Picturesque Tennessee Summer Vacation Destinations

Few states can match the natural beauty of Tennessee. But it isn’t just the Great Smoky Mountains and winding underground caverns that set Tennessee apart. The vibrant culture, delicious food, and numerous towns and cities make for top-notch vacation destinations.

Arguably the best time of year to explore Tennessee is the summer, when the hot sun provides ideal weather for getting out and seeing all the state has to offer. But with so much to see, it can be hard to narrow it down. We’ve got you covered! Below, we provide an overview of some of Tennessee’s top summer getaways.

If you love American history, Murfreesboro is an excellent place to explore. This city, situated southeast of Nashville, played a part in the Civil War. Visitors can explore the Stones River Battlefield, the Oaklands Mansion, and Cannosburgh Village to learn about Tennessee’s fascinating history. While the Civil War-era history is what Murfreesboro is known for, it also has delicious food options and top-notch town festivals.

Sevierville is a top spot to head if you are looking for a base to explore the Great Smoky Mountains. Sevierville is a mid-sized town just south of the mountains with easy access to some of the best nature in the state. The Forbidden Caverns are underground caves with unique rock formations just a short drive away. Sevierville also offers excellent shopping, with rustic boutique shops, galleries, and many tourist attractions for all ages.

Memphis is situated on the far west end of Tennessee along the Mississippi River. It is one of the biggest cities in the state and a major cultural hub. Memphis is best known for its musical legacy, which lives on today. There are few better places to enjoy live blues and soul performances, and Elvis Presley’s famed Graceland is a must-visit. Memphis is also known for its delicious food, with some of the best barbeque in the country. It has excellent museums and a thriving nightlife.

Knoxville is one of the bigger cities in Tennessee and is situated on the eastern end of the state. It is a short drive to the Smoky Mountains, but there is plenty to do within the city if you’re seeking an urban vacation. Knoxville has delicious southern food, great cultural attractions like the Museum of East Tennessee History, and top-notch shopping in Market Square. With a location along the Tennessee River, Knoxville is a vibrant and picturesque city.

Maryville is a small suburb south of Knoxville known for its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains. Maryville has abundant natural appeal, including Bicentennial Greenbelt Park, which is a scenic downtown park with a winding creek. There are also top-notch vineyards nearby offering wine tasting, easy day trips to the surrounding mountains, and a historic schoolhouse that is one of the oldest in Tennessee.

Pigeon Forge is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. It is a one-of-a-kind mountain town, just outside Smoky Mountain National Park, but is best known as the home of Dollywood. This theme park was created by the legendary Tennessee superstar Dolly Parton and houses rides, water parks, and a museum filled with memorabilia. The town is very touristy, with attractions on every corner, but its incredible setting is what keeps so many coming back.

Clarksville is a large city in northern Tennessee near the Kentucky border. Clarksville has been consistently listed among the top places to live in the U.S., but it is just as fun to visit. There are top-notch museums, like the Customs House Museum, gorgeous natural attractions like Dunbar Cave State Park, and relaxing outdoor sites to explore, such as McGregor Park Riverwalk along the Cumberland River. It is a busy and exciting place to visit, with summer being the ideal time to enjoy its outdoor appeal.