3 day itinerary for Tennessee

Itinerary

Tennessee is a fantastic state with a rich blend of music, history, and stunning landscapes. Since you travel at a fast pace, I’ll pack your itinerary with exciting activities and sights. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Nashville - The Heart of Country Music

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pancake Pantry: Start your day with some delicious pancakes at this iconic spot in Hillsboro Village. The line can be long, but it’s worth the wait!
• Country Music Hall of Fame: After breakfast, head over to this must-visit museum. You’ll get to see exhibits on legendary artists and the history of country music. Don’t miss the Taylor Swift Education Center!

Midday:

• Lunch at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken: You can’t visit Nashville without trying its famous hot chicken! Grab a spicy sandwich and some sides to fuel up for the afternoon.
• Ryman Auditorium: Take a guided tour of this historic venue. It’s known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," and you’ll get to learn about its rich history and maybe even catch a glimpse of a live performance.

Afternoon:

• Explore Broadway: Stroll down the honky-tonk strip, where you can pop into various bars and listen to live music. Don’t forget to check out the iconic Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge!
• Visit the Johnny Cash Museum: Just a short walk away, this museum is dedicated to the life and career of the Man in Black. It’s a must-see for any music lover.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden: Enjoy a delicious burger and some local brews in a laid-back atmosphere.
• Live Music at The Bluebird Cafe: End your day with an intimate live music experience. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as this place fills up quickly!

## Day 2: Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Nature and Adventure

Morning:

• Early Breakfast at your hotel or a local café: Fuel up for a day of adventure!
• Drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park: It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from Nashville, so leave early to maximize your time in the park.

Midday:

• Hiking at Clingmans Dome: Once you arrive, head to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park. The hike to the observation tower is steep but offers breathtaking views!
• Picnic Lunch: Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic picnic areas in the park. There are plenty of spots with stunning views.

Afternoon:

• Cades Cove Loop Road: Drive this 11-mile scenic loop to see wildlife, historic buildings, and beautiful landscapes. You can stop for short hikes along the way if you see something interesting!
• Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center: Stop by to learn more about the park’s history and grab some souvenirs.

Evening:

• Dinner in Gatlinburg: Head to Gatlinburg for dinner. Try the Smoky Mountain Brewery for some local brews and hearty food.
• Explore Gatlinburg: After dinner, take a stroll through the town. You can check out the shops or even ride the SkyLift for stunning views of the Smokies at night!

## Day 3: Memphis - The Birthplace of Blues

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Arcade Restaurant: Start your day at Memphis’s oldest café, known for its classic diner vibe and delicious breakfast options.
• National Civil Rights Museum: Spend your morning at this powerful museum located at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. It’s a moving experience that’s essential to understanding American history.

Midday:

• Lunch at Central BBQ: You can’t leave Memphis without trying its famous barbecue! Central BBQ is a local favorite, so dig into some ribs or pulled pork.
• Beale Street: After lunch, take a stroll down Beale Street, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and maybe catch some live music.

Afternoon:

• Graceland: No trip to Memphis is complete without a visit to Elvis Presley’s home. Take the audio tour and explore the mansion, Elvis’s car collection, and the Meditation Garden.
• Sun Studio: If time allows, take a tour of the legendary recording studio where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and many others recorded their hits.

Evening:

• Dinner at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken: End your trip with some mouthwatering fried chicken at this iconic spot.
• Live Music at a Local Venue: Check out a local venue for some live blues or rock music to wrap up your Tennessee adventure!

And there you have it! A whirlwind 3-day itinerary that captures the essence of Tennessee. You’ll be moving fast, but you’ll get to experience the best of music, nature, and culture. Enjoy your trip! 🎶🌄🍗