11 Places In Tennessee That Are Off The Beaten Path But Worth The Trip
Discover eleven unique and intriguing spots to visit on a Tennessee road trip, from the world's largest treehouse to a museum dedicated to salt and pepper shakers.
Looking for a neat spot to stop in the midst of a Tennessee drenched road trip? Oh, good. Because we most definitely have eleven solid spots that are sure to strike your fancy. Whether your kids are chomping at the bit to get out of the car or you need a bit of adventure, we've got you ALL taken care of. Take a look!
Built out of "divine inspiration," it's said that The Minister's Treehouse may be the largest treehouse in the ENTIRE world. Although you can't walk through (it's too dangerous, folks), you CAN drive by and take in the magnificent hulk of this stunning childhood dream.
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Editor’s note: As of late 2019, the treehouse is no longer standing. Please enjoy the photos below as a reminder of this remarkable structure.
At one point you could rent this spaceship house, but now it's privately owned. Doesn't mean you can't ogle at the strange, oblong reality of this quirky Chattanooga home.
Located out in the boonies, the Jack Daniel's Distillery is one of the most popular spots to visit in Tennessee. The famed Volunteer State whiskey has worldwide renown, and you can visit where it all began.
An art display for the ages, Billy Tripp's Mindfield is said to dictate his moods throughout his life. The oversized metal structure is awe-inspiring and photo inducing, so if you're in Brownsville you may have to head on over.
Known as one of the most honest and heart-wrenching displays of Titanic history in the world, The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge will give you a scaled look of the actual ship and a walk-through of the museum that mirrors the wicked tie to history.
Known as one of the most haunted tales in Tennessee, even Andrew Jackson felt it necessary to stay away from the Bell Witch Farm. John Adams is said to have been tortured and killed by the ghost, and many flock to the area on an annual basis to hear the chilling ghost story.
We all know Tina Turner, and her music that pays an homage to her tiny town of Nutbush, Tennessee. You can visit their sweet Tina Turner museum, and it's just as lovely as it sounds - this town is truly proud of their girl.
Located in Camden, you can find the plane crash site that famously took the life of Patsy Cline and her fellow passengers. A quiet spot in the woods is privy to this hallowed, country music spot of grief - but what a beautiful place to pay our respects.
Opened in 1929, the oft-forgotten little sister to Cumberland Caverns is just as exciting and you could argue almost MORE intricate underground. It was originally opened as 'Tennessee Caverns,' with a range of electric lights and trails for visitors.
Have you ever heard of a place like this? Full of historic Americana and personal collections, you'll see a collage of American home life through the ages once you walk through these doors.
Now located on private property and almost destroyed, "The Evil Dead" cabin has been cemented in history by its visceral portrayal of the horror genre. We'd recommend driving the backroads of Morristown - you'll feel like you just stepped on set. Because you really did.
How many of these have you crossed off your bucket list?
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.
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...
