Bucket list places in Tennessee to take your kids before they grow up
Tennessee is a state full of big adventures, hidden gems, and family-friendly wonders you’ll want your kids to experience before they’re grown. From caves and waterfalls to mountaintop views and whimsical rock gardens, there’s no shortage of unforgettable memories waiting to be made. If you’re planning a trip to the Volunteer State, here are some incredible bucket list places to explore together.
South Cumberland State Park
Start your journey in the quiet woods of South Cumberland State Park. This serene spot feels like stepping into another world, with its mossy trails and peaceful sounds of rushing water. The hike to Foster Falls is especially magical—cross the swinging bridge, wander beneath tall trees, and soak up the natural beauty that makes Tennessee such a treasure for outdoor families.
Anakeesta
High above Gatlinburg, there’s a mountaintop adventure unlike anywhere else: Anakeesta. Your family will love the scenic chairlift ride to the top, and the breathtaking views once you get there. From zipping down alpine coasters to climbing the observation tower for a full 360° look at the Smokies and playing in the made-for-kids treehouse playground, Anakeesta is the perfect spot to spend the day exploring and making memories with your kids.
Burgess Falls State Park
If your family loves chasing waterfalls, Burgess Falls should definitely be on your must-see Tennessee list. The trail winds past a series of stunning cascades before arriving at the showstopper: a massive waterfall plunging into a deep gorge. The trail is not too long with minimal elevation, making it a great spot for families.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
When it comes to waterfalls, Fall Creek Falls is in a league of its own. At over 250 feet tall, it’s the tallest waterfall in the Eastern United States. It’s a little bit of an adventure hiking down to the base, but totally worth it to stand in the spray and look up at the towering curtain of water.
Rock City
Part fairytale, part natural wonder, Rock City is one of Tennessee’s most iconic attractions. The winding trail takes you through towering boulders, narrow passages like “Fat Man’s Squeeze,” and magical spots like Fairyland Caverns. Don’t miss the view from Lover’s Leap, where you can see seven states on a clear day.
Great Smoky Mountain National Park
No Tennessee bucket list is complete without the Smokies. As the most visited National Park in the U.S., it’s full of family-friendly hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re spotting wildlife in Cade’s Cove, dipping your toes in a mountain stream, or watching the sunset from Clingmans Dome, the Smokies are pure magic for kids and parents alike.
Read our full kid friendly GSMNP guide here!
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park
For a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, take your kids to Pickett CCC Memorial State Park. The highlight is Hazard Cave, a massive rock shelter that feels like a natural fortress. The Ladder Trail is another family favorite; short, fun, and packed with just enough challenge to make kids feel like explorers.
While you’re in the area, head north just a bit into Kentucky to check out Daniel Boone National Forest!
The Lost Sea
Don’t miss this epic underground adventure: a visit to The Lost Sea. Your family will journey deep into the caverns, exploring fascinating rock formations before reaching America’s largest underground lake. Here, you’ll board a boat and glide across the crystal-clear waters, all while underground in the cave.
From the heights of the Smokies to the depths of hidden caves, Tennessee is full of adventures that spark wonder, fuel curiosity, and bring families closer together. These are the bucket list destinations your kids will remember long after they’ve grown.
