Tennessee is widely recognized as the birthplace of country music, but it also boasts a rich historical heritage and several tourist attractions.
Don’t bother browsing any farther if you’re trying to find recommended tourist destinations.
A list of the top 30 exciting activities in the Volunteer State.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see if you’re looking for a memorable trip in Tennessee.
It is the most visited national park in the United States and spans both the Blue Ridge and the Great Smoky Mountains.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to remarkable fauna, rich historical sites, and breathtaking natural features, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the earliest publicly sponsored parks in the country.
The park straddles the North Carolina-Tennessee border, and is also traversed by the world-famous Appalachian Trail.
Beginning from the front gate in the quaint and colorful town of Gatlinburg, you may go for a stroll and see what all the fuss is about.
The park itself has a number of trails available, including the popular Alum Cave Trail.
The structures that have been conserved at Cades Cove are spectacular.
Address: 107 Park Headquarters Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States
2. Ryman Auditorium
When it first opened in 1885, the Ryman Auditorium was hailed as the “Carnegie of the South.”
The area originally came into public view when preacher Sam Jones had a tent revival there.
Nashville businessman Thomas G. Ryman was among the estimated 5,000 in attendance.
After Ryman converted to Christianity, he decided to devote his life and money to Jones’ cause by erecting the Union Gospel Tabernacle in his honor.
After Ryman’s death, the auditorium was renamed in his honor, becoming the Ryman Auditorium we know today.
Ryman Auditorium, formerly regarded as the boring “Mother Church of Country Music,” is now one of Tennessee’s most popular tourist destinations because to its revitalization.
As a result of its transformation from the original home of the Grand Old Opry into the prestigious venue it is today, the Ryman Auditorium has become a hot commodity among famous musicians.
It’s one of the best sites to see in Tennessee if you’re a fan of country music, and it has 2,362 seats ready for visitors.
Address: 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219, United States
3. National Civil Rights Museum
The National Civil Rights Museum is among the greatest and most enlightening historical sites in Tennessee.
Inaugurated in 1991, the museum educates the public about the American Civil Rights Movement’s origins, developments, and lasting impact on the global movement for human rights.
The museum is really a collection of several historic buildings, each of which houses a separate museum.
The incredible Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was tragically slain at the Lorraine Motel, which is now the site of one of the museum’s buildings.
That’s why there are so many hands-on displays in the museum devoted to remembering the great guy.
It would be a shame to visit Tennessee and not stop by the National Civil Rights Museum.
The museum offers guided tours of the exhibits that last for two hours, self-guided tours, and event rentals.
Address: 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
4. The Parthenon
Most people would be surprised to learn that one of Tennessee’s tourist attractions is the Parthenon, a building they might expect to see in Athens, Greece.
As a matter of fact, it may be one of the top 10 locations to see in the state.
This sculpture was originally commissioned for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition in 1897 and is a full-scale reproduction of the ancient Greek Parthenon.
This building almost didn’t survive to the present day; demolition plans were scrapped because the Parthenon proved so popular.
It now serves as an art museum and can be seen in Centennial Park; inside, visitors may view 63 paintings by American painters from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Other exhibits and shows are shown at various times of the year.
It is covered in exact copies of the sculptures that once stood in the original Parthenon.
Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
5. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
If you’re a history geek, you should definitely check out the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.
After all, what better symbol of a state’s progress toward globalization than its railroads?
In 1960, when it initially opened, this entertaining museum was essentially a Western Union equipment storage and exhibition facility.
East Chattanooga’s first facility opened in 1970, and it was expanded to accommodate more cars after the Southern Railway discontinued passenger service.
Plus, the locomotives are still operational, so tourists may have a real steam train trip.
Railway preservationists Robert M. Soule and Paul H. Merriman founded the National Railway Historical Society, of which the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a component.
Their goal was straightforward: to keep steam locomotives and other railway artifacts around for future generations to learn from and appreciate.
This museum has become one of the most interesting in the state thanks to their efforts.
Address: 4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421, United States
6. Stones River National Battlefield
Murfreesboro, Tennessee plays host to the Stones River National Battlefield.
The Battle of Stones was one of the most deadly engagements of the Civil War.
Today’s park, which covers 570 acres, was established as a tribute to the battle’s significance to American history.
Stones River National Cemetery is located on this land, and it has the oldest Civil War monument still in existence, Hazen’s Brigade Monument, along with almost 7,000 other burials.
Today, it stands as one of the most convincing arguments for the need of the conflict it depicts.
In addition to being a historic site, the Stones River National Battlefield is also the site of a variety of events.
Volunteers and Park Service rangers frequently host interpreted hikes, seminars, tours, and other events throughout the park for visitors of all ages.
If a trip to Tennessee is in the works, add this destination to your itinerary.
Address: 3501 Old Nashville Hwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, United States
7. The Titanic Museum
Odd as it may be to link Tennessee with the RMS Titanic, the Volunteer State is home to the world’s largest (and perhaps greatest) permanent Titanic museum.
Pigeon Forge, where the Titanic Museum is situated, is also home to Dollywood, another attraction that will appear later on this list of things to do in Tennessee.
The Titanic Museum, which opened to the public in 2010, is shaped like the RMS Titanic and is half the size of the original but to exacting scale percentages.
There are more than 400 relics from the legendary ship on display in the museum’s twenty fascinating halls.
Each one is meticulously crafted to replicate the exquisite luxury of the original Titanic.
Its $25 million price tag is indicative of the wealth of amenities found within.
The admission price includes a boarding card bearing the name of a real Titanic passenger and indicating the individual’s class of travel.
In this game, you get to experience the Titanic as a passenger, and when you’re done looking about, you’ll find the Titanic Memorial Room, where you may see the names of all the people who were on board, including your own, and learn whether or not they made it to safety.
Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States
8. Lookout Mountain
One of Tennessee’s most stunning natural features is Lookout Mountain, a range of mountains.
Its location in Tennessee is in Chattanooga, which is just across the state line with Georgia.
Cherokee word for “opposite mountains,” which may or may not be the reason for the name.
Truth be said, Lookout Mountain is quite significant in the annals of humankind.
It depicted the area where the last fight between the Cherokees and the whites took place.
While on the Nickajack Expedition, something occurred.
As its name implies, this was also the site of a major Civil War battle in the United States, known as the Battle of Lookout Mountain.
It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, so there is enough to do and see there.
There is a beautiful waterfall at Ruby Falls Cavern.
Visitors interested in history will enjoy both the Incline Railway and the Chattanooga Museum.
Rock City also hosts events with humorous names like the Fat Man’s Squeeze and the Lover’s Leap.
Address: Chattanooga, TN 37409, United States
9. The Tennessee State Capitol Building
The Nashville location of Tennessee’s state capitol, built in honor of the state’s natives, first opened to the public in 1859.
The impressive structure is one of the greatest in Tennessee to see since it is a US Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The architect William Strickland passed away while the structure was still being erected.
His remains, as well as those of President James Polk, are housed in the structure.
Other memorials to the dead may be seen on the grounds, including sculptures of Sam Davis, Andrew Jackson, Andrew Johnson, and Sergeant Alvin York.
Tours with a guide are available once a week.
Address: 600 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Nashville, TN 37243, United States
10. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
For those who are already familiar with the state’s reputation as the home of sultry drawls and twangy banjo plucks, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, Tennessee, is a must-see.
It’s been there for well over half a century, and its mission has always been to document and document country music’s development while also conserving its rich past.
Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music was the name of the museum’s major exhibit for many years at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
It tells stories about the traditions, changes, and beginnings of the music genre using interactive touchscreens, images, antique movies, and relics.
Seeing that display alone makes a trip to see her one of the most entertaining things to do in the Volunteer State.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is often referred to as “the Smithsonian of country music,” and with good cause.
It has displays for a broad variety of industry legends, from Blak Shelton and Charlie Daniels to Zac Brown and Taylor Swift.
Address: 222 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
11. Beale Street
Located downtown Memphis and running from East Street to the Mississippi River, Beale Street is one of the most well-known thoroughfares in all of Tennessee.
It’s about two miles long, and it’s widely considered to be one of the top tourist destinations in the area because to all the great restaurants and bars that play blues and soul music.
But Beale Street is more than just a great place to have fun; it’s also a historic landmark.
Numerous festivals and outdoor performances pay tribute to its place in the development of blues music in the United States.
It’s hard to miss Beale Street in Tennessee if you’re searching for things to do, even if you’re not a lover of the genre.
The heart of Memphis’s nightlife, Beale Street is always buzzing with energy and excitement, making it the perfect place to spend a weekend.
Address: Memphis, TN 38103, United States
12. Sun Studio
When it first opened in 1950, Sun Studio was called the Memphis Recording Service and it had many characteristics with Sun Records.
Today, it is one of the many interesting historical sites in Tennessee, famous as the spot where rock ‘n’ roll music was first performed.
This location is known as Rocket 88 because the Delta Cats and Jackie Brenston recorded it there in 1951.
Since then, numerous famous musicians including Roy Orbison, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley have all worked at what is now one of Tennessee’s many exciting tourist destinations.
Reopened under its present, more contemporary name by Gary Hardy in 1987, the studio has maintained its status as the most renowned recording facility in the world.
Even though it is still in active use today, Sun Studio now provides tours and a complimentary shuttle to the Rock N’ Soul Museum and Graceland.
A modest gift shop selling apparel and trinkets is also available.
Irrespective of your feelings about rock ‘n’ roll, this is one of those sights that you simply must witness.
Address: 706 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
13. Belle Meade Plantation
When John Harding initially established Belle Meade Plantation in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1807, it consisted of a log cottage on 250 acres of land.
Celebrities, gentlemen, and even presidents were among the many people that visited the plantation estate during its heyday.
With the help of the wealthiest family in the area, it eventually expanded to cover 5,400 acres and flourish as a horse farm complete with a train station, a Revival-style palace, and even a deer park.
Slaves, who toiled and cared for the land, had their own living quarters.
There are just 34 acres left, but it’s still worth a visit if you’re touring Tennessee.
It’s an excellent window into the past since it shows life as it really was.
You may take a guided tour of the estate, or you can wander the grounds and see the slave quarters, among other things.
Address: 110 Leake Ave, Nashville, TN 37205, United States
14. Tennessee Aquarium
Two structures make up the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, which is run entirely by donations.
The River Journey display is the largest and most impressive freshwater aquarium in the world, spanning a huge 130,000 square feet.
The animals and fish found in rivers are the main emphasis of this display.
The second structure is the newest, and it’s called Ocean Journey. It’s all about the sea and the creatures who live there.
The Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute is hard at work preserving freshwater habitats while also providing boat rides, educating visitors on a wide variety of aquatic species, and preserving the region’s rich biodiversity.
If you’re a marine life nut like me, this is one of the best places to visit in the Volunteer State.
15. Memphis Zoo
Among the best things to do in Tennessee, a visit to the Memphis Zoo is a must for animal lovers and families on vacation.
Ya Ya and Le Le are the names of the two giant pandas who call this zoo home; it is one of just four in the United States to have them.
Adonis, the oldest known hippopotamus, lived there for 54 years before he died in 1965.
However, the zoo is home to more than pandas and hippopotamuses.
More than 3,500 different types of animals may be found here.
Animals of the Night, Once Upon a Farm, Northwest Passage, and Primate Canyon are just a few of the exciting exhibits you may see while at the zoo.
Each exhibit was designed to mimic natural environments, so the animals could live in comfort.
Address: 2000 Prentiss Pl, Memphis, TN 38112, United States
16. The Hermitage
The Hermitage was constructed between 1819 and 1821, and it is a stunning example of architecture from that time period.
Because it was formerly the residence of the 7th President of the United States, Andrew Jackson, it is now one of the most visited attractions in the state of Tennessee.
The original Hermitage was built in the Federal style out of brick, and it had eight bedrooms, a summer kitchen in the basement, and nine fireplaces.
The President’s wife, Rachel Jackson, was put to rest beside her husband, Andrew, in the Hermitage’s garden since it was her favorite location in the world.
Their ultimate resting place is marked with a tomb.
Now that the Hermitage is a museum that has been painstakingly rebuilt to resemble precisely as it did during Jackson’s tenure, there’s no excuse not to enjoy touring the grounds now.
This Tennessee museum has a park-like layout, complete with gardens and forests, and features an extensive collection of historical papers and artifacts.
Address: 4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States
17. Graceland
Graceland is one of the top attractions in Tennessee, and not only for Elvis lovers.
When it comes to American homes, only the White House receives more tourists than this one does over the year.
John Stamos himself hosts an iPad-based interactive tour of his estate, which has plenty of opportunities for audience participation.
You may see the living room, kitchen, his father’s office, the television room, and even the exciting Jungle Room on a tour of Graceland, all of which are preserved in the exact condition in which Elvis left them.
You may also see Elvis’ personal jets and wind out with a trip to the Zen Meditation Garden.
The rock and roll king and his family were put to rest here.
In 1982, Presley’s surviving family members turned the house into a museum that is available to the public.
This Tennessee landmark may now claim the honor of being included on the National Register of Historic Places.
Address: Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116, United States
18. The Bell Witch Cave
Among these Tennessee landmarks, the Bell Witch Cave stands out as one of the most unusual.
Kate the Bell Witch, whose legend is almost as terrible as she is, inspired the name of this place.
Even Andrew Jackson, who supposedly stopped over to investigate the commotion, was frightened by her antics, according to urban legend.
Her story is straightforward: in 1817, a witch started making scary noises on a farm in Tennessee, where a family named the Bells lived.
She ultimately became violent and poisoned the family patriarch.
In the end, the daughter broke off her engagement and the agony stopped since she was no longer afraid of her.
The legend of one of these heroes, though, is a good one.
A group of kids were exploring when they came across a karst cave that was 500 feet long. Unfortunately, one of them became trapped within.
He screamed for help, and a voice from nowhere calmed him down before a phantom woman yanked him to safety.
Afterward, the witch purportedly taught him about cave safety and disappeared.
This weekend, if you go there, you’ll hear competing accounts.
Though some say the Bell Witch was never truly terrible, others insist the cave is downright terrifying.
Even if you’re not a fan of the supernatural, Bell Cave is still worth a look.
Address: 430 Keysburg Rd, Adams, TN 37010, United States
19. The Crystal Shrine Grotto
To the untrained eye, the Crystal Shrine Grotto would never guess that it was built in the 1930s from concrete.
This is one of those tourist destinations in Tennessee that could leave you scratching your head, what with its strange-looking stones, religious iconography, and simply remarkable skill and craftsmanship.
The Crystal Shrine Grotto, like many other tourist attractions, lacks the same allure that it did when it was initially built.
Intended as a place of quiet contemplation, it now seems more like a prehistoric Christian amusement park.
The grotto was designed by artist Dionicio Rodrguez and installed in the middle of Memphis, Tennessee’s Memorial Park Cemetery to improve the grounds’ scenic value.
Almost 60 feet of a hill were excavated to produce it, and it’s ornamented with cement and quartz, which give off a wonderful, sparkling effect.
Address: 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119, United States
20. Mud Island River Park
While Mud Island River Park isn’t always included among Tennessee’s top attractions, its five-block River Walk is well worth the journey.
Why? For the simple reason that you can see the world’s fourth-longest river in a single day.
The River Walk was designed to resemble the Mississippi.
About one mile of the actual river is represented for every 30 inches of the walkway.
As you make your way along Tennessee’s section of the Mississippi, you’ll pick up fascinating facts about the state’s geography and history along the way.
At the “Gulf of Mexico,” an enclosure of an acre, the path comes to a close.
You may take a boat out on the 1.3 million gallons of water and enjoy the journey.
This is one of the best day trips you can do in the Volunteer State.
Address: 125 N Front St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
21. Grand Ole Opry
If you’re visiting Tennessee, you should make time to visit the Grand Ole Opry. It’s well-known all over the world and deserves your attention.
What we currently know as the Opry originated as a radio show in 1925 named The WSM Barn Dance.
Before moving to the Grand Ole Opry House in 1974, it was originally televised from the Ryman Auditorium.
Country music superstars like Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood continue to perform weekly at the Grand Ole Opry.
Besides the Opry’s website, the concerts may be seen on a wide variety of other broadcast outlets.
There’s a good reason it’s recognized as the birthplace of American music; it’s one of Tennessee’s top tourist destinations.
Address: 2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States
22. Adventure Science Center
If you’ve had enough of Tennessee’s music-themed or history-focused attractions, the Adventure Science Center is a must-see.
It’s great that there are things to do here that appeal to both young people and their parents.
All types of scientific themes, from the universe to biology, are covered in the center’s hands-on exhibits.
Young people may learn about space travel, test out a flight simulator, and even take a photo in a “what will I look like when I’m an adult?” booth.
There are several presentations offered, and the employees are really kind and helpful.
The Adventure Science Center features several attractions, such as the Adventure Tower and Space Chase, among many more.
The planetarium, like various other attractions, has an admission fee.
Address: 800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
23. Lost Sea Cave
Among the many stunning attractions in Tennessee, the Lost Sea Cave stands out.
It may be found inside the Craighead Caverns, which were named for a prominent Cherokee leader.
The Lost Sea is the largest lake in the United States that is not beneath the ice.
In the Great Smoky Mountains’ lowlands is where you’ll find the entrance to the Lost Sea Cave.
There’s a beautiful waterfall within, and crystal clusters dangle from the cave walls, making for an exciting and breathtaking adventure that makes you forget you’re still in Tennessee.
A lot of history can be found in these saltpeter mines, which were worked by Confederate soldiers.
Address: 140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874, United States
24. Hatch Show Print
When it comes to letterpress print shops, the Hatch Show Print is not just one of the oldest in Tennessee, but in the whole United States.
Nashville brothers CR and HH Hatch established the company in 1870.
The brand rose to prominence as one of the best and most well-known in all of Tennessee because to a combination of carefully chosen images, beautiful text, and careful composition.
Hatch Show Print’s heyday coincided with the city of Nashville’s “golden era” of country music.
In addition to his father’s success, the firm benefited from the talents of Will T. Hatch, the son of one of the founders and a master woodblock carver who made several iconic posters for stars of the country music industry.
The Country Music Hall of Fame’s lobby has shown the Hatch Show Print ever since 2013.
This location is still operating as a print company, with yearly output of over 150,000 posters.
Visit this shop in Tennessee to discover how prints are made, join in on a group drawing session, and hang out with like-minded creatives.
Address: 224 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
25. RCA Studio B
Among tourist destinations, music fans can’t go wrong with RCA Studio B.
The “Nashville Sound” country music it produced propelled the city to prominence in the 1960s.
Music legends including Waylon Jennings, Elvis Presley, and Dolly Parton all made records in this Tennessee studio.
The studio is listed on the United States’ National Registry of Historic Places, making it one of only a few of Tennessee landmarks to achieve this honor.
Today, the Country Music Hall of Fame continues to preserve the building and use it as a venue for their many concerts, tours, and programs.
Address: 1611 Roy Acuff Pl, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
26. Discovery Park of America
Tennessee’s Discovery Park of America is a must-see attraction, with 50 acres packed with amazing exhibits and hidden mysteries.
The vistas here are incredibly breathtaking, making this a must-see location.
Numerous travelers flock here each year, making it one of the busiest tourist spots in the country.
This is owing, in no little part, to the variety of exhibits it features, such as a 22,000-gallon aquarium, an earthquake simulator, and a large model of the human body.
One may find something of interest in this museum for any taste.
Address: 830 Everett Blvd, Union City, TN 38261, United States
27. Dollywood
Dollywood, reimagined by iconic country singer Dolly Parton, features several rides and shows.
However, what makes this one of the greatest sites to visit in Tennessee is that it is based on Parton’s life as a renowned singer and incorporates things like themed zones that focus on certain aspects of Parton’s personal life, such as her rise to fame and the challenges she had along the way.
Dollywood is one of the main draws for tourists to Tennessee, and it is especially appealing to those who enjoy country music.
Those not interested in Parton’s biography can also enjoy the park’s sibling attractions, such as Splash Country.
Overall, Dollywood is a must-see for all real country music enthusiasts and Dolly Parton aficionados, but even those who aren’t huge fans may find much to enjoy there.
Also, don’t miss out on Dollywood’s many events.
Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States
28. Shelby Farms Park
Shelby Farms Park is one of the most stunning natural areas in Tennessee, stretching across 4,500 acres, or more than five times the size of Central Park in New York City.
This beautiful park has over twenty different bodies of water, forty miles of paths, and is one of the largest urban parks in the United States.
Fortunately, you can rent boats, bicycles, and horses to get about this huge park.
Fishing, hiking, and even disc golf are just some of the exciting things you can do in this area.
There is a Woodland Discovery Park where kids may run about and have fun in a natural setting without worrying about the safety of their pets, and there are 120 acres of land where dogs are free to go around without a leash.
There is a long paved route called the Shelby Farm Greenline that runs from Memphis to Cordova, and it goes right through the neighborhood that shares its name.
A serious hiker can take advantage of this to relax and recharge during the ten-kilometer journey.
Any nature lover in the state of Tennessee owes it to themselves to see Shelby Farms at least once.
Address: 6903 Great View Dr N, Memphis, TN 38134, United States
29. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
It’s a wonder that may be found in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
If you have any interest in aquatic species, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-see.
Ripley’s is both the largest and most highly regarded aquarium in the United States, housing over 100,000 creatures in almost 1.5 million gallons of water.
One of the world’s longest subterranean tunnels gives visitors a wonderful view of the sharks and rays, as well as the many other intriguing animals, that reside at Ripley’s Aquarium.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is home to a wide variety of fascinating creatures, and the aquarium also conducts unique events like the popular Painting with Penguins.
Address: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States
30. Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Parrot Mountain & Gardens in Tennessee is one of the greatest sites to watch tropical birds because of the superb fusion of European architecture with the brilliant, vibrant colors of the Amazon by famous artist Thomas Kincade.
Within the park’s four acres, the parrots reside in uniquely created houses.
You may snap pictures, feed the birds, or just appreciate their colorful splendor because the birds are free to fly and roost wherever in the open.
There is a baby bird nursery at this Tennessee gem, so you may take home a feathered friend of your very own.
The vivid plumage of the birds, the rare chance to witness them soar, and the friendly parrots that will eat straight out of your hand are just a few of the highlights of this fascinating garden and park.
Tennessee has a lot to offer, and if you happen to be an animal lover, you should check out this place.
Address: 1471 McCarter Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37862, United States
Start Planning Your Trip To Tennessee
Tennessee is brimming with must-see destinations, including a wide variety of exciting landmarks and historic sites.
This list of top Tennessee attractions should have given you some ideas for a fun and memorable vacation.