With diverse landscapes, a rich musical heritage, and warm Southern hospitality, Tennessee is a state that has much to offer those who visit. Whether you’re looking to make a musical pilgrimage, admire the state’s areas of natural beauty, or explore the culture through your stomach, here are some reasons that you should be looking up flights to Tennessee immediately!
Musical Heritage
The birthplace of country music, blues, rock ‘n’ roll and so much more, Tennessee is synonymous with music, and whatever your tastes, you’re bound to find somewhere that appeals.
Begin your journey in the state capital of Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry, where country legends such as Elvis, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and Hank Williams have all performed. If you’re an audiophile, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-do to take a journey through the history and evolution of country music.
There’s nothing quite like meandering down Broadway Street, where an abundance of live music pours out of honky-tonk bars day and night, and if you’re hoping to catch a larger-scale show The Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” is the place to be.
No musical pilgrimage is complete without a visit to Memphis, the home of blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. If you’re an Elvis fan, you need to book some flights to Tennessee! Of course, no trip would be complete without a visit to Graceland, the home of the King and the Sun Studio tour is another must-do, to see where legends such as Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their hits.
Natural Beauty
The natural landscapes of Tennessee are diverse and stunning, which makes it ideal for nature lovers to explore. Beginning with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, its 800 miles of hiking trails, bountiful wildlife, and stunning views make it the most visited national park in the United States. Time your hike to reach Clingmans Dome for sunrise or sunset, for breathtaking panoramic views at the highest point.
If you want to chase waterfalls, there are plenty of options in Tennessee from the magnificent, 145-foot underground, Ruby Falls in Chattanooga, to Fall Creek Falls State Park which has several beautiful waterfalls including Fall Creek Falls itself which, at 256 feet, is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States.
Rich History
History buffs have plenty to explore in Tennessee, such as the Museum of East Tennessee History in Knoxville, which tells the story of the region's rich past.
The seventh President of the United States, Andrew Jackson is celebrated at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage in Nashville, where you can learn insights about his life on guided tours around his mansions and surrounding grounds.
Civil War enthusiasts will find much to explore in Chattanooga, particularly the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park and the Lookout Mountain Battlefield, which offers historical markers, monuments, and a unique glimpse into such a pivotal point in the nation’s history.
Another great town with links to Civil War sites is Franklin, just South of Nashville, where you can visit the Carter House and Carnton Plantation, which offers fascinating historical insights, as well as peruse boutique shops and enjoy fantastic dining options.
Culinary Delights
The culinary scene in Tennessee mirrors its music, in its diverse and exciting offerings. If you find yourself in Memphis, you must try some traditional Memphis-style barbecue dishes, such as slow-cooked ribs and smoky pulled pork. For the full Southern comfort experience, be sure to try collard greens and cornbread on the side.
Over in Nashville, spicy fried chicken is a fiery delicacy, or for something milder, head to one of the many “meat-and-three” restaurants for an authentic Southern experience where you can select one meat dish and three side dishes. For the perfect sweet treat after your meal, make sure you try the GooGoo Cluster, Nashville’s official candy made of caramel, marshmallow nougat, and roasted peanuts covered in milk chocolate.
Charming Towns and Cities
Once you’ve ticked off the more popular cities of Nashville and Memphis, don’t write Tennessee off yet. The state is home to many delightful towns and cities with plenty to offer for those who take the time to visit.
Jonesborough is the oldest town in Tennessee and is home to the International Storytelling Centre, the Tennessee Hills Distillery, and the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum which takes visitors on a journey of Jonesborough from its inception in 1779 to the present day.
Gatlinburg is a quaint mountain town, nestled in the Smoky Mountains, which hosts a variety of attractions, such as Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park which was named the best lookout in Tennessee.
Festivals and Special Events
Throughout the year, Tennessee offers a smorgasbord of diverse and exciting festivals and events to celebrate the area's rich culture, music, and traditions. Country music fans must head to Nashville for the CMA Music Festival which offers four jam-packed days of live music, fan experiences, and meet-and-greets.
The Memphis in May International Festival really does offer something for everyone with a River Run, World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, and Beale Street Music Festival, while over in Manchester, the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival does exactly what it says on the tin. One of the most famous music festivals in the country, the 2024 lineup featured monumental music stars such as Post Malone, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fred Again, and Pretty Lights.
If you time your trip just right, you’ll be able to experience the most that Tennessee has to offer, but even without these special events, you won’t be disappointed. It’s so easy to see why so many people flock to Tenessee every single year, with many music enthusiasts considering it a pilgrimage! From places of historical significance to celebrations of musical greats and areas of outstanding natural beauty, not to mention the best barbecue (and whiskey!) no trip to the South is complete without a visit to Tennessee.
