Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun in Tennessee

There are so many things to do in Tennessee in summer that you couldn’t possibly do it all. That is the beauty of having such fun things to do in Tennessee in summer; you will never be bored. Summer is my favorite season, and it is meant for lazy afternoons around the lake, adventures with friends, festivals, and long days of sunshine. There is nothing in life quite like it, and you don’t want to waste this lovely gift by sitting inside. So allow me to help you find some of the best Tennessee summer activities to fill your season.

Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Tennessee

Summertime is also all about vacations; fortunately, we don’t have to travel too far to find some great vacation destinations in the Volunteer State. When it comes time to clock out, gather your loved ones and prepare for some amazing family things to do in Tennessee in the summer.

1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Popularity: This park is incredibly busy, it is our country's most visited national park.

Need To Know: Parking over 15 minutes in the park does require you to obtain a parking pass, which can be bought online or at the visitor center. National park fees are not charged.

The Great Smoky Mountains are the go-to spot for vacations in Tennessee. Plan a trip to Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg right in the heart of the action (I recommend both), or stay in a less crowded place like Cosby or Townsend. Either way, the looming and towering mountains of the Smokies will be readily accessible. Spend some time hanging out by a river and cool off in the water, hike for an epic mountaintop vista, or go on a scenic drive. I have been to this park many times, and there is so much to see and do that you could easily spend a lifetime enjoying this nature lover's paradise.

2. Nashville

Location: Nashville, Tennessee

Popularity: Incredibly busy as it is the biggest city in Tennessee.

Need To Know: Maybe avoid Broadway…

Our state capital is a great spot to spend a summer vacation. Being the busiest city in Tennessee, you will find many great events and activities happening daily. Nashville is certainly known for its music scene, so make sure you catch a show while in town. Did you know that Nashville has also become a hot spot for foodies? There is a wide variety of restaurants to suit whatever your palate may be craving. While in Nashville, two staples created right in town are Nashville Hot Chicken and Goo Goo Cluster, the city's official candy, which you must try. There is also a replica of the Parthenon in a beautiful park that is worth seeing. If you are interested in history, music, food, or fun, you will find it in Nashville.

3. Chattanooga

Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Popularity: Busy but not as busy as Nashville.

Need To Know: This is a very artsy city, so make sure you take in the art while you are there.

Chattanooga is an excellent and artistic city filled with interesting attractions, both by the river and in the mountains. The city isn’t as big as Nashville, so if you don’t like crowds but still want a lot of variety in your entertainment choices, this is a wonderful place to visit on vacation. A great place to start in the city is to take the Chattanooga Ducks Tour, a guided trip around the city by land and then by the river. On a rainy day, head to the Tennessee Aquarium for a stunning look at the mysterious world of underwater creatures. There are plenty of hiking trails close by if you want to escape into the woods, and Lookout Mountain has some of Tennessee's most iconic attractions. Ruby Falls is the tallest underground waterfall in America and an awe-inspiring sight. Overall, I like this city's artistic touches and incredible natural beauty, especially during summer in TN.

Best Beaches, Lakes & Rivers To Visit In Tennessee This Summer

Summer is all about lazy afternoons and cooling off by the water, isn’t it? When you are looking for a place to cool off, a Tennessee swimming hole is a great place to be. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to cool off with these scenic waterfront spots across the Volunteer State.

4. Watauga Lake

Location: Hampton, Tennessee

Popularity: Busy on the weekends.

Need To Know: There is a beach and a separate picnic area.

Watauga Lake is my absolute favorite body of water in Tennessee. The Cherokee National Forest surrounding the lake gives you a picturesque view of crystal-clear water framed perfectly by the mountains. I have visited this lake many times and just sat with my family as we watched the sunset. The whole place is so peaceful that I could spend the whole day soaking in the sun and the scenery. If you want to go swimming, there is a beach area where you can play in the water, and if you want to have a picnic, then just down the road is a fantastic picnic area. Whether you take out a boat, sit by the water’s edge, or dip in the water, this is one of the prettiest lakes in Tennessee.

5. Rock Island State Park

Location: Rock Island, Tennessee

Popularity: Very busy.

Need To Know: Bring your kayak.

When it comes to some rivers in Tennessee, Rock Island State Park sits along the Caney Fork, and it is among the best in the state. There are a variety of activities to enjoy while exploring this beautiful state park. One of the top attractions in this park is to see Twin Falls. This is a must-see waterfall in the park, but Great Falls is also another amazing sight to see. If you want to relax on a warm summer day, go to the state park beach. Work on your tan, play in the sand, and swim in the water. If you have a kayak, launch into the water and embark on a dreamy paddle down the river, where you will see countless waterfalls.

6. The Little River

Location: Townsend, Tennessee

Popularity: Very busy.

Need To Know: Rent an inner tube to float down the river.

Around the Smokies are plenty of babbling brooks and pleasant streams to explore. We have seen many people just park off to the roadside and hang out by the water. There is one very popular river in Townsend; however, I highly recommend it. The Little River is great for families to come together and splash in the water. Are you looking for a lazy river experience? Then, a quick trip to River Rat, where you can rent a big yellow tube and allow all of your cares to melt away as you float downstream. If you prefer to dip your feet in and lie on a blanket, then the Townsend Wye is the place for you. Bring a picnic and spend the whole afternoon in this serene and peaceful place.

Parks To Visit In Tennessee This Summer

I have always said that I think our Tennessee state parks will rival some of the major national parks in our country. Do you know what makes them even better? They won’t cost you a single cent to visit. So, when it comes to free things to do in Tennessee in Summer, why not visit one of our great state parks?

7. Cummins Falls State Park

Location: Cookeville, Tennessee

Popularity: Very busy.

Need To Know: You must hike down to the waterfall and the swimming area.

Cummins Falls State Park is one of the most popular parks in Tennessee, and for good reason. This fantastic waterfall is also one of the best swimming holes in the state. Just one look at the cascading falls, and you are sure to agree that this is a supreme summer spot. Guests will have to hike to get down to the base of the waterfall, but the reward makes the effort well worth it: You get to swim in what looks like a tropical pool in paradise. What a great way to cool off this summer in Tennessee.

8. Reelfoot Lake State Park

Location: Tiptonville, Tennessee

Popularity: Busy on the weekends.

Need To Know: Don’t forget to walk the boardwalk trail.

Did you know that Reelfoot Lake is Tennessee's only natural large lake? This beautiful lake is a perfect summer getaway for those looking for a tranquil trip, lounging around the water. This state park offers some great options for getting out into the water, with scenic boat rides and launches for those who prefer to paddle alone. This lake is home to countless birds and is especially known for the bald eagles that travel through the area. The cypress trees make this a unique spot for a grand boardwalk trail if you want to stay dry. The small town of Tiptonville is also a lovely little lakeside town worth exploring while you enjoy this incredible lake.

9. Mousetail Landing State Park

Location: Linden, Tennessee

Popularity: Busy on the weekends.

Need To Know: This is a wonderful waterfront state park to spend a summer day in Tennessee.

Mousetail Landing State Park is an underrated gem in Tennessee. Pack your camping equipment and head to this state park if you want a quiet getaway. Camping sites are located right on the water and offer some incredible views of the Tennessee River. Make sure to bring your vessels of choice to make good use of the water activities found along this mighty river. When it comes to romantic things to do in Tennessee in summer, nothing beats spending the night under the stars after watching a spectacular sunset while the crackle of the campfire sings in the background.

Best Free Summer Activities

If your budget is tight or if you are looking to save a few bucks this season, then here are some of the best activities in the Volunteer State. Not only are they cheap things to do in Tennessee in Summer, but they are also interwoven into our state's culture.

10. Swimming holes

Location: All over Tennessee

Popularity: Hidden gem to very busy.

Need To Know: Try a few swimming holes to find your favorite near you.

Without access to the ocean, we here in Tennessee must be clever with our waterfront activities. Fortunately, we have some pretty impressive waterfalls, lakes, and rivers to make good use of a free summer day. Head to Elizabethton to see the mesmerizing sapphire pool of Blue Hole Falls for a chilly plunge or take a trip to Greeter Falls for a popular swim spot under a waterfall. Foster Falls is very similar to Greeter Falls and is also a popular swimming hole with a fun suspension bridge hike to get to the base of the falls. Wherever you reside in the state, you will surely have a few refreshing waterfalls, lakes, and rivers where you can cool off during the summer heat. If you need more guidance, check out our list of the best swimming holes in Tennessee.

11. Hiking

Location: All over Tennessee

Popularity: Hidden gem to very busy.

Need To Know: Great hiking can be found in the Smokies and our state parks.

One of my favorite activities is to lace up my hiking boots and hit the trail. There are thousands of miles of hiking trails in Tennessee. From the lush green peaks of East Tennessee to the gradual plateau of flatness found around the Mississippi River, there are plenty of ways to get outside. Some of my favorite hikes have all been within the borders of the Volunteer State. Some places I would recommend for hiking include the base trail to Fall Creek Falls, Round Bald on Roan Mountain, Alum Cave in the Smokies, and Stone Door in Savage Gulf State Park. There are a variety of trails that all range in difficulty, so no matter if you are a grizzled veteran or a new beginner, there are many places to walk in the woods.

12. City Parks

Location: All over Tennessee

Popularity: Hidden gem to very busy.

Need To Know: There are many great parks, from state to national to city parks, all over Tennessee to spend time at this summer.

I do have little kids, so a good trip to the park can be a fun adventure that everyone in our family can enjoy. We love going to Willow Springs Park in Johnson City because of its unparalleled mountainous beauty, interesting turtle pond, and fun playground. One thing I love about some of these urban parks is how incredibly clever they are. Making good use of space and adding some unique twists, there is one park in Kingsport that centers around a carousel.

There is another in Chattanooga that isn’t just one park but two separated with a fun pedestrian bridge connecting Coolidge Park with Renaissance Park. As previously mentioned, Nashville has a replica of the Pantheon, but it is located in Centennial Park, a beautiful green space within the city. Find your local favorites because there are many out there with great playgrounds, and unique attractions that will draw crowds of the good local people.

Best Summer Events And Festivals In Tennessee

Part of what makes summer so fun is the people you get to spend it with. One of the reasons I love our state so much is because of the locals who call it home, too. The whole state is filled with incredibly friendly people, and when there is a chance to gather them all in one place, you know you are bound to have a great time. So, these summer events and festivals in Tennessee are great all by themselves, but become even better while enjoying them with friends.

13. Fun Fest

Location: Kingsport, Tennessee

Popularity: Busy

Need To Know: Fun Fest is a 9-day-long festival.

Fun Fest is a massive summer celebration in East Tennessee. While some events take place over one day, this festival spans nine days! With sports competitions, parades, hot air balloons, concerts, and vendors, this is one of the best events in a summer jam-packed with great activities. During the event, many places in Kingsport, like Bays Mountain and the Allandale Mansion, offer discounted rates or free days. Check the Fun Fest website for up-to-date information on the schedule and artist lineup for the live shows.

14. RC Cola & Moon Pie Festival

Location: Bell Buckle, Tennessee

Popularity: Busy

Need To Know: It's an excitng celebration of Tennessee’s own RC Cola and Moon Pies.

Life is far too short to care what other people think. Embrace the weird and odd things that make your small town great and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Bell Buckle is among one of the most charming small towns in Tennessee and they are home to one of the wackiest festivals in the state. The RC Cola & Moon Pie Festival is an annual sensation and everyone is counting down the time till the next one.

Get ready to embrace silliness because this summer you too can join in on the local pride and ridiculousness. The festival never takes itself too seriously with crazy games and activities that are sure to get you and your friends caught up in a good belly laugh. Isn’t that what summer celebrations are all about? Make sure to check out The RC Cola & Moon Pie Festival page to learn more about this year's schedule.

15. Elvis Week

Location: Memphis, Tennessee

Popularity: Busy

Need To Know: A wild festival to celebrate the king of rock 'n roll.

For the king of rock 'n roll, you won’t get just a day but instead a whole week to celebrate the life of Elvis Presley. In Memphis which was Elvis' home base while he wasn't wooing crowds with his catchy songs and showmanship, you can join thousands of others for Elvis Week. The event will have a ceremonial candle-lit vigil to show honor to this lost musical hero, and many musical guests paying tribute to the king himself. During the week you can tour Graceland and join like-minded fans who can’t get enough of this very honored musician. For up-to-date schedules and ticket sales please visit the Elvis Week page.

I hope this inspires you to make the most of the warmer months and really enjoy it. What are some of your favorite things to do in Tennessee in Summer? There is lots to do in our lovely state and there is nothing left but to get outside and go take advantage of the wonderful place we live.

If you plan on going on a summer road trip make sure you have a look at our essential packing list so you don’t forget anything important in your travels.