Start your trip to Tennessee with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Take a self-guided tour through the history of country music and see memorabilia from some of the biggest names in the industry. Next, head over to The Parthenon, a stunning replica of the Greek landmark that houses an art museum. For lunch, check out Monell's for family-style Southern cooking. Afterward, hit up the Johnny Cash Museum to celebrate the life and work of the "Man in Black". End the day with a show at the historic Ryman Auditorium.
Take a scenic drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can hike, fish, or just enjoy the stunning views. The park is home to over 1,500 black bears, as well as countless other species of wildlife. If you want to get up close and personal, check out Smoky Mountain Bear Country for a guided tour. For lunch, stop at Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant and Grill for Southern comfort food. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town of Gatlinburg, where you can find everything from moonshine and fudge to handmade pottery and jewelry.
If you have more time, consider taking a tour of the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg or visiting the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum. For a shorter trip, cut out one of the Nashville museums and spend more time in Gatlinburg.