The Volunteer State is a great place to visit because of the many attractions in its different towns. In this Tennessee Vacation guide, we have rounded up our favorite Tennessee vacation attractions to help you begin planning your vacation.
Locals and tourists flock to Tennessee because of the popular attractions in places such as Nashville, Memphis, Pigeon Forge, Chattanooga, and also Gatlinburg.
In Nashville, visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Tennessee State Museum. For those who love history and museums, Memphis is definitely the town for you.
No matter what you’re into, you’ll find something you like in this list of Tennessee Vacation Attractions.
What Is The Number One Attraction In Tennessee?
Dollywood is Tennessee’s most popular amusement park, located in Pigeon Forge. With three million people visiting annually, it is home to thrilling rides, exciting shows, and tasty dining options.
Some of the park’s most popular attractions include:
- Timber Tower drop ride
- Wild Eagle
- Thunderhead roller coaster
- Dollywood Express
- Lightning Rod wooden coaster
Dollywood also features a variety of musical and theatrical performances, including the Smoky Mountain Christmas show.
Aside from Dollywood, there are a lot of other attractions in Tennessee that are equally amazing and that your family will enjoy.
In this resource guide, we’ve rounded up some attractions you will want to visit more than once. Check them out!
Tennessee Vacation Attractions
Dollywood has a lot of attractions that will keep the whole family entertained. From thrill rides and shows to a water park and great food, there is something for everyone at Dollywood.
If you're bringing your tots, you don't have to worry because there are also tons of things for them to do in this number 1 attraction in Tennessee.
Continue reading to know more!
Smoky Mountains isn't just all about hiking and camping. In fact, there are lots of unique things you can do here. From visiting the Smoky Mountains Cat House and Touring the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, to trying out zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park, there's something for you in the Smokies!
The Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, TN is a tribute to RMS Titanic which has been carefully recreated to look just like the original ship. The museum is full of fascinating exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the Titanic, from its construction to its tragic sinking. Visitors can explore the ship, learn about its history, and see some of the original artifacts from the Titanic.
If you love history, then Memphis is the town for you. The National Civil Rights Museum is a complex of museums and historic buildings in Memphis, Tennessee; its mission is to "tell the story of the American Civil Rights Movement and the quest for social justice." Check it out to know more!
The Creative Discovery Museum in Chattanooga, TN is a great place to take the family. There are many interactive exhibits that will keep the kids entertained while they learn. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and they offer a variety of programs for families. We highly recommend this museum to anyone looking for a great place to take the kids.
See your favorite stars at the Hollywood wax museum in Pigeon Forge!
The World’s Fair Park is nestled in the heart of downtown Knoxville and features various activities and attractions that are perfect for anyone in the family.
The park is home to one of Knoxville's iconic structures, the Sunsphere, which was built during the 1980s.
If you love adventure, then Ober Gatlinburg is the place to be. Ober Gatlinburg is a world-famous ski resort in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. It is also home to an incredible water park, which makes it the perfect place to visit year-round.
Ober Gatlinburg is a great place to visit for both skiing and snowboarding. The resort has a variety of slopes, ranging from beginner to expert, so there is something for everyone.
The snowboarding terrain park is one of the best in the country and is sure to thrill even the most experienced riders.
For music lovers, you better not miss the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. It is a must-see for any country music fan. The museum features exhibits on the history of country music, as well as the artists who have made it what it is today. Book a trip today!
The Home of Elvis Presley in Graceland Memphis is now considered one of the most famous homes in America. Thousands of Elvis fans visit Graceland each year to tour the home and learn about the life of the late singer. If you're an Elvis Presley fan, you better not skip Graceland!
If you love the feeling of an adrenaline rush, you should give whitewater rafting in Tennessee a try!
Have you always dreamed of seeing the Parthenon? I've got good news for you! You don't have to travel far just to see this beauty. There's a replica in Nashville, TN that you can go to! Don't miss it!
One of the best places to visit in Chattanooga is the Tennessee Aquarium. The facility is home to more than 12,000 animals, many of which are native to the area. The Aquarium also features several interactive exhibits, making it an excellent place for the whole family to enjoy!
Another must-visit Aquarium in Tennessee is the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, TN.
The American Museum of Science & Energy is one of the coolest attractions in Tennessee because it's all about energy! From how it's generated to how we use it, this museum has tons of hands-on exhibits that will educate and entertain everyone in the family.
Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Download Our FREE Smoky Mountains Checklist!
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