Two Takes on Tennessee: From Memphis to the Smokies

Including Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville and The Great Smokey Mountains

Tennessee, often referred to as the “Volunteer State,” is a diverse and culturally rich destination located in the southeastern United States. From the vibrant music scene of Nashville to the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers visitors a wide range of attractions and experiences to explore.

Regions

Here are the key regions of Tennessee:

West Tennessee: Anchored by Memphis, this region is rich in musical heritage, with the blues and rock ‘n’ roll roots at Beale Street and Graceland. It also includes historic sites like Shiloh National Military Park and the charming town of Jackson.
Middle Tennessee: Centered around Nashville, the state’s capital and the heart of country music. This region also features historic Civil War sites in Franklin and Murfreesboro, alongside a growing cultural and culinary scene.
East Tennessee: Home to cities like Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Bristol, this region is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. The area is rich in Appalachian culture and offers attractions like the Tennessee River and Lookout Mountain.
The Smokies (East Tennessee): This region includes Sevierville, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge, serving as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a hub for tourism, with outdoor activities, Dollywood, and breathtaking mountain views.

The Same

Living in North Carolina for many years, The Dinks visited Tennessee often while the Family has only visited Nashville. If you can only visit one place in TN, it has to be Nashville.

Nashville

Nashville, the state capital, is world-renowned for its lively music scene, particularly in the country music genre. Visitors can explore historic music venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, as well as honky-tonk bars along Broadway. The city also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Southern fare and innovative cuisine.

Two Takes on Nashville, Tennessee: Honky-Tonks to Hidden Gems

Local Cuisine

Tennessee’s cuisine is a flavorful reflection of its diverse cultural heritage and rich history. From the smoky barbecues of Memphis to the hearty Southern comfort food found in small towns and cities alike, Tennessee offers a culinary experience that’s as varied as its landscapes.

BBQ: Tennessee barbecue is a rich and flavorful tradition that varies by region, offering a unique experience in each part of the state. Memphis-style places a strong emphasis on the slow-smoking process, using hickory wood to infuse the meat with a deep, smoky flavor. In East Tennessee, the barbecue tradition leans towards whole hog barbecue, where the entire pig is slow-cooked over a pit.
Nashville Hot Chicken: Spicy fried chicken coated in a cayenne pepper paste, typically served with pickles and white bread.
Country Ham: Salt-cured ham with a rich, savory flavor, often served with biscuits or grits.
Fried Green Tomatoes: Slices of green tomatoes, breaded and fried, offering a crispy and tangy bite.
Fried Catfish: Crispy, golden-fried catfish, usually served with hush puppies, coleslaw, and tartar sauce.
Grits: A creamy dish made from ground corn, often served as a breakfast item or side dish, sometimes with cheese or shrimp.
MoonPie: A sweet treat originating in Chattanooga, consisting of marshmallow filling sandwiched between graham crackers and coated in chocolate.
Banana Pudding: A classic Southern dessert made with layers of vanilla pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers, topped with whipped cream or meringue.
Sweet Tea: A quintessential Southern beverage, brewed tea sweetened with sugar, often served iced.

The DINKs

Living in the Carolinas, we’ve had the pleasure of visiting Tennessee regularly, allowing us to explore much of the state, from its bustling cities to its charming small towns. Our travel has taken us across the diverse landscapes of Tennessee, from the vibrant streets of Memphis and Nashville to the serene beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Each trip deepens our appreciation for the state’s rich culture, history, and natural splendor, making Tennessee a favorite destination that always offers something new to discover.

The Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in eastern Tennessee, is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning scenery, including lush forests, towering mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives throughout the park.

Cades Cove Loop is a scenic drive that takes visitors on an 11-mile loop through one of the most picturesque valleys in the Smokies. Surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and rolling meadows, Cades Cove is renowned for its stunning beauty and abundant wildlife. Visitors can spot white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and other animals along the drive, as well as explore historic homesteads, churches, and other remnants of the area’s early settlers. The loop road is also popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering several trailheads and picnic areas along the route. There are some old cabins and churches you can check out. We were lucky enough to see a momma black beer with two cubs in the early evening drive.
Clingman’s Dome, is the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, standing at an elevation of 6,643 feet (2,025 meters). The dome is accessible via a paved trail that leads to an observation tower at the summit, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a clear day, visitors can see for miles in every direction, making it one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the park. The trail to Clingman’s Dome is relatively short but steep, and the temperature at the summit can be much cooler than at lower elevations, so visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a charming mountain town nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its picturesque scenery, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions, Gatlinburg is a favorite vacation spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift to enjoy panoramic views of the area, or take a stroll along the bustling downtown Parkway, lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg Space Needle.

Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, located just a short drive from Gatlinburg, is home to Dollywood, the famous theme park owned by country music superstar Dolly Parton. Pigeon Forge also offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions, including the Titanic Museum Attraction, WonderWorks interactive museum, and numerous dinner theaters and live entertainment venues. The city is known for its lively atmosphere and abundance of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The Island in Pigeon Forge is a premier entertainment and shopping destination located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This popular attraction offers a variety of family-friendly activities, dining options, and shopping opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for visitors of all ages. In addition to the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, The Island features a variety of other attractions and experiences, including the Island Show Fountain, a choreographed water and light show set to music that delights visitors of all ages. There’s also the Island Ropes Course, where visitors can challenge themselves with a series of obstacles and zip lines, as well as the Island Mirror Maze, a fun and interactive maze experience. For dining options, The Island offers a range of restaurants and eateries, from casual dining spots to upscale establishments. Visitors can enjoy Southern cuisine, barbecue, seafood, and more, all while taking in views of the scenic surroundings. One of our favorite things use to be the Old Smokey moonshine tasting. Back in the day it was free and you got about 12 – 15 samples. Now it’s only $5 – $10 but the number of samples is limited.
Mellow Mushroom: If you frequent Pigeon Forge, Mellow Mushroom has frozen drink cups where if you bring them back you get a great discount on refills.

Knoxville

Knoxville, the largest city in eastern Tennessee, offers a mix of urban amenities, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can explore the historic Market Square, visit the Knoxville Museum of Art, or catch a game at Neyland Stadium, home of the University of Tennessee Volunteers football team. The city also boasts beautiful parks and green spaces, including the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum and the Ijams Nature Center.

Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro, Tennessee, located in the heart of Middle Tennessee, is a city rich in history and Southern charm. The city is historically significant, particularly for its role in the Civil War. The Stones River National Battlefield, located in Murfreesboro, was the site of a crucial and intense battle in 1862. Today, the battlefield serves as a poignant reminder of the past, offering visitors a chance to learn about this pivotal moment in American history through its well-preserved grounds and informative museum.

Murfreesboro’s downtown area blends historic architecture with modern amenities, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city is also known for its community events, including the Main Street JazzFest and Uncle Dave Macon Days, a celebration of old-time music and dance.

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU): Known as the home of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), one of the state’s largest public universities, Murfreesboro has a vibrant college town atmosphere with a mix of youthful energy and deep-rooted tradition. The game day experience from tailgating before the game to seeing a game live within the vibrant stadium is a must when visiting this small college town.

Memphis

Memphis, located in southwestern Tennessee, is famous for its contributions to American music, particularly blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. Visitors can tour iconic landmarks such as Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, and Sun Studio, where legendary musicians like Elvis, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King recorded their music. Beale Street is another must-visit destination, known for its live music venues, barbecue joints, and vibrant nightlife.

One of Memphis’ most famous attractions is Graceland, the former home of music legend Elvis Presley. Visitors can tour the mansion, Elvis’ custom jets, and exhibits showcasing his career and personal life. Graceland is a must-visit for fans of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and music enthusiasts alike. If you are not a big fan and not willing to fork out the dough to do a tour, the grounds are open free to the public in the early hours of the morning. We were able to see the gardens, gravesite and pool without having to pay a dime.
Another iconic Memphis landmark is Beale Street, known for its vibrant nightlife, live music, and historic significance. Visitors can explore the street’s many clubs, bars, and restaurants, where they can enjoy live performances of blues, jazz, and rock music. Beale Street also hosts festivals and events throughout the year, including the Beale Street Music Festival.
Memphis is also home to the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum chronicles the history of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, offering powerful exhibits and interactive displays that educate and inspire visitors.
Memphis Barbecue Ribs: Slow-cooked pork ribs with a tangy, tomato-based sauce, often served with coleslaw and baked beans. Iconic spots like Central BBQ, The Rendezvous, and Corky’s have made Memphis barbecue a must-try for any BBQ enthusiast. They are all worth trying, please don’t make me choose which is best.
Other notable attractions in Memphis include the Memphis Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, which celebrates the legacy of Stax Records and its impact on American music.

Summary

In comparing our two different takes on Tennessee, both the DINKs and the family found common ground in Nashville, indulging in the city’s vibrant local cuisine. However, the DINKs’ regular visits allowed them to delve deeper into the state, exploring not just Nashville, but also Memphis, the Great Smoky Mountains, and countless small towns. Their broader experience highlighted the diverse beauty and culture that Tennessee has to offer, making their journey through the Volunteer State a more comprehensive adventure.