The tremendous place that is Tennessee; it is the thirty sixth largest and the sixteenth most populous of all fifty United States. You may be passing through Tennessee on a long road trip through America or you might be dropping nearby to see family. Whatever your reason for visiting, be sure to plan ahead so you don’t miss out on the amazing sights it has to offer. You will find the best food, attractions and nature spots that will please the whole family. Look out for your favourite things to do and take your pick from the guide below.
Feeling Foody
You might not know that Tennessee is world famous for its whiskey. Drop into a local bar or restaurant and you’re bound to find a sample of the finest Whiskey around. Memphis is also known for its barbecue food such as ribs and pork, so if you’re into meats head there for the best selection you’ll ever find. Even if you’re on a budget an needing to eat in hotel rooms from time to time be sure to branch out and try at least one of the amazing restaurants in Tennessee.
Memphis holds an annual World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and there are so many restaurants that you should head to on your visit. Places such as Hog and Hominy, which has a laid back atmosphere are ideal for delicious grub. Or if you fancy a more fine-dining experience there is Peabody Hotel’s Chez Phillipe, which serves amazing French cuisine, certain to tantalize your taste buds. Finally, Folk’s Folly is said to be the best steakhouse in Memphis which even has its own butcher shop next door. There you can enjoy delicious grilled food such as king crab and duck breast, it is definitely a sharing experience for all the family.
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In Touch With Nature
You might be surprised to know that the number one most visited national park is the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. Not many people realise that it is ranked at the top of the list of best National Parks in the US. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty that surprisingly has just as many visitors as the Grand Canyon!
Also known as, ‘The Smokies,’ The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is situated in the small town of Gatlinburg. You can experience hiking trails, the observation tower and even a close by amusement park. These attractions are not to be missed when visiting the tremendous state of Tennessee. Every member of the family will find something fun to explore here.
Another nature-related excursion that is sure to impress you is the Lost Sea Adventure in Sweetwater, near Knoxville. It is a vast cave structure with the biggest underwater lake in the whole of the United States. You can choose the guided tour to suit you, from exciting trips on a boat to historical tours. You will see the fascinating Cavern Tavern which was a room invented by locals after the war. Whilst you’re in the area take a browse around the quaint shops in the Old Sweetwater Village too.
Don’t Stop The Music
You can’t take a trip to Tennessee without paying a visit to some of the more infamous music related attractions in the US. Elvis Presley’s Graceland Estate is one of the top attractions. You can receive a grand tour of his home which will give you exclusive insight into his life. His stately home remains untouched since 1977 when he sadly died there. You will see his amazingly grand scale collection of cars and aircraft and you can even stay over at the famous Heartbreak Hotel!
Being a fan of music means that you must know how world-famous Nashville is for its country music. Take a tour around the Country Music Hall of fame and check out the famous Music Row. Head to a downtown bar and listen to local artists who are wanting to break into the country music industry. You’ll become one of the locals in no time!
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Pay Your Respects To The Troops
It cannot go unnoticed that Tennessee is what it is today because of war. It is one of the states who provided more soldiers than any other and many battles have been witnessed during horrific struggles. There are museums and memorials which portray pay respects to those who fought in the wars. There is also Shiloh National Military park which is contains almost four thousands graves. It is a touching and humbling experience to be in the presence of such heroes.
Toot Toot, All Aboard
If you’re travelling with little ones, or maybe you just love a train adventure, be sure to take a ride on the Chattanooga and Tennessee Valley Railroad. It holds a historic importance within the state as wood, cotton and military supplies were shipped. It is amazing to see how this history has been preserved and well-kept. You can now take an hour long steam train ride on the Tennessee Valley Railroad and even join in the exciting events at the Tennessee Railfest. Choose from a range of dinner packages and day trips which will suit everybody on the trip!
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Titanic Museum
Pigeon Forge in Tennessee is home to the world’s largest Titanic Museum. The building represents the ship itself and was built to represent half the scale of the real Titanic. You will soon discover hundreds of preserved artefacts and galleries. You may feel like you’re actually on board the famous ship as it was designed especially with that goal in mind. You can spend up to two hours in the museums exploring the wonders it has to offer. Definitely worth a visit so be sure to pop that on your Tennessee bucket list.
Whether you’re cultural, musical or all natural, you’re bound to find the sights and scenes to suit you. Take a taste of Tennessee as soon as you get the opportunity and sample the finest gems it has to offer. You will be heading back for more of the adventurous fun in no time.
