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Nashville is one of the most popular cities in America. Yes, summer temperatures in Music City reach the high 90s, but we’re talking about the city’s newfound popularity in recent years.
Whether it’s weekend getaways, fun festivals, or a rise in the real estate market, Nashville is on fire!
These flames cannot be extinguished for travelers.
When you visit Nashville, you can’t help but see the crowds pouring into the streets, especially Broadway, a bustling line of sports fans, honky-tonkers and barbecue enthusiasts.
This vibrant city has put Tennessee on the map as one of America’s trendiest states, and there’s plenty more to explore, all while stretching your budget.
Nashville does breaking tourist records Both in terms of expenditure and visitor numbers.
With nearly 17 million tourists, there’s no better time to skip the crowds and explore Tennessee’s cheaper hidden gems.
Franklin: Nashville’s nearby little brother
Do you want to escape the busy city life and live somewhere close by?
Look no further than the much smaller city of Franklin, home to less busy streets that ooze charm and character just 30 minutes away.
Quite the opposite of Nashville’s Broadway: expect a quieter city with picturesque scenery at your fingertips, like the 300-acre expanse Owl’s Hill Nature Reserve just north of the city.
Day passes cost just $5. Plus, concerts and other fun events are held here year-round, so you can enjoy live music without stepping foot in Nashville!
However, history buffs will also love Franklin. This former Civil War battlefield pays tribute to the past with historic homes and plantations toursand intriguing museums such as the top-rated Carter Housean important Civil War site.
Often cheaper than Nashville, tourists can easily explore the downtown area on foot and stay in nice hotels such as the trendy ones Upwards less than $120 per night.
Chattanooga: Tennessee Underrated hotspot
Nashville, Memphis and the Great Smoky MouthNtains may steal the spotlight from Tennessee, but Chattanooga is a destination on the rise for a laundry list of reasons.
Nashville isn’t the only one breaking tourism records. In fact, Chattanooga joined the club last year, where locals love to hear visitors rave about their city.
A beautiful city surrounded by navigable mountains and scenic waterways, this underrated gem is a nature lover’s paradise.
So much so that it is called the “outer capital of the South”. Think hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting, but don’t miss the scenic spot. The lover’s leap.
More relaxed than the busy streets of Nashville, visitors can still expect incomparable Tennessee hospitality and phenomenal food, the perfect place to refuel after a day of exploring the great outdoors.
Check out the farm-to-table style Main Street Meat, with an impressive 4.7 rating on Google. You might even see local celebrities drop by, like Tennessee legend Peyton Manning.
While luxury hotels in Nashville often cost upwards of $300, you don’t have to sacrifice luxury or budget in Chattanooga with four-star stays like the beautiful Hotel Chalet from $300. $137 upon booking.
Knoxville: where southern charm and beautiful nature meet
Nashville is seeing people from all over the country moving to their city, so it’s fair to wonder if “southern hospitality” still holds true.
Despite being a college town, Knoxville is Real Tennessee with homey charm, friendly locals and easy access to the famous Great Smoky Mountains.
Home to distilleries, bustling rooftop bars along Gay Street and Market Square, and World’s Fair Park with lively festivals year-round. Knoxville has many comparisons to Nashville, but it is not as crowded or expensive.
One of the more unique attractions is the 3 River walkera family train ride along the Tennessee River, reopening September 1.
Pigeon Forge: Family Fun in the Smoky Mountains
Perhaps the most family-friendly destination in Tennessee, Pigeon Forge offers plenty of fun for all ages.
With not one but two hotels in Margaritaville for the adults and thrilling Dollywood attractions for the kids, there’s never a dull moment in this beautiful mountain town.
In addition to endless shopping and delicious restaurants, you can also go there The islandPigeon Forge makes for another great base camp from which to explore the beautiful Smoky Mountains.
Instead of spending money on a fancy hotel, relax in a cozy hotel Pigeon Forge Cabin tucked away, surrounded by peaceful nature.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
