So you’ve spent a day or two with us rafting in Ocoee and you’re still buzzing with adrenaline to do some more fun activities and explore our great state further. Well, we have good news – Tennessee has plenty to do for everyone. From theme parks to whiskey distilleries with plenty of famous musical trials in between – here are some entertaining things to do once you’re all rafted out:
Sun Studio
Memphis, Tennessee is famously hailed as the birthplace of rock and roll. Sun Studio located on Union Avenue is the iconic recording studio that many believe produced the first-ever rock n roll single – Rocket 88. To this day it is still a recording studio but it also doubles up as a shrine to the iconic genre of music it birthed. Come see where Elvis recorded his first-ever record and hear the inside stories of B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Roy Orbison among others. There are plenty of fascinating artifacts to gaze upon and free shuttles are also provided to other iconic rock n roll sites such as Graceland and the Rock N’ Soul Museum making this an ideal starting point for your Memphis musical adventure.
Graceland
Once you’ve visited Sun Studio, this may feel the most logical next step to take in Memphis. Graceland is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the United States of America and an absolute must for any fan of Elvis Presley. Graceland gives you the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the life and times of The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with engaging and interactive experiences. There are museums dedicated to both his career and his love for automobiles as well as various exhibits in this 200,000-square-feet state-of-the-art entertainment complex. You can even step aboard his personal airplane and see how Elvis traveled around in luxury. Dining and accommodation facilities are also on-site at this unmissable Elvis shrine that you can’t help falling in love with. So put on your blue suede shoes and get ready for a date with Elvis.
Jack Daniel’s Distillery
Tennesee, of course, is not only famed for its music, but also for its whiskey. Jack Daniel’s is widely regarded as Tennesee’s best whiskey so therefore a visit to the world-famous drink’s distillery is a must for many. Located in Lynchburg, the distillery can be found in a beautiful setting where the aroma exuding from the whiskey barrels really pop. Inside you can do some memorable Tennessee whiskey tasting and learn all about the history of the Old Number 7 and other JD labels. Just remember – don’t call it bourbon!
The Discovery Park Of America
Located in Union, Tennessee the Discovery Park of America is one of the most entertaining places you can visit in the state. It is home to a multitude of fun activities for all the family, the highlight of which is the 100,000 square foot Discovery Center. The center showcases eleven different exhibits, including one that changes season to season. Some of the attractions are stunning such as the 20,000-gallon aquarium and a 60-foot replica of the human body complete with a slide! Many visitors get all shook up by the earthquake simulator while you can also find a museum, park and garden on the grounds.
Dollywood
Dolly Parton is an American institution and her theme park in Pigeon Forge is well worth a visit. Thrilling rides, a water park, stage shows and seasonal festivals mean it is the biggest ticketed tourist attraction in Tennessee, and for good reason. Dollywood hosts a vast array of shows, festivals and concerts throughout the year while it also showcases crafts and arts of the Smoky Mountains. Plenty of other attractions and amenities are available on the grounds including dining and accommodation facilities. There’s even a Doggywood at Dollywood if you want to bring your pet along for their own special experience as, after all, we like to take our best furry friend everywhere.
