Are you looking for fun and affordable things to do in Chattanooga, TN? Whether you’re a lone traveler or taking a family vacation, this city is teeming with plenty of attractions that let the whole gang explore without spending too much money! From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, there are numerous ways to experience Tennessee’s…
The Smoky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited in the country and Gatlinburg Tennessee is the gateway to the smokies. While visiting there are 22 free things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee that you will not want to miss. You can do these at any time of the year so grab our…
There’s a lot to love about Nashville, and thankfully, many of the city’s best attractions are free! Whether you’re looking to explore music history, enjoy the great outdoors, or just take in some culture, these 45 activities will help keep your budget in check. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!…
Visiting local aquariums has always been a fun thing for us to do as we travel. My kids, especially, love seeing the sea life. I think it’s exciting because sea life isn’t something you get to see every day. Seeing dolphins, sharks, and exotic fish is exciting to many people. As we travel the USA,…
Have you ever been to Knoxville and tried one of their food challenges? If not, it definitely should be on your list of things to do! They have some of the best food in the South, and what better way to experience it than by trying to complete one of the famous food challenges. I’m…
The city of Nashville is known for a lot. It’s known for its good food and well-known for its country music. Because of the town’s popularity, you can almost bet there are dozens of food challenges you don’t know about. Just when you think you’ve tried them all, another fun food challenge pops up! Check…
Collecting mementos from places you visit is something that keeps the memories alive. One of the cheapest and most practical ways of snatching mementos from your journey is finding a penny squisher machine, better known as pressed penny machines. I always called them squisher machines. Where to Find Pressed Penny Machines Across the U.S. Pressed…
When you go camping in the south, you are most likely looking for water and beaches, a place to do some fishing, and take some nature hikes. So for my free camping in this post, I target some free beaches, some free parks, and many with waterfalls within hiking distance. Many have excellent fishing and…
The one thing my husband was so excited to do was to visit the Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Every time we passed a sign he reminded me. So I surprised him for one of our days out. If you are visiting the Nashville area it’s defiantly worth the trip! We packed up and made the drive…
We love the Smoky Mountain area. The views are just breathtaking and there is just so much to do! Even in the middle of the tourist season I just feel so much more relaxed! That doesn’t mean we blow our budget when we visit! There are 23 free things to do in Pigeon Forge TN! There…
The state of Tennessee has a lot of history along with its fair share of famous people, resources and great places to visit. The weather is also fairly decent year-round, with a long growing season. The Smoky Mountains are not only beautiful for vacationers but offers many activities that you can enjoy. Here’s more Tennessee…
I also love to keep my kids learning when on vacation and with Tennessee being one of our favorite states to visit we have a lot of great Tennessee Field Trips to share on our list. Over 45 Amazing Tennessee Field Trips Make sure to check out the rest of our Tennessee Unit Study perfect for…
When we are doing our Tennessee Unit Study I like to mix in fun crafts for the kids. It gets them hands-on. This is a great time to read a read out loud book to them about the state. These are my top Tennessee Crafts for our unit study! 15 Fun Tennessee Crafts for Kids…
We have started our Tennessee Unit Study and I am now in full planning mode. Next on the list is Tennessee Movies. Most of these are based in Tennessee or Filmed in Tennessee so that we can get a feel for the area. 36 Tennessee Movies You Need to Watch I pair this Tennessee Movie…
When we visit a state I like to get the kids excited about it by reading books and doing workbooks on the area. We also will so read-aloud nonfiction books on the area. I also love reading books set in the area that is how our book lists started. This one has over 35 of…
This post is sponsored by My Pigeon Forge but all trip memories and photos remain my own. For more information on Pigeon Forge, visit their official website. Have you ever wanted to take a vacation and just getaway? Pigeon Forge has always been that place for our family. We love to go there and relax….
Flea markets have got to be one of the coolest things to visit. There are thousands of them across the United States. The big question is what are the top flea markets around the country. You know, which ones are worth visiting? Let me break it down for you! Best Flea Markets – Top 10…
Visiting Memphis for a vacation would typically include a tour of Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. Memphis has many cool places to see, several of which are music-related, so if you enjoy seeing and learning about music history, it is a great stop to make for a few days. If you just passing through…
If you have never been to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you are totally missing out. There are so many things to do there, it can actually be kind of overwhelming to narrow it all down. My family has been to Gatlinburg several times over the years. Check out these Top 10 Things to do in Gatlinburg TN….
One of my favorite places in Eastern Tennessee the mountains are just breathtaking. It’s a slower pace of life and everyone is just friendly. That being said it was so hard to choose to 30 of the Best Things to do in Pigeon Forge TN. I have so much fun while I’m there and never…
Planning a Nashville Vacation? Check out these top 21 things we loved on our trip plus a list of freebies to keep you on a budget! My top favorites were the Loveless Cafe and the Hermitage. Let me know what your favorites were if you visited any of the below. Top 21 Things To Do…
I love visiting the small towns when we are in an area. They have so much history and fewer people so you can really enjoy it. I really enjoyed visiting historic downtown Franklin TN when we were in Nashville. Historic Downtown Franklin Tennessee After we visited the Carter House we drove to downtown Franklin and walked…
Christmas is right around the corner and I am excited! From time to time, you will see us visit a festive town around the holidays! After all, traveling is in our blood and we LOVE Christmas! If you’re looking for the best towns to visit for Christmas, then I have some of the most AWESOME…
Hubby and I have been watching American Pickers on History Channel for years now and love the show! So it was on our must-do, to visit their Antique Archaeology Nashville Tennessee store! While we didn’t get to see Mike or Tim, we still had a blast! This is the perfect rainy day activity in Nashville…
If you’re looking for a dose of southern history and architecture, a visit to the Belmont Mansion in Nashville is a must. This sprawling estate was once home to Adelicia Acklen, one of the richest women in the south. Today, visitors can tour the mansion and its lush gardens, which are full of beautiful statues…
How many of you live for fun food challenges? If you live in the state of Tennessee, you may be wondering what food challenges are lurking around the corner. If you’ve never done a food challenge before, then you’re in for a treat. A food challenge is just what it sounds like, a challenge! Are…
Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, The Hermitage was the plantation home of America’s seventh president, Andrew Jackson. Jackson had an illustrious career in politics and military service, and The Hermitage is now a popular tourist destination for those interested in learning more about his life and times. There are plenty of interesting…
We were looking for things to do that were more homeschool related. I located Cannonsburgh Village in Murfreesboro and the best part? It was FREE! I was sold we headed in with very little knowledge of what this place was about and boy did we learn a lot! This village features buildings from 1800 – 1925…
My husband is a HUGE Johnny Cash fan. This was increased when we were stationed with Carey Cash (Johnny’s Great Nephew, and Author of A Table in the Presence) He was able to hear stories first hand. So when we visit Nashville it was a must to visit the Johnny Cash Grave site and home…
What could be more American than the Johnny Cash Museum? Housed in Nashville, Tennessee, the museum celebrates the life and music of one of America’s most iconic musicians. Whether you’re a fan of country music or not, there’s something for everyone at the Johnny Cash Museum. From exhibits on Cash’s personal life to his incredible…
We LOVE Tennessee. One of our first stops, once we got on the road, was spending a few months just outside Nashville while Hubby worked at Amazon Camperforce in Murfreesboro Tennessee. We can rattle off list after list of things you shouldn’t miss while visiting but let’s concentrate on all the free things available in the state, after…
So if you have been following our recent posts you might have seen that we made a few trips to Lynchburg, Tennessee. Well, 3 to be exact. We loved it! It’s the heart of whiskey country and the town that was built on Jack Daniel’s and completely embraces that fact! Visit the Heart of Whiskey…
I love the Smokey Mountains so when we visited Knoxville, Tennessee, I wanted to find as many free things to do in Knoxville as possible. We loved the area so much that we try to get back to visit whenever we can. If you’re planning a visit to Knoxville, you’ll want to make sure to…
Memphis, in my opinion, is one of the more overlooked cities in the United States. Nashville often overshadows it, but visiting Memphis is one of my favorite things to do in Tennessee! Why? Because there are so many free things to do in Memphis! One could visit the city over and over again and hardly…
Who hasn’t heard of the Loveless Cafe? It’s a staple for Nashville visitors and residents alike, and for good reason. The biscuits are heavenly, the coffee is strong, and the staff is friendly. But what many people don’t know is that there’s more to the Loveless than meets the eye. Behind those famous biscuits lies…
Our recent visit to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park showed us there is a lot more to this park than just the ‘smoky’ mountain peaks you see and a few tourist themed towns! You can plan a whole vacation just around this National Park. Things to do in The Great Smoky Mountain National Park This…
When we were in Tennessee, we made several trips to Murfreesboro and the surrounding areas for the free things to do in Murfreesboro, TN. Out favorite was the Cannonsburgh Villiage. There is so much history there. The area is beautiful, and that makes the local parks a must see! 10 Free Things to do in…
Lynchburg Tennessee: Settlers first arrived in the Lynchburg Tennessee area around 1801. Main Street was originally the main road. It was later incorporated in 1841. No one know for sure how Lynchburg got its name some think it was named after Lynchburg, Virginia. Others say the city was named after an early resident named Tom…
The first time we were in Lynchburg we didn’t realise you needed a reservation for Miss Marry Bobo’s so we made a 2nd trip becaue we loved this small town so much! Let me tell you it was well worth the trip! Jack is said to have taken many a mid-day meal at Miss Mary…
On the way to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery we kept seeing signs for the Lynchburg Cake and Candy Company so we finally decided to stop. So we followed the signs not too far off the main road, surprisingly it’s at the owners house! He had a separate shop and facility to make the cake and candy…
So on our last trip into Lynchburg we were looking for a different place to eat and just off the square, I saw this sign. I knew we HAD to eat here. We hadn’t seen their episode of BBQ Pit Masters but if they had been featured on the show we knew the food had…
When we are in a new area we prefer to eat at Mom and Pop places. They normally have the best food and are unique to the area! Plus you can’t go wrong supporting a local family over a big corporation! Anyway, while in Lynchburg we had lunch at the Iron Kettle. This is a…
This little-known attraction in Lynchburg just off the square has a TON of history! Everything from Jesse James staying here and carving his name in the wall, to a visit from Johnny Cash! They run on donations and don’t charge an entry fee; it’s worth a stop when in town! The jail house was also…
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to explore a plantation from the Civil War era? If so, then Belle Meade Plantation is definitely worth a visit. This historic landmark has been preserved and open to the public since 1967 and offers a glimpse into what life was like for Southern aristocrats during…
If you’re looking for a fun day trip that the whole family will love, you should check out the Nashville Zoo. The zoo is home to hundreds of different animals, making it the perfect place to learn about nature and all its wonders. Plus, there are plenty of activities for kids of all ages, so…
Nashville’s Opry Mills Mall is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from high-end department stores to specialty boutiques. Whether you’re looking for the perfect dress or just want to take in the sights and sounds of one of Tennessee’s most vibrant cities, the mall is a must-visit. Here are some of the top shops you’ll find…
We have a tradition from our Sticks and Bricks house we wanted to keep when got on the road. Generally after my birthday (Dec 7th) we get done with dinner and after dark we get in our PJs and get in the car. We grab cookies and for the kids chocolate milk and the adults…
If you’re a country music fan, the Grand Ole Opry is definitely on your bucket list. It’s been around since 1925 and is one of the most famous country music venues in the world. If you’re looking to experience some of the best country music out there, then a visit to the Grand Ole Opry…
For anyone who loves to shop for Legos, the Lego Store in Nashville is a must-visit. This store has everything from basic blocks and figurines to complex sets and displays. It’s perfect for kids and adults of all ages. And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir from your visit to Music City, be sure…
Have you ever been to the Rainforest Café in Nashville, Tennessee? If not, you’re missing out! This unique restaurant is a fun and exciting experience for the whole family. You’ll feel like you’re dining in the heart of the jungle, surrounded by exotic animals and rainforest foliage. The menu offers something for everyone, with delicious…
If you’re looking for a unique and entertaining dining experience while in Nashville, Tennessee, then be sure to check out the Opry Backstage Grill. This restaurant offers a backstage pass to the Grand Ole Opry show, giving guests an exclusive look at one of country music’s most iconic performances. Plus, the food is pretty amazing…
After seeing many signs on Highway 24 about the Sam Davis house and hearing about it at Cannonsburgh Village we had to check it out! The drive up to the house is beautiful! You enter through stone wall gates. Then drive up a tree lined driveway. (This is my dream driveway by the way!) Then…
On our way to Franklin to see the Carter House and Walk Downtown we saw this American Girl store and I think I got more excited than my girls! My oldest daughter saw this display and fell in love with Samantha! I was amazed being my first time in an American Girl store and everything…
While walking downtown Franklin we stopped and had lunch at The Mellow Mushroom. This is a pizzeria and it was worth the stop! There was a bit of the wait but they told us our buzzer worked for 3 stores down so we were able to wonder a bit while waiting. They had some very…
The Carter House was the center of the Battle of Franklin during the Civil War. There is a lot of history here and lots to see. I want to start by saying this was one of the least child friendly tours we were on. We just walked in the door and were told if our…
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience while in Nashville, The Old Spaghetti Factory is a must. This restaurant is housed in an old brick warehouse and has been charming guests since 1969. The menu features classic Italian dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, and chicken parmesan. And be sure to save room for…
If you’re ever in Nashville, Tennessee and are looking for a good time and some great food, then you need to check out the Claim Jumper restaurant. This place is definitely a blast, with its all-you-can-eat menu and killer margaritas. The food here is amazing too – definitely something everyone can enjoy. I would highly…
While out, we kept seeing signs on the interstate for Toot’s restaurant. So we decided to try it out for lunch. Most of the larger tables were high tops which kept us on our toes with 2 year old who is a daredevil LOL I want to point out I was a tad bit disappointed…
Getting on the road hubby and I decided we wanted to be more active. We talked and decided hiking and seeing the State and National Parks is one way we wanted to do this. So looking at what parks were near us. The Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park seems pretty cool, an old Native…
We saw many signs telling us about the Tennessee State Fair in Nashville since we got up to Tennessee. So we decided to check it out. There was a lot to do and while you can’t beat the 9/11 memorial they had, it was one of the smaller state fairs I have been too but…
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience while in Nashville, Tennessee, then head to the Aquarium Restaurant. Beautifully designed with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of Nashville’s Cumberland River and downtown skyline, this restaurant offers guests a truly unforgettable underwater dining experience. You’ll feel like you’re swimming among the fish as you dine…
Looking for something fun and adventurous to do in Nashville? Look no further than the Adventure Science Center! This awesome science center has tons of exhibits and activities that are perfect for both kids and adults. You can explore everything from outer space to the ocean floor, or get your hands dirty in one of…