30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Tennessee - Attractions & Activities Skip to Content

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Tennessee

Known as one of the most beautiful places in the US, Tennessee is regarded as the land of country music, but there is also a rich history and many other sightseeing opportunities throughout the state.

If you’re looking for good tourist spots or figuring out where to go, look no further.

Here are the 30 best and fun things to do in Tennessee.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Tennessee, as well as one of the most famous spots for vacation ideas.

The park straddles the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains and is America’s most popular national park to visit.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is packed with impressive wildlife, teeming history, and geological marvels.

It was one of the country’s first parks that was federally funded.

The famous Appalachian Trail also winds through the park’s middle, as well as the North Carolina-Tennessee border.

While you’re here, you can walk around and explore, starting from the entrance at the charming and whimsical town of Gatlinburg.

In the park itself, multiple trails await, including the much-loved Alum Cave Trail.

There is also Cades Cove, which contains stunning remnants of historic buildings, preserved well.

Address: 107 Park Headquarters Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

2. Ryman Auditorium

Ryman Auditorium

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Once upon a time, the Ryman Auditorium was known as the Carnegie of the South, beginning with its opening in 1885.

It first saw the light of day when an evangelist named Sam Jones used the location for a tent revival.

Among the 5,000 individuals in attendance, one was Thomas G. Ryman, a businessman from Nashville.

Ryman became a Christian and, shortly after, made the decision to dedicate his fortune and his life to Jones’ work, building the Union Gospel Tabernacle for him.

When Ryman passed away, the venue’s name changed, and it is now the Ryman Auditorium we know today.

Today, Ryman Auditorium is known as the Mother Church of Country Music and is much more fun than it was before, making it one of the tourist attractions that visitors flock to in Tennessee.

From being the home of the Grand Old Opry, it has grown and changed so much, now a live performance venue that is hankered after by celebrities and performers.

2,362 seats wait within for audience members, and if you love country music, this is one of the places to visit in Tennessee that you shouldn’t miss.

Address: 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219, United States

3. National Civil Rights Museum

National Civil Rights Museum

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For history buffs, the National Civil Rights Museum is one of the best and most educational historical spots that Tennessee has to offer.

First established back in 1991, the museum tells visitors all about the Civil Rights Movement of America, its history, its legacy, and its continued influence on the fight for equality in today’s modern world.

The museum is actually comprised of multiple individual buildings, each one historic, and each one its own museum.

One of the museum’s buildings sits at the lot that was once the Lorraine Motel, which is where the amazing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was sadly assassinated.

That’s also why the museum has exhibits centered around the great man and many interactive ones dedicated to honoring him.

The National Civil Rights Museum is among the things to see in Tennessee that you simply can’t miss.

You can opt to take a two-hour tour around the museum, go on your own, or even rent out the museum for events!

Address: 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States

4. The Parthenon

The Parthenon

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The Parthenon is a structure that most would probably think belongs in Athens, Greece – and yet it’s one of the points of interest found in Tennessee!

In fact, it may be among the top 10 places that you must visit while you’re in the state.

Originally, this sculpture, which is a replica at full-scale of the original Greecian Parthenon, was built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition of 1897.

This structure actually almost didn’t make it till today, as it was supposed to be demolished, but plans were rolled back due to how popular the Parthenon was.

Today, it is used as a museum for art, where it can be found in Centennial Park, housing 63 paintings that date back to the19th and 20th centuries, all done by American artists.

There are also other exhibits and shows throughout the year that rotate.

All around, it is decorated thoroughly with replicas that mimic the sculptures that first called the real Parthenon their home.

Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

5. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is another one of the best spots for history buffs.

After all, what tells the story of a state’s development quite as much as its railroads, connecting it to the world around it?

This fun museum first opened its doors in 1960, when it originally merely functioned as a Western Union equipment storage and display center.

More cars were added when Southern Railway’s passenger service came to a close, and in 1970, a permanent facility was opened up, which still remains as we know it today in East Chattanooga.

Better yet, the trains still run, allowing visitors to experience an authentic steam train ride.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a part of the National Railway Historical Society, created by railway preservationists led by Robert M Soule and Paul H Merriman.

The mission of these individuals was simple: preserve railways, their equipment, and steam locomotives for the sake of historical value and study.

Thanks to their efforts, this museum is one of the coolest places to see in the state.

Address: 4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421, United States

Planning a trip around Tennessee? Check out some of the coolest things to do in Chattanooga & some of the things to do in Franklin, TN!

6. Stones River National Battlefield

Stones River National Battlefield

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The Stones River National Battlefield is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

It is the site of one of the Civil War’s bloodiest and deadliest battles: the Battle of Stones.

Spanning 570 acres, what is today a park is meant to memorialize the battle and its historical significance.

The field houses the Stones River National Cemetery, which has Hazen’s Brigade Monument – the oldest surviving monument to the American Civil War – as well as nearly 7,000 different gravesites.

It’s one of the best testaments to the war and its message today.

There are a number of activities that are also held at the Stones River National Battlefield.

Interpreted walks, talks, tours, and programs are often held in the park, run by volunteers or Park Service rangers.

So if Tennessee is on your list of places to vacation, don’t forget to check this spot out.

Address: 3501 Old Nashville Hwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, United States

7. The Titanic Museum

Titanic Museum

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It’s odd to think of a connection between Tennessee and the RMS Titanic, and yet the state has the largest – and perhaps one of the best – permanent museums dedicated to the Titanic, worldwide.

The Titanic Museum is located in Pigeon Forge and is close to another one of the things to see in Tennessee later on this list, Dollywood.

First opening in 2010, the Titanic Museum is shaped just like the RMS Titanic, at 50% the size of the original but with accurate scale percentages.

Over 400 different artifacts related to the iconic ship call this museum their home, arranged across 20 exciting galleries.

Each one is specially designed so it feels like you are truly on the real Titanic.

It cost a whopping $25 million to construct, so it’s no surprise that there is plenty of stuff to do inside.

Upon entering, you receive a boarding ticket that has the name of a real passenger on the Titanic, as well as the class they are traveling on.

You get to put yourself in the position of that person, and at the end of your exploration, you’ll happen upon the Titanic Memorial Room, which will tell you of all the passengers – including your own – and whether or not they survived.

Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States

Want to stay longer in Pigeon Forge? Here are some incredible things to do in Pigeon Forge!

8. Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain

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Lookout Mountain is a mountain ridge that is one of the most beautiful places in Tennessee.

It sits slightly overlapping the Georgia state line, with the Tennessee side falling in Chattanooga.

It is said that it was so named after the term in the Cherokee language for a pair of mountains that faced each other.

Lookout Mountain actually has a fair bit of historical significance.

It was of the site of what we know today as the last battle of the Cherokees.

This took place during the Nickajack Expedition.

The Battle of Lookout Mountain also occurred here, as its name suggests, during the Civil War of America.

As one of the most loved tourist attractions in the state, it is full of options when you’re looking for what to see.

Ruby Falls Cavern boasts a delightful waterfall.

The Incline Railway is a treat for lovers of history, as is the Chattanooga Museum.

And, of course, there are amusingly named events, like Fat Man’s Squeeze or Lover’ Leap, held at Rock City.

Address: Chattanooga, TN 37409, United States

9. The Tennessee State Capitol Building

Tennessee State Capitol Building

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The Tennessee State Capitol Building opened in 1859 in Nashville as a form of tribute to locals living in the state.

The imposing building is designated a US Historic Landmark and is on the country’s Register of Historic Places, making it among the best of the places to visit in Tennessee.

The building was designed by William Strickland, who died during construction.

The building is his final resting place, as well as that of President James Polk and his life.

There are also other monuments to those passed away, with statues for Sergeant Alvin York, President Andrew Johnson, President Andrew Jackson, and Sam Davis on the premises.

Guided tours are offered every week.

Address: 600 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Nashville, TN 37243, United States

10. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

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You may already associate Tennessee with the sultry drawls and twangy banjo plucks of country music – and that’s why it’s no surprise that Tennessee houses the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the best place to go if you love the genre.

It has been around for over five decades, focusing on preserving the traditions, history, and evolution of country music.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s main showcase is once called Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music.

It makes use of interactive touchscreens, photographs, vintage videos, and artifacts to tell tales and convey the history of the traditions, changes, and origins to the music genre.

For that exhibit alone, visiting her is one of the most fun things to do in Tennessee!

There’s a reason that the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is often referred to as country music’s Smithsonian.

It has exhibitions for a wide range of icons in the field, such as Blak Shelton, Charlie Daniels, the Zac Brown Band, and even modern entries like Taylor Swift.

Address: 222 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

11. Beale Street

Beale Street

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Beale Street is one of the most famous streets in the state of Tennessee, located in Memphis and spanning from East Street to the Mississippi River.

It is approximately two miles long and is commonly known as one of the best spots for tourists in the area, lined with restaurants serving scrumptious fare and clubs that play blues and soul music.

But Beale Street isn’t just a fun location – it’s also an iconic street with a significant amount of historical value.

It played a big part in America’s blues music history and continues to have a role in it today, with outdoor concerts and festivals galore.

Even if you’re not a fan of the genre, when looking for what to do in Tennessee, Beale Street isn’t something easily overlooked.

It is the main entertainment center of Memphis and is very lively and exciting, making for a great destination to check out this weekend.

Address: Memphis, TN 38103, United States

12. Sun Studio

Sun Studio

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Sun Studio, first known during its opening in 1950 as the Memphis Recording Service, originally shared a lot with Sun Records.

Today, it is among the many cool places in Tennessee that hold historic value, known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll music.

It earned this title after Rocket 88 was recorded here by the Delta Cats and Jackie Brenston in 1951.

Since then, many musical icons have worked in what is now one of many fun Tennessee attractions, including Roy Orbison, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, and, of course, Elvis Presley.

The studio was reopened with its current, modern name in 1987 by Gary Hardy, and it continues its reputation for being the world’s most famous recording studio.

Sun Studio is still professionally used today, but they do offer tours and even a free shuttle service that goes to and from the Rock N’ Soul Museum and Graceland.

There’s even a small gift shop for souvenirs and clothing.

Whether or not you like rock ‘n’ roll, this is one of those places to see that you just can’t miss.

Address: 706 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, United States

13. Belle Meade Plantation

Belle Meade Plantation

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Belle Meade Plantation was merely a log cabin set on 250 acres of land when it first was founded by John Harding in 1807 in Nashville, Tennessee.

In its heyday, the plantation home welcomed a wide range of guests, ranging from celebrities to gentlemen, and even including presidents.

Over time, with the financing of the region’s richest family, it grew to take up 5,400 acres of land and blossomed as a horse farm, which had its own train station, a Revival mansion, and even a deer park.

There was, of course, also housing for slaves, who worked on and tended to the land.

Now, with only 34 acres of it remaining, this is one of the more sobering places to visit in Tennessee, but worth a visit while you’re sightseeing in the state.

It’s one of the best ways to get a glimpse into the way the world was back then.

A tour can lead you through the mansion, or you can walk around the grounds to visit the slaves’ quarters, among other locations.

Address: 110 Leake Ave, Nashville, TN 37205, United States

14. Tennessee Aquarium

Tennessee Aquarium

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The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga is a fully nonprofit facility that is comprised of two buildings.

The first is known as the River Journey exhibit, which covers a whopping 130,000 square feet and is the world’s biggest freshwater aquarium, and one of it’s best.

This exhibit focuses on showcasing fish and animals that live in rivers.

The second building is newer; known as Ocean Journey, it is devoted to ocean and sea animals.

While at the aquarium, you can go on a boat ride, learn about all sorts of creatures, understand more about the Southeast’s biodiversity, and understand the importance of freshwater ecosystems, carried out by the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute.

If you love marine life, this is among the coolest things to see in Tennessee!

Address: 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

15. Memphis Zoo

Memphis zoo

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The Memphis Zoo is a must-see for animal-loving tourists and traveling families and is, in general, among the top things to do in Tennessee.

It is one of only four American zoos to house giant pandas; the two here are named Ya Ya and Le Le.

And it was once the home of the oldest hippopotamus who was recorded as being the longest-lived of his kind; Adonis, who lived to be 54 and passed away in 1965.

But it’s not just pandas and hippos in this zoo.

There are over 500 species here, with more than 3,5000 animals in total.

There are plenty of fun exhibits within the zoo, including those known as Animals of The Night, Once Upon A Farm, Northwest Passage, and Primate Canyon.

All exhibits are modeled after real animal habitats to keep the fauna happy!

Address: 2000 Prentiss Pl, Memphis, TN 38112, United States

Want to spend more time here? Check out some cool things to do in Memphis!

16. The Hermitage

The Hermitage is a beautiful house built between the years 1819 and 1821.

It is 7th American President Andrew Jackson’s former home, which makes it one of the popular places to visit in Tennessee for tourists.

At first, the Hermitage had a brick facade and a Federal architectural style, with eight rooms, a basement summer kitchen, and a whopping nine fireplaces.

Rachel Jackson, the President’s wife, was buried in the garden of the Hermitage because it was the place she loved most, and Andrew was laid to rest next to her.

A tomb marks their final resting place.

There’s no reason not to have fun exploring these grounds today, now that the Hermitage is a museum that has been restored with a careful effort to look exactly as it did in the time of Jackson’s residence.

The gardens and woods are almost park-like in their structure, and there are lots of documents and artifacts on display in this Tennessee museum to check out.

Address: 4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

17. Graceland

Graceland

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Elvis fans aren’t the only people who will get a kick out of Graceland, one of the best Tennessee destinations.

It is America’s second most commonly visited and toured home, with the White House taking first place.

The mansion’s tour is provided via an interactive method, using iPads, and hosted by none other than John Stamos.

When you tour Graceland, you will visit many different rooms that are just as they were when Elvis left it – the living room, the kitchen, the office of Elvis’ father, the TV room, and even a rather fun offering called the Jungle Room.

You will also have the opportunity to step into the airplanes used by Elvis, and finally, to visit the Meditation Garden.

This is where the king of rock ‘n’ roll was laid to rest, alongside his family.

The home was converted to a museum and opened for public perusal in 1982 by Presley’s own remaining family.

It is now listed among the sites on the National Register of Historic Places, a true accomplishment for this Tennessee spot.

Address: Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116, United States

18. The Bell Witch Cave

The Bell Witch Cave is one of the more unique Tennessee attractions on this list.

It is named after Kate the Bell Witch, known as a terrifying spirit with a scarier story behind her.

Legend has it that even Andrew Jackson, who came by to check on the disturbances, was scared by her doings!

Her tale is simple – a witch began to frighten a family on a farm in Tennessee known as the Bell family in 1817, using eerie sounds to keep them from sleeping.

She then escalated to violence and eventually poisoned the father of the family.

She would go on to torment the daughter of the family in frightening ways, only stopping when the daughter called off her engagement.

But one of these legends is a kind one.

A group of children stumbled upon a karst cave, 500 feet in length, and as they explored, one was stuck in a cave.

He panicked, and a disembodied voice answered him and he was pulled free by an invisible woman.

The witch then supposedly gave him a lesson in cave safety before vanishing!

If you visit the spot this weekend, you’ll find conflicting stories.

Some claim the Bell Witch was never evil but lived in the Bell home, and others point out how scary the cave can be.

Either way, if you love spooky things, the Bell Cave is one of the most interesting places of interest to visit.

Address: 430 Keysburg Rd, Adams, TN 37010, United States

19. The Crystal Shrine Grotto

The Crystal Shrine Grotto was completed in the 1930s out of concrete, though it certainly doesn’t look that way.

A mix of odd-looking stones, religious imagery, and truly exceptional handiwork and craftsmanship, this is one of those Tennessee attractions that may make one scratch their head.

Like many points of interest, the Crystal Shrine Grotto doesn’t hold quite the same atmosphere it did when it was first created.

Meant to provide a reflective, serene space, it appears more like a Christian-themed neolithic park today.

The grotto rests in the center of the Memorial Park Cemetery in Memphis, Tennessee, the work of Dionicio Rodríguez, an artist commissioned to make the cemetery more aesthetically pleasing.

It was created by digging nearly 60 feet into a hill and is decorated with cement and quartz, which meld together to make a fun glowing appearance.

Address: 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119, United States

20. Mud Island River Park

Mud Island

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The Mud Island River Park itself isn’t often considered a must-see in Tennessee, but the five-block-long River Walk that it is home to is definitely worth the trip.

Why? Because it allows you to view the world’s fourth longest river in the span of a few hours.

The River Walk is a replica of the Mississippi River.

Every 30 inches of the walk equals about a mile of the real river.

You will learn all about geographical marvels and historic events as you walk on through this Mississippi in Tennessee.

The walk ends at the “Gulf of Mexico”, an enclosure spanning an acre.

Here, you can enjoy a boat ride over its 1.3 million-gallon water content.

As an excursion, this is one of the most fun things to do in Tennessee.

Address: 125 N Front St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States

21. Grand Ole Opry

Grand Ole Opry

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The Grand Ole Opry is famous worldwide, so it’s definitely among the best when it comes to places to see while you’re in Tennessee.

Originally, what we know as the Opry today was just a radio broadcast called The WSM Barn Dance that first began in 1925.

It first broadcasted from the Ryman Auditorium before moving, in 1974, to the Grand Ole Opry House.

The Grand Ole Opry is still hosting country music concerts every single week, with big names like Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood.

The concerts are broadcasted across many channels, as well as the Opry’s own website.

There’s a reason it’s known as American music’s home, and as far as Tennessee attractions go, it’s one not to be missed.

Address: 2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States

22. Adventure Science Center

Adventure Science Center

Adventure Science Center

The Adventure Science Center is one of the more fun places to visit in Tennessee, and it’s great for those tired of the music-themed or historical spots that Tennessee is so well known for.

Kids and adults alike can find some activities to their liking here.

The center boasts interactive displays designed to teach kids about all sorts of science topics, ranging from space to biology.

Children can try out flight simulators, try a photo booth that will show them what they may look like as adults, and learn about becoming astronauts.

Plenty of demonstrations are available, with friendly and loving staff.

There are countless locations with the Adventure Science Center, including the Adventure Tower, Space Chase, and more.

It’s worth noting that the planetarium, as well as some other locations, cost extra to enter.

Address: 800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

23. Lost Sea Cave

Lost Sea Cave

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The Lost Sea Cave is a beautiful spot among Tennessee destinations.

It is located within Craighead Caverns, which earned its name from Chief Craighead, a Cherokee chief.

Within these caverns is America’s biggest non-subglacial lake, known as the Lost Sea.

The Lost Sea Cave can be found in the Great Smoky Mountains’ foothills.

Within you’ll find a stunning waterfall and many crystal clusters that hang off the walls of the caves, making for a fun and awe-inspiring trip that doesn’t even feel like it’s within Tennessee anymore.

There’s a lot of history here, too; confederate soldiers mined them for saltpeter.

Address: 140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874, United States

24. Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print

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The Hatch Show Print is one of the oldest letterpress print stores, not just in Tennessee, but in all of America.

It was founded in 1870 by the Hatch brothers in Nashville, first known as CR and HH Hatch.

A mix of smartly picked graphics, gorgeous type, and well-done composition made the company rise in the ranks to become one of the best and most renowned throughout Tennessee.

It was during the golden age of the country music scene of Nashville that Hatch Show Print was at its most popular.

Will T. Hatch, the son of one of the co-founders, was an expert carver of woodblocks and created numerous memorable posters for country music celebrities, furthering the company’s success.

Since 2013, Hatch Show Print was moved to the Country Music Hall of Fame’s lobby.

It still is a print shop that continues to create more than 150,000 posters annually.

If you’re looking for what to do in Tennessee, take a trip here to tour the store, draw with the others, and learn about the print-making process.

Address: 224 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

If you have more time, check out some amazing things to do in Nashville!

25. RCA Studio B

RCA Studio B

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RCA Studio B is a surefire hit among points of interest for music-lovers.

It rose to fame in the 1960s after becoming known for producing “Nashville Sound” country music.

Big names such as Waylon Jennings, Elvis, and even Dolly Parton did recordings in this Tennessee studio.

The studio is one of the select few Tennessee attractions on the US National Registry of Historic Places.

It hosts activities, tours, events, and programs and is maintained to this day by the Country Music Hall Of Fame.

Address: 1611 Roy Acuff Pl, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

Have more time? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Knoxville, TN?

26. Discovery Park of America

Discovery Park of America

Discovery Park of America

The Discovery Park of America is an excellent destination for visitors to Tennessee, holding fascinating secrets and awe-inspiring exhibits within its fifty-acre grounds.

This is an unmissable destination, as the sights are truly amazing.

This is a site seeing many tourists per year and is by far one of the most popular destinations for visitors.

This is in no small part due to its diversity, housing a giant model of a human body, an earthquake simulator, and even a twenty thousand gallon aquarium.

This Museum has something for everyone.

Address: 830 Everett Blvd, Union City, TN 38261, United States

27. Dollywood

Dollywood

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Remade from the ground up by Dolly Parton, the legendary country singer, Dollywood boasts many attractions typical of a theme park.

What makes this one of the best places to go in Tennessee, however, is the fact that it has been modeled upon Parton’s experiences as a famous singer, incorporating elements such as themed areas that focus upon particular aspects of Parton’s own life.

Amongst the core Tennessee attractions, Dollywood stands out as being particularly enticing for fans of country music.

Its sister attractions, such as the Splash Country, provide further diversions for those less interested in Parton’s life.

Overall, Dollywood is a crucial stop for those who adore Dolly Parton’s music and all true country fans, but it nonetheless provides entertainment for those less enthusiastic about her too.

Don’t miss the festivals that Dollywood hosts, either!

Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States

28. Shelby Farms Park

One of the most beautiful places in Tennessee, Shelby Farms Park spans a colossal 4,500 acres – more than five times larger than NYC’s Central Park!

In fact, this pristine park is one of the largest urban parks in the country and a staggering forty miles of trails crisscrossing it, and twenty bodies of water.

Fortunately, boats, bicycles, and horses are available for rental to help you traverse this sprawling park.

There are many fun activities available here, ranging from fishing to hiking to disc golf.

If you have a dog with you, there are 120 acres of and for it to roam off-leash and a Woodland Discovery Park where children can play and enjoy the great outdoors in a safe, enjoyable environment.

The Shelby Farm Greenline is a large, paved trail connecting Memphis to Cordova, and passes through its namesake.

This provides a perfect opportunity for the avid hiker to enjoy a tranquil rest during their ten-kilometer trek.

Shelby Farms is an unmissable emerald in the heart of Tennessee, and any fan of the outdoors should visit it at least once.

Address: 6903 Great View Dr N, Memphis, TN 38134, United States

29. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

In downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a marvel awaits.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the best places to go if you like aquatic animals at all.

With more than a hundred thousand individual animals and nearly one and a half million gallons of water, Ripley’s is one of the largest aquariums in America, and the highest-rated of all.

Ripley’s has many fascinating species, and visitors can observe them clearly from one of the world’s longest underground tunnels, which provides a spectacular view of the sharks and rays, amongst many other fascinating fish that live at Ripley’s Aquarium.

This marvelous aquarium also hosts special events such as the famous Painting with Penguins, ensuring that visitors of all ages are entertained by the plethora of events and intriguing animals resident to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Address: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Want to see more of Gatlinburg? Check out some amazing things to do in Gatlinburg!

30. Parrot Mountain and Gardens

Parrot Mountain and Gardens

Parrot Mountain and Gardens

One of the best places to see tropical birds in Tennessee, Parrot Mountain and Gardens was designed by the renowned artist Thomas Kincade in a tasteful European style, masterfully blending the architectural style of Europe with the bright vividness of the Amazon.

The parrots are housed in interestingly designed cottages that dot the four acres that the park covers.

The birds fly freely in the sky and perch in the open air, providing ample opportunity to take photographs, feed them, or simply admire their vibrancy and beauty.

This hidden gem of Tennessee even has a baby bird nursery, where you can buy your very own bird.

Highlights include an interesting garden and park, a rare opportunity to see soaring birds, bright plumage, and friendly parrots that can eat out of your hand.

If you’re looking for what to do in Tennessee, this is a great spot for animal-lovers.

Address: 1471 McCarter Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37862, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Tennessee

Tennessee is packed with amazing tourist attractions and best vacation spots just waiting to be seen.

Hopefully, this list of the best things to do in Tennessee has inspired you with vacation ideas for an exciting and enjoyable holiday.