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6 Tennessee Romantic Getaways Perfect For Honeymoons

The great state of Tennessee has several destinations perfect for a romantic getaway. If you’re looking to stay in the US, Tennessee offers a lot for anyone looking to explore some picturesque mountain ranges or explore the nightlife in Nashville or Memphis. Tennessee also offers plenty of exciting cultures, natural beauty, and guaranteed adventure for honeymooners.  

Here are our 6 top recommended romantic getaways in Tennessee, plus some ideas for romantic activities and great accommodations.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a charming city nestled at the entrance to the Great Smoky National Park. It fills up with millions of visitors every year, even though the population of the town is a little under 4,000.

If you’re looking for a romantic spot to explore with small-town charisma, Gatlinburg is a place to consider. Between the soaring mountains, great hospitality, and cute local shops, honeymooners will never want to leave.

Romantic Things to do in Gatlinburg

Not only is Gatlinburg home to the Great Smoky Mountains but there are tons of activities for honeymooners to enjoy. Everything from a day at the spa getting pampered to exploring the mountains and landscapes that surround this little town.

Helicopter Ride Over the Smoky Mountains

Fly high above the beautiful Smokies in a helicopter with your loved one. The landscape sprawled beneath you is mesmerizing, and certainly forms a romantic backdrop for adventure. This is a memory that you will both fondly hold on to.

Visit A Day Spa

What could be more romantic than indulging in a couple’s massage at a luxurious day spa? With all the excitement that the Smoky Mountains have to offer, take some time to unwind together in blissful serenity. There are many different spas around Gatlinburg, each offering divine treatments directed at couples, so take your pick!

Rocky Top Wine Trail

Comprising five wineries, the Rocky Top Wine Trail offers 75 unique wines to tickle your tastebuds along the trail. Indulge in some fine wine with your significant other amidst the stunning Smoky Mountains and collect some souvenirs along the way. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply enjoy a glass every now and then, the Trail is a fantastic experience.

Gatlinburg SkyLift

Snuggle up close on a chairlift for a scenic view of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains as you ascend Crockett Mountain. At the top of the mountain, you can explore the SkyDeck and SkyBridge, both of which provide panoramic views of your surroundings from high in the sky. The SkyBridge even has glass panels in the middle so you can really see how high you are!

Space Needle by Starlight

The 407 feet tall Gatlinburg Space Needle reveals the entire city and mountainous surroundings from a 360-degree observation deck. For an ultra-special visit, take a trip to the top after sundown, and see the city lights shining below you as the stars twinkle overhead.

Cycle in Cades Cove

A mountainous landscape dotted with picturesque cabins makes Cades Cove one of the most romantic places in the Smoky Mountains. Rent a bike from the visitor center and embark on a beautiful ride with your loved one through the luscious scenery.

The Cades Cove is also accessible by car, but there’s something truly romantic about a bicycle ride through the majestic landscape.

Ice Skating at Ober Gatlinburg

Skate around the ice rink hand-in-hand with your partner at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park. The rink is open year-round and makes a fun activity for couples, as well as the romantic flair of holding hands as you navigate the ice together. You’ll also have breathtaking views over the surroundings from Ober Gatlinburg.

Clingmans Dome

Take a short, scenic drive to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smoky Mountain range, and watch the sunset beyond the mountains. Nestle together for some quiet time with your partner and watch the stars come out in the beautiful night sky, and marvel at the Milky Way above you.

Romantic Accommodations in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg famously houses comfortable cabins that offer the height of romance to any couple. Recline in a hot tub together with a glass of bubbly, and share a blanket in front of a roaring fire on cooler evenings. 

Live in a fairy tale in one of Gatlinburg’s many homey cabins. Here are some of our favorites in that area.

Black Bear Inn & Suites

This beautiful property is to provide honeymooners who travel in Gatlinburg with relaxation and amenities. The hotel strives to provide its guests with an unforgettable Gatlinburg experience. Their name is inspired by Gatlinburg’s most iconic permanent resident, the black bear. Being only steps away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park means that honeymooners may have the chance to see one, so keep an eye out!

Elk Springs Resort

Bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and nestled among many artisans, woodcarvers, cafes, and restaurants in Gatlinburg’s historic Arts & Crafts Community, Elk Springs Resort is a 68-acre luxury cabin resort.

The details that make a stay pleasantly memorable, like their bedding, gathering areas, deck space, and cooking areas—are perfect for optimum relaxation and privacy. Make sure to relax in the saunas, Jacuzzis, and hot tubs. And, there’s even a secluded luxury rental located on a private trout fishing pond for the ultimate romantic getaway.

Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is the ideal place for any romantic getaway, drawing millions of visitors each year while still maintaining a small-town feel with secluded cabins to enjoy. Whether on a honeymoon, anniversary or just enjoying some time together there are plenty of activities to ensure your honeymoon is full of love and adventure.

Romantic Things To Do In Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is another Smoky Mountains town offering amazing accommodations and activities for honeymooners looking for fun and coziness. There are so many fun things to do during your trip together and here are just a few quick suggestions.

Great Smoky Mountain Wheel 

The classic epitome of romance: cuddling up with your significant other on an old-time Ferris wheel. Head to The Island in Pigeon Forge to take a ride on the large wheel, which provides a panoramic view of the stunning landscape around you. After your trip on the wheel, take a visit to the fountain show for a multi-sensory experience.

 Dollywood

In town, you can have a fun day at the amusement park, Dollywood. There are dozens of rides and attractions to keep you excited all day. If you’re looking for some fun off the roller coasters, then go to one of the famous dinner shows.

Looking for a more relaxing day? Consider booking a spot at the spa and relaxing together. Get in a little pampering before jumping back into the amusement park fun.

Enjoy the Outdoors

You can go horseback riding, hiking, or biking if you’re looking to venture outside of your comfort zone and explore the beauty of the Smokies. A lot of this can be paired with a day inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so it’s a great way to adventure while experiencing the Pigeon Forge area.

Go Whitewater River Rafting

The Smoky Mountain Outdoors’ Upper Pigeon River Trip has been named one of the top ten experiences in the United States. If you’re looking for an adventurous activity, pile into a raft with your honey and navigate the Pigeon River gorge as professional instructors assist and instruct you.

Romantic Accommodations in Pigeon Forge

The best accommodations for a romantic getaway are the cabins in the area. Just like the accommodations in Gatlinburg, staying in a romantic cabin gives you exceptional privacy to enjoy the intimacy of your partner and the freedom to organize yourself. 

Outside of cabins, there are resort and villa options that give you a sense of luxury while nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains.  Here are a few accommodation options in Pigeon for consideration with amenities you love, amazing views, and hot tubs to relax in. Many have mountain views and hot tubs.

Appleview River Resort

Easily accessible from Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the resort is located close to shopping, dining, and entertainment and is also close to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Their luxury condos and villas will accommodate honeymooners nicely while the fireplaces, private balconies, mountain and river views, and jacuzzi tubs will make sure you relax.

The resort property also offers a riverwalk with gas lanterns, an outdoor pool, a kiddie pool and hot tub, fishing on the Little Pigeon River, a fitness center, and a game room, all in a secluded atmosphere.

Wyndham Smoky Mountain

The romantic, panoramic views surrounding this property make it a must-see for honeymooners. Located in Sevierville and at the heart of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, you’ll enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, and horseback riding. With Pigeon Forge less than five miles away, honeymooners will have plenty of access to not only seclusion but also activity and entertainment.

Nashville

Nashville is often thought of as a place to throw bachelor parties, but honeymooners can have a blast here too. The city thrives with a creative vibe and entrepreneurial spirit. With street art, creative culture, wonderful food, and plenty of adventure, honeymooners won’t ever want to leave.

Romantic Things to do in Nashville

While one of the most iconic things about Nashville is the country music scene, there are dozens of other options for romantic and exciting activities. Here are a few options to consider as you plan your honeymoon trip to Nashville.

Visit Broadway

Music is around every turn in Nashville, which is why it’s named “Music City”. If you go explore Broadway, you’ll find shopping and plenty of restaurants The Honky Tonk district is home to infamous places like Legends Corner, and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, two places which have both been called home by many famous musicians.  

Catch a Concert

As mentioned before, Nashville is Music City- and Broadway isn’t the only place to catch a show. There are plenty of concerts going on throughout the city at all times. So google some showtimes and make a plan to see your favorite artist if they’re in town.

Hang in Centennial Park

This beautiful park nestled within the city limits is not only home to the Parthenon but is a great place for a romantic walk. The pond, trails, and all the shops and restaurants are close by making sure that honeymooners can grab a drink or snack and head to the park to enjoy it.

Explore East Nashville

East Nashville is one of the quickest up-and-coming parts of the city and is most affectionately known by its residents as “East Nasty”. The quirky vibe, delicious food, and fun nightlife scene make it a great spot for honeymooners to explore if they’re looking for something fun and different.

The Five Points area, where five streets intersect is well known for its street art, nice bars, and trendy dining while Fatherland Street is a place to good for unique shopping. In Shelby Park, the Greenway is a tree-lined path winding along the Cumberland River that honeymooners will love to stroll down.

Romantic Nashville Accommodations

Unlike some other areas in Tennessee, Nashville offers some funkier options. There are luxury downtown options as well as more historic options located a short distance from the nightlife and activity of downtown.

Fairlane Hotel

Centrally located in downtown Nashville, yet a few blocks removed from Broadway, Fairlane Hotel brings a sexy mid-century modern vibe to the city.

Instead of turning their rooftop into another gathering for groups and parties, they opted to create two secluded penthouse rooms, which can be booked as one or together. Penthouse West, though, is the ideal accommodation for couples. Decked to the nines with the swag of the 70s, the bright, spacious room features an oversized bathroom with a separate deep soak tub and a King bed with mirrored ceilings.

The exterior wraparound terrace features sunset views, loungers, and views of murals and the arts district. There’s so much more to do in Nashville other than Broadway, with top-notch dining, outdoor activities, and more, it’s the perfect honeymoon destination.

The Omni

This luxury hotel is perfect for honeymooners. Finding an ideal luxury hotel in Nashville does not have to be difficult. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, room service, a concierge, a pool, and breakfast. The onsite restaurant and bar have great reviews and are only a short walk down to popular spots like the Whiskey Kitchen, The Row Kitchen & Pub, or 3rd and Lindsley Bar and Grill and Music Row.

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel

 Loews Vanderbilt Hotel is located in the West End neighborhood of Nashville right across from historic Vanderbilt University and central to all the best places to explore. The luxury hotel sets the stage for an authentic Nashville experience, with several well-appointed suites to choose from.

As part of the package, couples can check out the southern-inspired fare at Mason’s or Mason Bar before heading out to explore. Music, good eats, and craft drinks are the highlights that shine in this city, which is also one of the fastest-growing locations in the country.

NASHVILLE, TN – FEBRUARY 25, 2015: Loews Vanderbilt Hotel Nashville. Credit: Photographs by Bruce Buck.

Their “It’s a Love Story” honeymoon package includes dinner for two ($60 value) from a special room service menu once per stay. (Guests may also use this credit for dinner in Mason Bar or Mason’s Restaurant), two glasses of sparkling wine once per stay, one complimentary in-room movie per stay, complimentary valet parking nightly, and complimentary 1 pm check-out.

The Hutton Hotel

Hutton Hotel is an iconic 4-star hotel located in the city center, steps away from the famous Music Row. It features a bar with live music and entertainment, a restaurant, creative spaces for musicians, a spa, and a business center.

The hotel has 253 rooms and suites, and they all come with a TV, work desk, mini bar, and coffee maker. From $170 per night, this hotel is a popular option for music lovers.

They also offer the Hutton Suite. The three-bedroom, 4,666 square foot double-level Hutton Suite comes with direct access to the onsite music venue plus a personal songwriting studio – it is the most VIP suite available in the city for lovers who love music. Suite rates start at 3,000.

The room comes completely soundproof with direct access to the viewing platform and the entertainment performing in the venue itself, a full kitchen, living areas, floor-to-ceiling windows with east-facing views, and elegant European-style showers with full soaking tubs, a signature Hutton PA (personal assistant), an on-request spa services and access to a Tesla house car to be used at the guest’s leisure. If you’re a couple on their honeymoon who loves music, this sounds perfect.

Memphis

If you’re looking for a more casual music scene, then Memphis might be the place for you. Memphis has a vibe similar to Nashville, but it’s a little slower paced. Plus, Memphis boasts a lot of cool historical elements, too.

Honeymooners will love Memphis because the city is the perfect combination of adventure, culture, beauty, and relaxation.

Romantic Things to do in Memphis

Romance is easy to find in Memphis. You can spend the day strolling the streets of the city, book a day of pampering at the spa, or dive into the Elvis experience at Graceland. You’ll love spending your honeymoon here.

Tour Graceland

To celebrate your honeymoon, stop off at Elvis’s home Graceland.  Along with Elvis’s iconic mansion, you can see his cars at the Presley Automobile Museum, including his famous pink Cadillac. You can tour his private airplanes too.

Hit the September Nail Salon

This is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate with side-by-side pedicures while you enjoy seasonal cocktails, treats, and stellar service. You can also take advantage of the all-natural shower and body product line, September Body, by taking a spa box back to your hotel with you for an extra special evening.

You can customize your own box and enjoy the “his love” and “her love” scents in a variety of products, including sugar scrubs, oils, bath bombs, and body butter.

Stroll the Mississippi

Take a sunset walk down the river to see beautiful panoramic views of the Memphis Skyline and the new light displays on the Hernando de Soto Bridge.

Grab a Bite

Erling Jensen, a contemporary French restaurant is located in East Memphis in a quiet, secluded spot which is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner for honeymooners. Whether you order the red snapper, diver scallops, rack of lamb, or buffalo tenderloin with lobster béarnaise, your taste buds will be in heaven

Romantic Hotels Memphis

There are plenty of accommodations in Memphis, but one really tops the list. If you’re looking for something trendy and close to downtown, then this might be the one for you.

Hu Hotel

The Hu Hotel, a stylish, trendy building offers not only excellent accommodations, but also gives you access to the heart of downtown Memphis, houses a retro cafe, and modern diner, and has beautiful rooftop views of the city.

Dinner at the Hu Hotel restaurant has wonderful reviews and is guaranteed to leave you filled up with wonderful memories of your first adventure as a married couple.

Chattanooga

Named one of the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2018 and one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Best in the U.S. travel destinations for 2018, Chattanooga is making a name for itself as an innovative, flavorful, and diverse Southern city.

There’s always something to do in Chattanooga – whether you want to take in a play or concert, visit an amazing museum, be a part of the nightlife, enjoy the outdoors or experience a piece of history and is the perfect place for honeymooners.

Romantic Things to do in Chattanooga

If you’re looking for something romantic in Chattanooga, you won’t be disappointed! You can spend time exploring the town and its history or get outside your comfort zone and experience some of the outdoor activities Chattanooga has to offer.

Hang Glide over Lookout Mountain

Honeymooners to Chattanooga have several ways to explore the city – including by air. Lookout Mountain Hang Gliding, one of the U.S.’s largest and oldest hang-gliding schools, trains “pilots” on how to navigate Chattanooga’s skyway in a glider. No prior experience is necessary to fly with your honey

Whitewater Rafting on the Ocoee River

Located only an hour away from downtown Chattanooga is the Ocoee River, a beautiful natural escape for experienced and non-experienced paddlers. In addition to its incredible rapids and surrounding scenery, the Ocoee River is also famous for having hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics. This activity is great for honeymooners who want a little adventure.

Go see Some Rare, Vintage Guitars

Songbirds Guitar Museum has the world’s largest private collection. The exhibits rotate, so there is a good chance there’s something new to see and experience. Stop by and take a look at everything this museum has to offer.

Plus, you can find great concerts at the Songbirds Guitar Museum. It’s a small, intimate venue that plays host to some of the most up-and-coming bands in the area. Make sure to take a look at the concert schedule when you visit Chattanooga.

Explore the North Shore

Chattanooga’s southern charm is seen clearly when strolling through the popular Northshore neighborhood, just north of the Tennessee River. This quaint neighborhood is home to an eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, antique shops, and well-kept walking trails. You can take a stroll and find yourself at the antique – but fully restored – carousel in the middle of Coolidge Park.

Romantic Chattanooga Accommodations

Chattanooga has some very interesting hotels and places to stay. Maybe you want to experience some of the history of Chattanooga without being too far away from the adventures of the great outdoors. Or maybe you want to stay in the great outdoors. Chattanooga has the place for you.

The Read House

Perfect for couples seeking an authentic, outdoors honeymoon, The Read House in Chattanooga is the perfect accommodation. Ideally located in downtown Chattanooga, near restaurants, bars, and other fun activities, yet a short drive from caves, waterfalls, hiking, biking, and zip-lining, the hotel offers the best of both worlds with luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and breathtaking design.

The historic property dates back to the 1800s and has a storied past, but don’t let history fool you – The Read House recently underwent $28 million in renovations and features spacious rooms, plush bedding, and one of the best restaurants in the city – Bridgeman’s Chophouse. It also happens to be quite romantic and would make for a perfect honeymoon meal.

Treetop Hideaways

This property is one of the most unique and original places to stay: a treehouse. Choosing from either the Luna Loft Treehouse or the Elements Treehouse, guests are sure to enjoy a rustic, gorgeous stay in the wilderness at Treetop Hideaways.

As if it needed to get any cooler, each part of the Luna Loft Treehouse has a story, like the reclaimed 1860s barn wood, the immense 16-foot-tall windows from an old warehouse, the penny floor, and the copper-lined whiskey barrel shower in the bathroom. While the Elements Treehouse offers a more luxurious campout, complete with heated floors, a rainfall shower, and even Wi-Fi.

Edwin Hotel

Located close to the historic Walnut Street Bridge, The Edwin is Chattanooga’s newest luxury boutique hotel. The, 90 rooms, an AMA Spa, and 1,650 square feet of meeting space is a new rarity in Chatanooga that honeymooners would have fun exploring. Located on the riverfront in downtown Chattanooga, The Edwin offers gorgeous views from rooms starting at $250 per night.

The Moxy

This millennial-focused four-story property will have the social feel of a hostel with the luxury of a hotel that will make honeymooners never want to leave. The four-story property includes 102 stylish rooms, free Wi-Fi, vibrant communal spaces, modern amenities, and a bar. Moxy Hotels is Marriott International’s new millennial-focused brand that debuted in September 2014 with the opening of the Moxy Milan Italy.

Knoxville

Knoxville is big-city fun with a small-town mentality. It’s where mountains meet music, art meets adventure and culture meets cuisine. It’s got something for everybody — and it’s what binds the locals to the tourists. So whether you’re from the outskirts of town or traveled thousands of miles to get here, you’ll feel right at home.

Romantic Things to do in Knoxville

Do you want to experience the history of Knoxville? Maybe you’re most interested in getting outdoors and active. Or maybe you’re a downtown shopping kind of vacationer. The best news is Knoxville has it all and more.

Baker’s Creek Preserve

Located just 3 miles from downtown Knoxville, Baker Creek Preserve is a popular outdoor destination for adventurers. The area has a unique set of attractions that appeal to novice explorers including convenient parking, a kid’s adventure play area with natural and interactive features, a kid’s bicycle pump track and loop, and easy multi-use trails, including one that connects to a middle school. 

See Historic Knoxville Homes

The history of Knoxville is a vivid tale of the trials and triumphs. The backstory takes you from a rough frontier settlement to the grand state capital to the picturesque city you see today—a wild and often surprising tale marvelously told by the city’s most historic homes.

From log cabins to frame houses to stately stone mansions, Knoxville landmarks invite you to explore the past times and events that shaped the town. The six historic homes are Blount Mansion, the Mabry-Hazen House Museum, Marble Springs, Crescent Bend, James White’s Fort, and Ramsey House.

Visit Market Square

Knoxville’s Market Square is home to an eclectic blend of culinary delights, fun stories and features two water fountains. Market Square is adjacent to the scenic Krutch Park. And whether you want to see the Square Farmers Market, or bring your sweetheart downtown for a romantic dinner and evening at the theatre, you’ll find something romantic to do. Market Square District is alive with music, performers, niche shops, and gallery walks on the First Friday of every month.

Romantic Knoxville Accommodations

There are many choices for places to stay in Knoxville. Many of these accommodations are luxurious and trendy, so you won’t be disappointed.

The Tennessean Hotel

This is Knoxville’s only AAA Four Diamond Award hotel. The 82-room personal luxury hotel just steps from the city’s iconic Market Square features beautiful mountain views and is the first of its kind in the area. The Drawing Room at The Tennessean Hotel exudes elegance and elevates service standards.

Menus rotate with the seasons, giving guests the ability to experience the freshest ingredients that East Tennessee has to offer while the hotel’s elite staff makes sure that honeymooners are secluded and comfortable.  

The Oliver Hotel

This trendsetting luxury retreat is a Knoxville must. The Oliver Hotel on Knoxville’s Market Square rewards urban explorers with settings made to inspire them. Here, history and hospitality join up. The tall, soaring ceilings, sensational seasonal cuisine, and cherished Southern traditions will make honeymooners feel like they’re in a different world. If you want to be pampered, head to The Oliver Hotel.

When to Visit Tennessee

The best time to visit Tennessee is definitely in the fall. If you’re looking to spend some time in the Smoky Mountains, temperatures are cooler, and with it comes fall’s changing colors that you’ll find scattered throughout the mountainside. Although the days may still be warm, they’re not nearly as humid as they are in the summer and nights are cool.

In September, expect the weather to range between 60 and 80 degrees. In December, the temperature typically stays between 30 to 50. Warm sweaters, cool days, and hot coffee in Tennessee sound like the perfect honeymoon combination.

Tennessee Travel Planning Tips

Picking the destination is only part of the planning. As you start the planning process, keep these tips in mind. It’ll help make the decision making process easier and point you to the right destination.

  • If you go to Memphis grab some barbecue because they have some of the best in the world and you’ll immediately be converted. Memphis-style bbq is slow-cooked and comes either “wet” or “dry”.
  • Where ever you go, expect live music. Although most cite Nashville as the birthplace of Country music, it was actually born out of Bristol, Tennessee. Regardless of which part of the state you’re in, go find some live music. In Nashville, you can find country music and some folksy acoustic stuff too, while in Memphis, people love to sing the blues. If you make it down to Bristol, make sure to hit one of their awesome music festivals like Rhythm and Roots.
  • Not everyone will greet you from on top of a horse, but they will be friendly. Yes, Tennessee is technically in the American South. And no, not everyone rides a horse. Especially in the larger cities. But one thing that is true of people across the state is that they’ll meet you with warmth and kindness. Southern hospitality isn’t lost on the residents of Tennessee, so get ready to say howdy on your honeymoon.

If you’re looking to honeymoon in the continental U.S.Tennessee might be the destination for you. Tennessee has tons of different destinations for a great honeymoon, and each one has different ways to keep the romance going.