5 Reasons Why a Trip to Tennessee "Sounds Perfect"

Photos for media-use only courtesy Tennessee Tourism. Discover what’s new at press.tnvacation.com.

Tennessee – New in May 2024 – Statewide

New statewide program, Bike Tennessee, launches May 23 with 52 road cycling routes across the state to showcase our diverse landscapes including farmland, mountains, waterfalls and historic battlegrounds. Tennessee aims to help the growing community of cyclists explore the backroads, byways, big cities and charming communities that make Tennessee unique.

Grand Ole Opry Turns 100 in 2025 – Nashville

The Grand Ole Opry is the world’s longest-running live radio show and the show that made country music famous. 2025 marks the Opry’s 100th birthday with a year-long celebration of the artists, fans and music that made the Opry a global phenomenon with one-of-a-kind experiences and performances.

Elvis’ 90th Birthday, B.B. King’s 100th Birthday and Riverfront Reimagined – Memphis

Celebrate Elvis Presley’s 90th birthday at Graceland in Memphis in January 2025 with live music, special tours, conversations and more for a celebration fit for a king. On the world-famous Beale Street, experience B.B. King’s Blues Club, the iconic destination that pays tribute to the King of the Blues and his global influence on music during his century birthday celebration. Memphis’ historic riverfront is reimagined, as the new 30-acre Tom Lee Park sets the standard for a waterfront natural wonder. The $61M makeover connects the city’s residents and visitors to the outdoors, with events and festivals, embracing the lure of the Mighty Mississippi.

New Experiences in The Great Smoky Mountains

Dollywood – The all-new Dolly Parton Experience opens in May 2024 with an in-depth look at her iconic career through multiple immersive, high-tech attractions and exhibits. Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort and Big Bear Mountain roller coaster are also new and exciting experiences for guests.
Anakeesta WildSide – The award-winning mountaintop adventure park overlooking downtown Gatlinburg debuts a new adventure park in late 2024 with 900 acres for guided UTV tours, mountain biking and e-bike rentals.
New Family-Friendly Experiences in the Smokies – Visitors to Dig n Zone in Sevierville can take control of actual construction equipment. North America’s largest construction-based equipment is fun for all ages. In late fall of 2024, Pigeon Forge will welcome the Crayola Experience and Nerf Action Xperience.

Adventures Run on Tennessee Whiskey – Statewide

Explore the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, tour, taste or attend a special event at nearly 30 distilleries across the state, celebrating craft, history and tradition.

Additional highlights you can’t miss:

New luxury and wellness resorts like Southall in Franklin, 30 minutes outside of Nashville
Stargaze along the new Night Sky Trail in Northeast Tennessee
Get a Taste of Tennessee’s culinary scene with chef-driven restaurants, made in TN food festivals and iconic dishes like barbecue and hot chicken

ABOUT TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on social media for travel inspiration.

Media Contacts:

Amanda Murphy

Amanda.Murphy@tn.gov

Jill Kilgore

Jill.Kilgore@tn.gov

Alli Lapps

Alli.Lapps@tn.gov