17 Things Every True Tennessean Does At Least Once Before They Die

If you're a true Tennessean, then you've probably found yourself wondering at how you can really, fully and completely, fall head over heels in love with your state again. We live here, so sometimes we find ourselves taking the beauty of the east and the music of the west for granted. That's why we've put together a solid 17 things that YOU need to do whilst you're living in the Volunteer State - every single one of them vetted and true.

17. Take in the beauty of the state at Lookout Mountain.

The Chattanooga location doesn't compare to anywhere else when it comes to Tennessee views. Plus, research the history of the site - it's truly humbling.

16. Visit the Cumberland Caverns.

If you haven't already done it as a field trip in fifth grade. (Half of y'all should be sheepishly raising your hand...)

15. Visit the Bluebird Café.

It's the maker of great country music artists, after all.

14. Try to hike all 150 trails in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

Did you even know there were that many?

13. Find a neighborhood coffee shop and shoot the breeze.

We'd like to recommend Headquarters in Nashville and Muletown Coffee Roasters in Columbia.

12. Visit the Hermitage.

As home of Tennessee native Andrew Jackson, you don't want to miss out on our former president's home.

11. Scare the heck out of your folks at the Bell Witch Cave.

The Tennessee legend has stayed alive through the wiles of history and continues to spook folks to this day.

10. Fall in love with Watauga Lake.

Pretty much the most beautiful and secluded place you could be in Tennessee. Also - did you know that a replica Watauga Lake sits in the middle of Nashville's Centennial Park? True stuff.

9. Visit Ober Gatlinburg.

Our one well-known ski spot, this east Tennessee amusement area is definitely a must if you have little ones.

8. Walk Broadway in Nashville.

Probably just once. Or twice if you have to go to a bachelor party...but it's quite the experience.

7. Find your own local spot.

Can we recommend Marcy Jo's Mealhouse in Pottsville? Good people, good food, good conversation.

6. Visit the Parthenon in Centennial Park.

Known as 'The Athens of the South,' Nashville has its own to-scale replica of the Parthenon.

5. Walk the bridges in Chattanooga.

Because they're beautiful and iconic and deserve to be walked, and often.

4. Take a tour of the Civil War battlefields.

Tennessee has a solid investment in Civil War history, and we're proud of our heritage. Take some time to learn about our country and the war between the states.

3. Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.

Unless you're scared of heights. In that case...just don't.

2. Try the biscuits from the Loveless Café.

THEY ARE ICONIC TENNESSEE. Okay, we'll stop yelling now...but really. You can't get more authentic than this.

1. Reflect on the beauty of the state in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Take a hike, take a drive. Take some time to yourself and enjoy a few moments surrounded by the great Tennessee wilderness. It's a privilege not many have.

Oh, Tennessee. We'll forever be in love with you. Plus (BONUS) - check out the greatest places in Tennessee if you hate crowds.