to the museum. What's more, you can add a tour of RCA Studio B (a short shuttle ride away to Music Row) to learn more about the recording process and get a music history lesson detailing all the artists from Elvis to Dolly Parton who recorded within those walls.

Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville, TN 37203

Pigeon Forge

This little mountain town at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains has kept families entertained with thrill rides, outdoor activities, music and dining for many years. Pigeon Forge may be best known for Dollywood, but many other tourist attractions and culinary options are worth exploring as well. Roller coaster enthusiasts will want to check out Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show & Adventure Park, home to the zip line coaster Flying Ox.

The Island in Pigeon Forge is another family-friendly entertainment center that has rides, escape rooms, shopping and dining. Be sure to take a spin on SkyFly: Soar America, an indoor theater adventure that soars high above iconic U.S. locations. While in town, plan to stay at The Inn on the River Hotel. Situated on 3 acres on the Little Pigeon River, this property is a traveler favorite for its great hospitality and close proximity to restaurants, shopping and top attractions.

See more of Pigeon Forge:  Things to Do  | Dinner Shows |  Hotels

Courtesy of Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

Named after, inspired by and partially owned by country star Dolly Parton, Pigeon Forge's Dollywood offers 160 acres of kid-friendly thrill rides, live shows, entertainment and plenty of Southern-inspired dining. In May, the park will debut Big Bear Mountain − its longest roller coaster at almost 4,000 feet, themed around the region's black bears. Dollywood's Splash Country, the water park, features mountain views, a 1,500-foot lazy river and exciting waterslides.

Stay nearby at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort or opt for one of the property's luxury log cabins. If you're visiting in late 2023 or beyond, consider Parton's second resort, HeartSong Lodge & Resort, scheduled to open in November. Guests of DreamMore enjoy comfortable accommodations and various dining options; those with a valid Dollywood ticket receive a TimeSaver Pass, complimentary transportation from the parks and other amenities. Travelers appreciate all the family entertainment and the friendly staff.

Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

See: The Best Water Parks in the USA

Chattanooga

Chattanooga sits on the banks of the Tennessee River in the Appalachian Mountains, bordering Georgia. The city boasts impressive museums, a vibrant downtown area, and lively shopping and arts districts. Major attractions in Chattanooga include the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Zoo, Lookout Mountain and the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, the oldest and largest of the U.S. Civil War parks. Save time to explore the city's railroad heritage too, with a stay at the Chattanooga Choo Choo , a railway station-turned-hotel, as well as train rides at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

"Coolidge Park is a must in Chattanooga – particularly if you're visiting with kids," recommends Amanda Norcross , travel content and SEO strategist at U.S. News. "The interactive water fountains are so much fun and the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day." She also notes how easy it is to get around Chattanooga: "The Chattanooga Riverwalk essentially connects all of the city's top attractions and neighborhoods, and there's always some type of event (or several) going on by the water – concerts, festivals, you name it."

See more of Chattanooga:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Tennessee Aquarium

Take a journey from the mountains to the sea at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. In one building, explore the mountains and rivers of east Tennessee in River Journey, then travel to the sea in Ocean Journey (a building all its own). With more than 10,000 animals here, you can expect to see river otters, lemurs, penguins, sharks, colorful fish and octopuses. In the "River Giants" exhibit, there are freshwater fish from around the world that grow to monstrous proportions. What's more, the "Turtle of the World" gallery has the most extensive collection of turtles of any accredited zoo or aquarium in the U.S.

For a real treat, book the guided "Deeper Dives" tour, which takes you behind the scenes before the aquarium opens. You'll also want to catch an immersive show at the IMAX Theater. Patrons call the Tennessee Aquarium a world-class facility, with some even praising it as one of the best aquariums they've visited.

Address: 1 Broad St., Chattanooga, TN 37402

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail in Tennessee

Jeffrey S. Otto | Courtesy of Tennessee Department of Tourist Development & Journal Communications

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail covers 15 states and more than 100 locations that were significant to the civil rights movement – and you'll find more than a dozen of these locales in Tennessee. In Memphis, visit a handful of sites including the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel as well as Clayborn Temple next to I AM A MAN Plaza, where sanitation workers protested in 1968. Then, travel a little more than 200 miles northeast to visit Nashville's seven stops, ranging from the Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library to the National Museum of African American Music .

Complete your journey across the state in Clinton, about 175 miles east of Nashville, to learn about the Clinton 12 at the Green McAdoo Cultural Center. After the Supreme Court's Brown v. Board of Education ruling, these 12 Black students stepped inside an all-white public high school in August 1956, making it the first integrated school in the South. Visitors to the cultural center say it's very well done and expressed that their visit was a moving experience.

Titanic Museum Attraction

Courtesy of Titanic Museum Attraction

Owned and curated by the man who co-led the diving expedition to the Titanic in 1987, this impressive museum in Pigeon Forge brings the history of the legendary ship to life. The top-rated Titanic Museum Attraction houses artifacts from the Titanic Historical Society, maintaining more than 400 relics and memorabilia from the ship.

The exterior of the building is about half-scale of the actual ship size, but the interior re-created rooms are true to life. Inside, you'll find an exact replica of the Grand Staircase as well as galleries filled with information about the ship and stories from survivors. There's even a Memorial Room dedicated to the more than 2,200 passengers and crew members. Travelers suggest spending at least two hours here to hear the emotional stories of the survivors and better understand what happened that fateful evening in April 1912.

Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Lookout Mountain

Situated just minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain's attractions focus on the immediate area's natural beauty. Located deep within the mountain, Ruby Falls has the tallest and deepest underground waterfall in the U.S. Explore the cave and the falls on a tour, after which you can brave the climbing tower or a zip line adventure. The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway will also get your adrenaline pumping as the more than 125-year-old funicular railway climbs Lookout Mountain. After a mile-long ride, hop off at the top of the mountain to take in the views of the Tennessee Valley from the overlook at the observation deck.

Just over the state line, Rock City Gardens, one of the top things to do in Georgia , boasts panoramic views and other attractions atop Lookout Mountain. "Rock City Gardens is especially fun at Christmastime, when it hosts the Enchanted Garden of Lights," Norcross says. "The Fairyland Caverns display feels almost otherworldly!" Other travelers say Lookout Mountain is worth a visit and the vantage point from the mountaintop is incredible.

Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Since pre-Civil War times, Tennessee has long been known for its whiskey. Today, there are more than 30 distilleries and 800-plus miles of scenic landscapes to cover on the statewide Tennessee Whiskey Trail. In fact, the trail's official website estimates you'll need 14 days to visit all the spots, and you can register for an analog or digital whiskey passport to collect stamps. The complete itinerary includes stops in and around Nashville, Knoxville, the Smoky Mountains, Chattanooga and Memphis. Be sure not to miss the Lynchburg and Tullahoma area, home to the historic George Dickel and Jack Daniel's distilleries.

In between stops, check out Civil War battlegrounds, live music venues, local food favorites and hidden gems in smaller towns, as well as state parks with outdoor adventures. For accommodations in Memphis, consider staying at the outdoor-themed, pyramid-shaped Big Cypress Lodge , which affords views of the Mississippi River. The historic Hermitage Hotel is a top choice in Nashville, while in the Knoxville area The Oliver Hotel is a traveler favorite due to its close proximity to Market Square.

The Parthenon

Located in Centennial Park in Nashville's West End, the Parthenon is the only exact replica in the world of the ancient temple in Athens, Greece . Regarded as the park's centerpiece, the Parthenon was constructed as a temporary structure in 1897 to celebrate 100 years of Tennessee statehood. In 1920, after Nashville had been known for years as the "Athens of the South," the Parthenon was rebuilt with the help of a local architect and an architectural historian.

Since the 1930s, the Parthenon has hosted rotating art exhibits in its galleries; today, as Nashville's art museum, it continues to feature temporary exhibitions and shows. The museum's permanent collections include paintings by 19th- and 20th-century American artists as well as 14 casts of the Parthenon Marbles. You'll also find an impressive replica of the Athena Parthenos statue from ancient Greece. The Parthenon and this statue are a must-see, according to traveler reviews.

Address: 2500 West End Ave., Nashville, TN 37203

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest

The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is one of the beloved events that takes place during the Memphis in May International Festival. The contest dates back to 1978, when it began in a parking lot with just 20 teams. In 2022, the four-day event brought more than 200 competition cooking teams from 24 states and four foreign countries to compete. So, if you're craving all things pork and want to see unique themed team tents and live entertainment while having a bit of over-the-top fun, head to Tom Lee Park along the banks of the Mississippi River in May. In 2023, the festival will run from May 17 to 20.

Josh Brasted | Courtesy of Country Music Association

June is also a busy month in Tennessee, with the four-day CMA Fest as one of the top events in the state. The annual Nashville event began as Fan Fair with 5,000 people in attendance; tens of thousands of attendees now come from all over to see more than 260 performers. The fan-favorite event is celebrating 50 years in 2023, and attendees can see award-winning and chart-topping artists like Carly Pearce, Lainey Wilson, Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Tim McGraw – as well as emerging country artists. The event takes place in downtown Nashville and features six daytime and two nighttime stages, including larger venues like Nissan Stadium alongside indoor venues at Music City Center. You also won't want to miss the neon lights of the honky-tonks and festivities along Nashville's famous entertainment district on Broadway Street.

"Travelers should expect a party atmosphere if they choose to visit Nashville during CMA Fest," says Marisa Méndez , a senior travel editor at U.S. News and CMA Fest attendee. "You'll encounter massive crowds of music fans (with expensive hotel rates to boot) and the tradeoff is a slew of excellent concerts. If you aren't a diehard country music fan or you dislike massive crowds (like me!) then choose another time to visit."

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Set off from Nashville on a scenic journey along this 444-mile recreational road. Meandering through three states, this national parkway roughly follows the "Old Natchez Trace," a historic route once used by Indigenous people, European settlers, soldiers and more. Along the way, travelers can experience camping, biking, hiking and horseback riding while soaking in all the natural beauty. There are a variety of short trails along the parkway to explore waterfalls, natural wonders and historic landmarks.

The Lost Sea

Jeff Adkins | Courtesy of Journal Communications Inc.

Travel 140 feet below ground to see the largest underground lake in America. The aptly named Lost Sea sits about 50 miles southwest of Knoxville in Sweetwater. The 75-minute guided tour begins with a short walk that past travelers say can be challenging, so wear comfortable nonslip shoes. As the guides explain the history of the cavern, you'll learn how geological factors created the rare formations and cavern rooms. At the end of the tour, hop on a boat ride to see the clear waters of this 70-foot-deep lake spread across more than 13 acres of water. Visitors comment that walking through the cave is a great experience, but seeing the lake is what's truly worth the price of admission.

A stop in Sweetwater could be a daytrip from Knoxville, but you can also linger longer by renting a cabin or cottage. Sweetwater's historic district has unique shops and boutiques to peruse, and don't miss a visit to Sweetwater Valley Farm's cafe to enjoy farm-fresh dairy specialties.

Address: 140 Lost Sea Road, Sweetwater, TN 37874

Located around 20 miles south of downtown Nashville, Franklin is a must-visit for history buffs, shoppers and music lovers alike. The Battle of Franklin – one of the Civil War's bloodiest battles – occurred here, and visitors can learn all about it with a trip to the well-preserved Civil War sites of Carnton, Carter House and the Lotz House. The 16-block historic downtown is an idyllic destination for shopping, dining, intimate songwriter rounds, art and special events. For a classic Southern meal, grab a bite to eat at Puckett's Restaurant with its laid-back atmosphere and live music.

Consider an overnight stay at The Harpeth, where travelers say the staff and accommodations are exceptional; many also praise the on-site bar and restaurant. Vinophiles may want to venture to some of middle Tennessee's vineyards, including the award-winning Arrington Vineyards. You can sample the wines, have an outdoor picnic and catch live music on weekends in the warmer months.

The Memphis Zoo

Phillip Van Zandt | Courtesy of The Memphis Zoo

Located in Memphis' Overton Park, the Memphis Zoo has been a major attraction since 1906. The zoo's property covers nearly 80 acres and is home to more than 500 species of animals that reside in various zones and exhibits. In Cat Country, you can view elusive snow leopards, African lions and near-threated jaguars. The China exhibition encompasses 3 acres and features Asian wildlife including Francois langurs and Sulawesi crested macaques.

See: The Best Zoos in the U.S.

The Hermitage

Courtesy of The Andrew Jackson Foundation

Located about 10 miles northeast of Nashville, The Hermitage – not to be confused with Nashville's Hermitage Hotel – is a 1,120-acre property and mansion that President Andrew Jackson and his wife, Rachel, once called home. Jackson lived at The Hermitage from 1804 – when he purchased the property as a 425-acre plantation, relying on the labor of enslaved Black people – until his death in 1845. Over the years, the mansion has undergone extensive renovations and additions.

Today, the house features most of Jackson's personal artifacts. Several tour options of the mansion and its grounds are available, including two different tours that teach visitors about the lives of the enslaved men, women and children who worked on this plantation and generated Jackson's wealth. Travelers say the tours are a very informative and educational experience; they also appreciate how much history is preserved at the property. Don't miss the exhibits at the visitor center, and before leaving be sure to sample wines from the Natchez Hills Vineyard and Winery tasting room at The Hermitage.

Address: 4580 Rachel's Lane, Hermitage, TN 37076

Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is the perfect base for outdoor adventure. The Sugarlands entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just outside of downtown, but there's many exciting things to do while in this part of east Tennessee. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area offers year-round family fun with amusement rides, an aerial tramway, ice skating, snow tubing, skiing and other activities. Many patrons enjoy this attraction, though they warn it can get overcrowded, so aim for weekdays and other off-peak times.

During your jaunt in Gatlinburg you can also visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, walk a 680-foot-long suspension bridge at Skylift Park, and zip to the top of Anakeesta theme park on the Chondola. For an extended stay, make reservations at the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg or The Lodge at Buckberry Creek , two of the top hotels in Gatlinburg . Then, wake up early to beat the crowds at the iconic Pancake Pantry, Tennessee's first specialty pancake restaurant.

Spend the night in a treehouse

Courtesy of Sanctuary Treehouse Resort

Opened in spring 2023, Sanctuary Treehouse Resort is touted as the largest treehouse resort in the world. Set amid 40 acres of picturesque land in the Smoky Mountains, the property has a variety of luxurious treehouses for couples and families, with whimsical amenities like rope swings, escape hatches, slides and hidden beds. Located on two championship golf courses, the property is ideally situated near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Resort guests can choose from three types of tree houses, including the family-friendly Tree Fort with room for up to six guests, as well as the Luxe, which is geared toward couples with an outdoor tub.

Address: 107 Pheasant Ridge Road, Sevierville, TN 37876

Learn about Native American history

Courtesy of Sequoyah Birthplace Museum

Native Americans have inhabited the land of Tennessee for about 12,000 years. Many places in the state, such as Chattanooga and Tullahoma, have names of Indigenous origin – even "Tennessee" itself derives from a Cherokee word for "where the river bends." Today, you can explore Native American heritage across the state.

Plan to begin your journey in the town of Vonore at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum. Located around 35 miles southwest of Knoxville, this museum is owned and operated by the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation and pays tribute to Sequoyah, who is best remembered for creating the Cherokee writing system. Also on-site is the Cherokee Memorial, where archaeological remains from former Cherokee towns of the 18th century are buried. Afterward, plan to visit The Tanasi Memorial, where Tennessee's namesake – a former Cherokee village – is commemorated 12 miles southeast of the museum.

Part of the more than 5,000-mile Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, which spans nine states, runs through Tennessee. In the 1830s, the U.S. government forced Native American tribes across the Southeast to relocate from their ancestral homelands to west of the Mississippi River; the ensuing journey became known as the Trail of Tears. Throughout Tennessee, you'll find more than a dozen places to visit to learn more about the horrific trek, including the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park in Birchwood. Visitors to this site, located in the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge, comment that it's a beautiful and much-needed memorial to Native Americans.

The Caverns

Katherine Brown | Courtesy of The Caverns

Home to the TV series "The Caverns Sessions" (formerly "Bluegrass Underground"), The Caverns is an otherworldly cave system that boasts more than 8,000 linear feet of passageways in Pelham, around 60 miles northwest of Chattanooga. During the day, take a guided tour of the caves for a behind-the-scenes look at the underground concert venue as well as one of the world's largest underground rooms. Adrenaline-seekers can book the Adventure Cave Tour, a true spelunking trip where few have gone before.

At night, listen to top music acts in Big Mouth Cave. The concert hall serves food and brews and is also accessible for music fans with mobility issues. Reviewers call the underground concert experience unique and fun. Extend your visit with the "Stay & Cave" package, which includes lodging, ground transportation and other amenities.

Address: 555 Charlie Roberts Road, Pelham, TN 37366

The eastern city of Knoxville is home to outdoor adventure, museums, history and a vibrant arts scene. Plan to stay a few days at The Tennessean , a hotel centrally located downtown. Then, walk over to Market Square, where you can explore the shopping, dining and entertainment options. Other highlights in the city include the Sunsphere tower's Observation Deck at World's Fair Park, the East Tennessee History Center and the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture.

For outdoor enthusiasts, visit what the city has dubbed its Urban Wilderness. The collection of open-air attractions features 50 miles of trails, lakes and parks as well as a 500-acre wildlife area; Ijams Nature Center is ideal for hiking, biking, fishing and rock climbing. Finally, Civil War and history buffs can chart out a visit to battlefields like Fort Sanders or plot a driving tour of the area's Civil War sites.

See more of Knoxville:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Known as the "Secret City," Oak Ridge quickly developed on a tract of rural farmland purchased by the government during World War II. More than 100,000 people of various professions were brought to this city to work on the top-secret Manhattan Project, unaware the devastating atomic bomb they were producing would end WWII.

While in town, plan to explore this significant part of U.S. history at the Oak Ridge History Museum and the K-25 History Center, which travelers appreciate for being well done and informative. Other fun things to do in Oak Ridge include off-road adventures at Windrock Park and bike riding, jogging, fishing or swimming at Melton Lake Park.

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival

Courtesy of Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival

The first Bonnaroo festival took place in 2002, with its name inspired by a Dr. John album; the Creole slang word "bonnaroo" translates roughly to "best on the street." The annual music, arts and camping event convenes with as many as 80,000 festivalgoers on the 650-acre Bonnaroo Farm in Manchester, about 65 southeast of Nashville.

The four-day Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival typically occurs in mid-June: In 2023, it runs from June 14 to 18. This event features more than 150 musicians performing on 10 stages; four camping barns; and nonstop entertainment, food and parties. Expect to see and hear everything from rock to hip-hop to jazz. Past performers have included Bob Dylan, Jay-Z, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, Eminem, Radiohead and U2.

Address: 1560 New Bushy Branch Road, Manchester, TN 37355

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Located around 70 miles north of Chattanooga in Spencer, Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of the largest and most visited state parks in Tennessee, with nearly 30,000 acres spanning the top of the Cumberland Plateau. The park's rugged terrain boasts gorges, streams, lush hardwood forests and waterfalls such as the 256-foot-high Fall Creek Falls. There are more than 50 miles of hiking trails, including two overnight, long-distance routes.

The Nature Center at Fall Creek Falls hosts naturalist-led programs with activities like campfires, games, live music, movies and more. Visitors say the park is beautiful and the walk to see the falls from the overlook is short and pleasant, while the hike to the base of the waterfall can be challenging. Plan to stay a few days in one of the 30 cabins or camp outdoors under the stars at your choice of more than 200 campsites. For less rustic accommodations, reserve one of the guest rooms at the Lodge at Fall Creek Falls.

Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Courtesy of Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, situated about 40 miles northwest of Knoxville in Petros, was Tennessee's first maximum-security prison, known as the "End of the Line." The facility offers self-guided tours that cover 30 stations and stories throughout the prison. Guests can visit most parts of the prison, including the cell block, cafeteria, laundry room, exercise yard and the "HOLE," where inmates were sent for solitary confinement in complete darkness.

Former inmates and prison guards are stationed throughout the prison to share stories of life in Brushy and give guided tours, which you must book in advance. The more adventurous explorers may enjoy an overnight paranormal tour. Most travelers find the guide-led tours interesting and educational. Sample the End of the Line moonshine at the on-site distillery or dine at the Southern-inspired Warden's Table restaurant. Note that this site closes for the winter.

Address: 9182 state Route 116, Petros, TN 37845

Discovery Park of America

Courtesy of Discovery Park of America

Discovery Park of America will entertain family members of all ages. You'll want at least one full day to visit this 100,000-square-foot museum and the surrounding 50-acre heritage park in Union City, about 115 miles northwest of Memphis. Indoor exhibits include 10 galleries and interactive displays highlighting everything from technology and space to art and regional history. Discovery Park also offers a 20,000-gallon aquarium, a theater and the tallest observation tower in the area.

Go outside to visit a replica 19th-century frontier settlement or see a gristmill in action in a re-created early-1900s town. You can also wander through Japanese and European gardens and explore a train station. The park even has a river, waterfalls and a playground inspired by nature. Visitors say the museum is worth a visit and that it's both educational and great fun. If you have time, visit Union City's historic downtown area or check out nearby Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot Lake State Park in Tiptonville. For an overnight stay, reserve accommodations at a hotel in Union City or set up camp near Reelfoot Lake.

Address: 830 Everett Blvd., Union City, TN 38261

See: Excellent Educational Vacations for Families

Museum of Appalachia

Courtesy of Museum of Appalachia

The 65-acre Museum of Appalachia in Clinton is a living history museum that makes for a perfect daytrip from Knoxville, since it's about 25 miles northwest. This authentic mountain farm and pioneer village, a Smithsonian Affiliate, features 35 log cabins, barns, churches and schools; its more than 250,000 artifacts compose collections of folk art, musical instruments and more. You can also stroll through several gardens and see free-range farm animals. Be sure to check out the indoor exhibits, including the Hall of Fame building, which honors interesting individuals with a connection to the Southern Appalachians.

Tourgoers are impressed with the informative exhibits and myriad artifacts, saying they come away with an appreciation for the history and lives of the Southern Appalachian people and their culture. Plan to spend a few hours at the museum. After your tour, take a walk by the Clinch River, visit Clinton's antiques district and then head over to Hoskins Drug Store, where you'll find an old-fashioned lunch counter and soda fountain.

Address: 2819 Andersonville Highway, Clinton, TN 37716

Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

Courtesy of Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

This historic Greek Revival mansion and surrounding 5,400 acres highlight Tennessee's history, architecture and equestrian heritage. A variety of tour options awaits you at Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery, about 10 miles southwest of Nashville. Guests say the entire estate is beautiful and the popular "Mansion Tour" provides a good historical overview – plus a complimentary wine tasting. "Journey to Jubilee" offers insight into the lives of the enslaved people who worked here for nearly a century, while the "Southern Food Traditions" walking tour takes you outside. There are even guided tours geared toward children.

Following whatever tour you choose, browse the specialty stores and wine shop. End your visit with a traditional Southern-style lunch at the on-site restaurant. For more of a taste of Belle Meade's wines or bourbon, reserve a spot for one of Belle Meade's culinary experiences.

Address: 110 Leake Ave., Nashville, TN 37205

Reelfoot Lake

Created in the early 1800s by a series of violent earthquakes, the 15,000-acre Reelfoot Lake sits in the northwest corner of the state in Tiptonville. This natural lake is unlike the state's many artificial reservoirs formed by damming. Reelfoot houses a unique ecosystem: a flooded forest whose cypress trees rise above the water's surface but are also submerged below as stumps.

Birders will enjoy touring with park naturalists to view the shore and wading birds. In winter thousands of American bald eagles converge on the lake – an occasion marked by the Reelfoot Lake Eagle Festival every February. Visitors enjoy the scenery, recreational activities, camping and peacefulness of the lake. For an extended getaway, bed down at Blue Bank Resort or set up camp in Reelfoot Lake State Park.

Read: The Top Lakes in Tennessee

Visit the Birthplace of Country Music

While Nashville may be known as the "Country Music Capital of the World," Bristol is actually considered the birthplace of the genre. This twin city is located directly on the Virginia and Tennessee state line at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Check out the Birthplace of Country Music Museum – a Smithsonian Affiliate – to learn about the genre's roots and the 1927 Bristol Sessions.

If you're visiting in September, consider attending the three-day Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion, or catch live music around town year-round. While in Bristol, you can take in a race at the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway, snap a selfie while standing in two different states, and take in the region's beautiful scenery at South Holston Lake and Dam. Consider spending the night at The Bristol Hotel for the rooftop bar, regional cuisine and boutique accommodations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She visited Nashville for the first time at the age of 6 and fell in love. She's been making regular visits to the state of Tennessee throughout her life, and has visited Memphis, Graceland (twice), Nashville more times than she can count, Chattanooga, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and more. Hood has attended multiple CMA Fests and is always looking for her next chance to head to Tennessee. She used her personal experience along with travel research expertise to update this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Tennessee
• The Top Things to Do in Kentucky
• The Top Things to Do in Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Arkansas
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South

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20 Best Places to Visit in Tennessee, According to Locals

From small towns and state parks to some of the most exciting cities in the South, here are 20 of the best places to visit in Tennessee.

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If you’re looking at a map of the entire United States, Tennessee is easily one of the most recognizable states. Shaped like an irregular parallelogram, it’s nearly four times long as it is wide — measuring around 420 miles from east to west and 120 miles from north to south. What the two-dimensional view doesn’t tell you, however, is that its borders contain a seemingly endless number of variations in both scenery and culture. “Tennessee is a perfect mix of urban and rural, casual yet sophisticated with easy proximity to the great outdoors,” explains Cassidee Dabney, executive chef of The Barn at Blackberry Farm . “Throw in brilliant musical and cultural heritage, fantastic high and low culinary destinations, and rich and diverse geography, and you have a state that will keep you entertained and engaged.”

Its largest cities — Nashville , Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga — are on many travelers’ radars, but a true understanding of Tennessee can only be discovered through a more nuanced itinerary. “I think visitors here should get off the interstate to explore and go through small towns. Otherwise, you miss the local places that give this state so much great color and character,” says Tandy Wilson, chef and owner of City House , Nashville. 

To ensure your next trip to the Volunteer State is filled with well-rounded experiences and amazing points of interest, we tapped a few locals for advice on the best places to visit in Tennessee. Read on to see which cities, towns, and sights made the cut.

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There’s no doubt Music City, suggested by several of our experts, tops the list. As you plan your trip, be sure to keep in mind some of Wilson’s favorite places to eat. He recommends the mac and cheese at Silver Sands Cafe — “I want real Southern mac and cheese, and this is the only place I know to get it” — the giant prawns and fried squid at Red Perch , and the nachos and wings at Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint .

While Nashville has plenty to offer, there’s one part of the city you absolutely can’t miss: Broadway. “First-timers have to go honky-tonking on Broadway. Hit up Robert’s Western World for cold beers, fried bologna sandwiches, and country music,” says Dabney. David Mishkin, executive property manager at Southall Farm & Inn , also shares this is a crucial addition to your Nashville visit: “There's so much to see, eat, and experience. Country music is everywhere, and the performances are all high quality. It's difficult to not enjoy yourself when being immersed in the energy and action.”

“When I think about Memphis, I think about music, art, and beautiful historical architecture,” says Stephanie King , an artist based in the state’s southwesternmost city. This creative side of Memphis can be found in many areas, but King shares that The Memphian Hotel is a good place to start. “To me, The Memphian embodies so many aspects of Memphis in the most inspired, welcoming way. It feels as if the intention when designing the environment was to create pure magic. There is local art lining the walls, layers of colors and texture, whimsy and sophistication all rolled into a comfortable, home-like atmosphere,” she says.

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The storied home of Elvis Presley, Graceland is located 12 minutes from downtown Memphis. A destination in and of itself, the historic property includes the King of Rock and Roll’s mansion, gardens, cars, and The Guest House at Graceland, where music fans can stay overnight to experience the resort’s dedication to luxury and Southern hospitality.

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Make your way to Eastern Tennessee to cheer on the Vols in Knoxville. Or, if you’re not a sports fan, spend your day exploring the city. “Downtown Knoxville is a great area to park and walk around Market Square and the Old City. There’s a great farmers’ market on Saturdays in the warmer months that’s a must-visit,” says Dabney. Her ideal visit to the Cradle of Country Music includes stops at Cruze Farm , J.C Holdway , Yassin’s Falafel , and a spirit tasting at PostModern Spirits Distillery .

Related : 10 Best Places to Live in Tennessee, According to Real Estate Experts

Leiper’s Fork

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You’ll need to drive 45 minutes southwest of Nashville to find Leiper’s Fork, one of the most charming small towns in Tennessee . According to Mishkin, it’s a “charming place to grab some barbecue, do some antique shopping, and enjoy a delicious drink at the distillery.” Like many places in the state, it has a relationship with music. If that’s up your alley, check out Fox & Locke , which Miskin says is a “well-known place for people to come together for food, drinks, and live music.”

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Chattanooga.

Of all the river cities in the South, Chattanooga is one of the best. “You have to visit Rock City and Ruby Falls if you’re in the area, and the art museum is great,” says Dabney, referring to the Hunter Museum of American Art in the Bluff View Art District. In between outdoor activities and cultural sights, you’ll want to fill up with fried chicken and tamales at Champy’s and wash them down with cocktails at The Rosecomb .

South Cumberland State Park

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With 56 state parks, Tennessee is the perfect destination for those who find peace and happiness among the trees and fresh air. South Cumberland State Park is about an hour from Chattanooga, and it’s where you’ll find the Fiery Gizzard Trail. “It’s near Beersheba Springs and Old Stone Fort outside of McMinnville, and it’s just full of natural beauty. To tackle this hike, you need to be able to walk a few miles, but it’s one we take the kids on,” says Wilson.

Ocoee River

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“Ocoee River Area is my favorite area in Tennessee,” says King. “You can whitewater raft, kayak, hike, camp, [and] bike.” Flowing northwestward through the Appalachian Mountains, the river can be easily accessed from Chattanooga. Many people choose to take advantage of the rafting, but the area can also be explored by driving the Ocoee Scenic Byway .

Related : 17 Best Glamping Spots in Tennessee — From Vintage Airstreams to Stargazing Domes

Courtesy of Blackberry Mountain

Walland might ring a bell because of its association with Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain . “You can hit Blackberry Farm for a high-end luxury experience with trails, mountain biking, a James Beard award-winning restaurant, spa, farm animals, workshops, and concerts,” says King. Dabney also shares her suggestions for the Mountain, saying, “You can’t go wrong with a guided hike to Leo The Enlightened (a large sculpture from Danish artist Thomas Dambo that overlooks the valley), sound bathing, spending an afternoon behind the wheel of a Lexus tacking the Off Road Adventure, and throwing clay at the art studio.”

Fall Creek Falls State Park

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“ Fall Creek Falls State Park is another unbelievable spot for camping, biking, and hiking,” says King. Covering 30,638 acres, it’s one of the largest state parks in Tennessee. Along with its size, it has a few other features that set it apart, including interesting geological formations (caves and gorges) and scenic waterfalls.

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It’s easy to overlook Franklin in favor of its neighbor to the north, Nashville, but travelers would be remiss to not spend at least an afternoon in this historic community. “Nothing beats walking down this picture-perfect Main Street on a beautiful day. With curated shops and friendly faces everywhere, we often spend our days wandering through town with the family,” says Mishkin. For a longer trip, stay overnight at the gorgeous Southall Farm & Inn , which opened in late 2022.

Cummins Falls State Park

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“ Cummins Falls is a great waterfall to visit, and it’s a great short hike in the summer,” says Wilson. Just make sure to bring your swimsuit along with your hiking clothes to the 306-acre park. “It’s just gorgeous here – it’s more socially recreational and a lot of fun and a cool place to swim.”

Related: This Tennessee Town Is Home to America's Largest Underground Lake — and You Can Sail a Glass-bottomed Boat on It

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A small city close to Knoxville, Maryville is an excellent choice if you love all things outdoors. “Book a room at RT Lodge , a charming lodge tucked away behind Maryville College. You'll feel secluded while in the center of town, and they have a great restaurant and a gorgeous bar called The Morningside,” says Dabney. “With RT as your base camp, take a quick drive to the Great Smoky Mountains.”

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the most-visited national parks in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is notable for its lush forests, wildflowers, rivers, streams, waterfalls, and incredible hikes. “My favorite hike in the Smokies is Indian Flat Falls . It's about 6 miles and pretty moderate with scenic waterfalls, plus you can turn around at any point,” says Dabney.

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Gatlinburg maintains the title of “gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” so there’s a good chance your hiking trip will start here. There are three park entrances right in town, and Mishkin says the “immersion within nature is worthy of the trip.” “The history contained within remnants around the parks also shows how people lived 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 — whom King calls “an American icon and a Tennessee favorite” — and it’s filled with activities for the whole family, whether you’re interested in the theme park, shopping, or hiking in the Smoky Mountains. It’s also the location of Parton's newest venture, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort , a 302-room lodge that opened this past November.

The Caverns

“The Caverns is another East Tennessee spot that offers great concerts, especially Bluegrass. There is one indoor, underground cave venue and another outdoor amphitheater,” says King. You can view upcoming shows online as you begin to plot out your trip. And don’t forget to bring your hiking boots, too. “Around The Caverns, there are trails, rock climbing, waterfalls, and stunning overlooks.”

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Bristol, Tennessee is the twin city of Bristol, Virginia. Both states even claim the main street, aptly named State Street, as their own — allowing you to stand in two states at once. No matter if you’re staying on the Virginia side or the Tennessee side, there are a few important things to check off your bucket list, including snapping a photo with the iconic Bristol sign , checking out the Bristol Motor Speedway , and visiting the Birthplace of Country Music Museum .

Related : Discover Appalachian Cuisine, Craft Distilleries, and Music History on a Tennessee Road Trip

Reelfoot Lake State Park

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King notes that Reelfoot Lake State Park in Northwest Tennessee is “home to the most beautiful Cypress trees” and notable for its birdwatching opportunities with “more than 270 species of birds.” It’s also totally different than other parks in the state. The lake itself is a flooded forest, and the Cypress trees King mentioned rise above the water to set a majestic scene. 

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15 Best Weekend Getaways In Tennessee—From The Mississippi River To The Smoky Mountains

Enjoy a weekend getaway in the Volunteer State.

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Measuring roughly 440 miles in length from west to east, Tennessee encompasses diverse geography and culture. If you’ve seen the state’s flag, you may have wondered why it has three stars. Each represents one of the state’s grand divisions: West, Middle, and East. With unique landscapes, history, and activities, the three regions each hold special opportunities for weekend getaways in Tennessee.

Beginning in the west, the state borders the Mississippi River . The land that stretches inland from Memphis is part of the Gulf Coastal Plain. It includes flat stretches of fertile soil that gradually evolve into low rolling hills and wide stream valleys. Crossing over the Tennessee River, Middle Tennessee brings the Highland Rim and Nashville Basin, with level plains, undulating hills, and fertile farmland, before shifting into the Cumberland Plateau—characterized by flat-topped tablelands, crooked stream valleys, rocky cliffs, and plentiful waterfalls. You meet the Tennessee River once again traveling into East Tennessee, where the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains are the defining feature of the state’s eastern border. 

If you’re looking to get a taste of the numerous styles and scenery that Tennessee has to offer, we’ve got you covered with this list of weekend getaways. We’ll start with towns in West Tennessee—where the state’s lowest point stands in the Mississippi River at just 178 feet above sea level—travel through Middle Tennessee, and end with overnights in East Tennessee, where the highest point is Clingmans Dome at 6,643 feet in Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Collierville, Tennessee

TENNESSEE TOURISM

With its entire downtown area listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Collierville offers a charming weekend getaway just 30 minutes outside Memphis. Spend your afternoon exploring specialty boutiques around Collierville Town Square—a spot literally out of a Hallmark movie, having been the filming site for “Wedding at Graceland” in 2019. The Little Shop by the Tower is your go-to for regionally made art and souvenirs. For supper, pop into local favorite Raven & Lily Restaurant for Southern-inspired upscale dining.

Paris, Tennessee

While not the Paris you’ve likely heard about, this small northwest Tennessee town still boasts a 70-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower —a perfect photo op for your weekend getaway. Plan your visit in late April to partake in the city’s annual World’s Biggest Fish Fry , where more than 12,500 pounds of catfish and all the fixins are served. Opt to camp at Paris Landing State Park to enjoy water sports and outdoor recreation alongside the 160,000-acre Kentucky Lake.

Savannah, Tennessee

Located on the shores of the Tennessee River in the southwest portion of the state, Savannah is a perfect weekend getaway for appreciating the history and beauty of the river. Start at the Tennessee River Museum for educational and interactive exhibits detailing the unique history of the Tennessee River Valley from prehistoric life through post-war reconciliation. Then head to the Walker Branch State Natural Area to enjoy 520 acres of bald cypress, mature tupelo gum, and other diverse forest types in the Tennessee River’s floodplain. 

Granville, Tennessee

Operated by 200 volunteers and, as the town describes, “punctuated by front porches,” this little Tennessee gem offers a weekend away on the banks of the Cumberland River. A town tour ticket ($7 for adults) gives you access to a range of quirky and historic buildings and museums, such as the Antique Car Museum , Granville Whiskey Decanter Museum (hosting the world’s largest collection of whiskey decanters), and the Mayberry and I Love Lucy Museum . Book your stay at Granville Bed & Breakfast to stay in the heart of the town. Plan your visit around one of Granville’s many annual events, such as Steamboat Days, the Scarecrow Festival, or the Cornbread and Moonshine Festival.

Franklin, Tennessee

AMY ALLMAND | VISIT FRANKLIN

About a 30-minute drive south from Nashville, you’ll find yourself in Franklin , a perfect blend of modern amenities, scenic countryside, and historic streetscapes. Drive a section of the Natchez Trace Parkway as it winds its way from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi . Stop in Gray’s on Main in the evening for Southern fare, craft cocktails, and live music. If you’re looking for a memorable place to rest your head, try Southall Farm & Inn , a 325-acre luxury spa resort, wellness retreat, and working farm with 62 guest rooms and 16 cottages.

Lynchburg, Tennessee

TENNESSEE TOURISM/KATIE KAUSS

Home of Jack Daniel’s Distillery , a weekend trip to Lynchburg isn’t complete without a visit to the facility. You can choose from one of three tours: the Angel’s Share, the Flight of Jack Daniel’s, or the Dry County. Each offers different tasting options paired with unique stories about the whiskey maker’s history. Grab dinner at Miss Mary Bobo’s Restaurant , which has been serving up Southern eats since 1908, just off Lynchburg’s historic town square.

Sewanee, Tennessee

Home to the University of the South and St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School, Sewanee is a perfect weekend getaway for anyone interested in arts and education. The schools host lectures, art exhibitions, and concerts that are open to the public. Outdoorsy travelers will love a stay at the Sewanee Bicycle House , lodging with three bedrooms and two full baths that caters to cyclists, hikers, and other nature lovers. For more traditional accommodations, book a night at The Sewanee Inn , where Southern hospitality and Gothic charm merge. Guests have easy access to the university and can enjoy amenities like scratch-made cocktails, golfing, and comfort food. 

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga blends outdoor culture with vibrant city amenities, making for an eventful weekend getaway. Take a stroll across the Walnut Street Bridge, a pedestrian walkway across the Tennessee River, after grabbing a cone at The Ice Cream Show . Spend your day exploring world-class museums and attractions, such as the Hunter Museum of American Art and the Tennessee Aquarium . For a unique stay, book a night at the Chattanooga Choo Choo , a 24-acre hotel and vacation complex in the heart of the city, where you can opt to sleep in an authentic railcar room .

Ducktown, Tennessee

If you’re looking to get away from it all, head to Ducktown in the southeast corner of the state. This tiny town is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Ocoee River. Schedule a whitewater rafting trip with Wildwater Ltd. for some weekend thrills. Learn about the town’s copper mining history at the Ducktown Basin Museum . Book a stay at The Company House Bed & Breakfast Inn to unwind after your day.

Sevierville, Tennessee

The hometown of American sweetheart Dolly Parton, Sevierville offers Smoky Mountain magic with a more local vibe when compared to its neighbors, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg . The city recently completed a $7.5 million streetscape project as part of an effort to renovate its historic downtown. Make your way there to take your picture with the Wings of Wander mural, painted to celebrate the monarch migration through the Smokies. Enjoy duckpin bowling and retro arcade games at The Pines , the newly restored theater where Dolly played her first paid gig. Dine at The Appalachian for a delicious meal fueled by regional flavors before resting your head at the Historic Central Hotel —all within walking distance of each other.

Knoxville, Tennessee

With vibrant music, art, outdoor, and culinary scenes , Knoxville is guaranteed to offer endless opportunities for weekend fun. Head to Ijams Nature Center , a more than 315-acre urban park along the Tennessee River where you can kayak in Mead’s Quarry Lake, embark on a high ropes course, or attend a naturalist program. Stop by the Sunsphere , built for the 1982 World’s Fair, for panoramic views of the city. Get some shopping done downtown at local businesses like Union Ave Books , Rala , and Earth to Old City . Grab dinner on Market Square at Tomato Head or Café 4 before catching a show at the Tennessee Theatre or Bijou Theatre . Stay close to all the action with accommodations at The Tennessean .

Cumberland Gap, Tennessee

KORRIN BISHOP

Surrounded by Cumberland Gap National Historical Park , the small town of Cumberland Gap offers a quiet weekend getaway in the mountains. In addition to hiking to Tri-State Peak, where you can see Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia all at once, visitors to Cumberland Gap will enjoy its quaint downtown. Stop by the Little Congress Bicycle Museum for a quirky, hole-in-the-wall homage to pedal power, as well as the Cumberland Gap Artists' Co-Op for a celebration of Appalachian crafts. Book your stay at The Olde Mill Inn Bed and Breakfast , which includes unique rooms like an authentic 1700s log cabin and a king-sized custom millwork masterpiece.

Bristol, Tennessee

If you’re looking for a weekend full of music and fishing, then look no further than Bristol. Visit in September to attend the city’s annual Rhythm & Roots Festival or come year-round to check out the Birthplace of Country Music Museum . Book your stay at the South Holston River Lodge for an all-inclusive experience with professionally guided fly fishing excursions, luxury riverside accommodations, delicious food, and more. You can also find guide services and outfitting a half-mile from the Weir Dam at South Holston River Fly Shop . At the end of the day, grab dinner at Bistro on 6th and then take a quick stroll across the state line into Virginia for dessert at Blackbird Bakery .

Johnson City, Tennessee

For a weekend of brewery hopping and outdoor adventures, set your sights on Johnson City. Spend your days hiking at Buffalo Mountain Park , cycling the Tweetsie Trail to Elizabethton, and mountain biking at Tannery Knobs . If you need an outfitter, Local Motion Cyclery is conveniently located at the Johnson City end of the Tweetsie Trail. Sample beers after an active day at Watauga Brewing Company and Yee-Haw Brewing Company downtown. Go calorie load for your next day’s adventures with dinner at Southern Craft BBQ .

Jonesborough, Tennessee

JONESBOROUGH TOURISM DEPARTMENT

Tennessee’s oldest town, Jonesborough is the perfect weekend getaway for storytellers and history buffs. The Historic Eureka Inn , Crescent Harbor Train Car , and Historic Stone Cellar Suite all offer accommodations with a side of town lore. Learn more Jonesborough tales at the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum , which offers walking tours with guides dressed in late 19th and early 20th century-style clothing. Visit in October for the town’s famous National Storytelling Festival , or attend its Storytelling Live! series, featuring afternoon storytelling from May through October. Strolling downtown presents a variety of shops for local gifts, such as Mill Spring Makers Market , Mauk’s , and Jonesborough Antiques & Artisans . Savor breakfast at The Corner Cup , grab lunch at Main Street Cafe & Catering , and end with dinner at Texas Burritos and More .

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• Last Updated On
• August 21, 2023

Tennessee Itinerary: Must-See Attractions And Hidden Gems

Is planning your family getaway to Tennessee becoming more challenging than you anticipated?

I’m here to assist.

This Tennessee itinerary I’ve prepared uncovers a mixture of iconic destinations, undiscovered nooks, and savvy advice to optimize your trip.

Leveraging my extensive travel experience and repeated trips to the Volunteer State, I’m eager to offer you some select itinerary suggestions for a memorable journey.

Are you raring to immerse yourself in Nashville’s lively music scene or enthusiastic to embark on the majestic Smoky Mountain trails?

Tennessee’s versatility will cater to your every mood, appeasing peace seekers and adventure lovers alike.

So, ease your nerves and get set for an engrossing exploration through the breathtaking landscapes of Tennessee.

Tennessee itinerary: Exploring its cities

From the music-filled streets of Nashville to the historical sites of Memphis, Tennessee’s cities offer something for everyone.

Memphis Highlights

Memphis is known for its blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll music, as well as its delicious barbecue.

A visit to Memphis should include a stop at Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley.

Other must-see attractions include the National Civil Rights Museum, Beale Street, and the Memphis Zoo.

Nashville, the Music City

Nashville is the perfect destination for music lovers.

The city is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, and countless live music venues.

Downtown Nashville is a hub for shops, restaurants , and hotels , making it the perfect place to stay while exploring the city.

Chattanooga Charm

Chattanooga is a charming city nestled in the mountains of Tennessee.

The city is home to the Tennessee Aquarium, the Creative Discovery Museum, and the Hunter Museum of American Art.

For a scenic view of the city, take a ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway.

Gatlinburg Gateway

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The city is home to the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.

Visitors can also explore the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, which features over 100 artists and craftsmen.

Where to Stay

When exploring Tennessee’s cities, there are plenty of hotels to choose from.

In Nashville, the Germantown neighborhood is a trendy spot with plenty of foodie hotspots.

For a classic Nashville experience, stay in the Broadway District, where live music venues and nightlife abound.

No matter which city you choose to explore, Tennessee offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Historical Attractions

When planning the best family vacation spots in Tennessee , exploring the state’s historical attractions is a must.

When it comes to history, Tennessee has a lot to offer.

From music legends to civil rights icons, there are plenty of historical attractions to explore.

Here are some of the most popular ones:

Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry is a must-see for any music lover.

This iconic venue has been showcasing country music legends since 1925.

You can catch a live performance or take a backstage tour to learn about the Opry’s history.

No visit to Tennessee is complete without a trip to Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley.

You can tour the mansion and see how the King of Rock and Roll lived.

Don’t forget to check out the extensive collection of Elvis memorabilia.

Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”

It has hosted countless legendary performers, including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Patsy Cline.

Take a tour to learn about Ryman’s history and see where some of the biggest names in music have performed.

Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of country music.

The museum features exhibits of the genre’s biggest stars, including Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn, and Garth Brooks.

You can also check out the extensive collection of instruments and memorabilia.

National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum is located in Memphis and is dedicated to the history of the civil rights movement.

You can learn about the struggle for equality and see exhibits on leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.

Belle Meade Plantation

Belle Meade Plantation is a historic plantation in Nashville.

It was once one of the largest thoroughbred horse farms in the country.

You can take a tour of the mansion and learn about the history of the plantation and its owners.

Johnny Cash Museum

The Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville is a must-see for any fan of the Man in Black.

The museum features exhibits on Cash’s life and career, including his early years, his time at Sun Records, and his later work.

Tennessee State Museum

The Tennessee State Museum is located in Nashville and features exhibits on the state’s history.

You can learn about everything from the Civil War to the state’s role in the space program.

These attractions are just a few of the many historical sites that you can explore during your visit.

Natural Wonders

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Tennessee , you can’t miss out on the state’s natural wonders.

From the majestic Smoky Mountains to the stunning Ruby Falls, Tennessee is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country.

Smoky Mountains

The Smoky Mountains are one of the most popular natural wonders in Tennessee.

These mountains are part of the Appalachian range and are known for their stunning views, diverse wildlife, and excellent hiking trails.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there’s a trail for you in the Smoky Mountains.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience in the Smoky Mountains, you should visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

This park is home to over 800 miles of hiking trails, as well as diverse wildlife and stunning waterfalls.

Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the views in this park are truly breathtaking.

Lookout Mountain

Located in Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain is another must-see natural wonder in Tennessee.

This mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as a variety of outdoor activities.

You can hike the trails, explore the caves, or even take a ride on the Incline Railway, which is one of the steepest passenger railways in the world.

If you’re looking for a unique natural wonder in Tennessee, you should visit Ruby Falls.

This stunning underground waterfall is located deep within Lookout Mountain and is only accessible by guided tour.

During the tour, you’ll learn about the history of the falls and the geology of the surrounding area.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a break from the city, Tennessee’s natural wonders offer something for everyone.

From the stunning views of the Smoky Mountains to the unique beauty of Ruby Falls, these natural wonders are sure to leave you in awe.

Cultural Experiences

Tennessee is a state rich in culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local scene.

From live music to delicious food and drink, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Music Scene

Music City, also known as Nashville, is the heart of Tennessee’s music scene.

It’s a city that’s known for its live music, and you’ll find plenty of venues where you can enjoy a night out listening to some of the best musicians in the country.

Whether you’re into blues, gospel, or country, you’re sure to find a venue that suits your taste.

Food and Dining

Tennessee is famous for its food, and there are plenty of restaurants that serve up some of the best dishes around.

If you’re in the mood for some barbecue, then you can’t go wrong with Central BBQ.

Their ribs are a must-try, and they’ve got a great selection of sides to choose from.

For something a little different, head to Biscuit Love for some delicious biscuits and fried chicken.

It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, and their menu has something for everyone.

Tennessee Breweries

Tennessee is home to some great breweries, and you’ll find plenty of places where you can sample some of the best beers around.

If you’re in Nashville, then be sure to check out Yazoo Brewing Company.

They’ve got a great selection of beers on tap, and their taproom is the perfect spot to hang out with friends.

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, then head to Blackhorse Brewery in Clarksville.

Their beers are delicious, and they’ve got a great outdoor patio where you can enjoy a pint in the sunshine.

During my last trip to Tennessee, I made it a point to visit as many local breweries as possible.

I was blown away by the beer quality and the friendly atmosphere at each one.

If you’re a beer lover, then you won’t be disappointed with what Tennessee has to offer.

Road Trip and Accommodation

Road trip tips.

Embarking on a road trip in Tennessee is an excellent way to explore the state’s diverse landscapes and lively cities.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Plan your route carefully: Before hitting the road, make sure to plan your route carefully. Look up maps and driving directions to ensure you don’t get lost along the way.
• Pack smart: When packing for your road trip, bring along essentials like snacks, water, a first aid kit, and entertainment options like books or games.
• Take breaks: Driving for long periods can be tiring, so make sure to take breaks every few hours to stretch your legs, grab a snack, or use the restroom.
• Stay safe: Always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and be aware of your surroundings while driving.

Accommodation Choices

When it comes to accommodation options, Tennessee has something for everyone, from cozy cabins to luxurious hotels.

Here are some popular options to consider:

• Cabins: If you’re looking for a rustic and cozy experience, consider renting a cabin.

Many cabins come equipped with a kitchen and other amenities, making them an excellent choice for families.

• Hotels: Tennessee has a wide range of hotels , from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts.

Many hotels offer amenities like a pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.

• Campgrounds: For nature lovers, camping is an excellent option.

Tennessee has many campgrounds, including those in state parks, offering beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.

No matter what type of accommodation you choose, make sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

This will help ensure you get the best rates and availability.

Seasonal Information

If you’re planning a trip to Tennessee, it’s important to know what to expect depending on the season.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in the fall and summer:

Fall in Tennessee

Fall in Tennessee is a beautiful time of year.

The temperatures start to cool down, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping.

The leaves also start to change colors, making for some stunning views.

If you’re planning a trip to Tennessee in the fall, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, the temperatures can vary quite a bit, so make sure to pack layers.

Second, fall is a popular time for tourists, so be prepared for crowds at popular attractions.

Finally, make sure to check out some of the fall festivals happening throughout the state.

Some of the most popular include the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough and the Tennessee Valley Fair in Knoxville.

Summer Vacations

If you’re looking for a summer vacation destination, Tennessee is a great choice.

The temperatures are warm, making it the perfect time for water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing.

There are also plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, like visiting museums and shopping.

One of the most popular summer destinations in Tennessee is Gatlinburg.

This charming mountain town is home to a variety of attractions, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

Another popular summer destination is Nashville, which is home to a variety of music festivals and outdoor concerts.

Unique Tennessee Experiences

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Tennessee , you won’t be disappointed.

The Volunteer State is full of unique experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

Here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss.

Owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, Dollywood is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Tennessee.

This amusement park is perfect for families, with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages.

Plus, you can enjoy live music and delicious food while you’re there.

Jack Daniels Distillery

Located in Lynchburg, the Jack Daniels Distillery is a great place to learn about the history of this iconic Tennessee whiskey.

Take a tour of the distillery to see how the whiskey is made, and enjoy a tasting of some of the best whiskey in the world.

Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga is a great place to explore the underwater world.

With exhibits featuring everything from sharks to penguins, you’ll be amazed at the variety of marine life on display.

Plus, the aquarium is committed to conservation, so you can feel good about supporting a good cause.

Memphis Zoo

The Memphis Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country, with over 3,500 animals from around the world.

You’ll be able to see everything from giant pandas to African elephants.

Plus, the zoo is committed to animal welfare and conservation, so you can feel good about your visit.

Studio B Tour

If you’re a music fan, you won’t want to miss the Studio B Tour in Nashville.

This recording studio is where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and many other music legends recorded some of their most famous hits.

Take a tour to see where the magic happened and learn about the history of country music.

Don’t miss out on these unique experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

Parting Words

After exploring some of the best places, Tennessee is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your family.

From the bustling city of Nashville to the serene Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee has something to offer for everyone in the family.

Whether you’re a music lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a history buff, Tennessee has it all.

Be sure to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum in Tupelo, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg.

And don’t forget to try some of the famous Southern cuisine while you’re in town.

As you plan your Tennessee itinerary, be sure to take into account the time of year you’ll be visiting.

Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and beautiful scenery.

What are you waiting for?

Hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Volunteer State.

Related: Traveling to Tennessee for the First Time

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some recommended tennessee itineraries for a 4-day trip.

If you only have four days to explore Tennessee, we recommend focusing on one region. For example, you could spend all four days in Nashville, Memphis, or the Smoky Mountains. Alternatively, you could split your time between two regions, such as Nashville and the Smoky Mountains. Some must-visit attractions in Nashville include the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Johnny Cash Museum. In the Smoky Mountains, be sure to visit Cades Cove and hike to Clingmans Dome.

What Is The Best Route For A Road Trip To Tennessee From Florida?

If you’re driving to Tennessee from Florida, the best route depends on where in Florida you’re starting from. If you’re starting in Miami, we recommend taking I-75 north to Atlanta, then taking I-24 west to Chattanooga and Nashville. If you’re starting in Tampa, you can take I-75 north all the way to Tennessee.

What Are Some Self-Guided Road Trip Options For Exploring Tennessee?

Tennessee is a great state for a self-guided road trip. Some popular routes include the Natchez Trace Parkway, which runs from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi, and the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River through Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi. You could also explore the backroads of the Smoky Mountains or take a drive along the Tennessee River.

How Long Does It Take To Drive Through Tennessee On I-75?

If you’re driving through Tennessee on I-75, it will take you approximately 5-6 hours to drive from the Georgia border to the Kentucky border. However, we recommend taking your time and exploring some of Tennessee’s attractions along the way, such as Chattanooga’s Lookout Mountain or Knoxville’s Market Square.

What Are The Top Must-Visit Places In Tennessee?

Tennessee has so many must-visit places that it’s hard to narrow it down. Some of our favorites include Nashville, Memphis, the Smoky Mountains, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. In Nashville, be sure to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Ryman Auditorium. In Memphis, don’t miss Graceland and Beale Street. In the Smoky Mountains, be sure to hike to Clingmans Dome and visit Cades Cove. In Chattanooga, check out Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee Aquarium. In Knoxville, explore Market Square and the Knoxville Museum of Art.

Is 3 Nights Enough To Explore Nashville?

While you could spend weeks exploring Nashville, three nights is enough time to see some of the city’s highlights. Be sure to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Johnny Cash Museum. You could also take a walk down Broadway and check out some of the honky-tonks. If you have time, consider taking a day trip to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg.

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15 Fun Tennessee Road Trips For Your Bucket List

February 19, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for fun Tennessee road trip ideas to add to your bucket list? Then you’ll love this list of fun and unique road trip ideas.

Tennessee is a beautiful state in the Southern United States most known for country music, beautiful mountain views, and Tennessee Hot Chicken. But there are so many other things that also make the state an awesome place to visit. Whether you’ve got a long weekend or a whole week to visit, you wont regret taking a road trip to see some of the best Tennessee has to offer.

Whether you want to hit all the major cities and explore the country music scene, taste your way through the state, or just enjoy the views, there is a Tennessee road trip for you. We’ve found the 15 best road trips that will make sure you get the most out of your next trip to Tennessee.

Tennessee Waterfalls Road Trip

• Cummins Falls
• Burgess Falls
• Fall Creek Falls

Thanks to the landscape of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee has some beautiful waterfalls. Start your trip at Cummins Falls on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River. It is a very popular waterfall to visit and swim in during the warmer months. Next, head to Burgess Falls. Burgess Falls is in the Burgess Falls State Park, where you can find a total of four different waterfalls.

Continue on to Falls Creek Falls. It is a beautiful waterfall that has been featured in films and is the most visited State Park in the Summer. Finish your waterfall road trip at the Twin Falls. It is not a naturally formed waterfall, but it is stunning any time of the year, but especially during the Fall.

Big City Lights Road Trip

Start your Big City Lights road trip in the Western tip of Tennessee in Memphis. There you’ll want to take a tour of Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland, walk down Beale Street, and explore the National Civil Rights Museum. From Memphis, continue heading East to Nashville.

In Nashville, enjoy the Country Music Capital by visiting the Grand Ole’ Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and exploring the famous Centennial Park. Finish your Big City road trip in Knoxville. There you’ll be able to visit the Sunsphere, the World’s Fair Park, and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

Best of Nature

• Twin Arches
• Rock Island State Park
• Lookout Mountain
• Cherohala Skyway

Start your journey through the best natural wonders of Tennessee in the North at Big South Fork State Park. There, you’ll want to take the Twin Arches Loop Trail where you can get close up views of the two natural rock arches on the trail. From there, continue South to Rock Island State Park. There you can see beautiful waterfalls and the Caney Fork River Gorge.

Continue South to Lookout Mountain. At Lookout Mountain you can purchase tickets to see the Ruby Falls, the “Seven States View”, or ride the Incline Railway. End your road trip by heading East towards Cherohala Skyway. It borders on North Carolina and offers picturesque views of the forested mountainside.

Haunted Tennessee

• Bell Witch Cave
• Stones River National Battlefield
• Hurricane Mills

Lovers of the supernatural will love this road trip, and definitely recognize the first stop on the Haunted Tennessee Road Trip. The Bell Witch Cave is infamous after a local family was haunted for years by the ghost of a witch that claimed to be from a nearby cave system. So, of course, it’s the first stop on your road trip.

Next, head South to the Stones River National Battlefield. There you can look for ghostly apparitions walking the grounds. End your Haunted Tennessee Road Trip in Hurricane Mills. There you can explore the Loretta Lynn Ranch which is rumored to be haunted.

Fall Foliage

• Port Royal State Park
• Ocoee Scenic Byway
• Great Smoky Mountain State Park

For the ultimate Fall Foliage Road Trip through Tennessee, start in the Northwestern part of the state at Port Royal State Park. There you can hike the trails or take a historical tour of the small town of Port Royal. From there, head Southeast to the Ocoee Scenic Byway.

As you drive the Ocoee Scenic Byway you’ll get to experience stunning views of rock bluffs and mountain peaks covered in bright Fall foliage. Finish your Fall Foliage Road Trip at the Great Smoky Mountain State Park. There you can go hiking, admire waterfalls, and even go whitewater rafting while you take in the beautiful fall colors. Check out the best places for Fall Foliage in Tennessee!

Covered Bridges

• Harrisburg Covered Bridge
• Bible Covered Bridge
• Elizabethton Covered Bridge

You’ll start your tour of Tennessee’s covered bridges outside of Pigeon Forge at the Harrisburg Covered Bridge. The Harrisburg Covered Bridge was originally built in 1875 and features a traditional king post truss design. From there, head North to the Bible Covered Bridge.

The Bible Covered Bridge is painted a deep brick red and resembles a barn. Just outside the bridge, there is a large plaque that details its history. Finish your trip at the Elizabethton Covered Bridge. Constructed in 1832 it is 134ft and painted white, making it a very unique covered bridge.

National Parks of Tennessee

• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park

Begin your National Parks of Tennessee road trip at the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. It’s home to one of the natural wonders of Tennessee, the Twin Arches. From there, head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

There are plenty of things to do in and around the Great Smoky Mountains, so plan to spend some time there. End your tour of Tennessee’s National Parks at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. There you can learn about the battle that effectively ended the Civil War and Confederacy.

Abandoned Tennessee

• Gilley’s Hotel
• Island View School
• The Minister’s Treehouse
• Tennessee State Prison

Tennessee has some unique abandoned structures, and finding them makes for a fun road trip itinerary. In Bulls Gap you’ll explore Gilley’s Hotel and it’s where you’ll start your road trip. Continue South to the Island View School, an old school house that is abandoned on the side of Boyds Creek Highway.

Next, you’ll head to The Minister’s Treehouse, which is got to be one of the coolest things in all of Tennessee. It is a treehouse that was built by Minister Horace Burgess after he felt called by God to build it. Finish your trip at the Tennessee State Prison, which is the home of the famous ‘The Green Mile’.

The Great Smoky Mountains

• Sevierville

You’ll want to start your drive through the Great Smoky Mountains in Knoxville. Explore the beautiful city with the Great Smoky Mountains in the background. Next, continue on to Sevierville. Hike the Laurel Falls Trail, admire 360 views from Clingman’s Dome, and grab some BBQ for dinner.

While on the way to Gatlinburg, if you have the time, stop in the adorably kitschy Pigeon Forge . If you don’t have the time, finish your trip in Gatlinburg . There you’ll find the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and you’ll get to experience the full majesty of the mountain range. You’ll want to spend a few days there exploring before you leave.

Tennessee Foodie Trail

• Hagy’s Catfish Hotel Restaurant
• Prince’s Hot Chicken
• Barrel House BBQ
• Doc Collier Distillery

Tennesse is an amazing state for foodies to explore. For this road trip, you’re going to span the state, and start in the Southwest. There you’ll find Hagy’s Catfish Hotel Restaurant. Enjoy amazing fried fish and Southern comfort food staples. Next, head to Nashville for Prince’s Hot Chicken. Prince’s is the father of Nashville Hot Chicken, and is an absolute must visit for any serious foodie.

From Nashville, head south to Lynchburg and feast on delicious BBQ at Barrel House BBQ. It is one of the best BBQ places in Tennessee and you’ll leave happy and full. Finish your Tennessee Foodie Trail with some Tennessee whisky at the Doc Collier Distillery in Gatlinburg . You’ll end your trip sampling whisky and flavored moonshines. It can’t get more Tennessee than that!

Theme Parks of Tennessee

• Soaky Mountain
• Lake Winne and Soakya Waterpark

Thrill seekers will love exploring some of the best Theme Parks of Tennessee. If you are traveling in the Summer, you’ll want to make sure your first stop is the Soaky Mountain waterpark in Sevierville. It is a large park with water coasters, slides, a splash mat, and so much more. A trip to Tennessee wouldn’t be the same if you didn’t stop at Dollywood.

Dollywood celebrates Dolly Parton and has coasters, amazing park restaurants, and awesome live shows. Next head to Anakeesta, a theme park in the mountains of Gatlinburg . You’ll be able to zip line, go gem mining, ride mountain coasters, and enjoy a tree canopy walk. Finish your adventure at the Lake Winne and Soakya Waterpark. It is a small park on the state line with Georgia and offers vintage style coasters, a small waterpark, and kiddie rides.

Tennessee’s Scenic Byways

• Antebellum Trail
• Cumberland Scenic Byway
• Cades Cove Loop

Tennessee is a beautiful state, so it is naturally full of scenic byway, many of which you can use to explore the entire state. For this road trip, we suggest starting on the Antebellum Trail, an unofficial scenic byway that starts South of Nashville in Franklin. It takes you through the middle of Tennessee where you’ll get to admire beautiful Antebellum Architecture.

While you’re in the middle of the state, hop onto the Cumberland Scenic Byway. You’ll pass through several counties and make your way to the Great Smoky Mountains. Stop at any one of the scenic overlooks to enjoy the beautiful views. Finish your trip in the Great Smoky Mountains on the Cades Cove Loop. You’ll enjoy stunning views of the mountains and historical buildings inside the park.

Hiking Through Tennessee

• Ramsey Cascades
• Abrams Falls Way
• Rainbow Falls Trail
• Cataract Falls

Hiking Through Tennessee is an amazing way to see the state. The road trip starts off at Ramsey Cascades, which are actually the highest falls in the Smokies. Next, head to Abrams Falls Way. There you’ll hike to one of the smaller waterfalls on this trip, but the views are beautiful.

At the Rainbow Falls Trail you’ll actually be close to three trail heads. One for Rainbow Falls, one for Baskins Creek Falls, and one for the Grotto Falls. You can hike all of them or one of them, whatever you have time for. Finish the road trip at Cataract Falls. Its about a half mile hike and is actually one of the easiest hikes in the area, which is a perfect way to end a day or weekend spent hiking.

Hidden Gems of Tennessee

• The Lost Sea
• The Ministers Treehouse
• The First Cracker Barrell Old Country Store
• Geographic Center of Tennessee

Tennessee is full of unique attractions that you can only find in the state. Start your journey to the Hidden Gems of Tennessee in Sweetwater where you’ll explore the Lost Sea. You’ll tour 3/4 mile cavern system and get to take a short boat tour on the underground lake. Next, head to the Minister’s Treehouse. It is a massive abandoned treehouse structure built by a Minister in the early 1990s.

Continue your journey to the very first Cracker Barrell Old Country Store. It was opened in 1969 and now you can visit it at the Wilson County Fairgrounds. End your road trip at the Geographic Center of Tennessee. You can mark your trip by taking a picture next to the obelisk along the side of the road.

Tennessee’s Ghost Towns

• Mousetail Landing State Park
• Big Greenbriar

Start your spooky road trip through Tennessee’s Ghost Towns at Mousetail Landing State Park. Legend has it that an entire town was flooded and is now hidden under the murky waters of lake at Mousetail Landing. Continue on to the town of Wheat, which was once a thriving city. Now all that’s left of it is the small George Jones Missionary Church.

Your next stop is one of Tennessee’s most haunted towns – Elkmont. It was originally a logging camp, then a popular vacation spot, but after the land was bought in the 90s by the National Parks service it was quickly abandoned. Now it is a ghostly city in the mountains that is run down and decaying. End your trip through Tennessee’s haunted towns in Big Greenbriar. It too was once a popular city, but after the local industry dried up, it was quickly abandoned and now is nothing but stone foundations.

Have you done any of these fun Tennessee road trips, or anything similar? If you have, what was your favorite part of your trip? If you haven’t tried any of these road trips yet, let us know in the comments which one you want to try!

11 Best Road Trips in Tennessee

Even in the cities, you can't escape the country ingrained in Tennessee. Musical metropolises like Memphis and Nashville put country music on the national radio. There are still hundreds of talented musicians that you can hear at the Grand Ole Opry as well as the dive bar on the corner.

If anything might be able to outdo the music in Tennessee, it's the food. From hot chicken to biscuits, Tennesseans know their way around soul and comfort good. Luckily for you, there are also dozens of outstanding parks in the Southern Appalachians to walk it all off.

In our list of best road trips in Tennessee, you'll find amazing adventures from your perfect summer swimming hole to celebrating everything country in Dollywood, being charmed by antebellum homes, and feeling the majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Read on below to get some great tips on the best routes and hidden gems along the way. Soon enough you'll munch on succulent ribs and tap your toes to your favorite country ballad on your own Tennessee trip.

1. Antebellum Trail

3 hours (90 Miles)

Difficulty level: Easy

Why you should take this trip: This trip is an utter delight for lovers of history and architecture alike. Starting and ending in Nashville, travel in a loop through some of the best examples of neoclassical, Gothic, and Greek revival homes and churches in middle Tennessee.

Main stops on this road trip: You'll see historic buildings in and around Franklin, Spring Hill, and Columbia then spend some time on the Natchez Trace Parkway.

How to get there: From Nashville take Tennessee Route 31 South. This trip has dozens of potential stops between Nashville and Colombia so you can go at your own pace.

Just north of Mt. Pleasant, cut over via Tennessee Route 412 to the Natchez Trace Parkway and start heading north back towards Nashville. On this stretch of the trip there are about ten more trail markers to look out for, so drive nice and easy.

Our highlights: Franklin is a popular day trip from Nashville and there's a lot to do and see here. On this trip, you can focus on some of its historic buildings apart from the main attractions like the Carter House.

Right downtown you can admire the Gothic features of the Hiram Masonic Hall. Completed in 1823 and this building was the first Masonic Lodge as well as the first Three-story building in Tennessee.

A little ways south in Spring Hill you can find a picture-perfect example of Greek revival architecture in Ferguson Hall. For those inclined towards macabre Civil War history, this is also the site where a confederate general was killed in 1854.

Once you get to Columbia, find a place to park and then meander West 6th Street, which is on the National Register of Historic Districts. Here you will be awed at the variety of antebellum homes that line the street, creating an atmosphere that seems lost in time.

Another site of historical interest in Columbia is Clifton place, a surprisingly intact plantation once owned by a Confederate general.

Yet another treat towards the end of the trail is an early 19th-century ferry site and a house built by reported Creek War spy John Gordon.

Local gems: On your way back to Nashville along the Natchez Trace Parkway, keep an eye out for some natural beauties like the crystal-clear Jackson Falls and the inspiring vista at the Water Valley Overlook.

Our travel tips: You can buy or download a self-guided tour book for the Tennessee Antebellum Trail. When searching for guides and accommodations, be careful to note that there is another Antebellum Trail in Georgia.

Some of the beautiful homes on the trail are still private residences and not open to visitors. Look out for the Antebellum Trail logo at sites that are open to the public.

Best time to visit: This is truly an all-season trip, though the weather could get icy in the winter. The major bonuses during November and December are the dazzling decorations on these already gorgeous homes and holiday festivities in places like Franklin.

2. Waterfall Trail

2 hours (100 Miles)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Why you should take this trip: Bring your swimsuit and revel in the mist amongst some of Tennessee's most breathtaking natural attractions.

Main stops on this road trip: On this trip, you'll pass five different waterfalls: Cummins Falls, Fancher Falls, Twin Falls, Fall Creek State Park, and Savage Falls

How to get there: Starting from Cummins Falls, head towards Mayfield, TN and take Tennessee Routes 56 and 135 South to Burgess Falls and Fancher Falls, just 5 miles further along some country roads.

Follow Fanchers Mill Road to Old Kentucky Road/Tennessee Route 136 South to get to Twin Falls. From there, head northeast towards Doyle, then cut over via E Gooseneck Road to Tennessee Routes 285 and 30 East to Fall Creek Falls State Park.

Continue along TN-30 East until you get to Tennessee Route 284 West and Tennessee Route 111 South to Savage Falls.

Our highlights: Admire the steep walls of the gorge along the Downstream Trail at Cummins Falls State Park. If you come on a hot day the swimming hole at the base of the falls will be simply irresistible. This might also make them crowded on warm weekends and holidays, so aim to get there later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Rock Island State Park has some fantastic trails in addition to Twin Falls. This waterfall is unique in that it emerges from an underground source through the striated cliffs 80 feet above the Caney Fork River. Down below there is a swimming hole deep enough to jump into from the rugged cliffs.

The aptly named Fall Creek Falls State Park is home to five waterfalls, including the tallest one in Tennessee which plunges 256 feet from up on high. At the trailhead to Fall Creek Falls, take some time to learn about the area's fascinating natural history at the Betty Dunn Nature Center.

Local gems: Fancher Falls is the secret gem on this list that isn't as popular as it deserves to be. One barrier to accessing this graceful fall is that no trails lead here, so you will have to rent a boat or Kayak to get here over the waters of Center Lake. We think this only adds to the fun!

If you like utterly photo-ready places or just want to get even more hiking in on this trip, consider stopping at Window Cliffs State Natural Area just before you get to Burgess Falls.

Our travel tips: If you want to camp at any of the waterfalls in Tennessee State Parks, then consider making an online reservation ahead of time to be sure that you'll have a place to pitch your tent.

Even though the driving time is short, you'll be taking several smaller roads and will have to keep your eyes peeled for some of the turn offs to the waterfall trailheads.

Best time to visit: Each season offers its own charms and the only time to maybe avoid this trip is during the winter.

On those hot summer days during school holidays, keep in mind that some of these swimming holes can get pretty crowded.

3. From Knoxville to Big South Fork

2 hours 45 minutes (105 Miles)

Why you should take this trip: As fun as Knoxville is, sometimes the country roads call. This trip takes you past several gorgeous state parks to the Big South Fork River, situated in some hills that offer fantastic hiking opportunities.

Main stops on this road trip: This route passes by Norris, Cove Lake State Park, Huntsville, Honey Creek Overlook, and Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.

How to get there: From Knoxville take Interstate 275 to Interstate 75 (I-75) North and follow this all the way past Andersonville and Caryville until you reach Pioneer, where you'll take Tennessee Route 297 (TN- 297) to New River and the Honey Creek Overlook.

From Honey Creek drive back to New River, then go north through Helenwood to Oneida, where you'll get back on TN- 297 to Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.

Our highlights: Just off I-75 in Andersonville the history of this mythic mountain chain comes to life at the Museum of Appalachia. This affiliate museum of the Smithsonian Institution has a working farm and interactive exhibits that tell the story of the people of southern Appalachia.

In the Norris Dam State Park which surrounds the large reservoir, you'll find over 20 miles of hiking trails and can even rent a boat to get some time out on the water. The dam itself is pretty impressive, so if you like to geek out over feats of engineering, this place is worth a stop.

A labor of love and local history, the Scott County Jail in Huntsville is a surprisingly fun and interesting niche museum to tour. If nothing else, it offers the greatest contrast possible with the expanses of open wilderness you'll wander later on in the trip.

The Honey Creek Trail is a challenging 5.5-mile loop trail that is widely regarded as among the best hiking trains in the US. Filled with hardwood forests, majestic hemlock trees, and colorful rhododendrons, this trail also passes by Echo Rock which amplifies the sounds of the rushing Big South Fork River below. Give yourself at least 3 hours to complete this trail at a leisurely pace.

From Honey Creek in the south of the park head north to the main entrance and nexus of trails that cover the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

Here you can see magnificent sandstone gorges and arches, as well as wander the gentle, forested hills of the Cumberland Plateau. Buffalo Arch is particularly impressive and we think this area deserves at least two or three days to truly savor.

Local gems: In little Rocky Top you'll find the Coal Creek Miner's Museum. This small, but interesting collection tells the story of the brave miners who went deep into the earth to fuel America's Industrial revolution.

For “BBQ with a View” head to Rickard Ridge BBQ in Cove Lake State Park. Their patio looks over the serene lake and emerald lawn. This is an idyllic spot for a laid-back lunch.

If you simply care about the juiciest barbeque on the planet with no frills, then pick up some brisket and coleslaw at Smokin' Butts BBQ in Pioneer as you exit I-75.

Our travel tips: While this isn't a very long drive, some of the county roads, like the one leading to the Honey Creek Trail can be a challenge. Once again, a car with AWD would be best for this trip.

Big South Fork National Recreation Area has three designated campgrounds and also accommodated RV hookups. You can reserve your campsite online through the government website.

You can also hire a horse at Tally Ho Stables to get a whole different experience of the trails in Big South Fork.

Best time to visit: Since the biggest feature of this trip is the glory of nature herself, it would be best to go when the weather is warm, but not too hot. Spring and fall are both ideal, especially as the deciduous forests come alive with color as the weather changes.

Big South Fork is open year-round, so if you don't mind the cold, or even find it romantic to snuggle by a campfire, you can come here during a winter break.

4. From Sevierville to Elizabethton: Tennessee's Covered Bridges

2 hours 35 minutes (115 Miles)

Why you should take this trip: This road trip is for romantics. What is dreamier than a rendezvous under the shelter of a wooden bridge with the sounds of a burbling creek down below?

Main stops on this road trip: This trip features the Harrisburg Covered Bridge, Bible Covered Bridge, and Elizabethton Covered Bridge. It also takes you past Johnson City.

How to get there: Starting out in Sevierville, head towards Cherokee Hills then take Tennessee Route 339 East to the Harrisburg Covered Bridge. After spending some time here, get back to the Newport Highway and continue driving east to Newport.

Follow US Route 321 and Tennessee Route 340 North to Bible Covered Bridge. From this beautiful bridge, drive north towards Mosheim to link up with Interstate 81 North all the way to Colonial Heights where you'll change on to Interstate 26 East and stay on this until Johnson City.

From here, take a short drive along US Route 321 North to reach Elizabethton and the final covered bridge on this route.

Our highlights: This first covered bridge on this trip is in Harrisburg, less than 5 miles from Sevierville. Originally built in 1875, most of what we see today of the bridge is the result of its restoration in 1972.

The design is simple and elegant, sitting upon some impressive masonry, and you get some great views of the East Fork Little Pigeon River from the bridge, which is still open to traffic.

We went gaga over the little wooden windows on the Bible Covered Bridge in Greene County. Even though they were a later addition to this bridge originally built in 1923, it is hard to imagine this rustic little bridge without them. The bridge was restored in the 70's, yet the impressive truss system is from the original design.

Elizabethton has a particularly idyllic Historic District complete with white picket fences and grand, colonial-era public buildings. The surprisingly sleek covered bridge over the Doe River was built in 1882, but the angles seem to foreshadow the design trends of mid-century modernism.

Local gems: Though not exactly on the route, a short drive from Mosheim you will find the picture-perfect hamlet of Greenville. In addition to being too cute for words, here you can also visit the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site where the 17th U.S. President used to homestead.

Our travel tips: The roads on this route are accessible any time of the year, but the sights aren't quite as scenic in the winter. When the buds and birds are emerging in the spring and when the bridges are wreathed by orange and burgundy in the fall are probably the best times for this trip.

Best time to visit: In Elizabethtown, they have a fall festival in September called Covered Bridge Days filled with music, art, and plenty of restaurant options. This is yet another reason why this trip is irresistible in the fall.

5. Natchez Trace Parkway

2 hours 30 minutes (120 Miles)

Why you should take this trip: Get ready to turn back time for a leisurely trip along this National Scenic Drive – no speeding, no billboards, no gas stations – just greenery as far as the eye can see and historic stops along the way.

Main stops on this road trip: Even though the journey is the destination on this trip, you can also hop off the Parkway to explore Pasquo, Leipers Fork, Fall Hollow Falls, Collinwood, and Cypress Creek.

How to get there: The name of this trip says it all – just follow the Natchez Trace Parkway to the Tennessee and Alabama border. Take Interstate 40 West out of Nashville and exit on to McCrory Lane which will link up with the parkway in Pasquo.

Our highlights: As you leave Nashville, take time to admire the Natchez Trace Parkway double arch bridge just outside of Nashville. The white concrete of this engineering marvel stands in stark relief with the surrounding greenery.

A big draw for Civil War history aficionados, Franklin, TN was the site of one of the most gruesome battles of the war. The Carter House, where the battle was waged, still stands today and there are daily guided tours.

If you don't mind a steep trek to the basin of Fall Hollow Falls, you'll be amply rewarded by this magical waterfall set in a luscious forest with plenty of nooks and crannies to explore. It is exactly halfway through the route we've outlined and would be a great place for a picnic lunch.

Just after Gordonsburg, TN keep an eye out for Merriweather Lewis Park and National Monument. Here you'll find a reconstruction of the roadside inn, known as Grinder's Stand, where the early American explorer died under mysterious circumstances in 1806.

Local gems: Despite its name, the Loveless Café near Pasquo will make you feel deeply loved with their warm biscuits smothered in butter and peach jam. Be sure to stop by here for a hearty breakfast as you leave Nashville or order your lunch to go and picnic at one of the gorgeous parks along the Natchez Trace Parkway

Leiper's Fork is a must-see small town along the parkway. It's charming no matter when you visit, and you can get a sense of the community pulse at Fox & Locke. Yet they turn it up to eleven for their monthly farmer's market with live music and rustic country games.

The Leiper's Fork Distillery has perfected bourbon and is worth checking out as well.

Our travel tips: Being a parkway, you can expect lots of greenery on this trip, but one thing you won't see much of are gas stations and convenience stores along the way. You'll have to hop off the parkway in a little town like Collinwood, TN to do any refueling.

This scenic road stretches all the way from Nashville, TN to historic Natchez, MS, covering 444 miles of forests and swamps. If you'd like to make this a longer trip, consider driving the whole thing.

Best time to visit: As you can imagine, this trip is best suited for the spring and early summer, when the weather is warm, and the forest is bursting with life. Fall is also a particularly pretty time to do this trip with colorful foliage and fall festivals like Old Timer's Day in Collinwood Tennessee.

6. From Chattanooga to Gatlinburg: The Great Smoky Mountains

4 hours 45 minutes (200 Miles)

Why you should take this trip: Prepare to be mesmerized by this trip through misty mountains and even venture across the border into the scenic valleys of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.

Main stops on this road trip: Towns and sights you'll pass along the way include Cleveland, TN, Vonore, Clark Bar Rock, Fontana Dam, NC, and Gatlinburg, TN.

How to get there: Start driving north on Interstate 75 North all the way to Sweetwater, then take Tennessee Route 68 to Madisonville. From there, travel on US Route 411 North to Vonore where you'll navigate to Clark Bar Rock via Tennessee Route 72 East and US Route 129 South.

This is a point where you can choose to venture towards the Fontana Dam in North Carolina via US-129 and North Carolina Route 28.

Once you've gotten back to Clark Bar Rock, take Foothills Parkway and US Routes 321 and 441 to Gatlinburg.

Our highlights: A unique treat on this trip is Fort Loudoun State Historic Park. This depression era recreation of a wooden, mid-18th century British fort is expertly curated and sits in a bucolic park next to the Tellico reservoir overlooking the Appalachian hills. This is both a great place to learn as well as relax and stretch your legs.

Fontana Dam, located a short drive across the border in North Carolina, is the tallest dam in the eastern US and was built to supply electricity during WWII.

Fontana Lake, created by the dam, is scenic and offers many hiking opportunities. In case you are looking for a challenge with spectacular payoff, and have a full day to stay here, find the trailhead leading to the Shuckstack Fire Tower and prepare to be awestruck by the grace of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Just as you approach Gatlinburg, keep your eyes out for a series of forest streams and waterfalls. The Sinks is a short waterfall that has an ideal swimming hole beneath it, in case the weather is warm enough for swimming, and closer to Gatlinburg you'll see signs for Laurel Falls and Cataract Falls.

One of the most beloved tourist towns in the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, is never short on things to do. There are multiple ways to see the town from up on high, like the Sky Lift, Anakeesta, and the Ober Aerial Tramway.

You will also meet people who can drink you under the table at Sugarlands Distilling Co and Old Smoky Moonshine. For nature lovers, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right behind this charming Appalachian town.

Local gems: Just as you get off the I-75 in Sweetwater, there's a great little Vineyard where you can do tastings and pick up a few bottles to enjoy in the evening. Tsali Notch Vineyard is located behind Strawberry Knob Farm in the cutest little log cabin you can imagine.

Between Fontana Dam and Clark Bar Rock there's a quirky roadside stop called the Tail of the Dragon. Though primarily a biker joint, all kinds of road trippers and automotive enthusiasts can be found here, along with tasty provisions at the general store.

Our travel tips: Since there are some opportunities for off-roading along the way, an AWD vehicle would be handy on this trip.

Best time to visit: Aside from any lodging, this is a trip where you can really take it easy and stop as you please. There aren't any attractions that get so crowded you need to book in advance.

That said, on a warm day when school is out, expect lots of families with kids and lodging in Gatlinburg gets harder to find during the peak vacation times.

Some of the mountain roads get icy in the winter months, but don't let that stop you. Gatlinburg has some of the only developed ski runs in all of Tennessee!

7. From Nashville to Pigeon Forge

4 hours 15 minutes (235 Miles)

Why you should take this trip: This is an inspirational road trip to the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and into the delightful realm of the Queen of Country, Dolly Parton.

Main stops on this road trip: You'll pass through Lebanon, Cookeville, and Knoxville on your way to Pigeon Forge. A little further along can also explore Locust Ridge.

How to get there: From Nashville, take Interstate 40 East through Lebanon, Cookeville, and Knoxville. Once you hit Kodak, exit I-40 via the Winfield Dunn Parkway to Sevierville.

From there, take the Parkway to Pigeon Forge and Dollywood. To get to Locust Ridge, take Jayell Road and a series of country roads to Evans Chapel.

Our highlights: You'll also pass by Knoxville on this trip. Be sure to check out the newly revitalized market square for a relaxing lunch or spend a few hours learning about the region's history at the East Tennessee Historical Society.

Knoxville is known as the Marble City for the many quarries in the area and you can see some of the high-quality building material in the walls of the impressive Knoxville Museum of Art.

Just before you reach Pigeon Forge, take some time to smell the roses, and some fine whiskey, in Sevierville. In addition to a massive distillery, Tennessee Legend, here you can also indulge in something softer than moonshine spirits at Hillside Winery and Apple Barn Winery.

If you're itching for subterranean adventure, head to the dazzling Forbidden Caves and finally learn the difference between stalactites and stalagmites.

Pigeon Forge is a quaint town in the hills, but it is the star power and endless opportunities for fun at Dollywood that keep visitors of all ages flocking to this eastern Tennessee town.

This country-themed park has a stunning array of rides, music, crafts, gardens, and mouth-watering baked goods. The Queen of Country takes care of her people.

Local gems: Drive the road along Locust Ridge where Dolly Parton grew up in a two-room, log-cabin style home. It doesn't get any more country than this and seeing her humble roots will give you greater insights into one of America's musical treasures and a cultural icon.

If you appreciate a good Cuban sandwich as much as we do, then do your taste buds a favor and order a roast pork sandwich at Smokies Cuban Café in Pigeon Forge.

Our travel tips: You can buy tickets for Dollywood ahead of time online to make your visit even easier. Expect to pay for parking. There are free trams that service some of the more distant parking lots.

Some of the county roads around Pigeon Forge aren't paved, so it would be better to drive a vehicle that can handle off-road conditions.

Best time to visit: Spring is one of the most festive times to visit Dollywood. In this season you can catch world-class musical acts at the Festival of Nations and you can see a rainbow of arrangements at the Dollywood Food & Flower Festival.

While you could make this trip during any time of the year, Pigeon Forge can get pretty cold in the winter, and it can even snow here.

8. Screaming Eagle Trail

6 hours (270 Miles)

Difficulty level: Ambitious

Why you should take this trip: This is another loop trip that starts in Nashville and packs in as much history, music, and food as any mere mortal can handle. Get ready for a whole ‘nother view of the Deep South.

Main stops on this road trip: You'll have a chance to see Burns, Hurricane Mills, Johnsonville, Camden, Dover, and the Cheatham Wildlife Management Area.

How to get there: Take Interstate 40 West out of Nashville and exit towards Dickson, where you'll hop on US route 70 (US-70) West. When you get to Waverly, take Tennessee Route 13 South to get to Hurricane Mills.

Navigate back to US-70 which will take you through Johnsonville, across Kentucky Lake, and eventually north towards Camden. There, change on to US Route 641 North to Paris where you'll link up with US Route 79 North.

Drive through Dover and towards Clarksville near the border with Kentucky. From there, start driving south towards Nashville along Tennessee Route 12 which will take you past Ashland and the Cheatham Wildlife Management Area.

Our highlights: Just north of Burns, along state Route 48, you will find the tiny hamlet of Charlotte. Here stands one of the oldest working courthouses in all of Tennessee. Built in 1804, the Dickson County Courthouse is the most prominent building in the quaint and historic Charlotte Square.

Prepare for an intimate and moving tour of the residence of one of country music's lady legends at Loretta Lynn's Ranch. This chart-topping singer and subject of the 1980 film “Coal Miner's Daughter” had a life with many ups and downs, many of which are chronicled, or should we say serenaded, at this rustic ranch in Hurricane Mills.

Johnsonville State Historic Park is named after former President Andrew Johnson and was the site of the Battle of Johnsonville during the Civil War. Here you can see 19th century artefacts in the visitor center's museum and hike tranquil trails along Kentucky Lake.

On the last leg of the journey, in Clarksville, you'll have another opportunity to stretch your legs in breathtaking surroundings at Dunbar Cave State Park. These limestone caves were home to prehistoric people. The wide, foreboding entrance sets any mythological imagination alight with tales of a great underworld.

Local gems: We were blown away by Customs House Museum and Cultural Center, which is also in Clarksville. The building itself is a worthwhile stop, but the eclectic collection of artefacts and factoids of local history kept us here longer than we expected to be.

On a trail with such an epic name, you better expect some over-the-top eats and country beats. You will find both at the Fillin' Station in Kingston Springs. Their juicy burgers will please every connoisseur and the local musicians were top notch.

Our travel tips: There's a lot to see on this trip, so even though it could conceivably be completed in a day, we really recommend taking a few days for this one. Plus, there are tons of converted properties that function as rustic B&Bs for a romantic stay.

Best time to visit: Go to the websites of Johnsonville State Historic Park and other historic sites to see if there's any battle recreation held annually, in case you're particularly interested in the abundant Civil War history along this route.

With many outdoor stops and opportunities for hiking, try to travel during a season that avoids the extreme heat and cold. As with many of the trips on this list, spring and fall are the most scenic times to do this road trip.

9. Pie in the Sky Trail

6 hours 15 minutes (280 Miles)

Why you should take this trip: Who can say no to a trip that begins with pie? Starting in Chattanooga, home of the Moon Pie, this trip meanders past some stellar bakeries and breathtaking parks, so you can balance stretching your jaw and stretching your legs.

Main stops on this road trip: On this trip, you'll see Signal Mountain, Dayton, Crossville, Pikeville, Beersheba Springs, and Monteagle.

How to get there: From Chattanooga, head toward Signal Point and Prentice Cooper State Forest via Tennessee Route 29.

Then Take US Route 27 North through Dayton, all the way to Spring City, where you'll change onto Tennessee Route 68. Take this to Crossville, the northernmost point on this route.

After you've explored the area, hop on US Route 127 South to Pikeville, where you'll start heading west on Tennessee Route 30 towards McMinnville. Just before you reach the city, the route bends south along Tennessee Route 56, which will take you past Beersheba Springs to Tracy City.

From there, drive to Monteagle, where you'll find Interstate 24 South, which takes you all the way back to Chattanooga via South Pittsburg.

Our highlights: As if the scenic drive along Route 27 wasn't enough of a feast for the eyes, Prentice Cooper State Forest has over 35 miles of hiking trails through pristine woodlands along the Tennessee River.

If you have the time and energy, do the 6-mile hike out to Snooper's Rock for sweeping river views and rare bird sightings.

A must-see attraction in Dayton is the Rhea County Court House Historic landmark, where the famous 1925 Scopes “monkey” trial took place. While you're in town, pick up some goodies at Master Donuts of Dayton, a back-to-the-basics bakery that simply gets your sweet-tooth.

Especially if you love to get out on back-country trails, Savage Gulf State Natural Area will prove irresistible. The trails here take you to waterfalls, cliffs, and even historic sites like the Stagecoach Road.

Many people agree that this is one of the most beautiful nature preserves in all of Tennessee and its located just outside of Beersheba Springs.

Near Tracy City you'll find the Fiery Gizzard Trail. Don't ask us how it got its name, some legends point to Davy Crockett, but this is a fantastic trail along a creek to Foster Falls and a bright blue swimming hole. If you're making this trip in the summer, be sure to include this stop.

Local gems: Another bakery that deserves an honorable mention on this trip is the Bread Basket, just past Signal Mountain. Pick up a loaf to pair with local cheese and jam at one of the many idyllic picnic stops along the way.

For a literal take on an “underground concert”, go to Cumberland Caverns. This 200-year-old venue is the largest show cave in Tennessee where you can enjoy bluegrass way down below.

Our travel tips: If you do plan on heading out to the back country, be sure to protect yourself against mosquitos which thrive in Tennessee's warm and humid climate. From March to October expect to hear that buzzing around your ear if you're not prepared.

Best time to visit: It's best to do this trip when the weather is warm, and you can enjoy swimming in the many creeks, lakes, and natural pools along the way.

Every spring, usually in April, the National Cornbread Festival takes place in South Pittsburg, just a few miles outside of Chattanooga.

If you opt for a trip on the cusp of summer and fall, try to catch the 127 Yard sale, the world's longest yard sale held every August in Pikeville.

10. Nashville to Memphis

5 hours (290 Miles)

Why you should take this trip: This trip between some of the most musical places in America will have you toes tapping the whole way.

Main stops on this road trip: You'll pass through idyllic Franklin, TN and even dip into Muscle Shoals, AL and Corinth, MS on your way to Memphis, TN.

How to get there: Take Interstate 64 South past Franklin, to Frankewing, TN then follow the US-64 bypass to Tennessee Route 11 South over the border to Alabama Route 64 and Muscle Shoals.

After spending some time in this Blues-infused town, head west on US Route 72, which eventually meets up with Tennessee Route 385 and heads into Memphis.

Our highlights: Muscle Shoals, AL can go toe to toe with Memphis in claiming to be the birthplace of the blues. Here you can tour two prominent studios where world-class artists like the Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, Cher, and Willie Nelson recorded.

The older of the two studios is called FAME Studio, established in 1959 and across town you can tour the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, which was founded in 1969.

Another famous resident of Muscle Shoals was Hellen Keller, who overcame her own hearing and visual impairments to advocate for other differently abled people. You can take guided tours of Ivy Green, her birth home.

Continue with the musical theme of this trip at Graceland, the beloved home and estate of Elvis just outside of Memphis. It is the second most visited house in America, after the White House, and contains a peaceful meditation Garden where Elvis and many of his family are buried.

In downtown Memphis, see where Elvis made his first recording at the tender age of 19 at Sun Studio. Between some fantastic soul food joints, you'll also find the Stax Museum of American Soul Music where you can learn more about this hip-shaking genre.

It would be a shame to come all the way here and not see the National Civil Rights Museum. Originally the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum transforms the pain of that event into purpose.

Local gems: See the living arts and music scene of Memphis along Beale Street; B.B. King's Blues Club would be a good start and not too far away you can see what's on stage at the Orpheum Theater.

With so many finger-licking barbeque restaurants around, it makes sense that Memphis also has a thriving micro-brew scene. You can taste all of them in one place by stopping at Hammer and Ale on Cooper Street.

Our travel tips: Given Graceland's popularity, make sure to book your tour tickets ahead of time.

Best time to visit: Memphis experiences extreme heat in the summer and is surprisingly cold in the winter; sometimes there are road closures due to freezing conditions. So the ideal times to visit are in the spring and fall. Hotel prices are generally lowest in the fall.

May is a particularly festive time to visit as the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and Beale Street Music Festival both happen during that month.

11. Ultimate Tennessee Road Trip

8 hours 30 minutes (510 Miles)

Why you should take this trip: On this grand ole road trip across the Volunteer State you'll see all the best that Tennessee has to offer and likely pack on a few pounds along the way. We think this trip deserves a week at least, though you could also cover it over a long weekend.

Main stops on this road trip: This trip includes all of Tennessee's most well-known cities like Memphis, Jackson, Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville then winds up in the Great Smoky Mountains.

How to get there: From the heart of Memphis, navigate to Interstate 40 (I-40) East which you'll take across the Hatchie National Wildlife refuge to the first stop in Jackson. After some time here, get back on I-40 and follow it all the way to Nashville.

Freshen up here or stay a few days, then take Interstate 24 South to Chattanooga. From this nadir of the route near the border with Georgia, drive north along Interstate 75 to Knoxville.

For the final leg of the journey, take Interstate 40 East to Kodak, then head south through Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, all the way to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Our highlights: Especially if you cannot get enough of classic cars and pompadours, Jackson, TN, the birthplace of rockabilly, needs to be on you road trip radar. It's also home to off-beat museums like the TV and Movie Car Museum and the Tina Turner Museum, which is housed in a one-room schoolhouse where this songstress was once a student.

Nashville deserves its title as the Country Music Capital. Here you can see the live recording of the oldest radio show in America at the Grand Ole Opry, then wander the bedecked halls of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

In the evening, your eyes will flit from one neon sign to another while competing aromas of bourbon and barbeque tempt you to stop along Broadway for another tasty meal.

On the edge of Chattanooga lies Lookout Mountain. This area on the Georgia border is home to the blushing Ruby Falls, picturesque trail to Glen Falls, and rustic Incline Railway which takes you to the top of the ridge for unparalleled views of the surrounding town and countryside.

For Civil War Historians, few places are as significant as the Chattanooga National Military Park, where a battle waged in 1863 and won by the Union Army effectively put an end to the separatist aims of the Confederacy. Especially if you want to know more about the enormous role of Tennessee in the Civil War, add this stop to your itinerary.

On the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains, about an hour's drive from Gatlinburg, take a leisurely drive along the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop.

In addition to breathtaking mountain cliffs and early 19th century settlements this valley is known for wildlife sightings. Here it's common to see white-tailed deer grazing and black bears munching on ripe berries.

Local gems: If you simply can't get enough of Tennessee's enchanting greenery, consider taking a slight detour from the route described above along the Ocoee Scenic Byway/US Route 74.

This adventurous stretch of road follows the Ocoee River Gorge from Ocoee, just a few miles southeast of Cleveland, TN, to Ducktown Tennessee. Especially on a fall trip you won't want to miss this.

While you're in Nashville, try some of Prince's Hot Chicken; no trip here is complete without it. If you prefer pork, sweet and smoky, then make a b-line for Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint right downtown.

Our travel tips: If you plan on camping at any of the state or national parks along the way, consider making a reservation ahead of time through the park's website.

Some major attractions like the Saturday show at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville or a tour of Graceland outside of Memphis are best booked ahead of time.

Best time to visit: Once again, for the abundant foliage, late spring to the height of fall would be the best time to do this trip, avoiding major school holidays.

While the Great Smoky Mountains take on a whole new charm when blanketed with snow in the winter, the roads can be a bit difficult to navigate and some, like the Cades Cove Loop, are even subject to occasional closures.

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Ultimate Tennessee Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

Welcome to our ultimate Tennessee road trip planner!

We created this planner to help you plan the perfect road trip around Tennessee and it contains all the essential information you need to plan your trip today including budget and costs, car rentals, what to eat, where to stay, etc.

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of Tennessee itineraries as well as get more information on Tennessee road trip must-see attractions including Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, Gatlinburg, and the Great Smoky Mountains.

Our mission? To make sure you have a blast in Tennessee!

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full  Disclosure  here. Thank you!

Why visit Tennessee?

Tennessee is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience all that America has to offer.

From the Music City of Nashville, to Memphis with its rich history and culture, or Chattanooga with its vibrant arts scene – there’s something for everyone in Tennessee.

Tennessee is a state with music in its soul. Listen to country music, jazz blues, gospel, and folk music. Visit iconic sites such as the Grand Ole Opry and Elvis’s Graceland Mansion.

Tennessee is also blessed with abundant natural beauty. Explore the beautiful state and hike through the famous Smoky Mountains. See the splendid fall colors from Lookout Mountain.

Explore historic sites like Chattanooga National Military Park or Belle Meade Plantation or take a tour of the many museums.

Foodies can enjoy a variety of delicious Southern dishes from barbeque to biscuits and off course, the famous Nashville hot chicken.

Sip wine on a tour of the wineries along the way. Try some of the famous Jack Daniels whisky or Tennessee’s famous moonshine.

Tennessee road trip is one of the most underrated road trips in America and we definitely recommend it for everyone.

Best of Tennessee Road Trip Itinerary

Use our Tennessee road trip itinerary to explore a variety of natural, cultural, and historic attractions in the state.

Begin your Tennessee road trip in Memphis and then drive east towards Nashville and Smoky Mountains.

Finally, explore Chattanooga and the many attractions near Lookout Mountain.

Spend a minimum of 7 to 10 days to see all the highlights.

If you can spend only 4 or 5 days in Tennessee, then explore either the east or west or south or central Tennessee.

Western Tennessee is primarily Memphis and its surroundings.

The Memphis Area – 3 Days

Memphis is Tennessee’s largest city with a rich cultural heritage.

Memphis is known as the Blues Capital of the World and is especially famous for its live music venues and museums.

Beale Street

The Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum on Beale Street pays homage to the pioneers of soul and rock genres.

Visitors can listen to music clips, see costumes worn by stars, and explore other interesting artifacts about the city’s music scene.

Follow it up with a walk on Beale Street and listen to live music, buy souvenirs, and enjoy the nightlife.

Culinary Scene

The city is also famous for the Memphis style barbecue.

Eat the ribs and pulled pork at iconic spots like Rendezvous BBQ, Corky’s BBQ, and Central BBQ on your Tennessee trip. Search for your favorite by visiting them all!

Head to the trendy neighborhood of Overton Square for fine dining, amazing murals, and nightlife.

Elvis Presley and Graceland

Memphis is also home to Graceland, which was the former home of Elvis Presley.

On a tour of the historic mansion, you can see an extensive collection of costumes he wore on stage, his airplanes, as well as his famous Cadillac which was featured in many of his movies.

National Civil Rights Museum

Undoubtedly, no road trip to Memphis can be complete without visiting the National Civil Rights Museum at Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968.

Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated here in 1968 and the site has been converted into a museum that commemorates MLK’s life and legacy.

At the National Civil Rights Museum, you can learn about MLK’s history, come face-to-face with powerful artifacts from the movement, and explore exhibits on segregation.

Other Memphis Attractions

Families should visit the Memphis Zoo located in Midtown Memphis.

Take a photo of the charming Memphis bridge spanning the Mississippi River at night and also visit the beautiful Mud Island State Park.

Here you will find the famous Memphis sign which is a popular Instagram spot in the city.

After Memphis, continue your road trip in central Tennessee at Nashville.

Nashville – 3 Days

Nashville is the capital of Tennessee and has a rich history.

Spend a couple of family fun days in the city exploring the range of attractions.

Also Read: 3 Days in Nashville Itinerary

The Music City is the best place to visit in America for those who love country music.

It is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, the Bluebird Café, Johnny Cash Museum, and talented country stars.

Explore the famous honky tonk bars on Music Row located on Lower Broadway and 2nd Avenue.

You can explore all of Nashville’s musical attractions on foot or by bike by following the Music Trail.

Other Nashville Attractions

Besides the music venues, Nashville is packed with many other attractions that will make your trip unforgettable.

You can go hiking or biking, shop for boots and hats, kayak down the river, or just enjoy some of Nashville’s famous hot chicken at Hattie B’s or Prince’s.

Admire the Tennessee state capitol, take a history lesson at the Tennessee State Museum, and visit the Parthenon is Centennial Park.

Be sure to check the plenty of shops, bakeries, breweries and distilleries in town while you are there. Search for murals and street art.

After Nashville, you can drive towards Knoxville and the Smokies or visit some nearby attractions if you have the time.

South of Nashville, you will find Lynchburg and Franklin.

Also Read: R omantic and Fun Things to do in Nashville for couples

Optional: Jack Daniels Distillery, Lynchburg

A visit to Lynchburg is a must for any Jack Daniels enthusiast planning a road trip in Tennessee.

Located in the heart of the state, this historic distillery is home to the original recipe.

The distillery offers an interesting tour that educates visitors about how whiskey is made from start to finish.

The tour begins at their history center and moves on to warehouses, aging rooms, bottle lines, and barrels.

After your tour, sample some whiskey from the barrels at the George Green Barrel House and stop by the gift shop for souvenirs.

Optional: Lynchburg

Besides the distillery, there are several other things to do in Lynchburg.

Explore the Moore County Courthouse, Old Jail Museum, and other buildings in the Lynchburg Historic District.

Try the BBQ at Barrel House or Caboose Cafe.

Go hiking at Tims Ford State Park and swim in the Tims Ford Lake.

Lynchburg is located 75 miles south of Nashville and can be reached in 1.5 hours.

Optional: Franklin

Charming Franklin makes a perfect stop on the Tennessee road trip.

It is located just half an hour away from Nashville and can be seen in just half a day.

Franklin was the site for the Battle of Franklin, an important battle in the American Civil War.

The town is a haven for those who love to visit beautiful and historic attractions.

Tour the red brick Carnton House Museum and visit the Carter House State Historic Site, key sites in the Civil War.

Downtown Franklin is famous for its Historic Main Street and is great to take a stroll through charming architecture, eclectic shops, and eateries.

Optional: Natchez Trace Parkway

South of Nashville, you can explore a scenic section of the Natchez Trace Parkway.

The 444 miles long Natchez Trace Parkway runs through Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.

It begins near Franklin and this stretch of road is charming with rolling hills, lots of trees, and wildlife.

You will find attractions such as beautiful bridges, scenic Timberland Park, and gorgeous fall foliage.

After exploring the Nashville area, drive east on I-40 towards Knoxville for the eastern Tennessee road trip.

On the way, you can stop at Lebanon and take a detour towards Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

Optional: Lebanon

Lebanon, located 25 miles east of Nashville, offers plenty of activities.

Enjoy the hiking trails at Cedars of Lebanon State Park and see Fiddlers Grive Historic Village.

Explore the Lebanon History Museum on a self guided tour and see the artifacts about the town’s past.

Optional: Burgess Falls State Park

Just 50 miles from Lebanon, you will find one of the most beautiful state parks in Tennessee.

Burgess Falls State Park is home to Burgess Falls, a waterfall on the Falling Water River.

The cascading waterfall drops 250 feet into a lush, mossy canyon and can be easily seen from the observation deck.

The park is very popular with hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.

We definitely recommend stopping here on your Tennessee road trip.

Optional: Fall Creek Falls State Park

Further south from Burgess Falls, you will find Fall Creek Falls State Park.

This park is home to beautiful waterfalls, several hiking trails, camp sites, and cabins.

Optional: Big South Fork National River Recreation Area

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a scenic area on the Tennessee Kentucky border.

This outdoor paradise features whitewater rapids, hiking trails, swimming holes, limestone bridges, and much more.

The park offers various outdoor activities for people of all ages.

There are campgrounds and rustic cabins to stay in while visiting the park.

Next, visit eastern Tennessee’s famous Smoky mountain region.

The major towns here are Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge.

They make excellent bases to explore the national park during your Tennessee road trip.

Knoxville – 2 Days

Knoxville is a charming small city that has plenty of things to do for everyone from history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts.

Tour the 19th century buildings in the Historic Market Square district or visit the Knoxville Museum of Art.

Take a scenic drive through the many Riverfront Parks where you can enjoy views of the Tennessee River and enjoy walking trails by its banks.

You may also want to visit the World’s Fair Park which is home to the iconic Sunsphere tower and observation deck.

The tower was built for the World’s Fair of 1982 and has panoramic views of the area.

There’s always something cool going on in Knoxville including farmers markets, live music events, and festivals.

Optional – Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is a great place to visit for old-fashioned fun and excitement on your Tennessee road trip.

In Pigeon Forge, you will find plenty of amusement parks, attractions, and shows including Dollywood, Titanic Museum, and Dixie Stampede show.

Gatlinburg – 1 Day

Gatlinburg, a charming town in the Smokies, serves as the gateway to the national park.

In addition to the national park, Gatlinburg has plenty of attractions and activities for all ages. 

The downtown area has plenty of shops, galleries, breweries, distilleries, museums, and restaurants.

Ober Gatlinburg is a mountain-top amusement park with a ski area and gondola rides.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park – 3 Days

Finally, time for the highlight of your Tennessee road trip!

The Great Smoky Mountains National park is our favorite national park to visit in the fall.

The park is home to black bears, elk, wild turkeys, and whitetail deer. Visitors can enjoy nature in the area by camping, picnicking, hiking, and scenic drives.

Following are some of our favorite areas to explore within the Great Smoky Mountains.

Read our 3 Days in Smoky Mountains itinerary here .

Drive the scenic 11 miles long Cades Cove Loop Road to see historic buildings and log cabins built by early settlers as well as a working Grist Mill.

Cades Cove is one of the most popular places to visit and famous for its fall colors.

Clingman’s Dome

Clingman’s Dome is the highest mountain top in the Smoky Mountains.

A short but strenuous trail will take you to an observation tower on its summit. From here, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the gorgeous landscape!

Other attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains national park include Fontana Lake, Abrams Falls Trail, Gregory Bald trail, and Roaring Fork Motor Trail.

After exploring the Smokies, head south towards Chattanooga and southern Tennessee.

Along the way, you can road trip a section of the scenic Cherohala Skyway.

Optional: Cherohala Skyway

The Cherohala Skyway is a scenic byway that connects Tellico Plains in Tennessee with North Carolina.

The winding road passes through the Cherokee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest and is just spectacular.

Be sure to explore the charming mountain town of Tellico Plains while you are there.

Take a stroll around town and explore the Charles Hall Museum.

Hike to waterfalls such as Bald River falls and Baby Falls.

Chattanooga – 2 Days

Chattanooga is a beautiful historic city with a quaint downtown, beautiful bridges, and trendy restaurants.

The Tennessee Aquarium is a fun attraction in Chattanooga where visitors can see dolphin, turtles, and fish.

The city has plenty of outdoor activities for everyone including biking, hiking, kayaking, sailing, and fishing.

Optional: Tennessee River Gorge

The River Gorge is a spectacular sight to see while in Chattanooga.

The gorge with its steep rock cliffs and bluffs was carved in the Cumberland plateau by the Tennessee river.

Visitors can hike across the many trails in the gorge or just sit back and enjoy the scenery from overlooks such as Signal Point.

Visitors can also enjoy many outdoor activities in the area like kayaking or hiking to scenic waterfalls and having a picnic lunch overlooking the gorge.

Lookout Mountain – 1 Day

This beautiful mountain town is located near Chattanooga and makes a great day trip from the city.

It has many fun attractions including Rock City Garden, Ruby Falls, ziplines, as well as historic sites.

Ruby Falls is one of Chattanooga’s top attractions.

At Ruby Falls, visitors can descend into an underground cave to see the spectacular 145 feet tall waterfall.

Seeing the sparkling waterfall drop down into the cavern is an amazing experience and hence, definitely worth adding to your Tennessee road trip.

Rock City Garden

Rock City Garden is located at the top of Rock City Mountain.

This garden is filled with beautiful wildflowers, cacti, as well as large shady trees that will make you feel like you’re walking through a magical forest.

At the end of the trail, you can see the famous view of the Seven States.

Incline Railway

While you can drive the car up the mountain, consider the alternative Incline Railway for an amazing fun adventure.

The Incline Railway is a funicular railway that will take you up the side of Lookout Mountain to an observation deck with spectacular views.

This one-hour round trip journey is well worth it!

Best Time to Visit Tennessee

The best time to plan a Tennessee road trip is in the spring or fall.

Tennessee winters are cold while the summers can get very hot with temperatures often topping out at over 100 degrees!

In spring, you will find colorful wildflowers including azaleas and dogwoods blooming all over the state.

Fall is especially gorgeous with colorful foliage and beautiful weather.

The whole state looks stunning in the fall, undoubtedly, the Smoky Mountains are a highlight of the fall trip!

Also Read: Smoky Mountains Fall Trip: When to go + What to do

We hope you liked our ultimate Tennessee road trip itinerary.

Did we miss out any details or must visit spots? Let us know in the comments.

More Tennessee Destination Guides

We have several other destination guides about the best places to visit in Tennessee such as Nashville, Memphis, Smokies, as well as Gatlinburg.

Check out our related blog posts to plan your Tennessee road trip itinerary.

Best waterfall hikes in the Smokies

Tail of the Dragon Scenic Drive, Tennessee

Atlanta to Smoky Mountains road trip

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Plan your next vacation by going on some of our favorite road trips in the country.

Find road trip planners as well as recommendations for what to see and do, where to stay, etc.

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7 Great Stops For Road Trips in Tennessee (with 50 Places To Visit in Tennessee)

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Planning a road trip in Tennessee (or a road trip to Tennessee as part of a longer road trip in the Southern USA )? Tennessee road trips will take you from one iconic American location to another whether it’s the Great Smoky Mountains, country music hub Nashville or Elvis Presley’s Graceland. Together with several travel experts, we have put together places to road trip Tennessee whether you do it in one big trip or several smaller trips using these locations as hubs for seeing the attractions nearby. There are plenty of places to visit in Tennessee so happy planning!

Why Road Trip Tennessee?

Tennessee is long and narrowish with 8 other states on its boundary! Although Tennessee is only 112 miles wide, it stretches 432 miles from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River.

With a border touching on the state of Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas and Missouri, a road trip to Tennessee is easy to organise. There are so many opportunities for a weekend getaway to Tennessee from these neighbouring states. Moreover there are plenty of attractions packed into these borders for all types of travellers such as history enthusiasts, foodies, whiskey drinkers  and music lovers.

There are so many things to do in Tennessee road trips and so many places to visit in Tennessee, you will be spoiled for choice whatever your travel style. For example, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the USA, is heaven for outdoor lovers and Nashville is the center of the country music universe.

A Tennessee road trip can take you from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River.

For a small state, Tennessee has had an outsize influence on the exporting of American culture worldwide. Tennessee is the home of national treasure, Dolly Parton, and her theme park, Dollywood. And, that other national treasure who changed American music forever, Elvis and his theme park, Graceland. And, its Tennessee innovation that created Tennessee Whiskey!

And, there’s lots of quirky cool stuff too! Just in case you though replicas of Old World structures in Tennessee was limited to the steel Memphis Pyramid, there’s also a concrete Parthenon in Nashville. Did I mention the recreation of the Titanic in Pigeon Forge ?

The Best Stops on A Road Trip in Tennessee

We have done several Tennessee road trips, such as the visit from nearby Alabama to check out the Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee.

So we called in some travel experts to tell us what stops we should be making on our Tennessee road trip!

Visiting Chattanooga Tennessee

Located in southeastern Tennessee in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga is a true hidden gem and an outdoor-lovers paradise. Oftentimes overshadowed by Great Smoky Mountains National Park or Nashville, Chattanooga is a must-stop on your next Southern United States Road trip itinerary. Start off your visit by touring the Jack Daniels Distillery (1.5 hours away) and tasting some true Tennessee Whiskey. After your tour, head to downtown Chattanooga to walk over one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges, Walnut Street Bridge , and grab a bite to eat at one of the many festive outdoor patios within walking distance. If feeling adventurous, be sure to explore the nearby state parks ( Fall Creek Falls and South Cumberland State Park ) to marvel at the amazing waterfalls and hike the well-maintained trails. On your way back to town, be sure to stop at Lookout Winery for wine tasting with a view! Finally, end your Chattanooga visit with a trip to Rock City Gardens . Rock City is a magical walking path built upon (and through) rocks. With many photo ops, a swinging bridge, great views, and a restaurant on top, you could spend all day exploring. Although you will have many options as to where to stay, I recommend staying at Treetops Hideaway . A unique accommodation in the trees, but still close to all the action. As you can see, the beauty and adventures of Chattanooga will leave you feeling refreshed, connected, and wanting to extend your Southern road trip!

– by Jordan Wohlwend

The Fall Creek Falls overlook is located in a nearby state park (Image credit: Jordan Wohlwend)

Trips to Gatlinburg Tennessee

Gatlinburg is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations among tourists in Tennessee. Known at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , Gatlinburg is home to a host of exciting attractions and is a perfect stop on a southern road trip. Gatlinburg is a destination with something for everyone. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions, from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies to the Gatlinburg Sky Bridge , the longest pedestrian bridge in North America. Those traveling without kids will enjoy tastings at the famous moonshine distilleries – Ole Smoky Moonshine and Sugarlands are two of the best. You can also spend a day outlet shopping or visiting the fun museums and dinner shows in neighboring Pigeon Forge or get in touch with nature while hiking in the national park. For those seeking a bit of adventure, Anakeesta is an outdoor adventure park with zip lining, a treetop skywalk, a mountain coaster, and more. You can’t visit Gatlinburg without taste testing the delicious southern cuisine. Getting breakfast at one of the town’s pancake houses is a Gatlinburg tradition. For delicious southern staples like fried chicken and country ham, there’s no better place than The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge . There are many great places to stay in and around Gatlinburg, but the best way to experience the town is by staying in one of the cabins in the surrounding mountains. There are tons of different options – you can find and book a cabin on sites like Airbnb or VRBO. If you’d prefer something that’s within walking distance of Gatlinburg’s downtown attractions, Baskins Creek Condominiums has spacious condos as well as free parking.

– by Sydney Richardson in A World in Reach

Rustic charm in a cabin in Gatlinburg Tennessee (Image credit: Sydney Richardson)

Things To Do Knoxville, Tennessee

Located near the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville, is one of the cool places to visit in Tennessee, thanks to the young college crowd from the University of Tennessee craft beer and coffee.

How can you not love a city that hosts an annual dog parade called Mardi Growl ? Maybe lacking the history and tradition of Mardi Gras in New Orleans , but totally on point for cuteness.

Things to do in Knoxville include checking out its great food scene especially for all sorts of southern dishes like barbecue at Sweet P’s BBQ in downtown Knoxville. The variety is huge from fine dining to cheap cafes. Make sure to check out Stock & Barrel for delicious farm-to-table fare and Wild Love Bakehouse , deemed one of the best bakeries in the USA!

Knoxville is also home to a whole lot of craft breweries making for a lively bar scene. Knoxville is sport crazy so that also drives a lot of entertainment!

Other great things to do in Knoxville include walking in the charming downtown area such as Market Square or walking in World’s Fair Park . Head to the top of The Sunsphere to get a bird’s eye view of Knoxville. Market Square Farmer’s Market is one of the many farmers markets in Knoxville.

Near Knoxville Tennessee you have other road trip Tennessee stops like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Take your road trip in Tennessee out of state to North Carolina. Knoxville is a mere two hour drive from Asheville with its many attractions including The Biltmore Estate, built by a Vanderbilt who skipped the family memo to build a mansion in Newport Rhode Island .

One of the must do things in Knoxville when you road trip Tennessee is heading to the top of the disco ball building to get a panorama of the city.

Sightseeing Memphis, Tennessee 

Memphis, Tennessee is one of the jewels of the American South. Located along the Mississippi River, it has a long history as an important river port. Today, many of the riverfront warehouses are empty, but the city retains much of its charm. Memphis is best known for two things: music and food. This combination has attracted tourists to the city in flocks, and led to redevelopment of the downtown area with the influx of tourism dollars. You will want to stay downtown, as most of what you’ll want to see will then be within a fairly easy walk of your hotel. If able, stay at the historic Peabody Hotel and watch the morning march of the ducks into its lobby fountain. Just arrive early as seating is hard to come by. Most tourists will visit Beale Street and its countless clubs with live music. Beale Street is crowded and loud, and most of the clubs have cover charges, but just walking along the street at night will expose you to the Memphis Blues! For the best in the Memphis music scene, visit Sun Studio , the famous recording studio that launched countless careers including the city’s most famous former resident: Elvis Presley. The tour of the studio lasts about an hour, and will be one of your Memphis highlights! There is even a free shuttle for tour-takers from Sun Studio to Elvis’ Graceland mansion , a wonderful (but very expensive) look into the life of The King. If all of this music makes you hungry, stop by Rendezvous for the original Memphis BBQ. The restaurant is largely unchanged over the past several decades, and that’s a good thing. Your waiter will know more about the city than the average person in the tourism office. For more, check out my interview with John Vergos, the owner of Rendezvous . Finally, one can’t leave Memphis without spending a few hours at the National Civil Rights Museum . Built into the facade of the Lorraine Motel – where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr was assassinated on April 4, 1968 – the museum is a living tribute to the American civil rights struggle, a struggle that continues today. By midday the line for the museum can be long, so plan accordingly. No matter what you choose to do, Memphis is an incredible city, definitely worth a visit. – by Jonathan at The Royal Tour Blog

Elvis Statue in Memphis, Tennessee (Photo credit: Jonathan of The Royal Tour)

Things To Do in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is one of THE places to visit in Tennessee for any music lover, after all its nickname is Music City. Some of the music things to do in Nashville Tennessee include the Country Music Hall of Fame and the world-famous Music Row district , with its stores and music. On the Honky Tonk Highway , lots of venues provide live music all day. You can even bring kids during the day until the evening when the over 21 years of age rule kicks in.

There are so many things to do in Nashville Tennessee even if you are not a country music lover. Nashville has beautiful botanical gardens at the Cheekwood Estate . Visit trendy 12 South District , a small area packed with shopping and dining, including the Draper James store owned by actress Reese Witherspoon.

Just like Huntsville in Alabama , there’s lots of murals to fulfil any Instagram feed needs. And, really you can’t miss The Parthenon , a full-scale replica from 1897 of the original Parthenon in Greece  – well at least, the bits of the Parthenon not currently hosted in the British Museum in London .

While you are in Nashville Tennessee make sure you have some famous Nashville Hot Chicken – spice fried chicken served with bread and pickles. First made famous by Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack in North Nashville, hot chicken is now ubiquitous in the city.

Things to do in Nashville Tennessee include visiting The Parthenon replica

Disha Smith from Disha Discovers writes:

One of the most iconic stops on any Southern road trip in the United States is Nashville, Tennessee . Known as “Music City,” Nashville is brimming with fun things to do for every traveler. Even if you’re not a fan of country music, there are still plenty of adventures to be had in this lively city.

There are several reasons to add Nashville to your Southern road trip itinerary.

Last but not least, the scenery around Nashville is beautiful. You’ll be surrounded by rolling hills and a stunning downtown skyline.

If you’re interested in the country music scene, be sure to check out Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, Johnny Cash Museum, and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Spend the evening dancing away at one of the many honky-tonks that line the infamous street of Broadway.

Also, spend the day doing a self-guided mural tour . There are several colorful murals scattered around the city that are Instagram-worthy. After that, do a little brewery hopping. The craft beer scene in Nashville is amazing.

Lastly, Nashville is home to several great hotels in equally great locations. One of the best places to stay is SpringHill Suites by Marriott in the Downtown area. It’s within walking distance to tons of restaurants and bars.

A visit to Music City is the highlight of many a Tennessee road trip (image credit: by Disha Smith)

Discover Rocky Fork State Park Tennessee

Rocky Fork Sta te Park is a hidden gem of a state park in eastern Tennessee not too far from the North Carolina border. It’s the perfect day trip from Asheville any time of year. If you want to swim though, summer is best. It’s an amazing park to enjoy fall colors and do some hiking. And even though it may be cold in winter, it’s not very busy so you’ll likely have some trails to yourself (even in fall, believe it or not!) It’s a popular park for fishing, but there are about 20 miles of hiking trails in the park, too. The further in you go, the fewer people you’ll see. The Flint Creek Trail is about two miles and takes you to a site marking the battle between the Cherokee and John Sevier. This is my favorite trail in the park. You could easily spend all day here but if you’re limited on time, half a day should be plenty. There is no entrance fee for the park. If you want to go and like biking, there are biking trails here, too. AND if you like Geocaching you’ll be able to find some of them in and around the park as well. It’s a great little state park tucked away in the Tennessee mountains. – by Megan Johnson at Red Around The World

Rocky Fork State Park on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina (Image credit: Megan Johnson)

Explore The Great Smoky Mountains

The legendary Smoky Mountains, on the Tennessee-North Carolina border, are a must-see on any southern road trip.  The rolling hills, and blue hues that give them their nickname, provide unparalleled beauty to enjoy. If you base yourself in Gatlinburg , this offers you great proximity to the best  scenic drives in the Smokies .  There are a good range of hotels in Gatlinburg center, such as the Bearskin Lodge on the River ; or you could choose a cabin in the hills for a true Smoky Mountain experience. While in the Smokies, make sure you visit Clingmans Dome , the observation tower offers amazing views out over Newfound Gap – get there early to avoid the crowds. Don’t miss a picnic at Cades Cove , where you can see historic mountain cabins and see how the pioneers of the area lived. If there is one route you shouldn’t miss, the 33-mile-long Foothills Parkway from Wear Valley to Lake Chilhowee provides superb vistas to enjoy from the overlooks. There are plenty of hikes for all fitness levels. The short and easy Laurel Falls Trail is only 3.9kms and perfect for beginners and families. If you enjoy chasing waterfalls, there are some moderate hikes to Grotto and Abrams Falls that will occupy you for 2-3 hours. Or visit The Sinks along the Little River Road for a no-hike falls view. If nature isn’t your thing, why not visit the Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery in Gatlinburg or the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge.

– by Hannah Henderson of Hannah Henderson Travel

Visit the Smoky Mountains sites such as The Sinks on your Southern States road trip (image credit: Hannah Henderson)

Tennessee Road Trip Stops Mapped

Here’s our suggestion of Tennessee road trip stops mapped out. Our Tennessee road map with cities and attractions shows you have close (or far) things are to each other so that you can better plan your road trip in Tennessee. Plan your road trip in Tennessee with this big picture view of a Tennessee map with cities SPREAD THE WORD! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!  Planning a Tennessee vacation? We’ve put together 50 Tennessee travel paces to visit to create epic Tennesee vacation road trips. Tennessee travel road trips are a great way to see all that the state offers including Nashville TN, Knoxville TN and the Smoky Mountains. Plan a family vacation with a Smoky Mountains vacation, one of the best active travel destinations in the USA. Check out our list of places to visit in Tennessee road trips for the best Tennesee trip ideas and Tennessee road trip. We did not receive compensation of any form, monetary or otherwise, from any of the products, services, hotelsetc mentioned in this article. This site generates income via partnerships with carefully-curated travel and lifestyle brands and/or purchases made through links to them at no extra cost to you. More information may be found on our Disclosure Policy .

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Set Out on These 10 Backpacking Trails in Tennessee

Follow these backpacking trails to see mountain vistas, rock formations, wildlife and more.

Tennessee’s natural playground is truly something unique, beloved by many who come to experience outdoor activities within these borders.  Reconnect with nature in Tennessee along these backpacking trails that lead to incredible views.

Cove Lake State Park – Caryville 

Take in the view that inspired the popular Tennessee State Park patch by setting off on the Goose Island Trail in Cove Lake State Park . The half-mile, easy section leads to a fishing pier with views of the Cumberland Mountains and also is dotted with the park’s Story Book Trail. Kids can see excerpts from “Little Owl’s Moon” along the trail. You can continue the paved trail system for another 2.5 miles if you’d like a few more miles to stretch your legs. 

Snoopers Rock – Chattanooga

This 5.9-mile trail near Chattanooga is considered a moderate route and is popular for hiking and birding. Visit from March to October for seasonal views at the stunning overlook. Inside Prentice Cooper State Forest , Snoopers Rock Trail follows the Cumberland Trail and has natural features like a cave, numerous rock formations and small water crossings. The view at the end of your hike is worth it. Spend a few moments soaking in the view and spotting wildlife. 

Buzzard Roost – Cherokee National Forest

This challenging route offers beautiful vistas once you reach the overlook. Head out on the 3-mile trail located within the Cherokee National Forest . The trail head can be difficult to spot. Once you arrive, it is located on the opposite side of the street from a pull over area. It is 50-100 ft. to the right of the parking area if your back is to the river. The trail is regarded as difficult by hikers and can take an average of a little more than 2 hours to complete. You can camp as well and may not encounter other people, perfect for a chance to reconnect with nature.

Cummins Falls State Park – Cookeville 

Grab your water shoes and your Gorge Access permit for a day at the base of Cummins Falls in Cummins Falls State Park . The adventurous trail is rugged and USCG approved life jackets are advised if you plan to swim the falls’ waters. It is also recommended to only bring snacks and water to the gorge, then eat a picnic in the designated picnic area. Once you get to the gorge, the thundering Cummins Falls is awe-inspiring and is a favorite for hikers and photographers alike. Trails such as the Delia Bell Meadow Trail, a 3-mile moderate hiking trail, does not require a permit to visit. Follow this trail for an overlook of the Blackburn Fork River.

Alum Cave Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Gatlinburg

The Alum Cave Trail is a popular trail in America’s most visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The 4.4-mile moderately difficult trail includes beautiful mountain views and geological formations as you make your way to Alum Cave. On the way, stop for an Instagrammable location at Arch Rock, the first formation along the trail. Walk across log bridges, through hardwood forests, beautiful displays of mountain laurel and rhododendron and Inspiration Point which provides a great view of the rugged valley outstretched before you. Once you reach the Alum Cave Bluffs, you can continue on to Mount Le Conte for even more mountain views.

Buffalo Mountain – Johnson City

How many cities own a mountain? Well, Johnson City is one. Buffalo Mountain Park is a 725-acre natural resource area and functions as a nature preserve primarily for hiking, picnicking, and nature programs. The park offers several hikes for varying skill levels, but White Rock offers the most stunning, panoramic views. Gain 3,217ft. in elevation on the 4-mile White Rock Loop. You'll hit two overlooks on this trail: Huckleberry Knob and Sunset Point. You can add an extra mile of hiking and include Tip Top overlook as well. The most unique part of Buffalo Mountain is its location. Its incredible hiking trails are just 10 minutes away from the heart of downtown Johnson City. After your hike, head downtown to find six craft breweries, dozens of local restaurants, boutiques, coffee shops, murals and parks.

Urban Wilderness - Knoxville

Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness has a collection of 50 miles of natural surface trails that lead you to a variety of terrains, views and other adventures like rock climbing and mountain biking. Choose your own adventure along trails such as the ones found at Ijams Nature Center & Quarries for stunning rock formations, sunflower fields, wildflowers and views of the Tennessee and French Broad rivers at Forks of the River Wildlife Management & Hunting Area or William Hastie Natural Area which has 6.5 miles of natural surface trails through heavily forested areas and wildflowers. 

Twin Arches in Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area - Oneida

There are two ways to explore the Twin Arches , considered the largest natural bridge in the states of Tennessee and Kentucky, in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area . The Twin Arches Upper Loop is considered easy to moderate and is about 1.2 miles round trip. The short loop goes to the Twin Arches, a beloved Instagrammable spot. Or, you could access the Twin Arches through the Twin Arches Lower Loop, classified as difficult, which takes you by a series of rock houses, Charit Creek Lodge, Jake’s Place and cliffs before ending up at Twin Arches. With either loop you choose, pack a picnic (and pack out your trash and other belongings) and enjoy the solace nature brings. Big South Fork has a number of trails to explore and backcountry camping sites (permits are required) if you want to spend a night under the stars.

Big Hill Pond State Park – Pocahontas

At Big Hill Pond State Park , you can take in the views of West Tennessee by hiking the Turkey Call Trail. The 3.5-mile loop hike leads to the park’s 70-foot observation tower as well as the half-mile elevated boardwalk in the swamp. Try to spot various birds and other wildlife while on your hike. The trail is rated medium to difficult.

Natchez Trace State Park – Wildersville

See natural transitions from ridgetop forests to bottomland forests on the Brown’s Creek Lake section of the Red Leaves Trail in Natchez Trace State Park . The 1.5-2.5-hour moderate to difficult hike will take you into the bottomland of Brown’s Creek Lake. Once you reach the lakeshore, you’ll have great views of the lake and may be able to spot bald eagles and ospreys. The full Red Leaves Trail system is 40 miles of natural surface. A permit is required for backcountry camping . There are four campsites and up to 35 people may camp at any one site.

Backpacking Gear, Guided Trips and Tips 

Tennessee has a number of outfitters ready to equip and guide you for the best outdoor experience.

Smoky Mountain Guides

From guided day hikes to overnight backpacking trips, adventure photography and more, Smoky Mountain Guides will take you through beautiful Great Smoky Mountain wilderness. For those Instagrammable photos, choose the Adventure Photography excursion where your guide will take you to some of the best places for outdoor photography Great Smoky Mountains National Park has to offer. Spend 3 or 4 days on the longest continuous section of the Appalachian Trail where you'll go to the highest point of the trail and explore the peaks and valleys of this unique trail. Smoky Mountain Guides also provides women-only hikes including day hikes to Charlie's Bunion, mother & daughter adventures and a multi-sport adventure track.

Outdoor Knoxville

Depending on the type of adventure you want, Outdoor Knoxville can point you to the hiking trail best suites for you. Most of the parks around the city are great for paved or natural surface hiking. If you want a more challenging hike, the Outdoor Knoxville experts can suggest a variety of options . They even host group hikes throughout the year including guided wildflower hikes, night hikes, excursions with naturalists and more. 

Outdoor Chattanooga

If you're wanting to explore the rugged wilderness around Chattanooga , let the outfitters at Outdoor Chattanooga guide you in the best direction. Guided tours, programs and access to no to low-cost equipment for a variety of activities are offered. The outdoor guides can lead you through the more than 100 miles of trails in and around the city. Take part in the Chattanooga Classic Hikes Series to get acquainted with just some of the trails that lead to overlooks, rock formations and more. All hikes are free but do require reservations . When you participate in one of the hikes, you can expect to learn backpacking essentials, how to read and follow trail maps and blazes, in-depth information about the area you're hiking in and hiking and backpacking skills.

Cumberland Mountain Outdoor Sports - Cookeville

Step into Cumberland Mountain Outdoor Sports in downtown Cookeville for all your outdoor needs. They carry top outfitter brands and are knowledgeable about the Cumberland Plateau and Great Smoky Mountains (just a short drive away). You can find the National Geographic's double-sided waterproof map of the local parks and hiking destinations in the area and other outdoor experiences in Middle Tennessee, as well as guides on the Appalachian Trail.

Abundant Life Adventure Club – Nashville 

Take the stress out of planning and join a hiking adventure with Abundant Life Adventure Club , tailored for Black professionals and entrepreneurs to connect in nature. Each month, an outdoor event is coordinated so you can experience the community, adventures and refreshing atmosphere of traveling with a positive, uplifting group. Join the club for exclusive, soul refreshing nature experience in and around Nashville held every Saturday morning.

As always, let’s keep Tennessee beautiful by practicing the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace so future generations can be just as inspired by the wonder and awe found in the state: 

• Plan Ahead & Prepare.
• Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces.
• Dispose of Waste Properly.
• Leave What You Find.
• Minimize Campfire Impacts.
• Respect Wildlife.
• Be Considerate of Others.

Additional resources:

-  3 backcountry campsites within 100 miles of Nashville

-  Great Smoky Mountains backpacking packing list

For more outdoor safety tips, check out #AdventureSmartTN . And, discover even more photo-worthy hiking trails in Tennessee. 

Places in this article

Cove Lake State Park

Cove Lake's 717 acres are situated in a beautiful mountain valley on the eastern edge of the Cumberland Plateau. Scenic nature trails lead through a diversity of wetlands and woodlands offering wildlife viewing for the nature enthusiast. A paved walking/b

Cherokee National Forest

In the Southern Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee, Cherokee National Forest is ideal for outdoor recreation. Wander a scenic drive through the mountains. Enjoy watching wildlife. Catch the thrill of whitewater.

Cummins Falls State Park

Located on the beautiful Blackburn Fork State Scenic River, this 306-acre day-use park in Jackson County is home to Tennessee's eighth largest waterfall at 75 feet high. Cummins Falls is formed on the Eastern Highland Rim and has been a favorite scenic sp

Alum Trail to Mt. LeConte

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Buffalo Mountain Park

Knoxville Urban Wilderness

An exceptional recreation and historic corridor in the heart of the city.

Ijams Nature Center

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Big Hill Pond State Park

Big Hill Pond State Park received its name from the 35-acre Big Hill Pond which was created in 1853 when soil was scooped from a borrow pit to build a levee across the Tuscumbia and Cypress Creek bottoms for the Memphis to Charleston Railroad. The earlies

Natchez Trace State Park

Natchez Trace State Park is located on an alternate route of the old Natchez Trace. This route of the old trace is on the opposite side of the Tennessee River from the Natchez Trace Parkway. The name originally applied to a series of trails and paths that

Outdoor Chattanooga Center

Connecting you to Chattanooga's outdoor scene!

Outdoor Knoxville Adventure Center

A hub for outdoor recreation activities and information

Cumberland Mountain Outdoor Sports

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The 10 Best Scenic Train Rides in Tennessee

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

The Southern Appalachian Mountains  are renowned for their beauty, and in our experience there’s no better way to see them than taking scenic train rides in Tennessee.

East Tennessee train rides are one of the top tourist attractions in the Smoky Mountains along the North Carolina border.

But there are also great train trips that pair perfectly with visiting the  country music capital of Nashville!

All these railroads in Tennessee have some interesting history. But the train rides in the Tennessee mountains are especially steeped in Southern tradition and nostalgia.

Whether you’re interested in dinner train rides or overnight train rides in Tennessee, or just quick afternoon excursions, it’s a thrilling experience to swing around scenic mountainsides and duck through tunnels.

Read on for our in-depth guide to the most memorable train rides in TN, including all the pertinent info on where and when to ride the rails.

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Tennessee Mountain Towns to Visit

Scenic Train Rides in Tennessee Guide

• Dollywood Express (Pigeon Forge TN)
• Lookout Mountain Incline Railway (Chattanooga TN)
• WeGo Star East Corridor (Nashville TN)
• Three Rivers Rambler (Knoxville TN)
• Tennessee Central Railway Museum (Nashville TN)
• Tennessee Valley Railroad: Hiwassee Loop (Chattanooga TN)
• Tennessee Valley Railroad: Missionary Ridge Local (Chattanooga TN)
• Tennessee Valley Railroad: Summerville Steam Special (Chattanooga TN)
• Tennessee Valley Railroad: Tennessee Wine Train (Chattanooga TN)
• Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society (Jonesborough TN)

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Fairs in Tennessee to Visit

1. Dollywood Express

2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge TN • (800) 365-5996

Official Website

The closest thing to a train ride in Gatlinburg, Tennessee , the Dollywood Express isn’t a long journey, but it makes a memorable impression nevertheless.

Utilizing a 110-ton, coal-fired steam engine, the Dollywood Express covers about 5 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains wilderness and lasts about 20 minutes.

This train is listed among the rides and attractions at the Dollywood Theme Park, and the trip is included in the price of park admission.

Admission to the park is $92 for a one-day pass, $119 for a two-day pass, or $129 for a three-day pass. Discounts are available for children, seniors, and military families.

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Smoky Mountains Hotels to Visit in NC & TN

2. Lookout Mountain Incline Railway

3917 St Elmo Ave/827 East Brow Rd, Chattanooga TN • (800) 825-8366

Although the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway isn’t technically a train ride, it consistently makes the list of best Tennessee train rides and is always included in the rundown of Chattanooga, Tennessee  train rides.

The incline railway at Lookout Mountain  is actually the second of its kind. It has been in operation since 1895, and it put the original version (established in 1887) out of business in 1899.

It was originally created to transport folks up to a hotel at the mountain’s summit.

Despite several tragedies (including the burning of the first hotel and upper station), the railway continues to run, with thousands of people riding it every year.

This electric rail runs Monday through Sunday from 10AM to 6PM. Tickets cost $15 round trip for adults, and $7 for children ages 3-12, but discounted group rates are available.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Things to Do in Lookout Mountain GA/TN

3. WeGo Star East Corridor

108 1 st Ave S, Nashville TN • (615) 862-5950

As our nation strives to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, it’s exciting anytime a U.S.  city manages to implement public transportation .

This Nashville TN train is part of the greater Nashville area public transit system. WeGo Star connects riders with buses all along its route, from Riverfront (in Nashville proper) to Lebanon.

Riverfront Station is on 1 st Avenue in the heart of Downtown Nashville. From there it travels east to Donelson Station, Hermitage Station, Mt. Juliet Station, Marth Station, Hamilton Springs, and Lebanon Station.

In all, the route covers around 30 miles, and takes roughly 55 minutes to get from one end to the other.

Tickets for the full ride are $5.25 (one-way), with trains running 3 times in the morning and 3 times in the evening.

Note that this is an actual commuter train. But for those who’ve never experienced that, it’s an exciting way to get acquainted with Nashville’s metro area.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Waterfalls in Tennessee to Visit

4. Three Rivers Rambler

2560 University Commons Way, Knoxville TN • (865) 524-9411

There’s essentially only one viable option for scenic train rides in Knoxville TN, the Three Rivers Rambler.

It’s been operating as a tourist train since 2000, taking riders from Downtown Knoxville to the start of the Tennessee River .

The depot for the 3RR is at University Commons, near the UT campus. This area is packed with trendy stores and hip restaurants , so you can combine that with the train ride for a fun day of exploring.

Their fleet of engines is varied, including multiple steam engines. Three Rivers Rambler train rides  last about 2 hours, with boarding starting 20 minutes before departure.

The most popular of their Knoxville train rides is the Christmas Lantern Express, which runs 3 times a day on the weekends leading up to Christmas and several consecutive days leading up to  Christmas Eve.

READ MORE: The 7 Best Train Rides for Christmas in the Blue Ridge Mountains

5. Tennessee Central Railway Museum

220 Willow St, Nashville TN • (615) 244-9001

While WeGo Star is the modern-day version of Nashville train rides, the TN Central Railway Museum has more romantic incarnations of the Tennessee railways.

The museum offers several dinner trains in Nashville, including Wine Tasting Trips, Nashville Mardi Gras Excursion Train, Valenshines Moonshine Sippin’ Excursion, Murder Mystery Train Rides, and the Tennessee Fall Foliage  Excursion.

Seating options include “regular seating” at tables in the dining car, “coach seating” in comfy reclining chairs, and “dome seating” for the ultimate in panoramic views.

Tennessee Central Railway Museum excursions vary in length from 2 hours to 6+ hours. They can cost as little as $60 per person, and up to $180 depending on the seating and offerings of the particular trip.

This is a great place to go for a train ride  that celebrates life on the rails and has lots of fun while doing it.

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Things to Do in Bristol TN/VA

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga TN • (423) 894-8028

The Chattanooga train rides offered by the Tennessee Valley Railroad are hands down the best place for a memorable Tennessee train experience.

This location has a varied selection of popular excursions, and we would be remiss if we didn’t include several on this list.

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s mission is to preserve, operate, and showcase railroad artifacts to the public in the most authentic way possible.

Chattanooga has been in the railway game since before the Civil War , and the museum strives to continue that tradition.

They offer many different train rides in Chattanooga, and extend into the countryside around the mountain town .

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Places for White Water Rafting in Tennessee

6. Tennessee Valley Railroad: Hiwassee Loop/Copperhill Special

The Hiwassee Loop is a 50-mile round-trip excursion that takes 5 hours.

It traverses the Hiwassee River Gorge and corkscrews up a mountain on a route that formerly connected Etowah TN and Marietta GA on the Louisville & Nashville Railroads’ Atlanta Division.

Standard fare on this Hiwassee River Rail Adventure is $56 for adults and $38 for children ages 2-12. There are also cars with dome roofs for amazing views that cost a little over $100 per person.

The Copperhill Special is an extended version of this trip, traveling from Delano TN to McCaysville GA (near the town of Blue Ridge GA ).

It takes about 8 hours, and is 94 miles round-trip. Note that his route only runs from July to November.

READ MORE:  20 Incredible Places To See the Blue Ridge Mountains in Fall

7. Tennessee Valley Railroad: Missionary Ridge Local

The simplest of the Chattanooga TN  train rides is the Missionary Ridge Local.

It’s called “the local” because it is a relatively short tour lasting around 65 minutes.

This ride is just 6 miles round-trip, and involves a tour guide providing local history to deepen the visitor experience.

Highlights along the journey include crossing four bridges , a historic turntable to rotate the train, a pre- Civil War train tunnel, and a visit to train restoration shops.

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8. Tennessee Valley Railroad: Summerville Steam Special

The Summerville Steam Special is a serious undertaking that involves 9 hours of travel, departing from Grand Junction in Chattanooga and wandering down to the tiny town of  Summerville GA .

This train departs at 9AM and returns at 6PM, and their ticket prices are very reasonable for an all-day adventure.

Coach rides with no lunch are only $75. You can add a boxed lunch for $10, or do lunch in the dining car for $95 total.

In reality, most of this trip is through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia , as opposed to Tennessee . But it’s a rare opportunity to spend a full day on a steam-driven train!

READ MORE:  Where are the Blue Ridge Mountains? A State-by-State Guide

9.  Tennessee Valley Railroad:  Dinner Train

This 2-hour TVRM Dinner Train excursion is among their most popular journeys because it offers fine dining on a different stratosphere.

The trip is offered on select Fridays and Saturdays from March through October, departing from Grand Junction and making its way through East Chattanooga .

All Dinner Train rides include a gourmet 3-course meal, with fares ranging from $166 for shared tables of 4 to $300 for reserved tables of 4.

They offer meal choices to suit all tastes, including beef, chicken, fish, and vegetarian. Dessert options include Triple Chocolate Cake, Apple Pie, or Cheesecake. 

READ MORE:  10 Best Caverns and Underground Caves in Tennessee

10. Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society

110 South 2nd St, Jonesborough TN • (423) 753-5797

Jonesborough TN’s Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society hosts steam train rides through the Smoky Mountains .

This train departs from Bryson City NC , but there are coaches from Kingsport TN and Johnson City TN to catch the train in Bryson City .

The ticket window at the Bryson City Depot opens at 10:30AM, and trains return about 6 hours later at 4:30PM.

Their ridiculously scenic route passes Fontana Lake , follows the Little Tennessee River, crosses the Fontana Lake Trestle, and dives into the Nantahala Gorge.

Ticket options include First Class with Club Car seating for lunch ($180), Crown Class ($121), Tourist Coach Class ($105), and Open-Air Coach Class ($107). All classes come with a boxed lunch.

Note that this train’s route is in North Carolina , but it provides stellar views of Great Smoky Mountains National Park along the North Carolina/Tennessee border.   –by Jonathon Engels, featured photo via Canva

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Jonathon Engels

After visiting North Carolina for the first time, Senior Writer Jonathon Engels and wife Emma spent 2 years exploring Western NC in search of a homestead property. They first lived in Brevard, where Jonathon taught writing at Blue Ridge Community College and extensively explored the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest. For the last several years they have lived just off the BRP near Elkin, Southwest Virginia, and the NC High Country. The couple also volunteers with the Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention, the Elkin Valley Trail Association, and Reeves Downtown School of Music.

TENNESSEE VALLEY RAILROAD

Chattanooga & hiwassee train rides.

EXPLORE OUR TRAIN RIDES

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FEATURED TRAIN RIDES

• Most Popular
• Clock 65 minutes
• Users All Ages

Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride

Embark on a journey aboard our historic short-line locomotive! Our most regularly scheduled voyages, fondly known as “The Local,” initiate from our distinguished Grand Junction Station, heading towards East Chattanooga. Here, you’ll enjoy a stopover featuring an intriguing demonstration of a classic turntable, followed by a tour of our workshop.

• Family Favorite

Day Out with Thomas 2024

Returning in the Spring of 2024. Ride with Thomas and enjoy a day of fun-filled Thomas & Friends™ themed activities! Meet trains, enjoy crafts, storytelling, train play tables, coloring, temporary tattoos, and more!

• Clock 75-minute tea experience

The Homefront Tea Room

Experience a timeless blend of a traditional tea on the second floor of Grand Junction Depot and a historic train journey with the Homefront Tea Room – A Tea in the Depot Experience. Savor a full tea service replete with a selection of treats and a 65-minute train ride (on select dates); book your tickets for a memorable afternoon.

• Clock 6 Hours

Chickamauga Turn

The Chickamauga Turn is a historic 6-hour train ride to the Civil War town of Chickamauga, Georgia. The journey takes passengers through the beautiful rolling hills of rural Georgia via the former Central of Georgia Railroad.

A RIDE THROUGH TIME!

Take a trip back in time to a slower-paced era when railroad travel was a way of life. Relive the romance of the rails when vintage trains provided an escape from the everyday routine. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum provides an interactive, historical experience that adds an extra dimension to your visit to Chattanooga’s popular attractions. Here you will find the only regularly scheduled, full-sized train ride in Tennessee. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is so much more than entertainment… It is your chance to experience the sights and sounds of yesteryear!

AN ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE FOR ALL AGES!

Even though we did the shortest tour on the Missionary Ridge line, it was very enjoyable. We loved the history of that line as well as getting to see behind the scenes at the railyard. This was our first time doing this tour and visiting here, and we got a treat while here! When we were about to leave the railyard to head back to the Grand Junction, our engine (the 606) broke down. Thankfully, they had the 5000 there at the yard and we got to see how they exchange engines. It added an extra 30 - 45 minutes to our experience! We also enjoyed the feel of riding in a 1940's passenger car as well as seeing all the different trains in their collection. If our budget ever allows, we would love to come back and do their all day tours!

The service was OUTSTANDING!!! Staff were very attentive. The food was great! By far the best thing we’ve done, so far in Chattanooga!!!!

Had a wonderful time riding the 55min “Missionary Ridge Local” train ride, pulled by Southern #630. The museum grounds is beautiful, the equipment is fantastically taken care of, and every single staff member was welcoming and friendly! Special Notes: the conductor stopped the locomotive in front of the depot and offered to take pics of the visitors for them in front of the engine! A great touch! Trip includes a tour of the backshop where maintenance is done on the equipment

We rode the Hiwassee Loop excursion in November, and enjoyed the best seat in the house, from our perch in the dome car. Terrific scenery on a very unique track plan, and the tour guide is the best in the business. He shared tons of fascinating history. Gotta love this excursion out of Etowah, Tennessee!

My family and I visited the TV Railroad Museum on the way through Chattanooga and we loved it! It was a nice quick stop - only about 1.25 hours from arrival to departure. We went on the short Missionary Ridge ride, which was perfect with small kids. They got the thrill of being on a “real train” without getting bored. There aren’t any large interior areas (like a traditional museum), but you can see some beautiful restored trains in the yard, most from the 1920s-1940s. If you enjoy looking at vintage trains, I’d definitely recommend this for a quick visit. Oh, and try the local ice cream at the halfway point… it was delicious!

We took a ride on the Hiwassee Loop Railroad trip in October, to enjoy the changing of the leaves, and the trip was great. The conductor & staff are very courteous and knowledgeable, and we were thoroughly entertained. It's not expensive and worth every dollar. Only took 4 hours and there's lots to see. Snacks are provided for a minimum cost and you get a wonderful running narrative as you enjoy the scenery. Take the time to go to Etowah and catch the train!

We enjoyed the Hiwassee Loop trip that left from Etowah, Tennessee. The staff was very friendly and entertaining. Our conductor was a very good narrator and even played the banjo! Our trip was in the fall and the views were spectacular. We are hoping to plan another trip soon.

Thoroughly enjoyed my short trip on the TV rail today. The turntable is really cool to see in action along with the train repair depot. Lots of kiddos enjoying themselves, which was great to see. Riding the train is like a trip back in time! Seemed like there were a lot of local repeat customers who knew the staff, that says a lot about the experience and people!

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is to collect for preservation, operation, interpretation, and display railroad artifacts in an authentic setting to educate the public concerning the role of railroads in the history and development of our region.

LATEST NEWS & UPDATES

Tennessee valley railroad: timeless train journeys.

Step aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) and be whisked away into an era of steam engines and railway romance. This weekend, TVRM invites you to experience the charm of a bygone age with rides on the Missionary Ridge Local, powered by the historic engine, Steam Star #630—a testament to our nation’s rich railway…

March 29, 2024

Spike’s Visit Marks Spring Arrival at TVRM – Historical Insight

Spike was spotted checking out all the fun things happening at TVRM! Spring must really be on the way.   photo by Randy Neal

March 28, 2024

Steam Engine 630 Opened Season of Steam 2024

Steam Engine 630 Opened Season of Steam 2024 As Steam Engine #630 drifted the rails opening weekend, it stood as a proud emblem of the age of steam. At 120 years old, the engine is not only a marvel of historic engineering but also a symbol of enduring legacy and resilience. Make plans now to…

March 25, 2024

Tennessee knocks off Creighton for 2nd trip ever to Elite Eight

DETROIT — Dalton Knecht had 24 points, six rebounds and five assists and Tennessee captured an 82-75 Sweet 16 victory over Creighton in the Midwest Region on Friday night.

Tennessee (27-8), the No. 2 seed, qualified for the Elite Eight for the second time in school history. Zakai Zeigler supplied 18 points and six assists, and Josiah-Jordan James contributed 17 points.

Baylor Scheierman led No. 3 Creighton (25-10) with 25 points. Steven Ashworth added 16 points, Ryan Kalkbrenner had 14 points and seven rebounds, and Trey Alexander added 13 points, seven rebounds and six assists.

Tennessee starting guard Santiago Vescovi missed the contest due to an illness.

Neither side led by more than four points in the first half. Scheierman had 15 points as Creighton carried a 35-34 lead into the break. Knecht had 10 for the Volunteers, who committed just two turnovers during the half.

Tennessee's defense sparked the pivotal 18-0 run early in the second half. After two free throws by Knecht, James hit a jumper.

James then blocked a shot by Kalkbrenner, leading to Knecht's fastbreak layup. Knecht then made a steal and fed Jahmai Mashack for a layup.

Mashack then made a block, leading to another layup by Knecht. Zeigler then dropped in a 3-pointer and Mashack scored on a putback of Knecht's miss. After Scheierman couldn't hit a layup, James fired in a corner 3-pointer after a to make it 55-39 with 13:59 remaining.

Scheierman halted Tennessee's run with a 3-pointer.

Kalkbrenner cut the Volunteers' lead to 60-50 with a basket in the lane. The Bluejays soon went on a 9-0 run, including the last four from Kalkbrenner, to cut the Volunteers' lead to three at 62-59.

Knecht halted that burst with a 3-pointer, giving his club a 65-59 advantage. After Ashworth made a layup to make it 68-64 minutes later, both teams went cold until Tennessee's Tobe Awaka converted a three-point play with 1:39 remaining.

James made two free throws to extend the advantage to nine with 1:12 left. The Bluejays couldn't come closer than five the rest of the way.

—By Dana Gauruder, Field Level Media

Watch CBS News

Body of missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain found in river in West Nashville

By Kerry Breen

Updated on: March 22, 2024 / 1:50 PM EDT / CBS News

A body found in a river in West Nashville on Friday morning has been confirmed to be  missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain , the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department said.

Strain's body was recovered from the Cumberland River in West Nashville, about eight miles from downtown, police said on  social media .

Metropolitan Nashville Police Department Chief John Drake said in a news conference that "there is no other evidence that suggests anything other than" Strain falling into the river, noting that he still had his clothes, watch and other identifying items on him. 

Police added that no "foul play-related trauma was observed" and an autopsy is pending. Strain's family has been informed, Drake said.  

Strain, 22, disappeared while on a fraternity trip to Nashville, and was last seen on March 8, shortly after being kicked out of Luke's 32 Bridge, a bar owned by country singer Luke Bryan. The bar said its records show he ordered one alcoholic drink and two glasses of water. 

Surveillance video showed Strain walking alone in downtown Nashville. He was last seen at around 9:52 p.m. The friends he was with reported him missing just after 1:30 a.m.   

In a message to its student body , the University of Missouri said that Strain had traveled to Nashville to attend his fraternity's spring formal event. 

In recent days, the search for Strain has focused on area waterways after his debit card was found along a Nashville river. Officials first focused on Cumberland River's downtown section before expanding the search to include more of the river, including the Cheatham Dam, which is about 40 miles from downtown Nashville. The search has involved helicopters, boats and ground crews. Police also shut down the dam to inspect debris that floated to the surface, CBS affiliate  WTVF  reported.  

Strain's body was found by workers at a company on the river shortly after 7 a.m., Drake said.

"They removed something from the river and as they moved it they noticed Mr. Strain and called it in," Drake said. The police chief said that officers had planned to search this area of the river today, noting that because of Strain's height and weight it was believed his body could be surfacing in the area soon. 

Drake said that the police department received over 200 tips during the search for Strain, and thanked the community for their attempts to find him. He also said his "heart and prayers go out" to Strain's family. 

The Cumberland River is a major waterway that runs over 680 miles through Kentucky and Tennessee. Multiple dams dot the river.

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department has been working with the Cheatham County Sheriff's Office to conduct downriver operations. The United Cajun Navy, a volunteer disaster relief organization, has also participated in the search. 

After Strain's body was found, Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell said on social media that the city would "continue to work toward improvements in safety in a variety of ways."

"This is not the outcome that anyone hoped for – especially his parents and everyone who loved him," O'Connell wrote. 

The University of Missouri emphasized that resources were available for students and staff affected by Strain's death and disappearance.

"As the Mizzou community mourns Riley, we are keeping his family in our thoughts and offering support," the school said. 

The college student's parents have been in Nashville since the search began. Chris Whiteid, Strain's stepfather, told  ABC News  on Wednesday that the family had already started bracing for the worst-case scenario.

"Put yourself in our shoes. Everybody knows it. Everybody's thinking it," Whiteid said. 

• Riley Strain
• Missing Person

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

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Good Friday

Dalton Knecht scores 24, Tennessee beats Creighton 82-75 to pull within a win of first Final Four

Tennessee guard Dalton Knecht (3) attempts a basket as Creighton guard Baylor Scheierman (55) defends during the first half of a Sweet 16 college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament, Friday, March 29, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Creighton guard Baylor Scheierman (55) follows through on the play after a foul by Tennessee guard Dalton Knecht (3) during the first half of a Sweet 16 college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament, Friday, March 29, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

Tennessee guard Zakai Zeigler (5) drives as Creighton guard Trey Alexander defends during the first half of a Sweet 16 college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament, Friday, March 29, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Creighton head coach Greg McDermott walks on the court during the first half of a Sweet 16 college basketball game against Tennessee in the NCAA Tournament, Friday, March 29, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

Creighton guard Steven Ashworth reacts after a three-point basket during the first half of a Sweet 16 college basketball game against Tennessee in the NCAA Tournament, Friday, March 29, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Creighton guard Trey Alexander (23), defended by Tennessee guard Jordan Gainey (2) attempts a layup during the first half of a Sweet 16 college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament, Friday, March 29, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes watches from the sidline during the first half of a Sweet 16 college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament, Friday, March 29, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

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DETROIT (AP) — Dalton Knecht had 24 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals, and Tennessee moved within a victory of its first trip to the Final Four, beating Creighton 82-75 in a Midwest Region semifinal on Friday night.

Zakai Zeigler added 18 points and six assists for the second-seeded Volunteers. When Tennessee lost last year in the regional semifinals for the second straight season, Knecht was at Northern Colorado and Zeigler was out with a torn knee ligament.

Coach Rick Barnes’ Vols (27-8) have matched the longest NCAA Tournament run in school history and hope to get farther than the 2010 team that lost by one point to Michigan State in the Elite Eight.

Tennessee will face top-seeded Purdue , which beat Gonzaga earlier Friday night, on Sunday for the Midwest Region title and a Final Four appearance that has been elusive for both schools.

The third-seeded Bluejays (25-10) reached the Sweet 16 for the third time in four years and fell a win short of equaling their first regional final appearance from last year.

Baylor Scheierman, a third-team All-America wing, had 25 points and some of his teammates struggled against a long and athletic team that plays defense from the logo to the rim.

Steven Ashworth finished with 16 points and Ryan Kalkbrenner had 14 for the Bluejays, who had plenty of fight.

Tennessee went on a breathtaking 18-0 run early in the second half — taking a 55-39 lead — that forced Creighton coach Greg McDermott to call two timeouts because he didn’t want to wait for a TV stoppage to stem the tide.

Scheierman made a 3-pointer to end the drought and later had a three-point play during a 9-0 run that pulled the Bluejays within three points with 6:04 left.

Knecht made a pair of 3-pointers that restored six-point leads and Zeigler set up Tobe Awaka for a three-point play that put the Vols ahead 71-64 with 1:39 to go.

Tennessee survived the first weekend of the tournament, edging Texas by four points after opening with a rout of Saint Peter’s, with Knecht combining for 41 points in those games. The Bluejays advanced to the second weekend of the tournament with a rout of Akron and a double-overtime win over Oregon.

In the Sweet 16, Scheierman had 15 points in the first half and his second assist was a lob that Kalkbrenner slammed to put the Bluejays ahead 35-34.

Knecht was at his best during the pivotal burst early in the second half.

The 6-foot-6 wing, who transferred from Northern Colorado after playing at Northeastern Junior College, became the first former junior college player to earn All-America recognition since Larry Johnson in 1991.

Knecht had 10 points in a closely contested first half with eight lead changes, three ties and neither team going ahead by more than four points.

The Vols were pesky on defense, playing chest-to-chest 40 feet from the basket, and forced a team that averages 10-plus turnovers to lose possession four times in the opening five minutes.

Tennessee took advantage, scoring eight points off those turnovers.

Perhaps fittingly, both teams didn’t get much breathing room on the court or scoreboard.

BIG PICTURE

Creighton: A year after a heartbreaking, one-point loss to San Diego State prevented the program from its first Final Four, the Bluejays will have another long offseason to wonder what they could have done to get over the hump.

Tennessee: Barnes had his team prepared and made sound adjustments, but he needs another win to quiet his critics.

The Vols will play in front of a pro-Boilermakers crowd when Purdue tries to make its first Final Four since 1980.

AP March Madness bracket: https://apnews.com/hub/ncaa-mens-bracket and coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness

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Tennessee knocks off Creighton for 2nd trip ever to Elite Eight

DETROIT -- Dalton Knecht had 24 points, six rebounds and five assists and Tennessee captured an 82-75 Sweet 16 victory over Creighton in the Midwest Region on Friday night.

Tennessee (27-8), the No. 2 seed, qualified for the Elite Eight for the second time in school history. Zakai Zeigler supplied 18 points and six assists, and Josiah-Jordan James contributed 17 points.

Baylor Scheierman led No. 3 Creighton (25-10) with 25 points. Steven Ashworth added 16 points, Ryan Kalkbrenner had 14 points and seven rebounds, and Trey Alexander added 13 points, seven rebounds and six assists.

Tennessee starting guard Santiago Vescovi missed the contest due to an illness.

Neither side led by more than four points in the first half. Scheierman had 15 points as Creighton carried a 35-34 lead into the break. Knecht had 10 for the Volunteers, who committed just two turnovers during the half.

Tennessee's defense sparked the pivotal 18-0 run early in the second half. After two free throws by Knecht, James hit a jumper.

James then blocked a shot by Kalkbrenner, leading to Knecht's fastbreak layup. Knecht then made a steal and fed Jahmai Mashack for a layup.

Mashack then made a block, leading to another layup by Knecht. Zeigler then dropped in a 3-pointer and Mashack scored on a putback of Knecht's miss. After Scheierman couldn't hit a layup, James fired in a corner 3-pointer after a to make it 55-39 with 13:59 remaining.

Scheierman halted Tennessee's run with a 3-pointer.

Kalkbrenner cut the Volunteers' lead to 60-50 with a basket in the lane. The Bluejays soon went on a 9-0 run, including the last four from Kalkbrenner, to cut the Volunteers' lead to three at 62-59.

Knecht halted that burst with a 3-pointer, giving his club a 65-59 advantage. After Ashworth made a layup to make it 68-64 minutes later, both teams went cold until Tennessee's Tobe Awaka converted a three-point play with 1:39 remaining.

James made two free throws to extend the advantage to nine with 1:12 left. The Bluejays couldn't come closer than five the rest of the way.

--By Dana Gauruder, Field Level Media

This article first appeared on Field Level Media and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

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Enjoy A Scenic Train Ride And Spend The Night In A Converted WWII Train Car At This Tennessee Railroad

Chris Dodge

My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.

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As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.

There’s something so romantic and captivating about trains. The engine begins to roar, and the metal wheels start to turn on the tracks as the great iron horse lurches and rolls forward. Then, of course, you have the iconic steam rolling out the stack and the familiar and yet historical sound of the bells and the loud wail of the whistle. There is nothing quite like it. So If you want to take a step back in time and enjoy the history of rail travel, you’re in luck. We have planned a train-themed trip for you. On this trip you will hop on board one of the best scenic train rides in Tennessee , then you will get to spend the night in the most gorgeous converted WWII train car. How cool is that! So all aboard for a whole day — and night — of locomotive fun in Tennessee!

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Taking a trip back in time has never been so fun with this train-themed trip in Tennessee. Riding a historic steam train, which is one of the best scenic train rides in Tennessee, with the Three River Rambler and then staying in a converted WWII train . We can think of no better way to experience our rich roots with the railroads in our state. If you want to add a special gift to remember your locomotive trip then check out this customizable train pillow !

For your next day keep this historic trip going by visiting The Capitol Theatre Coffee & Ice Cream Parlor in Maryville. Experience the movie-making magic of the past at this silver screen-themed place.  

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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What are the best scenic train rides in Tennessee?

With a rich history there are plenty of scenic train rides in Tennessee but here are a few of our favorites:

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Here are a few of our favorite places to stay the night in a train in Tennessee:

• The Smoky Mountain Station
• The caboose at Jonesborough / Cherokee National Forest KOA

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How Tennessee House Republicans plan to fund their version of the voucher bill | The week in politics

As lawmakers continue to hash out parameters for a proposed statewide school choice program, House leadership is proposing to pay for some of their proposal with a pot of money that funds teacher raises.

House leadership said Thursday their plan will fund teacher insurance at a higher level, leaving more "take-home" pay for teachers.

"The No. 1 issue they have in a lot of areas is the amount they have to pay for insurance," House Speaker Cameron Sexton , R-Crossville, said of teacher feedback education committee members have received. "We propose to pay 60%, and increase what the state pays with a goal of trying to get to 80%. That would increase the take-home pay of what teachers take, in a lot of instances, and it frees up a lot of money locally that they can put back into teacher increases, if they so choose."

Gov. Bill Lee originally proposed $144 million for his Education Freedom Scholarships program. The governor's budget also includes a $261.3 million funding increase for public schools under the state's new Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement K-12 funding model. The increase proposed by Lee includes funding to bring starting pay for teachers to a minimum of $50,000 per year by 2027 ― something Lee has repeatedly committed to do.

Currently, the Senate version of the voucher bill is estimated to cost the state about $75 million ― with savings realized by funding the scholarships through allocations made in the state's new K-12 TISA funding structure.

But the House version of the voucher bill includes about $250 million for public schools beyond the $144 million originally proposed. The funding would go to increase the state-paid portion of public school teacher health insurance benefits from the current 45% to 60%, and offer school districts a per-student allocation for school infrastructure and maintenance, among other things.

House leadership confirmed they intend to pay for the difference with the $261.3 million in the governor's budget that right now is allocated toward TISA increases for public schools ― and also includes teacher salary raises ― "through a reallocation of the funding proposed by the Governor," Sexton spokesperson Connor Grady told The Tennessean in a text message.

"If you raise the amount we're paying toward their health insurance, that actually is money that can go directly in teacher's pockets," House Majority Leader William Lamberth , R-Portland, told reporters on Thursday. "That's what we want to do, as the speaker said, and be more strategic about how that $261 million is allocated."

Senate leadership has said they prefer their version of the bill, which Senate Education Committee Chair Jon Lundberg , R-Bristol, touted during a caucus meeting as both more streamlined and more fiscally conservative than the House version.

"We had a conversation with our House counterparts a week ago, and it took them about 2 minutes to explain their Education Freedom proposal ― and it took them about 17 minutes to explain the rest of what they had contained in their bill," Lundberg said. "We are still in talks about how we can come together."

Gardenhire attempts to add appointed attorney funding

Sen. Todd Gardenhire , R-Chattanooga, is sponsoring a budget amendment to fund a $26 million request from Administrative Office of the Courts to raise the appointed attorney rate for the first time in decades. 

Tennessee’s indigent defense reimbursement rate is the lowest in the nation and has only been raised $20 in the last four decades. The state is constitutionally required to provide legal counsel for those who can't afford it, and courts often must recruit independent attorneys for appointments outside of the public defender system. Though a task force studying the issue several years ago recommended raising it from $50 per hour to $120, the AOC made a "conservative" ask to fund an $80 hourly rate this year. 

It's not the first time the courts have requested the money, but the funding was once again left out of Lee's budget. 

Gardenhire decided to sponsor the amendment following committee testimony from Williamson County attorney David Grimmett  and the Tennessee Bar Association. 

The Tennessean last year reported the state's rate has squeezed Tennessee's judicial system to a “breaking point,” as judges struggle to find attorneys to appoint to case that lawyers are hesitant to take on.

Nearly half of all indigent cases involve families and child welfare issues in juvenile court, and Davidson County Juvenile Court Judge Sheila Calloway   told The Tennessean the juvenile courts struggle  to adhere to federally mandated case schedules as court staff scramble to convince attorneys to take on cases.

"On behalf of the juvenile court bar and every appointed counsel in this state, I am begging you to raise the rate for appointed counsel so that we can find a voice for these children and these families," Grimmett said. 

‘Christian Heritage Month’ designation goes to governor

A bill to designate November as “Christian Heritage Month” is on its way to Lee's desk after receiving final approval from the Tennessee Senate on Thursday morning. 

If signed by the governor, Christian heritage could be observed in Tennessee alongside 14 other state-designated months of observation including “Barber, Beauty, and Health Month” (April), “Silver Alert Awareness Month” (May), “Tennessee Archaeology Awareness Month” (September), and “Brain Aneurysm Month” (September).

Republican senators passed the bill Thursday in 26-2 vote with 3 Democrats abstaining. Sens. Jeff Yarbro , D-Nashville, and Heidi Campbell , D-Nashville, opposed the bill. 

Proposed by Sen. Paul Rose , R-Memphis, and Rep. Rusty Grills , R-Newbern, the bill, House Bill 2125 , would designate the month of November as a time “to encourage citizens to learn more about Christian heritage in this state.”

“We cannot dictate, we cannot mandate – but we should recognize where we came from,” Rose said before the vote Thursday, noting that 37 of the 56 signers of the U.S. Constitution had “the equivalency of a seminary degree.”

Senate Minority Leader Raumesh Akbari, D-Memphis, cited First Amendment concerns, saying the designation to “mix government and religion” is “dangerous,” and could be “a slippery slope.” 

“There’s a reason why when we have people pray for us at the beginning of session, we bring in people of a range of faiths because that represents us as the state of Tennessee,” Akbari said. 

But Sen. Page Walley , R-Savannah, said that designating a month to acknowledge a certain heritage is “already common practice.” He listed several designated heritage and awareness months on the Harvard University calendar, including Black History Month (February), Women’s History Month (March), LGBTQ Pride Month (June), and Native American Heritage Month (November).  

Sen. Kerry Roberts , R-Springfield, said that he feels it’s almost become “taboo” or “offensive” to bring up aspects of Christian heritage of the U.S., including the faith of the founding fathers. 

“The point of this is that there’s a rich history here that gets lost,” Roberts said. 

Sen. Ferrell Haile , R-Gallatin, argued that the bill is “a historical notation, not establishing a religion,” saying that he would oppose any effort to do so – and calling the Roman emperor Constantine’s declaration of Christianity as the religion of Rome “the worst thing in the history of Christianity.” Constantine’s Edict of Milan prohibited brutal persecution of Christians across the Roman Empire, and he later called the eccumenical Council of Nicaea, from which was issued the Nicean Creed – a statement of faith still professed today by hundreds of thousands of churches across the globe.

Blackburn touts border security bills on trip to Eagle Pass

U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tennessee, visited Eagle Pass, Texas to tour the U.S. border with Mexico, and observe local border security efforts undertaken in Operation Lone Star. 

“Just over a year ago, I was here in Eagle Pass and it was the hot spot, and they had people by the thousands coming over,” Blackburn told reporters after her visit. “Texas with Operation Lone Star stepped up and said, ‘we are going to secure our southern border.’ And with some buoys in the river, with containers on the riverbank, with razor wire and fencing, they have done that and their numbers have dramatically decreased.”

Blackburn claimed that while overall illegal entries to the United States are up, individuals seeking to cross the border unlawfully are doing so more in Arizona and California – and less so in Texas. 

While there, Blackburn touted two bills she’s sponsoring to bolster border law enforcement: the CONTAINER Act , which would allow state and local governments to construct temporary barriers on federal lands along the border, and the CLEAR Act, which would allow law enforcement to apprehend and detain individuals in the United States unlawfully who also commit another crime. 

I’ll take Davy Crockett for $1 million

Lee’s budget amendment, released this week, includes $1 million for a statue of Tennessee pioneer and frontiersman David Crockett on state Capitol grounds.

Lawmakers in 2012 established the David Crockett Commission to begin work toward erecting a monument as a “permanent tribute to one of Tennessee’s most prominent citizens throughout its history.” At the time, Rep. David Hawk , R-Greeneville, who has led the charge for creation of a Crockett statue, noted that state funds would not be used for the project.

In 2018, the legislature authorized the commission to raise private funds toward the monument, noting the legislature’s intent that “any available private funding is used to the full extent possible and that no state funds shall be used for such project until all private funding is exhausted.”

But despite the nine-member commission's 12 years of existence, no private funds have yet been raised.

"If approved by the General Assembly, Gov. Lee’s proposed budget item will be the first investment in the David Crockett Commission Fund," Finance and Administration spokesperson Gina Long told The Tennessean in an email. "This will appropriate the necessary funds to begin design, planning and installation of a statue honoring one of Tennessee’s most storied heroes."

Reversing the legislative intent of 2018, Hawk now says state funding will help jumpstart private fundraising to support the initiative.

"While we previously didn’t have the funding to pay for the construction of a statue in his honor, we are now in a strong financial position to follow through with this important project," Hawk told The Tennessean in a statement. "These funds will serve as seed money to kickstart an influx of private donations to help tell Crockett’s story. I am committed to preserving and protecting the history of Tennessee and I support Gov. Lee’s proposed allocation for this landmark.” 

There’s already one likeness of the legendary Tennessean inside the Capitol: a bust of Crockett keeps an eye on the House Chamber doors from an alcove on the second floor. Lawmakers voted in 2014 to place a bust of Crockett there, across from a bust of Andrew Johnson . It was unveiled in 2016. 

“David Crockett is an American legend and his contributions to Tennessee have had a lasting impact on this state," Hawk said. "His accomplishments and the story of his life in the Volunteer State deserve significantly more recognition."

Election Finance Registry ends Humble campaign probe

The Tennessee Registry of Election Finance has ended an 18-month inquiry into Tennessee Stands founder Gary Humble’s 2022 Senate campaign. 

Launched shortly after the 2022 primary election, Registry members voted to review Humble’s campaign finance records to determine whether his campaign unlawfully coordinated with Tennessee Stands during the election. The inquiry is now closed. 

“After 18 months, I’m glad that it is over. They say that the process is the punishment. And it is hard not to feel as if this was some type of political retribution for challenging a 16-year incumbent Majority Leader,” Humble said in a statement this week. “The work of the Registry is important and the people of Tennessee certainly deserve transparency. But candidates should also have the ability to run for public office without fear of reprisal or retribution by the political establishment.” 

Officials remember the late U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman 

Tennessee officials honored U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman , D-Connecticut, who died at age 82 this week after complications from a fall.  

Lieberman served as former Vice President Al Gore's running mate in the 2000 presidential election. Gore called him "a man of deep integrity who dedicated his life to serving his country."

"He was a truly gifted leader, whose affable personality and strong will made him a force to be reckoned with," Gore said in a social media tribute. "That’s why it came as no surprise to any of us who knew him when he’d start singing his favorite song: Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” And doing things Joe’s way meant always putting his country and the values of equality and fairness first."

"It was an honor to stand side-by-side with him on the campaign trail," Gore added. "I’ll remain forever grateful for his tireless efforts to build a better future for America."

Former U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander , R-Tennessee, who served with Lieberman in the Senate, said praised his former colleagues willingness to work across the political aisle.

“In his public life, Joe Lieberman lived Sen. Howard Baker’s admonition, “The other fella might be right.” That did not endear him to partisans but it made him a rare and valuable United States Senator,” Alexander said in a statement. “He stuck to his principles but he was open to other points of view—sponsoring bipartisan senate breakfasts and crossing the aisle to work on legislation. There will never be enough men and women in public life like Joe Lieberman. I will miss his friendship and the nation will miss his example.”

Catch up on the week

Republican lawmakers vacate full Tennessee State University board over Democratic objections

Tennessee bill allowing concealed carry in all businesses fails in Senate committee

In break from Tennessee Senate, House franchise tax bill would require public disclosure

Tennessee law named after slain Belmont student Jillian Ludwig advances in House

Inside the web of special interest groups pushing for expanded Tennessee school vouchers

Lee's updated TN budget includes more money for tax change but not House voucher bill

Tennessee bill to designate the Aitken Bible, others 'state books' heads to governor

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Dalton Knecht scores 24, Tennessee beats Creighton 82-75 to pull within a win of first Final Four

DETROIT (AP) — Dalton Knecht had 24 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals, and Tennessee moved within a victory of its first trip to the Final Four, beating Creighton 82-75 in a Midwest Region semifinal on Friday night.

Zakai Zeigler added 18 points and six assists for the second-seeded Volunteers. When Tennessee lost last year in the regional semifinals for the second straight season, Knecht was at Northern Colorado and Zeigler was out with a torn knee ligament.

Coach Rick Barnes' Vols (27-8) have matched the longest NCAA Tournament run in school history and hope to get farther than the 2010 team that lost by one point to Michigan State in the Elite Eight.

Tennessee will face top-seeded Purdue , which beat Gonzaga earlier Friday night, on Sunday for the Midwest Region title and a Final Four appearance that has been elusive for both schools.

The third-seeded Bluejays (25-10) reached the Sweet 16 for the third time in four years and fell a win short of equaling their first regional final appearance from last year.

Baylor Scheierman, a third-team All-America wing, had 25 points and some of his teammates struggled against a long and athletic team that plays defense from the logo to the rim.

Steven Ashworth finished with 16 points and Ryan Kalkbrenner had 14 for the Bluejays, who had plenty of fight.

Tennessee went on a breathtaking 18-0 run early in the second half — taking a 55-39 lead — that forced Creighton coach Greg McDermott to call two timeouts because he didn’t want to wait for a TV stoppage to stem the tide.

Scheierman made a 3-pointer to end the drought and later had a three-point play during a 9-0 run that pulled the Bluejays within three points with 6:04 left.

Knecht made a pair of 3-pointers that restored six-point leads and Zeigler set up Tobe Awaka for a three-point play that put the Vols ahead 71-64 with 1:39 to go.

Tennessee survived the first weekend of the tournament, edging Texas by four points after opening with a rout of Saint Peter’s, with Knecht combining for 41 points in those games. The Bluejays advanced to the second weekend of the tournament with a rout of Akron and a double-overtime win over Oregon.

In the Sweet 16, Scheierman had 15 points in the first half and his second assist was a lob that Kalkbrenner slammed to put the Bluejays ahead 35-34.

Knecht was at his best during the pivotal burst early in the second half.

The 6-foot-6 wing, who transferred from Northern Colorado after playing at Northeastern Junior College, became the first former junior college player to earn All-America recognition since Larry Johnson in 1991.

Knecht had 10 points in a closely contested first half with eight lead changes, three ties and neither team going ahead by more than four points.

The Vols were pesky on defense, playing chest-to-chest 40 feet from the basket, and forced a team that averages 10-plus turnovers to lose possession four times in the opening five minutes.

Tennessee took advantage, scoring eight points off those turnovers.

Perhaps fittingly, both teams didn’t get much breathing room on the court or scoreboard.

BIG PICTURE

Creighton: A year after a heartbreaking, one-point loss to San Diego State prevented the program from its first Final Four, the Bluejays will have another long offseason to wonder what they could have done to get over the hump.

Tennessee: Barnes had his team prepared and made sound adjustments, but he needs another win to quiet his critics.

The Vols will play in front of a pro-Boilermakers crowd when Purdue tries to make its first Final Four since 1980.

AP March Madness bracket: https://apnews.com/hub/ncaa-mens-bracket and coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness

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