You can't visit Tennessee without running smack dab into a WHOLE lot of American history. As one of the main players in the Civil War and with a speckled past to boot, the Volunteer State has had no problem getting and staying involved in the maturation of the United States. This road trip is history-themed and will take you through the meat of the state as you journey towards a greater understanding of our nation's earliest beginnings.
Check out our road trip, and you can find our map right here.
Alright, here's your trek through the Tennessee countryside! We'd recommend beginning this road trip in the heart of the state, perhaps outside of Nashville, but you can customize your own route through our map link above.
1. Fort Donelson - Dover
The Fort Donelson National Battlefield actually protects two Civil War sites, the forts of both the Henry and Donelson campaign. You can visit a soldier cemetery, the riverside battleground, and the old fort and artillery. The park is beautifully preserved, and friendly for the entire family.
Address: 120 Lock D Road, Dover, TN 37058
2. Carnton Plantation - Franklin
The historic and beautiful Carnton Plantation sits on the grounds of what once was the Battle of Franklin, and the home was used as a hospital during the pivotal battle. The Greek Revival style of the mansion sends tourists immediately back in time by way of aesthetic, and we'd recommend indulging in a tour and a walk around the Confederate cemetery.
Address: 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin, TN 37064
3. Stones River National Battlefield - Murfreesboro
The Stones River National Battlefield is a 570-acre park that can be found just outside of Nashville in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, memorializing the Battle of Stones River. There's a visitors center and multiple trails that traverse the park and cemetery. We'd highly recommend the informative museum on the property as well. The staff truly cares about the history they protect, and you'll come away with a deeper understanding of the area and the role it played during the Civil War.
Address: 3501 Old Nashville Highway, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
4. East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum - Knoxville
Head to Knoxville for a quick stop at the East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum. This small museum offers an incredibly intimate experience, with Civil War artifacts, art and visiting exhibits on display. It's a community hub, and well worth admission investment.
Address: 601 S Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902
5. The Hermitage
The Hermitage in Nashville, Tennessee is perhaps one of the best-known spots on our list. Once the home of President Andrew Jackson, the now perfectly manicured grounds host streams of tourists looking to learn about the history of the Volunteer State and the spotted reputation of the nation's seventh President.
4580 Rachels Lane, Hermitage, TN 37076
6. Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park - Tennessee/Georgia Border
This famed military park is shared by both Georgia and Tennessee, straddling the east and northern edges of the states. The park preserves the battlefields of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga Campaign, two pivotal battles in the Civil War. You can follow trails through the massive park, learning about the history of the area by way of monuments and staff along the way. Make sure to bring comfy shoes for walking!
Address: 3370 Lafayette Road, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
If you're looking for another neat way to experience the history of the state, make sure to take this nighttime trolley tour in Nashville. It's a fun way to learn all about the city!
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