Tennessee Sounds Perfect

Wednesday, Apr 03, 2024 0

The call of the open road. You can’t feel it in a brochure. Or experience it in a travel blog. It can only be found when you let the road guide you home. Roll down the windows, let the breeze tousle your hair, and crank up the radio to the rhythm of Tennessee.

West Tennessee

Southern and soulful, West Tennessee blends a raw, urban can-do spirit with rural charm, offering a unique tapestry of remarkable encounters, celebrated artists and vibrant culture. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling city or prefer the tranquil charm of small-town life, West Tennessee invites you to embrace its rich musical heritage, iconic landmarks, delectable culinary customs and an abundance of outdoor adventures.

Start your journey in Memphis, where the soulful rhythms of Beale Street echo through the streets, inviting you to revel in the vibrant music scene that has enchanted generations. Next stop, Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis Presley, where you can immerse yourself in the life and legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Learn how Memphis played a role in changing the world at the National Civil Rights Museum. Sink your teeth into mouthwatering barbecue at legendary restaurants like Central BBQ and Charles Vergos’ Rendezvous. Or have a bunch to remember at Memphis’ oldest restaurant, The Arcade, where the sweet potato pancakes or deep-fried French toast are a must-try.

As you venture further, make a detour to the Discovery Park of America in Union City, a sprawling complex housing exhibits that celebrate everything from science and history to agriculture and art. Nature enthusiasts will find solace at Reelfoot Lake, a tranquil haven teeming with wildlife and surrounded by serene beauty. Finally, pay homage to the pioneers of rockabilly music at the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame and Museum in Jackson, where the spirit of the genre comes alive through exhibits and memorabilia.

Middle Tennessee

On to Middle Tennessee, rich in heritage, culture and scenic beauty. Here, you’ll encounter authentic Southern hospitality and dive into an unmatched creative musical journey. Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, and the Upper Cumberland region are adorned with rolling hills and fertile valleys. Meanwhile, Middle Tennessee boasts the western expanse of the Cumberland Plateau, the scenic Nashville Basin, and the striking landscape of the Highland Rim.

Nashville pulses with a perpetual creative energy which resonates in its family-oriented entertainment, spirited football fandom, and captivating historical sites, ensuring unforgettable experiences for all who visit. Check out a show at the Ryman Auditorium, make your own candy bar at the downtown Goo Goo Shop & Dessert Bar or have a bite to eat at Prince’s Hot Chicken.

Back on the open road, hop on the Natchez Trace Parkway to visit charming small towns along the way, including Leiper’s Fork, Spring Hill and Hohenwald. Continue your adventure back up through Columbia, the historic home of President James K. Polk and incredible Southern delights at Square Market & Cafe, before stopping in Bell Buckle, a delightful small town renowned for its annual RC Cola and MoonPie Festival.

On east to Cookeville, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, fishing, and waterfalls in the nearby Upper Cumberland region. In Crossville, known as the “Golf Capital of Tennessee,” you can tee off at one of the area’s championship courses or explore the scenic beauty of Cumberland Mountain State Park.

East Tennessee

Take any path in East Tennessee and you’ll end up someplace memorable. Visit vast Cherokee National Forest or Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hike the Appalachian Trail. Sing along in Bristol, Birthplace of Country Music. Take a whitewater challenge on the Ocoee River. The culture of Appalachia runs deep in this corner of Tennessee from melt-in-your-mouth comfort food to wild natural beauty.

Nestled alongside the Tennessee River, Chattanooga is a sparkling jewel. Here, you’ll discover the majestic Rock City – where you can see seven states, the iconic carousel of Coolidge Park, the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo, thrilling Olympic rapids and expansive greenways. The city boasts a stunning downtown area, renowned museums, and lively arts and shopping districts, offering a delightful blend of everything one could desire. All of this is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, making Chattanooga an irresistible destination for all tastes and preferences.

Embark on a journey of discovery and dive into the vibrant tapestry of Knoxville, a city where Southern hospitality intertwines with cosmopolitan allure. Whether you’re drawn to the rhythm of live music, captivated by art gallery exhibitions, or seeking breathtaking outdoor adventures, Knoxville promises an array of experiences to suit every taste. Delve into the city’s storied past, admire its architecture, and indulge in its eclectic culinary offerings, all while basking in the warmth of its welcoming atmosphere.

Within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’re in the presence of something fresh and, yet, ancient. Here lies one of the oldest mountain ranges on Earth, a sanctuary adorned with vibrant wildflowers, ancient forests, and cascading mountain streams. Surrounding the park, the cities of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville beckon with their rollercoaster hills at Dollywood and boundless adventures. Stay at the new Heartsong Lodge & Resort at Dollywood, a National Geographic “Best of the World” hotel and an enchanting retreat immersed in rustic charm. Whether you’re young or young at heart, excitement awaits around every bend in the picturesque landscape of the Smokies.

Northeast Tennessee’s Tri-Cities of Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City and quaint small towns along the way make up a diverse region of outdoor recreation, music, history and everything in between. Dive into Bristol’s lively atmosphere, where enthusiasts can revel in thrilling outdoor adventures and racing events at the iconic Bristol Motor Speedwayv, while also exploring the roots of country music at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. Kingsport stands as a beacon of history and innovation, earning the distinction of America’s inaugural “Model City” and boasting a wealth of historical treasures. Nestled amidst stunning mountains and winding rivers, Johnson City offers a blend of captivating history, vibrant arts, soul-stirring Americana music, and wholesome family entertainment, making it a destination of enduring charm and allure.