Tennessee, known for its rich music history, stunning landscapes, and Southern charm, offers a plethora of attractions for visitors. We’ve consulted with locals to bring you the 20 best places to visit in the Volunteer State.

1. Nashville

The capital city, Nashville, is a must-visit for music lovers. Known as “Music City,” it’s home to:

• The Grand Ole Opry
• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Broadway’s honky-tonk bars

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

America’s most visited national park offers:

• Breathtaking mountain scenery
• Diverse wildlife
• Hiking trails for all skill levels

3. Memphis

The birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis features:

• Graceland, Elvis Presley’s mansion
• Beale Street’s vibrant music scene
• The National Civil Rights Museum

4. Chattanooga

This scenic city along the Tennessee River boasts:

• The Tennessee Aquarium
• Lookout Mountain
• The Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel

5. Gatlinburg

A gateway to the Smokies, Gatlinburg offers:

• Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park & Ski Area
• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
• Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

6. Pigeon Forge

Home to Dolly Parton’s Dollywood, Pigeon Forge also features:

• The Island in Pigeon Forge
• Titanic Museum Attraction
• WonderWorks

7. Franklin

This charming town near Nashville is known for:

• Historic downtown with boutique shops
• Carnton Plantation
• Natchez Trace Parkway

8. Knoxville

Home to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers:

• World’s Fair Park
• Ijams Nature Center
• Market Square

9. Ruby Falls

Located near Chattanooga, this underground waterfall is a spectacular sight.

10. Fall Creek Falls State Park

This park boasts one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States.

11. Jack Daniel’s Distillery

Located in Lynchburg, this historic distillery offers tours and tastings.

12. Bristol

Known as the “Birthplace of Country Music,” Bristol features:

• Birthplace of Country Music Museum
• Bristol Motor Speedway

13. Clingmans Dome

The highest point in Tennessee offers panoramic views of the Smokies.

14. Ryman Auditorium

This historic venue in Nashville is known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”

15. Rock City

Located atop Lookout Mountain, Rock City offers unique rock formations and panoramic views.

16. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

This park offers hiking trails and historical sites along the famous mountain pass.

17. Reelfoot Lake

This unique lake, formed by earthquakes in the early 19th century, is a haven for wildlife.

18. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

The former home of President Andrew Jackson is now a museum near Nashville.

19. Lost Sea Adventure

America’s largest underground lake is located in Sweetwater, Tennessee.

20. Cades Cove

This scenic valley in the Great Smoky Mountains offers wildlife viewing and historic buildings.

Tennessee’s diverse attractions offer something for everyone, from music lovers and history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts and foodies. These local-approved destinations are sure to make your visit to the Volunteer State unforgettable.