Tennessee

Top 13+ Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Tennessee

Tennessee, nicknamed The Volunteer State, sure has a lot of places to see and visit. When browsing through some of the most amazing pictures I was surely amazed with how many awesome sites I still have to visit in this state!

1. Lover’s Leap

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Lover’s Leap

Tennessee is home to some beautiful natural sights, but perhaps the best of the lot can be found at Lover’s Leap, which is where you can spot seven differed states – how many can you see? The rare white Fallow deer can also be seen within the Rock City attraction, but for the best views of the land surrounding Lookout Mountain visitors will have to be brave enough to cross the Swing-A-Long bridge. From Lover’s Leap you will, on a clear day, be able to see Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama and the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. If you squint, you might just make out Kentucky and Virginia too – a great test for the eyes.

2. Great Smoky Mountain National Park

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina is the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which is the most visited national park in the States. Biking, hiking, fishing and camping are among the many leisure activities available within the grounds of the park, while Cades Cove – which we will come to later in this list – is the single most frequented destination in the national park. Horseback Riding and picnicking are among the most popular activities in the park, which has two main visitors’ centers: Sugarlands Visitors’ Center and Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

3. Big South Fork National River

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Big South Fork National River

Covering a massive 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau, the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the whole of Tennessee. There is a huge array of scenic gorges and sandstone bluffs to explore in the park, which has a rich and diverse history dating back for 10,000 years. With five camping grounds, any happy camper visiting during a trip to Tennessee is well catered for, while taking a dip at Bandy Creek Swimming Pool is also a must during a visit to the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

4. Rainbow Hall

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Rock City Trail Near Chattanooga

No trip experiencing the nature of Tennessee would be complete without taking in the amazing sight of Rainbow Hall, which can be found at Rock City. For anyone who has ever wondered what Chattanooga would look like with purple or green air, Rainbow Hall provides the unforgettable answer to that question. Rainbow Hall has been made possible by windows covered in coloured gel, providing a completely unique way to take in the simply stunning scenery of Tennessee.

5. Rock Island State Park

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Rock Island State Park

As far as beautiful places to visit in Tennessee go, Rock Island State Park is right up there at the top. The Great Falls Gorge is one of the main natural and historical features of the park, which also boasts Twin Falls, a cascade waterfall spilling down from an underground cavern into the park’s Caney Fork. The 883-acre park can be found on the headwaters of Center Hill Lake and there is no doubt that the scenery on show is among the finest on the Eastern Highland Rim.

6. Burgess Falls State Park

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Burgess Falls State Park

The waterfalls at Burgess Falls State Park are some of the most beautiful sights in Tennessee. Located on the Falling Water River, fishing and picnicking are some of the most popular activities at the park. To see the most impressive of the waterfalls within the grounds of the park, the best trail to take is the 1.5-mile round-trip River Trail/Service Road Loop, which is of moderate difficulty. The half-mile Ridge Top Trail is also well worth taking on for the stunning views down the Falling Water River.

7. Gatlinburg

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Gatlinburg

During winter in Tennessee, there is nowhere more beautiful to visit than the mountain resort of Gatlinburg. From November to February the town is lit up by stunning environmentally-friendly displays, with unique LED lighting displays along Gatlinburg’s famous Downtown Parkway, adjacent River Road, among the most impressive of the sights on offer. Great Smoky Mountains National Park animals such as deer, foxes, squirrels and rabbits make up a part of the lighting displays, while a shiny rocking horse and dancing fountains can also be spotted. Ober Gatlinburg is Tennessee’s only ski resort, while Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a popular attraction too.

8. Hurricane Mills

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Old Mill At Loretta Lynn’s Ranch

Hurricane Mills – the home of Loretta Lynn’s ranch – is one of Tennessee’s most popular tourist attractions. Loretta Lynn’s Coal Miner’s Daughter Museum is one of the main things to do, while the area also plays hosts to several concerts and motocross races, the highlight of which is probably the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship. Loretta Lynn’s ranch is arguably even more beautiful in its own way than Graceland, with Hurricane Mills also home to one of the most famous haunted houses in the region – dare you check it out?

9. Signal Mountain

Source: Melinda Fawver

Signal Mountain

Not only is Signal Mountain one of Tennessee’s most beautiful places to visit, it is certainly one of the state’s most historic locations too. Signal Point was originally used by Native Americans to send messages and today, the views from the top, looking over the Tennessee River Valley and the City of Chattanooga, are among the most unforgettable in the States. Nearby places of interest include the Tennessee Riverfront and Aquarium, the Hunter Museum of Art and the Chattanooga Choo Choo, as well as all the many attractions of downtown Chattanooga.

10. Minister’s House in Crossville

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Minister’s House, Crossville

The Minister’s House in Crossville is definitely one of the most quirky places in Tennessee, as well as boasting the unenviable (unofficial) title of being the tallest treehouse in the world. Built by Horace Burgess, the treehouse became an internet sensation which means people travel many miles to see it for themselves. Around 1,000 people visited the treehouse a week at the height of its popularity, with 11 years of hard work having gone into the creation of the unique building.

11. Dollywood Express Steam Train

Source: Edward C. Denny / Wikimedia

Dollywood Express Steam Train

To experience the breathtaking scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains, there are few better journeys than the Dollywood Express Steam Train, a 20-minute mountain excursion providing some of the most beautiful views of anywhere in the United States, let alone in the state of Tennessee. The theme park the railway is a part of was renamed Dollywood in the 1980s after singer Dolly Parton purchased a part-stake in the park. In a typical season, around three million people visit Dollywood, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Tennessee.

12. Cade’s Cove

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Cade’s Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Among the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies, Cade’s Cove is arguably the most beautiful spot anywhere in the state of Tennessee. The isolated valley attracts more than two million visitors a year, with a trip around Cade’s Cove taking between two to four hours by car at a leisurely pace – it is also permitted to cycle through Cade’s Cove, with bikes available to rent too. White-tailed deer are among the wildlife that can be spotted at Cade’s Cove, as well as black bears, coyotes, skunks, groundhogs and many, many other types of animals. The Cades Cove Historic District is, quite rightly, included on the National Register of Historic Places.

13. Cumberland Caverns

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Cumberland Caverns

One of the longest caves in the whole world, Cumberland Caverns is a must for anyone seeking a truly unique experience during their visit to Tennessee. Year-round commercial tours of the cave are available through the Cumberland Caverns company, while there is also the chance to go spelunking or even host a wedding party in the cave system. In total, there are well over 30 miles of caves and underground passageways to explore a Cumberland Caverns.

14. Abandoned Tennessee State Penitentiary

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Abandoned Tennessee State Penitentiary

The old Tennessee State Prison is one of the most beautiful buildings in Tennessee, as well as one of the most physically imposing. The prison has been closed since 1992 but in the last two decades it has grown into one of the state’s most popular strange tourist attractions. The Green Mile, Attica, and The Last Castle are among the movies to have had some scenes filmed at the old Tennessee State Prison. A tour of the abandoned building even provides the chance to experience the eerie site of the prison’s old Death Row. The prison can be found just a few miles to the west of Nashville and is one of the spookiest and most memorable days out in the state.

15. Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hiking fanatics will find few better places to visit in Tennessee than the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With 850 miles of trails and unpaved roads to cover, there is so much to see and do for walking enthusiasts. Alum Cave Bluffs and Arch Rock are among the must-see sights within the grounds of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while experienced hikers can even take on the third highest summit in the park, Mount Le Conte. The mountain is famous for having the highest inn that offers lodging for visitors of anywhere in the Eastern United States.

Top 12+ Best Water Parks in Tennessee

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For a memorable getaway for yourself or the whole family, look no further than Tennessee. The cool, clear waters of pristine lakes, beautiful countryside scenery as well as high thrills and wet spills await. Whether it’s summer or winter, you can be sure to find a waterpark that’s just right for you.

Some are open seasonally so you can take advantage of the heat to enjoy cooling down on great rides and clear waters, while others are indoor and are always just the right temperature for a fun filled day that’s sure to have people of all ages coming back time and again.

1. Dollywood’s Splash Country, Great Smoky Mountains

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Dollywood’s Splash Country, Great Smoky Mountains

With huge, thrilling rides and slides as well as cool waters and great kiddie areas, Dollywood’s Splash Country is the place to be. For adrenaline junkies there’s the Fire Tower Falls, the park’s tallest and fastest slide featuring high speed, vertical drops. The Butterfly is anything but meek- these extreme slides are sure to get your heart pounding. Visit the Mountain Scream and take your pick from one of four huge twisting, turning, drop slides. Zoom down the SwiftWater run where you’ll be catapulted into a giant bowl before hitting the waters below. Families will love the RiverRush water coaster, and the white water raft rides on the Raging River Rapids and the Big Bear Plunge. The park also has mat racers, a huge kiddie area complete with play structure and huge dumping bucket, a fifteen hundred foot long lazy river, tots area, activity pool and a giant wave pool. When you’re ready to dry off, tons of dry land fun await at the theme park. The resort offers great accommodations so be sure to make it a vacation destination.

2.Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort, Hermitage

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Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort, Hermitage

Situated on the shores of the beautiful Percy Priest Lake, Nashville Shores offers breathing scenery and water filled fun for the whole family. Over one million gallons of water makes the water park a perfect place to get soaked. Keep cool in the majestic waves of the large wave pool or relax down the long, winding lazy river. If adrenaline is what you’re after, the eight heart pounding slides will leave you smiling all day long. Visit the Kowabunga Beach, the massive water treehouse and playground made just for kids. Tons of dryland fun await at Treetop Adventure Park, where you can take to the sky on the exciting zip lines. The resort has camping sites and cabin rentals available, perfect for your vacation!

3. Wetlands Water Park, Jonesborough

Wetlands Water Park, Jonesborough

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Wetlands Water Park, Jonesborough

Grab your bathing suit and come check out the cool, clear waters of Wetlands Water Park. For adventure seekers, the park has three exciting slides; one, one hundred foot flume, an eighty foot enclosed flume and a giant two hundred foot flume. For smaller riders there’s the children’s otter slide and zero depth entry pool as well an exciting rain tree. If you’re in the mood to soak up the rays and kick back, grab a tube and drift down the lay river. The park comes complete with a café and also has a sand volleyball court for more dryland fun.

4. Wildwater Rafting – Pigeon River, Hartford

Wildwater Rafting - Pigeon River, Hartford

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Wildwater Rafting – Pigeon River, Hartford

While it’s really not a waterpark, and definitely not for the faint of heart, if you’re in Tennessee, you should give Wildwater Rafting a go. For ages five on up, Wildwater is an experience not to be missed. Soar down the heart racing, beautiful rapids and enjoy the splendor and majesty of nature. There’s more than just rafting in store at the park. Pack a picnic and visit one of the great picnic shelters. There’s volleyball, a climbing wall and zip lines for tons of exciting dry land adventures.

5. Kingsport Aquatic Center, Kingsport

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Kingsport Aquatic Center, Kingsport

For year round fun, visit Kingsport Aquatic Center. The Center is home to an outdoor waterpark as well as crystal clear indoor pools. Open seasonally, the outdoor park offers everything for a day filled with fun, sun and relaxation including two huge slides and a nine hundred foot long lazy river. Indoor, the center features three heated pools including an Olympic sized pool for recreational swimming and fitness classes. Don’t miss the Aqua Run Inflatable course!

6. Cumberland Park, Nashville

Cumberland Park, Nashville

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Cumberland Park, Nashville

Situated along the beautiful Nashville riverfront area is the exciting, new Cumberland Park. The six and a half acre park includes a water splash area with unique play structures and squirting features, an outdoor amphitheater which can fit up to twelve hundred people, and a huge climbing wall. There’s also The Hollow, a unique wave shaped playground with activities, sand, mazes, see saws and an interactive splashpad. Don’t miss the Explorer Trail, a beautiful path made of crushed stone that lets you take in all the beautiful scenery the park has to offer. It was designed to attract butterflies so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.

7. Kirkpatrick Sprayground, Nashville

Kirkpatrick Sprayground, Nashville

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Kirkpatrick Sprayground, Nashville

Open seasonally, the Kirkpatrick Sprayground is sure to delight people of all ages. Get wet and have a blast in the interactive water features, the spraying features, and jets. Suitable for even the smallest water lovers, the Sprayground will keep you cooled down and having fun all day.

8. Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa, Gatlinburg

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Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa, Gatlinburg

For tons of all day fun where the weather is always just right, visit Wild Bear Falls sixty thousand square foot indoor water park. Relax in the rambling lazy river or just lounge by the pool. Rocket down the giant slides, splash in the cool waters of the pool or visit the huge kiddie area that features an awesome treehouse activity structure. There’s also a great café, perfect for when you get hungry. The resort offers beautiful accommodations and a great spa and fitness center if the waterpark isn’t your thing.

9. Quality Inn & Suites West Waterpark, Knoxville

Quality Inn & Suites West Waterpark, Knoxville

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Quality Inn & Suites West Waterpark, Knoxville

With modern rooms and a full continental breakfast, as well as an awesome waterpark, Quality Inn is the place to book for your vacation. The giant, clear pool offers great opportunities to relax, splash, and swim for hours. The pool is heated so the water will always be just right. If you came to kick back, slide into the warm, soothing waters of the hot tub. Just for kids there’s the beautiful shallow kiddie area complete with huge play structure and tons of interactive features, sure to delight for hours.

10. Wave Country- Wave Pool, Nashville

Wave Country- Wave Pool, Nashville

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Wave Country- Wave Pool, Nashville

For a day filled with wild splashes, visit Wave Country. The park has everything you could want to cool down and make memories. The wave pool features awesome swells and calm periods alike. For action and adventure, swirl down one of the park’s five thrilling slides. There are three flume slides and two speed slides. Just for the kids, there’s a kiddie pool and a huge playground with interactive water features. The park does allow coolers, just no glass containers or alcohol, but there is also a concession. You are also allowed to bring your own chairs or a pop up tent if you want to soak up the sun or sit in the shade.

11. Patterson Park Indoor Pool, Murfreesboro

Patterson Park Indoor Pool, Murfreesboro

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Patterson Park Indoor Pool, Murfreesboro

With a host of activities and slides, the whole family will love Patterson Park Indoor Pool. Spend hours whooshing and zooming down the triple loop water slide. If you came to swim, there’ a four lane lap swimming area. Children of all ages will love the interactive Water Play System and for even the youngest water lovers there’s a zero-depth entry pool. The pool offers fitness classes as well as lap and recreational swims.

12. Collierville Water- Spray Parks, Collierville

Collierville Water- Spray Parks, Collierville

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Collierville Water- Spray Parks, Collierville

Prepare for the majesty of one hundred and thirty-five acres of playgrounds, lakes, spray parks, and ballfields. Enjoy the scenic park and lakes or cool off at the Water Spray area. People of all ages will enjoy all the waterpark has to offer. Poles, arches and other interactive and wet and wild features will make for hours of wet fun. Run through giant sprinklers and have a blast getting soaked. The area is made just for kids but adults will love it as well. Best of all, it’s free.

13. Mud Island River Park, Memphis

Mud Island River Park, Memphis

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Mud Island River Park, Memphis

While it’s not a water park, Mud Island River Park is all about water. Experience all the majesty of the Mississippi River at the Mud Island River Park. The park is complete with a five block long Riverwalk model so you can see the Mississippi River in miniature form. Don’t miss the Mississippi River Museum where you can see two full size paddle boat models. There’s an amphitheatre in the park which hosts concerts and shows throughout the year. If you want to head out on the water, the park offers canoe or kayak rentals. If dryland adventure is more your thing, there are bike rentals as well.

Top 23+ Best Things to Do in Chattanooga (TN)

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Chattanooga, a city in southeastern Tennessee, is set along the Tennessee River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Chattanooga has been named one of the top places to visit in the United States, and for a great reason.

The southern city in Tennessee mixes outdoor adventure with laid-back charm, so you can enjoy a mixture of the two, and so that all of your traveling companions can find something that perfectly suits their tastes. The riverfront, the mountains, the history, the restaurants, the arts…it’s all right there for you to explore.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Chattanooga:

1. Ride the River

The River

It’s hard to visit Chattanooga and not get on the river! It accounts for so much of the city’s character and gorgeous scenery.

There are a ton of options for you to choose from, though, when it comes to how you see the Tennessee River Gorge.

You can easily charter a yacht, rent a party boat (which is a very small boat powered by the sun and pedals, and you and your dozen or so friends are encouraged to come out, drink and pedal all at the same time), take a tour on a speed boat, go rafting, etc.

Though it may be hard to make your decision, you won’t have a hard time finding a recreation company that’ll get you out on the water — there are tons of them and they’re all waiting to cater to visitors’ every need.

2. Take a City Tour

Chattanooga

A great way, of course, to start out any visit to any city is to get a brief overview of the area from a professional.

There are several options for this in Chattanooga, whether you want to be part of a group led by an actual tour guide, or you’d rather have a more private experience with a local.

Whatever your taste, there are also plenty of tour modes of transportation to choose from, whether you want to walk, take a bus or even zip around town on a Segway!

3. Take a Ghost Tour

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Chattanooga Ghost Tours

If you’d prefer your tour to have a little more excitement and maybe something slightly scary, sign up for a ghost tour.

In fact, those provided by Chattanooga Ghost Tours Inc.

, have been named one of the Top 10 ghost tours in the Untied States.

They claim that you’ll actually get to talk to and see ghosts and spirits while on the tour, nightly, in the downtown area of the city.

In addition to the downtown tour (which is open to both adults and kids), other tours take you to a haunted cemetery and tavern.

4. Go to a Whiskey Tasting

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Whiskey Tasting

If you’re going to be in Tennessee, you’re going to need to go to the oldest registered distillery in the United States.

The name’s Jack Daniels, and they still make the entirety of their Tennessee whiskey right there on site.

There are several different tours you can choose from, but all are led by experts with tons of stories to share, while you enjoy a taste of some of the best Tennessee whiskey in the world.

5. Head to the Chattanooga Zoo

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Chattanooga Zoo

Great for travelers with kids (or those that are kids at heart, or who even just want to enjoy a beautiful setting), the Chattanooga Zoo is known as the “Best Little Zoo,” because it makes a real attempt to allow visitors to connect with the animals and the wildlife that they’re seeing, rather than just peering at animals behind plate glass before being hustled along by the crowd.

There are more than 300 animals living there, with more than 200 species, with a fair share of endangered species as well.

However, what’s really going to shock you is the price.

Adults are just $10 a ticket, and kids are just $7, making it by far one of the cheapest zoos in the entire country.

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6. Hike Audubon Acres

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Audubon Acres

If you’d rather get out of the city and see a little nature, but you want to do so in a way that’s totally convenient, maybe try Audubon Acres on for size.

There are more than five miles of hiking trails, making for an easy and not too challenging hike, and there are 130 acres along the South Chickamauga Creek.

The small visitor center has an archaeological museum, and there are even historic spots on the property — such as a a site significant to the Trail of Tears.

Plus, if you visit during the summer, you can hit the creek for canoeing, kayaking and swimming.

7. Stroll Through the Art District

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Art District

If you want to enjoy a nice little slice of Chattanooga neighborhood, go to the Art District, which is easily accessible from downtown.

You’ll not only find what you probably typically think of as art, but also great restaurants and awesome views.

Perched on a hill overlooking the river, you’ll pass lovely handicrafts at various local stores, plenty of mouthwatering treats and even a cute little bed and breakfast.

A small spot, this area of the city is definitely worth visiting, even if it’s just for a few hours in the morning, lunch or a nice walk at night, if you want to stroll a bit before grabbing dinner at one of the district’s quaint restaurants.

8. Walk the River

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Tennessee Riverpark

If you’d rather walk beside of the river, than be on it, you want to go to the Tennessee Riverpark.

One of the best green spaces in the city, it has 10 miles of beautiful waterfront.

You can even hop on one of the piers, if you like to fish, or you can watch the boats come in and out from the boat ramp.

In addition, the park is home to outdoor art pieces, and even a marsh that is great for birdwatching.

The end of the park is right within downtown Chattanooga, and you can take it all the way up to the Chickamauga Dam.

9. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium

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Tennessee Aquarium

You wouldn’t think it, but Tennessee is home to the largest freshwater aquarium in the world, the Tennessee Aquarium.

Built a little over 20 years ago, the attraction is in town parts, one freshwater, and one saltwater.

It’s easily one of the most popular attractions in the city, and has all of the interesting and eclectic sea creatures that you’d expect from a world-class aquarium.

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10. Climb Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain

Just like the river, Lookout Mountain is a can’t-miss when you’re in Chattanooga, as it practically looms over the city and partially separates the state from its southern neighbor, Georgia.

There’s a 4,100-foot-long walking trail with gorgeous landscaping and fantastic views of the entire city and its surroundings, including the river.

In addition, it’s set inside the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, so you can brush up on your Civil War history while you’re there.

This is where you’re going to get the best Instagram photos during your entire trip to Chattanooga, that’s for sure!

11. See Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls

Set inside of Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls is inside a cave and highly fascinating.

Both the waterfalls and the caves are referred to as Ruby Falls, and the cave version is the deepest commercial cave in the country, and also the largest underground waterfall in the country, at 145 feet tall.

Of course, you can’t just go wondering around the caverns underground by yourself, but you can book a guided tour and check out Ruby Falls (both versions) for yourself.

In addition, there’s nearly always some kind of event or special occurrence going on there, so see what’s up before you go and plan to attend if it catches your eye.

12. Walk Walnut Street Bridge

Walnut Street Bridge

Again, Chattanooga sets a record for itself, and it’s both surprising and fascinating to hear.

This time, they boast the longest pedestrian bridge in the world.

It’s the Walnut Street Bridge, which at one point was going to be torn down.

It connects the southern and northern sides of the city, which, at the time of construction was a huge deal, as the two areas of Chattanooga were very racially segregated.

It was in the late 1970s that the bridge was closed to automobile traffic, and now it’s a great pedestrian bridge for awesome views, and some pretty fantastic events, like an annual wine tasting and annual country music festival.

Oh, and yet another fun fact — it’s the first non-military bridge on the Tennessee River.

13. Go Climbing in the City

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High Point Climbing And Fitness

When you hear rock climbing, you’re probably thinking of going out to a mountain or somewhere in the wilderness to scale the side of a cliff.

One of Chattanooga’s more modern attractions, though, gives you the thrill of the climb, right within the convenience of the city.

High Point Climbing and Fitness is a rock climbing facility that features both indoor and outdoor climbing walls, that go up to 60 feet in the air.

It’s one of the largest fitness centers in the country, and can accommodate both novice and experienced climbers.

Not too sure of your skills? You can sign for a class and learn the ropes (quite literally!).

14. Explore Raccoon Mountain

Raccoon Mountain Caverns

You’re going to have to drive out of the center of the city for this one, but it may be worth it for the adventure. Raccoon Mountain Caverns have more than five miles of mapped cave systems, and the cave is always expanding, people are always discovering new passageways and caverns and it’s just an overall fun activity for the whole family.

Beyond exploring the underground, you can enjoy go-karting or just chilling in the relaxed setting.

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15. Play Ball

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AT&T Field

What’s better in the summer than a baseball game? Not much.

Enjoy the great American past time even in a city where there’s no major league team, when you head to AT&T Field, where you can see the Chattanooga Lookouts, a minor league team that’s a Double-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins.

While you may wonder what the perks are of going to a minor league game over a major league game, there are actually quite a few.

Crowds are thinner, tickets are cheaper, seats are lower and you can have a great up-close-and-personal experience with the game.

16. Zip Down Lookout Mountain

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Ruby Falls ZIPStream Aerial Adventures

If you’re headed to Lookout Mountain or Ruby Falls, make sure to stop at Ruby Falls ZIPStream Aerial Adventures.

You’ll get all the adrenalin you can handle when you’re zipping through the trees! The course isn’t just a zip line, though.

Instead, you’ll go through in-air obstacle courses, that require you to climb through the forest, using ladders, nets, bridges, tunnels and more.

It’s not only a fun family activity, but it’s also a great idea for a business retreat or trust activities for a group!

17. Create and Discover at This Museum

Source: flickr

Creative Discovery Museum

Head to the Creative Discovery Museum if you have an eager learner that’s elementary school age.

This museum is specifically created for kids to explore and learn through play.

There are tons of activities all across the venue, from art lessons to science experiments to music time.

It’s all fun and all with a purpose, so you and your child can enjoy learning together, while still having an awesome time.

18. Visit Chattanooga National Cemetery

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Chattanooga National Cemetery

If you’re not terribly worried about having a roaring good time filled with giggles and laughter, like what’ll ultimately happen at the Creative Discovery Museum, and are more into the solemn, scholarly, historic learning side of Chattanooga, you may appreciate a visit to the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Set on 120 acres, it was first established in 1863. It’s the largest national cemetery in the state, but that’s not the only thing that makes it interesting.

It’s also one of the few national cemeteries where you can see three different Civil War Battle sites — Missionary Ridge, Lookout Mountain and Chattanooga.

19. Jump Out of a Plane

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Chattanooga Skydiving Company

Okay, back to the adrenaline rushes and tons of fun! If you’ve always dreamed of skydiving, but never had the guts, this may be your lucky opportunity.

The Chattanooga Skydiving Company gives you a great tandem skydiving experience, as you’re strapped to an instructor before leaping from the plane.

You’ll get to see the Tennessee River Gorge, Lookout Mountain and the Sequatchie Valley, all from the very best seat in the house — the open air. You’ll have to drive about half an hour from downtown to get to the takeoff spot, but no worries.

You’re in great hands with this family that’s been teaching skydivers since 1960.

20. See Some Art

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Hunter Museum Of American Art

If you visit the Bluff View Art District, you’ll want to stop in the Hunter Museum of American Art.

Established in 1952, the museum is set within a 1904 classical revival mansion that was designed by none other than the son of U.S. President James A. Garfield.

Much of the art you’ll see on display actually is from the Hudson River School.

Genres of art that you can view include modernism and American impressionism.

In addition to the galleries, which were expanded twice over the life of the museum, there are also lots of educational programs to choose from.

21. Smell the Roses

Source: flickr

Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center

If you’re more of a plant person than someone who’s into animals or art, then head to the Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center, where you can see tons of different varieties of not only plants, but also wild animals.

Lots of the plants on display are what you would see right within the southeastern United States.

There are 14 miles of trails, a boardwalk (where you can spot blue heron), a butterfly garden, children’s areas, canoes and even a library.

22. See Some More Art

Source: gallery1401

Gallery 1401

But back to the art…Gallery 1401 is in the Southside neighborhood, and you’ll see a ton of different art styles and trends within its walls.

There are more than 40 artists on display, including some that are internationally recognized.

You’ll see classic works, impressionism, realism and more.

In addition, there are all kinds of artistic mediums as well, beyond your traditional paint on canvas.

See multimedia art, sculptures, hand-blown glass, photography exhibits, etc.

Top 13+ Amazing Waterfalls in Tennessee

23. See Some Trains

Source: flickr

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum was built almost 50 years ago, and was part of the National Railway Historical Society.

There’s a reconstructed rail line, and you can even ride on the track, on a daily service that’s highly educational as well as fun.

24. Shop at Chattanooga Market

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Chattanooga Market

Visiting farmers markets in various destinations can teach you a lot about the city you’re visiting.

Stop by the Chattanooga Market, an open-air pavilion filled with vendors selling not only farmers market-type items, but also arts and crafts.

There are 300 vendors, and thousands of people visit each weekend.

You can be assured that each and every item sold there is created, grown or hand-made by the person selling it, per the market rules.

25. Take Flight

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Chattanooga Balloon Company

If you don’t want to jump out of a plane, at least see the city from up above, from the comfort of a hot air balloon.

The Chattanooga Balloon Company offers rides that are one mile long, and that take you as far as 10 miles, following the Tennessee River Valley.

Top 13+ Best Memphis (Tennessee) Tours

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Located in southwestern Tennessee along the Mississippi River, Memphis is considered to be one of the most historic and cultural cities of not only Tennessee but also all of the United States of America.

In the present day, Memphis features as a hub for trade, knowledge, art, and entertainment. Home to blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll music, Memphis has a unique aura, as well as delicious traditional food. The combined traditional and modern amenities of the area ensure the best experience of the sunny days and exciting nights.

To make sure you don’t miss any of the highlights of the city, here are of the best tours that will show you the best of Memphis.

1. Memphis Tour With Optional Graceland Admission

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Memphis, Tennessee

Head out on the streets of Memphis and discover all its major highlights, ranging from the Memphis Pyramid to the National Civil Rights Museum, and optional entrance to Graceland.

Spend 3 hours touring the city of Memphis with a narrator to tell you all the facts and tidbits about sites you visit. The tour will take you on a cruise along the Mississippi River, drive by the Pyramid Arena, Lorraine Hotel, Peabody Hotel and finally grant admission into Graceland Mansion.

This tour offers you the best sights of Memphis city, from the hotel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated to Elvis Presley’s former home, all of them being things that you don’t want to miss.

2. Sun Studio Guided Tour

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Sun Studio

Explore one of the must-visit places in Memphis, the Sun Studio, where rock ‘n’ roll, blues, and soul music came to life.

This is a 45-minute guided tour that will take you around the most famous recording studio in the world, where a number of great musicians like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King made their magic happen. And you also get a voucher to spend at the Sun Studio store, where you can find some of your musical favorites.

3. Historic Memphis Walking Tour

Source: Sean Pavone

Beale Street, Historic Memphis

Explore the history of Memphis on a walking tour as you roam its streets, exploring all the hotspots of the city. Marvel at the beautiful and iconic sights as you gain more knowledge about the city.

This 2-hour tour will take you to all the historic and beautiful sights of the city, including the iconic Beale Street. Visit the architectural wonders of the city such as Court Square Fountain, Lincoln American Tower, and Calvary Episcopal Church, as your guide tells you about the city’s civil war, prohibition history, and its rich culture.

4. Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission

Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum

Discover the mansion which was once home to the Woodruff and Fontaine families and is furnished with fabulous antiques from the Victorian era.

This hour-long tour that will give you a deeper insight into what the city was like back in the nineteenth century, as you learn more about what the city was like during that era.

Explore the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum in a small group, at your own pace. Scan QR codes throughout the house and learn more about the house and history.

5. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum Admission

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Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

Get your music mode on and visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to discover the history of the music that came to life in Memphis.

Spend your day at the museum indulging in Memphis’ musical legacy, and discover more about important musicians such as BB King and Muddy Waters, who were major pioneers in the music industry.

Explore costumes, instruments, photographs and more belonging to the musicians of Memphis, with an audio guide that includes up to 5 hours of information and over 100 songs, making this experience one of a kind.

6. Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour

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Downtown Memphis Food Tour

This is a food crawl that serves you the history of the city along with its traditional food, as you tour six different restaurants with a local food expert.

Enjoy 3 hours of classic Memphian food at six restaurants, including not only award-winning restaurants but also known family-owned eateries. Escape the tourist traps as a local tells you all the right places and the right things to eat.

Follow your guide on this tour as he leads you to the best restaurants of the town and learn more about the history of Memphis in between restaurants and food.

7. Memphis Mojo Music Bus Tour

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Memphis Mojo Music Bus Tour

Tap your feet to the music on this bus tour that will guide you around the city of the birth of blues as local musicians keep you grooving with music, tambourines, and bongos.

Spend up to three hours with local Memphis musicians that entertain and guide you around the city as you visit all the major sites of the city including Beale Street, Stax Studio, Lorraine Moter, and even admission into Sun Studio.

It’s a tour packed with music, history and loads of enjoyments that is definitely one of a kind.

8. Haunted Pub Crawl In Memphis

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Haunted Pub Crawl In Memphis

Hold your breath and beat the fear on this pub crawl that takes you through the haunted pubs of the city.

Spend two and a half hours discovering three of the city’s haunted pubs where you get to hear stories and legends straight from the locals and your guide.

Rely on your guide, a paranormal investigator, who will tell you only the real and verified ghost stories as you enjoy your drinks at the pubs.

9. Elvis Memories Sightseeing Tour

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Elvis Memories Sightseeing Tour

Follow the memories of Elvis Presley around the city of Memphis as you explore the city from his eyes.

It’s a two-to-three-hour tour that will allow you to visit all the places important to Elvis Presley’s life such as his home, school, and the very beautiful Botanical Garden Home, as a local guide tells you more about his life and the sites you visit.

Enjoy this family-friendly tour, which is perfect for anyone who is an avid fan of the star, and enjoy the pleasures of eating fried peanut butter and banana sandwich at Elvis’ favorite restaurant too.

10. Hard Rock Cafe

Source: photo-denver

Hard Rock Cafe Memphis

Take a break from long and tiring tours and stop for lunch at the very popular Hard Rock Cafe, situated right in the midst of the never-ending bustle of the iconic Beale Street.

Spend your afternoon at the Rock Hard Cafe and delve into the prix-fixe menu. Enjoy the music genre-themed meals and the accompanying beverages, both of which come from classic American cooking.

Enjoy priority seating and scrumptious food while you marvel at the rock memorabilia on the walls and relax.

11. Memphis Ghosts Walking Tour

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Memphis Ghosts Walking Tour

Set out on an adventure to the darker, secluded, and haunted sights of Memphis on this walking tour that will give you the chills.

Embark on this 2-hour tour, led by a local guide that tells you all the spooky tales of various hauntings, paranormal sightings, and legends from around the city. Go through the former brothel Ernestine and Hazel’s, which is known to be home to a number of notorious spirits.

Hear about haunting tales from guides and locals as you visit the haunted sites on this chilling tour.

12. Memphis City Tour And Riverboat Cruise

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Memphis City Tour And Riverboat Cruise

Head out sightseeing in downtown Memphis with a guide and enjoy a ride down the Mississipi River on an old-fashioned paddlewheel boat.

Enjoy over 6 hours of exploring the city of Memphis, its history and captivating sights, on land as well as water. Witness Memphis’ classic Beale Street and the old mansions in the Victorian Village neighborhood as a guide tells you about their history and culture.

This is a land and water tour that takes you through beautiful sites and history of Memphis in a day, ensuring you see the best of the city.

13. Self-Guided Memphis Music Tour With Transportation

Source: f11photo

Beale Street, Memphis

Explore three of Memphis’ most famous historical sites of the music industry, discovering the history of each at your own pace on this self-guided tour.

This 5-hour tour will take you to Stax Records, Sun Studio, and the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, and allow you to enjoy and explore each site as fast or as slow as you wish, as you discover the landmarks where musical history was made.

This is a tour perfect for anyone that enjoys music with live commentary along the tour and round-trip transportation throughout.

14. Memphis Discovery Tour Including Rock & Soul Museum

Source: Tim Daugherty

Orpheum Theater, Memphis

Uncover the rich culture and history of downtown Memphis on this coach tour as you visit most of the city’s attractions and learn more about them.

This 3-hour tour is led by a guide that gives you an insight into the city’s music scene on Beale Street and at the Orpheum Theater and Gibson Guitar Factory, as well as its civil rights landmarks such as the Lorraine Motel. During the tour, you also get to witness the sites that hold historic importance such as the Court Square, Victorian Village, and Cotton Row.

Enjoy discovering all the aspects of Memphis and then fill your belly at the included barbecue at a local restaurant.

15. City Of Memphis Tour

Source: Sean Pavone

Memphis

This tour is ideal for anyone visiting Memphis for the first time, with visits to all the major hotspots of the city while learning all about the city’s history and present.

This three-hour tour will take you to the key sights of the city including the iconic Beale Street, the famous Graceland, and the historic Victorian Homes as you get a deeper insight on all of the locations and their historic importance.

The tour allows you to choose from morning or afternoon bookings, and includes round-trip transportation to and from your hotel, which makes touring the city of Memphis all the more convenient.

Top 13+ Best Things to Do in Knoxville (TN)

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The great city of Knoxville is nestled in the state of Tennessee where it is also blessed by an abundance of beautiful surrounding landmarks like the Tennessee River, the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains, and the equally breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

You can learn all about the history and culture of Tennessee on a trip here, with gems like museums, history centers, parks, fairs, and theaters, as well as a range of historical buildings and monuments.

Knoxville was a prominent location during times such as the Civil War, and as such this history is showcased throughout the city through a range of beautiful historical attractions that will capture the imagination of history buffs.

For anyone travelling with children, Knoxville also won’t disappoint, with museums, educational exhibits, and the mighty Knoxville Zoo.

There is even a dedicated theater called the Children’s Theater that is run by children, for children.

Lets explore the best things to do in Knoxville:

1. World’s Fair Park

World’s Fair Park

World’s Fair Park was the venue of the World’s Fair in 1982 and is now, all these years on, still one of the most loved attractions in Knoxville.

The park is made up of grassy knolls, fountains, and paved walking trails, and if you want to come here in the summer months then you are in for a treat.

When the weather heats up, you can cool down in the quirky fountains and geysers that are set up here or you can just catch some of the live music events that take place here over holiday periods.

There is also a sunsphere observation deck in the park where you can look across at the Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River and enjoy some of the local landscapes. Source: mapio

2. McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture

Source: president.tennessee

McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture

The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture is easily recognizable thanks to the dinosaur that welcomes guests on the front lawn called Monty.

The aim of the museum is to showcase the best of the local historical and archeological background of Tennessee, and to that end you can find fossils and dinosaur bones on display as well as exhibits that delve into periods such as the Civil War.

3. Tennessee Theater

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Tennessee Theater

The Tennessee Theater dates from 1928 when it was charmingly referred to as a ‘movie palace’. Nowadays the theater is still an icon thanks to its Spanish-Moorish style of architecture, and you will find period antiques here like the original crystal chandeliers as well as marble floors and Asian textiles.

If you are looking for some culture in Knoxville, then this is one of the best places to find it, as you can expect classic films, musical concerts, and Broadway shows.

The Knoxville Opera and the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra also play here.

4. Mabry-Hazen House Museum

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Mabry-Hazen House Museum

The Mabry-Hazen House Museum is located on the gorgeous Mabry Hill and used to be the home of one of the most famous families in Knoxville.

The house dates from 1858 and has a huge collection of antiques that used to belong to the Mabry-Hazen family and will give you a unique insight into how people would have lived in Tennessee in days gone by.

The home was also used by Union and Confederate forces and has a key role during the Civil War, meaning that history buffs shouldn’t miss the chance to visit if they are in the area.

5. Knoxville Zoo

Source: flickr

Knoxville Zoo

For a look at some of the most beautiful wildlife in Knoxville, head over to the Knoxville Zoo where you can find over 900 animals in one place.

Species here come from all over the world and are grouped according to their habitats, and you can experience exotic animals like Komodo dragons and Khaleesi.

There are also animals encounter sessions where you can get up close to the wildlife, and there are also other attractions like splash pad, a theater, and a carousel.

6. East Tennessee History Center

Source: knoxvilletennessee

East Tennessee History Center

For a look at the amazing history in the United States, head to the East Tennessee History Center where you can learn all about it firsthand.

Here you will find a range of exhibits including interactive galleries and personal stories that will take you back 300 years before leading you up to the present day.

Many of the displays here are designed with children in mind in order to present an engaging learning experience to young minds, and to that end this is the perfect place to come if you are looking for a rainy day activity in Knoxville.

7. Old City

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Old City

Old City is the name given to the historical downtown area of Knoxville, and is one of the best loved corners of the city.

Here you will find quirky venues such as small coffee house as well as vibrant art galleries, or you can enjoy some typical Tennessee dishes in one of the local restaurants here.

In the evening, you won’t be bored, as there is a widespread live music scene here, and many of the buildings in this area are some of the oldest and most historically significant in the city.

8. Ijams Nature Center

Source: tripadvisor

Ijams Nature Center

For anyone who is a nature lover, the Ijams Nature Center is not to be missed on a trip to Knoxville.

The center is the brainchild of Harry Ijams who opened it originally as a sanctuary for birds, although the area has now grown to include 300 acres of land and is now a wildlife preserve as well as an educational center.

Amazingly, the center is only 3 miles outside of Knoxville, and yet it can feel like another world as you explore creeks, groves, and hiking trails.

There is also a rock climbing section of the center, or you can choose to go on a relaxing canoe ride.

9. Blount Mansion

Source: flickr

Blount Mansion

Head back in time to see the story of Knoxville firsthand at the beautiful Blount Mansion.

The home belonged to William Blount, most well known for signing the U.S Constitution and for being the Governor of the Southwest Territory.

The house dates from 1792 and William Blount’s presence here is actually the reason why Knoxville is the capitol of Tennessee.

Nowadays the home has been turned into a museum and you can see displays that will take you through not just the history of the house itself, but also through the background of this amazing city.

10. Market Square Farmer’s Market

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Market Square Farmer’s Market

The Market Square Farmer’s Market is known for being part of a wider project in the city called Nourish Knoxville which aims to promote collaborations between the local community and farmers.

To that end, local vendors set up here every week to sell their wares, all located in the historical setting of Market Square in the downtown area of Knoxville.

All produce sold here comes from the region and you can either buy fresh raw ingredients or pick up some delicious cooked dished or baked goods.

11. James White Fort

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James White Fort

James White was the founder of Knoxville, and now you can see how he would have lived by visiting his former house, known as the James White Fort.

The home is the perfect place to learn all about frontier life, and you can enjoy hands on displays here like cooking, spinning, and even blacksmith workshops.

There are also special holiday events here at this working life museum such as ghost tours around Halloween, so make sure to check out what is on when you are in town.

12. Knoxville Museum of Art

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Knoxville Museum of Art

The Knoxville Museum of Art has been in operation for 25 years and has the mission statement of celebrating and promoting art from the Tennessee area.

The building is a work of art itself as it is made of marble mined in Tennessee, and it also has the claim to fame of having the largest glass installation in the world called the Cycle of Life.

You can find the work of artists from all over the state of Tennessee here as well as pieces by up and coming talent from the region.

13. The Muse Knoxville

Source: knoxnews

The Muse Knoxville

The Muse Knoxville is a favorite of children in Knoxville, making it a great place to visit if you are traveling with younger visitors.

The facility is a mix of art and science galleries and spans 4,000 square feet.

The facility is split up into themed educational sections like construction, nutrition, and science and most of the exhibits are interactive so that children can learn by doing.

There is also a planetarium that is the only one available in Knoxville, so if you want to explore the solar system, then this is not to be missed.

14. Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame

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Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame

If you like basketball then you can’t miss the chance to pay homage to some of the basketball greats at the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

Here you will find memorabilia from 139 inductees into the hall of fame, and learn all about their backgrounds and contribution to the sport.

There are also interactive displays here such as courts where you can try out your some of your own basketball skills.

15. Knoxville Children’s Theater

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Knoxville Children’s Theater

Knoxville Children’s Theater is known for being one of the best places to bring youngsters if you are in town.

The theater is located in the historic downtown area of Tennessee and aims to celebrate culture and the arts through a series of performances by children, for children.

You can enjoy a diverse range of shows, from more serious pieces, to musicals, and if you want you can even attend a class or a workshop here.

The theater performs all year round so make sure to check out local listings to find out what is one when you are in town.