Welcome to Tennessee

From the lowlands of the Mississippi Delta to the peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee is packed with beautiful landscapes. More than 300 waterfalls cascade down precipitous drops, enticing hikers and photographers from around the world. Crystal-clear creeks and rivers ripple through the valleys, providing prime spots for fishing, swimming and tubing.

Tennessee’s heart beats with a musical tune, from Memphis’s gritty blues to Nashville’s country twang. You’ll even hear the folksy lilt of bluegrass as you reach the Appalachian region. Many famous musicians have called Tennessee home over the years, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton. Explore their homes and studios at several spots across the state.

Surrounded by eight states, Tennessee abounds with Southern hospitality and regional cuisine. Friendly towns like Chattanooga and Knoxville welcome visitors with zoos, museums and thriving entertainment scenes, while large metro areas like Nashville and Memphis burst with culture and history.

Exploring the Smokies

Layer upon layer of green mountain ridges fill the horizon as a gentle mist rises from the valleys below, setting a picturesque scene in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located at the far eastern edge of Tennessee, the park extends into North Carolina and encompasses more than 800 square miles packed with beauty, historical landmarks and abundant wildlife. At the foot of the mountains, the towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer amusement parks and entertainment venues for the whole family.

Elvis Lived Here

Located along the Mississippi River in western Tennessee, Memphis is one rocking town. Elvis Presley was once the most famous resident, and his beloved estate, Graceland, welcomes over half a million visitors each year. Also in town, rock ’n’ roll history comes to life at Sun Studio.

While Memphis is a little bit rock and roll, Nashville is a whole lot of country. From the Grand Ole Opry to the historic Ryman Auditorium, Nashville’s musical roots are on spectacular display. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum for the stories behind the stars.

In Chattanooga, nearby Lookout Mountain is accessible via the Incline Railway to the summit for panoramic views of the city and Tennessee River Valley below. Within the mountain, experience the phenomenal Ruby Falls, a 145-foot cascade that’s the world’s largest underground waterfall.