Plainview TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Plainview, Tennessee.
1. Plainview Cemetery
HISTORIC LOCAL LANDMARK
Plainview Cemetery is a public attraction and landmark building located at Slayden-Marion Road in Slayden, Tennessee. The cemetery serves as an important historical site for the local community, preserving the area's heritage and family histories. Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds while reflecting on the region's past.
2. Sun Studio
BIRTHPLACE OF ROCK
Sun Studio is a legendary recording facility known as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll, where musical pioneers like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded their early hits. The studio offers fantastic tours showcasing an impressive collection of memorabilia, including Isaac Hayes' Oscar. Visitors consistently rate this as one of Tennessee's most significant musical landmarks.
3. Downtown Nashville
MUSIC CITY CENTRAL
Downtown Nashville serves as the vibrant heart of Tennessee's music scene with numerous honky-tonks, performance venues, and cultural attractions. The area features walkable streets lined with restaurants, bars, and shops that showcase the city's unique character and heritage. Visitors can experience live music at almost any hour while exploring this iconic urban district.
4. Lookout Mountain
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER
Lookout Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views spanning multiple states from its elevated vantage point near Chattanooga. The mountain features several attractions including Ruby Falls, Rock City Gardens, and the Incline Railway. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking trails while taking in the spectacular natural scenery.
5. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
MOUNTAINTOP ADVENTURE EXPERIENCE
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park provides visitors with spectacular views of the Smoky Mountains via its iconic chairlift and famous SkyBridge. Guests can visit during both day and night to experience different perspectives of the mountain scenery and illuminated attractions. The park includes amenities such as the SkyTrail and Tulip Tower that enhance the mountaintop experience.
6. Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery
SOUTHERN PLANTATION EXPERIENCE
Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery preserves an impressive antebellum plantation that once served as a premier thoroughbred horse farm. The property includes the original mansion, outbuildings, and a modern winery where visitors can enjoy tastings of local wines. Tours provide insights into Southern history, architecture, and the property's significance to American horse racing.
7. Alum Cave Trail
DRAMATIC MOUNTAIN HIKE
Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a 10.7-mile out-and-back journey to dramatic cliff formations. The trail features unique geological formations, including the namesake Alum Cave Bluffs that form a massive concave overhang. Hikers can continue beyond the bluffs to reach the summit of Mount LeConte for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
8. Ryman Auditorium
MOTHER CHURCH OF COUNTRY
Ryman Auditorium stands as a revered historic venue in downtown Nashville, originally built as a church and later becoming the home of the Grand Ole Opry. The auditorium's exceptional acoustics have made it a favorite performance space for musicians across many genres, from country legends to contemporary artists. Visitors can tour the venue, learn about its rich musical history, and even stand on its legendary stage.
9. Beale Street
BLUES MUSIC MECCA
Beale Street serves as Memphis' most famous entertainment district, renowned for its deep connections to blues music history and vibrant nightlife. The street features numerous clubs, restaurants, and shops housed in colorful historic buildings dating back to the early 20th century. Visitors can enjoy live music performances every night while experiencing the cultural heritage that influenced American music.
10. Chimney Tops Trail
ICONIC SMOKY MOUNTAIN PEAK
Chimney Tops Trail provides a challenging 4.2-mile hiking experience to one of the most recognizable peaks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail features steep climbs and rocky terrain that lead to spectacular views of the surrounding mountain landscape. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas that showcase the beauty of the Smokies throughout all seasons.
11. Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
NASHVILLE'S MUSICAL TREASURE
The Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum houses an unparalleled collection of artifacts, recordings, and memorabilia documenting the history of country music. The museum's exhibits trace the evolution of the genre from its roots to contemporary artists through interactive displays and fascinating historical items. Visitors can explore multiple floors of exhibits while learning about the artists and songs that shaped American musical culture.
12. Belmont Mansion
OPULENT ANTEBELLUM ESTATE
Belmont Mansion stands as one of Tennessee's largest antebellum houses, showcasing Italian Villa architecture and period furnishings in the heart of Nashville. The mansion offers guided tours that provide insights into Nashville history, the Civil War era, and the decorative arts of the 19th century. Visitors can explore the impressive estate at their own pace after an introduction from knowledgeable interpreters stationed throughout the property.
13. Rocky Top Mountain Coaster
THRILLING MOUNTAIN RIDE
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster offers a unique alpine coaster experience featuring four uplifts and four exhilarating downhill runs through the scenic landscape. The attraction provides both daytime and nighttime rides, with the evening experience enhanced by spectacular lighting effects. Visitors consistently rate this as a must-do activity when visiting the Pigeon Forge area.
14. Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum
CELEBRATING MUSIC MAKERS
The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum honors the accomplished session musicians who played on countless hit recordings for legendary artists including Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Bob Dylan. The museum displays authentic instruments used to record famous songs, including the original stage where a young Jimi Hendrix performed. Admission includes access to the interactive GRAMMY Museum Gallery where visitors can explore every aspect of the recording process.
15. Newfound Gap
SMOKY MOUNTAINS SCENIC OVERLOOK
Newfound Gap marks the stunning mountain pass along the Tennessee-North Carolina border offering spectacular panoramic views of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area serves as a popular stopping point along the scenic drive through the park, featuring interpretive displays and access to hiking trails including the Appalachian Trail. Visitors can experience dramatic changes in vegetation and climate as they ascend to this elevation, making it a perfect representation of the park's diverse ecosystems.