Choosing the right destination for your next family trip isn’t always easy. And revisiting the same locations year after year can quickly become boring and repetitive. Trying somewhere new is the best way to inject some excitement into your next family getaway and more families than ever are discovering that Tennessee has something to keep everyone happy.
Home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee is a wonderland of lush forests, cascading waterfalls and a hub for outdoor adventures. Not forgetting its rich history of music, vibrant cities, wonderful educational experiences and culinary delights that will fill even the pickiest of tummies. Here’s why you and your family should find the best flight to Tennessee and see what this incredible state has to offer.
Natural Beauty
Did you know that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the US? If you and your family are looking for something a little different than heading to the beach or finding your way through tourist-heavy attractions then why not take a walk on the wild side instead?
There are plenty of opportunities for family-friendly hiking with hundreds of trails (over 800 miles worth) and easy nature walks for people of all ages and abilities. You’ll also find plenty of picnic areas and campground spaces for those who want to take things a little slower and relax in the breathtaking beauty of this National Park. If you’d prefer to stay in the car, then there are plenty of driving routes to take that offer stunning panoramic views of mountains and valleys – the perfect opportunity to take some new family photos.
If you’re looking to spot some incredible wildlife, then you’ll also find designated areas that are purpose-built for safe wildlife observation, which means seeing black bears, elk, deer and woodchucks is safe and accessible.
Outdoor Activities
Spending time together as a family outdoors is the perfect way to make memories together and visiting Tennessee means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to embrace the outdoors together with a variety of activities. If you’ve always wanted to try fishing then why not try a family fishing experience? You’ll find plenty of guided fishing trips for families who’ll provide all the equipment and instruction you’ll need to make your first big catch!
If you have older children who want to try something a little more adventurous, then adventure parks in the area offer zip-lining tours through the lush green treetops of the forests – it’s the best way to experience the canopy and get your teens to look up from their cell phones!
Have you ever considered a family-friendly white water rafting experience? Well in the Smoky Mountains, you can experience exactly that! From gentle floats for those with little experience to thrilling rapids ready for individuals who dare! Family-friendly rafting tours are always exhilarating and overseen by professionals who’ll ensure everyone safe and having fun. If you want to experience the Smokies from a completely new perspective then horse riding trails are abundant here. Family-friendly tours offer guides and routes for all levels, so whether you’re a beginner or a horse enthusiast, you’re sure to have an incredible time.
Family Attractions – Amusement Parks and Educational Opportunities
Families can enjoy a diverse range of attractions for all ages in Tennessee. The most famous amusement park in Tennessee? Dollywood of course! Nestled in the foothills of the Smokey Mountains, this tribute to the life, career and cultural influence of Dolly Parton reflects Dolly’s Appalachian heritage and her musical influence, personality and storytelling abilities can be found everywhere you look in this utterly unique amusement park.
You’ll find a variety of rollercoasters for thrill seekers and little ones, as well as Dolly’s water park (Splash Country) which features attractions such as a lazy river and family-friendly water play areas and slides. If you’re looking for live music then daily performances play homage to Dolly’s musical career, reflecting the state’s musical roots and offering something for everyone!
If you want to know more about the Great Smoky Mountains, then the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center should be on your list of family-friendly activities. Head to Townsend and you’ll find a variety of exhibits that provide incredible insight into the natural beauty, and cultural significance of the area. You’ll learn about conservation, local wildlife, Native American Heritage, Early Settlers and will even have the chance to try some interactive learning with weaving, pottery making and music sessions.
Dining Options
Whilst in Tennessee there’s no better place to try some genuine, authentic Southern comfort food. You’ll find a wide range of eateries that offer hearty Southern dishes in both casual and formal dining experiences. From biscuits and gravy to barbeque, Nashville hot chicken, moonpies and catfish dishes you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Naturally, if you’re looking for a quick bite to eat after a busy day whitewater rafting or exploring the Smoky Mountains, you’ll find all your favourite chain fast food restaurants too. Or, how about a picnic spot in the wilderness? Popular picnic spots in the area include Cades Cove, and you’ll find a variety of camping grounds in the area offering tables and BBQs – the perfect place for a family cookout, surrounded by nature.
Scenic restaurants in the area provide a perfect opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And something you can reminisce with your children about for years to come. The SkyDeck at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is one great location, that allows families to take in the breathtaking views whilst they eat and spend time together.
The Trip of a Lifetime
If you’re looking for an incredible destination to explore and discover together as a family then Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains should be at the top of your travel bucket list. Whether you want to camp out in the wilderness and embrace nature together or you want to head to Dollywood and embrace the cultural and musical heritage of this incredible state, Tennessee has something for everyone.
