Tennessee Map Of Counties Travel Guide

Introduction

Tennessee is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is bordered by Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and the Mississippi River. The state is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, vibrant music scene, and delicious food. In this comprehensive travel guide for Tennessee Map Of Counties, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the country and is located in the eastern part of the state. The park is known for its stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as camping, fishing, and horseback riding.

Graceland

Graceland is the former home of the legendary musician, Elvis Presley. The mansion is located in Memphis and is now a museum that attracts fans from all over the world. Visitors can tour the mansion, see Elvis’ collection of cars and airplanes, and even visit his grave site.

Dollywood

Dollywood is a theme park located in Pigeon Forge and is owned by the famous country singer, Dolly Parton. The park features roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment shows. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining at the park.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is located in Nashville and is dedicated to preserving the history of country music. The museum features exhibits on famous country music artists and their contributions to the genre. Visitors can also see a collection of instruments, costumes, and other memorabilia.

Hidden Gems

The Lost Sea

The Lost Sea is a unique attraction located in Sweetwater. It is the largest underground lake in America and visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and see the lake up close. The tour also includes a boat ride on the lake.

Rock City

Rock City is a natural attraction located in Lookout Mountain. It features a trail through massive rock formations, beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can also see a waterfall and a suspension bridge.

Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park

Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park is located in Jackson and is home to a complex of Native American mounds. Visitors can see the mounds up close and learn about the history of the area.

Food Scene

Tennessee is known for its delicious southern cuisine. Some must-try dishes include hot chicken, barbecue, and fried catfish. Visitors can also enjoy sweet tea, biscuits, and other southern staples. Some popular restaurants to try include Hattie B’s Hot Chicken in Nashville, Central BBQ in Memphis, and The Catfish House in Clarksville.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Visitors to Tennessee can save money by visiting during the off-season, which is typically from November to March. They can also take advantage of free attractions such as the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville and the Memphis Botanic Garden. Eating at local diners and food trucks can also save money compared to eating at restaurants.

Outdoor Adventures

Tennessee is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike in the Great Smoky Mountains, go fishing in one of the many lakes and rivers, and even go whitewater rafting. Other outdoor activities include camping, horseback riding, and ziplining.

Historical Landmarks

The Hermitage

The Hermitage is the former home of President Andrew Jackson and is located in Nashville. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about the history of the site. The property also includes a museum, gardens, and a cemetery.

The Belle Meade Plantation

The Belle Meade Plantation is a historic plantation located in Nashville. Visitors can take a tour of the mansion and learn about the history of the site. The property also includes a winery and a restaurant.

Family-Friendly Activities

Tennessee has many family-friendly activities. Some popular options include visiting the Nashville Zoo, exploring the Adventure Science Center in Nashville, and riding the roller coasters at Dollywood. Families can also enjoy spending time outdoors by hiking, fishing, and camping.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is located in Gatlinburg and features a collection of over 20,000 salt and pepper shakers from around the world. Visitors can see shakers in all shapes and sizes and learn about their history.

The Museum of Appalachia

The Museum of Appalachia is located in Clinton and is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Appalachian region. The museum features exhibits on music, crafts, and daily life in the region.

Natural Wonders

Tennessee is home to many natural wonders. Some must-see attractions include Ruby Falls, which is an underground waterfall located in Chattanooga, and Rock Island State Park, which features stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. Visitors can also explore the Cumberland Caverns, which is the second longest cave system in Tennessee.

Vibrant Nightlife

Tennessee has a vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy live music in Nashville’s honky-tonks, explore the bars and clubs in Memphis, or sip cocktails at one of Chattanooga’s rooftop bars. Other popular nightlife destinations include Knoxville and Gatlinburg.

Local Markets

Tennessee is home to many local markets where visitors can buy fresh produce, crafts, and other goods. Some popular markets include the Nashville Farmers’ Market, the Memphis Farmers’ Market, and the Chattanooga Market. Visitors can also explore the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community, which features over 100 artisans.

Beaches and Mountains

Tennessee is home to both beaches and mountains. Visitors can relax on the beaches of Reelfoot Lake in the western part of the state or enjoy the stunning mountain views in the eastern part of the state. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see destination for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Cultural Immersion

Tennessee is a great place to immerse yourself in southern culture. Visitors can attend a country music concert in Nashville, explore the blues scene in Memphis, or attend a festival in one of the small towns in the state. Other cultural experiences include visiting the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis and exploring the African American Heritage Trail in Nashville.

Art and Music Scene

Tennessee is home to many talented artists and musicians. Visitors can explore the galleries and studios in Nashville’s arts district, attend a concert at the Ryman Auditorium, or visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Other popular music destinations include the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville and the Beale Street Historic District in Memphis.

Walking Tours

Tennessee’s cities are great places to explore on foot. Visitors can take a walking tour of Nashville’s historic district, explore the Riverwalk in Chattanooga, or take a ghost tour in Memphis. Other popular walking tours include the Civil War Walking Tour in Franklin and the Haunted Knoxville Ghost Tour.

Architectural Marvels

Tennessee is home to many architectural marvels. Some must-see sites include the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, which is located just across the border from Tennessee, and the Parthenon in Nashville, which is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece. Visitors can also explore the historic homes in Savannah and the mansions in Memphis.

Historical Sites

Tennessee has a rich history and is home to many historical sites. Some popular sites include the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site in Greeneville, the Shiloh National Military Park in Shiloh, and the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Visitors can also explore the historic district in Franklin, which features many well-preserved buildings from the 19th century.

Biking Routes

Tennessee is a great place for biking enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway, which stretches from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi, or take a leisurely ride along the Tennessee Riverwalk in Chattanooga. Other popular routes include the Shelby Farms Greenline in Memphis and the Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail in Ashland City.

Wellness Retreats

Tennessee is a great place to relax and rejuvenate. Visitors can take a yoga class at one of Nashville’s many studios, enjoy a massage at one of the state’s many spas, or take a meditation class in Chattanooga. Other popular wellness destinations