When it comes to natural beauty few states can rival Tennessee.
The Volunteer State is home to everything from majestic mountains to idyllic waterways and it boasts some of the most stunning scenery in the country.
If you’re looking for a breathtaking vacation destination Tennessee should be at the top of your list.
Here are 10 of the most stunning sights to see in Tennessee:
1.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the southeastern United States.
And it’s easy to see why – the park is home to an incredible array of plant and animal life as well as some of the most stunning views in the region.
Whether you’re hiking to the top of Mount LeConte or exploring the lush forests and streams of the Cades Cove area you’re sure to be impressed by the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
2.
Chattanooga Choo Choo
Chattanooga is one of Tennessee’s most vibrant cities and the Chattanooga Choo Choo is one of its most popular attractions.
This historic train depot has been transformed into a hotel museum and entertainment complex and it’s a great place to spend a day or two explorings.
Even if you don’t stay at the hotel it’s worth taking a tour of the facility to see the restored locomotives and learn about the city’s rich railroad history.
3.
Lookout Mountain
Just a short drive from Chattanooga is Lookout Mountain one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tennessee.
The mountain is home to a number of attractions including Ruby Falls – a 145-foot waterfall that’s one of the tallest in the country – and the Incline Railway the steepest passenger railway in the world.
Even if you don’t have time to visit these attractions the scenic drive to the top of Lookout Mountain is well worth the effort.
4.
Tennessee State Capitol
Located in the heart of Nashville the Tennessee State Capitol is one of the most impressive buildings in the city.
The Greek Revival-style building was completed in 1859 and it’s been home to the Tennessee General Assembly ever since.
A tour of the Capitol is a great way to learn about the state’s history and see some of the beautiful artwork and architecture that make the building so special.
5.
Memphis Zoo
The Memphis Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and it’s easy to see why.
The zoo is home to more than 3500 animals including lions tigers and bears and it features a number of unique exhibits such as the Teton Trek which allows visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of animals.
The Memphis Zoo is also home to the popular Panda Exhibit which is one of the only places in the country where you can see these amazing creatures.
6.
Graceland
No trip to Tennessee would be complete without a visit to Graceland the former home of Elvis Presley.
The Graceland estate is now a museum and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state.
A tour of the mansion gives visitors a look at Elvis’s personal life and the museum features a number of exhibits on the singer’s career and influence.
Even if you’re not an Elvis fan Graceland is a must-see for anyone interested in music or American pop culture.
7.
Nashville Symphony
The Nashville Symphony is one of the most popular cultural attractions in the city and it’s easy to see why.
The symphony is one of the most acclaimed orchestras in the country and it regularly performs at the world-renowned Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
A concert by the Nashville Symphony is a great way to experience the city’s vibrant music scene and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
8.
Tennessee Aquarium
The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state and it’s easy to see why.
The aquarium is home to more than 12000 animals including sharks penguins and crocodiles and it features a number of unique exhibits such as the Amazon River Exhibit which allows visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of animals.
The Tennessee Aquarium is also home to the popular River otters Exhibit which is one of the only places in the country where you can see these amazing creatures.
9.
Dollywood
Dollywood is a theme park in the Smoky Mountains that’s perfect for the whole family.
In addition to rides and shows the park also offers a variety of dining and shopping options.
Don’t miss the chance to ride the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster Lightning Rod.
10.
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a city located in the Great Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee-North Carolina border.
Gatlinburg is a popular tourist destination and is home to a number of historical landmarks and attractions such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort.