The Best Things to Do in Tennessee: 10 Activities You Can’t Miss

Incredible Views and Southern Hospitality Await in Tennessee

I love to take trips with my family – and the planning is actually one of my favorite parts of the process. When you’re going somewhere new with kids (or even familiar!), it’s always good to have a plan.

If you’re planning a trip to Tennessee, you’ll want to find out what our readers voted as their favorite things to do in Tennessee with kids in our annual Grandtastics awards.

Top Voted Things to Do in Tennessee For Families

We asked, you told us! Here’s your favorite stops in Tennessee:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

1 – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Natural Beauty? Check

Tons of wildlife? Check

Accessible? Check

Families love to hike and explore at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Don’t forget to get your photo op by the sign!

Pro Tip: If you have a 4th grader, you can get in free!

2 – Dollywood

2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Dollywood celebrates Appalachian culture and Dolly Parton. Famous for their hospitality, Southern-style food (get the cinnamon bread and BBQ pulled pork!), and live music, it’s a standout among theme parks.

3 – The Island in Pigeon Forge

131 Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

The Island in Pigeon Forge is a combo of entertainment, unique attractions and Southern hospitality all rolled into one.

Visitors love the massive 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, offering stellar views of the Smoky Mountains. Be sure to catch the light show – especially at night.

4 – Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Families love to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies for their immersive underwater experiences, interactive exhibits and unique encounters.

Walk through a massive underwater tunnel, swing by the Penguin Playhouse, visit the new Dragons exhibit, touch stingrays and so much more.

Happy Travels!

Where will you stop on your Tennessee vacation? Let us know!