No matter what time of year it is, finding a fun and creepy space to explore is always at the top of OUR list. There's just something so fascinating about abandoned places and lonely spots, long forgotten. If you've ever wondered about a Tennessee asylum tour (don't we all...?) then we've got quite the experience for you. Whether you'd like a private tour or a public tour, the Old South Pittsburg Hospital is a necessary stop for horror seekers.
South Pittsburg is known and loved by many for its gorgeous natural vistas and their fabulous local festivals and celebrations. But did you know about their darkest (and most exciting) local secret?
The Old South Pittsburg Hospital is considered to be the most haunted building in the state of Tennessee, blowing past the Bell Witch Cave and the Tennessee State Prison in Nashville with its eerie history.
The hospital was founded as the "South Pittsburg Municipal Hospital" in 1959, by four medical professionals with a heart for the local community. Unfortunately, the hospital's history quickly became tainted by tragic death, abuse, lawsuits and strange and extensive loss of life.
Its history was damning, and with the opening of a new hospital in the area Old South Pittsburg was closed in 1998. Since then, however, there have been many accounts of strange paranormal events occurring on the property. Now you can experience the eeriness of the space on your own, as well. There are private and public group bookings that run overnight and grant you full access to the abandoned hospital.
Wander through the psych ward, the surgical suite and recovery rooms. You may feel a chill in the TB isolation room or in the echoing hallways. Overnight investigations begin at 6 p.m. and end at 4 p.m. the next day. You'll be spending the night amongst ghosts, friends - would you dare?
Prices range between $55 and $75 a person for the entire experience. You'll have to make reservations ahead of time, but if you can't make the trek out just yet, visit the hospital virtually, below:
Pretty neat, right? If you're looking to book a trip, call 423-362-0089 for private or public reservations. You can also visit the tour site to pick your tour.
As I'm sure you know, Tennessee is the place to go for many things, including its music scene. We think it's such a joy to live in a space that celebrates auditory art and self-expression! Nashville may be Music City, but the Tennessee Music Highway runs straight through the belly of the state, exiting south into Mississippi and finishing up in the heart of the Big Easy - New Orleans. The following list highlights seven gems along the way (and one bonus!) that we think you'll enjoy visiting when you're looking for somewhere different to explore when you're driving along Music Highway Tennessee.
Known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley's highly lauded career, Sun Studios has recorded some of the most famous musicians in the world, including Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash. Founded by Sam Phillips, this is one iconic music locale that you don't want to skip when you're riding along the Music Highway in Tennessee.
6. International Rockabilly Hall of Fame and Museum - Jackson
The International Rockabilly Hall of Fame and Museum is where you can experience and indulge in the history of 1950s rockabilly stars. Take in old photographs and props from musical greats like Brenda Lee, and watch iconic and influential performances throughout your tour of the building located on Music Highway.
Ah, yes. Graceland. It may not be a "hidden" gem, but it is a gem all the way around. This treasure is quite possibly one of the most iconic spots on our list of places to visit along Music Highway TN. Of course, you'll have to visit the home of Elvis Presley and see the world from his eyes. The Mississippi-born rockstar chose to live in Tennessee for the majority of his adult life, and his adopted state couldn't be more proud.
Upon learning where is the Music Highway in Tennessee, you might be surprised to learn that this next spot is on the route. Although a bit macabre, the Patsy Cline crash site is considered an honorary member of the Tennessee Music Highway. It's where one of the greats lost her voice, and the quiet, beautiful spot is located in the heart of the forest. It's a peaceful space that pays homage to a horrific and is sure to be humbling.
Located in her hometown of Nutbush, the Tina Turner Museum is based in a most interesting place: Tina's old schoolhouse. Flagg Grove School was where a young Anna Mae Bullock attended classes, and now houses her life's work in the form of personal items and rock memorabilia. Therefore, you'll get a history lesson when you visit this step along the Music Highway in Tennessee.
As you've been learning where is the Music Highway in Tennessee, you might be surprised to see that sum of the gems on this route are in plain sight. For instance, The Ernest Tube Record Shop is located on Honkytonk Highway in downtown Nashville and has been open for over 65 years. Over its lifetime, the space has collected all sorts of vinyl records and rare CDs. Wander through on your way to Tootsie's, and pick up some new tunes.
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Editor's Note: As of 2023, this shop is going through renovations.
1. Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge - Nashville
Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge can be found right behind the Mother Church of Country Music (The Ryman Auditorium!). This spot along Music Highway is known for its quirky exterior color and rooftop patio. There's live music nightly, and folks as big as Taylor Swift have made their way to the stage. Come to let go, let loose, and have a fun time out!
Okay...Preservation Hall is 100% not in Tennessee. It's in New Orleans, but we wanted to include it here because it serves as the final stop on the Music Highway, stretching from the heart of Nashville, through Tennessee and Mississippi, finishing its run at the very tip of Louisiana. The historic jazz space may be "touristy" to some, but there's nothing more pure than hearing "Saints" played by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
Now that you know where Music Highway in Tennessee is, let us know if you plan on visiting the gems you just learned about any time soon. I also suggest taking a look at Tripadvisor to learn of other sights to check out when you're traveling in Tennessee. You'll find ideas of other unique spots to go in our piece about hidden destinations in Tennessee, as well.
Charming small towns in Tennessee are everywhere. Some of them have gorgeous scenery and natural beauty and others have an inviting downtown with amazingly friendly people. There are so many to explore that it can be overwhelming, so we made a list to get you started. You can travel to these towns for the day or extend your stay to make it a weekend getaway; whatever you choose, these small towns are inviting you to enjoy all they have to offer!
Searching for little towns to visit near me? Check out Mountain City, a town that's simply gorgeous in every possible way. Towering mountains surround you everywhere you look and you are just far enough from other towns that it feels like a secluded mountain paradise. Mountain City will also see a significant amount of snow, more than anywhere else in Tennessee, which makes it a great place to visit in January. One of the best things to do is to rent a cabin, start a fire, and relax.
Sewanee is a small college town west of Chattanooga and is undeniably charming. The natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and wilderness is simply tough to beat. There are tons of trails that feature great views of stunning peaks and beautiful waterfalls. Take to the woods and spend a weekend exploring it all. If hiking in the winter months isn’t your thing, then visit Sewanee: The University of the South and marvel at this amazing campus. The architecture looks more like a castle than a college and is simply gorgeous to explore.
Things are starting to warm up a little this time of the year in Tennessee, and we think Maryville is a great place to visit during March. Looming in the distance you can see the Great Smoky Mountains towering high and the bustling downtown can lure you in. With all the unique shops and restaurants, you can easily spend a weekend exploring Maryville. The Capitol Theater is a town icon; the marquee is worth the visit alone, and inside, the lobby has been converted into an epic movie-themed ice cream parlor you don't want to miss!
For those looking for "cute small towns near me," the town of Sweetwater has undergone a big transformation as it was restored to its former glory, filled with historic places to visit as well as unique shops. One-of-a-kind stores offer something for everyone, from unique gifts to lovely furniture. Sweetwater is a great town to enjoy on foot window shopping or treasure hunting for the perfect gift. On a rainy day make sure to head over to The Lost Sea Adventure to explore the largest underground lake in the country.
By now everything feels like summer and we are ready for some amazing outdoor adventures. Spend some time in Ocoee, one of the most peaceful small towns in Tennessee, which can be your hub for some incredible experiences. Travel along the Ocoee Scenic Byway and stop by the overlooks. Head to one of the beaches alongside Lake Ocoee or take in the scenery by hiking the many different trails. This area is so beautiful you can easily spend a weekend exploring it all.
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Take a look at this video of Ocoee, TN by @Lovenesters:
Bell Buckle is one of those quintessential charming small towns in Tennessee. The town has a known tradition for being artistic and loves to show it; the downtown has many unique shops you won’t find anywhere else. We choose June for a visit to Bell Buckle because they host an annual RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival. Both of these products were created in Tennessee, and this festival takes local pride to a whole new level. With plenty of games and activities, this is fun festival and unique you will not want to miss it.
Jonesborough is the oldest town in Tennessee and is undeniably one of the most charming. Filled with plenty of local pride, this town decorates for every season and is impossible to visit without getting caught up in the joy. With many celebrations filling the calendar it can be hard to decide on the best time to visit this historic town, but if you have to choose, visit in July. Pairing their annual Jonesborough Days Festival with the 4th of July makes for one giant, month-long celebration you will not want to miss.
When you are in the full heat of the Tennessee sun, you will want to make your way to the cool mountain water, so we're heading to Erwin. USA Rafts is the perfect place to be to beat the heat. Camp in any one of their unique accommodations like a glamping tent, dome, or tiny house, then take to the water in a kayak, paddleboard, or boat. If you prefer, you can go whitewater rafting or simply float down the river in a tube. Either way, the outdoorsy town of Erwin is a fun summer destination!
Martin is a small town tucked into the northwest side of the state. September is a busy time of year for this little town, with the annual soybean harvest and accompanying festival. With regard to the latter, the Tennessee Soybean Festival is chock-full of activities, rides, and food, making it fun for families of all ages.
As the leaves start to change you will have plenty of places to go to enjoy them. One of the best places is, of course, the Great Smoky Mountains, and what better way to enjoy the crispness of fall than in one of the most charming Tennessee small towns that is referred to as "The Quiet Side Of The Smokies"? Rent a cabin and be surrounded by a fiery array of colors then take in a hike or two. The bears can be very active this time of the year so going on a drive around Cades Cove will give you a great opportunity to see our most beloved Smoky Mountain mascot.
Gatlinburg is an amazing little town sitting in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains. It is hard to resist the undeniable charm of this little mountain town, but during the holidays it's even more magical. Lights are strung everywhere and simply walking around will fill you with the Christmas spirit. Walk along the SkyBridge, or take a trip to Anakesta for an incredible light display. There are so many things to do in this little town you can make a whole week out of it and you’ll still want to come back for more.
Take a look at this video of the Gatlinburg SkyBridge by @Kayak7seas:
Franklin is a suburb of Nashville, and the downtown undergoes a Christmas transformation each year that's pure holiday joy. Praised as one of the most magnificent light displays around. make sure to head to Gaylord Opryland to see all of the Christmas magic alongside the annual Ice! event.
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What do you think of these charming small towns in Tennessee? We got you started on some pretty amazing bucket list towns to visit this year, but what ones are on your list? Let us know in the comments below.
