There's something exciting about taking a trip from one state to another, whether you're looking to city hop or finagle your way through the countryside. Tennessee is tied with Missouri as the most neighborly state in the union, so you can head to Georgia or Kentucky or Mississippi. Still, it's the Tail of the Dragon that strings Tennessee to North Carolina that makes for a beautiful drive. If you have the heart of a lion and a surge of adrenaline, you can't miss it!
The Tail of the Dragon links east Tennessee to west North Carolina, and is officially designated US 129. It's known as one of the most beautiful roads in the nation, but also one of the most dangerous.
What makes it so special, you may ask? The Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap runs for eleven miles, with 318 curves in between. Yes, you read that right - three hundred and EIGHTEEN.
The road is bordered by both the famed Cherokee National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains. Both are known for their stunning fall colors and the influx of greenery during the warmer months.
Throughout the entire eleven miles you won't meet another intersecting road or even a driveway. Quite a few folks bring out their motorcycles or sports cars, ready and raring to take on the height and speed of the road.
A drive on the Tail of the Dragon is highly valued amongst thrill seekers across the world. You'll find folks coming in from all sorts of cultures and countries to try their hand at the crazy twists and turns high in the hills.
Would you drive the most exciting 11 miles in the US? Would you care to hop the state line on a motorcycle or in a sports car? You'll want to make sure there's no need for stops within the 11 miles (they go slow!) unless you're making your way to a scenic lookout.
If you're looking to continue to explore the state, you'll want to head on over to the ancient underground ocean. It's pretty incredible!
7 Christmas Towns in Tennessee That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer
Experience holiday magic as you visit the best Christmas towns in Tennessee. These festive celebrations will fill your heart with lots of Christmas cheer.
If you are low on holiday cheer, there's no need to fear, for there is a magical place very near. From east to west, we have found the best of the best; seven Christmas towns guaranteed to put your gloomy attitude to rest. What we have before you are the top Christmas towns in Tennessee that will change your "Bah humbug" to pure glee. Trust me (you will see), a trip to one of our TN towns is all it will be -- but after your visit, your spirit will be set free. These Christmas towns in Tennessee will warm your heart and fill your soul with glee.
It might have something to do with The Grinch, but I am just inspired by the spirit of the season to introduce these places in Dr. Seuss-like rhymes. However, you may be pleased to hear that, as for my rhyming, I am now done, so let's go to some Christmas towns for pure holiday fun!
1. Gatlinburg
In order to have one of the best Christmas towns in Tennessee, you have to have the entire community deck the halls and come out for the celebration. Gatlinburg is known for being a town that knows how to celebrate. When the holiday season comes, around the entire town is filled with sparkling Christmas lights. Not only is this mountain town transformed by the dazzling lights, but every business and attraction jumps on board with some of the best Christmas events in Tennessee. Catch the annual Christmas parade, walk one of the longest pedestrian bridges in America, immerse yourself with elaborate holiday displays at Anakeesta, and so much more. And while you're at it, knock out some shopping -- Gatlinburg is filled with unique gifts to check off your "nice" list with one-of-a-kind items.
2. Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is a lot like Gatlinburg when it comes to celebrations because they share the same spirit, finding inspiration from the Great Smoky Mountains. It truly is a magical place here in Tennessee, transforming into an even more enchanting place during Christmastime. Winterfest is a town-wide event that lasts for months, kicking off in November when the town decks the halls from every storefront to every attraction. There is one hotel in town that celebrates the holidays 365 days out of the year, however: The Inn at Christmas Place is a great place to spend the night if you come from out of town. Meanwhile, Dollywood puts on a massive celebration with some of the best Christmas lights I have ever seen, and places like the Island put up dazzling displays. Even restaurants like the Dixie Stampede and the Lumberjack Feud offer unique Christmas-themed shows. Add it all up, and it's safe to say that when it comes to "things to do for Christmas in Tennessee," you can find plenty to keep you busy in Pigeon Forge.
3. Franklin
Franklin is one of everyone’s favorite suburbs of Nashville and for good reason. The historical charm just lends itself to romantic hallmark movie-inspired Christmases. Take a stroll downtown to see the glittering splendor of thousands of holiday lights along with a spectacular Christmas tree. You will not want to miss the annual Christmas parade in Franklin, but just down the road in Leipers Fork, you can partake in one of the wackiest Christmas parades in Middle Tennessee! For an old-fashioned holiday experience, check out the annual classic known as a Dickens of a Christmas where all of Charles Dickens' characters come to life. With live music, costumes, and activities for the whole family to enjoy, this is one of the most anticipated holiday celebrations all the year. When it comes to Christmas festivals In Tennessee, it's pretty tough to beat the lineup you can find each year in Franklin.
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4. Jonesborough
Jonesborough is one of those iconic Christmas towns that wins you over with its historic charm and fills you with joy the second you take a step on those brick sidewalks. When you are looking for places to go for Christmas in Tennessee, this little town should be near the top of your list. Downtown Jonesborough is lined with decorated storefront windows, trees wrapped with lights, and delightful Christmas decor. The attention to detail is incredible and every time I have visited, I've been amazed by the beautiful decorations. Not only does the town look good, but they set up a whole month of activities sure to lift your spirits. The adorable "Doggone Christmas" event centers around man’s best friends with a parade, costume contest, and much more. Themed holiday celebrations, annual parades, and Christmas markets are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this month-long celebration in Jonesborough, Tennessee.
5. Union City
Union City is a little town in the northwestern corner of Tennessee that houses one of the best museums in the state. The Discovery Park of America hosts a drive-thru and walk-thru event called Let It Glow. Let It Glow features over a million lights illuminating a driving path filled with spectacular displays. The walk-thru portion is a sparkling wonderland through the gardens on the property. Not only is Union City home to this incredible event, the town also hosts an annual tree lighting, parade, and open house market to encourage shopping local at the many small businesses in town.
6. Granville
It can be argued that no place quite embraces its history like Granville. In fact, this town is so fully immersed in its roots that they have made multiple museums, decree a rotating theme every year for the town, have a pioneer village, and more! In terms of town spirit, you'll find it in spades in Granville, with the holidays having and the whole entire community coming together in their shared passion for all things merry and bright. The month-long celebration starts in November and continues through New Year's. The town's decorations are inspired by Hallmark Christmas movies, and they host a Christmas character parade, an antique toy show, and so much more. There is so much to love about a small town that embraces its roots and puts on a Christmas celebration this good.
7. Chattanooga
Chattanooga is one of those cities that is about the perfect size to have big experiences, but never gets too busy. I love Chattanooga and had to include it on this list for the unique events that appear across the city during the holiday season. The ever-popular North Pole Limited is one of the biggest Christmas events all year. People flock for the magical experience of riding a train to the North Pole and opportunity to immerse themselves in the historic wonder you can only find on an authentic engine. That's not all this Tennessee town has up its sleeve; on Lookout Mountain just over the border into Georgia, you can visit the enchanting Rock City which is completely covered in dazzling Christmas lights. The zoo is always fun to visit and watch the adorable animals, of course, but during the holidays the Chattanooga Zoo hosts its annual Asian Lantern Festival with the most elaborate and enchanting lantern displays. There are so many events planned throughout November and December that you can easily just spend those two months within the city limits and still not see it all!
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When the holly jolly season comes rolling around, these are some of the best Christmas towns in Tennessee to visit. So which one is your favorite? I hope it made our list! And if you have not been to one of these towns during the holiday season, then be sure to plan a trip this year. I guarantee that after your visit, your heart will be filled with lots of Christmas cheer.
It is never too early, or too late, to get that perfect gift for your loved ones. Allow us to help spark some creativity with our gift guide for travelers.
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.
