A collage of various Tennessee attractions and experiences, overlaid with a purple and red gradient.

trip inspiration

When it comes to writing a song, or planning a trip, some of the best ideas seem to appear out of thin air. Or, from articles and itineraries we’ve already built for you.

Compass drawing with purple outline on grid background; shows cardinal directions and needle pointing northeast.

Sometimes the hardest part is just getting started. Here are a few trip ideas to help get you going. For better results, sort them by area or category of interest.

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A friendly little town up on the plateau,  A hustle and bustle remedy, They’re quick with a handshake and a hello, Welcome to Cookeville, in the heart of Tennessee. Written about Historic Downtown Cookeville, Tennessee.

Spend Day Small Town Cookeville TN

Spend Day Small Town Cookeville TN
Sprinkled, glazed and frosted donuts in colors of pink, red and orange behind a bakery case at Blackbird Bakery Donuts in Bristol, TN. A girl bends down to see the expansive selection. Tarts, slices of pie and chocolate desserts are lined up in another bakery case to her right.

Must-Visit Donut Shops in Tennessee

Must-Visit Donut Shops in Tennessee
Woman stands with arms raised in front of a brick arts center with large glass doors; sign reads “Center for the Arts.”

Performing Arts Theaters

Performing Arts Theaters
Museum exhibit room with displays and mannequins; wall panels, benches, and a large Carl Perkins display on the right. Sponsored

Experience History

Experience History
Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest in Memphis TN

BBQ Festivals in Tennessee

BBQ Festivals in Tennessee
Rural farm scene with a dirt road, wooden barn buildings, and fences, surrounded by trees on a sunny day.

Nashville's Trace Trail

Nashville's Trace Trail
Outdoor park scene with many people seated on the grass and blankets, crowds enjoying a sunny day near a water tower structure. Sponsored

Explore Discovery Park of America

Explore Discovery Park of America
Tern Club serves tropical inspired mocktails in Knoxville, TN. Expect pineapple and aloe leaves as garnishes in the fanciful mocktails and cocktails served.

Mocktails in Knoxville

Mocktails in Knoxville
Millions of lights at Christmas on the Cumberland in Clarksville, Tennessee.

Christmas Experiences 2025

Christmas Experiences 2025