The Ultimate And Definitive Bucket List For Everyone In Tennessee

Explore Tennessee's top 16 must-visit spots, from scenic drives to historic sites and local festivals.

The Volunteer State is known as a place of adventure and fun - a neat place for locals to continuously explore, and a consistent notch on the bucket list for tourists. Since there are so many folks looking to enjoy our pretty state, I decided it was probably necessary to pull together a solid Tennessee bucket list. You ready for a Volunteer State adventure? Good. Because I have a great one planned for you!

16. Visit the world-famous Lost Sea

As one of the most extensive underground bodies of water in the world, the Lost Sea is definitely a visit you don't want to escape you.

15. Enjoy a moment on the Chattanooga Riverwalk

One of the most peaceful spots in this stunning southern Tennessee city, the Chattanooga Riverwalk is prime for a romantic walk.

14. Walk historic Franklin, Tennessee

Franklin has a darling downtown with scads of shops and sweet people, and its tree-lined main thoroughfare is the Tennessee street you've been dreaming of.

13. Take a tour at the Jack Daniel's Distillery

Tours of the Jack Daniel's Distillery are free, but the whiskey costs money. Just a heads up.

12. Drive Newfound Gap Road

A southern scenic route is always a good decision, but in the fall? Newfound Gap Road is positively killer. Head on over while you still can!

11. Take a short drive to Clingman's Dome

Clingman's Dome,, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, is a place most deserving of your attention.

10. Visit the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

The Cheekwood Estate & Gardens play host to multiple art exhibits throughout the year. Make sure to check their seasonal offerings!

9. Find yourself in awe with a visit to Cades Cove.

Cades Cove, known to many as one of the most beautiful places in East Tennessee, is wildly popular amongst the outdoorsy types.

8. Search for a fun local festival.

There are quite a few going on across the state, and they are always a solid experience.

7. Find a local farmers market.

Buy local and meet Tennessee-based farmers. This is one of our favorite ways to connect with locals, and it's neat to really get to know our great folk.

6. Take a peaceful moment at Roan Mountain.

HELLO, gorgeous rhododendrons! Roan Mountain is not to be missed!

5. Calm down at the Memphis Riverfront

You may want to visit Memphis for Beale Street, but it's down on the Memphis Riverfront that you'll truly enjoy the muddy river.

4. Drive the Natchez Trace

With over 400 miles stretching from Tennessee to Mississippi, the Natchez Trace is the perfect drive paired with a cup of coffee.

3. Wait in line for a show at The Bluebird Café

Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift made their start here at the The Bluebird Café, and there are many more, lesser known songwriters who penned your favorite radio hits, all waiting in the wings to display their talent.

2. Go antiquing in Nolensville

YES. Get a fried Amish pie and get yourself a solid piece of antique furniture in Nolensville - it's worth it.

1. Take a drive down "The Dragon."

Known around the world as one of the most twisted roads for thrillseekers, "The Dragon." features hundreds of curves in hardly 11 miles. That's insane!

For more information about visiting Tennessee, check out the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development website, as well as the Tennessee Vacation Facebook page.

Have you ever been to any of these exciting spots? If so, which ones were your favorites? Would you agree that these are among the best things to do in Tennessee? Can you think of any other things to add to my Tennessee bucket list? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

Still looking for neat things to do? These 7 Surprising Things You Never Thought About Doing in Nashville will keep you busy!

For those who love hiking, you can find some great trails in and around all of these entities by going to the AllTrails website.

If you’re still in the mood for more Tennessee adventures, take a look at this video:

youtube embeded image

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories