15 Fun Things to Do in Tennessee: From Mountains to Music City
Tennessee is a bounty of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty.
From the foggy peaks of the Smoky Mountains to the bustling avenues of Music City and Memphis (and everywhere in between), Tennessee is sure to have appeal for the whole family.
From music lovers to foodies to those who just love being outside, this state provides countless experiences you won’t forget.
So if you are planning a trip, check out these 15 epic things to do in Tennessee so that your visit is unforgettable!
1. Visit Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains
Cades Cove, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is one of the park’s most beautiful areas.
The 11-mile loop leads you through verdant meadows, rolling hills and historic log cabins.
Wildlife spotting is a cinch — deer, black bears, and wild turkeys wander freely.
With early morning fog forming a magical light and dreamy environment, this place is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
2. Redefining “amusement” at Dollywood
Dollywood is more than a theme park; it’s a tribute to Southern culture and Dolly Parton’s heritage.
From exhilarating roller coasters to live country music, there is something for everyone.
During Smoky Mountain Christmas, the park becomes a winter wonderland.
In spring, colorful floral sculptures and delicious eats fill the park for the Flower & Food Festival.
Dollywood always serves up an unforgettable experience, no matter what time you visit.
3. Walk the Gatlinburg SkyBridge
Gatlinburg SkyBridge is one of the most stunning viewing points in Tennessee
Spanning 680 feet over the mountains, it’s the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Part of the bridge has glass panels that allow you to see straight down.
In the fall, the surrounding forest erupts in orange, red, and gold colors.
However, the best time to visit is at sunset, when the sky sweetly glows with pinks and purples.
4. Explore The Lost Sea, The Country’s Largest Underground Lake
Underneath Sweetwater, Tenn., sits The Lost Sea, the largest underground lake in America.
The guided tour walks you through caves with giant rock formations that lead to a hidden lake.
The boat ride across the crystal-clear underground river gives the place a fantasy novel feel.
If hidden gems and cave adventures are your thing, be sure to stop by.
5. Lookout Mountain: Enjoy the View
There are some of the most beautiful panoramic views in Tennessee atop Lookout Mountain.
From this magnificent vantage point at Rock City, you can see seven states.
An underground waterfall inside a cave, Ruby Falls, adds even more adventure.
For a hair-raising trip, ride the Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger railways in the world.
It’s an ideal combination of nature, adventure and history.
6. Get in on the Energy on Broadway, Nashville
Broadway is the center of Nashville’s nightlife and live music scene.
The streets are lined with honky-tonk bars where you can hear the sounds of American country music.
And, whether you’re a country fan or not, the electric atmosphere is contagious.
Rooftop bars provide a spectacular view of the hard-hitting nightlife, a perfect place for a night on the town.
No visit to Tennessee would be complete without taking in Broadway’s legendary music scene.
7. Take a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland
For fans of music, Graceland in Memphis is a bucket-list destination.
Visit Elvis Presley’s mansion, gold records, iconic jumpsuits, and vintage cars.
At the Meditation Garden, the final resting place of Elvis, a spot to reflect on his legacy.
A look at his private jet, the Lisa Marie, provides a window into his extravagant life.
Even if you’re not a big Elvis fan, the history and nostalgia are well worth a visit.
8. Walk the Laurel Falls Trail in the Smoky Mountains
A popular hike for all skill levels, Laurel Falls is an easy yet satisfying trek.
The 2.6-mile round-trip paved trail leads to a spectacular 80-foot waterfall.
In spring and summer, the path is bordered with wildflowers.
The waterfall creates a mist that fills the air and makes for a nice spot to cool down.
If you like a scenic hike, minus the strenuous climb, this is for you.
9. Cruise the Tennessee River on a riverboat
Travel back in time aboard a riverboat cruise in Chattanooga or Knoxville.
Paddlewheel boats cruise the Tennessee River, revealing mountains and city skylines.
And some cruises feature live music and Southern-style meals as well as sunset tours.
Perhaps embark on a fall foliage cruise, for an extra special experience when trees are popping with color.
It’s a quiet and picturesque method of seeing Tennessee from the water.
10. Tastin’ Those Good Ol’ Mountain Dew: Go Whiskey Tasting On The Tennessee Whiskey Trail
Famous for its whiskey, Tennessee has the ultimate trail to follow.
The most famous stop, Jack Daniel’s in Lynchburg, leads behind the scenes for tastings and tours.
Small distilleries such as George Dickel and Corsair produce distinct, small-batch whiskey with strong flavor.
Each stop offers a peek into Tennessee’s rich distilling heritage.
If you’re a fan of good drinks and storytelling, this trail is for you.
11. Stay Around to Watch the Sunset at Percy Priest Lake
A few miles from Nashville, Percy Priest Lake is a peaceful retreat from urbanity.
Kayak on placid waters as the sky transitions from pink, to orange and purple.
A fun day of exploring can include hidden coves and small islands.
The shoreline is nice for picnicking, fishing, and lounging.
This lake is an ideal escape if you want to be in nature, but away from it all.
12. Explore One of Downtown Franklin’s Unique Boutiques
Franklin, just south of Nashville, is one of the most charming small towns in Tennessee.
Its historic Main Street has vintage boutiques cozy cafés and bookstores.
Live music wafts through the air, contributing to the town’s cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Factory at Franklin has indoor market space, local artisans, and great food.
If you’re obsessed with charming, character-filled towns, then Franklin is where you need to be.
13. Take a ghost tour in Memphis or Chattanooga
Tennessee is steeped in ghostly history, and ghost tours make it come alive.
Memphis has ghostly walking tours of Beale Street and historic mansions.
In Chattanooga, ghost tours take visitors through underground tunnels and haunted hotels.
Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, the deep history with so many layers makes these tours a fascinating excursion.
It’s a fun and creepy way to learn about Tennessee’s history.
14. Visit the Birthplace of Country Music in Bristol
Bristol is the official Birthplace of Country Music.
The town’s museum recounts the history of the first country music recordings in 1927.
Bristol is a city of music history, murals, and live music in its downtown.
The Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Festival bursts onto the town every September.
For fans of country music, Bristol is a hidden destination worth the trip.
15. Drive the Natchez Trace Parkway
One of the most beautiful drives in the South is the Natchez Trace Parkway.
It traces a route through rolling hills, forests, and historic sites dating to Native American days.
The two best times of the year to visit are spring (when the land is lush) and fall (when everything groans from the color of autumn).
And, there are plenty of scenic overlooks and picnic spots along the way.
If you’re a road trip lover, this is one of the most scenic drives in Tennessee.
