Tennessee Road Map Free Travel Guide

Introduction

Tennessee is a state in the southeastern region of the United States, known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the bustling city of Nashville, there is something for everyone in Tennessee. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Tennessee.

Attractions

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, and for good reason. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and panoramic views, the park is a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and wildlife watching in the park.

Graceland

Graceland is the former home of the legendary musician Elvis Presley. The mansion has been turned into a museum, allowing visitors to see how Elvis lived and view his extensive collection of memorabilia. The museum also includes exhibits on his music, movies, and personal life.

Hidden Gems

Roan Mountain

Roan Mountain is a hidden gem in Tennessee that offers stunning views and a unique ecosystem. The mountain is home to the world’s largest natural rhododendron garden and has several hiking trails that lead to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

The Lost Sea

The Lost Sea is an underground lake located in Sweetwater, Tennessee. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave system and ride on a glass-bottomed boat to see the lake and its inhabitants up close.

Food Scene

Hot Chicken

Hot chicken is a Nashville specialty that has become popular throughout the state. The dish consists of fried chicken that is coated in a spicy seasoning and served with pickles and white bread. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and Hattie B’s are two of the most famous hot chicken restaurants in Nashville.

Barbecue

Tennessee is known for its barbecue, with different regions of the state having their own unique style. Memphis is famous for its dry rub ribs, while East Tennessee is known for its pulled pork. Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Peg Leg Porker are two popular barbecue restaurants in Nashville.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museums

Many museums in Tennessee offer free admission, including the Tennessee State Museum and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Visitors can also take a free tour of the Tennessee State Capitol building.

State Parks

Tennessee has over 50 state parks that offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Many of these parks have low or no admission fees.

Outdoor Adventures

Whitewater Rafting

Tennessee has several rivers that offer whitewater rafting opportunities, including the Ocoee River and the Nantahala River. These rivers have rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV.

Ziplining

Tennessee has several zipline courses that allow visitors to soar through the treetops and see the state’s beautiful landscapes from a unique perspective. The Gatlinburg Zipline and SkyBridge and the Adventureworks Zipline Forest are two popular options.

Historical Landmarks

The Hermitage

The Hermitage was the home of President Andrew Jackson and is now a museum that showcases his life and legacy. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and grounds and see artifacts from Jackson’s presidency.

The Alamo

The Alamo is a historic site in San Antonio, Texas, but Tennessee played a significant role in the battle. Many Tennesseans fought and died at the Alamo, and a monument in Nashville honors their sacrifice.

Family-Friendly Activities

Dollywood

Dollywood is a theme park in Pigeon Forge that offers rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. The park also has a water park and several restaurants and shops.

Discovery Park of America

The Discovery Park of America is a museum and theme park in Union City that celebrates science, technology, and history. The park has interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a 50-acre heritage park.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Bell Witch Cave

The Bell Witch Cave is located in Adams, Tennessee, and is said to be haunted by the spirit of a witch. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and learn about the legend of the Bell Witch.

The World’s Largest Cedar Bucket

The World’s Largest Cedar Bucket is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and is exactly what it sounds like – a giant cedar bucket. Visitors can take a photo with the bucket and learn about its history.

Natural Wonders

Cumberland Caverns

Cumberland Caverns is a cave system in McMinnville that offers guided tours of its underground chambers and rock formations. The cave also has a concert hall that hosts live music events.

Rock City

Rock City is a natural attraction located on Lookout Mountain that offers panoramic views of seven states. Visitors can also explore the gardens and rock formations.

Vibrant Nightlife

Broadway in Nashville

Broadway in Nashville is a street that is lined with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Visitors can enjoy a night out on the town and hear some of the best music in the country.

Beale Street

Beale Street is a historic district in Memphis that is known for its blues music and nightlife. Visitors can hear live music at several venues and enjoy food and drinks at local restaurants and bars.

Local Markets

The Nashville Farmers’ Market

The Nashville Farmers’ Market is a year-round market that offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods. The market also hosts events and workshops throughout the year.

The Chattanooga Market

The Chattanooga Market is a weekly market that features local vendors, live music, and food trucks. Visitors can browse handmade crafts and sample local foods.

Beaches and Mountains

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a mountain town that is known for its outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Visitors can hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift, or explore the town’s shops and restaurants.

Reelfoot Lake

Reelfoot Lake is a natural lake located in the northwest corner of Tennessee. The lake is known for its fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities, including bald eagles and pelicans.

Cultural Immersion

The National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum is located in Memphis and tells the story of the American civil rights movement. The museum is located at the site where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and includes exhibits on his life and legacy.

The Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum is located in Nashville and showcases contemporary and historic art from around the world. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs.

Art and Music Scene

The Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is a historic music venue in Nashville that has hosted some of the biggest names in music. The venue is known for its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere.

The Knoxville Museum of Art

The Knoxville Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum that features works by regional and national artists. The museum also hosts educational programs and events.

Walking Tours

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum offers a guided tour of the history of rock and soul music in Memphis. Visitors can see exhibits on Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and other legendary musicians.

The Nashville Walking Tour

The Nashville Walking Tour is a guided tour of the city’s historic sites and landmarks. Visitors can see the Tennessee State Capitol, the Ryman Auditorium, and other important sites.

Architectural Marvels

The Parthenon

The Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece. The structure is located in Nashville’s Centennial Park and houses an art museum.