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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Street view of a city street with brick and stone buildings; a tall vertical "TENNESSEE" sign hangs on a central building.

Spend a Day in Downtown Knoxville

Dine above the clouds at Cafe 7 at Rock City Gardens. Cafe 7's patio gives you expansive views of Chattanooga and the mountains beyond. Dine on Southern classics while enjoying the sunshine.

Outdoor Dining: Patios and Rooftops

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, a great indoor activity with kids in Gatlinburg. In Shark Lagoon, the moving glidepath brings you face-to-face with sharks, sawfish and sea turtles as they swim overhead.

Rainy Day Activities

Family boating scene on a white speedboat with a canopy; four people stand and fish along a calm shoreline. Sponsored

Explore the Lakeside of the Smokies

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

A top‑down view of a wooden table with bowls of green beans, shredded cabbage, a candle, glasses, and plant decor.

Award-Winning Nashville Restaurants

A plate of barbecue featuring sliced brisket, pulled pork, a toasted bun, and a cup of barbecue sauce.

10 Things to Do in Memphis

At a scenic overlook at Cherohala Skyway at Turkey Creek. A specialized viewfinder poised on a pedestal beckons those with color visual deficiency to gaze anew at the splendor of a simple magnificent Tennessee landscape. Out on the edge of discovery. Feel the open air on your skin, hear the serenity of nature’s natural sounds. Be at peace. Written about Cherohala Skyway at Turkey Creek Overlook in Tellico Plains, Tennessee.

Experience Tennessee's vibrant colors

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

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