Tennessee is full of wondrous experiences, but sometimes, if you’ve been around for a minute, it may feel as though you’ve done it all. We decided to scour the state (and the site!) to find thirteen unique things to do in Tennessee when it feels like everything else has been exhausted. From trains to trams to the best hidden restaurants in the state, your next adventure? Is on us.

Happy traveling!

13. Explore the state from aboard a train...
220 Willow St, Nashville, TN 37210, USA
Tennessee Central Railway Museum / Facebook
The Tennessee Central Railway has quite a few neat trips that crisscross the state, and they're family-friendly, too! Take a look at the train schedule to find the excursion right for you.
12. Wander through this award-winning - usually forgotten - park in Tennessee. It's beautiful!
Steele Creek Park, 4 Little Ln, Bristol, TN 37620, USA
M Fletcher - Flickr
Steele Creek Park is located in Bristol, Tennessee, and it's one of the most beautiful hidden gems in the state. Wander the premises if you're looking for a beautiful hike or a picnic, or simply to just enjoy the fresh air.
11. Explore our list of Tennessee's best hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
Marcy Jo's Mealhouse and Bakery / Facebook
Did your favorite hometown eatery make the list...?
10. Would you ever take an overnight ghost tour...?
520 E Main St, Red Boiling Springs, TN 37150, USA
The Thomas House Hotel - Facebook
You can find the Thomas House Hotel in Boiling Springs, Tennessee, and it is known as one of the most haunted spots in the country. They offer a weekend, overnight ghost hunting tour for those of you with thick enough skin - would YOU do it?
9. Perhaps visit the most enchanted town in Tennessee - you'll never guess what it is.
Greeneville, TN, USA
Town of Greeneville / Facebook
It's a beautiful place that's far, far from the draw of city lights. Can you guess?
8. Visit one of the most talked about restaurants in the state - it's known nationwide!
1711 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
The Catbird Seat / Facebook
The Catbird Seat is known for its stunning design, simple, streamlined eating area and high class chefs. It's quite the investment, and you'll need to make reservations a solid moment out, but it's an experience you'll never forget.

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7. Check out some of Tennessee's most iconic landmarks - they never change.
Thomas Hawk - Flickr
From the bridges to the mountains to the beautiful, expansive farmland of our state, you're sure to find a bit of Tennessee-infused nostalgia when it comes to these stunning spots.
6. Have you ever ridden this INSANE mountain coaster?
1341 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, USA
Goats on the Roof / Goat Coaster / Pigeon Forge / Facebook
We have zero words. Only daredevils need apply...
5. Take a road trip and check out the most beautiful places to see the fall colors in Tennessee.
Tim Lumley - Flickr
Tennessee is known for its beautiful autumnal season, and we scoped out the best places to visit to catch the leaves in full color. You may be surprised at a few of them! And you don't have to wait until autumn to take a drive - the mountains of Tennessee are stunning any time of year.
4. Check out the view from this cliffside Tennessee restaurant - it's insane!
1220 McClouds Trail, Duff, TN 37729, USA
McCloud Mountain Lodge, Wedding, and Event Center / Facebook
McCloud Mountain Restaurant is located in Duff, Tennessee, and offers up dinner with an absolutely-beautiful-you-totally-can't-miss-it-view. Walk the cliffside boardwalk when you're done to truly take in the whole of its beauty.
3. We have a weekend itinerary that's perfect for antique lovers.
GoogleMaps
If you haven't been on an antique road trip, now is the time to go. It's pretty amazing to see glimpses of the past as you wander the state.
2. And a riverboat cruise that will blow your mind.
151 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402, USA
Southern Belle Riverboat - Facebook
Hint: this one is NOT in Nashville. Be sure to check out the Southern Belle Riverboat website for more information on how to plan your cruise.
1. Finish up your tour of Tennessee high, high above it.
Ober Mountain Tramway Mall, 1001 Parkway #2, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
arsheffield - Flickr
The Ober Gatlinburg Tram is popular amongst locals and tourists alike, and for good reason. You simply won't have a better view of the city anywhere else.

Do you agree these are some of the best things to do in Tennessee? What are some of your recommendations? Let us know in the comment section below. We would love to hear from you!

No matter where you go, Tennessee is bound to give you a handful of memories you’ll never forget. If you’re road-tripping to any of these unique things to do in Tennessee, don’t forget to use our ultimate road-trip packing list. It will make your planning and traveling a breeze! Happy exploring!

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More to Explore

Best Things To Do In Tennessee

Katie Feldkamp | July 27, 2023

What are some of the best places to visit in Tennessee?

The Volunteer State is filled with small-town charm, and the following make the list of some of the best small towns to visit in Tennessee:

  • Mountain City
  • Maryville
  • Sweetwater
  • Bell Buckle

The names are just as charming as the towns themselves!

Where are some underrated places in Tennessee?

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make priceless memories. Fortunately, there are numerous underrated places in Tennessee where admission is free and the activity is top-notch. Consider the following:

  • If you’re near Vanderbilt University, check out the concert schedule for the Blair School of Music. There are free concerts throughout the year.
  • The Dixon Gallery and Gardens in Memphis is a breathtaking space of botanicals and exhibitions. From now until the end of 2024, admission is free.
  • Get outdoors and explore Douglas Lake in the Great Smokey Mountains
  • The Nashville Shakespeare Festival takes place every summer and although donations are encouraged, the performances are free. Be sure to bring a blanket or chair and then relax and enjoy.

Be sure to check out this article for more ideas of underrated and free places in Tennessee!

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