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Take
a Look at Tennessee
Where can you find world-class ballet, rock æn roll and a theme park? Where can you find rolling hills, lush farmlands and metropolitan cities? Where can you find tranquil fishing streams, an underwater world and white water rafting? Tennessee, of course! The Volunteer State, so nicknamed because it was the first to fill its quota of soldier volunteers during the War of 1812, is filled with these and many more wonders. Whether you want to immerse yourself in culture, scenic beauty or white water rivers, Tennessee is a vacation destination that will please everyone in your family. We all know Memphis' best-known resident, and hundreds of thousands of devoted fans gravitate to this lively city each year. Elvis' Graceland Mansion is a must-see on any visitor's stop. While Elvis is definitely King in Memphis, be sure to stop by a local club to hear what today's musicians are playing, whether it be funk, rock, soul or the blues. As the King himself once said, ôSomebody asked me what I missed about Memphis, and I said, æEverything.'ö After a visit to this jewel of a city, you'll understand just what he meant. On the opposite side of the state, to the east, and at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you'll find Pigeon Forge. More than 11 million travelers visit Pigeon Forge annually to enjoy the inspiring beauty that surrounds this small town. More than 800 miles of hiking trails, 10 developed campgrounds and countless fishing streams are popular outdoor destinations. The most well-known attraction is, of course, Dollywood. Dolly Parton opened Tennessee's only theme park in 1986, and it's been a success ever since! Themed around Dolly's upbringing in the Appalachian mountains, guests enjoy America's largest treehouse, thrilling rides, stage productions, crafts and special events. Whatever age and interest, everyone enjoys Pigeon Forge! Also located in Eastern Tennessee and just west of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville is a small town with big time culture. The scenic city, on the edge of the Tennessee River, is surrounded by three national parks with white water rivers, numerous lakes and 25 golf courses. While the natural beauty is awe inspiring, so is all of the beauty that Knoxville has to offer. With more than 20 art and cultural museums, historical sites, shopping, year-round festivals, East Tennessee's only fully professional ballet, and a world-renowned zoo, the city is a natural draw for tourists. Follow the Tennessee River south and you'll happen upon unassuming Chattanooga. Known as the ôGateway to the Deep Southö more than a century ago and more recently as America's dirtiest city, Chattanooga has remade itself in the past decade to become the belle of the ball. The apple of this revitalized city's eye is the expansive Tennessee Aquarium, scheduled to become even grander, thanks to the 21st Century Waterfront Plan. The project will take the city even closer to its goal of reconnecting Chattanooga with the Tennessee River by redeveloping the north and south shores of the river, creating more inviting landscapes for residents and visitors to enjoy. With
so much happening in Tennessee, there's every reason to
visit this diverse state
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