7. Dollywood
Named after, inspired by and partially owned by country star Dolly Parton, Pigeon Forge’s Dollywood offers 160 acres of kid-friendly thrill rides, live shows, entertainment and plenty of Southern-inspired dining. Dollywood’s Splash Country, the water park, features mountain views and exciting slides like the 70-foot-high Fire Tower Falls and the high-speed Tail Spin Racer. If you prefer, grab a tube and ride the water in the wave pool or relax while floating down a 1,500-foot lazy river.
8. Chattanooga
Chattanooga sits on the banks of the Tennessee River in the Appalachian Mountains, bordering Georgia. The city boasts impressive museums, fun things to do, a vibrant downtown area, and lively shopping and arts districts. Major attractions include the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Zoo, Lookout Mountain and the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, the oldest and largest of the U.S. Civil War parks.