Taste Your Way Through Tennessee

Nothing compares to the freedom of the open road, the anticipation of the next stop, or the thrill of discovering a hidden gem along the way. In Tennessee, every mile brings the promise of scenic beauty, rich history and unparalleled flavors. With self-guided tours like the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Tennessee Wine Trail, combined with celebrated culinary stops across the state, travelers can craft their own journey through the heart of Tennessee’s food, drink and culture. For a safe and unforgettable adventure, consider a designated driver or staying overnight in each destination.
West Tennessee
West Tennessee greets travelers with soulful charm and iconic flavors. Start in Memphis, where Beale Street hums with blues and barbecue, inviting you to experience Memphis-style ribs at Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous or a taste of history at Central BBQ. Just a short drive away is Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis Presley, offering a step back in time to the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
A visit to Memphis wouldn’t be complete without a tour of the National Civil Rights Museum, a landmark of powerful history. Heading eastward, discover Old Dominick Distillery, a local distillery where craft meets heritage, offering an authentic taste of Tennessee whiskey and the story of a family legacy.
Just a bit further in Brownsville, experience the nostalgia of a classic soda fountain at Livingston’s Soda Fountain and Grill, and unwind with a tasting at White Squirrel Winery, where local grapes and Tennessee soil unite to produce unique flavors.
Middle Tennessee
Middle Tennessee brings together Southern hospitality and iconic experiences. Begin in Nashville, Tennessee’s capital, and immerse yourself in a city alive with music, food and history. From the birthplace of hot chicken at Prince’s Hot Chicken to the soul food-inspired flavors of James Beard Award-winning chef Maneet Chauhan’s restaurants, Nashville is a city that lives and breathes culinary innovation. Take in a show at the iconic Ryman Auditorium, explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, or create your own Goo Goo Cluster at the Goo Goo Shop for a taste of Nashville’s sweet history.
From Nashville, head south to Franklin, where small-town charm and modern culinary experiences blend seamlessly. Here, farm-to-table dining takes center stage at Southall Farm & Inn, where fresh ingredients and local craftsmanship elevate every dish. A short drive brings you to Arrington Vineyards, a serene vineyard nestled in the hills, offering tastings with panoramic views of Middle Tennessee’s rolling landscape.
For those with a love of scenic drives, the Natchez Trace Parkway offers miles of breathtaking views and historic stops through Middle Tennessee, with charming towns like Leiper’s Fork and Columbia adding to the experience. Continuing eastward, Cookeville and Crossville await with outdoor adventures, from hiking and waterfalls to world-class golfing at Cumberland Mountain State Park.
East Tennessee
East Tennessee’s landscape is both majestic and wild, with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at its heart. Explore one of the oldest mountain ranges on Earth, surrounded by ancient forests, cascading streams and endless views. Nearby, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer an exciting contrast with attractions like Dollywood, WildSide and scenic thrills around every turn.
In Chattanooga, nature meets urban allure. Here, you’ll find Rock City, a stunning vantage point where you can see seven states, and Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall that captivates visitors from around the world. After exploring, stop by Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery for a taste of Tennessee’s craft whiskey revival. Continue your culinary journey with a visit to Inman Social in nearby Cleveland, where hot slaw — a regional delicacy recently named Tennessee’s official state food — adds a unique twist to the local fare.
As you head further east, Knoxville offers a warm embrace of Southern hospitality and urban energy. Whether exploring the bustling downtown market or savoring farm-to-table dining at Plaid Apron, visitors find Knoxville a vibrant mix of art, culture and culinary treats.
Savor the Flavors and Raise a Glass
Across Tennessee, the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Tennessee Wine Trail connect travelers with the state’s most celebrated distilleries and vineyards. From Jack Daniel’s in Lynchburg to the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery in Gatlinburg, the whiskey trail weaves a story of craftsmanship, heritage, and flavor. Each stop, whether in the mountains or along the Mississippi, offers a unique glimpse into Tennessee’s rich history with spirits, accompanied by tastings that bring the region’s terroir to life.
The Tennessee Wine Trail invites visitors to discover the state’s emerging wine scene. In Middle Tennessee, Arrington Vineyards provides a perfect blend of wine and scenery, while in East Tennessee, Watauga Lake Winery captures the essence of the Smokies in every bottle. Each vineyard along the trail is a celebration of Tennessee’s diverse climates and fertile soil, adding layers of flavor and character to the wines.
More Than a Destination – A Journey of Discovery
Tennessee’s open roads offer more than just scenic views — they provide a canvas for adventure, an invitation to explore every flavor, and a chance to savor each moment. Whether it’s the smoky, slow-cooked barbecue of Memphis, the fiery spice of Nashville’s hot chicken, or the crisp bite of a local wine, Tennessee’s culinary traditions are as rich as its landscapes.
So, roll down the windows, let the rhythm of the road take you, and create your own path through Tennessee. From the Mississippi River to the Great Smoky Mountains, bustling cities to charming small towns, Tennessee is a state meant to be experienced with all the senses. The open road awaits, offering not just a destination, but an experience that will linger long after the journey ends.
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