By Tennessee, a state in the Southern U.S., is always on the checklist when it comes to taking a smashing vacation. Receiving a mind-boggling count of 100 million tourists annually, one is naturally curious about what entertainment the area offers.
With this article, let’s quench that curiosity by exploring the top nine entertainment places Tennessee has in store that give other tourist hotspots a run for their money. If you haven’t got the chance to visit Tennessee yet, these nine places are compelling enough reasons to spend your next holiday here.
1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, lush with forests and awe-inspiring peaks, forms the crown jewel of Eastern Tennessee.
Like a moth to a flame, visitors can’t resist coming to Tennessee and not stopping by for a magnificent stroll here. If you prefer more adventurous activities, brace yourself for hours of outdoorsy fun with the countless activities such as camping, hiking, and zip-lining that are also popular.
2. Nashville
Hardcore Music enthusiasts will find themselves entranced in Nashville, also known as the Music City. Its nickname can be attributed to the many famous musicians such as Justin Timberlake, Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin, and Gregg Allman (from Allman Brothers Band) belonging to this place.
Moreover, a significant portion of American Music of the ‘70s, ’80s, and ’90s took root here and then spread to other states. Attractions like the Memphis Music Hall of Fame and RCA Studio B pay homage to this rich American Music History of Tennessee.
3. Pigeon Forge Shows
Even though Pigeon Forge is saturated with extraordinary entertainment, shows in Pigeon Forge TN, deserve special emphasis due to its delicious food and splendid performing arts display.
Variety shows like the Comedy Barn are clean, hearty fun for the whole family and are sure to tickle anyone’s funny bone. And, just in case you have found yourself craving more, mouth-watering snacks like pizza, ice cream, and fresh-out-of-the-oven pretzels will make you forget all your worries.
4. Dollywood
Dollywood, owned by American singer, actress, and philanthropist Dolly Parton, is a brilliant labyrinth of shops, entertaining festivals, and thrilling rides.
Families can be found making a beeline to the #1 Theme Park in the U.S., a badge of honor it has deserved and remained worthy of since it opened its doors in 1961. New rides and attractions are added each year to make every experience enriching and fresh.
You might regret not trying the Lightning Rod, Mystery Mine, and FireChaser Express here for that rejuvenating adrenaline rush and hours of squirm-in-your-chain action that appeals to both kids and adults. Apart from the 40 rides it boasts, Dollywood is also speckled with a beautiful marketplace. There are shops and live shows around every nook and corner.
5. Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Thriller and true crime fans assemble! We’ve got just the place for you. At the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, you’ll find tons of real crime-related artifacts documenting the life story of the state’s notorious criminals. This museum is perfect for people who love devouring crime documentaries and crime literature and want to both study and entertain themselves with its intricacies.
With some of its most popular displays, including serial killer Ted Bundy’s VW Beetle, John Dillinger’s death mask, and John Wayne Gacy’s paint box, you can go behind the scenes of how a crime takes place and explore its macabre history in America.
6. Festival of Nations
The Festival of Nations, where cultures and cuisines from around the world are displayed in grandeur, is a sight for sore eyes. Ranging from folk dances, arts and crafts, music, and international performances, the Festival of Nations is brimming with entertainment for travel enthusiasts.
So if there is a country you want to visit or get a hands-on experience of their culture but can’t fit into your schedule, fret not. This festival will make you feel as if you are not just in Tennessee but on a unique world tour instead.
7. Hollywood Wax Museum
A two-story wax museum seems like a dream come true for tourists. Thankfully, Tennessee’s Hollywood Wax Museum makes that a reality. As the largest wax museum in the country, it holds a special place in the hearts of Hollywood fans as well as those looking to explore American culture and its film industry.
We suggest keeping a camera with extra storage in hand because this place has a plethora of picturesque spots and exhibits to make friends and colleagues back home envious.
8. Wonderworks
Education and entertainment. Sounds like an oxymoron, doesn’t it? Well, Wonderworks- the upside-down attraction in pigeon forge will make you change your mind.
With over a hundred science-focused exhibits to steal your breath away, visiting this indoor amusement park takes us back to our school days as a kid at a science fair again. Except, this one’s a whopping 42,000 square feet large area bustling with hands-on attractions that deftly move between fantasy and reality. No science fair could prepare you for the crazy adventure this one is!
Whether you visit the hurricane shack to experience how it feels being swiveled in 84mph wind or go on a mini-space adventure with zero gravity at the Astronaut Training Gyro, there is fun for all ages and interests.
9. Gatlinburg
The mountain town of Gatlinburg offers both natural and man-made attractions. The gorgeous cabins seem to have come straight out of a fairytale, with a glorious view of the Smoky Mountains and Little River painting the canvas. Here, you can enjoy river rafting, horseback riding, and a breezy picnic at Myrtle Point in Mt. LeConte.
As if these weren’t enough, Gatlinburg boasts numerous art galleries, restaurants, and its very own Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community as well, where you will find handicrafts dripping in sheer talent and food that’ll have you salivating with just a glance.
Conclusion
Tennessee is truly a hypnotizing vacation spot. Go to the state to blow off some steam and get thoroughly entertained when you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle of work and other social commitments. We hope the nine places mentioned in this article piqued your interest and that you’ll cross these off your bucket list soon!