Famous for its scenic landscape, country music and Jack Daniels whiskey, beautiful Tennessee is a great vacation spot. Loaded with history and culture, it offers all sorts of resources for those looking to learn more about the country western lifestyle. Looking to immerse yourself in natural beauty and attractions, then head to the eastern part of the state and stay in beautiful cities such as Knoxville, Chattanooga and Bristol. Dance the night away in the middle region of the state in Nashville, the heart of Tennessee’s musical heritage. The city is also a popular choice for history buffs. Or maybe you decide to choose West Tennessee where a combination of soulful music, historical drama and natural wonders can be enjoyed. No matter what your choice may be, a fantastic vacation in Tennessee is guaranteed!
Where to stay
What better way to experience Tennessee like a true local then by staying under the roof of a bed and breakfast where the friendly owner is happy to offer tips which will bring you off the beaten tourist track. Whether you wish to find accommodation in the north, south, east or west of Tennessee, you certainly won’t be disappointed with the charming rentals on offer throughout this picturesque state. Check out the cosy private rooms in Chattanooga, or make your choice depending on the delicious breakfast served in a B&B in Nashville. Those looking for something a bit more independent can skip down to Jackson like Johnny Cash and June Carter and enjoy a wonderful stay in an apartment or cottage. Or gather the family under one roof and unwind in a beautiful holiday home in Tallahassee which can be found nestled by the Smoky Mountains.
Fun Facts
- Tennessee has the biggest freshwater aquarium in the world which contains over 7,000 animals and more than 300 species of birds, reptiles and mammals!
- The first atomic bomb in the world was built in Tennessee!
- Miniature golf was invented in Tennessee!
- The Grand Ole Opry is the longest live radio program in the world and is broadcast from Tennessee!
- It is illegal in Tennessee to fish off another persons hook!
Things to see and do in Tennessee
Throw on your finest cowboy hat and start planning your musical tour of Nashville, home to the legendary attractions of country music including Opryland, Ryman Auditorium, Music Row and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Haven’t had enough music yet, then head to Graceland, Elvis's 14-acre estate in Memphis. Pop in and out of its stunning rooms and learn all about Elvis from his humble beginnings to his status as perhaps the most famous rock ‘n’ roll artist in the world. It would be a shame to visit Memphis without seeing the famous Sun Studio which created some of the best selling songs of all time from legends such as BB King, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Roy Orbison.Relax after all the line dancing and slick rock ‘n’ moves and embark on your journey of some of Tennessee’s most beautiful natural attractions. The Ruby Falls Caverns in Chattanooga is a thrilling 145-foot waterfall located on Lookout Mountain which visitors can enjoy a tour of. When staying in your cosy cabin in Gatlinburg, take a one-way road tour parallel to Roaring Fork Creek, stopping next to the waterfall known as "Place of a Thousand Drops". Get more active and spend the day catching fish on the the Tellico River.
Tennessee its not limited to its landscapes or musical history. Visitors to the area can also enjoy a fascinating tour of Hermitage which is the home of President Andrew Jackson. The daring kind can feel the buzz at the Nashville Superspeedway, while those on a family holiday can spend hours of fun at Pigeon Forge. If animals or your thing then head right away to the Tennessee Aquarium or Memphis Zoo or both!
Getting around
Various interstate highways crossing the United States offer easy access into Tennessee. Cars can be rented at the airport by those flying into the Memphis International Airport and Nashville International Airport. Other smaller airports which service the state operate in Maryville (Knoxville), Chattanooga and Bristol. Visitors staying in accommodation in southern Tennessee can fly into the Huntsville Airport in Alabama.Automobiles are the primary form of travel in Tennessee, allowing guests to travel to each wonderful area and enjoy the spectacular scenery at their own ease. Greyhound offers bus service throughout Tennessee from other major cities, however Amtrak only offer the City of New Orleans train service which stops in Memphis and Newbern. Visitors can also avail of public bus systems within these cities. Guests planning to head along the Mississippi River or the surrounding areas are advised to come by car as travel by train is not an option to central or eastern parts of Tennessee. When travelling within the city or town of choice, visitors can use city buses, neighborhood shuttles and fixed-route bus services.