As a child, did you ever dream about exploring the great unknown under the ground? Did you think about crawling through caves and caverns, about experiencing stalagmites and stalactites, playing beneath the surface of the world as you know it? Here in Tennessee, we have an answer to those little girl and boy dreams, and they're just as satisfying for adults - we promise.
You may know Tennessee as Ol' Rocky Top, but have you actually explored the innards of our great state? Tennessee's famed Cumberland Caverns offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its Caveman Campouts, an overnight experience that combines caving and camping in one electric evening.
It's the only way to truly appreciate the beauty of the underground caverns without interruption. Plus, it means you won't be fighting those pesky mosquitos or Mother Nature's rainy summer tendencies. Camping in the cave is offered year 'round, which makes for quite the experience with you and your friends.
You can choose from multiple experiences including the All Around the Mountain option, where you can take the scenic walking tour throughout the entirety of the caverns. You'll camp out in the 10-acre Room, which means that you'll have a historic experience in the heart of the state.
Breakfast is served in the morning no matter which experience you choose. The Parts Unknown Overnight is an extreme caving adventure that's meant for only two people, which involves ladders, ropes and older explorers. You have to be over sixteen, but this intense caving tour takes you all the way to the infamous Monument Pillar.
Overnight camping adventures definitely deserve a spot on your bucket list, but make sure that you book at least ten days in advance. This isn't a last minute decision, because the kind folks at Cumberland Caverns need to fully prepare for your fun experience.
Tennessee is rife with both expansive history and incredible, locally-owned attractions and eateries. Tennessee Vacation has done a great job pulling together points of interest from around the state, but it just might be the introduction of the "Top Secret Trail" in east Tennessee that changes the game. We have our own neat trails (wine and cider trail, anyone?), but Tennessee's Top Secret Trail is a must-try. We've highlighted a few points of interest along the way below, but you can learn more by way of the link at the bottom of the article. Happy adventuring, folks! There's a lot to explore.
The Museum of Appalachia highlights the experience of an Appalachian pioneer on the 65-acre property. It's considered one of the most authentic in the world, a true replica of Appalachian life remade in Tennessee. It is always good to enter a museum to learn about something new but it is wholly different to visit a living history museum. With old buildings, cabins, animals, and so much more this truly is an experience to walk back in time to see how early mountain people lived.
2. Sergeant Alvin C. York State Historic Park, Pall Mall
Sergeant Alvin C. York State Historic Park can be found in Pall Mall, Tennessee, and it's a hidden gem of a state park that pays tribute to one of the most decorated soldiers to serve in World War I. You'll find a visitor center, York's home, a gristmill, and even the old York Bible School to explore on the property. It's a true history lesson in itself! At Sergeant Alvin C. York State Historic Park you will get the chance to walk the Alvin C. York Trail which will take you into a mock trench that was similar to what they used in warfare during WWI. Walk back through time to truly experience what it was like in the First World War.
The Historic Tennessee Theater is known as a "movie palace" in the heart of downtown Knoxville. The gorgeous structure was built in 1928 and is known as the city's first skyscraper. If you have the chance to catch a show, it's truly an incredible experience! For more information or to see the lineup of upcoming shows please visit the Historic Tennessee Theater website.
Norris Lake can be found just 20 miles north of Knoxville, and it's a great place if you're looking to go fishing, skiing, or boating in the heart of the Volunteer State The water is clear and clean, and with more than 20 marinas there's a place for everyone to spend some time.
Indian Mountain State Park can be found in Campbell County and is made up of 213 acres at the base of Indian Mountain. It's a popular spot for camping and hiking and is right on the edge of Tennessee's northern border.
The Blount Mansion is located in downtown Knoxville and it is the former home of William Blount who was the only territorial governor of the area once known as the Southwest Territory. It's a National Historic Landmark that provides a look back in time.
The Grey Gables Bed And Breakfast Inn can be found in Rugby, Tennessee, and boasts all the beauty of English influence with a little Tennessee country comfort sprinkled throughout. The bed and breakfast has ten bedrooms perfect for guests, and you'll have the chance to enjoy a gourmet dinner and country breakfast when you stay.
This is just the start of Tennessee's Top Secret trail. There is so much to see and do from hidden gems to highly sought-after locations that everyone can enjoy. Sometimes getting off the beaten path and exploring something new can be a thrilling experience so we hope we inspire you to get out and experience our great state of Tennessee. Interested in taking the leap and finding more tucked-away places? Check out our list of 10 of the best hidden gems in Tennessee.
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You can learn more about Tennessee's Top Secret Trail on the official Tennessee Vacation website.
As I'm sure you know, Tennessee is the place to go for many things, including its music scene. We think it's such a joy to live in a space that celebrates auditory art and self-expression! Nashville may be Music City, but the Tennessee Music Highway runs straight through the belly of the state, exiting south into Mississippi and finishing up in the heart of the Big Easy - New Orleans. The following list highlights seven gems along the way (and one bonus!) that we think you'll enjoy visiting when you're looking for somewhere different to explore when you're driving along Music Highway Tennessee.
Known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley's highly lauded career, Sun Studios has recorded some of the most famous musicians in the world, including Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash. Founded by Sam Phillips, this is one iconic music locale that you don't want to skip when you're riding along the Music Highway in Tennessee.
6. International Rockabilly Hall of Fame and Museum - Jackson
The International Rockabilly Hall of Fame and Museum is where you can experience and indulge in the history of 1950s rockabilly stars. Take in old photographs and props from musical greats like Brenda Lee, and watch iconic and influential performances throughout your tour of the building located on Music Highway.
Ah, yes. Graceland. It may not be a "hidden" gem, but it is a gem all the way around. This treasure is quite possibly one of the most iconic spots on our list of places to visit along Music Highway TN. Of course, you'll have to visit the home of Elvis Presley and see the world from his eyes. The Mississippi-born rockstar chose to live in Tennessee for the majority of his adult life, and his adopted state couldn't be more proud.
Upon learning where is the Music Highway in Tennessee, you might be surprised to learn that this next spot is on the route. Although a bit macabre, the Patsy Cline crash site is considered an honorary member of the Tennessee Music Highway. It's where one of the greats lost her voice, and the quiet, beautiful spot is located in the heart of the forest. It's a peaceful space that pays homage to a horrific and is sure to be humbling.
Located in her hometown of Nutbush, the Tina Turner Museum is based in a most interesting place: Tina's old schoolhouse. Flagg Grove School was where a young Anna Mae Bullock attended classes, and now houses her life's work in the form of personal items and rock memorabilia. Therefore, you'll get a history lesson when you visit this step along the Music Highway in Tennessee.
As you've been learning where is the Music Highway in Tennessee, you might be surprised to see that sum of the gems on this route are in plain sight. For instance, The Ernest Tube Record Shop is located on Honkytonk Highway in downtown Nashville and has been open for over 65 years. Over its lifetime, the space has collected all sorts of vinyl records and rare CDs. Wander through on your way to Tootsie's, and pick up some new tunes.
Editor's Note: As of 2023, this shop is going through renovations.
1. Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge - Nashville
Tootsie's World Famous Orchid Lounge can be found right behind the Mother Church of Country Music (The Ryman Auditorium!). This spot along Music Highway is known for its quirky exterior color and rooftop patio. There's live music nightly, and folks as big as Taylor Swift have made their way to the stage. Come to let go, let loose, and have a fun time out!
Okay...Preservation Hall is 100% not in Tennessee. It's in New Orleans, but we wanted to include it here because it serves as the final stop on the Music Highway, stretching from the heart of Nashville, through Tennessee and Mississippi, finishing its run at the very tip of Louisiana. The historic jazz space may be "touristy" to some, but there's nothing more pure than hearing "Saints" played by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
Now that you know where Music Highway in Tennessee is, let us know if you plan on visiting the gems you just learned about any time soon. I also suggest taking a look at Tripadvisor to learn of other sights to check out when you're traveling in Tennessee. You'll find ideas of other unique spots to go in our piece about hidden destinations in Tennessee, as well.
