Why Tennessee Should Be Your Next Vacation Destination
Tennessee continues to rank among the top U.S. vacation spots, and it’s not by accident. With its rolling hills, bustling cities, musical landmarks, and national parks, the state serves up something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing scenic drives, world-famous barbecue, or rich Appalachian heritage, Tennessee offers the kind of diversity that makes planning your next trip exciting, not overwhelming.
From family friendly activities and kid friendly attractions to scenic fishing lakes and romantic escapes, Tennessee vacations can be as action-packed or as relaxing as you like. Add to that the legendary hospitality that defines a Tennessee home, and it’s no wonder this state draws travelers from nearby Virginia and Kentucky, and far beyond.
Looking for gear rentals, event setups, or outdoor essentials? KT Rents delivers exactly what you need for a stress-free adventure. We help you stay focused on the memories, not the logistics.
Explore the Best Tennessee Hiking Trails
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Known for its lush biodiversity and mist-covered peaks, the Smokies are home to over 800 miles of hiking trails. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find inspiration in spots like Clingmans Dome, Alum Cave Trail, and Abrams Falls. Wildlife is abundant, expect to see deer, wild turkeys, and maybe even black bears.
The park is also perfect for fishing, camping, and scenic drives. Whether you’re up for a full-day trek or a short family-friendly hike, the Smokies truly offer something for every kind of adventurer.
Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
On the Cumberland Plateau, Big South Fork is a quieter alternative to the Smokies. With rugged cliffs, sandstone arches, and extensive equestrian and mountain biking trails, this park offers a more rustic slice of the great outdoors. It’s ideal for those who love multi-day camping trips or who want to unplug for a while.
You can also go whitewater rafting here, or plan a day of catch-and-release fishing in the clear, winding rivers.
Roan Mountain State Park
For mountain air and breathtaking blooms, Roan Mountain State Park delivers. During summer, temperatures stay cooler here, and the park’s spruce-fir forests feel a world away from the heat. Hike the Cloudland Trail or take a stroll through the world’s largest natural rhododendron garden.
Planning to camp under the stars or fish in the Doe River? We’ve got all the gear you need, view our rentals to make your basecamp effortless.
Family Friendly Activities and Vacation Destinations for Your Next Trip
Dollywood & Splash Country (Pigeon Forge)
Dollywood continues to impress visitors of all ages with thrilling rides, down-home eats, live shows, and seasonal festivals. In 2025, the theme park is celebrating its 40th anniversary with new attractions and upgraded experiences. Right next door, Splash Country offers water slides, lazy rivers, and cabana rentals for families looking to cool off.
DreamMore Resort completes the experience with live music, storytelling, and indoor play zones, perfect for winding down after a big park day.
Gatlinburg
Just outside the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a mix of natural beauty and family fun. The SkyLift and SkyBridge offer scenic thrills, while Ripley’s Aquarium, mini golf courses, and hands-on candy shops are some of the top kid friendly attractions in the area.
Stay in a cozy cabin, roast marshmallows under the stars, or explore the many interactive exhibits in town museums. This mountain town blends charm and excitement like nowhere else.
Chattanooga
Chattanooga is a vibrant city full of outdoor attractions and educational fun. Families flock to Lookout Mountain’s Rock City, where massive boulders, gnome-filled gardens, and panoramic views of seven states await. Add in the Chattanooga Zoo, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the Creative Discovery Museum, and you’ve got an itinerary packed with kid-friendly activities.
Whether you’re petting animals, exploring caverns, or learning through play, Chattanooga serves as a perfect blend of education and entertainment.
Knoxville
In Knoxville, adventure meets culture. Head to the newly expanded Zoo Knoxville to meet red pandas, elephants, giraffes, and more. Then spend a few hours at a Knoxville museum like the East Tennessee History Center or the Knoxville Museum of Art, where interactive exhibits bring the region’s past to life. This underrated gem in East TN offers a relaxed pace, great food, and easy access to mountain day trips.
Tips for Traveling with Kids in Tennessee
Break up your days with both indoor and outdoor activities, and choose hotels or cabins with extra space to unwind. Stopping at a zoo, museum, or theme park adds energy and variety to road trips. Don’t forget to pack snacks, and consider renting outdoor gear like picnic tables, coolers, and sunshades from KT Rents for your adventure basecamp.
Experience Tennessee’s Live Music and Cultural Hotspots
Nashville (Music City)
Music lovers should look no further than Nashville. With its iconic honky-tonks, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Country Music Hall of Fame, the city is built around the sound of guitars, fiddles, and storytelling. Local breweries, rooftop bars, and top-tier restaurants line Broadway and nearby neighborhoods.
Every night offers a new setlist, and with so many live music options, there’s no shortage of fun for adults and families alike.
Memphis
Memphis is where soul music, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll intersect. Walk Beale Street, visit the estate of Elvis Presley at Graceland, and explore the deep history of American music at the Stax and Sun Studios. Don’t miss the National Civil Rights Museum or the chance to try authentic Memphis barbecue.
The city is also home to wildlife parks, riverfront trails, and live festivals that combine history, food, and entertainment year-round.
Johnson City
Tucked in East Tennessee near the Virginia border, Johnson City is a rising destination for both outdoor lovers and foodies. Known for its breweries, greenway trails, and local music scene, it’s the perfect place to slow down. From fishing in Boone Lake to hiking Buffalo Mountain Park, there’s plenty to explore.
And if you love to eat, this town’s farm-to-table restaurants and weekend farmers markets deliver Appalachian flavor with flair.
Small Towns and Hidden Gems Across Middle Tennessee
Leiper’s Fork
Located just west of Franklin in Middle Tennessee, Leiper’s Fork is a creative village where art, antiques, and music blend effortlessly. Sip a coffee at the local shop, browse galleries filled with Southern artwork, or catch a live acoustic set by a Grammy-winning artist in a barn.
Jonesborough
As Tennessee’s oldest town, Jonesborough is full of preserved architecture, historical walking tours, and the famous National Storytelling Festival. It’s an ideal stop for adults who appreciate culture, crafts, and old-fashioned charm.
Greeneville
Home to the legacy of President Andrew Johnson, Greeneville offers a slower pace, Civil War history, and quiet landscapes. The local inn and surrounding foothills make this a serene and scenic base for nearby hikes and history tours.
Unique Stay Things in Tennessee: From Luxury Resorts to Glamping
Resorts & Boutique Hotels
Looking to elevate your getaway? Resorts like Blackberry Farm in Walland and Dollywood’s Dream More Resort offer top-tier service, fine dining, and access to private trails or spas. The estate-style grounds at these properties are perfect for a couple’s retreat or upscale family trip.
Cabins, Treehouses, and Glamping
Treehouse rentals, dome tents, and luxury tiny homes are trending in Tennessee’s mountain regions. These unique stay things put you close to nature without giving up comfort. They’re ideal for romantic weekends, family bonding, or a memorable solo adventure.
Camping & RVing in State Parks
Tennessee’s state parks offer scenic campgrounds with options for tent camping, RVs, and even cabin rentals. Great spots include Fall Creek Falls, Norris Dam, and Natchez Trace. Amenities like fire pits, trails, and nearby water for fishingmake these parks a favorite for travelers of all types.
KT Rents provides the gear to help you settle in, tents, tables, cooking equipment, and more.
Planning Your Tennessee Vacation: Tips & Tools
Best Times to Visit
Tennessee has four distinct seasons:
- Spring: Ideal for blooms, cool hikes, and festivals.
- Summer: Great for swimming, tubing, and lake time.
- Fall: Peak season for foliage, harvest events, and crisp air.
- Winter: Enjoy ski season at Ober Mountain or cozy up by the fireplace in a cabin.
How to Get Around
Major highways connect TN to Kentucky and Virginia, making Tennessee extremely road-trip friendly. Scenic drives like the Cherohala Skyway or the Natchez Trace are worth the detour. Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga all have airports and car rental access.
Gear Up for Your Trip
Whether you’re planning a cookout, hiking getaway, or mountain-side family reunion, KT Rents has rental solutions tailored to your trip. From outdoor furniture and fire pits to event tents and coolers, we bring convenience to your journey.
FAQs About Tennessee Vacation Spots
What Is The #1 Tourist Destination In Tennessee?
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to be the state’s top destination, drawing over 10 million visitors annually.
What Are The Best Vacation Spots For Families In Tennessee?
Top picks include Dollywood, Gatlinburg, the Chattanooga Zoo, Zoo Knoxville, and Rock City, places full of hands-on, kid friendly attractions.
Is Tennessee A Good Place For Adults To Travel?
Absolutely. Between live music, outdoor escapes, winery tours, and estate stays, Tennessee offers countless options for adult getaways.
What Are The Most Affordable Ways To Explore Tennessee?
Camp in state parks, stay in a budget-friendly Airbnb, or explore free attractions like public hiking trails and festivals. Renting gear from KT Rents can also save you time and money on bulky equipment.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Tennessee Getaway
Tennessee offers more than a destination, it offers an experience. From theme park thrills to peaceful cabin mornings, music-filled nights to mountain hikes, it’s a state that caters to every age and every interest. Ready to turn your travel dreams into plans?
Let KT Rents support your adventure.
We’re here to help with rental solutions that simplify your setup and amplify your fun.