Tennessee On Us Map Travel Guide
Tennessee On Us Map Travel Guide
Top Attractions
Tennessee is a state that boasts an array of attractions that appeal to all types of travelers. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the country and is a must-see destination for nature lovers. The Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge offers thrilling rides, live music performances, and delicious southern cuisine.
The Graceland mansion in Memphis is another popular attraction, where visitors can explore the home of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. The Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville is a must-visit for music lovers, showcasing the history and evolution of country music through interactive exhibits and live performances.
Hidden Gems
While Tennessee has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring. The Lost Sea Adventure in Sweetwater is the largest underground lake in the United States and offers visitors the chance to explore a mysterious and beautiful underground world.
The Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg offers tours that give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the whiskey-making process. The Tennessee Valley Railroad in Chattanooga offers scenic train rides through the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Food Scene
Tennessee is known for its southern cuisine, which includes fried chicken, barbecue, and biscuits. The Loveless Cafe in Nashville is a popular spot for breakfast, offering homemade biscuits and country ham. For barbecue, try Rendezvous in Memphis, which has been serving up delicious ribs since 1948.
For a unique dining experience, head to the Treehouse Restaurant in Nashville, which is located in a 100-year-old oak tree. The menu includes southern favorites like fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Tennessee on a budget is possible with some planning and insider tips. Many of the state’s parks and natural attractions are free to visit, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Natchez Trace Parkway.
For affordable accommodations, consider camping or staying in a hostel. The Music City Hostel in Nashville offers dorm rooms starting at $29 per night. Eating at local diners and food trucks can also save you money while still experiencing the local cuisine.
Outdoor Adventures
Tennessee is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. The Ocoee River in East Tennessee is a popular spot for whitewater rafting, while the Hiwassee River offers calmer waters for canoeing and kayaking.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. The Cumberland Plateau in Middle Tennessee is a great spot for rock climbing and bouldering.
Historical Landmarks
Tennessee played a significant role in the Civil War, and visitors can explore many historical sites and landmarks related to this period in history. The Shiloh National Military Park in West Tennessee is the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the war, and offers tours and exhibits that showcase the history of the battle.
The Andrew Jackson Hermitage in Nashville is the home of the seventh president of the United States and offers tours of the mansion and surrounding grounds. The Belle Meade Plantation in Nashville is another historic site that offers a glimpse into the region’s past.
Family-Friendly Activities
Tennessee is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that will keep kids of all ages entertained. The Memphis Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals and offers interactive exhibits and animal encounters.
The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga is another family-friendly attraction, with exhibits that showcase aquatic life from around the world. The Adventure Science Center in Nashville offers hands-on exhibits and activities that teach kids about science and technology.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for unique experiences in Tennessee, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore. The Rock City Gardens in Lookout Mountain is a natural wonder that features a 180-foot waterfall, ancient rock formations, and a 140-foot suspension bridge.
The Museum of Appalachia in Clinton is a living history museum that showcases the customs and traditions of early pioneers in the region. The Cumberland Caverns in McMinnville offer tours of one of the largest underground cave systems in the country.
Natural Wonders
Tennessee is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country, including waterfalls, caves, and mountains. The Ruby Falls in Chattanooga is a 145-foot underground waterfall that is illuminated with colorful lights.
The Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including seven states on a clear day. The Fall Creek Falls State Park in Pikeville is home to a 256-foot waterfall and offers hiking trails, campsites, and cabins.
Vibrant Nightlife
Tennessee is known for its vibrant music scene, and many bars and clubs offer live performances by local musicians. The Broadway Strip in Nashville is a popular spot for nightlife, with honky-tonk bars and live music venues lining the street.
Beale Street in Memphis is another spot for nightlife, with blues clubs and restaurants serving up delicious southern cuisine. The Market Square in Knoxville is a popular spot for dining and nightlife, with an array of restaurants and bars to choose from.
Local Markets
Tennessee is home to many farmers’ markets and artisanal shops that offer locally-made goods and fresh produce. The Nashville Farmers’ Market is open year-round and features over 150 vendors selling everything from fresh berries to handmade crafts.
The Chattanooga Market is another popular spot, with over 300 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry. The Memphis Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays and features live music and food trucks in addition to vendors selling fresh produce and other goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Tennessee is a state that offers both beaches and mountains, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Gulf Islands National Seashore in Pensacola is a popular spot for beach lovers, with miles of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers stunning mountain views and plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga offers both mountain views and underground caves to explore.
Cultural Immersion
Tennessee is a state that is rich in culture and history, and visitors can immerse themselves in the local customs and traditions. The Cheekwood Estate and Gardens in Nashville offers tours of the mansion and gardens, as well as art exhibits and live performances.
The Frist Art Museum in Nashville is another cultural attraction, with exhibits that showcase local and international artists. The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art in Memphis offers a collection of over 10,000 works of art, including works by renowned artists like Pablo Picasso and Edgar Degas.
Art and Music Scene
Tennessee is a state that is known for its art and music scenes, and visitors can explore many galleries, museums, and music venues. The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville is a historic music venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in country music, including Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton.
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis is another must-visit for music lovers, with exhibits that showcase the history of rock and soul music. The Knoxville Museum of Art in Knoxville offers a collection of over 7,000 works of art, including works by local and international artists.
Walking Tours
Tennessee is a state that is best explored on foot, and there are many walking tours available that showcase the local history and culture. The Memphis Walking Tour offers a glimpse into the city’s history and culture, including its role in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Nashville Food Tour is a walking tour that takes visitors to some of the city’s best restaurants and food trucks, offering a taste of the local cuisine. The Knoxville Walking Tour is another popular option, with tours that showcase the city’s historic architecture and landmarks.
Architectural Marvels
Tennessee is home to many architectural marvels, including historic mansions, churches, and government buildings. The Tennessee State Capitol Building in Nashville is a Greek Revival-style building that was completed in 1859 and is open for tours.
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is another architectural marvel, with a 250-room mansion that was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s. The Parthenon in Nashville is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece, and is home to a museum and art gallery.
Historical Sites
Tennessee is a state that is rich in history, and visitors can explore many historical sites and landmarks. The Civil Rights Museum in Memphis is located in the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968.
The Historic Rugby in Rugby is a preserved Victorian village that offers a glimpse into life in the 1800s. The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park in Nashville is another historic site, with monuments and exhibits that showcase the state’s history and culture.
