Article Overview: Historic Sites In Tennessee
Historic Sites In Tennessee. More Than Just Parks has 15 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.
I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!
I’m going to give you my list of the 15 Historic Sites In Tennessee that you’ll want to see.
To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as opposed to national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!
If you are planning a trip to Tennessee then you might want to pick up a copy of Tennessee Bucket List Adventure Guide & Memory Journal: Travel & Explore 50 Must See Destinations by Akeem Press.
Without further ado, let’s dive in!
15 Top Historic Sites In Tennessee
15. Sun Record Company
Historic Sun Studio is a recording studio located in Memphis, Tennessee. It was opened by rock pioneer Sam Phillips on January 3, 1950, and originally called Memphis Recording Service.
The studio is known for being the birthplace of rock and roll, as the first rock-and-roll single, Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats’ “Rocket 88” was recorded there in 1951.
The studio also recorded a variety of blues, R&B and country music artists in the early 1950s, including Howlin’ Wolf, Junior Parker, B.B. King, James Cotton, Rufus Thomas and Rosco Gordon.
In the latter 1950s, many rock-and-roll, country music, and rockabilly artists, including Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison, Charlie Feathers, Jerry Lee Lewis, recorded at the studio for the Sun Records label.
Phillips Recording
In 1959, Sam Phillips opened a larger studio, Phillips Recording, to replace the older facility and in 1969, he sold the label to Shelby Singleton. The building remained inactive until 1985, when the Class of ’55 recording sessions with Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash took place.
The studio was reopened as a tourist attraction in 1987 and has attracted many notable artists including U2, who recorded tracks for Rattle and Hum there.
Sun Studio is a significant landmark in the history of music, particularly rock and roll, and continues to be a popular tourist destination and recording studio today.
14. James K. Polk House
James K. Polk was the 11th President of the United States, serving from 1845 to 1849. He was a member of the Democratic Party.
His presidency was marked by the Mexican-American War, the annexation of Texas, and the negotiation of the Oregon Treaty with Great Britain.
The James K. Polk House is a historic residence located in Columbia, Tennessee, United States.
It was the only home of James K. Polk and his wife Sarah Childress Polk. The house was built in 1816 and served as the Polks’ primary residence until their move to the White House in 1845.
It’s a two-story brick structure in the Federal style, with a central hallway and four rooms on each floor. The house is now open to the public as a museum and it has been preserved as a National Historic Landmark, allowing visitors to experience the life and times of James K. Polk and his family.
The house contains many of the Polks’ original furnishings and personal items, as well as exhibits about their lives and the political and social issues of the day.
13. Beale Street Historic District
Historic Beale Street is a street located in Memphis, Tennessee. It is known for its role in the development of blues and jazz music, as well as its association with the city’s African American community.
Beale Street Historic District is a place where you can find the rich history of Memphis music. This district is home to many of the city’s most famous music venues, such as the Orpheum Theatre, the New Daisy Theatre, and the Blues Hall of Fame.
The street is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It also includes the Handy Park, a small park named after W.C Handy, known as the “Father of the Blues.”
The district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966 and it has been designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1982.
The Beale Street Historic District is now a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to experience the street’s vibrant music scene and cultural heritage.
12. The Hermitage
The Hermitage was the plantation home of Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, from 1804 until his death in 1845.
It is a two-story Greek Revival, brick mansion that was completed in 1819. Jackson was the first chief executive elected from west of the Allegheny Mountains, the first from other than Virginia or Massachusetts, and the first non-aristocrat.
He was a wealthy, slave-holding planter who served in both Houses of Congress but saw himself and was seen by others as representing the common man. He expanded the powers of the office of president and redefined them.
Jackson purchased the property in 1804 and lived there with his wife Rachel until he was called to active service in 1813.
He returned a national hero after the Battle of New Orleans in the War of 1812 and built the central portion of the present mansion between 1818 and 1819.
Things To See At The Hermitage
Some of the things to see at the Hermitage include:
- The mansion: Visitors can tour the historic mansion, which was originally built in the late 18th century and is one of the best-preserved examples of antebellum architecture in the South.
- Exhibits on Andrew Jackson’s life and legacy: Visitors can learn about the life and legacy of Andrew Jackson through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays, including his presidency and his role as a military hero.
- The grounds and gardens: The Hermitage is set on 1,120 acres of lush, rolling farmland, and visitors can explore the gardens and grounds, which include a formal garden, a vegetable garden, and a cemetery.
- The First Hermitage Church: Visitors can tour the First Hermitage Church, a historic building located on the grounds of the Hermitage, which was used by the Jackson family and their slaves for religious services.
- The slave cabin exhibit: Visitors can learn about the lives of the slaves who lived and worked at the Hermitage through a series of exhibits and interactive displays located in the restored slave cabins.
11. Graceland
Elvis Presley was an American singer, musician, and actor. Presley is often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll” and is considered one of the most influential figures in popular music.
He began his career in the mid-1950s, and his first single, “Heartbreak Hotel,” topped the charts in 1956. He went on to release many hit songs throughout his career, including “Jailhouse Rock,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “All Shook Up,” and many others.
Presley also appeared in several films and television shows, and was known for his distinctive voice, energetic performances, and unique style.
He died on August 16, 1977, at the age of 42. Despite his passing, his legacy continues to live on through his music and the many tribute performances and exhibitions.
Things To See At Graceland
Graceland is a mansion located in Memphis, Tennessee, that was once owned by singer Elvis Presley.
The 13.8-acre estate is where Presley is buried, along with his parents, paternal grandmother, grandson, and daughter. The property also includes a memorial to Presley’s stillborn twin brother.
At Graceland, you can see:
- The mansion, including Presley’s personal quarters and decor
- The Trophy Building with Presley’s awards, gold records and jumpsuits
- The Racquetball Building with Presley’s private jets
- The Meditation Garden with Presley’s grave and family members’ graves
- The Elvis Presley Automobile Museum with Presley’s cars
- Various exhibits and displays showcasing Presley’s life and career.
Top 10 Historic Sites In Tennessee
10. Andrew Johnson National Historic Site
The Andrew Johnson National Historic Site is a National Historic Site located in Greeneville, Tennessee, that is maintained by the National Park Service.
The site was established to honor Andrew Johnson, the 17th President of the United States. He became president after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.
The site includes two properties associated with Johnson: the Andrew Johnson Homestead, where he lived as a tailor before his political career, and the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery, where he and his family are buried.
Visitors to the site can tour the homestead, which has been restored to its appearance during Johnson’s presidency, and learn about his life and legacy through exhibits and ranger-led programs.
The Andrew Johnson National Cemetery is also open to visitors.
CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Alabama
9. Stones River National Battlefield
Stones River National Battlefield is a National Battlefield located near Murfreesboro, Tennessee, that preserves the site of the Battle of Stones River, which was fought during the American Civil War from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863.
The battle resulted in a Union victory, and it is considered one of the key battles in the Western Theater of the war.
The park includes more than 1,700 acres of land, with several monuments, markers, and historical structures that commemorate the battle and the soldiers who fought there.
Visitors to the park can take a self-guided driving tour of the battlefield, visit the visitors center and museum, and hike on several trails that take you through the historic sites.
The park also offers ranger-led tours, living history programs, and other educational activities.
CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America
8. Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile long parkway that runs through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, in the southeastern United States.
It follows the historic Natchez Trace, a path that was used by American Indians, European settlers, and traders for thousands of years. The parkway is operated by the National Park Service and provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural history of the region.
The parkway offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking.
There are also several campgrounds and picnic areas located along the route. Along the way, visitors can also experience the beauty of the southern landscape, including hardwood forests, wetlands, and prairies, as well as a wide variety of wildlife.
The Parkway Features Several Historic Sites
The parkway also features several historic sites, such as the Sunken Trace, a section of the original trail that has been preserved and is visible from the parkway; the Meriwether Lewis Monument, which marks the spot where the explorer died; and the Emerald Mound, which is the second largest ceremonial mound in the United States.
The Natchez Trace Parkway also offers visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region, including the history of the Natchez and Chickasaw tribes, the American Revolutionary War, and the Civil War.
The parkway also provides a variety of interpretive programs and guided tours to help visitors learn more about the history and culture of the region.
CHECK OUT: 15 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In Mississippi
7. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is a protected area in the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States. It features:
- A historic pass through the mountains called the Cumberland Gap, used by Native Americans, pioneers, and Civil War soldiers.
- Scenic hiking trails with views of the surrounding countryside.
- Historical landmarks, including frontier forts and Civil War earthworks.
- Unique geological formations and diverse wildlife.
- Cultural resources showcasing the region’s Native American, pioneer, and industrial history.
CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In North Carolina
6. Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail
The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail is a commemorative trail that follows the route of the forced relocation of Native American tribes in the southeastern United States in the 1830s.
The trail follows the routes taken by the Cherokee, Creek, Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Seminole nations, who were forcibly removed from their ancestral lands and forced to march to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) in a process known as the Indian Removal.
The forced relocation was a result of the Indian Removal Act of 1830, which authorized the President to negotiate treaties to exchange Indian land in the eastern states for lands west of the Mississippi River.
The journey was filled with hardship, suffering, and death, and an estimated 4,000 Cherokees died on the trail. The trail was officially established as a National Historic Trail in 1987.
CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In South Carolina
Top 5 Historic Sites In Tennessee
5. Manhattan Project National Historical Park
During World War II, the United States government created the Manhattan Project, a top-secret research program to develop the atomic bomb.
Oak Ridge, Tennessee was selected as one of the main sites for the project because of its location in the rolling hills and narrow valleys of East Tennessee. The city was not on any maps and was known as the “Secret City”.
Oak Ridge played a crucial role in the Manhattan Project and was the location of several massive facilities that employed thousands of workers. These facilities were focused on enriching uranium for use in the atomic bomb. The city was also the headquarters for the project after it was relocated from New York City.
After the war, Oak Ridge continued to play a significant role in the development of nuclear technology and energy. Today, Oak Ridge is home to several museums that commemorate the city’s history and the role it played in the Manhattan Project.
Visitors can visit the American Museum of Science and Energy, the K-25 History Museum, The Oak Ridge History Museum, and the Oak Ridge Children’s Museum. These museums offer a unique glimpse into the history of Oak Ridge, the Manhattan Project, and the development of atomic energy.
CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)
4. Fort Donelson National Battlefield
Fort Donelson National Battlefield is a U.S. National Battlefield located in Tennessee, that commemorates the Battle of Fort Donelson which occurred in February 1862 during the American Civil War.
The battle was fought between the Union army, led by Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant, and the Confederate army, led by Brigadier General Simon Bolivar Buckner.
The Union army’s objective was to capture Fort Donelson, a Confederate fort on the Cumberland River, which controlled the waterways in the region.
On February 12, 1862, Union forces launched a surprise attack on the fort and after a two-day siege, the Confederate garrison surrendered on February 16, 1862. With the fall of Fort Donelson, the Union army gained control of the Cumberland River and the Confederate army was forced to retreat further south.
One Of The First Union Victories
The battle was significant because it was one of the first Union victories of the war and it allowed the Union army to gain control of much of Tennessee and Kentucky. It also gave Ulysses S. Grant, the Union commander, the nickname “Unconditional Surrender” Grant.
Fort Donelson National Battlefield was established in 1928 and it preserves the sites of the battle and the Fort Donelson National Cemetery which holds the remains of Union soldiers who died during the battle.
The site is open to visitors and offers a variety of interpretive programs and guided tours to help visitors understand the history of the battle and its significance in the Civil War.
CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America
3. Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail is a commemorative trail that follows the routes taken by patriot militia during the American Revolutionary War.
The trail stretches from the present-day states of Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina. The trail commemorates the journey of the Overmountain Men, a group of patriot militia who marched over the Appalachian Mountains to engage in the Battle of Kings Mountain.
The Battle of Kings Mountain was fought on October 7, 1780, between the patriot militia and a detachment of the British army led by Major Patrick Ferguson. The battle was a turning point in the southern campaign of the Revolutionary War, as the Patriots were able to defeat a larger and better-trained British force. The Overmountain Men played a crucial role in the victory, as their surprise attack on the British flank turned the tide of the battle.
The Trail Was Established In 1980
The trail was established in 1980 and it is approximately 330 miles long. It is a multi-use trail, open to hikers, horseback riders, and bicyclists, and includes a variety of historical and cultural sites, such as museums, visitor centers, and historic homes, that help visitors understand the history of the trail and the Battle of Kings Mountain.
The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail is part of the National Trails System, and it is administered by the National Park Service.
The trail is open to the public, and visitors can follow the trail by using a detailed brochure and map, which is available at various visitor centers and park offices.
CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Revolutionary War Sites In America
2. Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is a U.S. National Military Park located in Georgia and Tennessee that commemorates the two major battles fought in the area during the American Civil War: the Battle of Chickamauga and the Battle of Chattanooga.
The Battle of Chickamauga was fought on September 19-20, 1863, and it was one of the largest battles fought in the western theater of the Civil War. The Confederate army, led by General Braxton Bragg, defeated the Union army, led by General William Rosecrans, and forced them to retreat to Chattanooga. This battle was the most significant Confederate victory in the western theater and opened the door for the Confederate army to move into Tennessee.
The Battle of Chattanooga was fought on November 23-25, 1863. Union forces, led by General Ulysses S. Grant, successfully drove the Confederate army out of Chattanooga, breaking the Confederate hold on the city and opening the door for the Union army to invade Georgia.
The park was created in 1890 and it includes the battlefields, monuments, and historical markers that commemorate the two battles. Visitors can tour the park on a self-guided driving tour, take a guided tour, or hike one of the many trails that wind through the park.
The park also includes the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center and the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center which provides information and exhibits about the history of the battles and the park.
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park is part of the National Park Service, and it is an important historical site that helps visitors understand the significance of the two battles and their impact on the Civil War.
1. Shiloh National Military Park
Historic Shiloh National Military Park is a U.S. National Military Park located in Tennessee that commemorates the Battle of Shiloh, which was fought on April 6-7, 1862, during the American Civil War.
The battle was fought between the Union army, led by General Ulysses S. Grant, and the Confederate army, led by General Albert Sidney Johnston.
The battle began on April 6, 1862, when Confederate forces launched a surprise attack on the Union army’s camps at Shiloh. The Union army was caught off guard and was pushed back for several miles, but managed to regroup and counterattack on April 7.
After a fierce and bloody battle, the Confederate army was forced to retreat, and the Union army emerged victorious.
One Of The First Major Battles Of The Civil War
The battle was significant because it was one of the first major battles of the Civil War fought in the western theater and it resulted in a Union victory. The battle was also significant because it was one of the bloodiest battles of the war, with over 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing.
Shiloh National Military Park was established in 1894 and it preserves the sites of the battle, including the Shiloh National Cemetery which holds the remains of soldiers who died during the battle. The park is open to visitors and it offers a variety of interpretive programs and guided tours to help visitors understand the history of the battle and its significance in the Civil War.
Shiloh National Military Park is part of the National Park Service and it is an important historical site that helps visitors understand the history of the battle and its impact on the Civil War.
To Learn More About Shiloh
So many books have been written about the Civil War and the various battles that took place. Of course, the big three authors when it comes to war are, in my humble opinion, Bruce Catton, Shelby Foote and James M. McPherson.
What these three have written are the best collections of books encompassing the war as a whole.
You can’t go wrong with any of these authors. My personal favorite is Shelby Foote. I have read his fabulous three volume history of the Civil War–twice!
Read About The Battle Of Shiloh
When it comes to the Battle of Shiloh, however, I’m going to recommend three books none of which have been written by the three men mentioned above (please forgive me). I previously recommended one of these and it’s still the best of the bunch in my opinion, but I’m going to recommend it again along with two others.
To gain an understanding of this battle, its strategic importance, and how it influenced the outcome of the war, I recommend:
- Shiloh and the Western Campaign of 1862, by O. Edward Cunningham
- Shiloh, Bloody Shiloh by Wiley Sword
- Shiloh: The Battle That Changed the Civil War by Larry J. Daniel.
List Of Historic Sites In Tennessee
- Shiloh National Military Park
- Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
- Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
- Fort Donelson National Battlefield
- Manhattan Project National Historical Park
- Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail
- Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
- Natchez Trace Parkway
- Stones River National Battlefield
- Andrew Johnson National Historic Site
- Graceland
- The Hermitage
- Beale Street Historic District
- James K. Polk House
- Sun Record Company
About The People Behind More Than Just Parks
You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. My sons have spent their entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.
As for me, I’m a retired lifelong educator and a proud dad of these two wonderful guys who are hopelessly obsessed with the national parks. I taught history for over a quarter of a century. Now I enjoy researching and writing articles for More Than Just Parks. I’m always on the hunt for topics where nature and history intersect so please feel free to share any ideas that you might have with me.
We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.
Meet The Parks Brothers
We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.
Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.
We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below!
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