The Best Tennessee Travel Destination For Retirees
Now that you are no longer tied down by the stressful restraints of a life employed and have earned that much-needed respite to simply enjoy a life of travel, the great state of Tennessee is waiting for you. Tennessee's small towns are a retiree's dream, offering an exciting blend of relaxation and adventure. With the Great Smoky Mountains as a backdrop, retirees can explore a region rich in natural beauty and history. The Smokies are home to over 800 miles of hiking trails, making it a paradise for those passionate about the great outdoors. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also one of the most biodiverse areas in the United States, with more than 19,000 documented species, ensuring every visit feels like a discovery. Plus, the peaks rise to over 6,600 feet, offering the most captivating views that are hard to forget.
In towns like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, seniors can enjoy various accessible activities, from arts and crafts festivals to relaxing in hot tubs while admiring the starry night sky. Whether it is the charm of historic downtowns or the allure of nature's adventures, these nine small Tennessee towns create the perfect getaway where retirees can relish life at their own pace.
Morristown
This town is an excellent destination for anyone looking to get out in nature, no matter the mobility range. Morristown's landscape includes Panther Creek State Park, where retirees can explore well-maintained trails that offer gentle walks alongside Cherokee Lake. The park also features picnic areas, making enjoying a comfortable lunch in nature with friends easy. Fishing and boating out on the lake waters is a favored local pastime, and it is a great way to escape from it all and just unwind. If rougher terrain is what you are after, you can find intense hiking trails thanks to the Smoky Mountains. Needless to say, the camping opportunities of this town are a highlight and numerous, making it an ideal spot for a proper spring or summertime retreat.
Morristown is also 15 minutes from the site of the annual Hamblen County Fair, a lively event where the town dazzles visitors with local crafts, music, and cuisine, creating perfect opportunities for socializing and mingling with both residents and other travelers. Additionally, the town has several dining options featuring Southern comfort food, like Aubrey’s Morristown or Tennessee Jack’s on the Town, ensuring every meal is a delightful experience.
Cookeville
If, during your retirement years, you have taken up art as one of your passions, then Cookeville is a prime destination for a fulfilling getaway. The arts scene flourishes here, with galleries such as PhotoArt Studio & Gallery, where local talent is showcased proudly. This November 8th and 9th, the gallery is hosting an art crawl with thirty-three stops in the area, over eighty artists, live demonstrations, and even a shuttle service to transport you to all the action. Be sure to visit their website to purchase a wristband that grants you access to the shuttles ahead of time. The money raised goes to fund scholarships for local students.
Dogwood Park is perfect for going on a quick stroll during your visit, where well-maintained paths lead through lovely gardens, a treat for anyone who appreciates nature. Just a short drive away, the Cumberland Plateau invites travelers to explore beautiful hiking trails that are certain to get the heart rate up and blood pumping. Each fall, the Cookeville Fall Fun Fest attracts families and retirees alike, where they find crafts, great food, country music, and much more entertainment. It is truly a great time to swing into town and stroll the streets with the residents, taking in the festive spirit.
Sevierville
Sevierville is the perfect gateway to adventure, particularly for retirees eager to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and other outdoor activities. This town's options are endless, from hiking trails to serene fishing spots; there are even the Forbidden Cavern caves to explore. Everything in this town caters to various fitness levels. To relive your youth, try out one of the ziplining options that cut through lush forests for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Of course, no visit to town could be completed without a visit to the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo. Here, seniors can have their hearts melted by the adorable faces of zebras, camels, emu, and even go horseback riding.
Little Pigeon River is a fisherman's paradise and is said to be home to some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the country. If you are looking for a picture-perfect moment to memorialize your visit to this charming town, there is no better place to do it than the Dolly Parton Statue, paying homage to the Sevierville native. History enthusiasts could also make a stop at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation. Lastly, events like the annual Bloomin’ Barbeque & Bluegrass Festival, held in the spring, bring the community together for food and live music, creating an inviting atmosphere, and it is the perfect excuse to bring you to town to enjoy all the other experiences it has to offer.
Gatlinburg
This town serves as a gateway to the Smoky Mountains, with dozens of miles of walking trails and outdoor recreation, practically a lifestyle in Gatlinburg. If surrounding yourself in nature is how you like to get away for a little excitement, this is the town for you. Seniors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Gatlinburg Trail, an easy path that allows for breathtaking views without the need for strenuous hiking. The peak of Anakeesta Mountain is easily accessible by taking a ride on the famous chondola, or you can take a ride to Ober Mountain on the Aerial Tram.
One of the many great aspects of this town is the abundance of cabins that can be rented from the town’s official website as well as Airbnb during the colder months. During winter, Gatlinburg transforms into a festive wonderland with annual celebrations like the December 6th Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade that bring the community together, making it a cozy retreat. Finally, local distilleries, like the Ole Smoky Whiskey Distillery, welcome seniors for tastings and tours, offering a glimpse into the art of craft spirits.
Maryville
Maryville is a hidden treasure that is perfect for retirees seeking relaxation. The town features a variety of parks, including the breathtaking Bicentennial Park area, where seniors can enjoy casual walks, have a picnic, or find the perfect spot to set up the canvas and paint the beautiful scenery. Numerous hiking trails and outdoor spaces allow for easy access to nature without overwhelming challenges. The Maryville Greenway is a town favorite for a comfortable jog or simply taking a morning stroll with friends surrounded by the natural splendor of Tennessee. The Look Rock-Viewing Platform gives you a captivating view of the Smoky Mountains, surrounding forest, and lakes of the area.
The town is also an excellent destination for those retirees looking to rekindle the flames of romance, offering great options for cozy and romantic retreats in cabins scattered throughout the area. The Little River Tiny House, equipped with a hot tub, is famous for setting the perfect scene to remind lifelong lovers of all the things that brought them together so many years ago. Additionally, The Walnut Kitchen and other such dining options include local eateries focused on farm-to-table cuisine, ensuring that meals are both delicious and fresh while also adding to the romantic flair of the town.
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is a fantastic vacation destination for those seeking adventure and is a mecca of theme parks. One of the main attractions is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where seniors can enjoy easy-access trails and scenic drives, such as the Cades Cove Loop Road. On this 11-mile route, you will find stunning views of wildlife and impressive foliage your-round without the need for strenuous hiking. For those interested in the arts, the town hosts a variety of shows, including the popular Dolly Parton’s Stampede, where guests can enjoy a delightful dinner while watching a captivating performance.
Speaking of Dolly, this town just so happens to be the location of the world-famous Dollywood. Here is an adventure comprising fifty world-class rides spread across 150 acres in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Aside from Dollywood, there are nearly a dozen other amusement parks for you to explore. The Island in Pigeon Forge is a town gem, with shops, restaurants, and a large fountain that puts on a spectacular light show. Many of the attractions here are senior-friendly, with plenty of seating and accessible pathways.
Johnson City
If you would like a vacation steeped in the very essence of nature or have a passion for music, Johnson City should certainly be a town on your list of must-visit destinations. The music scene here is a force to be reckoned with, especially with bluegrass and Appalachian genres that bring a lively spirit to local venues. The annual Blue Plum Festival celebrates local talent through music and arts, making it an event worth attending. Since 1999, the festival has brought music, games, and food to the downtown area for a weekend of family fun. This year, the center stage saw performances by nearly twenty different artists and groups.
Outdoor lovers will appreciate the town’s proximity to Boone Lake, just fifteen minutes from town, and Buffalo Mountain Park, perfect for fishing or relaxing hikes amongst the trees, babbling brooks, and small waterfalls. Scenic drives through the Appalachian Mountains provide an excellent way to enjoy fall colors or spring blooms, and the best part is it does not matter what level of mobility you have; this is one feature of the town no one should miss.
Lebanon
Lebanon invites visitors with a blend of history and Southern hospitality that is unmatched in the state, making it a fantastic stop for retirees. The historic Lebanon Square, alongside the Old Baird Chapel, demonstrates the town's rich heritage, granting you the chance to step through history surrounded by architecture that tells the story of the town's development. Each August, the Tennessee State Fair brings local arts, crafts, and food to the forefront, providing a vibrant experience for all ages. This event welcomes travelers from all over the United States into the embrace of Southern charm and celebration.
The town sits on a web of small streams and creeks that serve as great spots for fishing, setting up the grill, and having a nice picnic. It is perfect for those who appreciate a peaceful day on the water. Parks such as the Don Fox Community Park have walking trails and even more picnic areas to encourage relaxation and socialization with locals. What's more, if you want a taste of the big city without all the hassle, Lebanon's proximity to Nashville makes day trips easy without the stress of urban accommodations and navigation.
Tullahoma
The offerings of Tullahoma are as diverse as the residents who live there. This is a town you will not regret stopping in as you enjoy a vacation after a much-earned retirement. The Tullahoma Fine Arts Center shows off the local talent and hosts art shows and performances that keep the cultural scene alive. It also offers art classes so make sure to book a slot during your visit. In this town, visitors can also experience the iconic Machine Falls located in Machines Falls Park, a breathtaking waterfall that creates a truly picture-perfect memory to take home and hang on the wall. Outdoor recreation does not stop there. Tims Ford State Park, less than twenty minutes away, is where seniors can enjoy a slow-paced afternoon of fishing, hiking, and picnicking. Meanwhile, The Woods Reservoir has some of the best views in the area and gives way to even more waterfront adventure. Moreover, the annual Tullahoma Arts and Crafts Festival brings the community together to praise the works of local artisans, providing a wonderful opportunity to find handmade treasures.
Conclusion
From the majestic Smoky Mountains to charming downtown squares, these destinations are designed for exploration without the hustle. Imagine sipping sweet tea on a front porch, catching live music, or wandering through vibrant local markets while making new friends who share your zest for life. With accessible attractions, delightful dining options, and plenty of opportunities for leisurely strolls, there is never a dull moment. Whether it is the cultural treasures in Johnson City or the serene parks in Morristown, every corner of Tennessee invites retirees to indulge in a lifestyle that balances activity with tranquility.
