Tennessee is a name associated mostly with romance and this has its great reason – a destination of country music, full of beauties such as mountain scenery, waterfalls, delicious food, and hot southern hospitality. Romantic getaways are especially desirable in this state. In addition to the listed benefits, every couple who decides to choose Tennessee for a wonderful experience will find convenient transportation, spectacles, many flowers, a tropical atmosphere, and whatnot for a memorable adventure. See below are the top-rated places for the best romantic getaways in Tennessee:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

great smoky mountains national park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is in the first place because to this day it is considered the best romantic getaway destination. You will spend the night in the wonderful hotels in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Townsend, as well as the starry sky if you like camping. There are also delicacies to eat and magnificent views in this famous park. Your days will be fulfilled: you can reach the top of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or the highest peak in Tennessee at the Clingmans Dome. Top of Ole Smoky is ideal for romance and selfies, where you will bathe in the colors of the sunset. If you hike to the top of the Ole Smoky Observation Tower, you will see a unique 360-degree panorama. Among the names of places to visit, don’t miss the Clingmans Dome to see the slow unfolding of mountain peaks looming in the fog. Landscapes that you simply admire are the radiant sunsets of this emphatically romantic place. In the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there is also something for the more royal-minded: a horse-drawn carriage ride, contemplation of wildlife and green nature, and a view of rural life.

2. Dollywood, Pigeon Forge

Dollywood – the name probably reminds you of Dolly Parton, and it’s no coincidence. If your romantic getaway in Tennessee is here, you’re in the vast 150-acre theme park at Pigeon Forge, the Great Smoky Mountains, where butterfly images are everywhere, illustrating the title of Dolly Parton’s hit “Love is Like a Butterfly.” You can check-in at one of Pigeon Forge’s resorts or hotels, board the Dollywood Express for a natural beauty trip, and follow the sounds of music that take you to the scenes of great artists, to Traipse’s mystical pathways in the evening, illuminated by flashing LED lights. And because Dolly herself comes from a village, you can visit the replica of the mountain lodge with its two rooms. Dollywood also offers you to see how glass is made by blowing, to eat freshly made cinnamon bread from Grist Mill, as well as to take a train ride.

3. Chattanooga

chattanooga tn cityscape
Chattanooga is a romantic destination on the Tennessee River. Her name is associated with Glenn Miller’s 1941 hit Chattanooga Choo-Choo, about a young man who returns home to marry a girl he has loved since he was a child. In the center of Chattanooga, you will find nice hotels, an art scene, spectacular eateries, comfortable promenades, and, an important attraction – the Tennessee Aquarium where you will receive a virtual tour of the Journey River. You will find yourself in a real exotic, tropical nature and animals. The other attraction is the River Otter Falls, which is the highest point in the forest of Appalachian Cove on the River Journey. All this will awaken in you a smile and delight.

4. Gatlinburg’s Romantic Escape

gatlinburg scenic overlook
Gatlinburg is not just a tourist destination for a wonderful romantic getaway in Tennessee. You will want to return for a number of reasons: staying in a mountain hut or apartment with all modern comforts, good food, Anakeesta theme park, chairlift from Gatlinburg Strip to the park, climbing to the top of AnaVista Tower. It is just a real piece of paradise, to which the heavenly path at the top of the trees can lead you. The lift should not scare you, as it is 60 feet high and 880 feet long – on the contrary: this will be an occasion to wrap your loved one in a gentle embrace on high. And for fans of noisier activities, he offers friendly competition in the “duelling zipline” of Anakeesta.

5. Memphis

beale street memphis tn
Memphis is a name that combines music and romance in a unique way, which is why it is considered one of the best romantic getaways in Tennessee. The place is a real passion for the gospel, blues, soul, and rock and roll. Stroll down Beale Street to enjoy live music and warm hospitality, and visit Graceland and other great sights. By no means miss the Memphis Botanical Garden to indulge in sweet serenity in the Japanese Garden, which has a pavilion to observe the moon, a Red Drum Bridge, and a small pond with colorful fish. The 96-acre Audubon Park has gardens such as the rose and sensory garden, Lake Audubon, a pavilion on the lake, where you can listen to a concert. Events are organized, such as a picnic with a teddy bear, for which you should follow the announcement. There are plenty of suggestions for a wonderful weekend getaway in this notable city of Tennessee.

6. Knoxville

Knoxville Park Tower Tennessee
Knoxville is located north of the Great Smoky Mountains and on the banks of the Tennessee River. In it, couples can find both urban charm and rural charm. Stroll along historic Market Square, South Gay Street, or cycle through the Knoxville Desert. There is more – to go rowing in Lake Mead’s Quarry. Cultural events also abound – like a concert or music festival on the lawn of World’s Fair Park, which can also be part of your romance. And to cool off, go to the Court of Flags fountain to get sprayed under it.

7. Downtown Nashville

nashville tn street
Music – this is the prevailing noise in Nashville, and what would be a romantic getaway in Tennessee without music? How about a show at Ryman, the original Grand Ole Opry? Even the very presence there can fill you with romance. You can’t help but find yourself on Love Circle, as well as on Bald Hill, which can be reached by a steep hill. You will be 744 feet above the city, and if you are lucky enough to experience your romantic escape on July 4, then you will enjoy fireworks.

8. Tellico Plains and the Cherohala Skyway

The Tennessee Hills is attractive as a magnet for a loving couple, and Tellico Plains is one of the best small towns in Tennessee, where nature will surround you, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the national forests of Cherokee and Nantahala. If your weekend getaway is in the fall, you can enjoy its colors by crossing Cherohala Skyway, a section of Highway 165 up to 5,400 feet before crossing into North Carolina. And when you continue on Hwy 165 with a side trip to Bald River Falls, you will see this unique cascade, a mile high, feeling like you are flying with your loved one in the sky…

9. Morristown


if you and your partner like to go on more traditional dates, Morristown should be at the top of your visit list. There are a lot of fun things to do with your partner at the Bickford Theater, like go to jazz concerts and see kids’ theater. You can also see dramas, musicals, and a lot more. Immerse yourself in nature at Lewis Morris Park, where you can go for a hike or run, go mountain biking, or have a picnic in the woods. Let your competitive side out at Lidgerwood Park, where there are tennis, baseball, basketball, and soccer fields. You can play with your partner on any of the fields.

Take your date to Panther Creek State Park, which is on the shores of Cherokee Lake. The park has beautiful views of the lake. AMC Headquarters 10 is another place you should go to eat a lot of popcorn and watch new movies. Visit Morristown National Historical Park and the Washington Headquarters & Museum even if you don’t like history. Even if you don’t like history, it can still be fun. The Lloyd Smith Gallery, an American-style gallery, a war military life gallery, and more can be found here. It was built in 1937. The Frelinghuysen Arboretum, which is 127 acres, has fountains, pavilions, lush fields, woodlands, and a lot of different kinds of plants. Also, you could go to the Morristown and Morris Township Library, then go for a walk in one of the many public parks or go on a trip.

10. Tennessee Valley Railroad along the Hiwassee River


The Tennessee Valley Railroad (TVR) is a place to enjoy the Smoky Mountains. Romance and trains are two related things, especially on the Tennessee Valley Railroad along the Hiwassee River, one of Tennessee’s wild rivers. You will be able to complete the famous 50-mile Hiwassee Loop aboard the restored TVR retro wagon with views from the dome of the sky and beautiful nature: mountains, river, forest… The round-trip begins and ends near Delano, ie. 60 miles northeast of Chattanooga, and after the tour, you have the opportunity for a romantic dinner to add flavor to your vacation. If your weekend getaway is planned for Valentine’s Day, even better, as there is a special themed excursion for it.

11. Greeneville


When you spend a weekend in Greeneville with your family, you can share magical moments with them while also exploring Tennessee’s second-oldest town. The Niswonger Performing Arts Center, which hosts a variety of shows including musicals, ballets, children’s programming, stand-up comedy, and much more, is a great place to take your partner if you are both interested in the arts. At the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, you can immerse yourself in history by touring two of his houses, his tailor shop, and his burial site. Spend an exciting day hiking with friendly llamas in the breathtaking Smoky Mountains with The Wandering Llamas, and give your date nights a fun twist.

You will be amazed at the magnificent collection of vintage automobiles on display at City Garage Car Museum if you are both passionate about cars and tired of the same old excursions. Another excellent way to take a trip down memory lane with your family is to visit the Greeneville Greene County Museum. An excursion to Buffalo Trail Orchard is also not your typical date night destination. Guests at this family-owned farm have the opportunity to pick their own fresh vegetables, apples, and berries directly from the tree. Check out the Greeneville Antique Market before you leave to purchase quality antiques such as micro mosaic jewelry, furniture, coins, and clothing to take home with you as a memento of Greenville’s rich historical heritage and culture.

12. Jonesborough


In the mood for an anniversary trip, weekend getaway, or honeymoon? Jonesborough is the ideal destination to rekindle the flames of love and passion.

Given that Jonesborough is known as the Storytelling Capital of the World, it goes without saying that the International Storytelling Center is a hidden gem in the city, where you can listen to extraordinary stories and be inspired to tell your own.

Wandering from one booth to another at the Jonesborough Farmers Market with your significant other is a fun way to get to know each other a little bit better.

The Lollipop Shop and The Corner Cup are two places where you can satisfy your sweet tooth while also getting your caffeine fix.

13. Rogersville

Interested in history and prefer to spend your romantic weekend getaways delving into the past with your significant other? If this is the case, the historic town of Rogersville, which is nestled in the heart of Tennessee, should be your first choice.

Many historic sites can be found in downtown Knoxville, including Tennessee’s first post office, “The Knoxville Gazette” (the first newspaper published in Tennessee), the Thomas Amis Historic Site, the home of Davy Crockett’s family, and the burial site of his grandparents.

In addition to participating in Heritage Days, which are held in October, you can see everything from traditional Appalachian music to antique cars, quilts, and farm equipment as well as Civil War reenactments and other demonstrations.

Plan your romantic getaway in Tennessee with a list of top-rated destinations to experience a memorable weekend getaway that will leave you with the best memories.

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