Everyone In Tennessee Should Check Out These 15 Tourist Attractions, According To Locals
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Chris Dodge
Author
With the seemingly endless fun that can be had in Tennessee, sometimes the hardest part is narrowing down just what to do. That is a good problem to have! So to help us narrow down a list of some of the best Tennessee tourist attractions, we polled our readers and asked locals to chime in, too. I have compiled the top results and now I present you with the top 15 attractions picked by locals.
1. Fall Creek Falls State Park, Spencer
Fall Creek Falls State Park, 2009 Village Camp Rd, Spencer, TN 38585, USA
Being one of Tennessee's largest state parks, it is also home to the tallest waterfall in the state. Fall Creek Falls -- the waterfall that gives the park its name -- is well worth the visit.
There are miles of hiking trails to escape into nature and a few of them are quite adventurous. The trail leading down to the base of Fall Creek Falls is one of my favorites, but you can also hike across a swinging suspension bridge above the upper cascade of Cane Creek Falls. There is so much to see and do that you can easily return again and again to find new things to fall in love with at this incredible Tennessee State Park.
There are miles of hiking trails to escape into nature and a few of them are quite adventurous. The trail leading down to the base of Fall Creek Falls is one of my favorites, but you can also hike across a swinging suspension bridge above the upper cascade of Cane Creek Falls. There is so much to see and do that you can easily return again and again to find new things to fall in love with at this incredible Tennessee State Park.
2. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This is by far the most suggested attraction on the list. If you have ever set foot in our national park then you know exactly why it's so beloved by all.
The Great Smoky Mountains are a magical and enchanting forest with towering peaks and endless beauty. After multiple visits, I can say this is by far my favorite national park in the US. Incredible scenic drives, fairy tale hikes, wonderful waterfalls, and so much more await adventurers who explore this piece of heaven on earth.
Many people recommended taking a drive in Cades Cove, a suggestion with which I wholeheartedly agree. Filled with history, natural beauty, and one of the best places in the park to see wild black bears make The Smokies a number one suggestion from me!
The Great Smoky Mountains are a magical and enchanting forest with towering peaks and endless beauty. After multiple visits, I can say this is by far my favorite national park in the US. Incredible scenic drives, fairy tale hikes, wonderful waterfalls, and so much more await adventurers who explore this piece of heaven on earth.
Many people recommended taking a drive in Cades Cove, a suggestion with which I wholeheartedly agree. Filled with history, natural beauty, and one of the best places in the park to see wild black bears make The Smokies a number one suggestion from me!
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3. Dollywood, Pigeon Forge
Dollywood, 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, USA
Dollywood is the number one theme park in Tennessee, but that's not the only list it appears on. This park has claimed the award for the "prettiest park in the world," and it is easy to see why. Dollywood experiences a dramatic transformation each season, each more beautiful than the last.
My favorite time to visit is during the Smoky Mountain Christmas event when the whole place is covered in millions of sparking lights making for an enchanting experience. On top of the sights, Dollywood is home to some fantastic live shows, big thrill rides, and a variety of family fun. If you haven’t been to this theme park then I suggest you get tickets and experience the magic of Dollywood.
My favorite time to visit is during the Smoky Mountain Christmas event when the whole place is covered in millions of sparking lights making for an enchanting experience. On top of the sights, Dollywood is home to some fantastic live shows, big thrill rides, and a variety of family fun. If you haven’t been to this theme park then I suggest you get tickets and experience the magic of Dollywood.
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4. Pickett CCC Memorial State Park, Jamestown
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park, 4605 Pickett Park Hwy, Jamestown, TN 38556, USA
Our state parks are so good they can rival some of the major national parks found all across the United States. That is certainly the case with Pickett CCC Memorial State Park. This park is filled with surprises from natural bridges, caves, waterfalls, and much more. The remote nature of this area also lends itself to fantastic stargazing at night. Both Pickett CCC Memorial and the nearby Prouge Creek Canyon Natural Area were recognized as a silver-tier International Dark Sky Park. So venture out into this park to truly explore something otherworldly.
5. Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Gatlinburg is one of those quintessential mountain towns that everyone loves. This is definitely on my top three list of small towns in the state and I love it more and more every time I visit.
The best way to enjoy the town is to park your car and walk the streets to enjoy the many shops, restaurants, and attractions. One of my favorite things to do while visiting the town is to take a trip up to the Gatlinburg Skypark. Then again, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Anakeesta or Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. With so much to do, it's best to stay in town on a vacation to get the most out of your trip.
The best way to enjoy the town is to park your car and walk the streets to enjoy the many shops, restaurants, and attractions. One of my favorite things to do while visiting the town is to take a trip up to the Gatlinburg Skypark. Then again, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Anakeesta or Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. With so much to do, it's best to stay in town on a vacation to get the most out of your trip.
6. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Speaking of Gatlinburg, our next local suggestion is in this same charming small town, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This state-of-the-art facility offers a robust offering of not just unique aquatic animals, but experiences unlike any other.
Have you ever wanted to have a slumber party with sharks swimming above your head? Or how about playing with adorable penguins? At Ripley’s, these wishes can become a reality. Walk the underwater tunnel, pet a stingray -- there are so many incredible encounters to be had at this awesome aquarium.
Have you ever wanted to have a slumber party with sharks swimming above your head? Or how about playing with adorable penguins? At Ripley’s, these wishes can become a reality. Walk the underwater tunnel, pet a stingray -- there are so many incredible encounters to be had at this awesome aquarium.
7. Graceland, Memphis
Graceland, Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116, USA
Having such deep musical roots in our state certainly has its advantages. Tennessee has been home to some of the greatest musicians that have ever lived and one of them even holds the title of the King of Rock-N-Roll!
Elvis Presley forever changed the way we listen to music and a visit to his home can be just as inspiring. Graceland is the name of The King’s home base and has just about as much flair for the dramatics as he did. Visit the jungle room to see floor-to-ceiling shag green carpet, peek in at the very colorful billiard room, and walk in the footsteps of rock royalty. Make sure to time your visit during Christmas time to see the whole place lit up in yuletide joy!
Elvis Presley forever changed the way we listen to music and a visit to his home can be just as inspiring. Graceland is the name of The King’s home base and has just about as much flair for the dramatics as he did. Visit the jungle room to see floor-to-ceiling shag green carpet, peek in at the very colorful billiard room, and walk in the footsteps of rock royalty. Make sure to time your visit during Christmas time to see the whole place lit up in yuletide joy!
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8. Nashville
Nashville, TN, USA
Nashville is our biggest city and for that reason, it deserves a prominent place on our list. The musical history alone is worth visiting to immerse yourself in the rich culture we have in Music City. Not simply a one trick pony, Nashville has recently become known as a foodie paradise with multiple options from classic Southern cooking to unique international cuisine. Book a stay at Loews, a luxury hotel in the city, and explore this massive city for a fun weekend or a week-long getaway.
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9. Tennessee State Capitol Building, Nashville
Tennessee State Capitol, 600 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Nashville, TN 37243, USA
If you are a history buff, Nashville is filled with opportunities to learn about the past. A lot has happened in the big city and one of the best places to start is to visit the Tennessee State Capitol Building. You can take a self-guided tour or join a group to learn more about the building that still stands much as it did when it was originally built. Rumor has it the capitol building is also haunted, so keep your eyes peeled for ghostly activities during your visit!
In the same area are two other must-see places that you can add to your trip. The first one is the Tennessee State Museum, where guests can take a deep dive into the various eras we have seen in our state. The next is Tennessee’s smallest state park, the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. This tiny park offers not only nice green space but pays homage to the many things that make our state great.
In the same area are two other must-see places that you can add to your trip. The first one is the Tennessee State Museum, where guests can take a deep dive into the various eras we have seen in our state. The next is Tennessee’s smallest state park, the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. This tiny park offers not only nice green space but pays homage to the many things that make our state great.
10. Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
Grand Ole Opry, 600 Opry Mills Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, USA
When it comes to Nashville’s musical history, the Grand Ole Opry is about as (ahem) grand as it gets. Visit while enjoying a trip to Music City and get a ticket to tour the facility. Walk in the footsteps of many great country music artists to see backstage and learn more about what role this building has played in the musical history of Tennessee. If you time your stay just right you can even get tickets to see a concert and get the full Grand Ole Opry treatment.
11. The Lost Sea Adventure, Sweetwater
The Lost Sea Adventure, 140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874, USA
The Lost Sea Adventure is one of the best cave adventures you can have in Tennessee. This ancient cavern has outstanding rock formations as you work your way to the star of the show, the underground lake.
This is the biggest underground lake in the country and not only is it illuminated with stunning aquatic blue lights but you can also take a boat out on the water. Keep an eye out for the fish that call the caverns home as you float along the peaceful sea hidden deep under the surface of the earth.
This is the biggest underground lake in the country and not only is it illuminated with stunning aquatic blue lights but you can also take a boat out on the water. Keep an eye out for the fish that call the caverns home as you float along the peaceful sea hidden deep under the surface of the earth.
12. Rock Island State Park, Rock Island
Rock Island State Park, 82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, TN 38581, USA
Rock Island State Park is yet again another one of those unreal parks that we are blessed with here in Tennessee. The crown jewel of the park is Twin Falls which is one of the prettiest waterfalls in the state -- but that's not all you'll see when you visit this exquisite place. There is a popular beach area where you will forget all about the coast and enjoy a day playing in the sand and cooling off in the water. One of my favorite adventures you can have in the park, however, is a kayaking journey unlike any other. Paddle your way towards the famous waterfalls and pass along enough beautiful waterfalls flowing out of the rock cliffs that you will lose track.
13. Reelfoot Lake State Park
Reelfoot Lake State Park is one of the prettiest lakes in the state and is tucked into the northwest corner of Tennessee. The little town of Tiptonville borders the park entrance and is a charming community outside of this outstanding lake. The best way to enjoy the lake is to take a kayak or canoe out yourself to explore. The massive cypress trees jet out of the water creating not only interesting eye candy but a nesting place for birds. Dozens of bald eagles can be seen which is just one of the many reasons this is a must-visit lake.
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14. Cherokee National Forest
Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee 37727, USA
The Cherokee National Forest is a massive mountain range that spans pretty much the entire eastern side of Tennessee. With 650,000 acres to explore it is safe to say there is a lot to see and do. I have hiked many sections of this forest and keep finding more to explore. Some of my favorite spots have been hiking Roan Mountain, chasing waterfalls like Margarette Falls and Sill Branch Falls, and relaxing by Watauga Lake. This forest also hosts the Appalachian Trail and connects to other forests in Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia.
15. Ruby Falls, Chattanooga
Ruby Falls, Chattanooga, TN 37409, USA
Ruby Falls is the tallest free-falling underground waterfall open to the public in the country. It is quite a spectacle to behold and should be high on everyone’s bucket list. Located on Lookout Mountain there is a whole host of activities to enjoy while visiting the area. Aboveground at the entrance of Ruby Falls is a castle with zip-lining. Take the Lookout Mountain Incline Railroad for a lovely train ride up the mountain. Then take a trip just over the border into Georgia to see Rock City. There is plenty to do on this mountain alone and you can easily make this mountain a destination all by itself!
So there you have it: our top 15 local Tennessee tourist attractions. What do you think of this list? What would you add and how many have you been to? Let us know; we love hearing from you!
Before you go off adventuring in our great state I would like to showcase two tools that can be incredibly helpful in your travels. The first is AllTrails — this app will guide you on the trail and help you discover more trails so you don’t miss something while visiting a new area. The second resource my family frequently uses is Vrbo, a rental site where you can find one-of-a-kind places to spend the night in our one-of-a-kind state!
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