Whether you’re planning a visit to Tennessee or happen to be a lucky resident, you’ll agree that there’s so much to explore in the Volunteer State. While most people think of hot chicken, Nashville, and live music when considering the state’s most famous attractions, in truth, there are countless hidden gems in Tennessee to explore. So, travelers, we have some hidden gems in Tennessee that will blow the tourist traps out of the water. We’ve put ten below, so take a look!

1. The Lost Sea - Sweetwater
Brent Moore / Flickr
When it comes to hidden gems in Tennessee, the Lost Sea takes the cake. Did you know that Tennessee boasts the biggest underwater lake in the United States? Discovered in 1905, the Lost Sea is part of the Craighead Caverns system. Learn more about what makes the Lost Sea such a hidden gem in Tennessee.
2. Townsend
wsilver / Flickr
East Tennessee sure knows how to bring it when it comes to darling towns and gorgeous views. Check out Townsend, small in size but big in character. In fact, it's even considered to be one of the best small towns in Tennessee.
3. Nancy Ward Gravesite - Benton
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
A Cherokee priestess and prophetess, Nancy Ward, or, "Nanye' hi" was an influential and historical figure in her own right. Take a spin down to Benton and brush up on your Native American history. Tennessee has a lot of it, and unfortunately, it's consistently overshadowed by the heavy effect of the Civil War.
4. Museum of Appalachia - Clinton
Knorby / Flickr
Founded in 1969, the Museum of Appalachia was created to pay homage to farming and pioneer life in Tennessee. Whether you're fascinated by history or simply appreciate unique museums, you'll find a lot to uncover here. Plus, the museum hosts one-of-a-kind events throughout the year, such as goat yoga. Learn more about this little-known museum in Tennessee.
5. Market Square - Knoxville
Brook Peterson / Flickr
Market Square in the heart of Knoxville is where history and hospitality come together. You can learn about the city's extensive past or browse one-of-a-kind local goods all in the same block. Plus, Market Square is situated right next to Krutch Park, making it an ideal destination for traveling with kiddos. Learn more about Market Square, one of the top hidden gems in Tennessee.

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6. Jack Daniel's Distillery - Lynchburg
Wikimedia
Unless you have your head buried under a rock, you most definitely know that the Jack Daniel's Distillery is in Tennessee. But did you know you could take a tour of it?! Probably not. Which is why you need to grab your honey and take a tour, then get yourself a bunch of whiskey to take home. Because you're going to want to have a steady supply for the rest of your life - it's that dang good.
7. Big South Fork National Park
Wikimedia
This gorgeous national park is usually sloughed off as people hurry in droves to the Great Smoky Mountains. If you're looking for a gorgeous view, great vacation and a lot of bang for your buck, then head to the national park even Tennesseans forget about. It's the solid nature folk that come here, y'all. Learn more about what makes Big South Fork National River Park such a must-see destination.
8. Bell Buckle
Brian Hendrix / Flickr
This tiny town is tucked way back in the heart of middle Tennessee, but it has a ton of character and the sweetest antique stores you ever did see. Make sure to stop by the Moon Pie + RC Cola Festival in June, if you have the chance. It's a hoot!
9. Bald River Falls - Tellico Plains
Sarah Kuchi / Flickr
Bald River Falls or Baby Falls right up the road are precisely the kind of places you want to go if you're looking to beat the crowds. Burgess and Cummins Falls can get a bit chummy, but these gorgeous spots off the beaten path are sure to make it in your scrapbook.
10. Peabody Hotel Ducks - Memphis
Wikimedia
Last but not least on our list of hidden gems in Tennessee is the Peabody Hotel and its famous residents. The Peabody Hotel in Memphis is not only supposed to be verily haunted, but it's home to a bunch of domesticated ducks that wander through the main lobby and down the halls. How wonderfully bizarre is that? Learn more about why the Peabody Hotel is a must-see destination in Tennessee.

Dear Tennesseans: tell us some more, would you please? You’re the real Rocky Top enthusiasts, and we’re dying to know some hidden gems in Tennessee you wouldn’t mind sharing with the rest of the world. Be sure to let us know in the comments below!

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More to Explore

Hidden Gems In Tennessee

Beth C. | June 21, 2021

What are some other hidden gems in Tennessee?

The article above highlights some must-see hidden gems in Tennessee, but the list is by no means exhaustive. That's because the Volunteer State is positively brimming with little-known wonders, both natural and man-made, that deserve to be explored. Some other hidden gems in Tennessee include Cumberland Caverns, the Blue Plum Festival, Memphis Zoo, Ryman Auditorium, Lost and Found Records, the Tennessee Aquarium, Bell Witch Cave, and Goats Music and More Festival. Learn more about these hidden gems in Tennessee worth checking out.

Does Tennessee have any natural wonders?

One of the best parts about exploring Tennessee is the opportunity to embrace the great outdoors. From beautiful mountains to rolling foothills, rushing rivers, caverns, and waterfalls, there's simply no shortage of ways to be awe-inspired by the landscape. Some top natural wonders in Tennessee to experience are the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the naturally-formed bridge at Sewanee, Fall Creek Falls, Ruby Falls, the Lost Sea, and any of Tennessee's breathtaking state parks. Learn more about these must-see natural wonders in Tennessee.

Are there any hidden waterfalls in Tennessee?

If you're looking to explore some off-the-beaten-path destinations, you can't go wrong with a hidden waterfall hike. Fortunately, Tennessee has plenty of them. Rainbow Falls Trail is at the top of the list, and it's located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This 5.5-mile trail is considered to be difficult, but rest assured that your efforts will be well-rewarded once you reach the stunning cascade that is Rainbow Falls. Check out some other beautiful hidden waterfalls in Tennessee.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
The Lost Sea Adventure, 140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874, USA
Townsend, TN 37882, USA
Nancy Ward Gravesite State Park, Benton, TN 37307, USA
Museum of Appalachia, 2819 Andersonville Hwy, Clinton, TN 37716, USA
Market Place Boulevard, Market Pl Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA
Jack Daniel's Distillery, 280 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, TN 37352, USA
Parker Branch, Tennessee 37841, USA
Bell Buckle, TN 37020, USA
Bald River Falls, River Rd, Tellico Plains, TN 37385, USA
The Peabody Memphis, 149 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, USA