Tennessee is one of those places that’s packed with everything—from heart-racing adventures to laid-back getaways and some of the tastiest food you’ll ever eat.
Whether you’re dreaming of mountain views, dipping your toes in cool rivers, listening to live music or trying something a little out of the ordinary (ever seen marching ducks?), this state has it all.
But where do you even begin?
That’s where we come in!

We’ve rounded up 40 unforgettable things you have to experience while you’re here, and trust us—this isn’t your typical travel guide.
Keep reading to uncover the can’t-miss adventures, hidden gems and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will make you fall head over heels for Tennessee!
Outdoor Adventures in Tennessee
1. Hike Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome)

Kuwohi (also known as Clingmans Dome) is the highest point in Tennessee at 6,643ft and offers jaw-dropping 360-degree views of rolling mountains that stretch across Tennessee and North Carolina.
Located along the Appalachian Trail, the half-mile paved path may be steep, but it’s worth it.
At the top, you’ll find a cool observation tower (technically in North Carolina) that looks like a UFO and, on clear days, views that reach as far as 100 miles!
2. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Ready to explore over 500,000 acres of misty mountains, wildflower meadows and lush forests teeming with black bears, waterfalls and historic cabins?
Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, this park is free to enter and offers something for everyone.
Whether it’s hiking, spotting elk or driving the breathtaking Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail!
3. Hike to Laurel Falls

The Laurel Falls Trail is a super popular, family-friendly hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that leads to a gorgeous 80-foot waterfall cascading over smooth rocks.
This 2.6-mile roundtrip trail is paved but can get a little steep, so wear good shoes—and don’t forget your camera, because the falls look amazing, especially after a good rain!
4. Take a boat ride on the Tennessee River in Chattanooga

Cruising along the Tennessee River is the perfect way to soak in stunning views of Chattanooga’s riverfront, surrounded by scenic mountains.
Hop aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat for a laid-back cruise with live music and dinner, or try a kayak or stand-up paddleboard if you’re feeling adventurous.
5. Take in the views at Lookout Mountain

At the summit of Lookout Mountain, you’ll get jaw-dropping views of 7 states—but there’s so much to explore!
You can also wander through Rock City’s whimsical gardens and explore history with a visit to Point Park, where you’ll learn all about the Civil War “Battle Above the Clouds.”
6. Hike to the waterfalls at Cummins Falls State Park

The waterfalls at Cummins Falls State Park drop 75 feet into a crystal-clear swimming hole, making it one of the most stunning natural pools in Tennessee!
The 3-mile round trip hike to the falls is adventurous, with river crossings and rocky sections, but it’s totally worth it to cool off in the refreshing water at the bottom.
7. Camp under the stars at Fall Creek Falls State Park

Fall Creek Falls State Park is an excellent place to camp as it’s near some of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern U.S., with hiking trails, swimming spots and stargazing right at your doorstep.
With over 200 campsites (plus cabins and a lodge if tents aren’t your thing), it’s the perfect place to grill s’mores, explore suspension bridges and spot wildlife like deer and wild turkeys!
8. Explore Ruby Falls

Deep inside Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls is an incredible underground waterfall plunging 145 feet into a cavern that’s lit up with colorful lights.
Take a guided tour through twisting tunnels to reach the falls and along the way, you’ll spot stunning rock formations like stalactites and flowstone—plus, it’s a cool 60°F year-round.
9. Hike to Alum Cave Bluffs

The Alum Cave Bluffs trail offers breathtaking views as you climb through narrow rock arches and along cliffside ledges in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
This 5-mile round trip hike takes you to a massive rock overhang where misty waterfalls trickle over the edge—it’s a perfect spot for a break before continuing to Mount LeConte if you’re up for a bigger challenge!
10. Take a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway

This drive will take you through 444 miles of lush forests, rolling hills and historic landmarks stretching from Tennessee to Mississippi.
Along the way, stop at hidden gems like the Devil’s Backbone hiking trail, Meriwether Lewis’s burial site and charming small towns perfect for a roadside picnic.
11. Explore the Lost Sea in Sweetwater

The Lost Sea in Sweetwater is the largest underground lake in the U.S., where you can take a boat ride across crystal-clear waters hidden beneath a massive cave system.
Explore the eerie beauty of the cavern, learn about ancient cave creatures and hear wild stories about the lake’s history—like the legend about how Confederate soldiers once used it as a secret hideout!
Iconic Tennessee Music & Cultural Experiences
12. Tour Graceland in Memphis

A trip to Graceland is a must for Elvis Presley fans as you can tour the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s mansion and check out his famous Jungle Room, gold records and glitzy jumpsuits.
Outside, explore the Elvis car museum, snap a photo with his private jets and pay respects at his gravesite.
13. Visit the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville

The Grand Ole Opry isn’t just a music venue—it’s the heart of country music, where legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton have performed.
Catch a live show for an unforgettable night of toe-tapping tunes, and if you’re a superfan, go on a backstage tour to see the dressing rooms and stand in the famous circle.
14. Enjoy a night of honky-tonk bars on Broadway in Nashville

Broadway in Nashville is buzzing with energy, where honky-tonk bars spill live music onto the streets from morning ‘til late night.
Grab a cold drink and dance along at famous spots like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge or The Stage, and don’t be surprised if you stumble upon rising stars or a surprise set by a country legend!
15. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame is filled with memorabilia, with exhibits featuring everything from Johnny Cash’s black suits to Taylor Swift’s handwritten lyrics.
Wander through interactive galleries to learn about the history of country music, and don’t miss the iconic Wall of Gold Records or the legendary Hatch Show Print shop right next door!
16. Visit Sun Studio in Memphis

Known as the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Sun Studio is where legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis first recorded.
Step into the very same recording room, hear behind-the-scenes stories from your guide and even stand at the mic where Elvis belted out his hits—music history doesn’t get more iconic than this!
17. Catch a live show at the Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, nicknamed the “Mother Church of Country Music,” is where the Grand Ole Opry first made its name and continues to host top-tier shows.
With its wooden pew seating and unmatched acoustics, this historic venue feels both intimate and electric—don’t miss the backstage tour where you can walk through the dressing rooms of country legends!
18. Experience Beale Street in Memphis

Beale Street is the beating heart of Memphis nightlife, lined with neon-lit blues clubs, soul food joints and street performers playing everything from jazz to rock.
Grab some ribs at B.B. King’s Blues Club, explore live music venues like Rum Boogie Café and soak up the music scene that made Memphis famous.
19. Attend the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival

Held every June on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Bonnaroo is a four-day festival packed with music, art and camping.
With over 150 performances spanning rock, hip-hop, EDM and more, plus quirky attractions like silent discos and giant water slides, it’s an unforgettable experience where anything goes!
Unforgettable Tennessee Attractions
20. Ride the Incline Railway in Chattanooga

The Incline Railway climbs Lookout Mountain at a jaw-dropping 72.7% grade, making it the world’s steepest passenger railway!
As you ride to the top, you’ll get sweeping views of the Tennessee Valley, and once you’re there, you can explore historic sites like Point Park and enjoy panoramic vistas.
21. Tour the Parthenon in Nashville

Nashville’s Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the original in Athens, complete with a 42-foot statue of Athena covered in gold leaf!
Located in Centennial Park, this architectural wonder also houses an art museum, making it a unique spot where ancient Greece meets Tennessee.
22. Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad takes you on a scenic ride through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, with options like steam-powered trains and themed journeys (hello, Polar Express!).
Enjoy the slow-paced views of rivers, valleys and forests as the train winds through tunnels and over bridges—great for a family day trip or a romantic escape.
23. Visit Dollywood in Pigeon Forge

At Dollywood, you’ll find thrilling roller coasters, live music shows and Southern-style food all wrapped in Dolly Parton’s signature charm.
From heart-racing rides like the Lightning Rod coaster to the mouth watering cinnamon bread at the Grist Mill, this theme park is a must-visit!
24. Wander through the historic district of Franklin

The Historic District of Franklin feels like stepping back in time with charming brick sidewalks, Civil War landmarks and beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings.
Stroll down Main Street to browse boutiques, enjoy a meal at cozy cafés, or visit the Lotz House and Carter House, both steeped in Civil War history.
25. See the historic Fort Donelson

Fort Donelson in Dover is where a major Union victory during the Civil War took place, marking a turning point in the war.
Explore the preserved earthworks, visit the cannons overlooking the Cumberland River and stop by the visitor center to hear stories of the battle that earned Ulysses S. Grant the nickname “Unconditional Surrender.”
26. Tour Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg

A visit to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the world’s most famous Tennessee whiskey is made.
Located in the dry town of Lynchburg, the tour takes you through the charcoal mellowing process, past the natural spring cave and ends with a tasting session.
(Even though Lynchburg is a dry town, tastings at the distillery are permitted.)
27. Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in Pigeon Forge

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel offers a bird’s-eye view of Pigeon Forge and the surrounding Smoky Mountains from 200 feet up in the air!
Each gondola is enclosed and climate-controlled, making it a fun ride year-round—especially at night when the wheel lights up with dazzling LED patterns.
28. Walk across the Walnut Street Bridge

The Walnut Street Bridge in Chattanooga is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the U.S., stretching across the Tennessee River and offering unbeatable views of the skyline and surrounding mountains.
It’s the perfect spot for a stroll, with access to Coolidge Park, local art sculptures and plenty of photo ops along the way!
29. Explore the Chattanooga Riverwalk

The Chattanooga Riverwalk is a 16-mile scenic path that winds along the Tennessee River, perfect for biking, walking or just soaking in the views.
Start downtown near the Tennessee Aquarium, grab a snack at a riverside café and follow the path past parks, public art and peaceful waterfront areas ideal for a picnic.
Unique Tennessee Experiences
30. Drive the Tail of the Dragon

The Tail of the Dragon is an epic 11-mile stretch of road on the Tennessee-North Carolina border with 318 sharp curves that’ll put your driving (or motorcycling) skills to the test!
Surrounded by dense forest and free of intersections, it’s a bucket-list ride for sure—just be ready for some white-knuckle turns!
31. Stay in a cozy cabin in Gatlinburg

There’s nothing like staying in a cozy cabin in Gatlinburg, where you can wake up to misty mountain views, sip coffee on a private deck and relax by a crackling fireplace.
Many cabins come with hot tubs, game rooms or even panoramic windows—perfect for couples, families or anyone craving a peaceful retreat after exploring the Smokies.
32. See the fireflies at Elkmont

Every summer, the forests of Elkmont in the Great Smoky Mountains light up with a dazzling display of fireflies—a rare phenomenon where thousands of fireflies blink in unison.
It’s a magical experience that draws visitors from all over the world, but since it’s super popular, make sure to enter the lottery for tickets early!
33. Check out the Peabody Ducks in Memphis

The Peabody Ducks have been marching through the lobby of the Peabody Hotel in Memphis for nearly 90 years, and it’s as quirky as it sounds!
Every day at 11 AM and 5 PM, the ducks waddle down a red carpet to the fountain, complete with music and a crowd cheering them on—it’s a must-see Memphis tradition!
34. Visit the Bigfoot Adventure in Tracy City
At Bigfoot Adventure in Tracy City, you can unleash your inner adventurer with zip lines, obstacle courses and disc golf—all in the shadow of Tennessee’s most legendary creature.
Whether you’re flying through the trees or hunting for clues on the Bigfoot Discovery Trail, it’s the perfect blend of thrills and mystery for both kids and adults!
35. Take part in the Tennessee State Fair

The Tennessee State Fair is a can’t-miss event packed with carnival rides, livestock shows, live music and all the fried food you could dream of.
Held every fall, the fair also features unusual competitions—like mule pulls and pie contests—so bring your appetite and enjoy a day of family-friendly fun!
36. Learn about history in Oak Ridge

Oak Ridge, known as the “Secret City,” played a key role in the Manhattan Project, and you can dive into this fascinating history at the American Museum of Science and Energy.
Explore interactive exhibits on nuclear science, take a bus tour of historic sites and see how this once top-secret town helped shape the modern world.
37. Go stargazing at Pickett CCC Memorial State Park
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park has been designated as Tennessee’s first official Dark Sky Park with crystal-clear views of the Milky Way and constellations.
Bring a blanket and gaze up at the night sky, or time your visit for a stargazing event where rangers set up telescopes to help you spot planets and shooting stars!
Food & Drink
38. Eat hot chicken at Prince’s in Nashville

A trip to Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack is a fiery rite of passage, where you can dig into the dish that put Nashville on the map!
Whether you go for mild or brave the extra-hot level, expect crispy fried chicken slathered in spicy seasoning and served with white bread and pickles.
39. Savor a moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg

In Gatlinburg, enjoy a moonshine tasting at popular distilleries like Ole Smoky or Sugarlands, where you’ll sample everything from classic white lightning to fruity flavors like apple pie and peach.
Sip responsibly, as the tastings can sneak up on you—but don’t forget to grab a jar to take home for a taste of Tennessee!
40. Take a food tour in Knoxville’s Market Square

Market Square in Knoxville is the perfect place to enjoy the city’s food scene while learning a bit of local history.
Stroll through this lively square with a guide, sampling everything from Southern biscuits to international flavors, and finish with dessert at a local bakery or ice cream shop!
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