tn tourist map

World Map » USA » State » Tennessee » Large Detailed Tourist Map Of Tennessee With Cities And Towns

Large Detailed Tourist Map of Tennessee With Cities And Towns

You may download, print or use the above map for educational, personal and non-commercial purposes. Attribution is required. For any website, blog, scientific research or e-book, you must place a hyperlink (to this page) with an attribution next to the image used.

• State Capitals
• National Parks

Cities of USA

• New York City
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Washington D.C.
• Philadelphia
• New Orleans
• San Antonio
• Jacksonville
• Indianapolis
• ALL U.S. CITIES

States of USA

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• North America Map
• South America Map
• Oceania Map

Popular maps

• New York City Map
• Los Angeles Map
• Las Vegas Map
• Australia Map
• Germany Map
• Netherlands Map
• Singapore Map
• United Arab Emirates Map
• United Kingdom Map
• United States Map

U.S. States

• Arizona Map
• California Map
• Colorado Map
• Florida Map
• Georgia Map
• Illinois Map
• Indiana Map
• Michigan Map
• New Jersey Map
• New York Map
• North Carolina Map
• Virginia Map
• Wisconsin Map

PRESENTED BY TENNESSEE TOURISM

The essential guide to visiting Tennessee

Here’s everything you need to know before exploring the Volunteer State—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you must visit Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Lookout Mountain . Vibrant big cities and charming small towns. Country music in Nashville and the blues in Memphis . Tennessee whiskey   and Nashville hot chicken .  

Best time to visit

Spring: Warm weather brings colorful wildflowers, blooming magnolias, and flowering redbuds. Enjoy the bloom boom at the Flower   &   Food Festiva l at Dollywood or Nashville ’s Cheekwood . In April, Mule Day in Columbia features livestock races and Appalachian music, crafts, and food.

Summer: There’s a great debate about whether those glow-by-night insects are fireflies or lightning bugs , but regardless, you’ll find them making summer nights in Tennessee a little brighter, particularly in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The state is geographically landlocked, but visitors can still make a splash by launching a boat in Nashville’s Percy Priest Lake , whitewater rafting along East Tennessee’s Nolichucky River , or chasing more than 150 waterfalls in Cookeville .  

Autumn: Leaf peepers will love Tennessee’s orange, red, and golden hues in the fall. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers more than 800 miles of trails to explore by foot, or take a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway that begins in Nashville and winds south into Mississippi . Thanks to colorblind viewfinders , installed at lookouts statewide, more people can see fall foliage.  

Winter: Get cozy during colder months at one of the state’s mountain hotels and resorts. Many flock to Gatlinburg during winter for a chalet stay in the mountains or skiing at Obe r . Other overnight choices include the cabins of Windy Hill Farm , the plush wellness resort Blackberry Farm , or Coffee Ridge Resort , a new mountaintop retreat with a spa, fly-fishing, and lodgings.

Lay of the land

Major cities: Music is the common thread through Tennessee’s biggest cities, with country artists performing in every honky-tonk on Nashville’s Broadway and the blues blaring down Memphis ’ Beale Street . Adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Chattanooga ’s rock climbing and mountain biking, and Knoxville —home to the University of Tennessee —for its forested hiking trails.

Small towns: Johnson City is a jumping-off point for hiking and biking, plus a few sites related to 20th-century mobsters like Al Capone . Visit Franklin   for its     charming   main street lined with shops and restaurants, plus battlefields, hospitals, and historic homes related to the American Civil War .

Tennessee Whiskey Trail:   The   Tennessee Whiskey Trail   maps 26 of the state’s distilleries, including the famed   Jack Daniel’s Distillery   in Lynchburg. Visit the   Nearest Green Distillery   in Shelbyville , which pays tribute to Daniel’s original mentor and the first known African American master distiller, Nathan “Nearest” Green .

Getting around  

By plane: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the state’s largest, with 19 passenger airlines offering routes throughout the United States and nonstop international flights to London , Canada , and Cancun . Memphis International Airport (MEM) offers nonstop flights to cities around the U.S. and Cancun. Smaller regional airports include Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Chattanooga’s Chattanooga Airport (CHA).

By car: Tennessee has more than 1,200 miles of interstate highways , allowing travel by car to major cities and neighboring states. Major routes include I-65 from north to south , I-40 from east to west , and the slow and scenic Natchez Trace Parkway which winds from Nashville to Tupelo, Mississippi.  

By train: Tennessee offers one passenger train route connecting Memphis to both Chicago and New Orleans via Amtrak .

Know before you go

Cultural History: Tennessee is the ancestral homeland of two Indigenous groups: the Chickasaw in the west and the Cherokee in the east. The name Tennessee is derived from a Cherokee village called Tanasi. The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail runs across the state. To learn more about Tennessee’s Indigenous history, discover mounds at Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park in West Tennessee and the Mound Bottom State Archaeological Area near Nashville, or visit the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum that dives into Tennessee’s Cherokee history.  

Tennessee was the last state to join the Confederacy during the American Civil War, though residents in the east remained loyal to the Union. Outside of Virginia , Tennessee saw the most fighting of any state. Many preserved sites are available to visit today, including one of the war’s deadliest battlefields, Shiloh National Military Park .  

Tennessee cast the deciding vote that ratified the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. Nashville’s historic Hermitage Hotel housed the lobbyists from both sides of the suffrage movement and has historic artifacts throughout the property. The state also holds tragic significance in the Civil Rights movement. Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated at Memphis’ Lorraine Motel, which is now the National Civil Rights Museum . Following the Brown   v.   Board of Education   Supreme Court ruling stating state-sanctioned segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, Clinton High School in East Tennessee became the first in the South to integrate classes. Learn more about the tumultuous transition at the Green McAdoo Cultural Center .  

Cuisine: No one leaves Tennessee hungry. Southern soul food and Memphis-style barbecue are primary draws for visitors. Try an iconic “meat and three” plate, choosing between one protein option—usually including fried chicken, catfish, or pot roast—and a collection of vegetables. We use the term “vegetables” loosely here, as options include anything from macaroni and cheese to baked apples and fried okra.  

Festivals: This musical state hosts a range of tuneful festivals, including Bonnaroo Music   &   Arts Festival in Manchester, CMA Fest in Nashville, and Beale Street Music Fest in Memphis (paused for 2024).  

LGBTQ+: In the 2023 24/7 Wall St. report for LGBTQ+ friendly states, Tennessee ranked last. The state’s conservative lawmakers have passed discriminatory bills impacting transgender people and prohibiting public education institutions from requiring implicit bias training. Major cities like Nashville and Memphis regularly host Pride events, such as the Nashville Pride Pageant and the Nashville Pride Festival each June, or run the Rainbow Dash 5K in Memphis each March.  

How to visit sustainably  

Outdoors: Tennessee State Parks have implemented “ Go Green With Us ” guidelines, which focus on conservation and sustainable operations. The program encourages visitors to lower energy usage by turning off lights when not needed, planting trees to provide shade, and unplugging appliances when not in use, along with efforts like planting community gardens and using sustainably produced and packaged products.  

Dining: With vast farmlands in Tennessee, it’s not difficult to find restaurants that source their ingredients locally. Try Nashville’s Miel , which saved more than 12,000 pounds of compostable material from landfills in 2023, or The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge. Dating from 1830, The Old Mill grinds 700,000 pounds of corn, grits, and other grains annually to be used in breads, sweets, and spirits. Plus the restaurant makes its own ice creams, jams, confections, and even pottery pieces for serving.  

Lodging: Southall Farm   &   Inn in Leiper’s Fork collects rainfall to water its grounds and serves produce and meat grown onsite in its restaurants.  

What to read and watch

Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business , by Dolly Parton. The country music icon’s autobiography details her rags-to-riches story growing up in the foothills of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains.  

There are many music themed shows and biopics that focus on Tennessee artists both real and fictional, including the story of Johnny Cash in Walk the Line , the TV series Nashville , and the 2022 blockbuster Elvis .  

Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest , by Fawn Weaver. This 2024 summer release explores the forgotten history of the enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel to make whiskey.  

( For more tips on what to do in Tennessee, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• FOOD TOURISM

You May Also Like

The essential guide to visiting Scotland

The essential guide to visiting Alaska

The essential guide to visiting Ireland

The essential guide to visiting North Carolina

The essential guide to visiting Maine

How to experience Tennessee like a local

The essential guide to visiting Estonia

• Environment
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Gory Details
• 2023 in Review
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

USPS suggests the address below

Tennessee map, time to upgrade your browser.

If you're reading this, you're surfing using Internet Explorer 6, an eight-year-old browser that cannot cope with the demands of the modern, secure internet. For the best web experience, we strongly recommend upgrading to Firefox , Opera , Safari , Google Chrome , or a more recent version of Internet Explorer .

• Tennessee Destinations
• Visit Other States
• Visit Other Countries

Laced by rivers, edged by lakes and framed by the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville is part urban hub complete with cultural attractions and part portal for adventure on nearby peaks.

• Things To Do - Overview
• Tour Companies
• Tourist Attractions
• Attractions
• Scenic Drives
• Scenic Flights
• Sightseeing Tours
• Horseback Riding
• Houseboating
• Offroad - ATV
• Climbing / Canyoneering
• RV Parks Camping
• Skiing - Boarding
• Snowmobiling
• White Water Rafting
• X-Country Skiing

• Lodging - Hotels, Resorts, etc.
• RV Parks - Campgrounds
• Restaurants

Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price.

• Transportation
• State Facts
• Tourism Resources

• Tennessee Photo Gallery

Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Tennessee Area. Click here to view all the guides avialable for Tennessee.

• Connecticut
• Development
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington D.C.
• West Virginia

Our Vacation and Travel Guide provides complete information on all the major tourist destinations in Tennessee, including all major cities, National Parks, State Parks, Recreation Areas, and more.

Please use the interactive map below to start exploring travel destinations in Tennessee. Scroll down for a list of Tennessee destinations, or open up a complete list of all Tennessee destinations in a Movable Pop-up Box .

• Appalachian Mtns
• Big South Fork
• Chattanooga
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Land Between the Lakes
• Pigeon Forge
• Bowling Green
• Clarksville
• Hopkinsville
• Johnson City
• Murfreesboro
• Southwest Virginia
• Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort
• Dale Hollow Lake
• Mississippi River Delta
• Mount Rogers
• Norris Lake
• Reelfoot Lake
• Tennessee River
• Watts Bar Lake

Javascript is required to view this map. Please enable javascript in your browser if it is disabled, or view our full list of Tennessee destinations.

• Major ★
• Cities/Towns
• Ski Resorts
• Mtns, Lakes, Rivers
• National Parks
• Advertising
• Privacy Policy
• Report a Problem
• Make A Suggestion

• Go Travel Sites
• Houseboating.org

Email Page Link

Switch to Mobile Browser Mode

We offer a compact version of Go-Tennessee for mobile users, allowing you to access just the information you need on the road. Of course, you can still use the full version of Go-Tennessee on your mobile device just as you can on your desktop.

Continue to Mobile Site Return to Main Site

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tennessee

Written by Catherine Hawkins and Colin J. McMechan Updated May 11, 2023

If you're one of many travelers who believe the most visited national parks in the United States are the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, or Yosemite, you've probably never visited Tennessee. You may be surprised to learn that the number one most visited US national park is, in fact, the Great Smoky Mountains or "Smokies."

This area of outstanding natural beauty in the "Volunteer State" sees nearly three times as many visitors each year as its nearest rival, the Grand Canyon. Much of Tennessee's popularity is due to its accessibility, being surrounded by eight other states. It also has much to do with its astonishing natural beauty, rich history, and first-rate attractions.

There's also the music. From the rock 'n' roll legacy of Elvis Presley to country stars such as Johnny Cash, Tennessee was the starting place for many of America's greatest artists and musical genres. Discover the top scenic and music-related sites, as well as civil war sites and national landmarks with our list of top tourist attractions in Tennessee.

1. The Smokies: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2. graceland, memphis, 3. dollywood, pigeon forge, 4. nashville: music city usa, 5. home of the blues: memphis, 6. the titanic museum, pigeon forge, 7. national civil rights museum, memphis, 8. tennessee aquarium, chattanooga, 9. andrew jackson's hermitage, 10. lookout mountain, chattanooga, 11. tennessee's civil war heritage, 12. downtown knoxville, 13. chattanooga and the tennessee valley railroad, 14. the parthenon, nashville, 15. american museum of science and energy, oak ridge, 16. the museum of appalachia.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a standout attraction in Tennessee that blends adventure with world-class scenery. From downtown Gatlinburg, you can easily drive to the park's most popular places to visit and things to do . Another option is to jump on the chairlift and head for the hills at Ober Gatlinburg , a ski resort and amusement park offering year-round activities.

Take the scenic drive to the Top of Old Smoky—6,643-foot-high Clingmans Dome— and walk the short, steep ascent to its Observation Tower with 360-degree views. If you are coming for hiking and sightseeing, the best time to visit the Smoky Mountains is spring until fall with winter a close runner-up.

Apart from scenic drives, park highlights include more than 850 miles of hiking trails and auto routes. For intermediate hikers, the trail to the top of Mount LeConte is a peak experience. For a more leisurely tour, drive around Cades Cove Loop to see picturesque meadows, pioneer homesteads, mountain views, and wildlife. The road trip takes between two and four hours, depending on how many other cars are out there.

Enjoy overnight camping in the park , or book a rustic cabin in the woods for your mountain getaway.

Visiting Great Smoky Mountain National Park is one of the top things to do in Tennessee . Be sure not to miss it.

Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

As popular as the White House in Washington D.C., Graceland is one of the top attractions in the historic city of Memphis . The most famous rock 'n' roll residence in the world, Graceland Mansion is a place of pilgrimage for fans from far and wide. Tours of this fine stately home provide a glimpse into the life of The King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley . Much of the property is the same, or restored to, as it was when he passed away at Graceland in 1977.

Elvis Presley's Memphis is a vast warehouse-like structure that includes exhibits and displays. You'll marvel at flashy costumes and learn about the influences on his meteoric rise to fame. Check out the family tomb where fans have been moved to tears. See an impressive collection of Elvis cars, aircraft, and memorabilia. Tour his living quarters, including the music room, TV room, and Jungle Den.

A variety of tour packages are offered, including accommodation at the luxurious The Guest House at Graceland. For those interested in a virtual visit, numerous fun interactive exhibits and online tours can be experienced on the Graceland website.

Address: 3717 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, Tennessee

Named after country singer Dolly Parton (who owns the park), Dollywood has long been Tennessee's most popular ticketed attraction, luring more than three million visitors per year. One of the top attractions in Pigeon Forge , this thriving 160-acre theme park provides family fun with its mix of folksy Smoky Mountains traditions and crafts, thrilling rides, and musical entertainment.

Dollywood has more than 50 rides—nine of them roller coasters, including the popular Tennessee Tornado—spread across 11 themed areas. These areas represent the culture and history of east Tennessee and include Timber Canyon, Country Fair, and Jukebox Junction.

Other highlights include live concerts, festivals, and an authentic coal-fired steam train—the Dollywood Express —that circles the park. Make a day of it and include Splash Country water park.

Keep in mind that Dollywood closes from January through mid-March to prepare for the upcoming season, so plan your visit accordingly.

Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

No American state can claim the rich musical tapestry that is evident everywhere in Tennessee. Nashville is home to important music-related attractions, including the Grand Ole Opry House and the Ryman Auditorium . The Ryman, built in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, is also known as the Mother Church of Country Music. It was the original Opry and setting for live radio broadcasts that put the Opry on the musical map.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and granite stars embedded in the sidewalk across the street celebrate famous celebrities in country music. These attractions are located within easy walking distance of the Ryman.

Take the tour of the hall of fame that includes a visit to RCA's Studio B on Music Row and the thrill of standing where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and Willie Nelson made recordings. Walk the "music mile" along Music Row and see the headquarters of the country music biz.

You can continue to feel the rhythm of Nashville at its other musical attractions, including the Johnny Cash Museum, Glen Campbell Museum and Rhinestone Stage , Gallery of Iconic Guitars at Belmont , and Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nashville

Beale Street , located in downtown Memphis, is the home of blues music. This famous historic street is where Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Memphis Minnie got their big break as performers. Highlights on and around Beale Street include the Memphis Music Hall of Fame ; the Smithsonian's Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum; and WC Handy Home and Museum , a tribute to the Father of the Blues.

Be sure to add the STAX Museum of American Soul , with its replica of the original Stax Records studio, to your must-see itinerary of the most legendary music attractions in Memphis. Another iconic attraction is Sun Studio , known as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll. Your tour guide will regale you with stories about Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King, and Roy Orbison—all recorded here. This is where 18-year-old Elvis famously told music maker Sam Phillips: "I don't sound like nobody."

A treasure trove of memories and artifacts from the RMS Titanic comes to life at the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge—the largest of its kind in the world. Entering the museum, you feel like you're boarding the original vessel; it's built in the shape of the ship at half the scale of the original.

Highlights include more than 400 Titanic-related artifacts in 20 galleries designed to create the illusion that you're actually on the ship. Self-guided tours take approximately two hours. Following Titanic events in chronological order, you learn about the ship's design and the 10,000 skilled craftsmen and laborers who constructed it. Marvel at rare photos of the Titanic setting out to sea on its ill-fated maiden voyage.

Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis is a national treasure and one of the most compelling attractions in Tennessee. The museum features hundreds of artifacts spread over two buildings, including the Lorraine Motel —the designated historic site where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in April 1968.

Stand in the room where assassin James Earl Ray pulled the trigger that ended King's life. The history of these dramatic days, including motivational theories, will rivet your attention. View artifacts on display, and watch 40 short videos, oral histories, and interactive media. Plan to spend a minimum of two to three hours at this attraction.

Your self-guided tour of the museum covers five centuries of civil rights history, including slavery, reconstruction after the Civil War, Jim Crow segregation, 1950s Birmingham bus boycott and Rosa Parks protest, and 1960s marches and sit-ins. The museum is educational, inspirational, and an enduring challenge to achieve racial equality.

Address: 450 Mulberry Street, Memphis, Tennessee

The Tennessee Aquarium has been educating visitors about water creatures and ecosystems for 30 years. Situated on the banks of the Tennessee River, the aquarium immerses you in two experiences: The River Journey and Ocean Journey. These riparian and marine habitats are contained in enormous tanks, with the biggest one holding 618,000 gallons. Featuring around 800 species, the Tennessee Aquarium is the largest in the state.

Staff engages visitors in hands-on learning. You will be thrilled—or repelled—when feeling the backs of stingrays as they glide by you in open touch tanks. Wave to submerged scuba divers who direct your attention to colorful fish and giant octopuses. Whether you are drawn to the river or the ocean, the Tennessee Aquarium is sure to enhance your passion for life in these magical environments.

Address: 1 Broad Street, Chattanooga, Tennessee

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chattanooga, TN

Just a few miles east of Nashville is Andrew Jackson's Hermitage , the plantation home of the seventh US President from 1804 to 1845. The current home was built in 1819, not long before Jackson was elected president, and is well worth the couple of hours needed to explore it.

Highlights include the park-like gardens and woods, as well as the tomb where both Jackson and his wife were laid to rest. The mansion opened as a museum in 1889, making it one of the country's first presidential museums. After a great deal of restoration, looks exactly as it would have during Jackson's retirement, complete with numerous artifacts and documents relating to his presidency.

Address: 4580 Rachel's Lane, Nashville, Tennessee

Overlooking Chattanooga and offering some of Tennessee's best views, Lookout Mountain is an excellent day- or half-day outing. Natural attractions include the gardens and High Falls at Rock City just across the border in Georgia and Ruby Falls —the tallest and deepest accessible underground waterfall in the United States .

Getting to Lookout Mountain can be half the fun when you take the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway , a mile-long journey on a trolley-style car that travels at an incline of up to 73 percent.

Once at the top of the railway, Point Park Battlefield of the Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park is nearby. Visit Battles for Chattanooga Electric Map and Museum . Its displays relate to the epic Battle Above the Clouds, fought in and around Chattanooga during the Civil War.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Chattanooga

Tennessee, the last state to join the Confederacy, was divided in its Civil War loyalties. The west and middle part of the state were allied with Confederate forces, while the east sided with Union soldiers.

As one of the most northerly of the Confederate states, Tennessee witnessed numerous battles during the four-year conflict, many of which are commemorated by visitor centers, museums, cemeteries, and memorials.

Fort Donelson National Battlefield is the site of one of the first major Union victories and home to a cemetery, fort, and visitor center. Shiloh National Military Park comprises 6,000 acres on the site of the two-day battle that took place in 1862. The first significant Civil War battle in the Western Theater happened at Shiloh, which includes a cemetery with more than 3,500 Union graves.

Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park , the country's largest military park, is historically significant in the Civil War. The 9,500-acre park was where the battle took place that signaled the end of the Confederacy.

Knoxville is a comfortable base from which to go sightseeing and explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The first capital of the state, its most noticeable landmark is the Sunsphere . An icon of Knoxville's skyline, the Sunsphere is in the heart of the 1982 World's Fair Park. Catch impressive 360-degree views of downtown Knoxville and the mountains from its observation deck on the fourth floor.

Vibrant South Gay Street includes interactive exhibits in the Museum of East Tennessee History . This is also the place to catch headlining concerts and Broadway-style shows in the elegant Tennessee Theatre —the Official State Theatre of Tennessee. It was dubbed "the South's most beautiful theater" when it opened in October 1928.

One block west of Gay Street is Market Square —Knoxville's favorite gathering place since 1854. Today, it's home to a busy farmers' market, events, and festivals, as well as shopping and dining. Adjacent to the square is Krutch Park, a quiet green space to rest and appreciate contemporary works of public art.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Knoxville

Tennessee has had a lengthy love affair with the railroad. During the Civil War, the Southern Confederate Army relied on railways to transport military supplies. In peacetime, railways and rivers were vital for shipping wood and cotton.

The rich railway heritage of Tennessee has been preserved throughout the state. The most notable relics are the terminal and an engine from the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo . In Jackson, visit the museum dedicated to the legendary railroad engineer, John Luther "Casey" Jones.

One of the most ambitious restoration projects is the Tennessee Valley Railroad or TVR. The TVR offers tourist excursions in the countryside near Chattanooga and along the Hiwassee River in the Smoky Mountains. The Three Rivers Rambler in Knoxville uses a historic coal-fired steam engine locomotive to take you 11 miles along three rivers, including the Tennessee. Hop aboard one of these trains and take advantage of their ride-and-dine packages.

No visit to Nashville would be complete without visiting the huge Parthenon . One of Tennessee's most remarkable attractions, it is the centerpiece of Centennial Park, a short walk from the city's downtown core. This impressive life-size replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece was built over the course of 10 years, opening in 1931.

Made of brick, stone, and concrete, the Parthenon impresses with its vast dimensions, inside and out. The building houses the city's permanent art gallery, a collection of works by 19th- and 20th-century American painters, as well as a spectacular 42-foot gold-covered statue of the goddess Athena Parthenos. The Parthenon is on the National Register of Historic Places .

Address: 2500 West End Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee

The American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge offers a fascinating insight into the history of nuclear energy. Located 24 miles west of Knoxville, the museum highlights the central role of Oak Ridge in the Manhattan Project to develop the first atomic bomb.

View videos, photos, artifacts, and documents about this vast facility. Learn how it evolved over time as an important center for scientific research and innovation. Fun hands-on displays of static electricity and robotics engage visitors of all ages.

Address: 115 E Main Street, Oak Ridge, Tennessee

The Museum of Appalachia is a large open-air attraction that focuses on the people who settled the Appalachian Mountains and is one of the best heritage villages in the United States . The museum allows you to explore the past through hands-on activities, such as weaving and farming. You'll come away with an enhanced appreciation of mountain culture, livelihoods, and customs.

With more than 250,000 artifacts in its collection spread over 65 pastoral acres, the Museum of Appalachia is 6.6 miles north of Clinton, one of the best small towns in Tennessee . An impressive array of baskets, home furnishings, musical instruments, folk art, and farm machinery await you.

When you're hungry, you can tuck into Southern Appalachian country cooking at the museum's restaurant.

Address: 2819 Andersonville Hwy, Clinton, Tennessee

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Outdoor Adventures in Tennessee: The state of Tennessee offers plenty of great outdoor adventures. Those interested in fly fishing in Tennessee are particularly well-catered to thanks to the 22,000-plus miles of streams and reservoirs. And hikers, bikers, campers, and skiers are among the many outdoor enthusiasts who flock to Great Smoky Mountains National Park , drawn by an abundance of wilderness to explore.

Places to Visit Close to Tennessee : The beautiful state of Kentucky lies to the north of Tennessee and offers many attractions and points of interest worth visiting. Must-dos include attending the Kentucky Derby in Louisville and visiting The Kentucky Horse Park, as well as pretty natural attractions like Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and Daniel Boone National Forest.

Southern US Vacation Ideas : There's certainly no shortage of awesome vacation experiences to enjoy in the South. The state of Georgia offers exciting opportunities, including the many wonderful attractions of Savannah . Here you can book a classy boutique hotel, which may once have been a grand family home, explore the lush parks with their elegant fountains, and walk enchanting cobbled streets lined with great shops and dining establishments.

More on Tennessee

Protect Your Trip »

35 top things to do in tennessee.

Get inspired to plan your next vacation to the Volunteer State.

Top Things to Do in Tennessee

Getty Images

Spend a few days exploring several top destinations or take an epic vacation to experience all that the great state of Tennessee has to offer.

Tennessee's abundant beauty, rich history and music culture are just a few reasons to visit the Volunteer State. There are also natural wonders, outdoor adventures and top-notch attractions beckoning nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. During your visit, be sure to sample the state's famous barbecue, sip a little whiskey, listen to some live music and enjoy a healthy dose of Southern hospitality along the way. Here's a list of the must-see Tennessee attractions and experiences.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

With more than 522,000 acres of forest, mountains, waterfalls and wildlife stretching across Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. The park boasts 850 miles of backcountry trails and features about 70 miles of the Appalachian Trail: Top hikes include the 5.4-mile round trip to Rainbow Falls and a steep climb up to the summit of Chimney Tops for sweeping mountain views. Also not to be missed is Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park – and in Tennessee – at more than 6,600 feet in elevation. Note that the road to the tower is closed during the winter months.

Thousands of species of animals and plant life flourish in the park, including elk, deer, black bears and more than 1,600 varieties of wildflowers. For a fully immersive Great Smoky Mountains experience, make reservations to camp: Cades Cove Campground is situated in a gorgeous valley with ample wildlife-watching opportunities and an 11-mile route you can explore by car, bicycle or on foot.

See more of Great Smoky Mountains National Park:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Courtesy of The Peabody Memphis

Known to many as the birthplace of both the blues and rock 'n' roll, Memphis is all about music. Top-rated attractions include Beale Street (where live music venues abound), the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, Graceland, Sun Studio and more. Sun Studio visitors say that the former recording studio, though small, packs in a lot of information, and listening to the old music clips from legends like Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis is priceless.

The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel is another one of the city's top attractions, along with a riverboat cruise on the "Mighty" Mississippi. Book accommodations at The Peabody Memphis and watch the famous Peabody Ducks as they strut their stuff down the lobby's red carpet to the hotel fountain daily. When it comes to Tennessee barbecue, grab lunch or dinner across from The Peabody at the iconic Rendezvous, which has been serving up Memphis-style ribs since 1948.

See more of Memphis:  Things to Do | Tours |  Hotels

Fans from all over the world make the pilgrimage to Graceland to visit the home of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley. The bustling entertainment complex in Memphis boasts 120 acres of museums and memorabilia dedicated to the legendary performer. You'll need tickets to access Graceland and its collections of Elvis' cars, jets, jumpsuits and other artifacts. Consider splurging on the "Ultimate VIP Tour" package for an expert-led tour of Graceland Mansion as well as access to a VIP-only exhibit and other exclusive perks that travelers say are worth the money. Recent visitors also recommend allowing for at least half a day to see most everything.

Movie fans may want to visit Graceland for the "Making of ELVIS Movie Exhibition." Open through Sept. 4, 2023, this special exhibit features behind-the-scenes insight into the making of the film, along with props, costumes worn by the actors and set pieces. After you explore, plan to stay at The Guest House at Graceland to enjoy all of the highlights, memorabilia, Elvis-themed events and live concerts.

Address: 3717 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis, TN 38116

Read: The Best Graceland Tours and Tips for Visiting

Country music fan favorites in the city of Nashville include the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium and the Johnny Cash Museum. Head to famous honky-tonks along Broadway like the iconic Tootsie's Orchid Lounge and Robert's Western World to see up-and-coming artists and maybe even get a chance celebrity sighting. Then, duck into themed signature bars and restaurants owned by top country artists like Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton and Dierks Bentley (plus a Garth Brooks-owned bar slated to open in 2023).

While on Broadway, visit the National Museum of African American Music to learn about a variety of genres. For the full Nashville experience, visit one of the city's famed listening rooms, such as the legendary Bluebird Cafe, where songwriters including the likes of Taylor Swift and Keith Urban perform original songs and share stories.

But there's more to Music City than its tunes. Reserve a room at The Union Station Nashville Yards – favored by visitors for its historic architecture and prime location near downtown – then bring your appetite to Assembly Food Hall. The building features international and locally inspired eateries, cocktails, incredible rooftop views and live music. You'll also want to set aside time to visit more of the city's museums, including the Parthenon replica, Frist Art Museum and the Tennessee State Museum. Venture to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, where history and botanical experiences await, and end your Nashville adventure with a dinner showboat cruise on the General Jackson.

See more of Nashville:  Things to Do  | Tours  |  Hotels

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Courtesy of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

History enthusiasts and country music devotees alike will appreciate the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , a top Nashville attraction. A stop at the three-story building begins with exploring the museum gallery's permanent and rotating exhibits, which highlight the genre from its early beginnings to country music's biggest celebrities. You'll see a variety of clothing, instruments and memorabilia such as Elvis Presley's Gold Cadillac and Garth Brooks' guitar, interspersed with sound and video clips. There's a wall of gold and platinum albums, plus the Hall of Fame Rotunda with plaques of all the inductees. Before your visit, be sure to check the calendar for "Songwriter Sessions" in the museum's Ford Theater, concerts in the CMA Theater or special programs in the Taylor Swift Education Center.

While at the museum, consider a Hatch Show Print tour to explore a working letterpress print shop dating back to 1879. If you're looking to stay nearby, the Omni Nashville is connected via indoor walkway to the museum. What's more, you can add a tour of RCA Studio B (a short shuttle ride away to Music Row) to learn more about the recording process and get a music history lesson detailing all the artists from Elvis to Dolly Parton who recorded within those walls.

Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville, TN 37203

Pigeon Forge

This little mountain town at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains has kept families entertained with thrill rides, outdoor activities, music and dining for many years. Pigeon Forge may be best known for Dollywood, but many other tourist attractions and culinary options are worth exploring as well. Roller coaster enthusiasts will want to check out Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show & Adventure Park, home to the zip line coaster Flying Ox.

The Island in Pigeon Forge is another family-friendly entertainment center that has rides, escape rooms, shopping and dining. Be sure to take a spin on SkyFly: Soar America, an indoor theater adventure that soars high above iconic U.S. locations. While in town, plan to stay at The Inn on the River Hotel. Situated on 3 acres on the Little Pigeon River, this property is a traveler favorite for its great hospitality and close proximity to restaurants, shopping and top attractions.

See more of Pigeon Forge:  Things to Do  | Dinner Shows |  Hotels

Courtesy of Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

Named after, inspired by and partially owned by country star Dolly Parton, Pigeon Forge's Dollywood offers 160 acres of kid-friendly thrill rides, live shows, entertainment and plenty of Southern-inspired dining. In May, the park will debut Big Bear Mountain − its longest roller coaster at almost 4,000 feet, themed around the region's black bears. Dollywood's Splash Country, the water park, features mountain views, a 1,500-foot lazy river and exciting waterslides.

Stay nearby at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort or opt for one of the property's luxury log cabins. If you're visiting in late 2023 or beyond, consider Parton's second resort, HeartSong Lodge & Resort, scheduled to open in November. Guests of DreamMore enjoy comfortable accommodations and various dining options; those with a valid Dollywood ticket receive a TimeSaver Pass, complimentary transportation from the parks and other amenities. Travelers appreciate all the family entertainment and the friendly staff.

Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

See: The Best Water Parks in the USA

Chattanooga

Chattanooga sits on the banks of the Tennessee River in the Appalachian Mountains, bordering Georgia. The city boasts impressive museums, a vibrant downtown area, and lively shopping and arts districts. Major attractions in Chattanooga include the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Zoo, Lookout Mountain and the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, the oldest and largest of the U.S. Civil War parks. Save time to explore the city's railroad heritage too, with a stay at the Chattanooga Choo Choo , a railway station-turned-hotel, as well as train rides at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

"Coolidge Park is a must in Chattanooga – particularly if you're visiting with kids," recommends Amanda Norcross , travel content and SEO strategist at U.S. News. "The interactive water fountains are so much fun and the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day." She also notes how easy it is to get around Chattanooga: "The Chattanooga Riverwalk essentially connects all of the city's top attractions and neighborhoods, and there's always some type of event (or several) going on by the water – concerts, festivals, you name it."

See more of Chattanooga:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Tennessee Aquarium

Take a journey from the mountains to the sea at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. In one building, explore the mountains and rivers of east Tennessee in River Journey, then travel to the sea in Ocean Journey (a building all its own). With more than 10,000 animals here, you can expect to see river otters, lemurs, penguins, sharks, colorful fish and octopuses. In the "River Giants" exhibit, there are freshwater fish from around the world that grow to monstrous proportions. What's more, the "Turtle of the World" gallery has the most extensive collection of turtles of any accredited zoo or aquarium in the U.S.

For a real treat, book the guided "Deeper Dives" tour, which takes you behind the scenes before the aquarium opens. You'll also want to catch an immersive show at the IMAX Theater. Patrons call the Tennessee Aquarium a world-class facility, with some even praising it as one of the best aquariums they've visited.

Address: 1 Broad St., Chattanooga, TN 37402

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail in Tennessee

Jeffrey S. Otto | Courtesy of Tennessee Department of Tourist Development & Journal Communications

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail covers 15 states and more than 100 locations that were significant to the civil rights movement – and you'll find more than a dozen of these locales in Tennessee. In Memphis, visit a handful of sites including the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel as well as Clayborn Temple next to I AM A MAN Plaza, where sanitation workers protested in 1968. Then, travel a little more than 200 miles northeast to visit Nashville's seven stops, ranging from the Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library to the National Museum of African American Music .

Complete your journey across the state in Clinton, about 175 miles east of Nashville, to learn about the Clinton 12 at the Green McAdoo Cultural Center. After the Supreme Court's Brown v. Board of Education ruling, these 12 Black students stepped inside an all-white public high school in August 1956, making it the first integrated school in the South. Visitors to the cultural center say it's very well done and expressed that their visit was a moving experience.

Titanic Museum Attraction

Courtesy of Titanic Museum Attraction

Owned and curated by the man who co-led the diving expedition to the Titanic in 1987, this impressive museum in Pigeon Forge brings the history of the legendary ship to life. The top-rated Titanic Museum Attraction houses artifacts from the Titanic Historical Society, maintaining more than 400 relics and memorabilia from the ship.

The exterior of the building is about half-scale of the actual ship size, but the interior re-created rooms are true to life. Inside, you'll find an exact replica of the Grand Staircase as well as galleries filled with information about the ship and stories from survivors. There's even a Memorial Room dedicated to the more than 2,200 passengers and crew members. Travelers suggest spending at least two hours here to hear the emotional stories of the survivors and better understand what happened that fateful evening in April 1912.

Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Lookout Mountain

Situated just minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain's attractions focus on the immediate area's natural beauty. Located deep within the mountain, Ruby Falls has the tallest and deepest underground waterfall in the U.S. Explore the cave and the falls on a tour, after which you can brave the climbing tower or a zip line adventure. The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway will also get your adrenaline pumping as the more than 125-year-old funicular railway climbs Lookout Mountain. After a mile-long ride, hop off at the top of the mountain to take in the views of the Tennessee Valley from the overlook at the observation deck.

Just over the state line, Rock City Gardens, one of the top things to do in Georgia , boasts panoramic views and other attractions atop Lookout Mountain. "Rock City Gardens is especially fun at Christmastime, when it hosts the Enchanted Garden of Lights," Norcross says. "The Fairyland Caverns display feels almost otherworldly!" Other travelers say Lookout Mountain is worth a visit and the vantage point from the mountaintop is incredible.

Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Since pre-Civil War times, Tennessee has long been known for its whiskey. Today, there are more than 30 distilleries and 800-plus miles of scenic landscapes to cover on the statewide Tennessee Whiskey Trail. In fact, the trail's official website estimates you'll need 14 days to visit all the spots, and you can register for an analog or digital whiskey passport to collect stamps. The complete itinerary includes stops in and around Nashville, Knoxville, the Smoky Mountains, Chattanooga and Memphis. Be sure not to miss the Lynchburg and Tullahoma area, home to the historic George Dickel and Jack Daniel's distilleries.

In between stops, check out Civil War battlegrounds, live music venues, local food favorites and hidden gems in smaller towns, as well as state parks with outdoor adventures. For accommodations in Memphis, consider staying at the outdoor-themed, pyramid-shaped Big Cypress Lodge , which affords views of the Mississippi River. The historic Hermitage Hotel is a top choice in Nashville, while in the Knoxville area The Oliver Hotel is a traveler favorite due to its close proximity to Market Square.

The Parthenon

Located in Centennial Park in Nashville's West End, the Parthenon is the only exact replica in the world of the ancient temple in Athens, Greece . Regarded as the park's centerpiece, the Parthenon was constructed as a temporary structure in 1897 to celebrate 100 years of Tennessee statehood. In 1920, after Nashville had been known for years as the "Athens of the South," the Parthenon was rebuilt with the help of a local architect and an architectural historian.

Since the 1930s, the Parthenon has hosted rotating art exhibits in its galleries; today, as Nashville's art museum, it continues to feature temporary exhibitions and shows. The museum's permanent collections include paintings by 19th- and 20th-century American artists as well as 14 casts of the Parthenon Marbles. You'll also find an impressive replica of the Athena Parthenos statue from ancient Greece. The Parthenon and this statue are a must-see, according to traveler reviews.

Address: 2500 West End Ave., Nashville, TN 37203

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest

The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is one of the beloved events that takes place during the Memphis in May International Festival. The contest dates back to 1978, when it began in a parking lot with just 20 teams. In 2022, the four-day event brought more than 200 competition cooking teams from 24 states and four foreign countries to compete. So, if you're craving all things pork and want to see unique themed team tents and live entertainment while having a bit of over-the-top fun, head to Tom Lee Park along the banks of the Mississippi River in May. In 2023, the festival will run from May 17 to 20.

Josh Brasted | Courtesy of Country Music Association

June is also a busy month in Tennessee, with the four-day CMA Fest as one of the top events in the state. The annual Nashville event began as Fan Fair with 5,000 people in attendance; tens of thousands of attendees now come from all over to see more than 260 performers. The fan-favorite event is celebrating 50 years in 2023, and attendees can see award-winning and chart-topping artists like Carly Pearce, Lainey Wilson, Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Tim McGraw – as well as emerging country artists. The event takes place in downtown Nashville and features six daytime and two nighttime stages, including larger venues like Nissan Stadium alongside indoor venues at Music City Center. You also won't want to miss the neon lights of the honky-tonks and festivities along Nashville's famous entertainment district on Broadway Street.

"Travelers should expect a party atmosphere if they choose to visit Nashville during CMA Fest," says Marisa Méndez , a senior travel editor at U.S. News and CMA Fest attendee. "You'll encounter massive crowds of music fans (with expensive hotel rates to boot) and the tradeoff is a slew of excellent concerts. If you aren't a diehard country music fan or you dislike massive crowds (like me!) then choose another time to visit."

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Set off from Nashville on a scenic journey along this 444-mile recreational road. Meandering through three states, this national parkway roughly follows the "Old Natchez Trace," a historic route once used by Indigenous people, European settlers, soldiers and more. Along the way, travelers can experience camping, biking, hiking and horseback riding while soaking in all the natural beauty. There are a variety of short trails along the parkway to explore waterfalls, natural wonders and historic landmarks.

The Lost Sea

Jeff Adkins | Courtesy of Journal Communications Inc.

Travel 140 feet below ground to see the largest underground lake in America. The aptly named Lost Sea sits about 50 miles southwest of Knoxville in Sweetwater. The 75-minute guided tour begins with a short walk that past travelers say can be challenging, so wear comfortable nonslip shoes. As the guides explain the history of the cavern, you'll learn how geological factors created the rare formations and cavern rooms. At the end of the tour, hop on a boat ride to see the clear waters of this 70-foot-deep lake spread across more than 13 acres of water. Visitors comment that walking through the cave is a great experience, but seeing the lake is what's truly worth the price of admission.

A stop in Sweetwater could be a daytrip from Knoxville, but you can also linger longer by renting a cabin or cottage. Sweetwater's historic district has unique shops and boutiques to peruse, and don't miss a visit to Sweetwater Valley Farm's cafe to enjoy farm-fresh dairy specialties.

Address: 140 Lost Sea Road, Sweetwater, TN 37874

Located around 20 miles south of downtown Nashville, Franklin is a must-visit for history buffs, shoppers and music lovers alike. The Battle of Franklin – one of the Civil War's bloodiest battles – occurred here, and visitors can learn all about it with a trip to the well-preserved Civil War sites of Carnton, Carter House and the Lotz House. The 16-block historic downtown is an idyllic destination for shopping, dining, intimate songwriter rounds, art and special events. For a classic Southern meal, grab a bite to eat at Puckett's Restaurant with its laid-back atmosphere and live music.

Consider an overnight stay at The Harpeth, where travelers say the staff and accommodations are exceptional; many also praise the on-site bar and restaurant. Vinophiles may want to venture to some of middle Tennessee's vineyards, including the award-winning Arrington Vineyards. You can sample the wines, have an outdoor picnic and catch live music on weekends in the warmer months.

The Memphis Zoo

Phillip Van Zandt | Courtesy of The Memphis Zoo

Located in Memphis' Overton Park, the Memphis Zoo has been a major attraction since 1906. The zoo's property covers nearly 80 acres and is home to more than 500 species of animals that reside in various zones and exhibits. In Cat Country, you can view elusive snow leopards, African lions and near-threated jaguars. The China exhibition encompasses 3 acres and features Asian wildlife including Francois langurs and Sulawesi crested macaques.

See: The Best Zoos in the U.S.

The Hermitage

Courtesy of The Andrew Jackson Foundation

Located about 10 miles northeast of Nashville, The Hermitage – not to be confused with Nashville's Hermitage Hotel – is a 1,120-acre property and mansion that President Andrew Jackson and his wife, Rachel, once called home. Jackson lived at The Hermitage from 1804 – when he purchased the property as a 425-acre plantation, relying on the labor of enslaved Black people – until his death in 1845. Over the years, the mansion has undergone extensive renovations and additions.

Today, the house features most of Jackson's personal artifacts. Several tour options of the mansion and its grounds are available, including two different tours that teach visitors about the lives of the enslaved men, women and children who worked on this plantation and generated Jackson's wealth. Travelers say the tours are a very informative and educational experience; they also appreciate how much history is preserved at the property. Don't miss the exhibits at the visitor center, and before leaving be sure to sample wines from the Natchez Hills Vineyard and Winery tasting room at The Hermitage.

Address: 4580 Rachel's Lane, Hermitage, TN 37076

Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is the perfect base for outdoor adventure. The Sugarlands entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just outside of downtown, but there's many exciting things to do while in this part of east Tennessee. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area offers year-round family fun with amusement rides, an aerial tramway, ice skating, snow tubing, skiing and other activities. Many patrons enjoy this attraction, though they warn it can get overcrowded, so aim for weekdays and other off-peak times.

During your jaunt in Gatlinburg you can also visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, walk a 680-foot-long suspension bridge at Skylift Park, and zip to the top of Anakeesta theme park on the Chondola. For an extended stay, make reservations at the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg or The Lodge at Buckberry Creek , two of the top hotels in Gatlinburg . Then, wake up early to beat the crowds at the iconic Pancake Pantry, Tennessee's first specialty pancake restaurant.

Spend the night in a treehouse

Courtesy of Sanctuary Treehouse Resort

Opened in spring 2023, Sanctuary Treehouse Resort is touted as the largest treehouse resort in the world. Set amid 40 acres of picturesque land in the Smoky Mountains, the property has a variety of luxurious treehouses for couples and families, with whimsical amenities like rope swings, escape hatches, slides and hidden beds. Located on two championship golf courses, the property is ideally situated near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Resort guests can choose from three types of tree houses, including the family-friendly Tree Fort with room for up to six guests, as well as the Luxe, which is geared toward couples with an outdoor tub.

Address: 107 Pheasant Ridge Road, Sevierville, TN 37876

Learn about Native American history

Courtesy of Sequoyah Birthplace Museum

Native Americans have inhabited the land of Tennessee for about 12,000 years. Many places in the state, such as Chattanooga and Tullahoma, have names of Indigenous origin – even "Tennessee" itself derives from a Cherokee word for "where the river bends." Today, you can explore Native American heritage across the state.

Plan to begin your journey in the town of Vonore at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum. Located around 35 miles southwest of Knoxville, this museum is owned and operated by the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation and pays tribute to Sequoyah, who is best remembered for creating the Cherokee writing system. Also on-site is the Cherokee Memorial, where archaeological remains from former Cherokee towns of the 18th century are buried. Afterward, plan to visit The Tanasi Memorial, where Tennessee's namesake – a former Cherokee village – is commemorated 12 miles southeast of the museum.

Part of the more than 5,000-mile Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, which spans nine states, runs through Tennessee. In the 1830s, the U.S. government forced Native American tribes across the Southeast to relocate from their ancestral homelands to west of the Mississippi River; the ensuing journey became known as the Trail of Tears. Throughout Tennessee, you'll find more than a dozen places to visit to learn more about the horrific trek, including the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park in Birchwood. Visitors to this site, located in the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge, comment that it's a beautiful and much-needed memorial to Native Americans.

The Caverns

Katherine Brown | Courtesy of The Caverns

Home to the TV series "The Caverns Sessions" (formerly "Bluegrass Underground"), The Caverns is an otherworldly cave system that boasts more than 8,000 linear feet of passageways in Pelham, around 60 miles northwest of Chattanooga. During the day, take a guided tour of the caves for a behind-the-scenes look at the underground concert venue as well as one of the world's largest underground rooms. Adrenaline-seekers can book the Adventure Cave Tour, a true spelunking trip where few have gone before.

At night, listen to top music acts in Big Mouth Cave. The concert hall serves food and brews and is also accessible for music fans with mobility issues. Reviewers call the underground concert experience unique and fun. Extend your visit with the "Stay & Cave" package, which includes lodging, ground transportation and other amenities.

Address: 555 Charlie Roberts Road, Pelham, TN 37366

The eastern city of Knoxville is home to outdoor adventure, museums, history and a vibrant arts scene. Plan to stay a few days at The Tennessean , a hotel centrally located downtown. Then, walk over to Market Square, where you can explore the shopping, dining and entertainment options. Other highlights in the city include the Sunsphere tower's Observation Deck at World's Fair Park, the East Tennessee History Center and the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture.

For outdoor enthusiasts, visit what the city has dubbed its Urban Wilderness. The collection of open-air attractions features 50 miles of trails, lakes and parks as well as a 500-acre wildlife area; Ijams Nature Center is ideal for hiking, biking, fishing and rock climbing. Finally, Civil War and history buffs can chart out a visit to battlefields like Fort Sanders or plot a driving tour of the area's Civil War sites.

See more of Knoxville:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

Known as the "Secret City," Oak Ridge quickly developed on a tract of rural farmland purchased by the government during World War II. More than 100,000 people of various professions were brought to this city to work on the top-secret Manhattan Project, unaware the devastating atomic bomb they were producing would end WWII.

While in town, plan to explore this significant part of U.S. history at the Oak Ridge History Museum and the K-25 History Center, which travelers appreciate for being well done and informative. Other fun things to do in Oak Ridge include off-road adventures at Windrock Park and bike riding, jogging, fishing or swimming at Melton Lake Park.

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival

Courtesy of Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival

The first Bonnaroo festival took place in 2002, with its name inspired by a Dr. John album; the Creole slang word "bonnaroo" translates roughly to "best on the street." The annual music, arts and camping event convenes with as many as 80,000 festivalgoers on the 650-acre Bonnaroo Farm in Manchester, about 65 southeast of Nashville.

The four-day Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival typically occurs in mid-June: In 2023, it runs from June 14 to 18. This event features more than 150 musicians performing on 10 stages; four camping barns; and nonstop entertainment, food and parties. Expect to see and hear everything from rock to hip-hop to jazz. Past performers have included Bob Dylan, Jay-Z, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, Eminem, Radiohead and U2.

Address: 1560 New Bushy Branch Road, Manchester, TN 37355

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Located around 70 miles north of Chattanooga in Spencer, Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of the largest and most visited state parks in Tennessee, with nearly 30,000 acres spanning the top of the Cumberland Plateau. The park's rugged terrain boasts gorges, streams, lush hardwood forests and waterfalls such as the 256-foot-high Fall Creek Falls. There are more than 50 miles of hiking trails, including two overnight, long-distance routes.

The Nature Center at Fall Creek Falls hosts naturalist-led programs with activities like campfires, games, live music, movies and more. Visitors say the park is beautiful and the walk to see the falls from the overlook is short and pleasant, while the hike to the base of the waterfall can be challenging. Plan to stay a few days in one of the 30 cabins or camp outdoors under the stars at your choice of more than 200 campsites. For less rustic accommodations, reserve one of the guest rooms at the Lodge at Fall Creek Falls.

Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Courtesy of Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, situated about 40 miles northwest of Knoxville in Petros, was Tennessee's first maximum-security prison, known as the "End of the Line." The facility offers self-guided tours that cover 30 stations and stories throughout the prison. Guests can visit most parts of the prison, including the cell block, cafeteria, laundry room, exercise yard and the "HOLE," where inmates were sent for solitary confinement in complete darkness.

Former inmates and prison guards are stationed throughout the prison to share stories of life in Brushy and give guided tours, which you must book in advance. The more adventurous explorers may enjoy an overnight paranormal tour. Most travelers find the guide-led tours interesting and educational. Sample the End of the Line moonshine at the on-site distillery or dine at the Southern-inspired Warden's Table restaurant. Note that this site closes for the winter.

Address: 9182 state Route 116, Petros, TN 37845

Discovery Park of America

Courtesy of Discovery Park of America

Discovery Park of America will entertain family members of all ages. You'll want at least one full day to visit this 100,000-square-foot museum and the surrounding 50-acre heritage park in Union City, about 115 miles northwest of Memphis. Indoor exhibits include 10 galleries and interactive displays highlighting everything from technology and space to art and regional history. Discovery Park also offers a 20,000-gallon aquarium, a theater and the tallest observation tower in the area.

Go outside to visit a replica 19th-century frontier settlement or see a gristmill in action in a re-created early-1900s town. You can also wander through Japanese and European gardens and explore a train station. The park even has a river, waterfalls and a playground inspired by nature. Visitors say the museum is worth a visit and that it's both educational and great fun. If you have time, visit Union City's historic downtown area or check out nearby Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge and Reelfoot Lake State Park in Tiptonville. For an overnight stay, reserve accommodations at a hotel in Union City or set up camp near Reelfoot Lake.

Address: 830 Everett Blvd., Union City, TN 38261

See: Excellent Educational Vacations for Families

Museum of Appalachia

Courtesy of Museum of Appalachia

The 65-acre Museum of Appalachia in Clinton is a living history museum that makes for a perfect daytrip from Knoxville, since it's about 25 miles northwest. This authentic mountain farm and pioneer village, a Smithsonian Affiliate, features 35 log cabins, barns, churches and schools; its more than 250,000 artifacts compose collections of folk art, musical instruments and more. You can also stroll through several gardens and see free-range farm animals. Be sure to check out the indoor exhibits, including the Hall of Fame building, which honors interesting individuals with a connection to the Southern Appalachians.

Tourgoers are impressed with the informative exhibits and myriad artifacts, saying they come away with an appreciation for the history and lives of the Southern Appalachian people and their culture. Plan to spend a few hours at the museum. After your tour, take a walk by the Clinch River, visit Clinton's antiques district and then head over to Hoskins Drug Store, where you'll find an old-fashioned lunch counter and soda fountain.

Address: 2819 Andersonville Highway, Clinton, TN 37716

Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

Courtesy of Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

This historic Greek Revival mansion and surrounding 5,400 acres highlight Tennessee's history, architecture and equestrian heritage. A variety of tour options awaits you at Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery, about 10 miles southwest of Nashville. Guests say the entire estate is beautiful and the popular "Mansion Tour" provides a good historical overview – plus a complimentary wine tasting. "Journey to Jubilee" offers insight into the lives of the enslaved people who worked here for nearly a century, while the "Southern Food Traditions" walking tour takes you outside. There are even guided tours geared toward children.

Following whatever tour you choose, browse the specialty stores and wine shop. End your visit with a traditional Southern-style lunch at the on-site restaurant. For more of a taste of Belle Meade's wines or bourbon, reserve a spot for one of Belle Meade's culinary experiences.

Address: 110 Leake Ave., Nashville, TN 37205

Reelfoot Lake

Created in the early 1800s by a series of violent earthquakes, the 15,000-acre Reelfoot Lake sits in the northwest corner of the state in Tiptonville. This natural lake is unlike the state's many artificial reservoirs formed by damming. Reelfoot houses a unique ecosystem: a flooded forest whose cypress trees rise above the water's surface but are also submerged below as stumps.

Birders will enjoy touring with park naturalists to view the shore and wading birds. In winter thousands of American bald eagles converge on the lake – an occasion marked by the Reelfoot Lake Eagle Festival every February. Visitors enjoy the scenery, recreational activities, camping and peacefulness of the lake. For an extended getaway, bed down at Blue Bank Resort or set up camp in Reelfoot Lake State Park.

Read: The Top Lakes in Tennessee

Visit the Birthplace of Country Music

While Nashville may be known as the "Country Music Capital of the World," Bristol is actually considered the birthplace of the genre. This twin city is located directly on the Virginia and Tennessee state line at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Check out the Birthplace of Country Music Museum – a Smithsonian Affiliate – to learn about the genre's roots and the 1927 Bristol Sessions.

If you're visiting in September, consider attending the three-day Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion, or catch live music around town year-round. While in Bristol, you can take in a race at the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway, snap a selfie while standing in two different states, and take in the region's beautiful scenery at South Holston Lake and Dam. Consider spending the night at The Bristol Hotel for the rooftop bar, regional cuisine and boutique accommodations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She visited Nashville for the first time at the age of 6 and fell in love. She's been making regular visits to the state of Tennessee throughout her life, and has visited Memphis, Graceland (twice), Nashville more times than she can count, Chattanooga, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and more. Hood has attended multiple CMA Fests and is always looking for her next chance to head to Tennessee. She used her personal experience along with travel research expertise to update this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Tennessee
• The Top Things to Do in Kentucky
• The Top Things to Do in Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Arkansas
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South

The Best Attraction in Every U.S. State

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Tennessee Vacations , Southeast Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 17 best costa rica tours.

Lyn Mettler April 12, 2024

Hard vs. Soft Luggage

Rachael Hood April 12, 2024

The Best Kauai Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler April 11, 2024

The Top-Rated NYC Food Tours

Ann Henson April 11, 2024

The Best Things to Do in Maine

Mariya Greeley and Nicola Wood April 10, 2024

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

John Rodwan and Amanda Norcross April 9, 2024

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

Korrin Bishop April 9, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 8, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

• Stay Inspired

Get exclusive stories delivered right to your inbox.

Please use a valid email address.

Check your email — trip inspiration will be hitting your inbox soon.

Travel is good for the soul.

We'll email you inspiration.

• Chattanooga
• Pigeon Forge
• Sevierville
• Explore all cities & regions
• Eat & Drink
• Outdoor Adventure
• Scenic Trips
• Explore all Experiences
• Things to Do
• Places to Stay
• Event Calendar
• Trails & Byways
• Trip Inspiration
• Tennessee Music Pathways
• Kid Reviewed
• TN Playcation
• Explore all ways to plan

Transportation Map

Enjoy our attractions and great outdoors to the fullest with the most current transportation map.

Official Tennessee Transportation Map

To receive your  free  copy of the  Official Tennessee Transportation Map  please click the link below to order.

Sign up to receive trip ideas and inspiration from Tennessee Tourism.

No thanks, I’m not into adventure Read our Privacy Policy

The Inn at Apple Valley

Southern Charm in the Smokies, 1-800-233-3443

Whitewater Rafting on the Ocoee River

Offering three different trips down the Ocoee

Discovery Park of America

Visit Discovery Park of America this spring.

Elvis Presley’s Graceland

Where the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll Lives

Cookeville-Putnam County Visitors Bureau

Your Middle Tennessee Adventure Starts Here.

Get your free 2024 Tennessee vacation guide

Discover the best of Tennessee as told by the people who make it so special.

Get Tennessee Inspiration Sent Straight to your inbox

Build your family’s

RoadsideAmerica.com Your Online Guide to Offbeat Tourist Attractions

Attraction:

• Worth a Detour
• Worth a Stop
• Mildly Interesting

Filter by Rating

The editors at RoadsideAmerica.com assign a rating to each attraction. Users can filter places based on ratings. Ratings, categorized from "Mildly Interesting" to "The Best," were determined using a variety of factors and criteria. Ratings are subject to the mood swings of the editors and may change.

More about RoadsideAmerica.com's Ratings

Miscellaneous

• Submit a Tip
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

Trip Planning Caution : RoadsideAmerica.com offers maps, directions and attraction details as a convenience, providing all information as is. Attraction status, hours and prices change without notice; call ahead!

Credits, Media/Business Inquiries © Copyright 1996-2024 Doug Kirby, Ken Smith, Mike Wilkins. All rights reserved. No portion of this document may be reproduced, copied or revised without written permission of the authors.

Find all the exciting attractions, restaurants, music venues, and more located near your hotel and around town. Enjoy exploring Music City!

• Neighborhoods Map
• Downtown Map
• Downtown/Midtown Hotel Map (with proximities to Music City Center)
• Downtown Parking Map
• Music City Walk of Fame
• Opryland Music Valley Airport Lodging Convention Map

*Please check business websites before visiting to ensure current operational hours.

Via Interstate 65 North: Follow I-65 North to Exit 209A Broadway. Turn right onto Broadway. Follow Broadway into downtown Music City. Go approx. 8 blocks to the Visitor Information Center on the right side of Broadway in the Bridgestone Arena.

Via Interstate 65 South: Follow I-65 South to Exit 209B Broadway. Turn left onto Broadway. Follow Broadway into downtown Music City. Go approx. 8 blocks to the Visitor Information Center on the right side of Broadway in the Bridgestone Arena.

Via Interstate 40 West: Follow I-40 West to Exit 209A Broadway. Turn right onto Broadway. Follow Broadway into downtown Music City. Go approx. 8 blocks to the Visitor Information Center on the right side of Broadway in the Bridgestone Arena.

Via Interstate 40 East: Merge with I-65 South and take Exit 209B Broadway. Turn left onto Broadway. Follow Broadway into downtown Music City. Go approx. 8 blocks to the Visitor Information Center on the right side of Broadway in the Bridgestone Arena.

Via Interstate 24 West: Follow I-24 West to Exit 48 James Robertson Parkway. Follow James Robertson Parkway over river into downtown Music City. Turn left on 3rd Avenue North. Turn right onto Broadway. Visitor Information Center is 2 blocks on left in the Bridgestone Arena.

Via Interstate 24 East: Follow I-24 East to Exit 48 James Robertson Parkway. Turn right onto James Robertson Parkway and follow over river into downtown Music City. Turn left on 3rd Avenue North. Turn right onto Broadway. Visitor Information Center is 2 blocks on left in the Bridgestone Arena.

More than 28,000 parking spaces make it easy to bring a car downtown. Broadway, downtown's main thoroughfare, bisects numbered avenues into north and south. Most corporate offices and government agencies are north of Broadway. For more downtown parking information, please visit parkitdowntown.com .

Tourists, residents and business travelers now have a convenient and inexpensive way to travel to and from the Nashville International Airport and downtown Music City. For just $2, you can ride the Nashville WeGo's route 18 Airport/Elm Hill Pike bus between the Nashville International Airport and Downtown Music City. Visit nashvillemta.org or call 615-862-5950 for more information on schedules and pickup locations.

• Save BIG on Nashville attractions and tours with the Music City Total Access Pass.
• Do more for less with these special offers, discount tickets, package deals, and giveaways.

Get weekly news and exclusive discounts right in your inbox.

Map of Gatlinburg — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Gatlinburg, Tennessee for travelers! Check out Gatlinburg’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Gatlinburg? See our Gatlinburg Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Gatlinburg. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Gatlinburg map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Gatlinburg by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 18 attractions in Gatlinburg

Ripley's aquarium of the smokies, gatlinburg space needle.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Days inn & suites by wyndham downtown gatlinburg parkway, the village shoppes.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Sugarlands Distilling Company

Ole smoky distillery "the holler", tennessee shine co, ole smoky distillery "the barrelhouse", fowler's clay works, ripley's mountain coaster, sugarland cellars, gatlinburg scenic overlook, hollywood star cars museum, moonshine mountain coaster.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Gatlinburg SkyPark

Ober mountain, tennessee cider company, top 10 restaurants in gatlinburg, the peddler steakhouse.

Wild Plum Tea Room

Smoky mountain brewery in gatlinburg, pancake pantry, no way jose’s mexican cantina, cherokee grill and steakhouse, the park grill, crockett's breakfast camp, crystelle creek restaurant, transportation in gatlinburg, nearby airports, mcghee tyson airport, highways and major roads.

• US Route 441
• Parkway (US 441/321/73)
• Great Smoky Mountains Expressway (TN 66)
• Newfound Gap Road (US 441)
• Little River Road (TN 73)
• Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (TN 73)
• Ski Mountain Road
• Cherokee Orchard Road
• Historic Nature Trail
• Upper Middle Creek Road

Top searches in Gatlinburg

Popular road trips from gatlinburg, what's the weather like in gatlinburg.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Gatlinburg for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Gatlinburg in January
• Weather in Gatlinburg in February
• Weather in Gatlinburg in March
• Weather in Gatlinburg in April
• Weather in Gatlinburg in May
• Weather in Gatlinburg in June
• Weather in Gatlinburg in July
• Weather in Gatlinburg in August
• Weather in Gatlinburg in September
• Weather in Gatlinburg in October
• Weather in Gatlinburg in November
• Weather in Gatlinburg in December

All road trips from Gatlinburg

• Gatlinburg to New York City drive
• Gatlinburg to Orlando drive
• Gatlinburg to Washington DC drive
• Gatlinburg to Nashville drive
• Gatlinburg to Chicago drive
• Gatlinburg to Atlanta drive
• Gatlinburg to New Orleans drive
• Gatlinburg to Chattanooga drive
• Gatlinburg to Toronto drive
• Gatlinburg to Savannah drive
• Gatlinburg to Asheville drive
• Gatlinburg to Charleston drive
• Gatlinburg to Boston drive
• Gatlinburg to Memphis drive
• Gatlinburg to Louisville drive
• Gatlinburg to Philadelphia drive
• Gatlinburg to St. Augustine drive
• Gatlinburg to Niagara Falls drive
• Gatlinburg to Myrtle Beach drive
• Gatlinburg to Baltimore drive
• Gatlinburg to Saint Louis drive
• Gatlinburg to Branson drive
• Gatlinburg to Charlotte drive
• Gatlinburg to Montreal drive
• Gatlinburg to Cincinnati drive
• Gatlinburg to Miami Beach drive
• Gatlinburg to Williamsburg drive
• Gatlinburg to Pittsburgh drive
• Gatlinburg to Cleveland drive
• Gatlinburg to Greenville drive

Explore nearby places

• Pigeon Forge
• the Wears Valley
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Sevierville
• Chestnut Hill
• Bryson City
• Fontana Dam
• Strawberry Plains
• Nantahala Township
• the Maggie Valley

All related maps of Gatlinburg

• Map of Pigeon Forge
• Map of the Wears Valley
• Map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Map of Tremont
• Map of Sevierville
• Map of Townsend
• Map of Cosby
• Map of Walland
• Map of Chestnut Hill
• Map of Kodak
• Map of Seymour
• Map of Cherokee
• Map of Bryson City
• Map of Whittier
• Map of Dandridge
• Map of Hartford
• Map of Almond
• Map of Fontana Dam
• Map of Rockford
• Map of Newport
• Map of Maryville
• Map of Strawberry Plains
• Map of Alcoa
• Map of Baneberry
• Map of Nantahala Township
• Map of the Maggie Valley
• Map of New Market
• Map of Dillsboro
• Map of Knoxville

Gatlinburg throughout the year

• Gatlinburg in January
• Gatlinburg in February
• Gatlinburg in March
• Gatlinburg in April
• Gatlinburg in May
• Gatlinburg in June
• Gatlinburg in July
• Gatlinburg in August
• Gatlinburg in September
• Gatlinburg in October
• Gatlinburg in November
• Gatlinburg in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Gatlinburg?

Get inspired for your trip to Gatlinburg with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary
• 2-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary
• 3-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary
• 4-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary
• 5-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Explore the Official

Vacation guide, subscribe to win a, dream vacation, download the, gatlinburg app, gatlinburg maps.

Getting here is easy. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is only a day’s drive from two-thirds of the U.S. population. Once you're here, you can hop aboard the Free Gatlinburg Trolley all day long. Gatlinburg also has more than 17 parking lots conveniently located throughout the downtown area for easy access. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a town that’s easier to get around in, since most of the  attractions ,  restaurants , and  shopping  is located within walking distance of each other so you’ll be able to explore at your own pace.

Trolley Map

Parking information, alternate routes map, transportation, google driving directions, discover more, restaurants, attractions, great smoky mountains.

Nashville Printable Tourist Map

Nashville Map: The Attractions

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Printers Alley

Johnny Cash Museum

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The State Capitol

Ryman Auditorium

George jones museum.

Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

Centennial Park

Belmont Mansion

Sygic travel - a travel guide in your pocket.

More Tourist Maps

• Privacy Policy
• STOCK 360° TRAVEL VIDEOS

2024 solar eclipse map: Where to see the eclipse on April 8

These 2024 solar eclipse maps will help you make the best decision about where and how to watch the total solar eclipse on Monday (April 8).

It's finally here: Today, (April 8) a total solar eclipse will pass across the skies North America, giving more than 33 million people living in 15 U.S. states a rare view of the totally-obstructed sun, and — weather permitting — a taste of some seriously strange eclipse phenomena .

If you’re wondering where the total and partial phases of the eclipse will be visible, the good news is that almost everyone in the contiguous U.S. will be able to see the celestial spectacle to some extent. But for a more detailed view of the eclipse’s path, take a look at these handy eclipse maps, courtesy of GreatAmericanEclipse.com. 

Solar eclipse 2024 path of totality map

Totality is the moment that every eclipse-chaser lives for: The moment when the moon completely covers the sun’s face, resulting in a brief but eerie darkness in the daytime. The path of totality , shown in the map above, is the path of the moon’s shadow across Earth’s surface. 

On Monday (April 8), totality will begin in Sinaloa, Mexico, then move northeast up to Texas, ultimately crossing 15 states before moving on to Canada. The states where totality will be visible are: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine — although Tennessee and Michigan will only be glanced by the moon's shadow.

Related: April 8 solar eclipse: What time does totality start in every state?

Viewers MUST be within the path of totality to witness the total phase of the eclipse; if you are off the path by even a mile, you will only see a partial eclipse, and miss out on the spooky daytime darkness. Furthermore, the closer you are to the center of the path of totality, the longer totality will last for you — up to a maximum duration of 4 minutes, 27 seconds in Torreón, Mexico.

Note: Totality is the ONLY TIME when it is safe to view the sun without protective eyewear like certified solar eclipse glasses . You must protect your eyes during the entire partial phase of the eclipse, no matter where you are.

Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now

Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.

Solar eclipse 2024 partial eclipse map

If you live in the U.S. and can’t make it to the path of totality, a partial eclipse still awaits you on April 8. The entire contiguous U.S. will have some view of the partial eclipse, ranging from 99% coverage of the sun just off the path of totality to about 15% coverage far to the northwest of the path.

The map above shows how much of the sun’s disk will be blocked from your location. Watching the partial phases of the eclipse — which last about an hour and 20 minutes before and after totality — means wearing protective eyewear at all times. Failure to do so could result in permanent eye damage, according to NASA .

If you want to experience the celestial spectacle but don’t have a pair of eclipse glasses handy, there are many other ways to safely enjoy the partial eclipse . These include making a homemade pinhole projector , using a pasta strainer to project the shadow of the moon onto the ground or watching one of the various eclipse live streams available.

2024 eclipse travel maps

If you want to see totality but don’t live within the path, driving or taking public transit to a city within the path may be possible. The map above shows how far the drive is to the path of totality, based on where you’re coming from. Meanwhile, the map below shows the most populated cities within the path of totality — many of which are expected to be flooded with millions of eclipse tourists on April 8.

The biggest cities within the path of totality include: San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth in Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana; Hamilton and Montreal in Canada; and Torreón and Mazatlan in Mexico.

Wherever you are on April 8, we wish you clear skies and protected eyes during this rare, wondrous eclipse over North America.

Brandon is the space/physics editor at Live Science. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, CBS.com, the Richard Dawkins Foundation website and other outlets. He holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Arizona, with minors in journalism and media arts. He enjoys writing most about space, geoscience and the mysteries of the universe.

Annular solar eclipse 2024: Everything you need to know about the next solar eclipse

Why I watched the solar eclipse with my kids, a goose and 2,000 trees

There's 5 times as many bull sharks off Alabama now — but don't worry about shark bites

Most Popular

• 2 Total solar eclipse reveals tiny new comet moments before it was destroyed by the sun
• 3 Largest 3D map of our universe could 'turn cosmology upside down'
• 4 Mass die-off half a billion years ago caused by shifting tectonic plates, ancient rocks reveal
• 5 China develops new light-based chiplet that could power artificial general intelligence — where AI is smarter than humans
• 2 Largest 3D map of our universe could 'turn cosmology upside down'
• 3 James Webb telescope finds origins of the biggest explosion since the Big Bang — revealing a new cosmological mystery
• 4 Ancient Indigenous lineage of Blackfoot Confederacy goes back 18,000 years to last ice age, DNA reveals
• 5 Eclipse from space: See the moon's shadow race across North America at 1,500 mph in epic satellite footage

When will solar eclipse reach your town? These maps show path's timing, how long it lasts.

Hundreds of cities in 13 u.s. states fall directly on the april 8 eclipse's path of totality as the moon blocks the sun's disc and ushers in darkness. these interactive maps offer a closer look..

Come Monday, millions of Americans from Texas to Maine will stop what they're doing to step outside and spend a few minutes gazing skyward .

Few celestial events have the power to capture our collective attention the way this upcoming total solar eclipse has managed to do. And for those making time to witness it, two questions are bound to be on their mind : Will totality reach my area and if so, how long will the resulting darkness last?

Most people across the country are bound to experience the eclipse in some form, but only 13 states fall directly on the path of totality, where the moon will appear large enough to shield all but the sun's outermost layer, the corona.

As you make your eclipse-viewing plans, these interactive maps should help you chart the time and duration for when totality will occur in cities along the path.

Solar eclipse experiment: Here's why NASA is launching 3 sounding rockets into space during the total solar eclipse

Total solar eclipse path of totality map

The 115-mile-wide path of totality will pass from southwest to northeast over portions of Mexico the United States and Canada.

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which will occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow travels northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin at 1:27 p.m. CDT in Eagle Pass, Texas. From there, the path will cut diagonally across the country before ending around 3:35 p.m. EDT in Lee, Maine.

Remember: If you plan to witness the eclipse, proper eyewear is a must until the eclipse reaches totality, then it can be viewed with the naked eye.

Here's a map of some of the larger cities in each of the 13 states on the path to show how the duration of totality will vary:

Cities, states on the path of totality

All told, nearly 500 cities in 13 U.S. states are located on the eclipse's path of totality. Here are some of the major cities in each of the 13 states:

• Dallas and San Antonio, Texas
• Idabel, Oklahoma
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Paducah, Kentucky
• Indianapolis and Evansville, Indiana
• Carbondale, Illinois
• Cleveland and Toledo, Ohio
• Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont
• Lancaster, New Hampshire
• Caribou, Maine
• Erie, Pennsylvania

This interactive map provides a closer look at cities along the path, when totality will arrive there and how long totality will last:

Eclipse watch parties, festivals

Such a rare event is sure to attract skygazing tourists unlucky enough to live outside the path of totality. Fortunately, many cities that will experience the total eclipse are planning plenty of festivities for tourists and locals alike.

This map , courtesy of Kristian Campana at festivalguidesandreviews.com , includes locations of watch parties, music festivals and more all tied to the eclipse's arrival:

2024 total solar eclipse interactive map with zip code search

Perhaps the easiest way to see how the eclipse will impact your city or town, is to put your zip code into USA TODAY's interactive eclipse map .

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

• Solar Eclipse 2024

See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse is expected to pass through the United States on April 8, 2024, giving stargazers across the country the opportunity to view the celestial phenomenon in which the sun is completely covered by the moon.

The eclipse will enter the U.S. in Texas and exit in Maine. It is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here's what to know about the path of the eclipse and where you can see it.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

Where can you see the total solar eclipse?

The eclipse will cross through North America, passing over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. 

The eclipse will enter the United States in Texas, and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Much of the eclipse's visibility depends on the weather. A cloudy day could prevent visitors from seeing the spectacle altogether.

When does the solar eclipse start and end?

The solar eclipse will begin in Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. It will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The longest duration of totality—which is when the moon completely covers the sun — will be 4 minutes, 28 seconds, near Torreón, Mexico. Most places along the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

Read More : The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

Where’s the best place to see the total solar eclipse?

The best place to witness the event is along the path of totality. Thirteen states will be along the path of totality, and many towns across the country are preparing for the deluge of visitors— planning eclipse watch parties and events in the days leading up to totality.

In Rochester, NY, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is hosting a multi-day festival that includes a range of events and activities. Russellville, Arkansas will host an event with activities including live music, science presentations, tethered hot-air balloon rides, and telescope viewings.

More Must-Reads From TIME

• Exclusive: Google Workers Revolt Over $1.2 Billion Contract With Israel
• Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
• Stop Looking for Your Forever Home
• The Sympathizer Counters 50 Years of Hollywood Vietnam War Narratives
• The Bliss of Seeing the Eclipse From Cleveland
• Hormonal Birth Control Doesn’t Deserve Its Bad Reputation
• The Best TV Shows to Watch on Peacock
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Write to Simmone Shah at [email protected]

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Credit card rates
• Balance transfer credit cards
• Business credit cards
• Cash back credit cards
• Rewards credit cards
• Travel credit cards
• Checking accounts
• Online checking accounts
• High-yield savings accounts
• Money market accounts
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Car insurance
• Home buying
• Options pit
• Investment ideas
• Research reports
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times across the U.S.

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

Texas OklahomaArkansasMissouri Illinois KentuckyIndianaOhio Pennsylvania New York Vermont New Hampshire Maine

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)Austin, TexasWaco, TexasDallas, TexasLittle Rock, ArkansasIndianapolis, IndianaDayton, OhioCleveland, OhioBuffalo, New YorkRochester, New YorkSyracuse, New YorkBurlington, VermontMap of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r

NASA to launch rockets into total solar eclipse path

Thief says he tried on, then melted down Yogi Berra World Series rings | 60 Minutes

Total solar eclipse cuts path across U.S.

Recommended Stories

Total solar eclipse guide 2024: what time it is, where the path of totality is, how to watch it safely and more.

Everything you need to know about the April 8 celestial event.

Total solar eclipse 2024: Before-and-after photos

Before-and-after photographs taken along the path of the total solar eclipse in North America reveal the stunning, awe-inducing nature of the celestial phenomenon.

Do your eyes hurt after the eclipse? Here's why they may be irritated and what to do.

Searches for 'eyes hurting' are spiking after Monday's solar eclipse, but experts say the pain will subside in most cases.

Total solar eclipse: Watch the moment of totality across ​t​he U.S.

Watch livestream video of the solar eclipse.

Solar eclipse triggers onslaught of conspiracy theories across social media

Let’s break down some of the common conspiracy theories around the April 8 solar eclipse.

A guide to watching today's total solar eclipse safely — from why glasses are essential to making sure you've got the proper pair

Grab a pair of (authorized) eclipse glasses and watch safely with these expert tips.

Yankees push back start time for game vs. Marlins due to solar eclipse

The Guardians also moved back the start time for their home opener on Monday.

Solar Eclipse 2024: How to watch and record today's total eclipse

To find out all the details of watching and recording the total solar eclipse on April 8, read on.

Your April guide to a happier, healthier you: spring COVID boosters, total solar eclipse and the benefits of a rainy walk (really!)

A look ahead at living your best life this April, from the total solar eclipse to the rainy day activity you should try.

Dodgers place RHP Bobby Miller on IL with shoulder inflammation

The Dodgers already had a full rotation on their injured list.

Tigers' Zach McKinstry has inning to forget at third base and on the mound vs. Twins

McKinstry made a three-run error in the field and allowed a three-run home run on the mound.

Wind, hail and tornadoes: What to know about the severe weather coming to the central U.S.

Which areas of the United States should be on the lookout for severe weather warnings? Here's what to know.

Masters: Tiger Woods cards his worst-ever round at Augusta National

Woods has scored in the 80s just five times in his entire career.

Masters: Viktor Hovland withdraws from next week’s RBC Heritage after missing cut at Augusta National

Viktor Hovland had two doubles and a triple on Friday, and he missed the cut at the Masters for the first time in his career

Naval Ravikant's Airchat is a social app built around talk, not text

Airchat is a new social media app that encourages users to “just talk.” A previous version of Airchat was released last year, but the team — led by AngelList founder Naval Ravikant and former Tinder product exec Brian Norgard — rebuilt the app and relaunched it on iOS and Android yesterday. Currently invite-only, Airchat is already ranked #27 in social networking on Apple’s App Store.

New Masters Apple Vision Pro app gives golf fans whole new way to experience the tournament

For the 2024 Masters Tournament, IBM and Masters introduced an app for the Apple Vision Pro for fans of the sport who can’t make the trip to Augusta National Golf Course in Georgia.

NBA Playoff Picture: Key games, tiebreakers and everything at stake on the season's final day

Welcome to the regular-season finale, where 13 playoff seeds are still in the air. We break down what's at stake for Sunday's slate of games.

Vana plans to let users rent out their Reddit data to train AI

In the generative AI boom, data is the new oil. From big tech firms to startups, AI makers are licensing e-books, images, videos, audio and more from data brokers, all in the pursuit of training up more capable (and more legally defensible) AI-powered products. Shutterstock has deals with Meta, Google, Amazon and Apple to supply millions of images for model training, while OpenAI has signed agreements with several news organizations to train its models on news archives.

Shoppers call this lazy susan for your fridge a 'mini revolution,' and it's down to just $20

Unlike round models, this No. 1 bestselling rectangular version maximizes space to cut down on condiment clutter.

Deal Dive: Not all climate startups are focused on carbon

When Josh Silverman started shopping around the idea for his methane-eating microbe startup, Windfall Bio, eight years ago, the market just wasn't ready. Companies were instead focused on lowering their carbon emissions. The round was led by Prelude Ventures with participation from Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund, Incite Ventures and Positive Ventures, among others, as well as existing investors, including Mayfield.

Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

More from CBS News

Inflation's rising. Here's how debt relief can help.

How big is the Masters purse, and how much of it does the winner get?

TSA found more than 1,500 guns at airport checkpoints in 1st quarter of 2024

Rupert Murdoch is selling his triplex penthouse. See what it looks like.

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.