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Top 17 Hidden Gems To Visit in Tennessee

  1. Located in Sweetwater, Tennessee, the Lost Sea is a natural wonder and the largest underground lake in the United States. Take a guided tour to witness the amazing geological formations and unique ecosystems that exist beneath the earth’s surface.
  2. For nature lovers, Reelfoot Lake in the northwest corner of Tennessee is a must-see destination. With excellent fishing, boating opportunities, birdwatching, and hiking in the surrounding wetlands and cypress trees, Reelfoot Lake is truly a paradise.
  3. The Bell Witch Cave in Adams, Tennessee, is steeped in legend and folklore about the Bell Witch, a mysterious spirit said to haunt the area. Take a guided tour of the cave and hear the spine-tingling stories of the witch and the strange occurrences that have been reported over the years.
  4. Deep within Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Ruby Falls is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Witness the largest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States on guided tours through the caverns to witness the stunning beauty of the falls.
  5. On the University of Tennessee’s campus in Knoxville, the Sunken Garden is a tranquil oasis featuring terraced gardens with a vibrant array of flowers and plants. Stroll through the garden’s winding paths and take in the beauty of this serene retreat.
  6. The Hermitage, the historic home of President Andrew Jackson, is located in Nashville. Take a guided tour of the home and its surrounding grounds to learn about the life of one of America’s most controversial and influential leaders.
  7. In Chattanooga, the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates the history of the towing and recovery industry. Explore the museum’s collection of tow trucks and equipment, as well as interactive exhibits and displays that explore the important role of industry in the transportation sector.
  8. The Blount Mansion in Knoxville was the home of William Blount, a signer of the U.S. Constitution and a prominent figure in Tennessee’s early history. Take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about the life of this important statesman and his contributions to the birth of the United States.
  9. The Casey Jones Home and Railroad Museum in Jackson is a tribute to the life and legacy of Casey Jones, a legendary railroad engineer who became a folk hero after he died while trying to save his train from a collision. Explore the museum’s collection of railroad artifacts, including vintage locomotives, and take a guided tour of Jones’ restored home.
  10. The Hiwassee River – Fancy a spot for fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, old chap? The Hiwassee River is just the ticket. Offering stunning views of the surrounding forest and its wildlife, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
  11. The Lost River Cave – Bowling Green, Kentucky’s little hidden gem is a must-see attraction, mate. Explore the underground river system on a boat tour, spot some butterflies in the habitat, take a stroll through nature trails, or grab a souvenir in the gift shop.
  12. The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park – Calling all adventure seekers! If you want to experience a bit of history and some stunning views, head on over to the Cumberland Gap. With plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, and even a restored early 20th-century mountain community to explore, you’ll have a jolly good time.
  13. The Cumberland Mountain State Park – Looking for some outdoor fun, chaps? This state park has got you covered with hiking, swimming, boating, and even a spot of golfing. There’s something for everyone, including a CCC-built recreation hall, several picnic areas, and plenty of stunning views.
  14. The Ocoee River – Want to get your adrenaline pumping, lads and lasses? Look no further than the Ocoee River, home to some of the best white-water rafting in the country. It’s also a prime spot for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  15. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Ah, the great outdoors. There’s nothing quite like it, is there? Head on over to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, historic sites, camping areas, and picnic spots, it’s the perfect place to get back to nature.
  16. The Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park – Now, this is a real treat, chums. If you want to get up close and personal with some endangered species, including the American Bald Eagle and the Mississippi River Pearlshell Mussel, this is the place for you. With hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas galore, you’re in for a real treat.
  17. The T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum – Last but not least, if you’re down south, make sure to pop into the T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum in Pensacola. With exhibits on the history of Florida, including Native American artifacts, colonial history, and the state’s role in the Civil War, as well as a children’s exhibit and planetarium, it’s a real treasure trove of knowledge.