Tennessee is a great state for travelers looking for different experiences. This Tennessee vacation guide will give you a run down on the best cities to visit in Tennessee, from its rich music culture to its beautiful landscapes and so much more!
The eastern part of Tennessee is more lush and green and mountainous, while the western part is mostly flat to gently rolling. The Volunteer State contains many natural attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, the Cumberland Plateau, and the Highland rim, among others.
Each city offers tons of outdoor activities for visitors, such as hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, and camping. The state has several large lakes for boating and swimming and miles of rivers for rafting or kayaking.
Whether you’re looking for a city with amazing food or one with plenty of things to do, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. Check out our top picks for the best cities to visit in Tennessee!
What Part Of Tennessee Is The Most Beautiful?
The most beautiful part of Tennessee is the Great Smoky Mountains. The mountains offer stunning views, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the area, such as hiking and camping.
Visitors can also enjoy fishing, white water rafting, horseback riding, and many other outdoor activities. This part of the state is filled with lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and amazing wildlife.
The Great Smoky Mountains are a perfect place to get away from it all and relax in nature.
Tennessee is also home to some great cities and towns. Nashville is the state capital, but there are many smaller towns that offer a variety of attractions.
Memphis is known for its music scene, while Knoxville has an impressive selection of museums and galleries.
Chattanooga has recently become a popular outdoor destination due to its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains and dozens of rivers and streams.
Best Cities To Visit in Tennessee
Whether you're looking for a city full of activities or an unforgettable outdoor adventure, here are some of the best cities to visit in Tennessee:
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is the perfect destination for a family vacation. With a variety of attractions, including the popular Smoky Mountains, there's something to please everyone in your group. From scenic hikes and zip lines to amusement parks and aquariums, Gatlinburg has plenty to offer when it comes to entertainment.
And with plenty of the best restaurants in Gatlinburg offering a variety of cuisines, you won't have to go far to find something delicious.
Pigeon Forge in Tennessee is situated in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and provides visitors with a wide range of attractions, including the Dollywood theme park.
Best known as the home to country music icon Dolly Parton, Pigeon Forge offers a number of outdoor activities, such as hiking trails, bike trails, and RV camping. In addition, it is home to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shops.
As the capital of Tennessee and home to country music, Nashville is a must-see for any traveler. From its numerous attractions like the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Ryman Auditorium to the RV campgrounds and ATV trails near Nashville, there’s something for everyone in Nashville.
Memphis is the largest city in Tennessee and one of the most popular tourist destinations. Best known for being the home to Elvis Presley, Memphis boasts a vibrant music scene, legendary barbecue restaurants, and a range of attractions, including Graceland, Beale Street, and Mud Island River Park.
You can also find RV parks that are near Memphis that offer BBQ and rhythm and blues for a great experience.
In Knoxville, Tennessee, you can find the historical World's Fair Park, where the World’s Fair of 1982 was held. The park boasts a man-made lake and many beautiful gardens, as well as several monuments that commemorate the history of Knoxville and its successful hosting of the fair.
There are also quite a few museums in Knoxville, such as the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture, which houses some fascinating artifacts and unique exhibits.
In Chattanooga, you will find plenty of outdoor activities as well as a surprisingly vibrant music scene. The Tennessee Aquarium is a popular tourist attraction featuring exotic species from around the world that thrive in their simulated ecosystems.
The city of Chattanooga is nestled between mountains and rivers and offers plenty to see and do. There are several RV campgrounds where you can go hiking, biking, camping, or simply enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.
Download This FREE Winter Packing List For The Smokies
Related Smoky Mountain Resources
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- 125+ Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
It’s only fitting that you have the nicest camera when you go on vacation in different cities. You might want to check out these recommendations from PhotoJeepers for the best travel photography gear so you can capture the best memories on your vacation.
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