11 Things That Will Always Make Tennesseans Think Of Home

Whether you live in Tennessee now or have ever lived in our beautiful state, you know there's something compelling about it. From Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee exudes a certain charm and character that can only be found here. For those that are at home away from home, we've compiled a list of some of the things that give Tennessee that rich and unique character. Any of these are enough to transport you back in a heartbeat and will have you humming Rocky Top in no time.

1. The smell of fried chicken from the kitchen.

Whether it's grandma's secret recipe or Gus's Famous Fried Chicken, there's something about this meal that instantly transports you back to the Volunteer State.

2. The fresh scent of jasmine in the summertime.

Let's all be honest -- jasmine in the summer is probably the best smell in the world. You can find this flower bloom all over Tennessee in the early summer months, and its smell anywhere else is enough to bring you back in a heartbeat.

3. The sweet tang of Memphis-style barbecue.

You just can't get barbecue like this anywhere. If you're lucky enough to find someone that does it right, you'll know the moment it hits your taste buds.

4. The sound of old time country music.

Everyone knows Tennessee is the birthplace of country music, and Nashville played a large part in making it as popular as it is today. When you hear it on the radio or in a restaurant, you'll think of your Tennessee home.

5. ... Especially when you catch Dolly on the radio.

Dolly is practically Tennessee royalty. Maybe her voice will take you back to the family trips to Dollywood, or maybe it just takes you back to the times of listening to country music on the radio at home, but Dolly will always make Tennesseans think of home.

6. Sipping a crisp, cold RC Cola.

RC Cola might have been created in Georgia, but Tennessee lays a strong claim to its history. After all, we do have a yearly festival dedicated to RC Cola and Moon Pies in Bell Buckle.

7. Hearing the word "Y'all."

Tennesseans might get teased for their accents and vernacular when they're outside of our state, but whenever someone uses the word "Y'all," you can be sure that they're good folk.

8. The soulful sounds of Memphis blues.

You don't have to be on Beale Street to hear Memphis blues, but whenever you do hear them, you'll get taken right to the heart of downtown Memphis.

9. The mention of college football.

Tennessee has the best fans in college football, and they certainly have the most fun watching it. Saturdays in the Fall are made for football, and there's not a Tennessean out there that doesn't think of home on game day.

10. Church bells ringing on Sunday morning.

Sunday morning church is a way of life in Tennessee. Hearing the call to gather at the church on Sunday morning is enough to make any Tennessean think of the times back home.

11. The mere mention of mountain moonshine.

Moonshine has widely been associated with Eastern Tennessee for good reason -- we make some of the best! You can even buy it throughout the state, and tasting some good 'shine will take you back to the hills of Tennessee.

Looking for something new to try in Tennessee? Try one of these spots that the locals keep to themselves.