Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in Tennessee (Currently Open)
Tennessee is a land of soul-stirring music, rolling mountains, and world-class hospitality. Whether you crave a luxury retreat in the Smokies, a music-themed stay in Nashville, or a cozy riverside escape in Chattanooga, the Volunteer State offers unforgettable places to unwind. Each destination combines Southern charm with modern comfort, creating experiences that linger long after checkout.
If you’re ready to plan your next adventure, here are the top 15 iconic hotels and getaways in Tennessee — all currently open and waiting to welcome you with open arms, a warm smile, and a touch of Southern grace.
The Peabody Memphis – The South’s Grand Dame of Hospitality
Few hotels in America are as famous — or as delightfully quirky — as The Peabody Memphis. Known for its marching ducks, this historic landmark has been hosting guests since 1869 and remains a symbol of Southern elegance.
Located in the heart of downtown Memphis, The Peabody features luxurious rooms, rooftop views of the Mississippi River, and a lobby that feels like stepping back into the golden age of travel.
Signature Experiences:
Watch the Peabody Duck March in the grand lobby twice daily
Sip cocktails at the historic Peabody Rooftop Bar
Enjoy fine dining at Chez Philippe, the hotel’s elegant French restaurant
This iconic hotel blends nostalgia with modern comfort, offering a stay that’s both regal and refreshingly fun.
The Hermitage Hotel – Nashville’s Crown Jewel of Luxury
Standing proudly near the Tennessee State Capitol, The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville has been a symbol of sophistication since 1910. Its Beaux-Arts architecture, marble columns, and opulent details set the tone for an experience that’s both classic and contemporary.
Guests are treated to plush accommodations, world-class service, and locally inspired cuisine at Drusie & Darr, a restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
Why Stay Here:
Historic landmark with over a century of stories
Central location near Broadway and the Country Music Hall of Fame
Pet-friendly luxury with personalized amenities
The Hermitage Hotel represents the very best of Nashville — refined, cultured, and undeniably Southern.
Blackberry Farm – An Exquisite Escape in the Smoky Mountains (Walland)
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Farm is often considered one of the most luxurious resorts in the country. This 4,200-acre estate combines rustic charm with world-class elegance, offering fine dining, outdoor adventures, and serene mountain views.
Guests can explore farm-to-table cuisine at The Barn, indulge in spa treatments, or take part in wine tastings and fly-fishing excursions.
Highlights:
Relais & Châteaux property known for culinary excellence
Gourmet dining with locally sourced ingredients
Activities include hiking, horseback riding, and clay shooting
Blackberry Farm is more than a getaway — it’s an experience that nourishes the soul.
The Read House – Where History Meets Glamour (Chattanooga)
Step into the roaring 1920s at The Read House, a meticulously restored historic hotel in downtown Chattanooga. With chandeliers, Art Deco details, and a dash of mystery (yes, Room 311 is said to be haunted), this hotel offers guests a taste of Old Hollywood glamor.
Beyond its charm, The Read House delivers modern amenities, an indoor pool, and the beloved Bridgeman’s Chophouse, serving prime steaks and seafood.
Why Guests Love It:
Rich history dating back to 1872
Elegant décor and exceptional dining
Centrally located near the Tennessee Aquarium and riverfront
For travelers who love a mix of history and sophistication, The Read House is pure enchantment.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa – Family Fun in Pigeon Forge
When Dolly Parton puts her name on something, you know it’s special. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa perfectly captures her warm, family-friendly spirit.
Located next to the famous Dollywood Theme Park, this resort offers a perfect blend of comfort, hospitality, and entertainment. With its mountain-inspired design, full-service spa, and on-site dining, it’s ideal for families looking for both relaxation and fun.
What to Expect:
Exclusive perks for Dollywood guests, including early park entry
Family suites and kid-friendly amenities
Outdoor pool, campfire pits, and Southern-style dining
DreamMore Resort is where joyful memories are made — and everyone leaves humming a happy tune.
The Oliver Hotel – Knoxville’s Hidden Gem of Style and Charm
Located on Market Square in downtown Knoxville, The Oliver Hotel combines history, creativity, and Southern hospitality in one stylish package. Originally built in 1876 as a bakery, this boutique hotel now exudes charm with its custom furnishings and local art.
Guests can unwind at The Peter Kern Library, a hidden speakeasy tucked behind the lobby, or enjoy a meal at Tupelo Honey, located right downstairs.
Best Features:
Elegant boutique ambiance with personalized service
Walking distance to shops, restaurants, and nightlife
Locally sourced food and cocktail experiences
The Oliver Hotel embodies the artistic energy of Knoxville while maintaining a cozy, intimate feel.
The Sewanee Inn – Refined Mountain Hospitality (Sewanee)
Perched on the Cumberland Plateau, The Sewanee Inn offers a serene retreat surrounded by forest and hiking trails. Located on the University of the South campus, it’s a favorite for travelers seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.
This elegant inn features comfortable rooms, golf course views, and classic Southern breakfast spreads. Whether you’re a parent visiting a student or a couple seeking a quiet mountain escape, The Sewanee Inn delivers with style.
Highlights:
Overlooks the university’s golf course and hiking trails
Peaceful, refined setting perfect for relaxation
Charming, collegiate atmosphere with modern comfort
It’s the kind of place where fresh mountain air meets timeless Southern grace.
Big Cypress Lodge – A Wilderness Wonder in Memphis’ Pyramid
Inside the striking glass Bass Pro Shops Pyramid in Memphis lies Big Cypress Lodge, a one-of-a-kind wilderness-themed hotel. Designed to resemble a luxury cabin resort, it features towering cypress trees, indoor balconies, and even a 28-story observation deck overlooking the Mississippi River.
Why It’s Unforgettable:
Rustic yet luxurious lodge design
Indoor swamp with alligator habitats and aquariums
On-site dining, spa, and archery range
For families or couples craving adventure without leaving the city, Big Cypress Lodge delivers an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
The Chattanoogan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton – Modern Comfort Meets Scenic Beauty
Located in downtown Chattanooga, The Chattanoogan Hotel blends urban sophistication with mountain tranquility. The hotel features stylish rooms, a luxurious spa, and panoramic views of the surrounding ridges.
Guests can walk to the Tennessee Aquarium, explore nearby trails, or relax at Bridges Restaurant & Lounge for contemporary Southern cuisine.
Top Reasons to Stay:
Central location near the city’s major attractions
On-site spa, sauna, and rooftop terrace
Pet-friendly accommodations
The Chattanoogan offers a modern yet welcoming stay for travelers looking to experience the heart of Tennessee’s outdoor city.
River Inn of Harbor Town – Memphis’ Most Romantic Boutique Hotel
Perched along the Mississippi River in Memphis, the River Inn of Harbor Town is an intimate escape known for its European charm and impeccable service. With just 28 rooms, it offers an upscale, personalized experience in a tranquil neighborhood minutes from downtown.
Why Guests Adore It:
Riverside views and old-world décor
Fine dining at Paulette’s Restaurant and rooftop cocktails at Terrace at the River Inn
Complimentary breakfast and wine reception
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, River Inn is pure perfection — quiet, luxurious, and steeped in Southern warmth.
The Inn at Fontanel – Nashville’s Countryside Retreat
A short drive from downtown Nashville, The Inn at Fontanel offers a peaceful, luxurious escape surrounded by rolling hills. The property once belonged to Barbara Mandrell, and its blend of rustic elegance and modern flair makes it a favorite among Nashville visitors.
Key Features:
Spacious suites with wraparound porches
Access to nearby wineries, zip lines, and the Fontanel Mansion tour
Complimentary breakfast and laid-back charm
For those who want the Nashville experience without the downtown bustle, The Inn at Fontanel is an ideal choice.
The Park Vista – Gatlinburg’s Mountain Marvel
With its panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains, The Park Vista in Gatlinburg is a family-friendly favorite that combines convenience with breathtaking scenery.
Guests can enjoy rooms with private balconies, an indoor pool with a waterslide, and easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and downtown Gatlinburg attractions.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
Sweeping mountain and city views
On-site restaurant and lounge with outdoor seating
Excellent value for families and groups
The Park Vista captures the magic of mountain living while offering all the modern amenities of a top-tier resort.
The Lodge at Buckberry Creek – A Smoky Mountain Hideaway (Gatlinburg)
For travelers craving privacy and natural beauty, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek offers a serene escape nestled among the trees. This luxury lodge emphasizes rustic elegance, with handcrafted furniture, fireplaces, and balconies overlooking the mountains.
Top Experiences:
Peaceful, romantic atmosphere with outdoor adventure access
Gourmet dining and scenic terraces
Minutes from Gatlinburg and national park trails
It’s a true Smoky Mountain sanctuary for couples and nature lovers alike.
General Morgan Inn – Historic Elegance in Greeneville
Located in Greeneville, one of Tennessee’s oldest towns, the General Morgan Inn combines 19th-century charm with modern comfort. Originally built in 1884, the hotel honors Tennessee’s deep-rooted history while offering fine dining and warm hospitality.
Highlights:
Historic architecture with modern amenities
On-site Brumley’s Restaurant & Lounge
Ideal location for exploring East Tennessee’s historic trails
For travelers who appreciate history and Southern gentility, the General Morgan Inn feels like stepping into another time — without sacrificing today’s comforts.
The Tennessean Hotel – Knoxville’s Contemporary Luxury Landmark
Overlooking World’s Fair Park in downtown Knoxville, The Tennessean Hotel is the city’s premier luxury destination. Its sleek design, attentive service, and locally inspired touches make it perfect for business travelers, couples, and weekend explorers alike.
Why It Stands Out:
Modern suites with mountain or city views
Fine dining at The Drawing Room, featuring Tennessee-inspired dishes
Walkable to the Sunsphere, Market Square, and theater district
The Tennessean combines urban energy with quiet sophistication — the perfect finale to any Tennessee adventure.
Final Thoughts: Discover the Heart of Tennessee Hospitality
From the elegant grandeur of The Peabody Memphis to the rustic luxury of Blackberry Farm, Tennessee’s hotels tell a story of warmth, heritage, and unforgettable experiences. Each destination reflects a different side of the state — from the music-filled streets of Nashville to the misty peaks of the Smokies.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or a luxurious hideaway, these iconic hotels and getaways in Tennessee promise more than a place to rest — they offer a genuine taste of Tennessee’s legendary hospitality.