Tennessee, United States: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Nashville International Airport with planes and Tennessee landscape in background

Did you know Tennessee is home to more caves than any other state in the USA, with over 10,000 documented underground caverns? This surprising fact is just the beginning of what makes the Volunteer State so captivating. From the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the pulsing beats of Nashville’s honky-tonks, Tennessee offers an irresistible blend of natural beauty, rich history, and musical heritage that draws millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, our comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best things to do in Tennessee.

Getting to Tennessee

Tennessee is easily accessible by air, with major airports in Nashville (BNA) and Memphis (MEM) offering connections to cities across the United States and beyond. Nashville International Airport serves as the primary gateway for visitors heading to central and eastern Tennessee, while Memphis International Airport is ideal for those exploring the western portion of the state.

If you prefer driving, Tennessee is well-connected by several interstate highways. I-40 runs east-west across the entire state, connecting Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville. I-75 provides access from the north and south through Knoxville, while I-24 and I-65 connect Nashville to surrounding states.

Ready to Plan Your Tennessee Adventure?

Find the best flight deals to Nashville or Memphis and start your Tennessee journey today!

Search for Flights

Planning Your Tennessee Journey

Person planning Tennessee trip with map, guidebook, and laptop showing Tennessee best things to do

Tennessee offers distinct experiences throughout the year, so timing your visit depends on what you want to see and do. Spring (April-May) brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers in the mountains, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. Summer (June-August) is festival season, with events like Bonnaroo Music Festival and Nashville’s CMA Fest drawing huge crowds.

Fall (September-November) transforms the state with spectacular foliage, especially in the Great Smoky Mountains, while winter (December-February) offers quieter attractions and holiday celebrations in major cities. Consider building your itinerary around Tennessee’s diverse regions: the mountains in the east, the musical cities in the middle, and the Mississippi River culture in the west.

When is the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains?

Mid-October to early November offers the most spectacular fall foliage, while April and May showcase beautiful spring wildflowers. Summer brings warmer temperatures ideal for water activities, but also larger crowds. Winter offers a peaceful experience with occasional snow, though some roads may close temporarily.

How many days should I spend in Tennessee?

For a comprehensive Tennessee experience, plan for at least 7-10 days. This allows time to explore Nashville (2-3 days), Memphis (2 days), the Great Smoky Mountains (2-3 days), and perhaps Knoxville or Chattanooga (1-2 days). With less time, focus on one or two regions rather than rushing through the entire state.

When to Visit Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains in autumn with vibrant fall foliage, one of the Tennessee best things to do

Spring & Summer (March-August)

Spring brings mild temperatures (60-80°F) and blooming wildflowers throughout Tennessee. This is an excellent time for hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains and exploring outdoor attractions. Summer temperatures climb to 85-95°F with higher humidity, making water activities popular. This is peak tourist season with numerous music festivals, outdoor concerts, and events across the state.

Fall & Winter (September-February)

Fall offers comfortable temperatures (50-70°F) and spectacular foliage, especially in the mountains. This is considered by many to be the most beautiful time to visit Tennessee. Winter brings cooler weather (30-50°F) with occasional snow, particularly in the mountains. While some mountain roads may close temporarily, this is the least crowded season with lower accommodation rates in most areas.

Traveler Tip: If you’re planning to visit during popular events like CMA Fest in Nashville (June), Bonnaroo in Manchester (June), or peak fall foliage season in the Smokies (October), book accommodations 3-6 months in advance to secure the best options.

Getting Around Tennessee

Scenic Tennessee highway through mountains with rental car

Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way to explore Tennessee, especially if you plan to visit multiple regions or the Great Smoky Mountains. The state’s major cities and attractions are connected by well-maintained highways, making road trips enjoyable and scenic. Interstate 40 runs east-west across the entire state, connecting Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville.

Within major cities like Nashville and Memphis, rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) and taxis are readily available. Nashville offers a hop-on-hop-off trolley tour that’s perfect for tourists, while Memphis has the vintage Main Street Trolley. Public transportation options are limited outside of these urban centers, so a rental car is highly recommended for exploring beyond city limits.

Explore Tennessee at Your Own Pace

Rent a car and discover all the hidden gems Tennessee has to offer!

Find Rental Cars

Where to Stay in Tennessee

Luxury cabin accommodation in the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Nashville

Stay downtown for easy access to Broadway’s music scene and major attractions. The Gulch and Midtown offer trendy accommodations near excellent dining options. East Nashville provides a more local experience with boutique hotels and vacation rentals in a hip neighborhood.

Great Smoky Mountains

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer everything from luxury resorts to family-friendly cabins. For a more secluded experience, look for cabin rentals in Townsend or Wears Valley. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort provides themed accommodation with park benefits.

Memphis

Downtown Memphis puts you close to Beale Street and major attractions like the National Civil Rights Museum. The Harbor Town area offers upscale accommodations with Mississippi River views. East Memphis provides more affordable options with easy access to the city.

Find Your Perfect Tennessee Accommodation

From luxury hotels in Nashville to cozy mountain cabins in the Smokies, find the perfect place to stay during your Tennessee adventure.

Browse Accommodations

Top Attractions: Tennessee Best Things to Do

Grand Ole Opry stage in Nashville, one of the Tennessee best things to do

Tennessee offers an incredible variety of attractions that appeal to music lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike. From iconic music venues to breathtaking natural wonders, here are the absolute must-see attractions across the state.

Music & Entertainment

  • Grand Ole Opry (Nashville) – Experience the world’s longest-running radio show and see country music legends perform on the iconic stage. Tours available daily, with performances several nights each week.
  • Beale Street (Memphis) – Explore the heart of Memphis blues with live music pouring from every doorway on this historic street. Visit B.B. King’s Blues Club for authentic blues and southern cuisine.
  • Country Music Hall of Fame (Nashville) – Discover the evolution of country music through interactive exhibits, historic instruments, and memorabilia from your favorite artists.
  • Graceland (Memphis) – Tour Elvis Presley’s iconic mansion and see the King’s personal artifacts, gold records, famous jumpsuits, and final resting place in the Meditation Garden.
  • Dollywood (Pigeon Forge) – Enjoy thrilling rides, craft demonstrations, and musical performances at Dolly Parton’s Appalachian-themed amusement park.

    • Natural Wonders

    Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee best things to do for nature lovers
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Hike among ancient forests, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy spectacular mountain vistas in America’s most visited national park.
  • Ruby Falls (Chattanooga) – Descend 260 feet underground to witness America’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall accessible to the public.
  • Lookout Mountain (Chattanooga) – Take the Incline Railway up the steepest passenger railway in the world and enjoy views spanning seven states from Rock City.
  • Fall Creek Falls State Park – Marvel at one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States, surrounded by gorges, cascades, and virgin hardwood forests.
  • Lost Sea Adventure (Sweetwater) – Boat across America’s largest underground lake in this remarkable cave system.

    • History & Culture

    National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, important Tennessee historical site
  • National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis) – Located at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this powerful museum traces the history of the Civil Rights Movement.
  • The Parthenon (Nashville) – Visit the world’s only full-scale reproduction of the ancient Greek Parthenon, complete with a 42-foot statue of Athena.
  • Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage (Nashville) – Tour the preserved plantation home of America’s seventh president and learn about life in the early 19th century.
  • Tennessee State Museum (Nashville) – Explore Tennessee’s rich history from prehistoric times through the present day in this free, state-of-the-art museum.
  • Sun Studio (Memphis) – Stand in the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll” where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and many others recorded their first hits.

    • Outdoor Adventures in Tennessee

    Whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River in Tennessee

    Tennessee’s diverse landscape offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From the misty mountains in the east to the mighty Mississippi River in the west, here are some of the best outdoor adventures to experience in the Volunteer State.

    Hiking & Scenic Drives

  • Clingmans Dome – Hike to the highest point in Tennessee for panoramic views from the observation tower.
  • Cades Cove Loop – Drive or cycle this scenic 11-mile loop to spot wildlife and historic buildings in the Smokies.
  • Alum Cave Trail – Experience one of the most dramatic and interesting hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway – Drive this historic 444-mile scenic route that begins in Nashville and runs through three states.

    • Water Activities

  • Ocoee River – Experience world-class whitewater rafting on this Olympic venue river.
  • Norris Lake – Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in one of Tennessee’s largest reservoirs.
  • Reelfoot Lake – Paddle through cypress trees in this unique lake formed by earthquakes in the early 1800s.
  • Percy Priest Lake – Try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing just minutes from downtown Nashville.

    • Adventure Tip: The Ocoee River hosted the 1996 Olympic whitewater events and offers rafting trips for various skill levels. Book with a reputable outfitter for the best experience, especially during peak summer months when spots fill quickly.

    Tennessee Food & Drink Experiences

    Traditional Tennessee BBQ platter with ribs, pulled pork, and sides

    Tennessee’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape, offering everything from world-famous barbecue to innovative farm-to-table cuisine. Here are some must-try food and drink experiences across the state.

    Iconic Tennessee Eats

  • Memphis-Style BBQ – Try the dry-rubbed ribs at Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous or the pulled pork at Central BBQ for authentic Memphis barbecue.
  • Nashville Hot Chicken – Experience the fiery, crispy sensation at Prince’s Hot Chicken (the original) or Hattie B’s (more tourist-friendly).
  • Country Ham & Biscuits – Sample this Southern breakfast staple at the Loveless Cafe, a Nashville institution since 1951.
  • Meat and Three – Enjoy this Tennessee tradition of selecting one meat and three side dishes at Arnold’s Country Kitchen in Nashville.
  • Moon Pies – Try this sweet treat first created in Chattanooga, consisting of marshmallow sandwiched between graham crackers and dipped in chocolate.

    • Tennessee Whiskey Trail

    Jack Daniel's Distillery tour in Lynchburg, Tennessee

    Tennessee is world-famous for its whiskey, with a tradition dating back to the early 1800s. The Tennessee Whiskey Trail features more than 30 distilleries across the state where you can learn about the distilling process and sample some of the finest spirits in the world.

  • Jack Daniel’s Distillery (Lynchburg) – Tour America’s oldest registered distillery and learn about the Lincoln County Process that defines Tennessee whiskey.
  • George Dickel Distillery (Cascade Hollow) – Visit this historic distillery founded in 1870 and sample their handcrafted small-batch whiskey.
  • Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery (Nashville) – Discover the revived pre-Prohibition distillery with a fascinating family history and excellent craft spirits.
  • Ole Smoky Moonshine (Gatlinburg) – Sample legal moonshine in various flavors at Tennessee’s first legal moonshine distillery.

    • Foodie Tip: Many distilleries require reservations for tours, especially during peak tourist season. Book in advance to secure your spot, and always arrange for a designated driver or tour service when sampling spirits.

    Family-Friendly Tennessee Best Things to Do

    Family enjoying Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

    Tennessee offers countless attractions that will delight visitors of all ages. From thrilling theme parks to educational museums, here are the best family-friendly activities across the state.

    Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg

  • Dollywood – Enjoy thrilling rides, craft demonstrations, and musical performances at this Appalachian-themed park.
  • Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies – Walk through underwater tunnels and touch stingrays at this world-class aquarium.
  • Ober Gatlinburg – Experience year-round activities including skiing in winter and an alpine slide in summer.
  • The Island in Pigeon Forge – Ride the 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and enjoy family-friendly attractions and shops.

    • Nashville

  • Adventure Science Center – Explore over 175 hands-on exhibits focused on biology, astronomy, physics, and more.
  • Nashville Zoo – See over 2,700 animals representing more than 365 species in naturalistic habitats.
  • Lane Motor Museum – Discover one of the largest collections of European cars and motorcycles in the U.S.
  • General Jackson Showboat – Cruise the Cumberland River on a paddle-wheel riverboat with live entertainment.

    • Memphis & Beyond

  • Memphis Zoo – Visit one of only four zoos in the U.S. to house giant pandas among its 3,500 animals.
  • Children’s Museum of Memphis – Enjoy interactive exhibits designed for learning through play.
  • Discovery Park of America (Union City) – Explore this 100,000-square-foot museum with exhibits on nature, science, technology, and history.
  • Tennessee Aquarium (Chattanooga) – Journey from the mountains to the sea through freshwater and saltwater exhibits.

    • Family Tip: Purchase the Smoky Mountain Attractions Pass if visiting multiple attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. It offers significant savings on admission to popular sites like WonderWorks, Ripley’s attractions, and more.

    Practical Tips for Your Tennessee Visit

    Tourist taking photo of Nashville skyline with Cumberland River

    Travel Essentials

  • Weather Preparedness – Pack layers regardless of season. Mountain temperatures can be 10-15°F cooler than cities, and weather can change quickly.
  • Transportation – A rental car is highly recommended for exploring beyond major cities. Public transportation is limited outside urban areas.
  • Accommodations – Book 3-6 months in advance if visiting during peak seasons (summer, October fall foliage, or major events).
  • Tipping – Standard tipping is 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and $1-2 per bag for hotel porters.

    • Local Insights

  • Music City Circuit – Use Nashville’s free downtown shuttle service to navigate between major attractions.
  • Great Smoky Mountains – Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome.
  • Beale Street – Be aware that Memphis allows open containers only on Beale Street, not throughout the city.
  • Distillery Tours – Several counties in Tennessee are “dry,” but distilleries can still offer tastings thanks to special state laws.

    • Money-Saving Tip: Many of Tennessee’s best attractions are free, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee State Museum, and live music performances at many Nashville venues. Balance paid attractions with these free options to stretch your vacation budget.

    Suggested Tennessee Itineraries

    Road trip through Tennessee with map and scenic view

    Classic Tennessee (7 Days)

  • Days 1-2: Nashville – Explore Music Row, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, enjoy live music on Broadway, and tour the historic Ryman Auditorium.
  • Days 3-4: Great Smoky Mountains – Drive to Gatlinburg, hike in the national park, visit Cades Cove, and enjoy mountain attractions.
  • Day 5: Knoxville – Visit Market Square, the Sunsphere Tower, and explore the city’s growing food scene.
  • Days 6-7: Memphis – Tour Graceland, visit the National Civil Rights Museum, explore Beale Street, and sample authentic Memphis barbecue.

    • Tennessee for Music Lovers (5 Days)

  • Days 1-3: Nashville – Visit the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, RCA Studio B, Musicians Hall of Fame, and spend evenings exploring different music venues.
  • Days 4-5: Memphis – Tour Sun Studio, Graceland, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and enjoy live blues on Beale Street.

    • Family Adventure (6 Days)

  • Days 1-2: Chattanooga – Visit the Tennessee Aquarium, Ruby Falls, Rock City, and ride the Incline Railway.
  • Days 3-5: Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg – Enjoy Dollywood, Ripley’s Aquarium, WonderWorks, and family-friendly hikes in the Smokies.
  • Day 6: Knoxville – Explore the Zoo Knoxville, the Children’s Museum, and the World’s Fair Park.

    • Create Your Perfect Tennessee Vacation

    Ready to experience the best of Tennessee? Book your flights, accommodations, and rental car today!

    Find Flights
    Book Accommodations

    Experience the Heart and Soul of Tennessee

    From the rhythmic pulse of Nashville’s music scene to the serene beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers a unique blend of experiences that capture the essence of American culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re tapping your feet to live music on Broadway, savoring mouthwatering barbecue in Memphis, or watching the sunset from Clingmans Dome, the Volunteer State creates memories that will last a lifetime.

    With its warm Southern hospitality, rich musical heritage, and breathtaking landscapes, Tennessee welcomes visitors with open arms and sends them home with full hearts. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover why Tennessee is one of America’s most beloved destinations. Your perfect Tennessee adventure awaits!

    The above is subject to change.

    Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.

    Related Posts

    Norris Lake, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Norris Lake, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Did you know Norris Lake boasts over 800 miles of shoreline? That's more than the entire coastline of some small countries! This pristine reservoir in East Tennessee has been a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts since its creation in 1936. With crystal clear...

    Franklin, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Franklin, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Did you know that Franklin, Tennessee was named one of America's "Greatest Southern Towns" by Southern Living and boasts a 16-block historic district with over 70 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places? This charming city, just 21 miles south of...

    Bell Buckle, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Bell Buckle, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Despite having fewer than 500 residents, Bell Buckle, Tennessee attracts over 50,000 visitors annually to its legendary RC Cola & MoonPie Festival. This tiny town, established in 1856, has become an unexpected tourism powerhouse by preserving its authentic...

    Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Did you know Pigeon Forge welcomes over 11 million visitors annually, despite having a permanent population of just 6,000 residents? This charming mountain town nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains has transformed from a quiet mill community to one of...

    Bristol, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Bristol, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

    Did you know Bristol is the only city in America that straddles two states? The iconic State Street running through downtown literally marks the Tennessee-Virginia border, allowing you to stand in two states at once! This unique geographic quirk is just the beginning...