Tennessee is a unique state that appeals to thrill seekers, music enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. Knowing where to start with so many cities boasting unique cultural aspects is hard. If you want to visit mountainous regions sheltered under a lush cover of trees, get lost amidst freely floating music in the streets, and have unique culinary experiences, you’ve chosen the perfect holiday destination.
Here are some of the most vibrant cities in Tennessee, thrumming with unique cultural aspects that need to be on your holiday bucket list!
Reader's Roadmap
1. Gatlinburg
If you are a nature lover with an avid admiration for majestic mountains and outdoor activities, Gatlinburg should be at the top of your list. Gatlinburg provides access to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which is known to have the most number of visitors in the country, surpassing even Yosemite and Yellowstone. You can soak up the sun while hiking and biking on numerous winding trails. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of some teeming wildlife, including elk, deer, and mighty black bears.
Gatlinburg’s other top-notch attractions include the Gatlinburg Space Needle, Anakeesta, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and all the amazing restaurants in the area.
When planning your trip to Gatlinburg, it is wise to note the number of tourist balloons in the peak season, so you should book ahead. Numerous cozy condos in Gatlinburg can offer you fully equipped kitchens, private balconies with vibrant views, and amenities like heated outdoor pools that can be perfect for relaxing downtime.
2. Memphis
Memphis is widely known as the city that birthed the infamous Blues music. It also hosts Sun Studio, which propelled musicians like Elvis Presley and B.B King to fame and stardom. The city has a unique, vibrant charm with something for everyone.
You can walk along the lively Beale Street, lit by the neon lights of various bars, shops, and restaurants. A relaxing walk in this city is incomplete without budding musicians serenading you at every turn. Southern dishes like barbecue and buttery grits are the ultimate feast here.
However, it is known for more than just mouth-watering food and soul music. You can also dive into history by visiting the National Civil Rights Museum, previously known as the Lorraine Motel. It was where the unfortunate assassination of world-renowned Martin Luther King Jr. occurred.
3. Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge may look like a small, rustic town with little to offer, but it is bustling with fun activities. The town hosts theme parks like Dollywood with exquisite rollercoasters and shows and water parks like Splash Country. If you have an inner child bursting to come out, you’re at the right place.
If you want an engaging museum experience, you can visit the Titanic Museum Attraction and if you want rides, shopping, and food in one place, visit The Island in Pigeon Forge. Fans of country music will be in awe of the various musical theatres and museums with music themes. They can offer the perfect chance to spend quality time with family.
However, you can enjoy more than just the town life of shopping malls and souvenir shops. If you are seeking thrill and adventure, Pigeon Forge is known to have numerous alpine coasters and zip lines that allow you to view the breathtaking panoramic view firsthand while cruising through the air. You can also camp outdoors and enjoy a night sleeping under the stars.
4. Chattanooga
Chattanooga is a beautiful city situated along the Tennessee River. It is rightfully termed the “Scenic City,” which directly contrasts with how polluted it was a few years ago. The necessary urban revitalization has ensured the city retains its rustic charm while adopting sustainable practices.
History buffs can have an interesting time scouring through various historical sights and battlefields that Civil War troops once inhabited. One such famous place is the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, which can take you down the historical lane. The city also hosts a mesmerizing map of quaint old-brick houses amidst modern breweries and restaurants serving delicious Southern food.
Chattanooga is known as the technological hub, one of the first places in America to offer speedy Internet to the citizens. However, it does boast lush natural attractions and countless outdoor activities. You can hike up Lookout Mountain to get a bird’s eye view of the captivating sunset or stroll along the serene Riverwalk.
5. Knoxville
Were you aware that before Nashville took over the title of the capital city, it was initially awarded to Knoxville? It is the third largest city in Tennessee, famous for its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains Park. Hence, if you want a balance between enjoying city life and living amidst nature, you are at the right place.
Considering Knoxville is close to the Tennessee River, numerous visitors are known to opt for dreamy sunset cruises. You can also go kayaking or canoeing if you seek something more challenging. However, you may not have time for boating once the city’s unique charm entrances you.
One of the most famous landmarks in Knoxville is a massive gilt tower known as Sunsphere. It is 266 feet tall and serves as an observatory to catch magnificent views. The city’s youthful vibe often draws several people into their local activities, such as college football, where the stadiums can host over 100,000 people.
You can also delight your taste buds by sampling the local craft beers as you attend seasonal art festivals and cultural events.
To Conclude
Tennessee is a great state with myriad activities, allowing you to balance natural beauty and city life charms. The state has vibrant streets, soulful music, majestic mountains, and cultural art. There is no lack of entertainment here as each city can provide you with different sights to gawk at. Whether you want to immerse yourself in thrilling outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and zip lines or explore musical streets laden with art and mouth-watering food, this state has it all.