- Destination -

Tennessee

Tennessee is one of those states that packs a lot of personality into its borders. From the neon lights of Nashville’s honky-tonks to the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, every corner has its own rhythm. You can sip whiskey straight from the source in Lynchburg, hike waterfalls near Chattanooga, eat your weight in barbecue in Memphis, and still have more to explore. It’s the kind of place where live music spills out of every doorway, strangers strike up conversations like you’ve known them for years, and “y’all” somehow starts slipping into your vocabulary before the weekend’s over. Whether you’re chasing mountain views, live shows, or just some good Southern hospitality, Tennessee has it covered.

Best Time to Visit

Tennessee is a year-round destination, but your experience will depend on the season—and how you feel about humidity.

  • Spring (March–May): Wildflowers bloom across the Smokies, Nashville patios reopen, and festival season begins. It’s warm without being too hot.

  • Summer (June–August): Hot, humid, and lively. Music festivals, lake days, and backyard BBQs dominate the calendar. Bring your sunscreen and your patience for the heat.

  • Fall (September–November): Peak season for a reason. The Smoky Mountains turn every shade of gold and orange, and small towns come alive with harvest festivals.

  • Winter (December–February): Quieter and budget-friendly, with cozy cabin stays and light displays galore. East Tennessee even gets a dusting of snow for that storybook vibe.

If you want the perfect mix of weather and scenery, fall is the best time to visit Tennessee.

Top Things to Do

  • Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park: America’s most-visited national park is packed with waterfalls, scenic drives, and easy hikes for all levels.

  • Experience Nashville: Catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry, stroll Broadway’s honky-tonks, and tour the Country Music Hall of Fame.

  • Visit Memphis: Walk through music history at Graceland, Sun Studio, and the National Civil Rights Museum. Don’t forget to grab a rack of ribs at Central BBQ.

  • Discover Chattanooga: Ride the Incline Railway up Lookout Mountain, visit Ruby Falls, and walk the world’s longest pedestrian bridge over the Tennessee River.

  • Soak in small-town charm: Places like Franklin, Jonesborough, and Gatlinburg are perfect for antique shopping, local eats, and cozy weekend getaways.

Blogs & Itineraries

Travel information

Getting There

Tennessee is well-connected by air, road, and even scenic train routes.

  • By Air: Major airports include Nashville International (BNA), Memphis International (MEM), and McGhee Tyson in Knoxville (TYS). Smaller regional airports serve cities like Chattanooga and Tri-Cities.

  • By Car: Interstates 40, 24, 75, and 81 make road-tripping across Tennessee easy. Expect gorgeous drives, especially through the Smokies.

  • By Train: Amtrak’s “City of New Orleans” line runs through Memphis for a nostalgic, scenic route from Chicago to New Orleans.

Travel Tips

  • Pack for all seasons: Tennessee weather can’t make up its mind. Layers are your best friend.

  • Plan around events: Hotels book fast during big festivals like Bonnaroo, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, and Memphis in May.

  • Bring comfy shoes: Between downtown strolls, hikes, and exploring mountain towns, you’ll easily hit your step goal.

  • Don’t rush it: Tennessee isn’t meant to be “done” in a weekend. Each region—West, Middle, and East Tennessee—feels like its own mini trip.

  • Personal Tip: My favorite way to experience the state? Pair a few nights in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge with a Nashville city stay. Mountains + music = the ultimate Tennessee combo.

Getting Around

Tennessee’s best explored by car—public transportation outside of major cities is pretty limited.

  • Rent a Car: Ideal for road trips through the Smokies, small towns, and scenic byways.

  • City Transit: Nashville has rideshare and scooters; Memphis has trolleys downtown.

  • Scenic Routes: Don’t miss drives like the Cherohala Skyway, Natchez Trace Parkway, or the Great Smoky Mountains scenic loop.

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