7 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in Tennessee

Tennessee’s best long-weekend destinations span an impressive range of landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains and Tellico Plains to the Great Smoky Mountains. That variety shows up fast in Greeneville, where antique-lined streets pair naturally with nearby waterfall hikes to Margaret Falls and Mary’s Falls. It also shines in Gatlinburg, where panoramic Smoky Mountain views and attractions like the Gatlinburg SkyBridge sit side by side. All told, these seven Tennessee destinations are perfect for a long weekend filled with scenery, character, and fun.

Greeneville

Greeneville is perhaps best known for its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains and its historic landmarks. Greene County offers several scenic waterfall hikes, including the Margaret Falls Trail, featuring a stunning 60-foot cascade, and Mary’s Falls, a hidden gem with a 35-foot drop. Within town, visitors have lots of antique shops to explore, including Greeneville Antique Market, Back Porch Antiques, and The Burlap Bunny.

For a night out, the Historic Capitol Theatre, built in 1934 with an art-deco style, hosts a variety of events, including upcoming Christmas shows and holiday movie screenings. To enjoy a getaway out in the forest and mountains, visitors can rent a rustic, bed and breakfast cabin with Nolichuckey Bluffs, each cabin boasting beautiful views of the mountainside.

Dayton

Located between Knoxville and Chattanooga, Dayton made its mark on the national stage in 1925 during the famous Scopes Trial, a significant legal event focusing on teaching evolution in public schools. Feel free to explore the historic courthouse, built in 1891, showcasing charming Romanesque Revival-Italian villa architecture, and peek into the Scopes Trial Museum on the second floor, where you can see original furniture and seats from that historic day.

If you love flowers and nature, don’t miss the Lorenzen Flower Farm! It's a beautiful spot to visit, bursting with tulips in spring and wildflowers during summer—perfect for photographers and those who simply enjoy the beauty of blooms. Not far away, Lake Chickamauga draws many anglers, especially those keen on bass fishing, as some of the country’s largest bass have been caught there. Looking for a peaceful riverside getaway? The Riverside Bed and Breakfast in nearby Soddy-Daisy is located right along Soddy Creek and offers a cozy, home-style breakfast to start your day off right.

Lynchburg

Lynchburg is proud to host the famous Jack Daniel’s Distillery, the country’s oldest registered distillery, welcoming around 250,000 visitors each year. Guests love taking tours of the distillery and sampling six unique whiskey varieties, which are sure to bring smiles all around. Just a short drive away, Tims Ford State Park is a favorite spot for nature lovers, offering great places to camp, boat, and hike.

In downtown Lynchburg, the charming town square is filled with delightful boutiques and cozy restaurants, perfect for picking up a special keepsake. You'll also find historic landmarks such as the Moore County Courthouse and the Old Moore County Jail, both charming remnants from the 19th century. For a cozy stay close to all the action, the Lynchburg Valley Inn is just a mile away from downtown and offers a welcoming retreat during your visit.

Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is about an hour away from Knoxville and in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, making it a great escape in the outdoors. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is less than a 20-minute drive away, with other nearby attractions including Cades Cove, a 19th-century European settlement to explore, and Laurel Falls, an 80-foot waterfall accessible via a 2.6-mile loop trail.

Those looking for a thrill can visit Dollywood Amusement Park, which has over 40 rides to hop on or try out go-karting at one of the town’s many racing centers, such as Xtreme Racing Center. Located downtown, The Ramsey Hotel offers a well-rounded stay, complete with upscale amenities like a pool, restaurant, and fitness center on-site.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, is a wonderful gateway to Tennessee's mountain adventures. Visiting the Skybridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in the country, offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the mountains that will take your breath away. For water enthusiasts, the Pigeon River is ideal for whitewater rafting, and SMO Rafting provides exciting adventures perfect for thrill-seekers.

Tellico Plains

With a close-knit population of just under 800, Tellico Plains feels like a peaceful mountain retreat—perfect for a relaxing weekend away to disconnect and recharge. If you're a fan of hiking, you'll love visiting Bald River Falls, Conasaga Falls, or Coker Creek Falls, each showcasing the stunning cascades in the beautiful surrounding area. To dive into the area’s rich history, stop by the Charles Hall Museum and Heritage Center, where you can discover fascinating exhibits on Appalachian and American history from Monroe County.

Planning to camp? Indian Boundary Lake and Campground offers spotless campsites, a fun beach, a cozy picnic area, and scenic hiking trails to enjoy. If you're looking for a more comfortable stay, consider the Tellico Plains Inn—an inviting historic landmark dating back to 1916 located right in the heart of downtown.

Columbia

Just a 50-minute drive from Nashville, Columbia makes for a delightful weekend getaway, perfect for anyone looking to relax and enjoy new surroundings. On December 6th, the town's charming Tree Lighting Ceremony will feature delicious food trucks, creative crafts, fun activities for the family, music from a DJ, and the exciting tree lighting that officially kicks off the holiday season.

Fishers can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Henry Horton State Park, where they can try their luck catching catfish and bass, while kayakers can soak in the scenic views along Duck River, with rentals available from Higher Pursuits. For something truly unique, travelers can spend the weekend sleeping underground in the rustic Gully Hut at Gully Farms, promising a memorable adventure.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are in search of outdoor adventure, fascinating history, or a cozy retreat, Tennessee's small towns offer the perfect setting for a refreshing getaway. From exploring local murals to sipping whiskey at a historic distillery, there's something for every kind of traveler. So, pack your bags and head to one of these charming towns to make the most of Tennessee's crisp fall and winter days.