Country music and the blues may not be obvious bedfellows, but both have their roots in the fascinating southern state of Tennessee. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant cities of Nashville and Memphis by a love of music, or tempted to explore the picturesque landscape of rolling hills, river valleys and quaint towns of the Great Smoky Mountains, a holiday to Tennessee brims with possibilities. Accommodation options range from classic B&Bs to hip industrial conversions and opulent heritage hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Tennessee includes city spots as well as tranquil rural hideaways — ideal for romantic couples or outdoorsy families.
Nashville, famously the home of country music, is also Tennessee’s state capital. You’ll find a buzzing city bursting with cultural attractions — including Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, the Ryman Auditorium, Grand Old Opry House and the Johnny Cash Museum — as well as live music venues, foodie delights and glorious green spaces. Take the time to explore the coffeehouses, art galleries and micro-breweries, too. This is a bustling city with hugely appealing youthful energy.
On the banks of the Mississippi River, to the far west of the state, sits marvellous Memphis. Birthplace of the blues, this city fuses faded grandeur with bold regeneration projects and an admirably resilient spirit. Elvis fans will adore Graceland, whilst Beale Street is the place to go for the blues. Delve into the city’s past at the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum and the National Civil Rights Museum in the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968.
Venture beyond the big-hitters to hike, mountain bike and horse ride in the Great Smoky Mountains. The hubs of Chattanooga and Gatlinburg are brilliant bases for active trips with family and friends. There’s birdwatching, fishing, kayaking and golf, too, as well as white water rafting, zip-lining across the treetops, and magical state parks to discover. You’ll find some of the best places to stay in Tennessee perched alongside pristine lakes or tucked amidst the green, orange and red leaves of the mountainsides — perfect for escaping in style.
