Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Tennessee

Tennessee encompasses a vibrant music scene in its dynamic cities, including Memphis and Nashville, alongside tourist attractions such as Graceland and breathtaking natural landscapes that cater to diverse interests. Whether you are an enthusiast of country music seeking live performances and bourbon or prefer engaging in country line dancing, Memphis and Nashville are poised to welcome you. Alternatively, you can embark on a road trip, as the region boasts numerous national parks and mountainous terrains prime for exploration. Discover the magnificent caves and the Smoky Mountain Range for an invigorating escape from your daily routine.

Let us delve into the premier attractions in Tennessee:

1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing the ridgeline of the Great Smoky Mountains and sections of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is recognized as the most frequented national park in the United States. The renowned Appalachian Trail traverses the park, which was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940, marking it as one of the initial federally funded parks in the country.

Consider adding this destination to your itinerary while in Tennessee. The primary entrance is located in Gatlinburg, a picturesque mountain town. After exploring the vibrant main street, don your hiking boots and embark on various trails, such as the Alum Cave Trail, to immerse yourself in the region’s wildlife, geology, and history. Be sure not to overlook Cades Cove, a valley adorned with well-preserved historic structures from earlier periods – ensure your camera is ready to capture the natural beauty surrounding you. The most appealing aspect? Admission is complimentary!

2. Graceland, the Playground of Elvis

Situated in Memphis, Tennessee, the original Graceland Mansion was the residence of Elvis Presley until its transformation into a museum that opened to the public in 1982, initiated by his surviving family. Recognized as both a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it ranks among the most-visited private residences in the United States, second only to the White House.

Originally acquired by Elvis to evade fame, the estate expanded across the surrounding verdant pastures over time. The house reflects the unique tastes of Elvis and his mother, and a tour today will reveal the eclectic decor. Explore the museum’s various rooms to view his iconic Vegas jumpsuits, awards, and car collection. The property even houses Presley’s two airplanes! Be it your keen interest in American pop culture or music, Graceland offers a rich cultural and architectural journey that is not to be missed.

3. Vibrant Music Scene of Nashville

Tennessee is the birthplace of country music and boasts numerous music venues catering to both residents and visitors. What could be better than experiencing emerging artists live while enjoying a glass of exquisite Tennessee bourbon? Nashville is brimming with vibrant neighborhoods rich in musical heritage, housing iconic venues such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

A leisurely stroll down Broadway can lead you to the Bootleggers Inn, which blends Prohibition-era history with exceptional music in the heart of downtown! Alternatively, if you wish to explore a different genre, the Nashville Jazz Workshop in Germantown offers a refreshing variation. Regardless of your music preference—be it pop, rock, country, gospel, or jazz—keep an eye out for guitar-shaped signs throughout Nashville to discover music venues as you navigate through the Music City. It seems likely you will uncover a true treasure.

4. Dollywood

Dolly Parton, drawing from her experiences as a renowned country artist, spearheaded the renovation of this amusement park located in the Knoxville-Smoky Mountains metropolitan area of Pigeon Forge. Initially owned by the Robins Brothers and known as “Silver Dollar City,” Dolly, having grown up in the vicinity, purchased shares in the park after achieving fame and worked on its transformation, culminating in its rebranding as “Dollywood.”

Since its inception, the park has doubled in size and now features ten themed areas, including Showstreet, Country Fair, Jukebox Junction, among others. Beyond standard amusement park rides, it showcases the culture and music of the Southern Appalachian region, as well as a full-size steam train! Plan a visit any day from Presidents Day through the Christmas Holidays, or during any of the five festivals hosted by Dollywood.

5. Tennessee Civil War Trails

Tennessee played a significant role in the Civil War, contributing substantial numbers of both Confederate and Union soldiers while enduring numerous critical battles. Markers along the Civil War Trail delineate historically significant locations across the state, including preserved battleground sites.

Trail markers begin in Franklin and Blountville, including various others in Columbia, mapping a pivotal segment of General Hood’s 1864 campaign to reclaim control of Tennessee following the Union’s victory at Shiloh, after which Memphis was seized and remained under Union control despite Confederate attempts to reclaim the state. Explore the key battleground in Chattanooga to witness Civil War history firsthand! Additionally, consider visiting the National Civil Rights Museum or the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site during your journey.

6. The Parthenon

There’s no need to travel to Athens to admire this stunning structure; it is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon. Constructed in 1897 for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition, it now serves as an art museum. The Parthenon is situated in Centennial Park and is adorned with plaster replicas of the original sculptures that graced the Athenian Parthenon, including the statue of Athena Parthenos.

Take some time off from the music scene to experience the “Athens of the South” while in Nashville. Initially intended for demolition, the Parthenon gained popularity and now stands as a remarkable American architectural accomplishment. Today, it houses a permanent collection of 63 paintings by American artists from the 19th and 20th centuries, alongside rotating exhibitions. Art culture enhances the music experience, so why not indulge in both during your stay in Nashville?

7. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museums

Experience a nostalgic journey on the rails reminiscent of times past at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, a chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. Founded by Paul H. Merriman and Robert M. Soule alongside a group of railway preservationists, the museum showcases steam locomotives and railway equipment for future generations.

Founded in 1960, the museum initially housed equipment from Western Union, expanding its collection following the cessation of passenger service on the Southern Railway. Their permanent facility opened in 1970 in East Chattanooga, where visitors can enjoy train rides that offer an authentic experience of steam-powered railroading’s golden age. Choose from a one-hour excursion on a steam locomotive or a half-day journey on the Hiwassee Loop. Relax and immerse yourself in this captivating mode of transportation that played a vital role in transforming the nation.

8. Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville, situated in Knox County, was established in 1786 as Tennessee’s first capital. It flourished following the advent of the railroad but was torn apart by its role in the Civil War and faced significant economic hardship during the Great Depression. In recent years, the city has experienced a resurgence, establishing itself as a hub of Appalachian culture as well as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Come explore this dynamic city teeming with artistic and cultural offerings! Visit the Beck Cultural Exchange Center, or explore the Knoxville Museum of Art. Consider attending one of the numerous festivals hosted throughout the year, such as Bacon Fest or Biscuit Fest – after all, who can resist an opportunity to indulge in delightful culinary experiences in such charming surroundings? Moreover, the enticing BrewFest and various attractions in Downtown Knoxville ensure there is something to enjoy regardless of the season. Take a moment to relax and savor the genuine Southern hospitality and entertainment!

9. Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain is a ridge straddling the northwest corner of Georgia, the northeast corner of Alabama, and the Tennessee state line in Chattanooga. The name is said to derive from a Cherokee term meaning two mountains facing each other; the mountain witnessed significant historical events, including the “last battle of the Cherokees” during the Nickajack Expedition and the Battle of Lookout Mountain in the American Civil War.

Today, it stands as a natural wonder awaiting your exploration! Visit the Ruby Falls Cavern, a popular destination featuring a stunning waterfall, or head to Rock City, which hosts various events throughout the year, with uniquely titled attractions like Lover’s Leap and Fat Man’s Squeeze. Lastly, consider taking a ride on the Incline Railway or visiting the Battle of Chattanooga Museum. You will be mesmerized by the enchanting blend of nature and history found in the mountains!

10. The Titanic Museum

The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge is renowned as the largest permanent Titanic museum globally. Opened in 2010, the building is constructed at half-scale of the original ship. The museum features 400 artifacts that predate the ship’s discovery, showcased in twenty galleries designed at a cost of $25 million! Although one might not anticipate a maritime museum in a landlocked state, this represents an extraordinary and enriching experience in Tennessee!

Upon entry, visitors receive a boarding ticket bearing the name of an actual Titanic passenger and their traveling class. As you journey through the ship, immerse yourself in the perspective of that passenger; it even simulates being at sea as it is constructed above a pool! Enjoy a self-guided tour that lasts approximately two hours, concluding in the Titanic Memorial Room, where you can discover whether the passenger on your ticket survived. This experience deepens your understanding of the poignant tale surrounding this beautiful yet fated vessel and its passengers.

11. Lost Sea Cave at Craighead Caverns

Located between Sweetwater and Madisonville, Tennessee, Craighead Caverns derives its name from a Cherokee chief, Chief Craighead, and is home to the largest non-subglacial lake in the United States, known as The Lost Sea. Take a trip to the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to explore these captivating caves, adorned with beautiful crystal clusters and stunning waterfalls.

You are traversing a location rich in history—the caverns were mined by Confederate soldiers during the war for saltpeter, essential for gunpowder production. Discover the enchanting caverns and embark on a boat tour of the Lost Sea, which extends far beyond the eye can see and fills many cavernous rooms to the brim with water. For many, the boat tour is considered the highlight of their visit, affording ample opportunities to admire the crystal stalactites and intriguing arches that create enchanting shadows in this underground wonderland.

12. Bell Witch Cave

Tennessee is replete with fascinating natural attractions, including the Bell Witch Cave situated in Adams, Tennessee. This karst cave remains privately owned, with tours available during the summer and in October. It is located on the former grounds of Bell Farm, which is no longer operational and evokes an era during which the Bell Witch allegedly tormented the Bell Family. According to folklore, when she ultimately vanished, she sought refuge in the cave.

If you find yourself in Tennessee during the summer, consider seeking refuge from the heat within the 490-foot-long cave. You can enjoy the serene natural surroundings. For the intrepid, a venture inside may yield a chance encounter with the ghost of the old witch, offering guidance on cave exploration, akin to her past lectures to the young Bell children who once naively ventured into her domain.

13. Oak Ridge, The Secret City

Oak Ridge is a city located in Anderson and Roan counties in eastern Tennessee, situated west of Knoxville. This site holds a unique place in U.S. history, having been established in 1942 by scientists from the Manhattan Project, who were involved in the development of the atomic bomb, concealed from the public for an extended period. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory continues to conduct scientific research to this day.

The military developed the area into this clandestine city during World War II due to its accessible yet secluded location. The population surged to over 70,000 by 1945, yet many residents remained unaware of the true nature of their work until news of the atomic bomb’s deployment on Japan reached them! You can explore this now-thriving city and envision what life must have been like for those who lived and labored here under the shrouded purpose of their efforts. The charming surroundings contrast starkly with the original purpose of this city, creating a profound experience.

14. Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness

This natural preserve spans over 1,000 acres and is located near the Bridgestone Firestone Centennial Wilderness. Virgin Falls is formed by an underground stream that flows from a cave, cascading down a 110-foot cliff before re-entering another cave below. This area also shelters several other stunning waterfalls, including Sheep Cave Falls and Big Laurel.

Consider visiting Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness, equipped with your camera to capture the beauty of these waterfalls and experience the intriguing geological formations. A scenic vantage point at Caney Fork Overlook offers breathtaking views of Scott’s Gulf and the Caney Fork River. You may opt to utilize the recreational trail to experience all of it—it’s certainly worth the effort and visit!

15. The Crystal Shrine Grotto

Situated in Memphis, Tennessee, the Crystal Shrine Grotto is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Graceland, found within Memorial Park Cemetery. Traverse the tree-lined path leading to the rocky spire and immerse yourself in the tranquility unique to cemeteries. Constructed by Dionicio Rodriguez and completed in 1938, the Grotto showcases an intricate collection of handmade Biblical scenes.

Walk through the aperture of a concrete tree stump, named Abraham’s Oak, and explore the stories depicted in rock quartz crystals and semi-precious stones. Rodriguez artfully illustrates “Christ’s journey” in this serene and beautiful environment, providing a respite from mainstream tourism. Allow yourself to be enveloped by the artistry of Rodriguez’s expert craftsmanship and enjoy a moment of reflection.