Great Smokey Mountains National Park

Famous for its diversity of wildlife, the breathtaking beauty of the mountains, and unique landscape design, Great Smokey Mountains National Park is one of the greatest and most visited national parks in the US. You can choose between short, scenic hikes or extravagant, challenging treks. Or, you can camp overnight under the stars and absorb Great Smokey’s wilderness. Either way, a trip to this sought-after destination won’t be disappointed. 

Gatlinburg

One of Tennessee’s most romantic yet family-friendly towns, Gatlinburg is a scenic series of streets and shops right in the mouth of the mountains. The town is full of entertainment, adventure parks, and fun museums. Gatlinburg is also home to Ober Gatlinburg, Tennessee’s only ski resorts, bringing in tons of visitors during the winter season.

What to do in Gatlinburg

• Gatlinburg SkyLift Park – scenic chairlift ride up the mountain
• Anakeesta – adventure park
• Ole Smokey Moonshine – distillery
• Wild Bear Falls Water Park

Knoxville

Knoxville offers a fantastic to its locals and visitors. The is packed with exceptional Southern food, a beautiful downtown, and some of the greatest outdoor adventures in the state. Knoxville is also reputable for its sports-centric is also a road trip away from the Great Smoky Mountains.

What to do in Knoxville:

• Sunsphere
• Navitat – treetop adventures
• Zoo Knoxville
• Old City Historic District

Johnson City

The entire Johnson City is surrounded with a breathtaking backdrop of the Smokey Mountains. It consists of a cute mountain town personality, with unique shops dispersed among the mountains. In the fall, Johnson City blooms of vibrant red and orange colors, while in the winter, it turns into a white wonderland. Perfect to visit all throughout the year, although be prepared to have some fun outdoors! 

What to do in Johnson City:

• Winged Deer Park 
• Yee-Haw Brewery 
• Buffalo Mountain Park 
• Tweetsie Trail

Nashville

The list can’t be complete without Nashville. Nashville is full of bustling energy, crazy city attractions, and some of the most famous country music halls in the world. The nightlife scene in Nashville is hard to beat, with eccentric bars, lively pubs, and a show on every corner. Even if you’re not from the South, you’ll be ready to smack on some boots after visiting the Music City. 

What to do in Nashville:

• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Grand Ole Opry
• Broadway Street Nightlife 

Bristol

Bristol is a small, charming town with several adventurous, tourist-friendly activities. Bristol is also a scenic town with alluring views everywhere you look, from sky-scraping mountains to rolling hills, and everything in between. Bristol is a peaceful town perfect for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, or enjoy taste testing at one of the town’s reputable breweries. 

What to do in Bristol: 

• Bristol Caverns
• Bristol Harbour 
• Ashton Court
• Bristol’s Speakeasies 

Big South Fork National River

Big South Fork National River is a majestic site that stretches through the center of the state. Decorated with powerful cliffs, waterfalls, rapid rivers, and wild rock formations. Big South Fork is a secretive gem of Tennessee, unlike more touristy national parks, making it a mysterious and fun place to explore.