Beautiful Places to Visit in Tennessee This Fall
Tennessee in the fall is an absolute showstopper—crisp mountain air, fiery foliage, and charming towns that feel straight out of a postcard. Whether you’re exploring misty trails in the Smokies, cruising scenic byways, or sipping cider in a historic square, there’s no shortage of cozy, colorful adventures to be had.
This list of the best places to visit in Tennessee during fall covers everything from hidden gems to iconic favorites. So grab your flannel and get ready to plan your dream autumn escape in the Volunteer State.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a fall favorite for its blend of vibrant foliage and fun attractions nestled in the Smoky Mountains. Ride the Ober Mountain Aerial Tramway for panoramic views of fiery reds and golds or hike the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for a quiet leaf-filled escape.
The town itself comes alive with seasonal decorations, craft fairs, and cozy mountain vibes. Whether you’re strolling the downtown strip or soaking in the scenery from a cabin, Gatlinburg is peak autumn charm.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Smokies offer some of the most breathtaking fall foliage in the Southeast. Late October brings waves of color to Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike trails like Alum Cave or Laurel Falls for crisp air and postcard-worthy views.
Wildlife sightings, historic cabins, and misty mountain mornings make autumn in the Smokies unforgettable. With free entry and endless scenic drives, it’s a fall destination every nature lover should experience at least once.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga blends outdoor beauty with artsy urban charm—and fall is the perfect time to enjoy both. Ride the Incline Railway up Lookout Mountain, explore Ruby Falls, or hike Sunset Rock for panoramic views of autumn color.
The Tennessee Riverwalk and downtown art scene offer crisp, leaf-lined strolls and seasonal events. With festivals, fall markets, and golden reflections on the river, Chattanooga is a vibrant city escape with a cozy, leaf-crunching twist.
Monteagle, Tennessee
Perched atop the Cumberland Plateau, Monteagle is a peaceful mountain town perfect for a cozy fall retreat. The area bursts with color in October, offering scenic drives, quiet hiking trails, and stunning views along the Fiery Gizzard Trail—one of the most celebrated hikes in the region.
Nearby Sewanee, home to the University of the South, adds collegiate charm with tree-lined paths and Gothic architecture framed by fall leaves. With rustic inns, local eateries, and small-town charm, Monteagle is a hidden autumn gem worth discovering.
Franklin, Tennessee
Just south of Nashville, Franklin is a charming town that shines in the fall with historic streets, colorful trees, and seasonal festivities. The Main Street area is perfect for cozy strolls, boutique shopping, and sipping cider from local cafés.
Don’t miss Pumpkinfest in late October, a family-friendly celebration with costumes, live music, and fall treats. Civil War sites like Carnton add a historic layer to your visit, while nearby Natchez Trace Parkway offers a scenic drive bursting with fall color.
Roan Mountain, Tennessee
Roan Mountain is a hidden gem for fall foliage lovers, known for its high-elevation vistas and rolling hills ablaze in red, orange, and gold. The Appalachian Trail runs right through the area, offering hiking opportunities with jaw-dropping views.
Roan Mountain State Park features riverside cabins, trout fishing, and quiet trails surrounded by vibrant leaves. Peak color usually hits mid to late October, making this a must-see spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts craving a crisp, peaceful fall escape.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Located at the tri-state corner of Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky, Cumberland Gap offers dramatic mountain views and a quiet retreat from the crowds. The Pinnacle Overlook is a must for panoramic fall foliage, while trails like Hensley Settlement take you through colorful forests and pioneer history.
Crisp fall air and fewer visitors make it ideal for a reflective autumn trip. Hike, explore caves, or simply take in the stunning views—Cumberland Gap delivers fall serenity with a side of history.
Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville blends city energy with natural beauty, especially in the fall when the city’s parks and greenways glow with color. Stroll through the University of Tennessee Gardens, paddle along the Tennessee River, or catch autumn views from Sharp’s Ridge.
Fall festivals, farmers markets, and SEC football bring vibrant energy downtown. Just a short drive from the Smokies, Knoxville offers the perfect mix of scenic nature and festive fun—ideal for a fall weekend full of color, culture, and crisp air.
Tellico Plains, Tennessee
Tellico Plains is a quiet mountain town and a gateway to the Cherohala Skyway—one of the most scenic fall drives in the Southeast. This 43-mile highway winds through colorful forests with sweeping overlooks that peak in mid to late October.
Stop for waterfalls, picnic areas, and hikes along Bald River Falls or Indian Boundary Lake. The town itself is small but charming, offering cozy diners, antique shops, and peaceful vibes. It’s a dream destination for a slow, scenic autumn drive.
Natchez Trace Parkway (Tennessee Portion)
This historic 444-mile route winds through Tennessee’s countryside with brilliant fall foliage and peaceful, low-traffic driving. The Tennessee stretch offers quiet overlooks, Civil War sites, and hiking trails like Garrison Creek Loop or the Jackson Falls Trail.
Travel past farms, wooded ridges, and open fields painted in amber tones. With no billboards or commercial stops, the Parkway is perfect for a relaxing road trip. Whether you’re leaf peeping or chasing history, it’s one of Tennessee’s most underrated fall experiences.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
One of Tennessee’s most visited parks, Fall Creek Falls dazzles in autumn with its namesake waterfall surrounded by colorful hardwoods. The park boasts over 50 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and crisp mountain air.
Paddle across the lake, explore swinging bridges, or stay in a cabin nestled among the trees. Photographers flock here for peak foliage and misty morning views. If you want a fall trip full of outdoor adventure and dramatic beauty, this park has it all.
From vibrant mountain drives to peaceful state parks and festive small towns, Tennessee offers something for every kind of fall traveler. Add these scenic spots to your itinerary and make this autumn one to remember.
