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
Family-friendly Adventure Science Center in Nashville, TN Sponsored

Explore Nashville's Adventure Science Center

Explore Nashville's Adventure Science Center
Old Country Store & Restaurant: weathered wooden facade with large red sign reading “OLD COUNTRY STORE & RESTAURANT.” Sponsored

Step Back in Time

Step Back in Time
Water roars over the cascading falls, The katydids sing in the trees, Secluded cabins cedar paths, A retreat to find some peace. Written about a cabin at Evins Mill Resort and Retreat in Smithville, Tennessee.

Romantic Getaways

Romantic Getaways
A small tour boat carrying passengers glides across the still, dark waters of an underground cave lake, its lantern glow illuminating jagged rock formations and stalactites overhead.

Small Towns Near Big Cities

Small Towns Near Big Cities
Visitor viewing a wall of framed photographs and a large poster featuring a gymnast performing on a beam with the name “BESSIE SMITH” visible above; blue patterned wall.

Blues Music Pathways

Blues Music Pathways
Two people in a blue raft race down a white-water river with others in the background; paddling through green, forested canyon.

Rapids to Railroads: Adventure Through the Tanasi Trail

Rapids to Railroads: Adventure Through the Tanasi Trail
Outdoor rooftop patio at The Mailroom in Clarksville, Tennessee, with diners seated at tables under string lights, overlooking historic downtown buildings at sunset.

Outdoor Dining: Patios and Rooftops

Outdoor Dining: Patios and Rooftops
Brunch at 5th & Taylor in Nashville, TN

Must-try Tennessee Brunch Spots

Must-try Tennessee Brunch Spots