May is finally here, and Spring is slowly transitioning into summer. The state of Tennessee is in bloom and is considered a top destination for tourists because of its scenic beauty and perfect weather. May is considered the best month to explore the Volunteer State, as it has something to offer for everyone. If you are someone who wants to know more about the places you can visit in Tennessee in May, this article is for you. It brings you a detailed list of the top 10 places to visit in May and the activities you can do in these places.
1. Nashville
As we enter the month of May, Nashville is ready to welcome tourists with various festivals and activities. In case you love horses and decide to visit Nashville in May, you will have the opportunity to attend the Iroquois Steeplechase, which is an iconic horse race. You can also enjoy free live music performances of various genres at the Musicians Corner. If you visit Nashville in the early days of May, you can also experience the iconic Water Lantern Festival at Watauga Lake.
2. Memphis
Memphis is also ready to welcome tourists with its rich cultural heritage and history. People who visit Memphis in May must visit Graceland, the main tourist attraction of the city, and explore Elvis Presley’s legacy. You can also have a walk through Beale Street and enjoy the vibrant music festivals and bars. If you are a food lover, you can have a chance to attend the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, with 250 teams competing.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you are visiting Tennessee in May, you can definitely not ignore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The lush greenery and the scenic views in the mountains are the best thing to do to beat the scorching summer heat. Those who love hiking can hike to the Clingmans Dome, which is at a height of 6,643 feet. You can explore wildlife and greenery at Cades Cove and witness the stunning beauty of Laurel Falls.
4. Chattanooga
Chattanooga is also considered one of the top 10 tourist attractions in May, as it offers something for everyone. People who love scenic beauty can visit the Rock City Gardens or the Ruby Falls. You can also take a 13-mile river walk or ride the iconic Incline Railway. For food lovers, Chattanooga holds various festivals in May, like the Taco Festival or the Beer Fest. On the other hand, for fitness freaks, it holds the IRONMAN 70.3 event, which is a triathlon featuring a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, and 13.1-mile run.
5. Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is another one of the top places you must visit during your next trip to Tennessee in May. The city holds multiple exciting festivals that will keep you entertained throughout the visit. You can attend the Mountains Music Parade as well as the Wilderness Wildlife Week in the month of May. Dollywood’s Splash Country also opens for visitors in May, offering thrilling water rides. If you are into scenic beauty, you can enjoy the chairlift rides in the Smoky Mountains as well.
6. Franklin
Franklin is a city in Tennessee that is one of the most popular attractions for those interested in history and culture. Those who are lovers of history can also visit the Franklin Downtown Historic District, which has 16 blocks filled with Victorian-era architecture. It is also holding a number of festivals in the month of May, including the Franklin Rodeo Parade and 19 Miles to Music Row.
7. Knoxville
Knoxville, in the month of May, is full of music lovers and foodies. The city is going to hold various festivals in May, like the Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival and the Children’s Festival of Reading. If you are a Jazz music lover, you will definitely love the performances happening every Tuesday on the Market Square. You can also visit the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, which also offers seasonal events for Spring.
8. Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is also one of the best tourist attractions places in the state for visitors. The city features Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival, which is held in May and showcases flower displays full of vibrance. You can also visit the iconic Titanic Museum, which offers visitors insights into the history of the ill-fated voyage.
9. Johnson City
Johnson City is another attraction that offers various exciting events for people visiting Tennessee. You can attend the Fridays After 5 Concert Series with live performances at King Commons. If you are someone who loves Jazz music, you can also enjoy the Johnson City Jazz Festival in May. On the other hand, if you love scenic beauty, the Tweetsie Trail is what will attract you the most in Johnson City.
10. Reelfoot Lake State
May is considered the best time to visit the Reelfoot Lake State, which is located in the city of Tiptonville in Tennessee. This is the best place in Tennessee for those who love scenic beauty and wildlife. You can opt for a 3-hour-long boat cruise in Reelfoot Lake or enjoy hiking at various popular trails like the Airpark Trail, the Keystone Trail, or the Black Bayou Trail. This will offer you an opportunity to see wildlife like ospreys, herons, and various songbirds, along with over 200 species of birds.
