I might be biased, but I think Tennessee has to be the greatest state in our country. Sure I have enjoyed exploring other places in the US of A, but not quite as much as the Volunteer State. From our mountains to our people, there is so much to love about Tennessee. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but in the effort to start somewhere, I'm sharing six of the best places in Tennessee... and I challenge you to visit each and every one of these beautiful spots!
This has to be first on our list because not only is it a national park, but it happens to be my favorite national park ever. This is the most-visited park in our nation and only confirms what we have known all along: what we have is certainly special. There are endless things to do and places to explore within these majestic mountains. You can hike hundreds of miles of trails including portions of the epic Appalachian Trail. Some of our favorites are Alum Cave, Laurel Falls, and Grotto Falls. Of course, if you want to relax in the car there are plenty of beautiful drives like the New Found Gap Road, the Foothills Parkway, or my personal favorite Cades Cove. Dive into history by finding the historic cabins within Elkmont, along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, or again in Cades Cove. Chase some waterfalls, go fishing in the rivers, or raft your way through this gorgeous park: it's a veritable choose your own adventure!
We have lots of beautiful waterfalls throughout our state, but there is one particular underground waterfall that truly is the most wonderfully unique waterfall in the country. Ruby Falls is the biggest underground free-falling waterfall open to the public in the United States. Flowing water plunging 145 feet makes for one remarkable display. Dynamic lighting makes the water shimmer and shines as you tour this magnificent underworld.
Nashville is one of the most popular spots in our country for people to visit, and these days it seems like everyone in the country is moving to our state’s capital. It's no surprise: the city offers some of the best experiences found within our state. There are a few "jump cities" in our country, but unlike Los Angles or New York, this town isn't nearly as busy. The musical history alone brings in thousands of people from all over the world, and many of those visitors end up staying and launching their musical careers in Nashville. The city is also praised for the culinary arts and you can find a plethora of options from just about anything your pallet prefers. This is also home to the Parthenon, so you don’t even need to travel to Greece to get a Mediterranean adventure! It doesn't get more unique than that.
We could easily make a whole list of our great state parks -- but we didn't want to play favorites because each and every one of these parks is worthy of your attention. Our Tennessee State Parks offer a wide range of activities from cave exploration, water sports, hiking, and so much more. We have a total of 56 state parks, some of which rival the experiences you can have at one of the major national parks in our country:The views found on top of Roan Mountain are breathtaking; our tallest waterfall, Fall Creek Falls, is jaw-dropping; and the incredible hikes at Savage Gulf can not be topped. We love them all and the icing on the cake? All Tennessee State Parks are free to visit!
Our small towns have one consistent trait throughout the whole state that makes our charming small towns stand out from the rest of the country: Southern hospitality. It is a very real thing. You can instantly be integrated into the community and no one is a stranger for very long. People in Tennessee have continually been kind, welcoming, and loving to anyone who finds themselves in town for the day. There are so many great places like Leipers Fork, Wartrace, Bell Buckle, and Gatlinburg; each place offers something different, but they will all blanket you with pure and heartfelt Southern hospitality.
Whereas the top of our list revolves around the national park, the surrounding region also deserves a spot. The towns surrounding the Smokies vary greatly from places like the quiet and quaint Townsend to the bombastic attraction-heavy Pigeon Forge. Gatlinburg, meanwhile, offers a walkable mountain town that feels secluded from the rest of the world. Each town in the area has its own personality and vibe. Pigeon Forge is a one-of-a-kind town... where else can you go to see an upside-down building, a half-scale of the Titanic, King Kong clinging to the side of a skyscraper, and a castle all in one place?
This is by no means an exhaustive list but we want to hear from you. What do you think are the best places in Tennessee, that aren't like anywhere else in our country? Let us know in the comments below.
I have heard from so many locals that Johnson City, Tennessee strikes a chord with people as a city that is just the right size. Many over the years have told me that it is big enough to have everything you want but small enough to still maintain that small-town feel. I fully agree because I can go see a big-name artist at a state-of-the-art music hall and still run into people I know every time I go to the library. Some of the best restaurants I have ever been to are right downtown and big mountain hikes are only minutes away, but still, the people that make up the community make East Tennessee the up-and-coming city that it is today.
I remember the first time I visited Johnson City and had a picnic downtown, looking at the the coolest sign I have ever seen for a city. The buildings are huddled together creating a hub of activity that I would soon find out holds some of the best restaurants and shops around. In the background, Buffalo Mountain stands as just one of the many mountains that surround the city. I fell in love with this city, and the more I keep exploring, the more I find to love.
The people are always everyone’s favorite part of the city, but a close second is the mountains. Everywhere you look, you will see breathtaking views of lush mountains. The Cherokee National Forest, Roan Mountain, the nearby mountain ranges in Western North Carolina, and so many more are visible right from town or a very short drive. I am an avid hiker, so having so many trails within an hour's radius is a dream come true. The outdoor activities are second to none, from peaceful forested hikes to epic waterfall experiences.
The city parks also have alot to offer. Places like Willow Springs have sprawling green spaces with walking paths winding through the rolling hills and offering fantastic views. Others like Rotary Park have a large playground and a splash pad for the kids. Another park we love is Winged Deer Park which is situated right along Boone Lake.
Looking for a night out or a good place to eat? You are in the right place when you head into downtown Johnson City, it may be small but hidden within are some top-notch experiences that are perfect for any foodie. My all-time favorite is Southern Craft which has the best BBQ I have ever tasted anywhere. The sides are second to none. Looking for some sushi? The Label has you covered. Need a big juicy burger? Burg’r & Barrel is your place. For an upscale and unique dinner, try Juan Siao which is a Latin and Asian fusion restaurant. This is only the tip of the iceberg of the food choices just waiting for you downtown, not to mention all of the other wonderful restaurants further down the road.
The scenery brings about a peaceful serenity that drives the culture. Slowing down the pace of life, Johnson City is the perfect place to visit. Just know that if you see it once you most likely will move here.
Johnson City, Tennessee, is first and foremost about the wonderful people that make this community great. Second to that are the mountainous surroundings that offer so much variety and fun for outdoor enthusiasts. This spot walks the tightrope of a city that is just big enough but still holds onto small-town traditions. If you want to see this wonderful town for yourself, then check out this historic loft located in the heart of downtown and use it as your hub for East Tennessee fun.
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...
