7 Underrated Places In Tennessee That Even Natives Have Never Heard Of

Tennessee has been a hot tourist destination for years, welcoming droves of visitors to the highly musical towns of Memphis and Nashville. Known for its beautiful natural vistas and cities chock full of culture and history, Tennessee is a prime spot for any family vacation or couples weekend trip. If you’re looking for a few state deep cuts, though, check out these seven underrated places in Tennessee. Some are so underground that not even the locals have heard of them!

The Arcade Restaurant - Facebook

As the oldest restaurant in Memphis, the Arcade Restaurant is well worth a visit or two. This westside gem is often forgotten on a trip through Tennessee, although it offers some of the best southern fare in the city. Come for the history and warm atmosphere, stay for the comforting southern staples on the menu.

Address: 540 S Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103

Timothy Wildey - Flickr

This six-mile, one-way driving route shows off some of the most beautiful views in the Great Smoky Mountains. If you're looking for a beautiful experience without the requried hiking miles, then a drive down the waterfall studded nature trail is right up your alley. You can even pack a lunch and indulge in a picnic spent amidst an old-growth forest.

Address: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Advertisement

cisc1970 - Flickr

Known as one of the great American hiking trails of Tennessee, Trillium Gap boasts a 3,200 foot elevation change and a gorgeous view of Grotto Falls. You can follow it all the way up Mount Leconte, one of the tallest mountains on the eastern side of the state. The trail is accessible by the aforementioned Roaring Fork Motor Trail, so you can experience both in the same day if you're so inclined.

Address: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Advertisement

Related Stories

Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Tennessee

There's A Breathtaking Castle Tucked Away Near This Tennessee National Park

Drawing BBQ Inspiration From Texas, Kansas City, And Beyond, Honey Fire BBQ Company Is Bringing A New Kind Of 'Cue To Tennessee

Brent Moore - Flickr

The city of Sewanee boasts the gorgeous University of the South as well as the oft-hiked Sewanee Perimeter Trail. This tiny town boasts only 2,300 inhabitants, but the beauty of the area is vast and full of artists and students. We'd highly recommend visiting for the quaint beauty of the tiny town. It's truly an oasis!

megan hopkins - Flickr

Ijams Nature Center is located in Knoxville, Tennessee, and it's made up of 300 acres, boasting a protected wildlife habitat and over ten miles of hiking trails. This Knox County nature preserve offers all sorts of events throughout the year as well as bike and canoe rentals. Family and budget friendly, this is a great place to visit if you're in Knoxville.

Address: 2915 Island Home Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37920

Mr. Littlehand - Flickr

You can book a guided tour through the famed and historic Sun Studio, an iconic recording space where country darlings Johnny and June Cash as well as rock 'n roll god Elvis Presley recorded their music. This is a prime spot for music buffs, and it's located in Memphis - not Nashville - Tennessee.

Address: 706 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103

Ryan Guill - Flickr

The town of Collierville boasts everything from large, gorgeous homes to an intimate downtown area that's perfect for wandering on a lazy summer day. This hidden gem boasts all sorts of parks and outdoor activities alongside hidden restaurant gems like the Silver Caboose and Cafe Piazza.

If you’re looking for more fun in Tennessee, this underrated winery has some of the most beautiful views in the state. Most folks have never even heard of it!