11 Top Places To Visit In Tennessee This Fall
The fall season brings out Tennessee's natural beauty like no other time of year. Between early October and mid-November, the changing leaves put on a mesmerizing show, lighting the mountainsides and hardwood forests with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Mild daytime temperatures and crisp nights encourage exploring outdoor treasures like parks, pumpkin patches, and scenic byways. The crowds have also dwindled from the summer months, allowing more opportunities for solitude amid the splendid scenery and indulgence in family-friendly fall festivals.
It's the ideal time to bask in the splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains, hike through Cherokee National Forest, or take river excursions past the picturesque foliage. Whether hiking the Appalachian Trail in Erwin or getting lost in a corn maze at Springfield's Honeysuckle Hill Farm, these top places to visit in Tennessee are perfectly positioned to witness nature's finest artwork on display across the Volunteer State during the magnificent fall months.
Townsend
Popularly known for being the quieter side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Townsend lets you take in the wonders of fall inside Tennessee's crowning jewel without the bustle. It is the closest town to Cades Cove, where verdant valley views, thriving wildlife, and historic cabins make it one of the most popular stops in the park. Winding pathways along the Cades Cove Loop immerse you in the beauty of the season, with picture-perfect opportunities to capture the brilliant colorways of the surrounding mountains on your camera.
The mild temperatures are ideal for venturing outdoors through the Vee Hollow Bike Trails. This impressive network of mountain biking routes spans 14 miles and poses a satisfying challenge, rewarding adventurers with scenic overlooks along the way. The Townsend Falls Heritage Festival adds a family-friendly twist to the experience as locals gather to mark the season with Bluegrass music, great Southern food, arts and crafts, and other fun activities.
Erwin
If you love the outdoor lifestyle, it doesn't get better than this quaint village in Unicoi County. Erwin is tucked inside the Cherokee National Forest, which places you in the ideal space to witness the kaleidoscope of changing leaves in the fall. Guests have a chance to discover the famous Appalachian Trail, stretching nine challenging miles between the Nolichucky River and the Indian Grave Gap. The conditions are relatively mild and suitable for a trek through the dense woods, with a chance to spend the night curled up in a cozy cabin at the Nolichucky Gorge Campground & Cabins.
The rough waters of the Nolichucky River present an adrenaline-inducing rafting adventure courtesy of local outfitters like Blue Ridge Paddling. Meanwhile, the Apple Festival in October is one of Unicoi County's most anticipated fall events, bringing together over 100,000 attendees to celebrate a long-held tradition with apple pies, crafts, and music on the streets of downtown Erwin.
Pigeon Forge
This mountain community in eastern Tennessee spoils vacationers with incredible vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains. The fall season brings changing hues, pumpkin patches, and crisp mountain air as the city beams with autumn decor, activities, and events. Several thrill rides, including the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster and Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, provide an exhilarating way of experiencing the magical scenery in the Smoky Mountains. They feature 360-degree turns, unexpected twists, and numerous surprises along the way.
The Dollywood Harvest Festival highlights the many fall events in Pigeon Forge. This annual extravaganza treats locals and visitors to one-of-a-kind crafts, sweet-tasting desserts, great music, and an award-winning pumpkin lighting experience. Thanks to the many amusement parks in the town, the atmosphere remains festive from May to September. Tourists can take advantage of endless water fun, including giant water slides and a lazy river, across the 35 acres of Dollywood's Splash Country.
Millington
Spend a gratifying autumn vacation outside the chaotic scene of Memphis in this tiny Shelby County village. Home to the 13,000-acre Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, this dense wilderness comes alive towards the end of October with a myriad of shades on its mix of gigantic oak, elm, and beech trees. Over 20 miles of scenic trails traverse the park, including the Chickasaw Bluff Trail, which visitors can hike to discover local wildlife and fantastic scenery.
Another must-visit destination, Jones Orchard, offers a 10-acre maze and pumpkin patch where families can take remarkable photo ops with giant pumpkins. The on-site cafe serves delicious homemade ice cream. Those who don't mind a little scare can brave the haunted attractions at the Jones Shadowlands Festival of Fear for unforgettable encounters.
Spencer
This quiet village of Van Buren County boasts one of Tennessee's most rewarding fall scenes. It is home to Fall Creek Falls State Park, which harbors the Falls Creek Falls. The state's highest waterfall is a sight to behold against the backdrop of changing leaves reflecting on its shiny waters. Vacationers savor unprecedented photo opportunities while walking along secluded trails through the sprawling nature area. Those who fancy extended stays can access over 200 campsites and cabins across the beautiful park.
The area is also filled with cascading waterfalls, overlooks, and mountain biking routes that allow you to immerse in the great outdoors. You can admire the scenes during a drive on the loop road between Piney Creek Falls and Fall Creek Falls. Alternatively, the annual Mountaineer Folk Festival held inside Fall Creek Falls State Park promises more family-friendly fun, ranging from live music and craft vendors to boating and fishing.
Crossville
A trip to Crossville in autumn exposes you to some of the most picturesque sceneries during the leaf-peeping period. The area is a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts, a credit to the 1,720-acre Cumberland Mountain State Park it houses. Besides the radiant colors that light up the park, it is a popular fishing spot where ardent anglers can fish for trout, bluegill, and catfish on Byrd Lake. Numerous hiking trails, such as the mile-long Cumberland Plateau Trail and Pioneer Trail Loops, provide an avenue to indulge in the many recreational adventures the nature space offers.
Downtown Crossville invites visitors to interact with residents as they shop for crafts and treats at its seasonal markets. The Crossville Flea Market has everything, from fresh produce and handmade crafts to delicious dishes sold reasonably in a family-friendly setting.
Gatlinburg
Consistently ranked among the top destinations in the country to witness fall foliage, Gatlinburg is one of the best places to visit in Tennessee. It is set against the scenic backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, and from mid to late October, tourists have the best chance of catching the changing leaves. A challenging climb to the summit of the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook delivers unbeatable vistas of the surrounding mountains when painted with red, orange, and yellow hues. This also means the ideal photo opportunity to document the majestic scenery from a bird's eye perspective.
Driving down the Gatlinburg Bypass, which straddles the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, allows visitors to soak up the panoramic fall views during a satisfying 3.6-mile trip. Finally, the Smoky Mountains Fall Festival at Gatlinburg's Ober Mountain helps to spread the cheer with delicious dishes, German beers, live music, and giant pumpkin carvings.
Springfield
Situated about 30 miles north of Nashville, Springfield entices newcomers with its history, art, and farm fun. Come autumn, tourists flock to Honeysuckle Hill Farm for childsafe entertainment at its annual pumpkin patch and corn maze. Kids take pleasure in over 70 rides, an adventure park, a carousel, giant slides, and other enthralling shows, while adults get lost in the endless corn maze. Meanwhile, Garner Street Park lets guests experience a fall wonderland with its wooded surroundings displaying transitioning leaf coloration. It is famous for its Greenway trailhead, the ideal platform to admire the scenery.
September is also time for the Art in the Park festival, held at the J. Travice Price Park. This annual celebration of the arts sees over 75 artisans coming together to showcase their creative works as residents enjoy live music, art demos, fantastic food, and more.
Sevierville
Bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the south, Sevierville is surrounded by scenic natural treasures perfect for discovering in mild fall temperatures. A hike down the Harrisburg Covered Bridge allows travelers to inspect a well-preserved historical landmark from the 19th century and a colorful display of changing leaves from the woods encircling the structure. Unrivaled vistas of the Little Pigeon River also beckon them to draw their cameras and make the most of their photo opportunity.
The Forbidden Caverns, near the Smoky Mountains, offer a wild underground adventure. Tourists can explore spectacular stalactites and mystic formations in one of the country's most impressive cave systems. Sevierville also hosts the Wears Valley Fall Festival annually, celebrating regional arts and crafts through a unique showcasing by over 200 talented artists.
Tellico Plains
This self-proclaimed "vintage mountain town" is a suitable base for experiencing Tennessee's amazing transition into fall. It is a gateway to the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile National Scenic Byway that lights up in the season. Roadtrippers will be rewarded with spellbinding vistas of dense woodlands and waterfalls, as well as access to trails and campsites.
Hiking is a prime activity in the town, especially in the cozy autumn conditions. Outdoor lovers can bring their gear to discover gorgeous waterfalls while venturing along the Conasauga Falls Trail or Baby Falls, a 15-foot cascade on the Tellico River.
Leiper's Fork
Leiper's Fork goes big on herbage once the leaf-peeping season comes around. One of the best ways to take in the gorgeous scenery is to drive along the Natchez Park Traceway, which traverses the heart of the town. Alternatively, you can rent an electric bike from the nearby Pedego store in downtown Franklin for a more laid-back cruise on the picturesque byway to savor all the feelings of fall. A trip to Leiper's Fork Distillery helps you shake off the autumn chill with a taste of rich whiskey prepared from time-honored techniques.
Meanwhile, you can head to Fox & Locke for a surreal evening. Listen to live music while indulging in sumptuous Southern comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere. This restored 1947 grocery store serves delicacies like collard greens, Mac & Cheese, and ice-cold beers.
Final Thought
Spending fall in Tennessee promises unforgettable scenic experiences and cultural encounters. From a long-held craft festival in Sevierville to unmatched Smoky Mountains foliage vistas in Townsend, these places to visit highlight the best autumn in the Volunteer State. Whether leisurely taking in sweeping views or sampling handcrafted gifts, immersing yourself in the seasonal beauty and southern hospitality is sure to create lasting memories. The natural splendor on full display makes a fall trip one to remember for years.
