On this page
About Tennessee
Tennessee stretches from the Appalachian Highlands in the east — where the Great Smoky Mountains National Park draws over 12 million visitors annually — across the rolling Middle Tennessee plateau to the banks of the Mississippi River in the west. Nashville, the state capital, has emerged as one of America's hottest cities, combining a thriving live-music scene, acclaimed restaurants, and booming bachelorette party culture with genuine Southern hospitality. Memphis anchors the west with Graceland, Beale Street, and world-class barbecue. Chattanooga bridges the gap as an outdoor adventure hub perched above the Tennessee River gorge, while Knoxville serves as the gateway city to the Smokies.
- Capital
- Nashville
- Largest city
- Memphis
- Population
- 7.1 million
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- US Dollar
- Time zone
- Central Time (CT); Eastern Time (ET) in eastern counties
Explore Tennessee by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Tennessee
The 8 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Graceland
Country Music Hall of Fame
Beale Street
Ryman Auditorium
Tennessee Aquarium
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Tennessee Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Tennessee, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Tennessee
- Days 1-2Tennessee city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Tennessee
- Days 1-3Tennessee comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Tennessee, departure
Where to stay in Tennessee
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $110–$190/day
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $230–$390/day
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $490–$1020/day
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Omni Nashville Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comThe Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comGaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
Check rates on Booking.comThe Peabody Memphis
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Tennessee
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Husk Nashville
Prince's Hot Chicken Shack
The Catbird Seat
Loveless Cafe
Central BBQ
Cozy Corner Restaurant
Getting around Tennessee
Tennessee has three major airports: Nashville International (BNA), Memphis International (MEM), and McGhee Tyson (TYS) in Knoxville. A car is the most practical way to explore the state; interstate highways I-40 (east-west), I-65, and I-24 connect major cities. Nashville has a bus rapid transit system (WeGo) and the Music City Star commuter rail. Uber and Lyft operate in all major cities.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $60–$100/night (hostels, budget motels) | $120–$200/night (3-star hotels) | $250–$500+/night (4–5-star hotels) |
| Food (per day) | $25–$40/day | $50–$80/day | $100–$200/day |
| Transportation | $15–$25/day (gas or transit) | $30–$50/day | $60–$120/day (rental car or rideshare) |
| Activities | $10–$25/day | $30–$60/day | $80–$200/day |
| Daily total | $110–$190/day | $230–$390/day | $490–$1020/day |
Best time to visit Tennessee
Spring (April–May) brings mild temperatures, wildflowers in the Smokies, and smaller crowds than summer. Fall (September–October) offers spectacular foliage, especially in the mountains. Summer is the busiest season with higher hotel rates, particularly in Nashville.
Essential travel tips
- Tennessee has no state income tax, and the sales tax on food is reduced — meals are generally tax-friendly
- Tipping 18–20% at restaurants is standard; tip bartenders $1–2 per drink
- Nashville hotel rates spike dramatically during major events — book at least 3 months ahead for CMA Fest (June)
- A rental car is essential outside of Nashville and Memphis for reaching natural attractions
- The Great Smoky Mountains are always free to enter (no entry fee); Clingmans Dome Road closes in winter
Safety information
Lock vehicles and avoid leaving valuables visible, especially in parking lots near trailheads
In Memphis, stay in the well-lit tourist areas around Beale Street after dark
Tennessee has severe weather seasons — tornado season peaks March–May; monitor weather apps
In the Smokies, wildlife encounters are common — never approach or feed black bears
Download maps offline before hiking — cell signal is unreliable in mountain areas
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Tennessee?
The best time to visit Tennessee is April–May and September–October.
Do I need a visa to visit Tennessee?
Entry requirements follow United States federal rules. Visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries can enter for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA (apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov, fee $21 USD). All others require a US visa obtained from an American embassy before travel. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Tennessee?
The currency in Tennessee is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Tennessee?
The main language(s) spoken in Tennessee: English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Tennessee?
The top attractions in Tennessee include Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Graceland, Country Music Hall of Fame, Beale Street, and Ryman Auditorium. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.