[List] 25 Unforgettable Activities to Experience in Tennessee on Your Next Trip

Key Takeaways:

• Tennessee offers a vibrant mix of live music, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural history.
• From hiking in the Smoky Mountains to exploring Nashville’s music scene, Tennessee has something for everyone.
• Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or outdoor adventurer, Tennessee’s unique blend of attractions will captivate you.

Tennessee, known for its rich musical heritage and stunning natural beauty, is a state that offers something for every type of traveler. From the lively streets of Nashville, known as Music City, to the rolling hills and rugged trails of the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee is a state full of diverse experiences. Its history as the birthplace of country, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll gives it a unique cultural charm, with music festivals, live performances, and museums celebrating its iconic musicians. But Tennessee is not just about music—its breathtaking landscapes, charming small towns, and outdoor adventures make it an ideal destination for nature lovers as well.

Visitors love Tennessee for its blend of exciting city life, rich history, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’re hiking through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visiting the iconic Graceland mansion in Memphis, or enjoying some mouthwatering barbecue in Nashville, Tennessee promises unforgettable moments. The state’s mix of southern hospitality, incredible music, and scenic beauty makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re exploring the cities, towns, or countryside, Tennessee offers a unique and enriching travel experience.

Here are 25 things to do in Tennessee:

#1 Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Hike, camp, or enjoy scenic drives in the U.S.’s most visited national park.

#2 Explore Graceland in Memphis: Tour the home of Elvis Presley and see memorabilia from his legendary career.

#3 Take a Scenic Drive on the Natchez Trace Parkway: Drive through picturesque landscapes, exploring historic sites and scenic overlooks.

#4 Discover the Music Scene in Nashville: Experience live performances, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, and stroll down Broadway.

#5 Hike to Clingmans Dome: Reach the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains for panoramic views.

#6 Visit the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga: Explore the riverfront aquarium with diverse aquatic exhibits and interactive displays.

#7 Tour the Jack Daniel’s Distillery: Learn about the history and process behind one of Tennessee’s most famous spirits in Lynchburg.

#8 Walk Through the Sun Studio in Memphis: Visit the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, where legendary musicians like Elvis recorded.

#9 Relax at Norris Lake: Spend the day boating, fishing, or enjoying the scenic views of this beautiful lake.

#10 Go to the Dollywood Theme Park: Enjoy thrilling rides, live shows, and unique attractions in Pigeon Forge.

#11 Experience the Red Clay State Historic Park: Learn about Tennessee’s Native American history and the Cherokee Nation at this park.

#12 Stroll Through the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens: Explore beautiful botanical gardens and fine art exhibitions in Nashville.

#13 Take a Riverboat Cruise on the Tennessee River: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the river while soaking in the surrounding natural beauty.

#14 Visit the National Civil Rights Museum: Explore the history of civil rights and the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Memphis.

#15 Explore the Lost Sea Adventure: Discover the largest underground lake in the U.S. through guided tours and boat rides.

#16 Go to the Knoxville Market Square: Enjoy local food, shops, and outdoor events in this vibrant city center.

#17 Hike to Laurel Falls: Visit the Great Smoky Mountains’ most popular waterfall, accessible via an easy hike.

#18 Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Sevierville: Soar over the stunning mountain views on a hot air balloon ride.

#19 Visit the Hermitage in Nashville: Tour Andrew Jackson’s historic plantation home and learn about his presidency.

#20 Experience the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere: See over 2,000 animals in a fun, family-friendly environment.

#21 Explore the Rock City Gardens in Lookout Mountain: Walk through a magical garden with unique rock formations and scenic views.

#22 Go Caving at Ruby Falls: Explore the stunning underground waterfall in Lookout Mountain on a guided tour.

#23 Enjoy the Tennessee State Fair: Experience fun rides, food, games, and exhibits during this annual event in Nashville.

#24 Visit the Ryman Auditorium: Attend a concert or take a tour of this historic Nashville venue known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”

#25 Explore the Cookeville History Museum: Learn about the rich history of Putnam County through exhibits and artifacts.

Where Can I Find Both Free and Paid Events Going on in South Dakota?

For both free and paid events in Tennessee, PlanMyWeekend.ai is an excellent resource. It helps you search for events based on location, interests, and price, offering a wide variety of options from free outdoor concerts to ticketed shows and festivals. Whether you’re in Nashville looking for a free music performance or attending a paid concert in Memphis, PlanMyWeekend.ai makes it easy to plan your visit and ensure you don’t miss any of the best events. With its easy-to-use interface, you can customize your search to find the perfect activities during your trip to Tennessee.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee is a state that has it all—stunning natural landscapes, rich musical history, and a variety of cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring the scenic Smoky Mountains, immersing yourself in Nashville’s music scene, or enjoying the historical landmarks in Memphis, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Be sure to plan your trip with PlanMyWeekend.ai to ensure you don’t miss any of Tennessee’s amazing events and activities. From lively city adventures to peaceful outdoor escapes, Tennessee promises a memorable experience for all types of travelers.