35 Best Places to Visit in Tennessee

Tennessee, a state brimming with adventure, culture, and natural beauty, offers a variety of experiences for every kind of traveler. Its diverse attractions promise unforgettable memories.

Visitors can explore historic landmarks, enjoy vibrant city life, or relax in serene countryside settings. It’s a place that welcomes exploration and invites visitors to return for even more discoveries.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise, straddling the states of Tennessee and North Carolina. Hikers can explore countless trails that weave through verdant forests and past misty waterfalls. The park is home to iconic spots like Cades Cove, where scenic drives offer breathtaking views and opportunities to see wildlife.

Meandering through the park, the Appalachian Trail provides a challenging path for avid hikers, granting magnificent vistas of the surrounding mountains. Waterfalls such as Grotto, Laurel, and Abrams Falls reward hikers with their stunning beauty.

Graceland

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Graceland, the iconic home of Elvis Presley, is a must-visit for music fans. Walking through the mansion, visitors can explore the King of Rock and Roll’s opulent lifestyle. Exhibits showcase Presley’s most cherished memorabilia, including costumes, awards, and personal items.

The themed rooms, like the Jungle Room with its green shag carpet and Polynesian flair, captivate guests with their distinct style. Beyond the house, the Meditation Garden offers a serene space where Elvis and his family are laid to rest. The atmosphere provides a moment of reflection amidst the excitement.

Dollywood

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Dollywood features over 40 rides, including roller coasters that defy gravity and water rides that provide a refreshing splash. Visitors can immerse themselves in live musical performances celebrating the region’s rich Appalachian culture, adding a layer of entertainment that’s hard to match.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Dollywood offers charming craft demonstrations and quaint shops with unique handmade goods. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped grounds, which evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia.

Ryman Auditorium

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Ryman Auditorium, often referred to as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” stands as a testament to Nashville’s rich musical heritage. Located in downtown Nashville, this iconic venue has hosted legends ranging from Johnny Cash to modern stars like Harry Styles.

The auditorium transforms by night into a lively concert hall, where the acoustics create an unrivaled listening experience. Beyond music, Ryman offers interactive exhibits that bring history to life, making it an engaging visit for all ages.

Beale Street

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Beale Street in Memphis is a legendary destination where music history and nightlife intersect. As dusk falls, visitors are immersed in a lively atmosphere filled with the sounds of blues and rock ‘n’ roll echoing from numerous venues. Street performers add to the excitement, captivating passersby with their energetic displays.

Walking down this historic street, you’ll encounter bars and clubs offering live performances, creating an authentic Memphis experience. Neon lights illuminate the way as people gather to enjoy good company and cold drinks.

National Civil Rights Museum

Our Rating: 9.5/10

The National Civil Rights Museum is a poignant destination, meticulously preserving the legacy of the American civil rights movement. This historic site, centered around the former Lorraine Motel, offers visitors an immersive experience through its comprehensive exhibits.

The museum includes powerful multimedia displays, personal stories, and interactive exhibits that engage and educate about the struggle for equality. One of the most significant spots is the preserved balcony where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968, offering a somber but profound connection to this pivotal moment in history.

Lookout Mountain

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Lookout Mountain is an iconic gem straddling the border between Tennessee and Georgia. This scenic destination is well-known for Ruby Falls, one of the country’s deepest underground waterfalls accessible to the public. Visitors can embark on a guided trek beneath the mountain, exploring captivating cave formations before witnessing the awe-inspiring cascade.

Another highlight is Rock City Gardens. This picturesque trail weaves through towering rock formations and enchanting gardens. As they wander through the “Enchanted Trail,” visitors marvel at whimsical sculptures and panoramic views stretching as far as seven states.

Tennessee Aquarium

Our Rating: 8.7/10

The Tennessee Aquarium draws visitors with its captivating underwater world. The aquarium offers a mesmerizing journey through both freshwater and saltwater exhibits. Guests can explore diverse ecosystems ranging from the depths of the ocean to the rivers of Tennessee. Stunning displays like the colorful coral reefs and exotic marine creatures motivate endless exploration.

The Rivers of the World gallery introduces visitors to fascinating creatures from river basins across the globe. The Butterfly Garden, a tropical haven within the aquarium, enchants with its colors and fluttering butterflies.

Grand Ole Opry

Our Rating: 9.4/10

The Grand Ole Opry is a cornerstone of country music and American culture. This legendary venue is known for its live performances featuring both seasoned stars and upcoming talent. Attendees can immerse themselves in the history of country music while enjoying an exciting atmosphere.

Beyond the music, visitors can take guided backstage tours to see behind the scenes of this iconic theater, exploring dressing rooms and getting closer to the storied legacy of the Opry itself.

The Parthenon

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Parthenon stands as a striking full-scale replica of the ancient Greek marvel. This architectural gem was initially constructed for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition. Visitors can explore the impressive 42-foot sculpture of Athena within, crafted meticulously to reflect historical grandeur.

The interior houses an extensive collection of American art from the Cowan Collection, offering art enthusiasts a chance to immerse themselves in rich artistic heritage. Besides the permanent exhibits, a rotation of temporary shows provides diverse insights into various art forms and historical narratives.

Ruby Falls

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Ruby Falls is an awe-inspiring place with a breathtaking underground waterfall. Visitors can embark on guided tours through fascinating caves to reach the thundering 145-foot waterfall, illuminated with colorful lights that highlight its stunning beauty. The paths leading to the falls reveal incredible stalactites and stalagmites, creating a visually striking journey filled with geological wonders.

In addition to the standard tours, Ruby Falls offers specialty experiences such as Lantern Tours, where guests can explore the caverns by candlelight for a more atmospheric adventure.

Johnny Cash Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Johnny Cash Museum is a treasure for music enthusiasts. This engaging attraction provides an in-depth look into the life and legacy of the Man in Black. Visitors can explore a vast collection of memorabilia, including handwritten lyrics and personal instruments, offering a personal glimpse into Johnny Cash’s world.

The museum also sheds light on Cash’s profound influence, from his deep faith to his work advocating for prisoners. Audio and video exhibits feature performances and interviews, making the experience immersive.

Titanic Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Titanic Museum is an immersive experience that transports visitors to another era. As you step inside, the museum’s interior resembles the grand ship itself, with meticulously recreated rooms and lavish decor. Guests can explore over 400 artifacts that bring the story of the Titanic and its passengers to life.

For young visitors, the Tot-Titanic area provides an engaging space with activities designed for imaginative play. While the museum’s impressive collection of items from the Titanic is fascinating, visitors should also be prepared for the emotional journey of learning about the passengers’ stories.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Originally the home of Leslie and Mabel Cheek, it features a 1930s mansion inspired by majestic 18th-century British estates. Visitors can explore beautifully furnished period rooms within the mansion. The estate houses a top-notch botanical garden where visitors can stroll through diverse plant collections.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the museum’s permanent collection galleries showcasing various works. Engaging for families, Cheekwood offers interactive tours and special events. The gardens host seasonal exhibitions, making any visit special.

Memphis Zoo

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Memphis Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals from more than 500 different species. Visitors can encounter fascinating creatures like giant pandas and the rare Louisiana pine snake. The zoo features engaging exhibits such as the Zambezi River Hippo Camp and Teton Trek, which mimic natural habitats.

Guests can feed sea lions, adding a unique twist to the traditional zoo experience. Those needing assistance can rent comfortable wheelchairs or electric carts, ensuring everyone can explore the zoo effortlessly.

Tennessee State Museum

Our Rating: 8.7/10

The Tennessee State Museum stands as a gateway to the rich history and culture of the state. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era. Highlights include engaging displays of Civil War memorabilia and intricate First Nations artifacts, offering historical insights and connections.

The museum’s art collection captivates with works from local artists, presenting varied perspectives. Visitors can often find special temporary exhibits focusing on specific themes or periods, refreshing the experience for repeat visitors.

Museum of Appalachia

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Museum of Appalachia covers 60 acres of picturesque countryside. Visitors can explore over 30 authentic log buildings and discover half a million artifacts that tell the stories of Appalachian settlers. The museum also hosts interactive exhibits, and herds of farm animals further enhance the experience. An onsite restaurant serves delicious, locally inspired dishes, offering a taste of traditional Appalachian cuisine.

The gift shop is stocked with unique, locally crafted items and informative books. With both practical displays and engaging activities, the museum offers a hands-on journey through history, allowing visitors to gain insight into the daily lives and crafts of those who lived in the region.

Sun Studio

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Sun Studio in Memphis stands as a monument to music history. Known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, it is where legends like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded their first songs. The studio is small but filled with memorabilia and stories that transport visitors back to the 1950s.

Adjacent to the studio, an old-fashioned soda fountain and gift shop add to the nostalgic experience. Touring Sun Studio is more than a visit; it’s a journey through the vibrant era that brought rock ‘n’ roll to life.

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage stands as a testament to American history and the life of the seventh president. Visitors can explore the sprawling 1,120-acre estate, which includes over 30 historic buildings. The mansion itself offers a glimpse into early 19th-century Southern architecture, while the museum provides insights into Jackson’s life and legacy.

Enthusiasts of American history and architecture will find much to appreciate, from the intricate interiors of the mansion to the expansive gardens that surround it. A visit to The Hermitage is both a journey back in time and an educational experience, offering a rich narrative of Andrew Jackson’s impactful era.

Bristol Motor Speedway

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Bristol Motor Speedway is an iconic destination known for its thrilling NASCAR events. Known as “The Last Great Colosseum,” this legendary track delivers a heart-pounding experience with its high-banked oval track that amplifies speed and tension. Racing enthusiasts flock here to witness intense competition in a close-up view unmatched by many other tracks.

Beyond the races, visitors can explore guided tours that take them behind the scenes to witness everything from the infield to the pit areas, enriching their understanding of this automotive landmark.

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nashville Zoo houses over 375 species, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of its fascinating inhabitants. The zoo’s interactive experiences make it a standout destination. Guests can wander through immersive habitats, from the lush Bamboo Trail to the tropical Aviary, where colorful birds swoop overhead.

Animal enthusiasts will find joy in the daily animal shows and informative keeper talks. The zoo’s innovative exhibits, like the Expedition Peru exhibit featuring howler monkeys and Andean bears, make for an engaging adventure.

Cades Cove

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Cades Cove is a magnet for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The 11-mile Loop Road offers a leisurely drive or bike ride through stunning landscapes, with opportunities to spot deer, black bears, and turkeys. Along the route, visitors can explore historic cabins, churches, and mills, each telling stories of the early Appalachian settlers.

Hikers will find abundant trails, like the Abrams Falls Trail, which promises a rewarding waterfall view. Cades Cove is a place where the beauty of nature and the richness of history coexist seamlessly.

American Museum of Science and Energy

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge is a compelling destination that pulls visitors into the intriguing world of science. This museum is famous for its dynamic exhibits that include interactive displays highlighting the fascinating history of Oak Ridge’s role in the Manhattan Project.

Guests are invited to explore exhibits on smartphone technology, 3D printing, and super-computing, offering a hands-on experience that makes science accessible and exciting.

Percy Warner Park

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Percy Warner Park, part of the expansive Warner Parks system, is one of Tennessee’s largest municipal parks, covering over 2,600 acres. The park offers hikers and nature enthusiasts a diverse landscape, showcasing trails like the Mossy Ridge Trail, which is well-regarded for its challenging 5.1-mile route with a significant elevation gain.

Visitors can enjoy exploring the historic stone steps at the entrance known as “The Allee,” which adds a touch of history to the adventure. The park’s mixed-use trails cater to different fitness levels and interests, providing opportunities for leisurely walks or intense hikes.

Jack Daniel’s Distillery

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Jack Daniel’s Distillery is an iconic destination for whiskey enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. At this historic site, visitors can explore the fascinating process of crafting Tennessee whiskey. The guided tour takes them through the journey from raw ingredients to the final product, highlighting the unique charcoal mellowing process that sets Jack Daniel’s apart.

The tour also offers insights into the life of Jack Daniel himself, weaving together captivating stories of his legacy. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and engage with the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always eager to share their passion for this world-renowned spirit.

Country Music Hall of Fame

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Country Music Hall of Fame serves as a homage to the roots and stars of country music. Visitors can wander through fascinating exhibits showcasing iconic instruments, costumes, and memorabilia, vividly narrating the genre’s evolution.

A visit includes access to a stunning array of sound recordings and videos, offering an auditory journey through decades of influential tracks. Enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the detailed storytelling that reveals the industry’s peaks and personal stories of its stars.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Our Rating: 9.1/10

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music stands proudly as a celebration of soul music’s rich heritage. This museum is located on the original site of the iconic Stax Records, where legends like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes recorded hits that shaped American music. Spanning over 17,000 square feet, the museum promises an immersive experience.

Visitors can explore state-of-the-art interactive exhibits showcasing rare vintage instruments and memorabilia. With over 3,000 items, the museum offers a glimpse into the era that defined the Memphis Sound.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Located in Tennessee, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is a key center for scientific research and innovation. Visitors can explore the Graphite Reactor, a significant historical site where groundbreaking nuclear research took place. Engaging guided tours provide insights into the laboratory’s impactful past and current scientific advancements.

The Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy exhibit showcases the latest in sustainable technology, a must-see for those interested in the future of energy. Curious minds can enjoy presentations and interactive displays that highlight ORNL’s contributions to various scientific fields.

Shiloh National Military Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Shiloh National Military Park is a vital historical site commemorating a significant Civil War battle. Visitors can explore the Shiloh and Corinth battlefields, which bear witness to a crucial moment in American history. Located at 1055 Pittsburg Landing Road, the park’s visitor center serves as a starting point to delve into the past through exhibits and films.

At the center, guests can learn about the events of April 6-7, 1862, where over 23,000 casualties marked one of the war’s deadliest confrontations.An auto tour provides an immersive experience around important battle sites.

Dragon Tail Drive US-129

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Dragon Tail Drive on US-129 promises an electrifying journey with its infamous 318 curves packed into just 11 miles through the Smoky Mountains. Motorcycle and car enthusiasts alike flock to Test their skills on this iconic route. As drivers navigate the intricacies of Banked Turns like Copperhead Corner and Gravity Cavity, adrenaline surges through their veins.

Each twist in the road is unique, demanding precision and offering a thrill that is hard to match. While the road’s demanding nature maintains engagement, safety precautions such as wearing protective gear remain crucial.

Lost Sea Adventure

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Lost Sea Adventure is a destination featuring America’s largest underground lake. Visitors can explore this fascinating subterranean world by taking a boat ride across the shimmering waters beneath the surface. Guided tours provide insights into the history and geology of the cavern, discovered in 1905, offering a unique and educational experience.

The site offers several tour options, including daily tours and wild cave tours, which allow more adventurous individuals to delve deeper into less accessible parts of the cave. The caverns’ mysterious rooms and intricate formations intrigue both first-time explorers and seasoned spelunkers.

Shelby Farms Park

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Shelby Farms Park captivates visitors with its vast 4,500 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The iconic Greenline trail extends over 10 miles, connecting different parts of the city, and is a favorite for cyclists and joggers alike.

Those seeking adventure can engage in paid activities like horseback riding and ziplining, offering thrilling experiences amid natural surroundings. For families, the park includes playgrounds and a splash pad, ensuring fun for all ages.

Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar

Our rating: 9.5/10

Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar offers a unique dining experience with its innovative “flight” concept, allowing guests to sample multiple dishes and wines in a single meal.

The menu features a variety of small plates, including seafood, steak, and game options, each thoughtfully paired with complementary wines. The elegant interior, with its warm lighting and sophisticated decor, creates an inviting atmosphere for both casual and special occasions.

Discovery Park of America

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Discovery Park of America in Union City transforms every visit into an intriguing journey through history, science, and imagination. The museum features 100,000 square feet of engaging exhibits that captivate both children and adults. Visitors can explore dinosaurs, innovation, galleries of natural history, and historically significant artifacts.

Outside, the 50-acre heritage park provides a refreshing escape. It has a man-made river flowing through scenic waterfalls and picturesque bridges. These features create an inviting atmosphere for leisurely walks or picnic spots.

Lotz House Museum

Our Rating: 8.4/10

The Lotz House Museum is steeped in fascinating history. Located at the heart of where the pivotal Battle of Franklin unfolded during the Civil War, the museum provides an evocative narrative of that era.

Visitors can explore well-preserved rooms adorned with period pieces, telling tales of bravery and resilience. The museum also hosts specialized tours, such as the Women’s History Tour and intriguing ghost tours, adding a layer of mystery to its historic allure.

Tennessee provides something for every traveler. Its blend of culture, adventure, and Southern hospitality ensures experiences that linger long after your visit. Tennessee is a destination that welcomes exploration and leaves visitors eager to return for more discoveries.