The awe and wonder of a child is a priceless experience. It's one of the most innocent ways to see the world and can make an appearance anywhere from grocery store aisles to Niagara Falls. Adults, however, tend to be a bit more difficult to "wow." Here in Union City, Tennessee, the Discovery Park of America seeks to change that. This family-friendly museum is awe-inspiring for folks of all ages, and there's something new every season. Check it out below, and maybe plan or a day trip. The Discovery Park of America is bound to be a place to remember!
The Discovery Park of America is a 100,000 square foot museum that's located in the heart of Tennessee's eastern town of Union City. With ten exhibit galleries that focus on everything from space technology to natural history to the military, there's truly something for everyone.
One of the most surprising aspects of the museum is its beautiful exterior grounds. Used as both an event space and popular spot for summer camps and church trips, both children and adults will have a full indoor and outdoor experience at the Discovery Park.
The military exhibit gallery is known as one of the best in the United States, and the expansive, airy hall gives you the space to wander and learn at your leisure. With all sorts of vintage military equipment and automobiles, even the tiniest guest will find themselves entertained by the past.
There are also dozens of interactive displays throughout the museum. Whether you're looking to learn about science, engineering, math, and more, it seems like there's always something new being explored at the Discovery Park.
The dinosaur hall is a fantastic addition, popular for private events and folks looking to ooh and ah over the massive behemoths of the past. The 20,000-gallon aquarium is also a must-see. It explores the underwater ecosystems found in the nearby Reelfoot Lake — the only natural lake in the state.
The Cardboard Boat Regatta is one of the most popular events held at the park. It's held every spring and invites clubs and classes to build their own boat with cardboard and duct tape. The $25 to $35 entry fee gets attendees access to the park with four passes, and the chance to duke it out on a race across the Discovery Park of America Lake. It's a fun experience that helps kids get their hands dirty and learn about building, designing, and manning their boats in the water.
Visit for yourself from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in January, February, and August. Keep in mind that during these quieter months the park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. From March to July you can visit seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
It's the most wonderful time of the year when our whole state gets blanketed with... sparkling lights. Christmas light displays in Tennessee are among some of the best in the country, and I am thankful to have so many wonderful options when it comes to the holiday season. In fact, Christmas events and beautiful lights have become one of my favorite Tennessee Christmas traditions. So if you find yourself searching for “Christmas lights near me,” well, I have good news for you. There is an abundance of them all across the state and I will even pinpoint them for you on this convenient map. May your Christmas be merry and bright, especially with all these twinkling lights.
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1. Let It Glow - Union City
Discovery Park of America gets a total overhaul come Christmas, and the outcome is phenomenal. This annual event brings guests the best Christmas lights in Union City, Tennessee. You can experience over a million glittering lights in two different ways. The drive-thru section has cars following a linear path getting up close to the Discovery Center, the Titan missile, and the settlement which is filled with restored log cabins. Witness an array of dancing lights and a glowing display of holiday cheer. Next, the walk-thru portion allows guests to meander through the Japanese and European gardens awash with lights. This gives guests a laid-back approach and allows time to soak it all in at your own pace. I personally recommend doing both to get the full experience.
2. Zoo Lights - Memphis
The annual Zoo Lights is one of the most anticipated events when it comes to Christmas lights in Memphis, Tennessee. The Memphis Zoo completely transforms during Christmas in a stunning display of holiday joy. I love visiting zoos and seeing the happy animals playing, but stick around after dark and you will be treated to an enchanting night filled with light tunnels, massive Christmas trees, and holiday displays. Throughout the season they have fun events for kids and adults alike, so make sure you check in with the Memphis Zoo website for the perfect day to visit.
3. Holiday Wonders At The Garden - Memphis
If you still want to find some good Christmas lights in Memphis, Tennessee, look no further than the Memphis Botanical Garden. Just in time for the Christmas season, the whole garden is illuminated with thousands of lights. Explore the outdoor space filled with Christmas trees, lights, and enchanted walks. Botanical gardens are some of my favorite places to visit and to see a place like this morph into a Christmas wonderland is truly magical. There are select days where you can bring your dogs, wear Christmas jammies, and more, so make sure you check the Memphis Botanical Garden website for the most up-to-date information.
4. Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center - Nashville
When it comes to Christmas lights in Nashville, Tennessee, the gorgeous display at the Gaylord Opryland Resort is one of the best. This famous Christmas attraction spares no expense when it comes to holiday celebrations, with elaborate decorations in their indoor jungle-like waterpark. Walk among the decor and experience total awe over the beauty of thousands of twinkling lights. They also host a popular ice sculpture attraction entitled Ice! featuring giant and colorful ice sculptures depicting various Christmas movie classics with a rotating theme each year. There is so much Christmas cheer to be had, you should stay the night in the Gaylord Opryland Resort and make the most of this holly jolly event.
5. Holiday LIGHTS - Nashville
For more Christmas lights in Nashville, Tennessee, the Holiday LIGHTS event at Cheekwood is simply a must. A one-mile walking path featuring over a million lights illuminates this garden; Cheekwood is already a gorgeous property, but during the holidays? It's pure magic! Take a stroll through the enchanted displays with new wonders hidden around every corner. The mansion on the property is also open for the holidays and decorated with stunning decor, making it well worth the visit to both the garden and the mansion.
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6. Asian Lantern Festival - Chattanooga
If you are looking for something different, check out the Christmas lights in Chattanooga. At the Chattanooga Zoo there is an annual Asian Lantern Festival. These lanterns are moving and interactive pieces of art shaped after various animals and natural elements, and 30 of these illuminated masterpieces are hidden throughout the zoo for guests to find.
7. Winterfest - Pigeon Forge
Looking for Christmas lights in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee? Then you can look just about anywhere in town because the entire community joins together for Winterfest! Winterfest is when all of the restaurants, attractions, and stores participate in immaculate decorations for the holidays and for winter. Special Christmas-themed dinner shows are available for the holiday season, special food and drinks are offered at numerous restaurants, and there are tons of events that make the most of the season. Places like The Island offer fantastic photo ops, but there are many public spaces within town that are just filled with Christmas lights and decorations. For a full list of events, please visit the Winterfest website. Winterfest is so widespread throughout town that it makes Pigeon Forge the kind of place you can visit multiple times and still find yourself surprised by the offerings!
The Christmas lights in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, are absolutely spectacular. Just like Pigeon Forge, the whole town gathers around for the holidays to celebrate with big displays and fun events. There is, however, one place I am very fond of, the Gatlinburg Skypark. This massive suspension bridge sways between two mountains and offers one of the highest views in Gatlinburg. I have always loved going to the Skypark and walking the bridge, but around Christmastime, the bridge gets decorated in a light tunnel. To walk the bridge at night is a wholly different experience -- seeing the lights of the town far below you and being surrounded by the magic of Christmas is incredibly moving and memorable. Lights Over Gatlinburg isn’t limited to the bridge either; there are holiday displays everywhere you look, including a 32-foot Christmas tree. If you find yourself in the Smokies this Christmas, I recommend getting a ticket and taking the SkyLift up to this wonderful display of holiday joy.
9. Candy Land Christmas - Johnson City
For the best Christmas lights in Johnson City, Tennessee, you will need to head downtown. "Candy Land Christmas" takes over two urban parks in the city and fills them with illuminated Christmas trees brought in by local businesses and organizations. Each group goes above and beyond to compete for the most elaborately decorated tree. This is a fun way the community gathers together and not only shows off their unique artistic style, but celebrates the holidays all together. If you want to see this beautiful display, check out our Adventuring in the Moment video below:
10. Pinnacle Speedway in Lights - Bristol
The Pinnacle Speedway in Lights is one of the best drive through Christmas lights displays in Tennessee. In fact, I dare say they are *the* best Christmas lights in Bristol, Tennessee (and that includes the Virginia side)! The Pinnacle Speedway in Lights takes guests on a twisting and windy path through the parking lot of the Bristol Motor Speedway, including under the stands and even on the racetrack itself! Being on the “Fastest half-mile in the world” is a thrilling experience, even at a meandering 5 mph. Along the way, you will pass many moving Christmas displays including themed sections like Ripley’s Sea of Illumination, Dino Land, and, of course, the 12 Days of Christmas. Check out our trip on this illuminated Christmas drive-thru in this Adventuring in the Moment video:
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11. Smoky Mountain Christmas - Pigeon Forge
When it comes to Christmas lights in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, you will want to save some time for Dollywood. I am not picking favorites because I love our Christmas displays all across our state; however, if I had to choose, this would be it. The park is just stunningly beautiful with decorations literally everywhere you look. Beautifully decorated trees, hanging garlands, over six million lights, interactive displays, and more can be found in this magical park. I am not alone in thinking this place is gorgeous, either, because Dollywood has won the "prettiest park in the world" award several times now. I was simply left in awe at the Smoky Mountain Christmas and would recommend it to anyone who finds themself within 200 miles of this theme park. Check out our Adventuring in the Moment video to see the park through our eyes:
12. Christmas at Graceland - Memphis
Did you know Christmas was one of Elvis’s favorite times of the year? So if you go looking for Christmas lights in Memphis, Tennessee, the King’s house is a fitting place to visit. This stunning manse is a beautiful backdrop to one of the best house tours in the country. Not only will you get a chance to walk in the footsteps of the King, but you will also be surrounded by gorgeous holiday decor. Christmas at Graceland fills the calendar with special events like Christmas concerts and the holiday lighting ceremony. So make sure you take a trip to Graceland this season a wonderful and unique holiday tradition!
There you have it: 12 of the best Christmas lights displays in Tennessee. Next time you are looking for Christmas lights near me, you won't have to look far. Let us know which displays are your favorite!
It’s never too early to start your Christmas shopping, of course, and we're here to help. Make sure to check out our gift guide for the traveler in your life.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
