The 30 Best Things to Do in Tennessee

By September 6, 2022May 9th, 2023America, USA

The state of Tennessee, located in the Southeastern region of the United States, is known for its natural beauty, the awe-inspiring Great Smokey Mountains, its lively country and rock n roll music scene, and for being rich in American history and culture. There really is something for everyone in the beautiful state of Tennessee. Here is my selection of the 30 best things to do in Tennessee to help inspire your next vacation. 

Top Things to Do in Tennessee 

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the top things to do in Tennessee
The Smokies”

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is at the top of the list, as it is definitely one of the best things to do in Tennessee. A trip to Tennessee wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famous and beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in the Appalachian Mountains. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only one of the most picturesque places to visit in Tennessee, but it’s the most popular national park in all the USA! Home to an array of wildlife, over 900 miles (1,448.41 km) of hiking trails, and more than 522,000 acres of forest. For some truly spectacular and scenic views, check out Cades Cove, one of the most popular destinations in the park.

The verdant valley offers some of the best opportunities to view wildlife in the park and is full of preserved historic buildings from the 19th Century. Explore the moderately difficult 5.2 mile (8.37 km) Abrams Falls hiking trail along the Cades Cove Loop where you can stop and observe a beautiful 20-foot (6 m) waterfall. For the truly adventurous, you won’t want to miss a trek along the iconic Appalachian Trail, known for being the world’s longest hiking-only trail at over 2200 miles (ca. 3,541 km) long.

Ryman Auditorium

Country fans shouldn’t miss a trip to the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Known for being one of the most celebrated venues in modern music. This performance arena has been a National Historic Landmark since 2001 for its decisive role in the rise of country music. Having first opened in 1892, the auditorium is teeming with history and visitors can learn all about past events through the various exhibits and old photos.

The auditorium is perhaps most famous for being the home of the Grand Ole Opry. Famous past performers include Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Tom Petty, Kings of Leon. Nowadays, the 2,362-seat entertainment venue continues to host many renowned musicians and performers. Music lovers should check out who is playing live whilst in town as well as tour the historical landmark.

Graceland

Home of Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley’s Memphis Mansion

One of the top things to do in Tennessee is to visit the former home and playground of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. Fans and tourists alike can have a unique glimpse into Elvis’s life with a tour of his home and grounds in Graceland. Everything remains unchanged since his passing in 1977.  You’ll have the opportunity to explore the mansion, board his private aircraft, and read about his rise to fame. You can also see some of his iconic outfits and legendary memorabilia, and walk the Meditation Gardens, where the king himself was laid to rest.

America’s second most visited home, after The White House. It has been open to the public since 1982 and is considered a place of historic significance, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Presley family offers a variety of different tours at different prices. Superfans also have the opportunity to stay at the luxurious Guest House at Graceland. There are often themed events and live concerts, so don’t forget to check out what events are going on before you visit!

Dollywood

Named after the legendary country musician Dolly Parton, Dollywood is one of the top things to do in Tennessee with kids. Located in the small town of Pigeon Forge. This 150-acre theme park boasts more than 140 rides (including nine thrilling rollercoasters), award-winning dining, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment. You can also stay at the luxury Dollywood Resort where you can enjoy spa treatments, indoor and outdoor swimming, fine dining, and some novelty shopping.

The more than 3 million annual visitors can also visit the sister water park for a fun and wet day out. Dollywood is an absolute must if you’re a number one Dolly fan, but even if you’re not, there is plenty to keep you and your family entertained. Don’t forget to look up what special events are going on when you plan to take your trip. The park hosts several concerts, festivals, and other fun events all year round. If you’re lucky, you may even get a surprise appearance from the icon herself!

The Parthenon

replica of the original Parthenon in Tennessee
“Athens of the South”

A list of attractions in Tennessee wouldn’t be complete without The Parthenon. One of the top places to see in Tennessee and the main reason the city is often dubbed the Athens of the South. This impressive structure is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon that can be found in Athens, Greece.

It was built in 1987 to commemorate Tennessee’s state centenary. Nowadays, this beloved attraction is a museum of art with a permanent collection of paintings by 19th and 20th century American artists. Other gallery spaces also host a variety of temporary shows and exhibits throughout the year. Don’t forget to check out the full-size reconstruction of the Athena Parthenos statue found on the main level. The impressive statue stands tall at 42 feet (12.8 meters) high, and is covered with more than 3.6 kg of gold leaf.

  • Fun fact: The Nashville Parthenon was used as the backdrop for a major battle scene against the Hydra in the 2010 film Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief!

The Hermitage

For those with a keen interest in American history, one of the top attractions in Tennessee is Andrew Jacksons Hermitage. Built in 1819, this beautiful house was once home to the 7th American President himself. President Jackson moved into the 1120-acre property shortly after he was elected. He remained there with his wife Rachel until he passed in 1845. Today, the house has been converted into a museum and features many artifacts from the formers president’s life.

Visitors can choose from several tour options of both the mansion and its grounds. History buffs may be particularly interested in the informative and educational tours that explore the lives of the enslaved men, women, and children who worked at The Hermitage. Other highlights include the beautiful gardens and woods, where you can find the tomb of both Jackson and his wife. The once plantation is located a few miles east of Nashville, perfect for a relaxing break from the city. Don’t forget to sample some wines from the propertys Natchez Hills Vineyard and Winery before you leave!

Lookout Mountain

View point from Lookout Mountain
Just minutes from downtown Chattanooga you can find Lookout Mountain

One of the most beautiful and picturesque places to visit in Tennessee is Lookout Mountain, a mountain ridge overlooking Chattanooga. As well as having some spectacular views, it is also a place of historical significance. Said to be the last battle site of the Cherokees in the 18th century. Lookout Mountain features three separately ticketed attractions, all of which highlight the area’s natural and historic beauty.

Visitors can board the Incline Railway, a mile-long journey on one of the world’s steepest passenger railways with an incline of 73%. Explore Ruby Falls, the tallest and deepest waterfall open to the public in all the USA. And hike through Rock City for some breathtaking views where you can see 7 states from the lookout point (Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama). To learn more about the Civil War history, be sure to visit the Battles for Chattanooga Museum. For an adrenaline-pumping time, you can also fly through the tree lines at High Point Zip Adventure at Ruby Falls. 

Jack Daniel’s Distillery

Tennessee has long been associated with its whiskey, since some of the first settlers moved to the area pre-civil wartimes. Tennessee’s whiskey is a distinct style of whiskey primarily made of corn and uses the Lincoln County Process. This gives the drink its unique charcoal flavor and rare smoothness. Whilst there are more than 30 distilleries in the state, the Jack Daniel’s distillery in Lynchburg is easily the most famous in town. A must-visit for whiskey lovers.

In 1866, the distillery became the first registered business of its kind in America. Nowadays, it produces the number one, top-selling American whiskey in the world. The distillery is actually located in the dry county of Moore. But don’t worry, Tennessee passed a state law allowing tastings during tours, and bottles of whiskey are also sold at the gift shop. Choose from various tours that offer a behind-the-scenes look into the whiskey-making process. With some offering different types of whiskey tastings and even a meal at Miss Mary Bobos Boarding House Restaurant.

Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

Music and history venues to discover in Tennessee
One of the world’s largest museums dedicated to American vernacular music

Music and history lovers unite at one of the top Tennessee attractions in the center of the nation’s country music scene in Nashville. Conveniently located in the city’s art and entertainment district. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum recounts the traditions, history, and evolution of country music through photos, interactive exhibits, vintage videos, and historical artifacts. Open since 1964, the museum has amassed one of the world’s most extensive collections dedicated to American music.

Discover and explore exhibitions on Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison, and Jimmie Rodgers. Even some more contemporary artists such as Blake Shelton and Taylor Swift. The museum’s main showcase, not to be missed, is called Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music, and it spans two whole floors of the museum. Don’t forget to check out the daily one-hour tours of the iconic recording studio, Studio B where many iconic artists have been recording their albums for over 60 years. 

National Civil Rights Museum

For those keen on learning more about the history and legacy of the Civil Rights Movement of America, the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis is a must-visit destination. The museum, open since 1991, is built around the former Lorraine Motel, the actual site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4th, 1968. The institution comprises multiple individual buildings, each one historic, and each one its own museum.

During your guided or self-guided tour, you will encounter important artifacts related to the history of the U.S. Civil Rights Movement. Numerous interactive exhibits, over 40 educational short films, and many more oral and written exhibits. You’ll even have the opportunity to see the actual motel room where King spent his final hours. It’s an incredibly moving and educational experience that will take you on a journey from the beginnings of slavery through to the current day fight for equality.

Sun Studio

Memphis recording services
Where Rock ‘N’ Roll was born!

Often referred to as the birthplace of rock n roll, Sun Studio in Memphis is one of the best things to see in Tennessee for its historical and musical significance. Quite possibly the most famous recording studio in the world. The legendary Sun Studio first opened their doors in 1950, and since then, has helped launch and grow the careers of countless renowned musicians. This list includes BB King, Ike Turner, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, and many more.

The studio is open 7 days a week (except for major holidays) and visitors can hear the unique stories of the musical legends. Check out the priceless memorabilia and stand in the very same sport where Elvis first recorded! You’ll be transported back in time when listening to some unreleased tracks and outtakes of some of the musicians from their recording sessions. There is also free parking on the premises, and the studios Rock Shop has a variety of gifts and apparel available for purchase. A truly unforgettable experience!​​

Belle Maede Plantation

Step back in time and get a glimpse into what life used to be like in the 1800s at the Bella Meade Plantation in Nashville. The historic mansion and grounds, founded in 1807, was one of the largest and wealthiest estates at the time. Encompassing 5400 acres and hosting many notable guests and celebrities, including former American presidents.

Nowadays, the 30-acre historic property runs as a museum, winery, and restaurant. Choose from a variety of tours and learn all about the fascinating family history, the stories of the slaves, the horse farm past, and tour the mansion and slaves quarters. You can even choose to explore the beautiful grounds on a guided Segway tour. At the end of the visit, you’ll be able to sample some of the properties wines and perhaps buy a bottle or an ice cream to enjoy on the spectacular property. Highly recommended as both a relaxing and educational day out.

Stones River National Battlefield & Cemetery

Tennessee, perhaps more than any other state in the USA, has been shaped by war. Learn all about the American Civil War at Stones River National Battlefield & Cemetery in Murfreesboro. The 570-acre park was the site of one of the war’s most prominent and bloodiest battles, the Battles of Stones River, which saw the loss of over 20,000 lives and resulted in a strategic Union victory.

Learn all about the historical significance of this important site by taking one of the many interpreted walks, talks, tours, and programs that are often run by the Park Service rangers and volunteers. The cemetery is also home to the oldest surviving monument to the American Civil War, Hazens Brigade Monument, as well as almost 7,000 graves. You’ll have the option to explore the beautiful grounds both by car and by foot on one of the many hiking trails. A somber but fascinating day out where you’ll learn some incredible history. 

American Museum of Science and Energy – Oak Ridge

The American Museum of Science and Energy is a fantastic day out for all ages where you can learn about all things’ science, with a particular focus on energy. There’s no shortage of fun and interactive displays for lots of hands-on learning experiences for kids and adults alike. This museum offers interesting insights into the history of nuclear energy. With an exceptionally fascinating exhibit on how Oak Ridge played a central role in atomic energy studies and their part in the development of the first nuclear bomb in the Manhattan Project.

Other highlights of the museum include exhibits on robotics, solar energy, a weather station, and a huge Van de Graaff generator. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop which sells some really unique t-shirts, souvenirs, and toys for children related to science and energy. The museum is open 7 days a week, charges a relatively small admission fee, and is definitely one of the best things to do in Tennessee with kids. 

Belmont Mansion in Nashville

Located in the heart of Nashville on the Belmont University Campus, you’ll find Belmont Mansion (also known as Acklen Hall), an Italian style Villa built in 1853. This historic mansion was originally built as a summer retreat for the wealthy Acklen family. The elaborate home features 36 rooms covering an area of 19,000 square feet (1,765.16 m²). And, the majority of the rooms have been restored to their former glory and are complete with original furniture, painting, statues, and other artwork.

Explore the estate and learn about the lives of the slaves who helped build and preserve the impressive structure. The house is full of history, and visitors can discover what happened at the decisive Battle of Nashville in 1864. Where Belmont Mansion was used as the headquarters for the 4th Corps of the Union Army and witness to the unfolding of the battle that effectively ended the Civil War. It’s a beautiful home with fascinating history, and the perfect way to spend a rainy day in Nashville, Tennessee. 

Lower Broadway

For some of the best entertainment and nightlife in town, head on over to Lower Broadway in Nashville. Known as Lower Broad, this part of town, located near the Rylan Auditorium, has attracted country music fans to its honky-tonk bars for decades. Both locals and tourists alike flock to this strip for live country music, southern hospitality, and heaps of fun. Located in the heart of downtown, most establishments don’t have a cover charge, which means you can easily hop around from one venue to another and happily dance the night away.

Famous and popular venues include Tootsies Orchid Lounge, complete with a rooftop bar; Ole Red bar by Black Shelton which often hosts surprise celebrity guests; The Stage On Broadway which features three levels of live music; Roberts Western World for some very traditional country music; Honky Tonk Central where different genres of music are played on every level; and Legends Corner where you can find a cool mural painting of some of the histories most popular country artists.

Beale Street

street in Downtown Memphis
You really can’t go to Memphis without making a visit to Beale Street!

Memphis is perhaps best known as the home of blues and the birthplace of rock and roll. It is all about the music scene, and a visit to the famous Beale Street is one of the top things to do in Tennessee if you’re a blues lover or just looking for a good time. Easily the most famous street in the state (and arguably the whole country), it’s another top location for some live music and entertainment.

The almost 2-mile (3.2 km) long road is packed with excellent restaurants, shops, bars, and clubs. With many live music venues playing delta blues, jazz, rock n roll, R&B, and gospel. Some of the most popular spots to eat and drink include the Absinthe Room, Alfreds on Beale, BB King’s Blues Club, and Coyote Ugly Saloon. Not only is the iconic street a top destination for an awesome night out, but it’s also a National Historic Landmark rich in history. With museums, photo ops, and clubs where you can learn about some of the legendary artists who made the blues genre what it is today. 

Tennessee Valley Railroad

The Tennessee Valley Railroad in Chattanooga offers train enthusiasts an interactive and educational experience where you can learn all about the state’s interesting railroad history. In the 1800s, the railways were of utmost importance for transporting supplies during wartime, proving a vital link in the Confederate supply chain during the Civil War. The museum offers a unique learning experience for visitors who are educated first-hand on how the trains operate by riding in vintage cars on authentic trains that were built in the early 1900s.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers various routes, and visitors can decide whether they’d prefer to ride in one of the museum’s steam-powered trains or in a diesel engine train. For a fantastically unique fine dining experience, book yourself a spot on the dinner train, where you can enjoy a three-course meal whilst riding onboard one of the restored historic dining cars. The museum also runs various holiday-themed excursions, including a North Pole trip that is great for kids.

Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry is a weekly country music concert in Nashville and the longest-running radio broadcast in US history. Founded in 1925, this iconic show continues to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world, as well as millions of internet and radio listeners. Although the venue has changed over the years, the show remains devoted to honoring country music and its history with a mix of top country legends as well as newer chart-toppers.

Notable past guests include Johnny Cash, Paul McCartney, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Pharrell Williams, and many more. The show is performed almost year-round, but if you can’t make it to one of the live performances, don’t forget you can also experience the thrill of the Opry on a backstage tour. Explore the show’s current home for a behind-the-scenes look at some of the music legends who have previously graced the stage. You may even have the chance to step on stage and into the famed wooden circle, as generations of notable artists have done before.

Titanic Museum

Titanic museum Tennessee
Built half-scale to the original Titanic!

Owned and founded by the man that led the diving expedition to the Titanic in 1987, the RMS Titanium Museum in Pigeon Forge is the largest, and arguably the best, museum dedicated to the ship in the world. The boat-shaped museum cost an eye-watering $25 million to build and is a half-scale replica of the original RMS Titanic.

The impressive structure is home to more than 400 artifacts, 20 fascinating galleries, and plenty of survivor stories where you can learn all about the magnificent ship and its sad demise. Step onboard and experience life on the Titanic, as each of the interior recreated rooms have been specially designed so that visitors feel like they are on an original passenger on the 1912 maiden voyage. Once inside, you will even receive a boarding ticket that has the name of a real passenger from the voyage, as well as what class they traveled on. At the end of the 2-hour self-guided tour, you will arrive at the Titanic Memorial Room where you can find out what happened to each of the passengers, including the one on your ticket. 

Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Jack Daniel’s may be the number one top-selling whiskey to come out of Tennessee, but there are over 30 distilleries and more than 830 miles (1,335 km) of beautiful landscapes to explore on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. The statewide trail is a collaborative adventure organized by various Tennessee distillers to promote whiskey tourism in the region. Plan your trip, get your whiskey passport, and download the trail map to taste some of the world’s finest whiskeys!

The official Whiskey Trail website estimates you might need up to 21 days to visit all the participating distilleries, but they also propose various shorter trails depending on how many establishments you want to visit and in which regions. Each distillery has different requirements for tours and tastings, with some charging a minimal fee and others offering complimentary offerings. If you do manage to visit all participating distilleries, and have logged each visit by checking in on the app or getting a stamp in your booklet, you’ll even earn yourself a free commemorative souvenir t-shirt!

Discovery Park of America

Located in the beautiful Reelfoot Lake region in Union City, Discovery Park of America is a fun day out for every member of the family. One of the top Tennessee activities, this 100,000-square-foot (304,80 m) museum and beautifully landscaped 50-acre heritage park offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. The many indoor galleries and exhibits provide interactive experiences for guests to learn all about history, technology, science, space, art, and more. Highlights include an earthquake simulator, a 60-foot (18 m) model of the human body, a theater, and a 20,000-gallon aquarium.

There are also 7 outdoor exhibits, including a replica settlement designed to mimic early 20th-century life in West Tennessee. Visitors can tour the beautiful grounds and explore the river, waterfalls, bridges, and even Japanese gardens. Don’t forget to ride the Cooper Tower elevator up to Northwest Tennessee’s tallest structure and observation tower for some breathtaking views of the surrounding area. General admission tickets and a VIP Discovery Package option can be purchased online for an educational and relaxing day out. 

Lost Sea Cave

For a fun-filled, adventurous day out, head over to the wondrous Lost Sea Cave at Craighead Caverns in Seawater. Travel approximately 140 feet (42.67 m) below ground to this immense cave system, which is home to the largest underwater lake in the US (the second largest in the world!). Explore the caverns which are filled with an abundance of crystal clusters, including anthodites, stalactites, and stalagmites.

The surrounding area is also home to a wide array of flora and fauna, and even a 60-foot (18 m) waterfall where you can play and splash in the pool that lies beneath it. A truly magical day out, with not only lots of nature to explore, but also lots of history. When the first white settlers arrived in the Tennessee Valley in the 1820s, they used the cave for storing potatoes and other vegetables. Slightly after, during the American Civil War, the Confederate Army mined the cave for saltpeter (an important material used to manufacture gunpowder). Don’t miss out on the boat tour of the Lost Sea, a definite highlight of the trip.

Crystal Shrine Grotto

Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery in Memphis features the only man-made crystal cave in the world, the Crystal Shrine Grotto. This grotto is a 60 ft (18.29 m) deep, hand-built cave, filled with 5 tons of quartz crystal, hence its name. The building of this construction started in the 1930s and features a unique collection of stone forms, religious imagery, and extraordinary craftsmanship.

The shrines in the grotto are built by artist Dionicio Rodriguez and illustrate the stages of Christs journey from birth to resurrection. This beautiful and exceptional space was designed to provide a serene environment ideal for reflection. So, take a break from the usual chaotic tourist activities and enjoy perusing the exceptional craftsmanship and experience the kind of silence only heard in cemeteries. A truly peaceful and one-of-a-kind activity, and without doubt, one of the top 10 things to do in Memphis. 

Downtown Knoxville & Sunsphere Tower

Panoramic view of Knoxville
The Sunsphere served as the symbol of the 1982 World’s Fair

Located between the Great Smoky Mountains and the mighty Tennessee River, Knoxville is a modern and exciting city, known for being the first capital of the state of Tennessee. The city is home to interesting Civil War history, a vibrant arts scene, and plenty of excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. Downtown, Market Square is home to a busy famous market and hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including Bacon Fest, Biscuit Fest, Brew Fest, and more. So, be sure to check the events’ calendar before you plan your visit.

The city is also famous for being an excellent base from which to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And, outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the city’s picturesque lakes, trails, and parks. You can’t miss out on a trip to the city’s most notable landmark, the Sunsphere Tower. Here you can make your way up to the newly renovated observation deck for some spectacular panoramic views of the city, the Tennessee River, and the Great Smokey Mountains. 

The Museum of Appalachia

Located in Norris, around 20 miles (32.19 km) northwest of Knoxville, this 65-acre open-air history museum educates visitors all about the pioneer and early 20th-century settlers of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. The Museum of Appalachian is a collection of more than 30 historic buildings (log cabins, barns, churches, and schools) nestled in beautiful grounds. Explore the picturesque pastures, home to thousands of artifacts (including folk art collections and musical instruments) that help paint a picture of what life was like for the traditional Appalachian communities.

The two-story Appalachian Hall of Fame building is a definite highlight, which exhibits items associated with notable individuals from the Appalachian region. Perhaps one of the best kept heritage villages in all the country, the living history museum makes for a fantastic and educational day trip from nearby Knoxville. Self-guided tours are available 7 days a week, and guests can enjoy a meal at the onsite café. The museum holds a variety of events throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar before you plan your trip.

Tennessee State Capitol Building

Those with a keen interest in politics and American history shouldn’t miss a trip to the Tennessee State Capitol Building in Nashville. The elegant structure was built between 1845 and 1859 and is both on the National Register of Historic Places since 1970 and a National Historic Landmark since 1971. One of the oldest working statehouses in the United States, the Tennessee State Capitol serves as the home of the Tennessee General Assembly and is home to the governor’s office.

This government building offers visitors both guided and self-guided tours. Tourists can observe the various monuments of notable former Tennessee residents, including former President Andrew Jackson. The grounds are also the final resting place of former President James K Polk and his wife Sarah, as well as the architect William Strickland, who designed the Capitol building. The fascinating history and unique opportunity of walking through the hall and seeing the senate and house make this a truly unforgettable experience. 

Hattie B’s Restaurant

Foodies and fried chicken lovers absolutely mustn’t pass on the opportunity to dine at Hattie Bs Restaurant for Hot Chicken when in Nashville. The family-owned restaurant is famed for its high-quality grub, delicious flavors, and outstanding southern hospitality. Patrons have enjoyed exceptional food at this casual, counter-service establishment since 2012. The company specializes in hot chicken, a perfectly fried chicken dish that is bathed in hot melted spices. Diners can choose from a variety of heat levels, from Southern (no heat), Mild, Medium, Hot, Damn Hot to the daredevils dream, Shut the Cluck Up.

You’ll also love the extravagant and delicious Dirty Bird Fries, topped with pimento mac & cheese, dark meat tender bites, green onions & kosher pickles. If you’re not too full from the huge portions, try the fan-favorite banana pudding for dessert. There’s almost always a long line for this relatively small establishment, but it’s absolutely worth the wait.

The Rendezvous

Another top spot for foodies and meat lovers is Carlie Vergos Rendezvous Restaurant in downtown Memphis. A top BBQ spot for many years. The establishment has been serving up delicious racks of smoked ribs & sausages with dry-rub spices since 1948, ever since Charlie Vergos cleaned out a basement below his diner, discovered a coal chute, and opened the legendary restaurant. You’ll be particularly blown away by the famous charbroiled pork ribs, which taste like no other. To accompany your main, the vinegary slaw and flavorful beans are also a must.

With several thousand visitors on an average Saturday night, the place gets very busy, but the service and southern hospitality are top and staff are more than capable of keeping up with the numerous diners. If you love the food as much as I think you will, you can also buy a bottle of their famous barbecue sauce and Cajun seasoning, so you can attempt to cook your own delicious BBQ food at home. 

Hatch Show Print

When in Nashville, be sure to check out one of the oldest and most renowned letterpress print stores in all of America, the Hatch Show Print. Take a behind-the-scenes guided tour of the shop, founded in 1879, and learn all about the history and process of printmaking. This iconic design shop is most famous for its woodblock prints of classic country music stars, being at its most popular during the golden age of the country music scene of Nashville over 50 years ago.

The shop continues to create more than 150,000 posters annually, and you’ll even have the opportunity to print your own poster at the end of the tour—a great souvenir! Located only a short 1-minute walk from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, tourists shouldn’t skip this fun spot when in Nashville. Particularly recommended for country music lovers!

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