If you’re after a road trip with gorgeous waterfalls, sweet wine tastings, and trails where you might spot a deer or even a llama, Tennessee’s got you covered.
This is an adventure packed with swimming holes, mountaintop views, and plenty of places to relax with a glass of something tasty.
Along the way, you’ll also stumble across unique gems and one seriously cool underground surprise that’ll have you snapping photos every five seconds.
So get ready to explore the wild, weird, and wonderful side of the Volunteer State.
1. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park sits right along the Mississippi River, only 25 minutes from downtown Memphis.
This massive park spans 12,539 acres with thick hardwood forests, peaceful lakes, and over 20 miles of trails, including the Chickasaw Bluff Trail.
It’s also a favorite for wildlife lovers, where tons of deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles, and the occasional bobcat roam freely.
And when you’re ready for the water, the 125-acre Poplar Tree Lake is perfect for paddling and fishing, stocked with bass, catfish, and bluegill.
2. Radnor Lake State Park
Next up is Radnor Lake State Park, a peaceful escape just 3.5 hours from Meeman-Shelby Forest.
Here, you’ll find quiet beauty across 1,368 protected acres and a 1.35-mile lake trail that’s easy, shaded, and full of wildlife.
You can’t bike or run on most trails here, which keeps it super calm for spotting otters, barred owls, and maybe a mink.
As for Radnor Lake itself, it stretches 85 acres and looks especially dreamy in the early morning when fog drifts across the water.
3. Arrington Vineyards
Just 30 minutes from Radnor Lake, Arrington Vineyards is where you trade hiking boots for a wine glass.
Co-founded by country music artist Kix Brooks, this place covers 95 rolling acres of grapevines, picnic spots, and sunset views.
You can sample award-winning wines like their Cabernet Sauvignon or the popular Stag’s White, then kick back on the hillside.
Bring your own snacks or grab a cheese board, then enjoy a slow afternoon among the vineyards and wide-open scenery.
4. Cummins Falls State Park
Ready to cool off?
Cummins Falls State Park in Cookeville is home to one of the state’s most-loved swimming holes, and yes, it totally lives up to the hype.
To reach the base of the 75-foot waterfall, you’ll hike 3 miles round-trip on a trail that’s steep, rocky, and sure to get you wet (which is half the fun).
You’ll need a Gorge Access Permit to go all the way down, but the reward is splashing around in clear, cold water right below the falls.
5. Stonehaus Winery
Once you’ve dried off and hit the road again, swing by Stonehaus Winery in Crossville for a little taste of the Cumberland Plateau.
It’s a family-owned spot that’s been making wine for over 30 years, known for fruity favorites like Blackberry Summer and Red Muscadine.
Their tasting room is totally free and super laid-back, plus they’ve got a gift shop stocked with cheese and homemade fudge.
If you’re into sweet wines and Southern charm, this is a no-brainer stop with big flavor and zero fuss.
6. Fall Creek Falls State Park
A 45-minute drive from Crossville, Fall Creek Falls State Park is the kind of place that takes your breath away the moment you arrive.
It’s home to Fall Creek Falls, which plunges 256 feet and holds the title of the tallest free-fall waterfall in the entire eastern U.S.
The park itself spans more than 29,000 acres, featuring swinging suspension bridges and the 2.7-mile Gorge Overlook Trail with nonstop views.
You can hike, swim, paddle, or spend the day chasing waterfalls, because six major ones make this place unforgettable.
7. Ruby Falls
From sky-high falls to underground wonders, Ruby Falls in Chattanooga takes the waterfall game to a whole new level (literally).
This 145-foot waterfall sits inside Lookout Mountain, and the only way to see it is by descending 260 feet in an elevator and passing through a cave of wild rock formations.
The guided tour lasts about an hour, leading you through colorful lights and narrow tunnels before the falls finally appear glowing in the dark.
It’s touristy, sure, but it’s also one of those only-in-Tennessee stops you’ve gotta see at least once.
8. Smoky Mountain Llama Treks
After exploring underground, head out for one last adventure with a llama by your side.
In Cosby, Smoky Mountain Llama Treks lets you hike scenic forest trails while a llama tags along to carry your gear (and steal the show).
They’ve got several options, including a short wooded walk that’s perfect for families and full of photo-worthy moments.
Fun fact: Each llama has its own name and personality, from chill ones like Curly to big ones like White Lightening, and they’re every bit as soft and huggable as they look.
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