Top Nature Spots in Tennessee

don’t overspend on fancy dining; pack a picnic! i found some beautiful picnic spots along the parkway—eating outside with that view was epic. plus, you can save your cash for fun souvenirs.

I suggest exploring some off-the-beaten-path trails like Craggy Gardens. They’re often less crowded and just as stunning as the popular spots. I found some lovely wildflowers there too!

Check the park's event schedule ahead of time. I stumbled upon a live music event that was totally unexpected and added so much to my visit!

Bring some snacks and drinks. There are picnic spots everywhere, and it’s a great way to relax without spending extra on food at nearby cafes.

Wear comfortable shoes! The park is huge, and there's so much to explore – from the Parthenon to gardens. You’ll want to walk around without sore feet.

Plan to visit on a weekday if you can. I went on a Saturday and it was a bit crowded making it harder to find a quiet spot to enjoy!

Check out the souvenir shop for local goodies! I found some really cute handmade items at good prices. While some stuff can be a bit touristy, the unique finds were well worth it.

If you're looking to save some cash, pack a picnic! The food inside can be pricey, and there are nice areas to eat outside

I recommend arriving right when the zoo opens at 9 AM. It's much less crowded then, and you'll get to see the animals more active before they chill out in the heat.

Don't miss the Lorikeet Landing! It was a blast to feed them, but get some nectar tickets when you enter to avoid long lines later.

My advice is to check the schedule for animal feedings and shows when you arrive. We missed some cool things because we didn’t plan it out ahead.

If you're going for the best pictures, bring a good camera. The lighting is a bit tricky in the cave, but the falls are super photogenic when you get the angle right!

Wear comfortable shoes! The paths can get a little slippery and uneven, so you'll want to be sure you're steady on your feet.

Plan to wrap up your visit by 5 PM. That way you can catch the sunset views from the lookout—it’s absolutely stunning!

My advice is to wear sturdy shoes. The cave paths can be slippery and you'll want to be comfortable when exploring all the cool formations.

If you have time, definitely explore the gift shop afterward. They have some really unique souvenirs that aren't overpriced, so it's worth the stop!

Bring a picnic! There's so much green space to relax and eat. I brought some snacks from a local deli, and it saved me some cash compared to restaurants nearby.

I suggest checking for seasonal events before you go. I missed the butterfly release event by a week, and I was bummed, so I’ll plan better next time.

I recommend visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowds. It was so peaceful on a Tuesday morning, and I got some great photos without people everywhere.

Don’t skip the gift shop! I found some unique local crafts and plants that were reasonably priced. Way better than typical souvenir shops.

Bring a picnic. There are some stunning spots to sit and enjoy your food. I grabbed lunch nearby and ate among the flowers, which was a lovely experience

if you want to save some cash, pack a picnic! there are plenty of nice spots to eat, and the park's atmosphere is just perfect for it.

I think it's a good idea to wear sturdy shoes – some trails get pretty rocky and uneven. I learned the hard way after a little slip!

My advice is to check the park's events calendar before you go. I stumbled upon a fun local event, but I wished I had planned better to catch it all.

My advice is to bring a camera! The park's landscapes and the river views are Instagram-worthy, and you might want to capture those moments. Just be ready to walk around a bit for the best shots!

If you're looking to save a few bucks, pack a picnic instead of dining at nearby restaurants. There are plenty of spots to sit and eat lunch while enjoying the lovely scenery.

I suggest hitting up Cumberland Park early in the morning, around 8 AM, for a nice vibe and to avoid the crowds. The park is super peaceful then, and you can really enjoy the views without anyone in your way