When looking at a map of the entire United States, Tennessee quickly becomes one of the most recognizable states. It is shaped like an irregular parallelogram, nearly four times as long as it is wide, and measures approximately 420 miles from east to west and 120 miles from north to south. But what the two-dimensional view doesn’t tell us is that its boundaries contain seemingly endless variations in both landscape and culture. “Tennessee is the perfect blend of urban and rural, casual yet sophisticated, with easy access to the great outdoors,” says his chef, Cassidy Dabney, executive director of The Barn at Blackberry Farm. I will explain. “Throw in a glorious musical and cultural heritage, incredible high and lowland gastronomic destinations, and a rich and diverse geography, and you have a state that will keep you entertained and engaged.”
While its largest cities, Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, attract the attention of many travelers, the only way to truly understand Tennessee is through a more nuanced itinerary. “I think people who visit here should get off the interstate and wander or pass through the small towns. Otherwise, you’ll miss the local places that give this state such great color and character. It will be,” says Tandy Wilson, chef and owner of City House in Nashville.
To make sure your next trip to the Volunteer State is filled with rich experiences and great sights, we asked locals for advice on the best places to visit in Tennessee. See which cities, towns and attractions made the list.
nashville
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Music City, suggested by several experts, is definitely at the top of the list. When planning your trip, keep some of Wilson’s favorite restaurants in mind. He recommends the mac and cheese at his cafe, Silver Sands. “I want real Southern macaroni and cheese, and this is the only place I can get it.” Giant Shrimp and Fried Calamari at Red Perch, Nachos and Wings BBQ Joint at Martin’s.
broadway
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There’s a lot to see and do in Nashville, but there’s one area of the city you can’t miss. It’s Broadway. “First timers have to go to Broadway to play Honky Ton King. Robert’s, he’s Western, he’s World, he’s got a cold beer, he’s fried bologna, he’s a sandwich, he’s country, he’s music.” Dabney says. His property manager, David Mishkin, an executive at Southall Farm & Inn, also says this is an important addition to his visit to Nashville. Country music is everywhere and the performances are all of a high quality. It’s hard not to have fun when you’re soaked in energy and action. ”
memphis
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“When I think of Memphis, I think of music, art, and beautiful historic buildings,” says Stephanie King, an artist based in the state’s southwesternmost city. This creative side of Memphis can be seen in many neighborhoods, but King says the Memphian Hotel is a good place to start. “For me, The Memphian embodies many aspects of Memphis in the most inspiring and welcoming way. Just as our intention when designing the environment was to create pure magic. The walls are adorned with local art, and layers of color and texture, whimsy and sophistication are all incorporated into a comfortable, homey atmosphere,” she says.
graceland
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Graceland, the storied home of Elvis Presley, is located 12 minutes from downtown Memphis. A destination in its own right, this historic building includes the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s home, gardens, cars, and the Guest House at Graceland, where music fans can stay and experience resort luxury and Southern hospitality. It is.
leper’s fork
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One of Tennessee’s most charming small towns, Leiper’s Fork is a 45-minute drive southwest of Nashville. Mishkin says it’s a “charming place to have a barbecue, shop for antiques, and enjoy a delicious drink at a distillery.” Like many places in the state, it has something to do with music. If that’s what you’re into, check out Fox & Rock. According to Myskin, it’s a “famous place where people gather for food, drinks, and live music.”
chattanooga
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Among the southern river cities, Chattanooga is one of the best. “If you’re in the area, you should definitely visit Rock City and Ruby Falls. The museums are amazing,” Dabney says of the Hunter Museum of American Art in the Bluff View Art District. In between outdoor activities and cultural attractions, fill up on fried chicken and tamales at Champy’s and rejuvenate with cocktails at The Rose Comb.
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 is home to the Fiery Gizzard Trail. “Situated near Beersheba Springs and Old Stone Fort outside of McMinnville, it’s full of natural beauty. To tackle this hike, you need to be able to walk several miles, but we didn’t bring our kids along. Let’s go,” Wilson says.
Walland
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Wolland may strike a chord due to its association with Blackberry Farms and Blackberry Mountain. “When you go to Blackberry Farm, you’ll have a top-of-the-line luxury experience with trails, mountain biking, a James Beard Award-winning restaurant, a spa, farm animals, workshops, concerts, and more,” says King. Dabney also shared her suggestions for the mountain, saying: Lexus going on an off-road adventure and throwing clay into an art studio. ”
Fall Creek Falls State Park
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“Fall Creek Falls State Park is another great place for camping, biking, and hiking,” King said. At 30,638 acres, this park is one of Tennessee’s largest state parks. In addition to its size, it has several other features, including interesting geological formations (caves and canyons) and scenic waterfalls.
franklin
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It’s easy to overlook Franklin in favor of its neighbor to the north, Nashville, but travelers can’t resist spending at least an afternoon in this historic community. “There’s nothing better than walking down this picture-perfect Main Street on a sunny day. With well-chosen shops and friendly people around every corner, we loved strolling through the city with our family. I often spend the day doing this,” says Mishkin. For longer trips, stay at the luxurious Southall Farm & Inn, which opened in late 2022.
Maryville
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A small city near Knoxville, Maryville is perfect for those who love the outdoors. “Book a room at RT Lodge, a charming lodge located behind Maryville University. You’ll feel secluded while still being in the heart of town, with a great restaurant and gorgeous bar called Morningside. ” says Dabney. “With RT as your base camp, Great He’s a quick drive to the Smoky Mountains.”
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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One of the most visited national parks in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its lush forests, wildflowers, rivers, streams, waterfalls, and great hiking trails. “My favorite hike in the Smoky Mountains is Indian Flat Falls. It’s about 9 miles, has a beautiful waterfall, a reasonable distance, and you can always turn back,” says Dabney.
gatlinburg
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Gatlinburg maintains the title of “Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” so your hiking trip is likely to start here. There are three entrances to the park right outside of town, and Mishkin says, “It’s worth the trip because you can immerse yourself in nature.” “The history contained in the ruins around the park shows how people lived hundreds of years ago,” he added.
RELATED: 8 Most Charming Small Towns in Tennessee
pigeon forge
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Pigeon Forge has long been synonymous with Dollywood and Dolly Parton (which Martin Luther King Jr. calls “an American icon and Tennessee favorite”), whether you’re into theme parks, shopping, or hiking. It’s full of activities for the whole family. Smoky Mountains. It’s also the location of Parton’s newest venture, his 302-room lodge Dolly Woods Heartsong Lodge & Resort, which opened in November of this year.
The Caverns
kat brown
“The Caverns is another East Tennessee spot that offers great concerts, especially bluegrass. We have one indoor underground cave venue and one outdoor amphitheater,” King says. He can watch upcoming shows online while planning his trip. Don’t forget to bring your hiking shoes too. “The Caverns is surrounded by trails, rock climbing, waterfalls, and spectacular views.”
bristol
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Bristol, Tennessee is the twin city of Bristol, Virginia. Both states claim the main street, named State Street, as their own, allowing him to stand in two states at the same time. Whether you stay on the Virginia side or the Tennessee side, check things off your bucket list like taking a photo with the iconic Bristol sign, checking out the Bristol Motor Company Speedway, and visiting his birthplace. There are some important things to do. 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 said Reelfoot Lake State Park in northwest Tennessee is “home to some of the most beautiful cypress trees” and is known for its birding opportunities, with “over 270 species of birds.” Masu. It’s also completely different from other parks in the state. The lake itself is a submerged forest, with the cypress trees mentioned by Dr. King rising above the water, creating a majestic view.
