Top Things to do in Tennessee
Top Hotels in Tennessee
- 1. Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville Downtown
- 2. Holiday Inn Nashville-Vanderbilt (Dwtn), an IHG Hotel
- 3. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Nashville Downtown Stadium
- 4. The Peabody Memphis
- 5. Hutton Hotel
- 6. Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown
- 7. Margaritaville Island Inn
- 8. Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
- 9. Arbors at Island Landing Hotel & Suites
- 10. Best Western Plaza Inn
What to do and see in Tennessee, United States: The Best Nature & Wildlife Areas
Discover the best top things to do in Tennessee, United States including Shiloh National Military Park, Savage Gulf State Natural Area, Roaring Fork, Parrot Mountain and Gardens, Ijams Nature Center, Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail, Natural Bridge State Natural Area, Bledsoe Creek State Park, Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Cumberland Mountain State Park.
Restaurants in Tennessee
1. Shiloh National Military Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 792 reviews
Park honoring the Civil War battle at Shiloh and containing the cemetery where the fallen soldiers were buried.
Reviewed By davidrC7258YG - Valparaiso, United States
excellent interpretive center, beautiful and haunting drive, important historical significance, and makes you reflect upon the events and soldiers in the civil war. I would recommend this to anybody, even those who are not interested in the civil war--it shows the stark reality of the trials (and horrors) of the civil war, while also providing the larger picture of the strategies of both sides. At the time, this was one of the most significant battles in the Western theatre of the civil war. Take the time for the driving tour, well worth it. The staff were helpful and knowledgeable.
2. Savage Gulf State Natural Area
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 23 reviews
This is a section of the South Cumberland State Park known for its flowing waterfalls and boulder formations.
3. Roaring Fork
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,313 reviews
Reviewed By tgny23 - Alexandria, United States
Definitely worth driving through Roaring Fork! A one way drive through the Smoky Mountains with so much to see! We went over several bridges and were able to enjoy Little Pigeon Stream before it became an actual river. There are several old abandoned structures from yesteryear to explore and appreciate. There are are few great spots to stop and take a photo of downtown Gatlinburg from above the town. We were intent on seeing a bear, but we never did locate one, but several others I talked with did see a bear. Take it all in, it’s breathtaking.
4. Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By lizpR2007IU
Beautiful property and animals! Everything is well kept and the birds are beautiful. I love how they are saving the birds from abusive or homes that cannot care for them anymore. I also loved the scriptures through out the park and the displays of Christ in the prayer garden. The babies were so cute and sweet to hold! Pick one out and you can take take it home! Precious was kind to let me hold her as well. One sang Rocky Top to us and one whispered “whatcha doin?”! Lovely gift shop as well. Definitely wear comfortable shoes that you can walk in for a few hours!
5. Ijams Nature Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 841 reviews
Ijams Nature Center is a 315-acre member- and visitor-supported nonprofit organization, where people of all ages can hike, bike, paddle, climb, learn, explore, or simply enjoy nature in Knoxville, TN. The grounds and trails are open every day from 8:00am until dusk. The Visitor Center, including exhibits, gift shop, offices, and restrooms are open during regular business hours. Admission to the park is free, and we gladly accept donations. Fees for programs and special events vary. Established in 1910 by the Ijams (pronounced "EYE-ams") family for bird-watchers and nature-lovers, Ijams Nature Center has been ranked one of Knoxville's top three attractions by TripAdvisor, winning their 2016 Certificate of Excellence . Your generous support is needed to continue the ongoing legacy for generations to come!
Reviewed By 2Frequent_travelers - Knoxville, United States
I love the river walk, you can sit on the bench to soak up the views of the Tennessee river; you have many trails to walk through nature and just a short walk on the right is the Quarry. Ijams features a very cool zipline through the trees. highly recommend to anyone that just needs to get a break from the city. The quarry just down the road is great for more trails, kayaking (you can rent them, they will not allow you to launch your own), swimming and tubing.
6. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 100 reviews
Reviewed By aweidert - Atlanta, United States
We went with our 5 and 7 year old girls. We walked around the short concrete path is perfect for stroller or kid bikes. Perfect place for a family with grandparents who are slower. The loop is a great size for everyone to go at their own pace. We also climbed around down by the river and threw in rocks.
7. Natural Bridge State Natural Area
8. Bledsoe Creek State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 133 reviews
With more than 50 campsites, and over 6 miles of hiking trails, Bledsoe Creek State Park is perfect for family vacation or a brisk morning out next to Old Hickory Lake. Fishing is also permitted. More information on this park and many more can be found at the TN State Parks website.
Reviewed By LLCDMC
We live nearby and use the public trails for leisurely strolls and beautiful river views. Friendly and helpful park staff. Summer weekenders fill the campsites so we go during the weekdays for a more peaceful experience. Check out the activities offered to campers for children and adults. Beautiful woods and water activities.
9. Cedars of Lebanon State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 166 reviews
Cedars of Lebanon State Park is located in Wilson County and is part of the Cedars of Lebanon State Forest. The park is named for Eastern Red Cedar trees found throughout the area. The trees reminded early American settlers of the famed Biblical cedar forests that thrived across Mount Lebanon in what is now the Mediterranean area. Cedars of Lebanon became a state park in 1955. Eight miles of hiking trails meander through the cedar forests and glades. There are four trails in the park where you may catch a glimpse of fox, deer, squirrel, rabbits and turkey throughout the park. Picnicking is another popular activity. All picnic tables are equipped with grills and there are also 11 picnic shelters located throughout the park. Three of the picnic shelters can be reserved for a fee. The 900 acre park has 117 campsites equipped with picnic tables and grills, electric and water hookups.
Reviewed By Jpamr5 - Richmond, United States
November 3, 2020, was a beautiful day for a walk on the Hidden Springs Trail. The trail was an easy, rough 5 mile loop to walk ( about 2 hours). As we drove through the Cedars of Lebanon State Park we noticed the many amenities and how well kept the park is maintained. A pleasant stop on our road trip to Indiana.
10. Cumberland Mountain State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 394 reviews
This 1,720 acre park is great for all kinds of recreational activities such as golfing, hiking, biking, boating, swimming and bird watching. There is also space available for conventions or conferences. More information on this park and many more can be found at the TN State Parks website.
Reviewed By amandasally0 - Cookeville, United States
This was the prettiest park! We walked the Pioneer Short Loop and it is by far the prettiest trail in the area! We’ll be back. Just watch out for snakes around the caves and in the damp spots along the trail! We saw 3!
