Exploring the Off the Beaten Path Places to Visit in Tennessee

Tennessee is a stunning state with a wealth of incredible scenery, attractions and activities. From the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Music City of Nashville, there is something for everyone here. But to really get a taste of Tennessee, you need to take the road less traveled and explore some of the off the beaten path places to visit in the state. Here are some of the best places to explore when you’re looking for something a little different.

Obed Wild and Scenic River

The Obed Wild and Scenic River is a hidden gem in the Cumberland Plateau of eastern Tennessee. This peaceful river is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls and natural rock formations in the state. It’s a great place to go for some solitude and to take in the beauty of nature. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore around the river and the nearby town of Wartburg is a great place to stop for a bite to eat.

Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on the Obed, and there are several local outfitters who provide guided trips and equipment rentals. Fishing is also allowed on the river, and it’s a great place to catch smallmouth bass, rock bass and the occasional trout.

The Obed Wild and Scenic River is a great destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a sprawling, rugged landscape featuring a variety of natural features. This area is home to some of the best hiking and camping in the state, as well as an abundance of wildlife. It’s a great place to go for a leisurely hike, a challenging backpacking trip or a weekend of camping with friends.

The Big South Fork is also home to some of the best whitewater rafting and kayaking in the state. The rivers and streams in the park are full of rapids and are great for both experienced paddlers and beginners. There are several local outfitters who provide guided tours and equipment rentals.

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a great place for anyone looking for a unique outdoor adventure.

Cherokee National Forest

The Cherokee National Forest is a sprawling expanse of lush forestland in the southeastern corner of the state. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, wild turkeys and a variety of birds. It’s a great place to go for a leisurely hike, a challenging backpacking trip or a weekend of camping with friends.

The Cherokee National Forest is also a great place for mountain biking, as there are several trails that wind through the forest. It’s also a great place to go fishing, as the rivers and streams in the park are full of trout, bass and other types of fish.

The Cherokee National Forest is a great destination for anyone looking for a peaceful outdoor adventure.

Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain is a beautiful mountain located in the Chattanooga area of eastern Tennessee. It is home to several popular attractions, including Ruby Falls, Rock City and the Incline Railway. It’s a great place to go for a day of sightseeing and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Lookout Mountain is also a great place for hiking, with a variety of trails that wind through the forest. The views from the top of the mountain are spectacular and there are plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery.

Lookout Mountain is a great destination for anyone looking for an outdoor adventure with a little bit of culture thrown in.

Shiloh National Military Park

The Shiloh National Military Park is located in the small town of Shiloh in western Tennessee. This park is home to a variety of historic sites, including the Shiloh National Cemetery, the Shiloh Battlefield, and several monuments and memorials. It’s a great place to go to learn about the history of the area and the Civil War.

The park is also a great place to go for a leisurely walk or a bike ride. There are several trails that wind through the park, and they offer a great opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the area.

The Shiloh National Military Park is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the history of the Civil War.

Graceland

Graceland is the former home of the late Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee. This iconic attraction is home to a variety of Elvis memorabilia, including his cars, motorcycles and clothing. It’s a great place to go to learn about the life and career of the King of Rock and Roll.

Graceland also offers a variety of interactive attractions, including the Elvis Presley’s Memphis museum and the Elvis Presley’s Memphis restaurant. It’s a great place to go for a day of sightseeing and to get a taste of Elvis’s unique style.

Graceland is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the life and legacy of Elvis Presley.

Lynchburg

Lynchburg is a small town located in the hills of central Tennessee. It’s best known as the home of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, which offers tours and tastings of its famous whiskey. It’s also a great place to go for some shopping and dining, as the town is full of unique shops and restaurants.

Lynchburg is also a great place to go for some outdoor activities, with plenty of hiking trails, fishing spots and other outdoor attractions. It’s a great place to go for a weekend getaway and to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Lynchburg is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and relaxing getaway.

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park

The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is a sprawling park located in the Chattanooga area of eastern Tennessee. This park is home to a variety of historic sites, including the Chickamauga Battlefield, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield, and several monuments and memorials. It’s a great place to go to learn about the history of the area and the Civil War.

The park is also a great place to go for a leisurely walk or a bike ride. There are several trails that wind through the park, and they offer a great opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the area.

The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the history of the Civil War.

Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium is a world-class aquarium located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This impressive facility is home to a variety of aquatic life, including sharks, stingrays, seahorses and a variety of colorful fish. It’s a great place to go to learn about the amazing creatures that live in the world’s oceans.

The aquarium also offers a variety of interactive exhibits, including an IMAX theater, a touch tank and a behind-the-scenes tour. It’s a great place to go for a day of fun and learning.

The Tennessee Aquarium is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and educational experience.

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a unique museum located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This museum is home to a variety of historic locomotives, as well as a variety of historic artifacts and photos. It’s a great place to go to explore the history of the railroad in the area.

The museum also offers a variety of interactive attractions, including a locomotive simulator and a model train exhibit. It’s a great place to go for a day of fun and learning.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the history of the railroad in the area.

Conclusion

Tennessee is a stunning state with a wealth of incredible scenery, attractions and activities. From the Obed Wild and Scenic River to Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee Aquarium, there is something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, a relaxing getaway or an educational experience, there are plenty of off the beaten path places to visit in Tennessee.