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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Carnton in Franklin, TN

Discover Tennessee Trails and Byways

Discover Tennessee Trails and Byways
Nighttime street view of the historic Tivoli Theatre in Chattanooga, its illuminated red marquee and vertical sign glowing above the entrance, with cars parked along the quiet, rain-slicked downtown street.

New Experiences in 2026

New Experiences in 2026
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
Photo opportunities abound at murals in Brownsville, TN. Sponsored

Hidden Gems in Brownsville

Hidden Gems in Brownsville
Aerial view of Chattanooga at sunset, with a river winding through trees and buildings, mountains in the distance. Sponsored

Sights of the Scenic City

Sights of the Scenic City
Multiple thin waterfalls streaming down a wide layered rock face, surrounded by lush green summer forest canopy.

Secret Waterfalls

Secret Waterfalls
"Overhead shot of a plated dish featuring a seared slice of pork belly with crispy caramelized skin, set on a golden slab of cornbread, served on a gray ceramic dish with vibrant green herb sauce, fresh cherry tomatoes, pickled vegetables, and a lime wedge, garnished with microgreens and cilantro on a rustic wooden table.

Where to Eat in Tennessee

Where to Eat in Tennessee
Fossil ceilings, limestone walls,  The music starts when evening falls, Ancient rock echoes modern sounds, In the cool, dark underground. Written about The Caverns in Pelham, Tennessee.

Music History Destinations

Music History Destinations
Echoes of the empty are the only sound, Voices from the past whisper through the trees, Rustling up the dead leaves drying on the ground, Only oak and hickory growing where a small town used to be. Written about Tennessee’s Ghost Towns.

Guide to Ghost Towns and Haunted Places in Tennessee

Guide to Ghost Towns and Haunted Places in Tennessee