15 Most Aesthetic Places in Tennessee for a Dreamy Getaway
Tennessee is a beautiful state with stunning landscapes, quaint little towns, and postcard-perfect hidden gems.
And with everything from misty mountain views to quaint streets lined with historic buildings, this state has a picturesque destination around every corner.
Tennessee has it all, whether you seek vibrant fall foliage, dreamy waterfalls or cozy cabins.
Well if you have a trip planned in the future and want to get additional places added to your itinerary while driving around the state, here are 15 of the most aesthetically pleasing places you need to check out.
1. Cades Cove – Moody Mountain Escape
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains, Cades Cove is a stunning valley that is flanked by rolling mountains.
Mornings here are usually wrapped in a haze of dreamy mist, creating the perfect photo backdrop.
Wildlife, rustic cabins and old churches greet drivers on the scenic loop, adding to its timelessness.
In the autumn, the golden and red leaves make the view even more enchanting.
It’s one of the best places in Tennessee for a quiet retreat into nature.
2. Clingmans Dome — A Cloud-Catching Sunset View
Clingmans Dome, at 6,643 feet, is the highest point in Tennessee — and boasts breathtaking panoramic views.
At the summit, the observation tower is dreamlike, layers of mountains fading into infinity.
Sunrise and sunset here are sheer magic, the peaks warmed with golden glows of light.
On clear days, the view reaches up to seven states from the top.
A brief but steep hike leads to this iconic viewpoint — every step’s worth it.
3. The Lost Sea — An Underground Marvel
Underneath Sweetwater, Tennessee, is the largest underground lake in the United States.
The Lost Sea is a luminescent, otherworldly body of water concealed inside a massive cave.
Boat tours carry you across the underground lake, and the reflections give it an almost hallucinatory effect.
Inside the cave, fascinating rock formations and artifacts tell the story.
If you love interesting and mysterious places, this has to be on the list.
4. Lookout Mtn. — Tennessee’s Skyline
Lookout Mountain provides panoramic vistas of Chattanooga and beyond.
One of its most popular attractions, Rock City, is a fanciful garden populated with enormous rock formations and clusters of flowers.
On a clear day, you can see seven states from Lover’s Leap, making it a dreamy spot for photos.
Underground waterfalls at Ruby Falls add to the mountain, making when you visit even more magical.
Every turn in this part of the world is postcard material.
5. Roan Mountain — A Summer Sea of Blooms
Come June, Roan Mountain becomes a storybook landscape.
The famed rhododendron gardens burst into color, pink and purple dotting the rolling hills.
It’s a hotspot for hiking, with the Appalachian Trail running through the area.
Even in winter, it has a magical, enchanted quality that’s evident in the frosted trees or the foggy peaks.
Every nature lover and photographer in all the world must come visit.
6. Leiper’s Fork – A Quaint Southern Town
Leiper’s Fork is a small but oh-so-cute little spot outside of Nashville.
It’s brimming with rustic barns, vintage shops and cozy cafes that seem straight out of a storybook.
The sound of local music wafts from scenic venues, making the whole town feel warm and welcoming.
The town shines at night with twinkling lights everywhere and the evening time here becomes aesthetically pleasant.
Ideal for a slow-paced getaway with a dash of southern charm.
7. Fall Creek Falls – A Beautiful Waterfall Getaway
In the eastern U.S., Fall Creek Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls, and a true natural wonder.
The mighty cascade plummets 256 feet into the green basin below.
The surrounding state park, filled with scenic overlooks, hiking trails and hidden swimming holes.
With dreamy, soft mist from the falls providing perfect light for photos.
A tranquil getaway in Tennessee’s wilderness.
8. The Peabody Hotel Rooftop: A Memphis View with Glamor
For an urban aesthetic, the Peabody Hotel in Memphis is an iconic destination.
The rooftop bar has expansive views of the Mississippi River that are especially beautiful at sunset.
Inside, the hotel has a famous duck march in its grand lobby, an endearing and genteel tradition.
The vintage decor and chandeliers, plus old-world romance, are definitely worth a visit.
If you want a classy, aesthetic place in the city, THIS IS IT.
9. Twin Falls – Diamond in the Rough in Rock Island State Park
Hidden inside Rock Island State Park, Twin Falls is an unexpected gem of natural beauty.
Even water splashes over the side of a cliff rather than the top, producing an unusual waterfall.
The rock formations and forested area surrounding it create an untamed, mystical feeling.
Mist rises from the falls in the morning, adding to its beauty.
A dreamy place that seems pulled from the pages of a fantasy novel.
10. A Piece of Greece – The Parthenon in Nashville
Nashville, yes, has a full-blown replica of the Parthenon!
This architectural marvel located in Centennial Park is not to be missed!
Set amid a reflective pond, it’s especially beautiful at night, when it’s all glowing.
Inside, a huge golden statue of Athena lends it gravitas.
An ideal blend of tradition, style and beauty.
11. Gatlinburg SkyBridge: A Walk Above the Clouds
North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge is the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.
It rises to 1,800 feet above sea level and has unmatched views of the Smoky Mountains.
A glass section in the center allows you to look straight down — a thrilling and scenic ride.
In autumn the trees turn from deep green into bouquets of color making the entire vista appear painted.
Recommended for adventure or photography lovers.
12. Percy Priest Lake – An Oasis on the Water
Near Nashville, Percy Priest Lake is a quiet refuge from city life.
Through the mountains, turquoise-water, contrast beautifully with the surrounding forests.
There are secluded inlets, ragged shores and charming islands suited for kayaking.
Sunsets here are gorgeous, filling the water with shades of gold.
An oasis from urban life that is both relaxing and aesthetic.
13. Bald River Falls – A Roadside Waterfall Wonder
One of the most accessible and beautiful waterfalls in Tennessee.
Bald River Falls is literally right off the road, so it is very easy to visit.
The waterfall offers a dreamy misty waterfall effect, particularly stunning in winter when it freezes.
In summer, the greenery surrounding it makes for a picture-perfect nature getaway.
A must-see if you love waterfalls but also don’t want to hike for miles.
14. A Secret Forest Gem: Sewanee’s Natural Bridge
Nestled within the town of Sewanee, this naturally formed sandstone bridge is a gem.
The moss-covered rocks and tall trees create a serene, fairytale environment.
A short trail takes you to the bridge, making it an easy detour for a quick adventure.
The ideal time to visit is in the morning, when delicate light slips through the trees.
It’s a quiet, magical place that seems like it belongs to another world.
15. Blue Ridge Parkway – The Great Scenic Road
Though it technically extends into North Carolina, the Tennessee part of the Blue Ridge Parkway is pure magic.
Twisting mountain roads, hazy valleys and endless overlooks make it an aesthetic ideal.
Drives along this route at sunrise and sunset are particularly stunning.
In fall, the bright red and orange foliage create an unparalleled sight.
Ideal for lovers of scenic roads and breathtaking scenery.
