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Top cities between Brevard and Nashville
Best stops along Brevard to Nashville drive
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39 Best Stops Between Brevard and Nashville

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedApr 10, 2023

How long is the drive from Brevard to Nashville?

The direct drive from Brevard to Nashville is 316 mi (509 km), and should have a drive time of 5 hrs 4 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Brevard to Nashville, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Asheville, Knoxville, Cherokee, Sevierville, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Maggie Valley, and Townsend, as well as top places to visit like The Biltmore Inn and French Broad Adventures, or the ever-popular Southern Highland Craft Guild, Folk Art Center.

Visiting Brevard or Nashville? See our Brevard Trip Planner and our Nashville Trip Planner.
316 mi
Total Distance
5 hrs 4 mins
Drive Time
39 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Brevard and Nashville

The top cities between Brevard and Nashville are Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Asheville, Knoxville, Cherokee, Sevierville, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Maggie Valley, and Townsend. Gatlinburg is the most popular city on the route. It's 2 hours from Brevard and 4 hours from Nashville.
1

Asheville

Asheville, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, is a city renowned for its thriving arts scene and historic architecture. The area is home to the impressive Basilica of Saint Lawrence and the grand Biltmore estate, which showcases masterpieces by artists like Renoir. The Downtown Art District features numerous galleries and museums, while the nearby River Arts District occupies former factory buildings that now serve as artists' studios.
31% as popular as Gatlinburg
7 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to Nashville
2

Maggie Valley

Nestled in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina, Maggie Valley is a charming town located on the eastern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can explore the park's natural beauty, including wildflowers and black bears, along trails like Deep Creek Trail with its stunning waterfalls. For winter sports enthusiasts, Cataloochee Ski Area offers slopes and trails for skiing and snowboarding. History buffs will enjoy the Wheels Through Time Museum's collection of vintage motorcycles and rare cars.
3% as popular as Gatlinburg
13 minutes off the main route, 22% of way to Nashville
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Rooms and guests
Rooms
1
Adults
2
Children
0
Travelers
2
3

Cherokee

Cherokee, located in western North Carolina, is a town on the reservation of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. Visitors can experience the 18th-century Cherokee lifestyle at Oconaluftee Indian Village through live demonstrations and watch the tribal story unfold at the outdoor Mountainside Theatre during summer performances of 'Unto These Hills.' The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers campgrounds and Appalachian hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
13% as popular as Gatlinburg
40 minutes off the main route, 26% of way to Nashville
4

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

National park
Nature & Parks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for millions of visitors who come to enjoy its campgrounds, trails, and fishing streams. The park boasts incredible biodiversity and holds cultural significance for the Cherokee people as their ancestral homeland. Additionally, it is important to descendants of Scottish-Irish settlers who shaped Appalachian culture.
26% as popular as Gatlinburg
1 hour off the main route, 36% of way to Nashville
5

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, a charming mountain town in eastern Tennessee, serves as the gateway to the expansive Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town offers various attractions that provide stunning views of the neighboring park, such as the Space Needle observation tower and the Sky Lift aerial cable car. Gatlinburg is conveniently located near multiple park entrances, making it an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of the area.
Most popular city on this route
25 minutes off the main route, 39% of way to Nashville
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6

Sevierville

Sevierville, located in east Tennessee, is a city with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It is the birthplace of country singer Dolly Parton, whose influence can be seen throughout the area. Visitors can explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the south, known for its forest trails and waterfalls. The downtown area features a bronze statue of Dolly Parton near the historic courthouse. Additionally, aviation enthusiasts can visit the Tennessee Museum of Aviation to see vintage aircraft on display.
17% as popular as Gatlinburg
9 minutes off the main route, 41% of way to Nashville
7

Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, located in eastern Tennessee, is a charming mountain town known for its array of attractions. One of the highlights is Dollywood, an Appalachian-themed amusement park founded by country singer Dolly Parton. Visitors can enjoy rides, a water park, and a museum showcasing Parton's costumes and memorabilia. The city also offers entertainment options such as country music revues at venues like the Smoky Mountain Opry and dinner theaters including Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede.
97% as popular as Gatlinburg
19 minutes off the main route, 41% of way to Nashville
8

Townsend

Townsend, a charming city in Blount County, Tennessee, was chartered in 1921 and has a population of around 550 people. It is known as the Gateway to the Smokies and is located just a few miles from the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town is nestled alongside the pristine Little River, which descends from the mountains and provides drinking water to the community.
6% as popular as Gatlinburg
25 minutes off the main route, 46% of way to Nashville
9

Knoxville

Knoxville, located in eastern Tennessee along the Tennessee River, offers a charming mix of history and modern attractions. The Market Square district boasts 19th-century buildings housing various shops and dining options, while the Museum of East Tennessee History showcases interactive exhibits and Civil War artifacts. Visitors can also explore James White's Fort, a reconstructed 1786 log cabin that represents Knoxville's first permanent building.
14% as popular as Gatlinburg
3 minutes off the main route, 47% of way to Nashville

Best stops along Brevard to Nashville drive

The top stops along the way from Brevard to Nashville (with short detours) are Dollywood, Sugarlands Distilling Company, and Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. Other popular stops include Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) Rafting, Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort - A Caesars Rewards Destination, and Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.
1

Southern Highland Craft Guild, Folk Art Center

Mentioned on 
+60 other lists 
Art center
Museums
The Southern Highland Craft Guild, Folk Art Center is a must-visit destination for those interested in traditional and modern Southern Appalachian crafts. Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it serves as part museum, organizational headquarters, and living art workshop. Visitors can explore museum-style exhibitions showcasing various artworks and crafted items while also enjoying live art demonstrations by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Additionally, there's a library and gift shop offering unique handmade items for sale.
I am truly in love with this place. I love all the art and unique items. If you have an appreciation for art, whimsy things, craft, or just history. Definitely come. The upstairs was so lovely. I LOVE the wood carved birds. I recommend getting one, the gentlemen is also so kind and hardworking. I would definitely say, everything is so expensive, but everything’s so nice to look at. The blue Shaw, I will come back for it ONE DAY, I’ve never been so in love. The place was great, the staff was so sweet and friendly. The information was great. The lady at the information desk also, wonderful I adore her. I just so recommend this place.
Angela O — Google review
Lovely time to come visit the Folk Art Center. We visited last winter when NC had been severely damaged from the Hurricane Helene and it is wonderful seeing all of the beautiful crafts on display in the center and seeing the artists who made them. So happy to be able to support local artists and to support the reconstruction of the Blueridge parkway. Thank you for all you do!
Juliet C — Google review
This might be an interesting stop at the start of Blue Ridge Parkway. The exhibits at this center change, and we found some lovely wool works. They were very cute and made us smile. There's a wonderful gift shop, which already had a lot of interesting and truly beautiful Christmas tree decorations in October. I can only imagine what luxurious Christmas tree decorations will appear here in November and early December! We didn't buy anything because the prices were too high for us. But if the prices had been a little lower, I would have left with three or four purchases for sure!
Natalya M — Google review
The Folk Art Center in Asheville is a wonderful place to visit, especially if you’re driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We headed north toward the top of the mountain, and the colors were absolutely beautiful. It’s a great time to visit — this weekend was amazing, and the coming weekend should be just as lovely with the fall colors. The place is clean, well-maintained, and offers plenty of free parking. There’s no entry fee, and they even have restrooms available. Inside, you’ll find beautiful handmade crafts and artwork, as well as a few art galleries where you can purchase unique pieces. The lady at the help desk was very kind and helpful — she patiently answered all our questions and explained everything clearly. Overall, it’s a lovely stop with a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of local charm. Definitely worth visiting if you’re exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Anurag K — Google review
I always stop here whenever I’m in the area to see what I can find. Wide variety of gifts for yourself or others with a range of prices. If you have young children, you may want to have one parent walk around with them outside since there are lots of breakable things. There is also a small gift shop for the Blue Ridge Parkway that has some cute things for kids! There are also usually crafters demonstrating their techniques. Lots of parking as well
Heather P — Google review
Outstanding collects of local arts and crafts. Here you will find a bit of everything and many offerings are reasonably priced or unique in style. This place is worth a look and your time. Great for gifts or for your personal collection of goods s.
C L — Google review
If you're in the area and you need something to do this would be a great place to stop and explore lots of different exhibits on the folk art of the Blue Ridge Parkway lots of things to look and the way it was set up was planned out well they have a visitor center gift shop and a Folk Art Center gift shop you'll definitely find something interesting here
Lewis K — Google review
The Folk Art Center is one of the stops on the Blue Ridge Parkway. A lot of the Parkway is still closed and this is the last stop at the moment as there are barriers preventing you from going north. The Folk Art Center is free to visit. Sometimes when I visit, you can see people working on their crafts. They were during my most recent visit. The building is accessible for everyone. The first floor has restrooms, the Southern Highlands Craft Guild shop and a Blue Ridge Parkway shop and an information desk. The second floor showcases the art. I love seeing all the different types of art from the quilts to woodworking to basket weaving. I enjoyed the stained glass and a canvas that was woven. It was quite unique. I enjoy the rotating exhibits as it is different each visit. Outside there are some trails if you want to explore nature.
Rebecca M — Google review
4.7
(544)
•
4.6
(1439)
382 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Asheville, NC 28805, USA
http://www.craftguild.org/
(828) 298-7928
2

The Biltmore Inn

Hotel
Nature & Parks
The Biltmore Inn is a beautiful, historic hotel located outside of Asheville in South Asheville. It has a wide variety of rooms and suites to choose from, as well as several great restaurants and lounges within the property. The atmosphere is romantic and inviting, perfect for any special occasion.
"The Vanderbilt Way" of excellence continues at this Inn with unparalleled customer service, food, and lodging. We absolutely enjoyed our trip. They made our Honeymoon so special by treating us & going "above and beyond' to ensure our trip was romantic, comfortable, and enjoyable. We are so grateful. Thank you.
Elizabeth E — Google review
Beautiful property. Well maintained. Lovely and knowledgeable staff. Loved the audio. Listen at your own pace and the extra tidbits of information we learned on the audio before entering a new room. Very interesting.
Tammy J — Google review
I had my bridal luncheon here and it was amazing! Vanessa and Cole were so sweet and kind. I also really appreciated that I forgot to tell my aunt who hosted, that one of the bridesmaids was gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescatarian. When I asked Vanessa, if it was just possible for them to make one salad without the dressing so she could eat, she took initiative and made sure to prepare a whole meal for her to be able to eat lunch with the rest of us. That meant a lot to me to know that someone I love dearly could partake in lunch with us even though it was an error on my end. Overall I absolutely had the best time, the scenery is beautiful but the staff and service is a quality like no other!
Allison C — Google review
Highly recommend! Everything was perfect! Excellent service. Our room was beautiful, spotless and the bed was so comfortable. The view from our room was over the top! We loved morning breakfast. It was outstanding. Drinks and music on the main floor was a delight.
Ashfield L — Google review
A fabulous stay! I recommend it highly! They have excellent staff, rooms and food! The Biltmore is beautiful!
Shari L — Google review
Loved staying at the Biltmore Inn. We had one of the newly renovated rooms with a fantastic view. The room was very clean and comfortable. We had the package which included the buffet breakfast and private morning tour of the house before they opened. The private tour is a must. We had a group of 5 plus the guide. It was quiet and you could really ask questions and go at a pleasurably pace. We also had a pass for the length of stay and we went back to the house after lunch and it seemed like there were several thousand people in the house. It was noisy and hard to maneuver through the rooms. The grounds of the estate were the most impressive to us. I highly recommend staying at the Inn where It’s easy to experience the entire estate.
Ken R — Google review
Probably the worst experience I ever had . Beth the Director of Reservations and Dina at the front desk were very difficult and condescending.
Harry H — Google review
Most marvelous place to stay. Take an extra day to truly enjoy the experience.
Kathy R — Google review
4.5
(106)
•
5.0
(2287)
One Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803, USA
http://www.biltmore.com/stay/inn
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3

French Broad Adventures

Raft trip outfitter
Tours
Adventure sports center
Tour operator
River Rafting & Tubing
Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
Our family went on the E-bike easy mountain adventure along the French Broad River into Tennessee. We had so much fun, and the scenery was beautiful, like a postcard! Our guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and patient with our group and made the trip so pleasant. I highly recommend this adventure, and we will definitely be returning in the future.
Carla W — Google review
What an amazing team dynamic with all of the instructors and staff. I went with a party of 6 and everyone had a great time as first timers with White Water Rafting. Our raft guide Sam made our experience top notch by giving us humor, great connection with communication and challenging our group with different skills on the water. You will be entertained from start to finish for sure! Loved how detailed the staff were when explaining the safety rules because it really prepared us to feel comfortable and confident when entering the raft. Would like to say thank you to the whole staff for providing an amazing time to us Florida Boys and giving us another reason to visit Marshall, NC!
Winston L — Google review
GREAT half day white water rafting trip last weekend for my sister’s bachelorette! We were a group of 9 and our guides, Pete and Kerrie, were both amazing! They were knowledgeable, skilled, and kept us entertained throughout the whole trip! Some of us were more nervous than others but we all felt safe and had loads of fun! We would definitely do this trip (or the whole day trip) again!!
Megan A — Google review
My daughter and I had a blast Ziplining with TJ and Avahni! Very fun, knowledgeable, safe and personable experience. Thank you so very much for helping to make our mother daughter trip memorable!
Delise P — Google review
BOOK IT! My fiancé and I were debating on which company to go with for my first time white water rafting and I’m so glad that we chose them. Let’s just say I am a 33 year old woman and was nervous all day. But the moment we got on the water I could not stop smiling. Rob was an amazing guide! I feel like he made the experience even more amazing. He was very knowledgeable and gave us tips on what to do and not to do. We also had such a great group! He had us to a few tricks like rock spins and a splat rock! I never thought I’d be doing tricks my first time. We booked the 4 hour and I immediate regretted not choosing the full day tour. Next time we are definitely doing a full day. New hobby unlocked! Also I have to mention, Amy our bus driver was a champ and John did a great job keeping us entertained on our 20 minute bus ride with all of his dad jokes. Amazing! All the tour guides were so nice and friendly. I also loved how they took pictures! I know some companies do not.
Natassia Y — Google review
What a fun day ebiking along the French Broad River through Pisagh National Forest in NC to Painted Creek through Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee. You pass wild turkey, cruise along the river, see waterfalls galore, dip in a swimming hole and more. The bikes are comfortable and easy to use. The guides, Amy & Mike accommodate all riding levels. You go at your own pace. This outfit has their act together. The site is simple, informative for payment, directions, FAQ, etc. They have your bike, helmet and optional backpack ready. You show up, put on helmet, get on bike and ride. Amy & Mike are professional, knowledgeable, skilled, engaging, fun, personable and helpful. They also offer rafting, canyoneering/rappelling, ziplining and wall climbs. Check them out. Strongly recommend
Jan M — Google review
My white water rafting half day trip was wonderful. I'd had an equally great zip lining experience a few years ago with this company and they excelled again on this trip. All the staff were helpful & knowledgeable and eager to share their love of the area. Our experienced guide John took care to make it a fun & safe trip and was a wealth of info about the river, the environment and history. The two photographers who kayaked ahead were also great and knew just where to position for great pictures. I'll be taking another adventure with this company whenever I'm back in the area!
Susan G — Google review
Our family did a half day rafting trip with John on Tuesday. We had a great time seeing the sights, learning about the amazing river and bouncing around and off the rocks. John is a great guy and kept us all in the boat. We enjoyed hanging out with him and his entertainment on the bus was A+. My kids are begging for more and want to come back earlier in the year when the river is at its peak.
Allison R — Google review
4.9
(1334)
•
5.0
(1718)
12 Good Adventures Ln, Marshall, NC 28753, USA
https://www.frenchbroadrafting.com/
(828) 649-0486
4

Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum

Mentioned on 
25 lists 
Museum
History museum
Specialty Museums
Located in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum is a must-visit destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs. This 38,000-sq.-ft. museum houses over 300 rare motorcycles along with related exhibits, photos, and memorabilia. The museum gained fame through TV shows like American Pickers on the History Channel. Visitors can explore a unique collection of motorcycles dating from the early days to present times, including one-of-a-kind pieces that come with fascinating stories.
Thought we were going to see a cool place...we were completely unprepared for how truly AWESOME it was/is! Easily became one of our favorite places of our vacation! The staff was SO friendly and knowledgeable, so many great stories, and beyond hospitable ♡ so much to see in every nook and cranny, be prepared to lose track of time. LOVE that they start up the engines around every corner, love the history, just LOVED it all around!!
Brittany S — Google review
This was a very nice museum. They had many motorcycles and it was very interesting. I got to see many one-of-a-kind motorcycles. The people giving the tours were very informative and provided us with lots of information. They have a wide selection of souvenirs and T-shirts to purchase if you would like.
Kanae M — Google review
This place has the most amazing, beautiful, insane and unique collection I've ever had the opportunity to see! They have everything from antique untouched bikes to fully restored antiques. One off builds and some amazing cars too. The staff are super friendly. This is A Must visit if you are near the Maggie Valley area or Cherokee NC
Wallace H — Google review
If you are a biker or like bikes or even the slightest bit I interested in bikes this is the place to learn American biking history. From the earliest to the gaudiest display of being on a bike, tou can see it here. We traveled hours to get here and don't regret it at all. The family and bike club alike will learn and enjoy an American historical adventure.
Matt “ — Google review
We've visited WWT many times. The permanent exhibits feel like old friends that we are always happy to see, while the new items and changing exhibits keep the museum fresh, allowing us to learn even more history! Matt and all of the staff members are doing an excellent job, in Dale's absence, and it's evident that they all truly love this place! They're very knowledgeable, and filled with amazing stories about everything! We loved listening to Tony, as he started various machines and gave us more history than we could imagine! On this visit, my husband donated a beautiful lap robe that had been passed down from his grandparents. Matt was very excited to receive it, and said we made his day! We are very happy that a piece of our family's history, now has a wonderful home where everyone can enjoy it!
Valerie N — Google review
It's an Excellent Museum Definitely a 'Bucket List' Item If you have an interest in Bikes and Any other associated items. I'm a NHS Maintenance Fitter in England. Anything Mechanical interests Me 😏 Only supplied 5 photo's of the 56, inc videos that I took. As I don't want to spoil the enjoyment of it for anyone.
Stephen P — Google review
This was my first visit here. I am pleasantly surprised! The amount of inventory was astounding. Only $15 per person with a hand stamp that allows you to leave and come back. Worth every penny
Josh H — Google review
This review is way overdue. We had an amazing visit at Dale’s Wheels Through Time. 10/10 would recommend. There were no official tours, however, we were lucky enough to have Tony show us numerous bikes and answer any question we had. He even started up a few bikes for us! By far the best collection we have ever seen and beautifully displayed.
Rebecca K — Google review
4.9
(4621)
•
4.8
(1459)
62 Vintage Ln, Maggie Valley, NC 28751, USA
http://www.wheelsthroughtime.com/
(828) 926-6266
5

Raft Outdoor Adventures

Mentioned on 
5 lists 
Raft trip outfitter
Tours
River Rafting & Tubing
Raft Outdoor Adventures is an outfitter in the Smoky Mountains that offers a variety of guided rafting trips, catering to both leisurely floats and thrilling whitewater experiences. Families visiting the area can also enjoy activities like scenic hikes and educational programs at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors have praised the friendly staff and knowledgeable guides at Raft Outdoor Adventures, who provided informative insights about the Big Pigeon River.
It was absolutely one of our favorite things. our guide was wonderful and calm and kept us informed on what was needed done and when. I got to sit up front at the princess place on the raft (😉)and video and take pictures it was my first time going such a blast. Highly recommended
Terrie B — Google review
KO was our guide and she was amazing! I took my 5 year old granddaughter for her first rafting trip so we did the Lower River trip. My granddaughter and I both had an amazing experience and I’d have to say this was the highlight of our week long trip in the area too top everything else we did. My granddaughter started out with telling KO she wasn’t going to row when she was handed an oar but quickly changed her mind once on the river and saw how much fun it was. I’d definitely recommend this company to anyone thinking of doing rafting. When we get a chance to come back this way we will definitely come back.
Cathy S — Google review
Today, I got to mark rafting off of my bucket list. We chose the upper, and I will have to say, I'm ready to go again. Our guide was Chris (Fornite), and he was amazing, I highly recommend him. He was very informative about the river & told about Hurricane Helene. He was so upbeat the entire ride. Chris, thanks for an amazing wild ride today. I can't wait to come back.
Brenda G — Google review
The whole family had a fantastic time. “Thank you” to all the competent staff and Griz, our guide. We rolled up to the outfitters down a scenic route, got there early for plenty of parking, by the time we hung out for a little while and were ready it was time to grab the gear and get a quick lesson. We piled onto the bus for a quick trip upstream and dropped in. The bus was a little cozy but the ride is pretty quick and it wasn’t a big deal because in no time, after another lesson on the bus and a few extra jokes from the staff it was time to hit the water. It’s a short one hour trip with a few really fun class threes, just enough to cool off, have a thrill, grab lunch after, and catch a small hike to round out the day. Nice job guys.
Ken — Google review
We had the best time on the river today. Our guide, Jay, was friendly and shared stories and facts about the area that made our trip even more entertaining. He is also very skilled at helping a girl out when she fell out. She is me. Thanks Jay!
Melisss L — Google review
They were awesome! The guides were really experienced and fun. When my youngest child was a bit nervous, one of guides spoke with her and made her feel less fearful and more excited about the trip. Our whole family had a blast!
Jennifer B — Google review
My fiancé, cousins, and I had so much fun rafting with Raft Outdoor Adventures! Our guide, Lance, ensured we were safe and well-prepared and kept us entertained with a wealth of knowledge about both local history and rafting. I highly recommend rafting with Raft Outdoor Adventures and will definitely return if the opportunity arises!
Matthew C — Google review
I don't usually do reviews, but couldn't pass up this one. Our family went rafting for the first time ever over Labor Day weekend on the III course to celebrate our daughter's upcoming 16th birthday. Courtney was our guide. Our party was 5 people, myself, my spouse, and our daughters, age 15, 10 and 10. We had the BEST time and everyone wanted to go back and do it again. Courtney was so great with our group and patient as we learned, but also able to teach us and encourage us. This was one of our favorite experiences and I can't say enough about how awesome our guide was. Highly recommend! If you are wondering who all was there and what type of crowd goes on these trips, I can share with you that other people who went out in our rafting group included a college group, couples without children, and a group of young men out for a bachelors weekend, and a few other families. Everyone had fun! We will go again and seek out other rafting opportunities in the future. Courtney hooked our whole family on this
Sara M — Google review
4.9
(4022)
•
5.0
(2014)
3635 Trail Hollow Rd, Hartford, TN 37753, USA
https://raftoutdooradventures.com/
(866) 333-7238
I'll never travel to Nashville without this trip planner again
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6

Rafting In the Smokies

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Permanently Closed
Raft trip outfitter
Tours
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting with 'Rafting In the Smokies' on the Pigeon River, just a short drive from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Maggie Valley. Choose between the upper tour for adventurous rapids or the lower tour for a more family-friendly experience. The guides are praised for their great communication and informative yet fun approach. After your exhilarating ride, take advantage of on-site showers to freshen up.
Rafting In The Smokies was an absolutely amazing adventure!!! Our raft guide, Barbie, was super amazing!! She not only provided awesome coaching and instruction (had us out there looking like an Ivy League rowing team...Harvard...Yale let's race) but she also jumped into action with no hesitation when my son fell in. Surely one experience he won't forget for years to come...in my opinion he had the BEST experience out of everyone. He was a little shaken up at first, but later (after lunch lmao) found the courage to jump in during the swimming parts of our rafting adventure!! The high tides (smooth ride), low tides (bumpy ride), the wildlife, and the scenery are all worth it!!! And if you are as lucky as my son, you'll fall in at some point and then get pampered like a prince for the remainder of the adventure. Definitely an adventure I'd go on again. Definitely worth it!!
Arthur J — Google review
Our first experience as a family going rafting and the lower river family float was the perfect way to g et our feet wet! Our son LOVED it and was ready for more. We felt completely safe and our guide Allie was amazing! Highly recommend for anyone wanting an adventure without the fear!
Jessica D — Google review
Moss was a great guide. Had a 9 yr old with us and she had a blast. She said it was her favorite part of our week long trip. She got to just sit in the front since the paddle was too big and enjoyed all the dips and splashes. Loved how quick and efficient everything was to get into the water. Grabbed a bunch of souvenirs and quality photos from the experience.
H P — Google review
Everyone there was super nice, friendly, and welcoming. The rope course had different levels for each person’s comfortability. The guides for the rope course made sure to explain the rules and that they could assist throughout the whole course. There is a chance for rope blisters, but the staff had first aid prepared. To avoid blisters, one could ask for some gloves. The guides for the zip lining were very experienced and could show off their tricks on the line. It was cool to see and a great experience!
Terri T — Google review
We had an amazing experience with Rafting in the Smokies! The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and ensured everyone's safety while keeping the adventure fun. The rafting trip down the Pigeon River was thrilling, with just the right mix of rapids and calm stretches to enjoy the stunning scenery. The equipment was top-notch and well-maintained. This is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Smoky Mountains, and we highly recommend Rafting in the Smokies for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!
Pradeep P — Google review
Lots of fun!!! Camping was amazing!! Nice clean showers and kind owners. Fourth of July was incredible with fireworks. Definitely be back!! Very family oriented. Thank you for a fantastic time.
Kim H — Google review
Such a fun experience for my husband and I, and it was super affordable!! We were walk-ins and they were able to get us in within the hour. Our guide Mason was super funny and knowledgeable, and the scenery was absolutely gorgeous. We highly recommend eating at the Pigeon River Smokehouse right across the street before or after your trip. The brisket sandwich was sooo good!!
Hallie F — Google review
Went here with a group of 11 with kids and adults. We first went zip lining and it was great way to have my first zip lining experience. The zip lines are not super long so for first timers is helpful. The workers were informative and attentive. Sean and J1 were our guides and made sure everyone was safe, comfortable and having a good time. We brought lunch and were able to eat at the picnic tables but they do have food places around. Our second activity was the lower level rafting, due to ages of kids, and it was one of the coolest things I have ever done. You have to paddle on the lower levers rafting but get to relax more down the river. We were able to hop in the water at one point and float down the river with the mountains all around us. The Mountain Views were a sight to see. Our guide Jason was the best. He was friendly, informative and helped us be the first boat to make it to the pick up spot. He also was able to lift me out of the water and back into the boat which I was worried I wouldn’t make it back in. He was able to answer all our questions and made the trip enjoyable. The youngest kids got to sit in the front of the boat and enjoy the ride while the rest of us paddled. You need water shoes to participate and will be putting on a helmet and life vest. Great place to bring the family.
Michelle C — Google review
4.8
(1576)
•
5.0
(3335)
3595 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753, USA
https://raftinginthesmokies.com/
7

Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) Rafting

Mentioned on 
+8 other lists 
Rafting
Tours
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting with Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) Rafting on the Pigeon River, offering both fast-paced upper and gentler lower sections for an unforgettable adventure. Located in Hartford, TN, just a short drive from Gatlinburg, SMO Rafting is a reputable outfitter known for providing safe and enjoyable trips.
An unforgettable adrenaline-filled experience! We went rafting with this incredible team and it was one of the most exciting adventures we've ever had. From the start, they gave us all the necessary instructions to make us feel safe and enjoy ourselves to the fullest. The river had the perfect amount of excitement, and every rapid was pure fun. The guides were super professional, attentive, and had a great vibe. Plus, the scenery was breathtaking. Definitely recommended for those looking for adventure, laughter, and a good dose of nature! 💦🚣‍♂️🌊 We would come back a thousand times over!
Air B — Google review
We had the most wonderful time on our Lower River trip with the kids. Our guide was a delight and we felt we were in good hands through the whole tour. It was a first time for most of us and everyone loved it so much we’re dying to go back. The river was beautiful and on the Lower River trip there was enough excitement to be fun while also having plenty of time to enjoy the view and chat with others on the boat. Highly recommended!
Lorraine L — Google review
Our family of 3 had an awesome time! Perfect amount of thrill and beautiful scenery. My 8 year old son was nervous at first but Bart, our guide, made him relax and he loved every minute of the river. Bart "nailed" the experience! We will definitely be back!
Brooke W — Google review
Soooo much fun!!! Must do!!! You realistically may fall in but you’ll be ok! Just a blast. They give you all your gear and there is a guide. We made a reservation
Melissa M — Google review
Absolutely 5 stars!!! We had an awesome time! It was definitely the highlight of our family vacation and we’re all talking about how we will 100% do it again! Our guide Lilly was awesome! All four of us were first timers and I am not a swimmer and she made the experience an amazing one for all of us. Thank you all for a great experience all around and for memories I’m sure we’ll be talking about for years to come! Can’t wait to join y’all again next time!!!
Valerie H — Google review
Booked thru trip advisor as one of the planned events on my Bday tour to Gatlinburg/ Pigeon forge. This was the best and most value eccentric tour I did out of 4. Courtney Shoemake our river guide made this a very fun and memorable experience. I do like the organization and extra thought put in here. All the guides have pictures on the wall with their venmos vs alot of places want u to hunt them down or give cash. Big thumbs up on that! Og I was scheduled for the upper pigeon River which has the lvl 4 rapids but the upper river was closed due to interstate flooding. Unlike apparently some other tours that just canceled ppl for upper river (according to other people I met elsewhere the next day) they just switched us to a longer stretch of the lower river. Perfect thing to do to enjoy the scenery and the water is nice and cool there's even a stretch they let u swim in. A good HR and half -2 hrs of occasional paddling. *Highly recommended to bring swimming trunks or swim gear and water shoes. Big parentheses on water shoes. You need something that can get wet but allow u to shove your feet in the nooks and crannies of the raft so u don't get knocked off. If not u can buy some on station ** Advisable to arrive very early . You need enough time to park, check in, get dressed, and get ready to get organized into the tour and catch the bus to the start point. They send an email about it the day of but if you're like me that's prob far too late of a notification to rearrange times. I think they're pretty flexible with it I arrived with about 15 min to spare so I'm pretty sure I got flexed into the 1:00 tour. There is a bathroom with a shower to get dressed in with stalls. They have lockers (paid for) but honestly if u have a phone water pouch your keys and phone can fit in there and u can catch the entire trip on the video if u secure it right. Otherwise a go pro or insta (waterproofed camera in housing) can prob catch the trip and scenes for u. They do have a picture package however it is 36$. And only 12 shots which ,depending on your raft orientation and seating arrangement, may not have many of u in it. ( I think with mine I could only clearly be seen in maybe 3) It is shot on one section of the river. You get a link to download via text or email. There was a food truck on site( don't know if it was a weekend thing or not) and it was great, bc Hartford was about an hour away from where I was staying, to have hot food after 2 hrs plus. *** Side note apparently most of the guides apparently stay near the base camp they have neat lil cabin with western names they get to have for 120$ a month as a guide! Nice I definitely want to come back and try the upper river with the same company as I had an amazing experience and hope other do as well. Almost makes hertz messing up my original trip last October worth it ( as this was not available at all in my Original planning)
Kevin J — Google review
We had a family of 6 and used SMO to do white water rapids for the afternoon. It was a gorgeous day in August (temp around 75). According to our fabulous and amazing guide Eleanor (get her if you can!!), the post hurricane river landscape has changed dramatically, but we still had a lot of fun! The SMO buildings are pretty much brand new (built in Feb 25) because of that hurricane as a result. Everything about the experience was great, and I would highly recommend it.
Daniel T — Google review
Had a great experience rafting with Miami as our guide. Staff were fun and competent, buildings were under construction following Helene but were coming along great. It was sad seeing the destruction TN faced in the hurricane, but good to see the area and businesses recovering. The river itself was awesome. We opted for the 2hr tour for ages 8+. Nothing too crazy but definitely enjoyable.
Jessica L — Google review
4.9
(2367)
•
5.0
(6041)
3299 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753, USA
https://smokymountainrafting.com/
(865) 430-3838
8

Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort - A Caesars Rewards Destination

Mentioned on 
+19 other lists 
Resort hotel
Fun & Games
Nestled in the picturesque mountains of western North Carolina, Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort offers over 1,000 spacious rooms with stunning views. The resort features a lively casino with 100+ table games and gaming machines. Guests can also indulge in spa treatments, work out at the gym, or relax by the indoor or outdoor pools.
Only went to casino and was very clean and fun. Was actually chwcked in by servers often and only hard part os parking for the casino between two hotels and not clearly marked when comong in from Gatlinburg Plus all the same color outside couldn't tell casino from hotel. But we walked 2/3 country blocks to where we had to go but still had a blast. Haven't been up to Cherokee in 15 years and so much change. Looks nicer but hope it's better for the natives.
Cheryl C — Google review
⭐ 3.5 out of 5 stars Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is a beautiful property surrounded by amazing mountain scenery and close to plenty of unique shops on the reservation. The casino itself is nice, and the employees were all friendly and helpful. We stayed overnight for the first time, and while our room in the Cherokee Tower was clean and spacious, it definitely felt dated and could use some redecorating and updating. The only rooms available at the time were smoking rooms, but staff went out of their way to treat it with ozone spray to help with the smoke smell, which was appreciated. It is quite a walk from the rooms to the casino floor, so be prepared to do a bit of walking. Food options are somewhat limited, but we really enjoyed Gordon Ramsay Burger, and our favorite meal was actually at the Asian noodle spot inside the casino. As for the gaming, the slot machines felt pretty tight and it was tough to win much on the tables. Still, we had a good time overall and will definitely be back for the friendly atmosphere and beautiful surroundings
Shawna — Google review
🎰 Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort – Real-World Review 🚗 Getting There: The Ride from Pigeon Forge Brace yourself for a high-responsibility, curvy ride through the Smoky Mountains. The drive from Pigeon Forge to Cherokee is scenic but winding, with elevation changes and tight turns that demand full attention—especially if you're coordinating a group or traveling with kids. Budget extra time and consider motion comfort strategies if anyone’s sensitive to road curves. 🏗️ Current Status: Under Remodel As of late 2025, the casino is undergoing renovations, which may affect layout flow and some amenities. Expect construction zones and temporary signage, but the core gaming and dining experiences remain operational. Staff are generally helpful in navigating the changes. 🅿️ Parking & Arrival - Plenty of parking—multi-level garages and surface lots make arrival easy, even for larger vehicles or groups. - Valet options available, though self-park is efficient and well-lit. 🏨 Hotel & Amenities - The hotel is massive, with multiple towers and a range of room types. Great for families, couples, or travel medics on rotation. - Rooms are clean, modern, and spacious—some with mountain views. - On-site spa, pool, and fitness center offer solid downtime options. 🍽️ Dining & Things to Do - Restaurants range from quick bites to upscale dining. Notable options include: - Brio Italian Grille – reliable pasta and steak - Selu Garden Café – buffet-style with Southern comfort staples - Lobby Café – grab-and-go sandwiches and coffee - Plenty to do beyond gaming: - Bowling alley and arcade for families - Concerts and events in the on-site theater - Nearby hiking and cultural sites (Museum of the Cherokee People is worth a stop)
Table P — Google review
My husband and I stayed here for the first time a couple months ago. When we pulled up it was beautiful at the front of the hotel. They obviously put a lot of money into it. The front desk area… luxury hotel. The rooms… 🤢 Okay, I can’t go that far. They weren’t terrible but they definitely spent their money on everything EXCEPT the rooms. Rooms are pretty clean, I guess. Hard to tell sometimes because the room was so outdated. For as much money as they surely rake in they can afford to update the rooms from the 80’s feel they have now. Maaaybe 90s. Called the front desk at one point because I spilled a drink. I cleaned it up as quickly as I could but the fabric on the chair worried me. I told them what happened and someone was supposed to come up. We finally got tired of waiting, on no one apparently, so we finally left. It was nice having food options 24 hours (although if I were gordon Ramsey I would NOT let my name be attached to that pizza place. 🤮) and the casino, well, it was a casino. Not the best I’ve ever seen but I haven’t been to many. There was a certain smoking area on a balcony that had a beautiful view. Overall, IF we ever decide to come back to the casino (because we will definitely be back to the area, it’s beautiful) we will stay somewhere else and walk there. Not worth the price.
Crowley P — Google review
I've been coming to this casino for many years. I'm glad to see that it has grown and improved the customer experience. I always feel safe here, and for the most part the bathrooms are clean. There are plenty of game options, and the player offers and rewards through the Caesar Rewards program are very nice. Hopefully, I will be able to use the flight and room packages that I have been receiving so by mail. I would like to be able to enjoy every one of the amenities that Harrah's has generously offered me as a player. The commute to the casino's location is long, but it is beautiful and scenic!
G M — Google review
We had never been to a casino before, but decided to give it a try. I don't see the appeal, honestly. All the games are just video games like you see in truck stops really...there were some table games but we didn't try those out. If you enjoy gambling that way, it's probably fun. But I'd pick Dave and Buster's over the casino any day lol the servers were nice, though, and there is a lot of other stuff inside besides the casino.
Mindy S — Google review
I rated the location as a 5 because it's the closest real casino tonus in Georgia. The rooms are fine nothing spectacular and they need a really good dusting especially above bed and curtains, also in hallways and elevator waiting area. The service is usually friendly and fast. The weekend rates are ridiculous and honestly no room is worth the weekend rates. The poker room is good and the noodles bar is delicious! The only restaurant at Cherokee that I would highly recommend is Brio, delicious entrees!
Alisa-Lily F — Google review
It pains me to leave this review but I feel I have to. I’ve been coming here with my family for years and within the last year the whole experience has went downhill. The rooms are dirty and falling apart. This trip out toilet constantly ran and the beds are visibly falling apart and the curtains are dry rotted and ripping. The food is expensive but in the past you’ve gotten a fair portion and it was delicious. Tried the Asian food restaurant and laid 18 dollars for 6 pieces of mediocre chicken and maybe a cup of plain white rice. All of this I could forgive but believe me when I say this place has the absolute tightest slots I’ve ever experienced. I’m more that happy to lose, I understand the casino always has the advantage but this is extreme. I’m well versed on slot rtp and the math behind the machines and even when playing low volatility slots often you will absolutely lose every time. Three trips in a row everyone losing no matter what and not seeing anyone win we are now forced to find another place to play. We love this beautiful location but the impossible gambling odds, the quite literally falling apart rooms and elevators and the extreme decrease in value in food is unacceptable. I hope all this changes for the better but until it does we will be finding another property in the Caesar’s franchise.
Shane K — Google review
4.3
(31626)
•
3.8
(4088)
777 Casino Dr, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
https://www.caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee?utm_campaign=gmb&utm_source=google&utm_medium=local&utm_term=CHE&utm_content=hotel&y_source=1_NDM2NjkyMC03MTUtbG9jYXRpb24ud2Vic2l0ZQ%3D%3D
(828) 497-7777
9

Museum of the Cherokee People

Mentioned on 
+72 other lists 
Museum
Art gallery
The Museum of the Cherokee People offers a comprehensive exploration of Cherokee art, history, and culture through its exhibits, digital films, photographs, and holographs. Visitors can delve into the rich history of the Cherokee Nation spanning over 13,000 years and gain insight into their resilience and inventive spirit. The museum provides interactive videos and captivating displays for an engaging experience. Additionally, group packages are available for larger parties with options such as Cherokee language courses and performances by the Warriors of Anikituhwa.
I visited this museum while visiting Cherokee. I throughly enjoyed reading all of the plaques and found them to be very informative. They have a nice gift shop to browse as well. There is a picnic area in front of the museum building, but unfortunately it was much too hot to sit there. If you are in the area, I would highly recommend going.
L C — Google review
Very nice Museum that teaches us about the amazing history of the Cherokee peoples and also the indigenous peoples that preceded them. The museum told us that they may be working towards a new museum in the near future and that some of the exhibits were either down or being updated. There was also a great gift shop as well. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We have much to learn and appreciate about the Cherokee people.
Joe C — Google review
Nice small museum that opens a window to past. Good opportunity to learn more about when Indians lost their land. They have gift shop inside. Entry fee is $15 per person. Free parking.
H O — Google review
Interesting aspects of Cherokee culture,language & lifestyle exhibited here in the museum.I wanted to invest time & money in the area so chose to spend approximately an hour inside. It was spacious had low lighting & easy to read descriptions of each display or artifact ; i.e 7 Cherokee clans or the wasps nest mask.I'm really into anthropology and found info on the peoples in this region fascinating but would have liked detail about life - choosing a childs name, education, marriage/partnership practices, funeral practices. Overall a really interesting visit I look forward to the installation of the forthcoming interactive informatio.Tha
Peter P — Google review
This is an excellent destination for learning about Cherokee history and culture. The exhibits are engaging and educational, offering meaningful insights into the heritage. The staff members are welcoming and approachable, and the gift shop features a wonderful variety of locally crafted items perfect for souvenirs.
Kat — Google review
A well designed beautiful museum pertaining to the Cherokee Peoples. There weapons, games and utensils that were used. Great displays that are very informative. Staff was very polite and helpful.
Jim C — Google review
I feel like describing this as a cool or interesting place to visit is disrespectful of the history represented within the museum, but if you're looking for a way to connect with the actual culture of the Cherokee people while visiting then this is it. You move from era to era, learning how the Cherokee nation lived, worked, and played then learn about the Trail Of Tears and the treaties written (and broken) 2 centuries ago. It is eye-opening and appalling but I think it's absolutely necessary for those of us living today to study and understand the mistakes our forefathers made so we never do the same. There are wonderful exhibits of arts & crafts and the gift shop is filled with goods from indigenous artists and shop owners. One exhibit has the Cherokee alphabet on push buttons so you can hear the pronunciation which was really neat. There are just a lot of great things to see here!
Rebekah B — Google review
Went to the Museum of the Cherokees and really enjoyed our experience. They have great exhibits with historical details to share with those who take the time to read the commentary. Great for all ages. Worth visiting and learning about their heritage and culture.
Anna H — Google review
4.6
(5441)
•
4.5
(1603)
589 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
http://motcp.org/
(828) 497-3481
10

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Mentioned on 
43 lists 
Railroad company
Museums
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a historic railway that offers scenic journeys through the picturesque countryside of the Great Smoky Mountains. The vintage steam trains depart from a historic depot and take passengers on pleasure trips to explore parts of the region not easily accessible by car. The routes showcase historic landmarks, rivers, lakes, and stunning autumn foliage during the right season. Passengers can choose from various themed journeys, including family-friendly excursions and adult-only trips featuring wine, beer, and moonshine experiences.
I recently had the chance to ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and it was an experience I will never forget. One of the highlights was the Moonshine Tasting experience, which included eight different moonshine samples paired with a BBQ lunch. I was not expecting much from the BBQ plate, but it completely surprised me. The meat was tender, the flavors were spot on, and all of the sides were just as delicious. Our guide made the ride even better by keeping everyone entertained with jokes, fun facts, and plenty of energy throughout the trip. The train offers both enclosed and open-air cars. If the weather is nice, I highly recommend the open-air option since there is no window glare in your photos and you get to enjoy the fresh mountain air. Between the stunning scenery, great food, fun atmosphere, and wonderful staff, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is absolutely worth the trip. I would love to do it again in a heartbeat.
Kierstyn M — Google review
Our family took the Nantahala Excursion Steam Engine on Oct 3rd and it was amazing. We definitely recommend the open air car if the weather is nice, like it was when we went. The views were great and the overall ride was a good length. The website said 4.5 hours total but we arrived back at the station 5 hours after we departed. It gives you time to take plenty of pictures and videos as well as time to just sit back, relax and enjoy the views. During the layover, we opted to grab lunch from the food car and eat at the picnic tables by the river instead of attempting to get food at one of the restaurants at the NOC. It looked busy and an hour isnt enough time to make the walk, get your food, eat and be back on-board in time. We really enjoyed the ride and highly recommend it.
BrianTami H — Google review
This was a great experience! We were in town for our anniversary and this was a perfect 1/2 day trip. We left at 1030 and saw some beautiful scenery along the way. Some interesting facts were shared with us such as the train wreck scene from The Fugitive was filmed on this rail line and we got to see the wrecked train, which is still there, along the way. We arrived in Dillsboro and had about 1.5 hours for lunch and looking around the small town. The ride back was fun because we saw things from a different perspective. Well worth the time investment! Highly recommend this if you like trains and wonderful mountain scenery!
Randy J — Google review
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad scenic railroad located in Bryson City is a wonderful experience that should be recommended for anyone and everyone that appreciates the beauty of the Smoky Mountains and Western North Carolina. A great ride for families, couples, individuals, and even large groups, age does not matter. Regardless of the time of year, you will have an opportunity to enjoy endless scenic views. The typical route will last roughly a total of four hours, and can be most enjoyed on an open air car, especially if you are able to secure seats on the south side of the train. This affords the better vantage point. Depending on your class of seats, light refreshments and snacks are available and sufficient for a picnic afternoon, but don’t expect to be wowed by food. The town of Bryson City is also an attraction in and of itself, and the railroad company has installed several attractions and shops for visitors, including a historic train museum. We selected the Nantahala Gorge route which afforded beautiful views of the Nantahala River, along with a great number of tributaries, lakes, and mountains. The one very glaring and very negative part of the experience is parking. Parking is an absolute nightmare, especially on days with more full trains. Despite an enormous staff on site to direct guests, there is either not enough parking to accommodate all visitors, or they have not efficiently crafted a method for directing traffic. We arrived on site 40 minutes prior to our schedule train ride (2 P.M.) and did not depart our car in a parking spot until after 2 P.M., despite having traveled less than 500 feet. Thankfully the train was held, but the delay was also unexpected and unnecessary. That would be the only variable preventing us from a second visit. Also, in case of inclement weather, there is no covered seating adjacent to the train station to accommodate visitors waiting to board the train.
April — Google review
What a great time!! We decided to get tickets in an open air car so we can get better views and for the picture opportunities and it did not disappoint. The views are spectacular especially sitting on the station side of the train going to the NOC. The bridges and and the lake views almost are worth the ride alone. We will definitely be back for another ride.
Aaron R — Google review
We reserved the 9am ride and it was very cold. We brought blankets and hot coffee. Conductors were very informative. Scenery was absolutely breath taking. Extremely relaxing. 1 hour stop was along the tracks with not much to do with the time given. Lunch was rushed with a mediocre bbq sandwich which was overpriced at a food truck located along a park. We didn't purchase the bag lunches. Other than that, the trip was a great experience. We rode in the open air caboose which allowed for the best pictures.
Thaidiva0814 — Google review
Magical ride through the mountains! We took the Tuskegee Expedition on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and it was an unforgettable experience — especially with the beautiful Christmas decorations! From the moment we arrived, everything felt festive and well-organized. The staff was cheerful, helpful, and really added to the holiday spirit. 🎅🏼🎁 The train itself was cozy and clean, with twinkling lights, garlands, and Christmas music playing softly in the background. The scenic ride through the Smokies was breathtaking — we even spotted some snow-dusted peaks! ❄️🚂 Snacks and drinks were a nice touch, and the narration about the area’s history made the trip even more enjoyable. It’s the perfect mix of holiday magic and mountain charm — great for couples, families, or anyone who loves a good Christmas experience. We’d absolutely do it again next year! 🌟❤️
KARLA G — Google review
We did the Sunday, 10-19-2026, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Train Ride in an Open Car from Bryson City, NC. Train ride and Great Smoky Mountains were awesome and beautiful. The uncooked cheesy ham and potatoes were nasty. The uncooked biscuits were awful. The fruit cup they bought at the local grocery story is what you feed kids. Overall the food was absolutely horrible and an extreme disappointment. If we had a do over, we would NOT have bought tickets in a car that included their nasty “fancy” food but instead bought tickets in a car that did NOT include food but we would have brought our own food or bought the box lunch of sandwich and chips. Surely they could not screw that up. Plus if cold, most of those type of sandwiches are served cold. I thought the stop toward the end at their food truck was just for them to make money since most people threw away the nasty food and had to buy food at their food truck. The stop to me was very very bad PR - public relations and corporate greed. It really put a bad light on the overall experience. Overall the nasty food and their stop for more money in their pockets did not overshadow too much the awesome beautiful train ride and the Great Smoky Mountains. We would do again, but differently.
Bob C — Google review
4.5
(8010)
•
4.1
(3749)
45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA
https://gsmr.com/tickets/
(800) 872-4681
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11

Bush's Visitor Center

Mentioned on 
6 lists 
Museum
Cafe
Nestled in Dandridge, TN, Bush's Visitor Center offers a fascinating look into the origins of America's most famous bean company. The center features a museum chronicling the history of the family-owned business since its inception in 1908 and showcases their secret recipe for baked beans. Visitors can enjoy an interactive self-guided tour with friendly staff providing useful information along the way. The tour concludes at a well-stocked gift shop and a delightful family cafe offering delicious meals at reasonable prices.
I don't know that I would travel very far out of the way to go here, but it is a great little road trip stop. The museum was interesting and interactive for a variety of ages. The gift shop had lots of fun bean swag and knick-knacks. We were really tempted to get canned t shirts and the egg salt and pepper shakers. The cafe was out favorite part! We were told we had to try the chocolate pinto bean pie and enjoyed it quite a bit!
Elizabeth L — Google review
A Bean-Lover’s Dream! This place has all the lowdown on the world’s best baked bean company! The museum may be small, but they’ve packed it full of cool exhibits and fun facts about the history and process of making Bush’s famous baked beans. There’s even hands-on stuff for kids, making it a great stop for families. The parking lot is huge, and everything is easy to access. Don’t miss the gift shop, they had cans of beans I’ve never seen in stores before! If you love Bush’s, or just want a quirky and fun roadside stop, this is a great way to spend an hour. So much bean-packed goodness in one place!
Sam — Google review
Mom wanted to treat us to the restaurant and go through the museum. I honestly had my doubts about a bean factory museum. I was completely surprised at how much of a good time it was. It's really great and very interesting. Interactive, informative, fun, well laid out and a very friendly staff. My daughters loved the scavenger hunt and prize they got. The scale that tells you your weight in beans is pretty cool. The video was interesting and informative. This place was fantastic. The exit through the gift shop is an opportunity to see every type of bean know to man and I bought several. Lot's of neat items and the usual merchandise. Hats, shirts, cups, kitchen items, and of course beans. Not only was this place a great time but the restaurant was fantastic as well. I highly recommend a visit and definitely bring the kids. Great place to spend the day.
John G — Google review
Pleasantly surprised at how interesting it was to learn about the history of Busch’s Baked Beans. The grounds are beautiful and the museum is very well done and like I said lots of interesting history about how they started and how they did things back then and do them now. They also had some hands on stuff for kids. Shop was full of cool stuff too. We ate at the restaurant and it was good, I had their special, which was a taco salad and it was loaded with meat and a little bit of lettuce (would have liked a little more salad with the meat). The others had the Busch’s chili pie and they said their was good too, but not anything to rave about. The service was very good and the desserts looked amazing. Our friend got a milkshake and he said it was delicious. Definitely worth the visit.
June M — Google review
While in Pigeon Forge we took a side trip about 12 miles out to Dandridge, TN to the Bush Beans Museum & Restaurant. We thoroughly enjoyed this. Helps to be a bit of a nerd. We were amazed at the process, from field to table. We love family stories that show success from humble beginnings. I love the use of family photos & stories of early life, to the modern marvels that help to feed millions. There’s a neat souvenir shop, and a very nice restaurant. The whole place was very clean & well maintained. Our daughters are jealous they weren’t with us! Looks like another visit is in our future. If for nothing else, go for the restaurant. I don’t believe you will be disappointed.
D-Ray — Google review
Fun little stop along our journey. The museum is very well done and interactive. Very nice selection in the gift shop. Diner next door serves a delicious pinto bean pecan pie. I accidentally left my stickers at the diner and Gina is sending them to me, which is very much appreciated.
Philena S — Google review
Loved this completely free museum. Had a great time learning about the Bush family and their humble beginnings and the transformation into what we think are the best baked beans around. Never realized they have 120 different products of fruits, vegetables, chili starters and bean varieties. It was cool to learn about the process from finding the beans to obtaining them on site, cleaning, cooking and canning. I had no idea of the process I learned a lot. I truly believe this company has high morals and integrity, I used to always buy them and will continue to knowing the employees are treated well and the process of their canning is of the highest standards.
James M — Google review
Museum and general store are such fun. Store has VERY nice things and was fun shopping around. Unique gift items. Staff is super sweet. Grounds are beautifully decorated for Fall. Restaurant was not great, however. The chicken fried steak was dry and the gravy tasted of raw flour and was really pasty. The fried apples were overly sticky and sweet, like canned pie filling. Not good at all. Hot dog with chili was just okay. Bun was dry and hotdog, while big and juicy, was really salty. The chili on top was tasty though. The bowl of chili and grilled cheese were both very good. We would not eat here again but the museum and shop we will visit again! Staff was very welcoming and nice.
Kristi M — Google review
4.8
(6161)
•
4.5
(1240)
3901 US-411, Dandridge, TN 37725, USA
https://www.bushbeans.com/en_US/about-us/visitor-center
(865) 509-3077
12

Forbidden Caverns

Mentioned on 
13 lists 
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Forbidden Caverns in Sevierville, Tennessee offers an educational tour of an underground river and cave formations. The hour-long guided tour takes visitors through the subterranean abode, showcasing sparkling formations, towering natural chimneys, grottos, and a clear underground stream. The paths are illuminated with colorful lights and equipped with handrails for easy exploration. The temperature stays just below 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so it's recommended to bring warm clothing.
LOVED this cave! The tour is a little less than an hour long and there isn't anywhere too steep or hard to access so it's a great spot for toddlers or those who may struggle with steeper inclines. Everything was beautiful inside. It's well worth the money to see a your. Only at one point did they shut off the lights and I was surprised that none of the kids in our group got scared. Everywhere else was well lit with lights to showcase different special areas of the cave. This is a must see!
Merriel B — Google review
An absolutely amazing experience. We travel cross country pretty often and decided to stop here on our way home which was an excellent choice. The time that was taken was perfect. Not to long, not to short. The lightening is great so you can see everything around. Our tour guide Ace was knowledgeable and could answer any/all questions. He did a great job, and made the experience that much better. Bravo, to not just a great establishment but passionate workers that care and enjoy what they are doing.
Erin C — Google review
Nice and cool in the cavern. Guide was informative and friendly. Lady at the front desk could smile a bit more but it was the end of the day and she made it clear everything would be closed when we returned from our tour. The entire staff had their personal belongings in hand at 450pm when the tour ended. It made us feel a little uneasy as if we were bothering them. Bathrooms across the street were also closed. I would suggest at least keeping them open until closing time at 5pm so people can use them after the 45 min tour. Just a suggestion.
Sherry M — Google review
A guide toured experience that lasted just over an hour I’d say. Our group had a chance of two all the way to 65 and it wasn’t that hard of a walk or anything. You take a lot of breaks when the guy is saying things about specific spots. You go 200 feet down into the cave and a couple people have to be brought back to the front because they couldn’t handle it. It was a really cool experience, probably the best out of our trip. Highly recommend.
L R — Google review
Caverns was great to tour. Took about 1 hour. Guide CJ done a good job with our group. We arrived at 10am and had to wait 30 minutes before tour to bring. So bring some patience, we thought the number of people in the entire group was too large. Seemed over 40 people. Overall I would recommend.
Sam M — Google review
This is a fun way to spend an hour and see some really cool geologic formations. The staff is very knowledgeable about the cave, it’s history and it’s geology. Very reasonably priced. I would definitely recommend visiting.
John V — Google review
If you have never explored a cave before, go here. It was fantastic, my family and I were a part of a larger group and we had a blast. The guide was great, very knowledgeable with a DJ voice that was fun to listen to. The cavern and its history was fun and entertaining. It is a short drive to get there but worth every mile. I highly recommend this as a place to visit with your family. The tour takes an about an hour and has a few steep grades but I was able to make it with a weak knee. Don’t miss this.
RVPeak — Google review
We absolutely loved our visit to Forbidden Caverns. One of our favorite parts of our trip to Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg! The staff is very friendly and welcoming. Our tour guide was great and the group size wasn’t too big. The tour through wasn’t as strenuous as the other caves we’ve visited in the past. The temperature was cool and comfortable, no need for a sweater unless you’re cold natured. I wore a long sleeve shirt and leggings which was perfect and I’m a Floridian. Make sure to wear athletic shoes as some parts are potentially slippery. We wished we had brought cash to tip our guide but will be sure to revisit next time. Thank you!
Amanda Y — Google review
4.7
(3118)
•
4.4
(1367)
455 Blowing Cave Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876, USA
https://forbiddencavern.com/
(865) 453-5972
13

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Mentioned on 
+136 other lists 
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a vast marine facility in Gatlinburg, open 365 days a year. It houses over 10,000 marine creatures, including sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and penguins. The aquarium features interactive exhibits like the Discovery Center for hands-on experiences with animals. Visitors can also learn about the aquarium's Systems Control area that manages millions of gallons of saltwater. Additionally, it offers a glass-bottom boat ride experience.
My family and I took my son here so he could have some fun on our trip and he sure did here. He loved the selection of sea/ocean animals and the interactive games they had throughout the facility. We order tickets beforehand on TripAdvisor (we got them in a bundle) which saved us a good bit of money.
Savanna B — Google review
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is an amazing spot for both kids and adults! It’s much bigger than you’d expect, with tons of exhibits to explore. One of the highlights is the moving conveyor tunnel, you’re surrounded by sharks, rays, and all kinds of sea life as you glide through. There are interactive displays, fun photo ops, and even a penguin walk parade that’s a must-see! The penguins are adorable and it’s a unique experience you won’t find at most aquariums. A great place to bring the family, unwind, and learn something new. Definitely worth the trip!
Sam — Google review
Had a blast, loved the small aquarium setting, pleased to know they're sponsored by the San Diego Zoo and Conservation, seen things here that we haven't other aquariums like the sea dragons magnificent interesting creatures! We will definitely be returning here with our family's, and Gatlinburg was amazing in itself. Oh and the Dragon room was very informative with great history as well as several live of modern day dragons.
Jeremiah P — Google review
The glass bottom boat ride is a must! We had a good time, but for the price of admission we did expect some more sea animals. The shark lagoon area was our favorite; we went through a few times seeing something new each time. The parking garage behind the aquarium is the most accessible area for parking.
L C — Google review
Wife and I went on a Thursday morning. Same time as hundreds on 2md and 3rd graders on a field trip. While it was fun watching kids see and learn about nature the chaos with all these screaming and running kids brought our enjoyment down a notch. The tunnel under the tank is incredible to see. Penguins never disappoint. Great location and a lot of other Ripley attractions and within a 10 min walk max. If in Gatlinburg I suggest you go here.
Jon Z — Google review
Very good small(ish) aquarium. Definitely a must see for the kids and sea life enthusiasts on your trip! Fair warning, they are a bit pricey, but it's not horrible. They have a daily parade of penguins at 1:15pm as well. HIGHLY suggest though that you go early right when they open to avoid the crowds!
Alex H — Google review
Definitely worth the visit. A little crowded, but it was just before a holiday week. So much to see. Some interactive exhibits. Huge play area halfway through for kids to climb around and get a little energy out. Couple eatery places inside for a drink & snack.
Amie H — Google review
Loved it! Many new attractions even since 2024. The fish all look great. It's very clean. Expect to spend at least an hour or 2 taking your time walk through. There is a kids play area and a food court near the end.
Sharon H — Google review
4.6
(42806)
•
4.5
(15188)
88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
https://www.ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-aquarium-of-the-smokies/
(865) 430-8808
14

Sugarlands Distilling Company

Mentioned on 
+64 other lists 
Distillery
Food & Drink
Sugarlands Distilling Company is a popular moonshine maker located in downtown Gatlinburg. The rustic, industrial-chic distillery offers indoor and outdoor tours, tastings, and live music. Visitors can enjoy a full seasonal cocktail tasting led by an expert TasteMaker, featuring samples of moonshine, whiskey, and more with tasting notes and cocktail ideas.
The Behind the Stave experience was a relaxed way to experience Sugarland's products. Jeff, our great bartender and host let us know that we would have an opportunity to experience new and unique cocktails in their distillery's speak easy, and that did not disappoint. The speak easy lounge has nice ambient lighting and mellow and loud jazz music so that conversations could be held without having to raise your voice. Jeff prepared 3 full sized drinks for us, two with moonshine and the third you had a choice of moonshine or whiskey. The first was a unique and a pleasant surprise, the second was delicious and a great brunch cocktail, and my third choice was a classic and smooth whiskey drink. The vibe overall was relaxing. Jeff was pleasant, and entertaining, all while not taking away from the relaxed atmosphere. Also, if you are a whiskey fan and want to pour and label and seal your own bottle of Sugarland's whiskey, that is an option you can purchase when booking. For the attendees who purchased it, they seemed very happy with the results and it was a neat process to observe. I do have two suggestions for the Sugarland Team,: 1) At the time of my reservation in early October, 2025, the package was advertised as including 4 drinks. However, Jeff let us know that prior customers requested full size drinks instead of 4 small drinks, so this change to three full drinks was reasonable. I suggest that the website be updated to reflect this change so visitors will know what to expect; and 2) While the website at the time of my booking stated a factory tour was included, there wasn't one at the 8:30 pm tour that I participated in. I would suggest updating the website to remove this because frankly focusing on the speak easy experience alone was worth it. Overall, these suggestions do not take away from the great job by Jeff or from this being an enjoyable way to be introduced to moonshine and trying local whiskey.
Denise S — Google review
Gage is wonderful and kept the tasting going with his enthusiasm and energetic personality. His knowledge about the different products is unbelievable. You can tell he really loves his job and big on promoting not only the products but the company as well.
Ira W — Google review
We just left this establishment and had an ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL TIME!!! We had Judge Abbey for our tasting and she "held court" above & beyond fabulous!!! She was very funny & knowledgeable! She gave great ideas for mixing the different flavors of moonshine once home! We would (and WILL) come back, hoping we get Abbey to make our tasting humorous, more fun, and soooo enjoyable!
Mom 8 — Google review
We signed up for a free tour of the distillery and it was so awesome to learn about how they make their moonshine!! The $5 tasting was also great and Josh was a funny bartender! This tasting and the staff were more engaging than other tastings we tried and places visited.
Virginia N — Google review
Out of all the tastings we did, this was the most fun and we liked the samples the best! Payton was such a fun bartender and kept us coming back each day. They also have a bar in the back where you can try some of the flavors they don’t serve during the tasting!
Mia T — Google review
The guy we had during our tastings was hilarious, and you get a good amount to sample too. We bought a few jars to take home because we got a good deal.
Joe K — Google review
We had amazing experiences at all 3 tasting options!! DK went above and beyond to make sure the Behind the Stave and Roaming Man tours were amazing. If you can catch Rob Ham for a tasting- do it!!
BraceYourself C — Google review
$5 for 12 unique samples of Tennessee Moonshine. I was referred by a couple that I met on a horseback ride. “When in Tennessee, one must try Tennessee whiskey”! The samples were delicious, but the best part was our server Ben! He was hilarious and made the experience memorable. Highly recommend it and you’ll love the $5/pp coupon that can be combined with anyone else in the group.
William W — Google review
5.0
(30297)
•
4.9
(30474)
805 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
http://www.sugarlands.com/
(865) 325-1355
15

Dollywood

Mentioned on 
+89 other lists 
Amusement park
Water & Amusement Parks
Dollywood, owned by Dolly Parton, is a theme park offering a variety of attractions such as waterslides, rides, and live music shows. Visitors can also enjoy family fall activities in the surrounding area including wildlife sightings at Cades Cove loop and cave exploration at Tuckaleechee Caverns. The theme park is known for its Southern cuisine with popular dishes like fried chicken and catfish.
Great day out a Dollywood! The park is super cute, not too big and plenty going on for every age. We didn’t get to see any shows but we did ride the rides and loved them. We got to the park for 0930 for its opening at 1000 and it was relatively quiet and nice to walk around. Unfortunately a lot of the rides didn’t open until 1100 onwards. Lightening Rod, the star of the show rollercoaster was closed all day (apparently a common theme!) but luckily reopened at 1800 so we got a ride in. The park got very busy in the afternoon with 75-80 min queue times but 15-30 mins in the morning. Food in the park was delicious and well priced for a theme park. Queues for food later in the day had long lines. $25 for parking is a tad steep on top of your park ticket but most parks are now doing this sadly. Phone signal in the park is very poor meaning the Dollywood app is rendered near useless with a quite a few guests complaining about this on the ride back to the car park. Overall though would highly recommend!
A J — Google review
Dollywood is one of those rare theme parks that feels like more than just a fun destination — it feels like a warm welcome. From the moment you step through the gates, there’s a beautiful blend of Smoky Mountain heritage, wholesome entertainment, and genuine hospitality that makes every visitor feel like family. What stands out the most is how thoughtfully designed everything is. The park is incredibly clean, the landscaping is beautiful, and the music — whether live or playing softly in the background — adds a special touch unique to Dolly Parton’s world. It's a place where thrilling roller coasters, peaceful craft demonstrations, and mouthwatering Southern cuisine all live in perfect harmony. The rides are top-notch and offer excitement for all ages, but even if you never stepped on a coaster, you’d still have an unforgettable day. The shows are heartfelt and professional, the artisans demonstrate real mountain craftsmanship, and the food is absolutely delicious — especially anything fresh-made in front of you. Another major highlight is the staff. They are genuinely friendly, patient, and happy to help, which makes the entire experience feel relaxed and inviting. You can tell the park takes pride in treating guests with kindness — just like Dolly would want. Whether you come for the thrills, the culture, the music, or the memories, Dollywood delivers a complete, heartfelt experience that stands out above most theme parks. It’s a place that celebrates joy, family, faith, and Appalachian tradition — and you leave with not just photos, but feelings you’ll remember.
Austin L — Google review
A family friendly amusement park, with lots of thrill rides and AMAZING shows. We went during the Christmas celebration, and the lights were breathtaking. The Christmas in the Smokies show had a live orchestra, and the singers were outstanding. Going in November, on a weekday, made for super short lines. My family went on all the rollercoasters, and some of them 4-5 times. My daughter and my favorite coaster was Fire Chaser. It had a super cute theme, and is a less intense coaster. My son and husband liked Flying Eagle, but it is definitely a coaster made for thrill seekers. Our longest wait was for cinnamon bread, and it was well worth the 20-30min wait. Lunch was typical theme park food quality, but it might have just been hit and miss for us. There is something for everyone, and I really appreciated the family and faith focus.
Shona M — Google review
Almost no lines when we went. Everyone was pleasant, do note that parking is $25 on top of the tickets. Food is priced like most theme park ($20 for an order of chicken tenders and fries with a soda). The establishment was clean and staff were helpful. The older staff were far more energetic and enthusiastic than the younger her ride operators. I do recommend doing the train ride as it gives a good tour of the park and is an experience in itself.
Nicholas J — Google review
Such a great time! The whole park was decorated for Halloween and was so charming once it got dark. The rides rocked, I particularly loved Lightning Rod, pictured here in my review. It’s the fastest rollercoaster in the world and it felt that way! I also particularly enjoyed Barnstorm; a massive swing that gave a real thrill. Overall the park is themed wonderfully, fun to explore, and definitely worth visiting again and again.
Liam F — Google review
Dollywood is fantastic! This was our first visit but won't be our last. Great holiday decor up already in mid-November made it feel like the holidays. We enjoyed it more than we thought we would. Great selection of roller coasters, enough to satisfy any enthusiast. Also a good selection of medium and lower intensity rides for families and all. Carnival games with good prizes. Good food choices. Do NOT miss the Cinnamon Bread (available at the bakery as well) and do not wait until the end of the day to buy it as the lines get long. Highly recommend buying tickets in advance and arriving early (about 45 minutes to an hour before park opens). Arriving too late means parking far away and a long walk or tram ride to get into the park. It's a spread out park across hilly terrain so you're going to walk a lot.
Andrew P — Google review
1st time visiting. One of the nicest amusement parks we've visited. Very clean and they've paid alot of attention to details in the decorating. Majority of the staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Plenty kid-friendly areas and rides, but also, plenty of extreme thrill rides as well. Not to compare, but a Disney-like experience, in a much more laid back, down-home, relaxing atmosphere. Very well done, we'll be back. Highly recommend.
Tony C — Google review
We absolutely loved our visit to Dollywood! We got there early and parking was very easy. We went to the Lightning Rod coaster first, what a rush! The train was delightful. Everything was beautiful, the hills were covered in fall leaves. That cinnamon bread is to die for! Every coaster was exciting and thrilling and did not make me feel sick. They felt very high end. I giggled a lot on the fun fire brigade ride. It was so quarky and silly and caught me by surprise. The Christmas decorations were plentiful and it felt like every structure was lit up. The Dolly Experience was so heartfelt abs inspiring. It felt like she was expressing who she was and sharing rather than showing off. The pink sparkly Christmas decorations in that area were so unique and every girl's dream. The gift shops had mostly decently priced items that were much more affordable than other theme parks. The staff were all friendly and it was clean. Dollywood knows exactly what their brand is and it doesn't feel like they are trying to compete with anyone.
Liz T — Google review
4.6
(58124)
•
4.3
(19192)
2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, USA
https://www.dollywood.com/
(800) 365-5996
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16

The Island in Pigeon Forge

Mentioned on 
32 lists 
Amusement park
Water & Amusement Parks
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a vibrant and playful destination that offers an array of unique shops, casual dining options, and thrilling amusement rides. Perfectly situated for those exploring the Great Smoky Mountains or nearby attractions like Dollywood and the Titanic Museum, it serves as an ideal base for your adventures. The area hosts numerous annual events such as the Mountain Quiltfest and various festivals celebrating music, food, and culture throughout the year.
What a great place to shop and just walk around! Very walkable! It was very clean and well maintained. We really enjoyed the moonshine distillery store and the escape room! There is so much to do there for family and adult fun. You will have a good time!
Christopher T — Google review
Nice public area. A good mix of stores, restaurants and attractions. Very clean and well kept. The fountains are fun to watch, especially when the scheduled shows occur. Restrooms are kept clean and well stocked. Free parking is nice with trams bringing you from the parking lot.
Lucas K — Google review
🌟 The Island in Pigeon Forge – A Beautiful, Must-Visit Spot Visiting The Island in Pigeon Forge is always a great experience. It’s clean, well-maintained, and feels a bit more upscale compared to the main strip. Whether you’re with family, friends, or just exploring solo, there’s something for everyone. At night, the whole place lights up beautifully—it’s honestly one of the prettiest spots in town. There are tons of shops to browse, fun activities to try, and plenty of food options to satisfy any craving. It’s a great mix of entertainment and relaxation, perfect for both adults and kids. One highlight is the SkyFly ride—super fun and definitely worth checking out. It’s immersive, exciting, and one of the best attractions on site. The whole area just has a more polished, classy vibe compared to the rest of the strip, and that makes it stand out. If you’re in Pigeon Forge, The Island is 100% worth the visit. Highly recommended!
TeckJunky — Google review
My pictures are from the gigantic wheel. It's really easy to get on, I definitely recommend to get the unlimited tickets, I promise you that you won't get tired of the views and the experience. Staff was really nice. There're plenty stores for gifts, memories, pictures, candy, food. It all in one place. Rides for kids and adults. The atmosphere was fantastic. Thank you for the experience!!!
Antuan M — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Five-Star Review: The Island in Pigeon Forge The Island in Pigeon Forge is hands-down one of the most fun, vibrant, and family-friendly spots in all of Tennessee! Whether you’re visiting for a day or stopping by every night of your trip, this place has something for everyone. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere feels lively and welcoming. The shops are amazing—boutiques, specialty stores, treat shops, toy stores, sweet shops, and unique little spots you won’t find anywhere else. You can stroll for hours and still discover something new each time. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs, snacks, clothing, or handmade goodies, The Island truly delivers. And the fun things to do are endless! The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel gives you stunning views, the fountains are mesmerizing (especially at night), and the rides and attractions keep both kids and adults entertained. There’s also delicious dining everywhere you turn, from quick bites to full meals, and you can relax in the rocking chairs around the fountain between adventures. If you’re looking for a place that’s clean, entertaining, and full of energy, The Island in Pigeon Forge is a must-visit. I’d give it more than five stars if I could!
Christopher S — Google review
The Island is always a pleasure to visit. I love walking around and checking out all the shops. This recent visit was especially fun because there were dinosaurs! My best friend and I decided to do the dino "scavenger hunt" and we had tons of fun spotting them all. The bonus gift at the end was nice too!
Renee R — Google review
Fun and diverse. It is a little crowded. However, there is so much to do. Free parking and a nice ambiance, dinosaurs included. Lot's of shopping to do from food, clothes and typical mountain stuff. Lot of entertainment and dinning for all tastes and budgets. Keep in mind that everything is paid individually, so it adds up quick.
Jonathan A — Google review
A great place to shop or just walk around! I loved the jurassic theme! The Dino exhibits was so neat! And don’t even get me started on the fountain lol. I LOVE fountains and this is one of the best!
Kayla J — Google review
4.7
(60546)
•
4.5
(12371)
131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, USA
http://islandinpigeonforge.com/
(865) 286-0119
17

Titanic Museum Attraction

Mentioned on 
+123 other lists 
Museum
Specialty Museums
The TITANIC Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge offers an immersive experience dedicated to the famous ship. Shaped like the Titanic itself, the museum features recovered artifacts and interactive exhibits that change annually, focusing on different aspects of the passengers and the ship. Visitors receive a ticket representing a real-life passenger at the start of their journey. Inside, there are replicas of staterooms and dining halls with stunning architectural details matching those of the original Titanic.
The Titanic Museum Attraction was absolutely fascinating! The exhibits are beautifully presented and very informative. I loved how interactive the experience was — from touching the iceberg to walking the grand staircase. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and everything was well organized. It’s both educational and emotional, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Pigeon Forge!
Martha H — Google review
It's a nice experience if you're into historian events or if you enjoyed the movie (as they have an entire section devoted to it). We missed a couple of things while on the tour, but it still didn't seem like it was that big. It took us about an hour to finish the tour. Overall, though, it's a nice museum and gives you a very detailed look at the events that occurred.
Russ M — Google review
My mother and I really wanted to come here for our family vacation and it was okay. Definitely didn't learn anything I didn't already know about the ship however there were a few interactive games you could participate in if you like to. When we order tickets, you had to select a time slot (which is thought maybe that would mean not many people), however we could barely move along the ship and had a awful time seeing everything we wanted to see. Beside thats no complaints
Savanna B — Google review
Such an amazing museum! This and another in TN, if I remember correctly, are privately owned. So informative with artifacts about the ship, it's crew, and the people. A great stop if you are wanting to do something in the area. Self guided or you can download an audio tour. The hosts know thier history and the many people that traveled on the ship. How long g can you keep your hand in 28 degree water? You can try it. The ice cream shop is wonderful.
Daniel — Google review
OMG!!! This was a great experience!!! Sooo informative. You even get to touch the 28° water to feel how cold it was. As you enter you get a "Boarding Pass" which contains info of one of the passengers. At the end of the tour you will see the names of the passengers etched on a blue wall and there you can see whether you survived or not.
Rosalind D — Google review
My family and I really enjoyed visiting this museum. It offers a good amount of history and gives you a taste of what it was like to be on the boat. For parents that have little ones, this is not a good place for them. This caters more to young adults and up.
Michelle L — Google review
Awesome place to visit if you love the movie and are interested in artifacts and just everything about the Titanic in general. It was over an hour walk through.. very cool!! The outside of the building is amazing in itself and there's lots of things to take pictures of right in the area...
Country G — Google review
This was a great experience. It is a bit expensive but it is worth it. This is geared more towards teens and adults. A lot of reading and actual belongings of some of the passengers. Also, there is a lot of Bios about some of the people aboard. You are given a card of an actual passenger. Towards the end you can see if you survived or not. Great photo ops on the grand staircase, and outside. The iceberg area is very cold and you can feel what 28° water feels like. You can also stand on the varying degrees onthe ships main deck to experience how hard it was to hang on.
Sabrina S — Google review
4.6
(23278)
•
4.6
(11295)
2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, USA
https://titanicattraction.com/
(865) 868-1197
18

Tuckaleechee Caverns

Mentioned on 
33 lists 
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Waterfalls
Tuckaleechee Caverns is a must-visit destination, offering a fascinating underground experience estimated to be millions of years old. The 1.25-mile roundtrip adventure into the cave showcases millions of formations, including the impressive 12-foot-high stalagmite known as the Totem Pole. Visitors can also marvel at the massive room that could almost fit an entire football stadium and witness Silver Falls.
Hello...hello....hello! My son and I went to Tuckaleechee Caverns this month while visiting the Smoky Mountains National Park. We weren't able to see Crystal Cave in Sequoia National Park, so these caverns were on our to do list. The history of the caverns was fascinating! Those little boys were brave to explore with only kerosene lanterns back in the day. The tour took about an hour and a half. Our guide was excellent and thoroughly explained the different formations. The Big Room is amazing! We also saw rivers and a beautiful waterfall. The caverns are 58 degrees, so it's a nice way to beat the heat. Wear a light jacket if you get cold easily. The paths were well lit and maintained. We would recommend wearing good sneakers or hiking boots. We would highly recommend visiting Tuckaleechee Caverns!
Starr L — Google review
Such a cool experience! Saw the billboard while driving to our campsite at Elkmont and decided to check it out. We didn’t buy tickets in advance, and only waited a few minutes to get on the next available tour. Our guide was great! (I think her name was Aliyah?) She made the tour a lot of fun with her commentary. It was pretty strenuous with a lot of stairs and uneven ground. It was slippery in some parts where the ground was wet. Be prepared- wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The views are definitely worth it. The caverns are beautiful on camera but truly breathtaking in person.
Madison W — Google review
It was a wonderful experience—it’s not every day you get to see a real waterfall inside a cavern. Absolutely beautiful! The cave is filled with fascinating ancient formations and an underground river. At the end of the tour, we even got to taste fresh spring water straight from the waterfall—it was crisp, mineral-rich, and delicious. The story behind this place is truly captivating.
Alesya K — Google review
The coolest cave we have ever been in. Loved that we got to hike up and down a bit. It made it feel very adventurous. Conway was the best kind of tour guide. Great with the kids. Very patient with the entire group. He made the tour so fun with his humor and willingness to answer all of our questions. Including the selfy he took while taking our family picture. Be sure and tip him extra. Highly recommend
L J — Google review
Definitely one of the top caves I have been to and I have visited a lot in different areas across the USA. This is well worth the visit! We had a great tour guide (Ellie) and all the staff was helpful and friendly. Use caution if you have limited mobility. There are a few sections you have to be able to crouch low and climb up/down uneven stairs. I think this adds to the charm of the cave because it has not been overly developed but it does mean you need to be stable, balanced, and have decent mobility. Overall I highly recommend!
Stephanie A — Google review
It's a great concept. The caves themselves are really, really cool. It's awesome and the tour guide (Brandon I believe) was very knowledgeable and fun. The issue is with the groups. I feel like there needs to be a limit on group size because it gets insanely packed with 4 families of 4+ people including young kids. The tour felt very rushed because at each stop everyone was stopping and taking their time getting pictures and not being considerate of anyone else trying to get any. I went with my fiance as an engagement celebration and we got 2 mediocore selfies because no one would let us get a chance to get any good ones, everyone was coming in front of us or behind us or kinda pushing us out of the way. We had a very kind woman offer us a picture twice, the first time we didn't get a chance and the second in front of the water fall I was about to hand her my phone and a family butt in front of me and my partner and we didn't even end up getting one. We were right behind the tour guide the entire time and still didn't get much time or picture opportunity so I can't even imagine being at the back. Overall not a very good experience for us and we're both very disappointed and upset. I hope they limit group size. The walkways aren't that big in some areas too. Our experience was not worth the $50+ we spent for us two.
Al P — Google review
Caverns were cool. Staff is super friendly. Our guide was very knowledgeable. Steps to get back to the surface were many and very steep but was worth it. If you have breathing or heart problems I recommend staying above ground as coming back out is very strenuous
Michelle S — Google review
What a great experience exploring the wonders underground. The tour guide was very informative throughout the tour. Beautiful well lit walkways, watch you head in certain areas Along the path. Huge open caverns and unique formations abound. See complete darkness and one of the tallest underground waterfalls. You’ll love the history of the caverns and how it was discovered, great experience visiting here.
Gene B — Google review
4.8
(4798)
•
4.7
(2971)
825 Cavern Rd, Townsend, TN 37882, USA
http://www.tuckaleecheecaverns.com/
(865) 448-2274
19

Cades Cove Visitor Center

Mentioned on 
+9 other lists 
Visitor center
Tourist information center
The Cades Cove Visitor Center is a must-visit stop on the scenic loop road in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the region, with exhibits on local animals, mills, and Native American tribes. The center also features a working gristmill and historic buildings that showcase life in the Appalachians. Situated near picturesque valleys and mountain vistas, this area is popular for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
Bathrooms and a water fountain and a little store with friendly staff. Nice place to stop half way through the scenic route. Gifts and some chocolate you can buy. Little village like place you can walk as well.
Abe — Google review
Cool experience and worth a visit. If you have the time and visit during the summer months. Take advantage of the near by waters for a relaxing day of swimming. Pack a picnic for you & your family and take your time hiking and exploring this area. Go early for a chance to spot some bears....
Tony M — Google review
Plenty of parking and restrooms available, which makes it a great place to stop during your Cades Cove drive. Just a heads-up there’s no cell service out here, so plan ahead. The gift shop has lots of cool national park knickknacks, stickers, and souvenirs. There’s also plenty to see and do as you walk around, including historic buildings and beautiful open fields. The mountain views are absolutely stunning. A must-stop if you’re exploring the area!
Sam — Google review
The visitor center is full of information about the history of Cades Cove. The store has so many books about history and nature. This is a good place for souvenirs too. The grounds are a walk into the past from the home to the barn, grist mill and more. It’s a very peaceful and relaxing place for a walk.
Dan P — Google review
We were there Friday, Oct 14, 2025 around 11:30 am. It was an 11 mile bumper to bumper snail’s pace drive. No wildlife other than a few deer, scenery wasn’t nearly as beautiful as the scenery on the drive to get there. We recommend driving up there, then turn around and drive back…plenty of places to pull off for pics and amazing views. Skip Cades Cove, very disappointing and took forever to get through because drivers were literally stopping foe minutes at a time, we have no idea what for.
Ruth T — Google review
We've been the smokies 4 times now and have made a trip here every time and it never gets old driving through the cove hopefully one day we can get down there when the leaves have changed we did get to see a mama bear and 3 cubs but it was quick
Brad C — Google review
We've been avoiding this place due to traffic. While it was definitely Beautiful going 2-3 mph bumper to bumper is not the best way to view Cades Cove. We even went on Tuesday.
Josh E — Google review
Cute little place to visit half way through the scenic loop drive. There isn’t much there but great to see the old buildings from years gone by, visit the store and have a leg stretch.
A J — Google review
4.8
(5664)
•
4.6
(670)
5686 Cades Cove Loop Rd, Townsend, TN 37882, USA
http://www.smokieslife.org/locations
(865) 436-1200
20

Zoo Knoxville

Mentioned on 
+72 other lists 
Zoo
Zoos & Aquariums
Nestled in Knoxville, Tennessee, Zoo Knoxville spans 53 acres and is home to approximately 800 animals from various parts of the world. Visitors can marvel at elephants, lions, giraffes, chimpanzees, tigers, gorillas, and bears among other creatures. The zoo offers an enriching experience with educational talks by zookeepers and engaging activities for kids such as mini-train rides and carousel adventures.
We arrived a little after opening and were pleasantly surprised to find plenty of parking and very few crowds. It was the perfect time to go — we got to see lots of animals up close without the usual wait or hustle. The zoo is very family-friendly with tons of fun things for kids, including a splash pad, carousel, and interactive areas that kept our little one entertained the entire time. Everything felt clean and well-maintained, and the staff was friendly and helpful. Overall, we had a great experience and would definitely recommend it for families or anyone looking for a fun day out in Knoxville!
Hello E — Google review
Wonderful experience, despite the dreary weather on the day we came. Animals seem very happy and well cared for. All Zoo staff were extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. I brought my camera and snagged a few good photos. ❤️ Can't wait to go back!
Miranda H — Google review
One of the best zoos in the area, I volunteered there years ago as a kid and this year returned for the first time in decades. The changes were mindblowingly amazing and gorgeous. I loved seeing the old portion of the zoo turned into a playground and petting zoo. When you go make sure you don’t miss the animal encounters they are breathtaking and informative.
Feisty F — Google review
Very impressed with this zoo. The animals had amazing and large habitats and are very happy and well taken care of. I wish we had gotten in earlier in the day to spend more time there. Also, there are many little cafes to get food or a snack. Just a beautiful zoo!
Lisa H — Google review
Oh wow! We had an amazing experience at Zoo Knoxville! Great zoo, with friendly staff, and neat experiences!! I was able to feed a giraffe, a tortoise, and some budgies all in the same day! (I will be able to die happy now). The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable about the animals. The enclosures seemed clean and there were enrichment items for the animals in many of them. Lots of great plaques with information about the animals. 10/10 recommendation from me for a fun experience in Knoxville!
Hailee T — Google review
We had a BLAST exploring the extremely well kept grounds at Knoxville Zoo! The artistic design and clear views of animals had us settle on leaving with a membership. We can’t wait to put into good use and are looking forward on being back for the new immersive experience opening soon! Thanks for making sure family fun days are done up RIGHT, Knoxville Zoo!
Abbie K — Google review
My son and I spent multiple days at the zoo and we did the VIP Rhino Experience, which was absolutely worth the money!, and enjoyed every minute we were there. We had the opportunity to interact with multiple staff that worked at the zoo and had such great conversations with them. We also did the Tortoise Feeding which again was well worth the money and the staff there was so knowledgeable about each of the tortoises from the tiny ones to Tex to those “visiting” while there enclosure is being worked on at their zoo. The staff at the Rhino Experience was not only knowledgeable, but had great personalities, as did the rhinos! Ranger and his brother Mylo were very gracious to let us interact with them and thank you Ranger for letting us pet/ love on you! There was so many great people that we met that were also visiting the zoo and happy to share facts back and forth with my son and I. We hope to be back at some point this year (we are from Florida). Thank you all for making the trip wonderful! We visited on both the weekdays and on Saturday.
Rebecca B — Google review
We planned our trip for the first week of April, probably not the best time to visit. Lots of animals missing and several construction projects ongoing. In my opinion, the zoo could use some upgrades, so the construction is understandable. Altgough more transparency would be nice. It would have been respectable for the website to explain what to expect during this time. This zoo is also lacking many of the bigger animals that you are expecting to see. I am from Indianapolis and the zoo there is truly amazing, maybe my expectations were too high. On a brighter note Ashley was amazing!! She took the time to talk with us about our disappointing experience. She also explained about some of the upgrades and new animals coming. I am excited to see this. Planning a return trip in the fall!
Adam — Google review
4.5
(12241)
•
4.1
(1407)
3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr, Knoxville, TN 37914, USA
https://www.zooknoxville.org/
(865) 637-5331
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21

Market Square

Mentioned on 
+62 other lists 
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Market Square has experienced a revival, along with the emergence of the Urban Wilderness and South Knoxville. Visit Knoxville's evolving marketing strategy and the city's growing reputation as a food scene have also played a role in its transformation.
4.5
(2994)
Knoxville, TN 37902, USA
22

Museum of Appalachia

Museum
Education center
Smithsonian-affiliated museum featuring pioneer buildings & exhibits of regional history & culture.
A trip well worth it. We love historic sites, and this site is full of history. The site has 38 historic buildings, including a cabin where Daniel Boone lived and one where Samuel Clemons (Mark Twain) lived. There are thousands of artifacts on site. There’s a gift shop and a nice breakfast and lunch bar. We took hours touring the site.
Edward H — Google review
We had the best time here! Started our visit with lunch at their restaurant which was delicious Southern cooking. They even have homemade cakes and sourdough bread. Look up their menu online and prepare to get hungry. After lunch we set off on our tour of the grounds. Just follow the map that you are given -everything is numbered. Our kids were given little maps where you stamp as you go along for a prize at the end. They admitted that they loved it and learned so much. I love how the daughter of the founder of the museum lovingly hand wrote many of the relic descriptions. As you went along on your self guided tour, you were greeted by various residents (chickens, roosters, peacocks, ducks, pigs, goats etc). They roamed the property freely. I had no idea how cool this place would be!! Their gift shop had so much to offer. This place is worth stopping!! We have passed it up for almost ten years on our way to/from the Smokies. What dummies! Don’t make the same mistake-go, and go hungry (but before 2:30 pm). We will be coming again!!
Tania B — Google review
Loved this. So much to see here. We spent half a day walking the grounds and exploring. So much to see. You can tell the ppl who founded this place have a real appreciation for the Appalachian people and their culture.
David S — Google review
This museum is like a walk through history specifically for homesteading and agriculture. There is a museum and two out buildings that have a wealth of artifacts from days gone by. There are also numerous other buildings that show what life was like 100 years ago. The tour on most days is self guided so I guess the admission fee goes toward paying for historical fees or something. I really enjoyed all the animals and especially the peacocks that roamed the grounds. This would be a fantastic venue for a wedding or family reunion. Definitely worth seeing and plan to stay for several hours.
Hebertchef — Google review
A very special and interesting museum. I spent an hour and a half there and really enjoyed every moment. It was fascinating to see the cabins and learn about the history of each one. The highlight was in the souvenir shop when a group of musicians played Appalachian instruments, it was absolutely beautiful.
ענת ח — Google review
I came expecting to be there an hour, ended up spending 4. Clean museum that truly told the story of the every day Appalachian person, along with the famous and well noted citizens. I especially appreciated the equal treatment given to every day people and the rich and famous. Large displays for wood carvers, crafters and musicians alongside founding fathers and military heros. I was really hoping to learn about the culture of Appalachia during my visit to Tennessee and this museum captured it beautifully. The museum is expansive and feels friendly, personable, like your neighbor or friend was the curator. Got a taste of great Southern cooking at the café for a great price. Very highly recommend.
Teri K — Google review
Incredible collection showcasing Appalachian culture from the ancient to the everyday to the great American contributors who came from the hills and bettered us all by it. Best "snack shop" I've ever been to. Full dinners. Homemade.
C.T. T — Google review
Pretty cool. There's a self walk tour and a bunch of old time cabins, mills. There's a walk through museum. There are goats, peacocks galore, and a cute shop in the main house area.
Rachel T — Google review
4.7
(892)
•
4.5
(374)
2819 Andersonville Hwy, Clinton, TN 37716, USA
http://www.museumofappalachia.org/
(865) 494-7680
23

American Museum of Science and Energy

Mentioned on 
+14 other lists 
Science museum
Museums
History museum
The American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge, Tennessee is an educational institution that offers interactive displays focusing on energy, particularly nuclear power. As a Smithsonian affiliate, the museum provides an engaging way for visitors to delve into the city's unique history and explore the innovative advancements achieved over the past 75 years. The museum features interesting exhibits and also offers bus tours of historic Manhattan Project sites such as the X-10 Graphite Reactor.
A hidden gem of Oak Ridge, TN. Museum is small, one afternoon is enough time to see it all. Quality, design, and layout are all excellent. Honestly haven't seen that quality of design and scientific explanation outside of a Smithsonian. Very Highly Recommended.
Julie P — Google review
We had a great time on the tour! It was very informative, and the host very knowledgeable. My grandmother worked on the Manhattan Project at Oak Ridge, and it was great to learn more about what her life would have been like there. It was only $15 for a 3.5 hour tour, and definitely worth every penny! I would highly recommend this tour, just be sure to register in advance, as they only do a few tours a week. Thank you for a great day!
Kim M — Google review
Our family loved this tour. It was more than fairly priced. The tour guides, Janet & Jerry were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. All three stops on the trip provided unique insight into various aspects of the Manhattan project and history of Oak Ridge.
Shawna O — Google review
This was our first visit to the museum, and it turned out to be a fascinating place to learn about the Manhattan Project — America’s World War II nuclear program — and to see many original artifacts from that time.
Alex B — Google review
We were visiting in the area and looked forward to attending this museum. We were not disappointed. It was very educational, and a lot of fun. Well we did not attend with children, I think there were enough interactive activities that any child over the age of eight or nine would have enjoyed it quite a bit.
Laura T — Google review
I learned a lot about our Energy history connected to Oak Ridge TN. An interesting display on the Sustainable cleanup of the former sites like K25. There was a great display on the Presidents and their contributions to our Science, Technology and Energy futures. The staff was very helpful answering all my questions.
Mark T — Google review
Overwhelming amount of information but very well done. Definitely worth the admission fee. My favorite part was the gizmo in the children's area that had balls rolling through it. They have a neat gift shop too, full of nerdy things. 😁
Kimberly M — Google review
Very informative and interactive. The volunteer at the front desk was very knowledgeable. Lady at the gift shop was very helpful. Overall a great museum. The only downside was one employee in the James Webb area sitting on her phone playing a game loud enough that you could hear it throughout the back of the museum.
Melissa H — Google review
4.5
(1637)
•
4.5
(539)
115 E Main St, Oak Ridge, TN 37830, USA
http://www.amse.org/
(865) 294-4531
24

The Lost Sea Adventure

Mentioned on 
3 lists 
Tours
Nature & Wildlife Tours
Lost Sea Adventure is a cave tour and boat trip attraction that offers visitors an underground lake to explore. The cave network is well-maintained and the guides are knowledgeable about the formations, making for an interesting experience. The walk up is not too bad and the tour offers stops for breathers, which makes it more comfortable for those who are not used to walking long distances. The boat ride is also very cool and something not often seen in tourist attractions.
Don’t skip this tour! We drove from Chattanooga to Sweetwater for The Lost Sea Adventure and we do not have any regrets. (We did take our two children that are ages 8 and 12.) Rylan, our tour guide, was incredible. He was humorous and engaging with our group. This tour is slightly fast pace, but that is noted at the beginning of the tour as well as the steep downhill & uphill walk. They do have breaks on the way back up. We truly enjoyed learning the history of the cavern throughout the tour. Once you arrive to the lake, you are given plenty of time to view and take pictures. The lake is beautiful with very active rainbow trout swimming around your boat. Again, the way back up is steep in some areas but not challenging by any means. Don’t skip the tour! (I’m not a photographer.)
Samantha B — Google review
This is a 'cute' building. It feels very inviting to enter, and all of the staff are very pleasant. It's clean and has a lot of nice things to buy. The cave itself is nice and the underground lake is absolutely gorgeous and the highlight of the place. That being said, our guide walked very fast and that did put somewhat of a damper on our enjoyment of the tour. Also, we were not expecting how much walking uphill there was so if that is a problem for you, you may want to reconsider visiting this cave.
Just J — Google review
Neat adventure with good staff! Maddox was my tour guide, he could do commercials, but Logan was boat tour guide. Both of them were well versed and able to add some jokes in for fun. Good job guys! Gift shop staff were friendly and helpful as well. Pics not same as in person! Appreciate overall experience 🌻
Bambi H — Google review
This. Was. Incredible. A huge shout out to Lillian for guiding us and teaching us all about this amazing chunk of history!! The cave was walkable and areas to sit if you need to. The hardest part was walking back up the steeper incline from the boat ride - but it was so worth it!! So very interesting to learn about the history and the think that people discovered that and explored it before it was made walkable and safer, with nothing but an oil lamp!!
Mally B — Google review
This is literally a hidden treasure. It was about a 2 hour drive for us, but really glad we went. It was very crowded so glad we had purchased our tickets online. Our guide was very knowledgeable, but a fast talker. It is definitely a hike and you are warned when purchasing tickets and the hike to the lake was a lot. I have knee problems and definitely felt it after, but so glad I made it. The boat ride in the lake was really cool. Definitely worth the ride to Saltwater, Tennessee.
Chistine — Google review
Super cool place to visit. Everyone should experience this once in their lifetime. The guide told us some very interesting stories about the caves history. Be prepared for an uphill walk back out of the cave. This place is well kept and very historical. You should check out this place and check it off you bucket list!
Phillip A — Google review
While planning my trip using ChatGPT, this gem was suggested as one of our stopping points. I didn’t see a lot of roadside signs on the interstate or even in town (which is a destination must), so I’m so glad it was recommended. The whole experience was amazing. Our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable and provided great insight to the history of the cave and lake. The check-in host took the time to ensure that each guest was physically capable for the walking tour as it was steep, slippery, uneven and at times, strenuous. We are two ladies between 60-90 years old so we took our time and easily managed the terrain. We thoroughly enjoyed it! We went in the off season and it was still really busy, so recommendations are highly suggested.
Christine C — Google review
If youve never experienced a cave experience. This is it. If you have curly to wavy hair and you plan on straightening it that day, dont. Lol its humid in the cave. It's a mixture of cool air and humidity. But the experience alone is really neat. They also have other places to explore. They have a blown glass shop, a general store, and a little gift shop. Looks like they may be putting in a restaurant.
Cassie M — Google review
4.7
(8078)
•
4.2
(1387)
140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874, USA
http://thelostsea.com/
(423) 337-6616
25

Cumberland County Playhouse

Mentioned on 
22 lists 
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Theaters
Located in the picturesque hills of Middle Tennessee, Cumberland County Playhouse is a non-profit organization dedicated to showcasing the arts as an integral part of rural America. With a focus on opera, dance, and theatrical performances, it offers entertaining and educational plays featuring professional actors. Drawing over 80,000 visitors annually, it stands as a prominent cultural hub in Crossville. The playhouse boasts three stages for hosting concerts, productions, and dance programs.
We went with the Lions Club PDG Association of Tennessee to see 9 to 5. The performers were fabulous. The facility was great. Overall, it was a great outing. Would recommend.
Clifford S — Google review
Such a fun time. My husband and I went to 9 to 5 for a fun weekend. The cast were excellent and the musical was fantastic.
Rhonda J — Google review
Great community (but professional) theater. Have attended many shows there and never been disappointed. They do musicals especially well. We buy passes every year. Worth a trip to experience superb live theater.
James R — Google review
Always a great time at CCP. The show, the sets and the actors always bring the A game to community theater. The signature cocktail for each show is a little something extra and fun we have been enjoying. The value of the shows far exceed the monetary price making a show an experience you can feel good about.
Vanessa M — Google review
Been going here for years, one of my family members used to star and choreograph in many shows, so I virtually grew up here. Today, we went and saw hairspray, and the amazing show hasn’t left my mind. Every single element of the show was just absolutely perfect and it occurred to me I’ve never left a review on here so I figure today was a good day to do so. Can’t wait to see 9 to 5 soon!
Aidan A — Google review
Firstly, the venue is beautiful and the productions are always amazing ...but, the actors are so talented! Normally we go to the musicals -BUT, this time we just went to "The Cottage" and the comedy and timing were absolutely the best!!!! Comedy is tough- and they exceeded!!
Kat H — Google review
Yesterday was our first visit to this theater. Oh my, we saw 9 to 5 and were blown away by the top-notch orchestra, acting, singing and dancing. We did not expect the professionalism of this troupe and enjoyed the performance immensely. We shall return and often!
Lisa N — Google review
Got to see Elf the Music on Saturday afternoon. WOW such a great show! Every play we have seen is top notch!
Clay J — Google review
4.8
(436)
•
4.7
(484)
221 Tennessee Ave, Crossville, TN 38555, USA
http://www.ccplayhouse.com/
(931) 484-5000
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26

Fall Creek Falls

Mentioned on 
+15 other lists 
Waterfall
Nature & Parks
Fall Creek Falls is a stunning 256-ft waterfall located in a forest, offering an overlook with a trail leading down to its plunge pool. As one of the most popular state parks in Tennessee, Fall Creek Falls State Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The park features waterfalls, virgin hardwood stands, gorges, cascades, and streams. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming at the waterfall, crossing suspension bridges, and camping under the stars.
Fall Creek Falls was worth our visit; we hiked down to the base which they call a strenuous hike…it is. There are a lot of rocks, twists, steep areas but worth it if you can. There is a lookout if you cannot make the hike down.
Jon H — Google review
So glad we stopped♡ This spot came highly recommended by my family who live in Tennessee. The walk down to the bottom of Falls Creek Fall is worth it. Make sure you have on good hiking shoes and take your time.
Renee P — Google review
Great waterfall! If you’re feeling frisky you should take the trail down to the base of the falls. It’s labeled “strenuous “ for a reason though, it’s going to be the hardest half mile hike you will ever do! The way down is easier but you have to watch every step due to the slippery rocks. Once you get near the falls there is a rock pile that some people turn back at because it’s hard to climb. But once you’re over it you’ll see flat trails the rest of the way to the falls. Well worth it to go to the end! Hike back uphill is hard but honestly less dangerous because it’s easier to see where you’re stepping. I’m recommending you pick up some beer and keep it in the car on ice, you’ll thank me for the tip!
AMVMC L — Google review
Fall Creek Falls is absolutely stunning! The main waterfall is breathtaking, and the views from both the top and base are worth every step. The trail down is marked strenuous, but it felt just right , manageable and fun. The water was a bit cold, but refreshing, and my daughter loved every moment of it. Perfect for families who enjoy nature, hiking, and a little adventure. Be sure to bring good shoes, and don’t forget your camera. The scenery is incredible! Definitely one of the best spots we’ve visited here in Tennessee.
Mayjie I — Google review
Awesome waterfalls, views from the platform are amazing but if you are able to go to the bottom of the fall you will be awarded with spectacular views and experience. Hike is strenuous and steep on the way back.
Kaja S — Google review
👍👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️👍👍 It doesn’t get much better than this place. What an amazing state park. This is our first visit to a Tennessee State Park and the bar has now been set high. The grounds are amazing and the hiking is PERFECT. We did two days of hiking and saw all the falls. They are BEAUTIFUL!!! There is so much to do here from hiking to eating to shopping and much more. Felt very welcome and taken care of. Will definitely be back in the future. Thanks again Fall Creek Falls State Park and Tennessee for the great memories and experience. 5 STARS ALL THE WAY. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Scott B — Google review
Great waterfall with an amazing 270 foot drop. You can hike around the rim which is easy or take the strenuous hike down to the base of the falls. That hike is tough but worth it, I did it at age 57 and made it so quit crying and just do it! Base of the falls is worth seeing, you’ll need decent shoes because the rocks are slippery. You’ll have sore legs the next day but you’ll be glad you did the hike down.
Foxx T — Google review
I ran the Falls Creek Falls 50K trail race here a few years ago and it's really a beautiful state park. The trails were great. Wonderful waterfalls and cabins on the lake with great views.
William L — Google review
4.8
(534)
•
4.5
(625)
Tennessee 37367, USA
27

Burgess Falls State Park

Mentioned on 
1 list 
State park
Nature & Parks
Burgess Falls State Park boasts of four waterfalls that cascade into a large pool via foot trails with varying levels of difficulty, ranging from moderate to strenuous. The park is incredibly beautiful and also features hiking trails, a butterfly garden, a playground for children, and a store in close proximity. Visitors are encouraged to visit the park at least once as it is an absolute must-see destination for waterfall enthusiasts.
Beautiful area. Three major falls, Upper, Middle and the biggest, Lower. Not too bad of a hike to visit all three and one smaller one above the Upper Falls. Some steep areas, but nothing terrible. Would not recommend for anyone with walking issues. Construction going on while I was there. Limited parking.
MITCH C — Google review
So cool. Parking was full so waited a little to get a spot but not too long. There’s a path to walk to the falls or you can take the side of the mountain natural path. We went that way with our two little kids it was pretty strenuous but really fun! There’s a few places to see the falls. Beautiful
Lindsay R — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A hidden masterpiece of Tennessee’s natural beauty! Burgess Falls is one of those rare places where nature feels like art in motion. The cascading waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs, create a scene so breathtaking that it almost feels painted. The trail leading to the main falls is scenic and peaceful, offering plenty of spots to pause, breathe, and soak in the serenity. For photographers and artists, this place is pure inspiration — it’s one of the best locations in Tennessee to draw or capture portraits. The lighting through the trees, the mist around the falls, and the natural textures make every frame look picture-perfect. Whether you’re into nature photography, sketching landscapes, or just enjoying a peaceful walk, Burgess Falls will not disappoint. There’s ample parking space and it’s well-maintained, making your visit smooth and stress-free. You can even enjoy camping nearby, which turns your day trip into a beautiful overnight adventure under the stars. Every sound of the rushing water and chirping birds reminds you why nature is the best artist of all. Burgess Falls isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience that reconnects you with nature’s creativity and calm. A must-visit for every nature lover and art enthusiast!
Aditya A — Google review
What a beautiful falls and hike. You can walk up to the river and get good pics. Then there is a gorgeous overlook about 1/2 mile walk, some incline but all gravel. It’s totally worth it. Stunning views!
Brett T — Google review
The creek and 3 waterfalls were so beautiful! The trails were medium skill level. I only say that keeping in mind those who may have ankle or knee issues. The height of steps on the trail are different heights and lots of tree roots. Parking is HORRIBLE though, hardly any parking!!!
Shine R — Google review
This is one of my favorite park. I really love the trail but can be little busy during weekends and summer. If I get a chance I will surely visit again.
Archana N — Google review
A must visit! Easy hike down the length of the trail and see all four waterfalls. Go after a rain and you will be treated with heavy flows of water with roaring sounds only nature can offer. 20' Cascades: A small set of cascades near the start of the trail. 30' Upper Falls: The second waterfall you will see on the trail. 80' Middle Falls: The third waterfall, which is a significant drop. 136' Lower Falls: The tallest and most dramatic waterfall in the park
Jesse C — Google review
We loved this state park. The falls were gorgeous and the hike was amazing. It was an easy hike and with the fall colors it was soo pretty!
Grace D — Google review
4.8
(4411)
•
4.5
(508)
4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583, USA
https://tnstateparks.com/parks/burgess-falls
(888) 867-2757
28

Cummins Falls State Park

State park
Nature & Parks
Historic site of 2 former mills is now a popular spot for swimming & hiking.
Our family had an incredible experience and afternoon at Cummins Falls State Park. THE WATERFALL!!!! Absolutely amazing and beautiful. Here is our experience…..The hike down to the river was short and very easy for us. Then the hike through the river to the waterfalls was very straightforward. There is a trail for most of it, but you will get wet near the end. You definitely want to bring water shoes. Then the waterfall and pool are absolutely breathtaking. We all swam and played in the water for hours.
Peter H — Google review
I visited Cummins Falls today and had a great time. It’s a fun spot and not too far from town, which makes it a convenient little getaway. You do need a permit if you want to go down and swim, but since I was just doing a quick in-and-out visit, I skipped the permit this time. The walk to the overlook was only about half a mile, and the view of the falls was well worth it. Definitely a spot I’d recommend checking out if you’re nearby.
Jerry S — Google review
Beautiful waterfall! Has several ledges, you can walk in/ on it... Great swimming hole!!! The hike up the gorge to the waterfall is pretty strenuous (requires a permit), but well worth it! Wear shorts and water shoes if your going down in the gorge, you have to wade up the creek, you will get wet. Their is an overlook trail that is easy and pretty short, that overlooks the falls. It has a nice view, and some tables to picnic on or rest. The overlook trail is handicap accessible. Has a park office to get permits, and souvenirs, or a drink.
Jay H — Google review
It was a beautiful park and an amazing experience. However, the trails are very natural, so I use the word trail loosely. Just be sure to wear the correct footwear for on AND OFF the trail. Some sturdy water shoes are highly recommended. I do wish someone gave us a map before entering but I highly enjoyed it nonetheless. And if you happen to have a medical emergency while visiting, the park rangers will be there ASAP, no matter your location which is mind blowing given the terrain.
Tracy C — Google review
This place was absolutely amazing!! Trails are great and the beautiful waterfall was sooo worth the trip. We will definitely be going back here next summer to try the other trail options. Highly recommend to all outdoor enthusiasts.
Ervin S — Google review
This place is a great way to spend an afternoon relaxing on a trail, walking down the river and of course visiting the falls. They also have a nice overlook with wheelchair accessable parking to enjoy the view.
Chas H — Google review
Hiking is new to so finding easy to moderate trails are important to me. Love this park as I was able to walk to the overlook to the waterfall very easily, I was even able to take an extra short hike and I made it! I love that I saw so many families here, encouraging their kids to be outdoors and enjoy nature.
Angela K — Google review
I have seen so many waterfalls and luscious forests in my day. This gorge that leads to this particular waterfall is abundant in different species of fish. So many. Even in the swim pool. That is awesome. We loved it so much. Its worth paying for the entry to make sure it stays clean and noone gets hurt. The rangers were all friendly and seemed like the type of people it felt like you already knew somehow lol. Wonderful day with my daughter and dog. The switchback on the way out can be a tad rough if you’re a beginner or haven't walked on an incline lately. Other than that, take some shoes with tread, your favorite snack and leave not trace. Life jackets of many sizes once reaching the falls.
Nina B — Google review
4.7
(4647)
•
4.5
(685)
390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN 38501, USA
https://tnstateparks.com/parks/cummins-falls
(888) 867-2757
29

Stones River National Battlefield

Mentioned on 
37 lists 
Park
Sights & Landmarks
Stones River National Battlefield in Murfreesboro is a 570-acre historic park and cemetery that marks the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. Visitors can explore marked trails, visit the visitor center, and take self-guided tours with maps available at the center. Free guided tours are also offered on weekends, including ranger-led walks or car caravan drives through the vast battlefield. For a unique experience, visitors can join Saturday morning bicycle tours during summer and early fall.
Pretty immersive experience. I can clearly see how the landscape would give an advantage in battle. Especially around the "Slaughter Pen" area. I expected a lot less and ended up spending almost three hours touring the multiple exhibits and using the phone guide system. There are 5 designated stops for parking and touring and multiple trails that are marked and clear. Ticks are out in abundance today but other than that this was a great little history buffer.
Michael R — Google review
Nice piece of history here. I always enjoy learning about these places and arrived as they were starting a reenactment. Nice little museum and gift shop. There is also the cemetery across the street that is quite humbling in my opinion. Check it out sometime!!
Shaun P — Google review
Nice (somewhat interactive) museum, super friendly and knowledgeable staff, there’s a short video clip to watch that explains the story of the grounds, and there are trails to explore the property. Some (walking) paths are dirt while others are (drivable) paved. I did not utilize it but there is also audio along the driven tour.
Terah L — Google review
This place has it all! You can dial on your phone and listen to a narrative of each of the areas that are clearly marked with a number and you get to hear the story of what happened at that area...... battlefields , cannons, unusually shaped stone walls within a forest where people fought and died, a visitor center with helpful workers and a gift shop. They had information on my relative who fought in that battle. There's also a large cemetery across the street of the soldiers who didn't make it through the battle.
Lisa D — Google review
Very nice visitor center and very informative attendees. Cost is free. You can drive or walk the main tour. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Chad H — Google review
What a delight! Loved this location and hope to take more visitors in the future. My child did the jr park ranger course and we learned so much. Well maintained aside from some of the exhibits not working.
Jae H — Google review
What a beautiful battlefield. When you look at the historical significance it might be hard to fathom what happened here. Thousands of men lost their lives fighting for something they believed in. The grounds are well kept and very organized. The route is drivable with parking set at the different spots. Many opportunities to explore and take pictures. Immerse yourself in Americas history
Jonathan E — Google review
Open to the public. The guide signs were very helpful and the grounds are well kept despite the city growing up around them.
Jen L — Google review
4.8
(2748)
•
4.6
(834)
3501 Old Nashville Hwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA
http://www.nps.gov/stri
(615) 893-9501
30

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

Mentioned on 
+60 other lists 
History museum
Museums
Located just outside of Nashville in Hermitage, Tennessee, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is the former home and resting place of the seventh U.S. President. The beautiful whitewashed mansion offers a glimpse into Jackson's life through exhibits and tours, showcasing original family belongings and furniture. Visitors can learn about his military successes, controversial presidency, and life on the plantation where he enslaved over 95 people.
Really great place to visit while you're in Nashville. So much history in this town. It's unbelievable. The Andrew Jackson house was something else and seen all of the artifacts that he himself used or that they were still from that time. Era is just crazy to think. There's wallpaper on the wall that's over 200 years old. They're still original flooring inside the home as well. The grounds are massive and there's so much to visit outside of the Mansion. The guides were knowledgeable and did a great job. If you're into history in doing things like that, I would definitely book your visit. Well worth money.
Jasmine J — Google review
The grounds are beautiful. The walking audio tour is great since it gives you the ability to go at your own pace. There is plenty of benches along the way so you can rest if needed. The guided mansion tour was nice the mansion is beautiful no pictures are allowed inside though. The museum is big and full of information and artifacts. All of the staff was super nice and offered to take pictures.
Tonya — Google review
Had some time before our flight so we took advantage and visited Hermitage. Grounds are fabulous what you imagine a large southern estate to be. The mansion is modest and functional. Seeing Jackson tomb was impressive and reflective. Highly recommend a visit and take the time to learn about history and see it visually. Unfortunately we didn’t have enough time for a tour inside the mansion or a visit through the museum.
Marco L — Google review
This is a really cool historical site to visit. The grounds are beautiful and well-kept. The house is a gem that’s been beautifully preserved, with many of the original furnishings and even wallpaper still intact. There’s a wagon ride that we didn’t see mentioned in the material, so keep an eye out for it and its schedule at the back of the mansion. They also have slave cabins and a section dedicated to the history of slavery.
Eddie H — Google review
If you love US history, this is an excellent place to visit! Beautiful home, beautiful garden and it is beautifully preserved! We went on a weekday early in the morning just as they were opening up a d did the tour. Excellent tour and a must visit!
Blue T — Google review
Great historic place, bummer the rooms are blocked off and you are only allowed a view in and no photography. Some places were closed do to construction. Large grounds recommend comfortable shoes. Friendly knowledgeable staff. Worth the trip would be nice to have a lower weekday rate.
Anthony W — Google review
President Andrew jackson lived here for twenty years of his life. His descendants lived here for another forty years. it is fascinating to see the home of a former president. The excess and the luxury are quite breathtaking to behold. Despite his prestige it is a sobering reminder that he did not have many of the luxuries that we take for granted today. Refrigeration, running water, bathrooms and more. Also was fascinating to hear about his collection of slaves. A list was presented of their names, their families, and their job titles. after emancipation , it was cool to know that some of them stayed on the property to work for money. Photos are not allowed inside. My photos include a view of the front from the outside, a panoramic view of one of the exhibit rooms, a poster of an early painting of him, and a photo of his and his wife's actual graves. Go and learn not only about the man but also about your own country!
Dave F — Google review
It is a wonderful experience to learn about the history of not only this president but slavery in America and America in governance itself. I learned so much in their self-guided tour after visiting the mansion and the Western frontier of America in the early 19th century. I really believe that school groups should go and study this mansion and the history behind it. I should note the tour guides are exceptional, especially Steve who took the time to show me and my mom apart of the mansion's history that I couldn't find.
Brandie C — Google review
4.7
(5693)
•
4.6
(5910)
4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, USA
https://thehermitage.com/
(615) 889-2941
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