9 Best Attractions To Visit In Tennessee
Tennessee is a wonderland in the southern part of the US with more than its fair share of attractions. Known for its iconic stops and landmarks, such as the Titanic Museum and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From waterslides, waterfalls, and underwater delights to landmarks that share essential pieces of American and international histories, these hot spots have more than earned their place on Tennessee's highlight reel.
Graceland, Memphis
The city of Memphis is practically synonymous with music, so it is a fitting backdrop for Graceland, home of the legendary Elvis Presley. The entire complex spans more than 200,000 square feet and includes the mansion where he lived and a museum that showcases his signature jumpsuits, automobile collection, and personal memorabilia. Visitors can also pay their respects with a visit to the gardens at Graceland, where Elvis is buried along with his daughter, Lisa Marie, and other family members.
After hours, Graceland hosts live concerts in its 20,000 square-foot entertainment venue and boasts a guesthouse, where visitors can spend a night and sleep like the King. For a true VIP experience, book the exclusive Presley for a Day tour, which includes a personal tour, concierge service, transportation via golf cart, and access to spaces not available to the general public.
Titanic Museum, Pigeon Forge
The Titanic Museum is a grand opportunity to immerse oneself in the atmosphere and allure of the Titanic, the infamous British ocean liner that struck an iceberg and sank in 1912 on its maiden voyage. This museum in Pigeon Forge shares stories from the ship and explores its trajectory from a feat of engineering to a pop culture phenomenon. The building is a landmark unto itself, built as a half-scale replica of the original Titanic, with 22,000 square feet of history, more than 400 maritime artifacts, and interactive exhibits that will transport you back in time.
While visiting, you may notice the 19th-century Grand Piano as you stroll the decks, climb the Grand Staircase, view third-class cabin rooms, and even take the wheel yourself. From Hollywood memorabilia to tragic stories of lives lost at sea, it is a worthy destination for historians and film fans alike.
Ruby Falls, Chattanooga
In Chattanooga, Ruby Falls is a majestic and almost mythical attraction. Here, you will find the tallest underground waterfall in the country. First discovered in 1928 by an ambitious explorer, the waterfall is a primary feature of Lookout Mountain. The 145-foot landmark is accessible via a 260-foot glass elevator down into the caves.
There are a number of options when it comes to tours. From gentle walking tours at a slower pace led by an expert guide to express cave walks that highlight the waterfall, and even history tours and after-hours lantern tours on Friday nights, visitors can tailor the experience to suit their needs and preferences. Aside from the falls, you can explore the castle at Ruby Falls and climb to the top of the Lookout Mountain Tower with views of the Cumberland Plateau and Tennessee River, or zoom across treetops on a zipline, creating a thrilling mixture of allure and adrenaline. The castle was built from limestone excavated during the construction of the elevator shaft, and was once a popular gathering spot for the local elite. Today, it is home to a cafe with a seasonal menu and selection of craft beers on tap.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg
Straddling both Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must for all outdoor explorers in and around its gateway town of Gatlinburg. With more than 520,000 acres of stunning landscapes to explore, it is no wonder this is the most visited national park in the country. As an Appalachian subrange with blissful ancient mountains, diverse wildflower species, and various animal habitats ranging from black bears to salamanders and bats, you may find natural comfort in many ways here.
Hikers flock for access to waterfalls and the iconic Appalachian Trail, and popular trails near town include Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome), the highest point in the park and the state, with an observation tower at the summit boasting 360° views of the Smokies for more than 100 miles on a clear day. Alum Cave is a challenging route that takes ambitious hikers over log bridges through dense forest and the tunnel at Arch Rock to the summit of Mount LeConte. For something more relaxed and easily accessible, Laurel Falls is a paved trail near the Sugarlands Visitor Center, minutes from Gatlinburg. No matter how you explore this natural wonder and national treasure, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not to be missed.
National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis
Another Memphis highlight worth considering, the National Civil Rights Museum is a unique and essential landmark of civil rights history. Set within the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, it provides comprehensive exhibits on the American civil rights movement and chronicles the importance of political figures and authorities who helped make social change possible today.
A tour of the museum promises a deeply moving journey through the history of civil rights in America, from the era of slavery and Jim Crow laws to the modern fight for justice and equality. Its powerful, immersive exhibits include pieces about slavery in America, sit-ins, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., all of which guide visitors through pivotal moments that shaped the movement and continue to influence public perception and racial equity today.
Beyond the displays, the museum hosts lectures, programs, and group tours that enrich understanding of America’s ongoing struggle for civil and human rights. Whether you spend a couple of hours exploring the galleries or engage more deeply with its educational offerings, you’ll encounter stories that challenge, inspire, and illuminate the enduring quest for freedom and equality.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Nashville
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is an interactive attraction in Nashville that is just as historically important as it is culturally significant. This museum is a must-visit for fans of country music, but there is truly something for everyone here. From legendary outfits and classic instruments to exhibits that trace the roots of country music from its early beginnings to its vibrant present, every display highlights the artists’ creative journeys and cultural impact.
Whether you’re drawn by Hank Williams’s enduring influence, the Hall of Fame Rotunda honoring music’s greatest contributors, or the interactive exhibits that celebrate both heritage and innovation, the museum’s rich storytelling and energetic atmosphere make it a captivating destination. Inside, you’ll also find the 776-seat CMA Theater, a celebrated venue for live performances, televised events, and special programs that bring country music to life. Even if country music isn’t your usual genre, the experience is sure to reel you in with its deep appreciation for the art form and its enduring spirit.
Dollywood, Pigeon Forge
Speaking of country music icons, Dollywood is a cultural attraction and amusement park getaway in the Great Smoky Mountains that brings joy to millions of visitors each year. Owned by the legendary Dolly Parton, the 160-acre park brings together rollercoasters and a waterpark, live music, and Southern cuisine to make for a festive stop.
Dollywood is also home to dozens of unique shops, where you can browse everything from classic Smoky Mountain souvenirs, handmade crafts, and fresh-baked treats to themed apparel, airbrushed T-shirts, and one-of-a-kind gifts that capture the spirit of your visit. To make the most of your trip, there are a range of accommodation options, including HeartSong Lodge, DreamMore Resort & Spa, and Bear Cove Cabins.
The Parthenon, Nashville
In the heart of Nashville's Centennial Park is a treat that will bring incredible memories. The Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the Athenian Parthenon, built in the 1890s. Nashville's Parthenon was originally built in 1897 to celebrate the city's 100th birthday. Today, the landmark is home to a museum and gallery that explores the history of both Parthenons and displays more than 60 exquisite works by 19th and 20th-century American artists.
One of the highlights of the museum is a historically accurate replica of the 42-foot statue of Athena Parthenos, one of the tallest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. In Centennial Park, visitors can explore 132 acres of urban greenspace that includes several historic monuments and gardens, walking paths, and Lake Watauga.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg
If you are exploring downtown Gatlinburg, you will find another attraction that deserves more praise. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a sprawling marine science landmark with aquatic life of all kinds, like penguins, jellyfish, and sharks. The museum is home to many creatures that provide playful encounters for kids of all ages.
If it is your first time at the aquarium, you will not want to pass up on a glass-bottom boat ride or the 340-foot underwater tunnel through the Shark Lagoon, where you can find yourself surrounded by tropical fish, stingrays, and other exotics without fear. Others may like the Penguin Playhouse, where children can roam around and crawl through passageways while being up close with the endangered species. This is definitely no ordinary aquarium, as guests will always find something to love and cherish when it comes to underwater spectacles.
Take a Trip to the Volunteer State and Discover it all Yourself
Tennessee’s mix of historical, cultural, and family-friendly attractions offers something memorable for every kind of traveler. From the powerful storytelling of the National Civil Rights Museum to the rich musical legacy preserved at the Country Music Hall of Fame and the playful charm of Dollywood, each destination reflects a different side of the state’s character. Keeping these attractions in mind allows you to discover not only remarkable landmarks and scenic locales, but also meaningful experiences that celebrate history, creativity, and togetherness, leaving visitors with lasting memories and plenty to smile about.
