The Best Experiences in Tennessee: Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Currently Open)
Tennessee is where the rhythm of music meets the majesty of mountains, where barbecue smoke mingles with the sound of guitars, and where adventure, history, and hospitality come together like nowhere else in America. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Memphis, hiking the trails of the Smokies, or dancing the night away in Nashville, the Volunteer State promises unforgettable moments at every turn.
If you’re planning your next getaway, here are the top 10 must-do experiences in Tennessee that are currently open and welcoming visitors. Each one offers its own slice of Tennessee’s soul — from world-famous attractions to hidden gems worth every mile of the drive.
Discover the Magic of Music City – Explore Nashville’s Legendary Scene
No trip to Tennessee is complete without a deep dive into Nashville, affectionately known as Music City USA. It’s the beating heart of country music and one of the most vibrant cultural destinations in the South.
Start your journey at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where rare memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and recording booths bring the city’s musical heritage to life. Then head to Broadway, where live bands spill sound into the streets from every honky-tonk. Don’t miss legendary venues like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and The Bluebird Café, both still open and hosting some of the best songwriters in the world.
Top Experiences in Nashville:
Take a backstage tour at the Grand Ole Opry, still hosting live shows weekly
Visit the Johnny Cash Museum to explore the legacy of the Man in Black
Enjoy fine dining and skyline views from the JW Marriott rooftop bar
Nashville’s magic lies in its blend of heritage and innovation — a city where you can hear tomorrow’s hits in a bar built decades ago.
Step Back in Time at Graceland – Elvis Presley’s Iconic Home (Memphis)
In Memphis, the spirit of Elvis Presley lives on at Graceland, one of the most visited homes in the United States. Open year-round, this historic estate welcomes fans from around the world to explore the life and legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Walk through the mansion’s glittering rooms, see Elvis’s car collection, and visit the Meditation Garden, where Elvis rests alongside his family. The on-site museum, Elvis Presley’s Memphis, features his stage costumes, gold records, and personal treasures.
Why It’s a Must-Do:
One of America’s most famous music landmarks
Immersive exhibits on Elvis’s rise to stardom
Family-friendly and fully accessible for visitors
Graceland isn’t just a museum — it’s a pilgrimage for music lovers, a place where history still hums in every note.
Wander Through Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Nature’s Masterpiece
Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a wonderland of misty peaks, cascading waterfalls, and ancient forests. It’s the most visited national park in the United States — and it’s easy to see why.
Hike to Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point, for panoramic views that stretch for miles. Explore the serene trails of Cades Cove, a lush valley dotted with historic cabins and abundant wildlife. And if you visit in autumn, prepare for one of the most spectacular fall color displays in the country.
Top Outdoor Experiences:
Scenic drive through Newfound Gap Road
Waterfall hikes to Laurel Falls or Rainbow Falls
Wildflower viewing in springtime and synchronous fireflies in summer
The Smokies offer a soul-soothing escape into nature — a place where every trail feels like a new adventure.
Experience the Electric Energy of Beale Street – Memphis’ Music Mecca
If Nashville is the heart of country music, Beale Street in Memphis is the soul of the blues. This historic stretch is alive with rhythm, color, and flavor. Neon lights glow above the street while live bands fill the night air from iconic clubs like B.B. King’s Blues Club and Rum Boogie Café.
During the day, explore the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum or enjoy classic Southern eats at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, located nearby. As night falls, Beale transforms into a celebration of sound — a living tribute to the city’s musical roots.
Can’t-Miss Highlights:
Live music every night from local and touring artists
Delicious Southern comfort food and cocktails
Family-friendly during the day and electric at night
Beale Street captures the heartbeat of Memphis — a fusion of blues, barbecue, and boundless energy.
Taste True Tennessee Whiskey at Jack Daniel’s Distillery (Lynchburg)
For those who appreciate craftsmanship and history, a visit to Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg is an experience unlike any other. Established in 1866, it’s the oldest registered distillery in the United States, and it continues to produce the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey using limestone spring water and charcoal mellowing.
Visitors can tour the working distillery, see the original cave spring, and even sample select spirits in guided tastings.
Experience Highlights:
Guided tours explaining the whiskey-making process
The Angel’s Share Tasting Tour for premium samples
Souvenir shopping at Miss Mary Bobo’s Restaurant & Gift Shop nearby
This small-town destination combines Southern charm with liquid gold — a must-visit for anyone interested in Tennessee’s rich heritage of craftsmanship.
Ride the Rails and Relive History at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (Chattanooga)
In Chattanooga, step back in time aboard an authentic vintage train at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. This living museum lets you experience what travel was like in the golden age of rail.
Hop on the Missionary Ridge Local for a short but scenic trip through historic tunnels and countryside, complete with commentary from knowledgeable conductors. For a longer adventure, try one of the seasonal excursions — like the Summerville Steam Special or the Dinner on the Diner experience.
Why You’ll Love It:
Fully operational historic trains and restored depots
Great for families and history lovers alike
Interactive exhibits and year-round events
Chattanooga’s rail legacy still runs strong, and this attraction keeps its whistles blowing in style.
Feel the Thrill at Dollywood – Pigeon Forge’s Premier Theme Park
When it comes to family fun, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge is Tennessee’s shining star. Created by country legend Dolly Parton, this world-class theme park blends Appalachian heritage, thrilling rides, and heartfelt entertainment.
From the adrenaline rush of the Lightning Rod roller coaster to the sweetness of a warm cinnamon bread from the Grist Mill, Dollywood offers joy for all ages. Seasonal events like the Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival and Flower & Food Festival make each visit special.
Must-Do Experiences:
Explore Craftsman’s Valley for live artisan demos
Watch live performances celebrating Dolly’s music and mountain culture
Cool off at Dollywood’s Splash Country in the summer
Dollywood is more than a theme park — it’s a celebration of Tennessee’s creativity, heart, and hospitality.
Cruise the Tennessee River on the Southern Belle (Chattanooga)
For a slower pace and stunning scenery, climb aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat in Chattanooga. This charming paddlewheel boat offers sightseeing and dinner cruises along the Tennessee River, giving visitors a fresh view of the city’s skyline and the surrounding mountains.
Top Cruise Options:
Sightseeing Cruise with live narration about Chattanooga’s history
Sunset Dinner Cruise featuring live music and Southern cuisine
Holiday and specialty cruises available throughout the year
With its romantic ambiance and laid-back atmosphere, the Southern Belle captures the spirit of Southern leisure perfectly.
Explore Ruby Falls – A Hidden Underground Waterfall (Chattanooga)
Few natural wonders in America compare to Ruby Falls, a breathtaking underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga. Discovered in 1928, this 145-foot cascade is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical subterranean spectacle.
Visitors descend via elevator and walk through stunning rock formations before reaching the waterfall chamber — an unforgettable sight that feels almost otherworldly.
What to Know Before You Go:
Guided tours available daily
The Lantern Tour offers a more intimate, low-light experience
Pair your visit with a trip to Rock City Gardens or the Incline Railway
Ruby Falls is proof that Tennessee’s beauty isn’t just above ground — it’s hidden deep within its mountains too.
Attend a Live Show at the Ryman Auditorium – The Mother Church of Country Music (Nashville)
Before the Grand Ole Opry moved to its modern venue, it called Ryman Auditorium home — and this historic hall still stands as one of the most revered stages in the world. Built in 1892, the Ryman has hosted everyone from Johnny Cash to contemporary country stars.
Today, visitors can take guided or self-guided tours of the building, explore backstage exhibits, or attend a live performance in its acoustically perfect hall.
Highlights:
Daily tours and photo opportunities on stage
Live concerts featuring diverse genres
Historic architecture with unmatched ambiance
Standing in the Ryman’s wooden pews, you can almost feel the echoes of legends who played before — a truly iconic Tennessee moment.
Final Thoughts: Tennessee’s Spirit Lives in Every Experience
From the echoing halls of the Ryman to the tranquil peaks of the Smokies, every corner of Tennessee offers a chance to connect with something real and remarkable. The state’s blend of music, nature, and culture creates an atmosphere that feels both timeless and alive.
Whether you’re sipping whiskey in Lynchburg, riding a vintage train in Chattanooga, or chasing waterfalls near Gatlinburg, these top 10 must-do activities in Tennessee will give you a taste of the state’s magic.