Posted in Tennessee
August 14, 2019
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!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
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
Address: 540 S Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103
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
Address: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
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
Address: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
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!
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
Address: 2915 Island Home Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37920
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
Address: 706 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103
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!
