Tennessee

Overview of Tennessee

A relatively small landlocked state bordered on the west by the Mississippi River and to the east by the Appalachian Mountains, Tennessee is perhaps most famous for its music. A massive cultural melting pot, the state is world-renowned for its importance in the development of blues, modern country and rock and roll.

The state capital, Nashville, has a musical heritage second to none, and is home to the Grand Ole Opry - America's centre stage of country music. Since the mid-1950s, one of Tennessee's main tourist attractions has been the legendary king of rock 'n roll, Elvis Presley. He may have died some four decades ago, but Elvis's legacy remains, drawing thousands of fans to his former home in Memphis, the famed Graceland.

Outside of the main cities, Tennessee, which is only 480 miles (772km) long and 115 miles (185km) wide, offers a surprising number of wilderness areas and natural attractions perfect for those adventurers who enjoy exploring the outdoors

In the eastern part of the state, a series of beautiful ridges and valleys rise up to the highest point of Clingman's Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which Tennessee shares with North Carolina. The state is blessed with a vast system of reservoirs, including 29 lakes, often frequented by keen anglers and water-sports enthusiasts.

Tennessee also boasts a multitude of historic heritage trails, including the scenic Trail of Tears, which starts just east of Chattanooga in the south and stretches for 260 miles (418km) through Tennessee before spilling into Kentucky. Along this route, 13,000 displaced Cherokee Indians were forcibly removed to present day Oklahoma. Tennessee was also ravaged by the Civil War and witnessed many battles, and history buffs will delight in the fact that the state now preserves and maintains a number of these war sites, such as Shiloh and Lookout Mountain.

All in all, Tennessee is a big drawcard for musos looking to immerse themselves in one of America's music capitals, history nuts eager to delve into the country's rich war past, and those keen outdoorsmen and women keen to explore the South's natural splendour.

Key Facts

Language:

English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.

Passport/Visa:

It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Visa is required for short visits unless travelers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.

As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Currency:

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.

Electricity:

Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.

Travel to Tennessee

Climate

The Tennessee climate can vary greatly due to the state's diverse topography, but generally the climate is moderate, with warm summers and mild winters. Spring and fall tend to be the best time of year (early fall is the driest time of year), and therefore this is usually the best time to travel to Tennessee, as the summers can get hot, with high humidity, and the winters, though mild, tend to be wet.

The Sequatchie Valley, the Central Basin, and the Gulf Coastal Plain are usually the warmest areas, and Memphis (in the southwest) experiences an average temperature of 83°F (28°C) in the height of summer (July). The mountainous region in the east tends to experience the heaviest snowfall in winter, with the lowest temperatures in the state. Snow does fall in the rest of Tennessee, but tends to melt very quickly. The Smoky Mountains receive the highest annual precipitation levels in the state. The highest rainfall occurs in winter and early spring, with March being the wettest month and severe storms can occur, though usually infrequently.

Health Notes when travelling to United States of America

There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential.

Safety Notes when travelling to United States of America

Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, however, travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened, particularly at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk. There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November.

Customs in United States of America

Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and punishment. The age at which you may legally buy and consume alcohol is 21 years.

Duty Free in United States of America

Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,600 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola, Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country.

Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period.

Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.

Doing Business in United States of America

In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, however in states such as California dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr, Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated. Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.

Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in the States should be mindful of this fact; never make assumptions about someone's position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business structure, in which 'the boss' is the ultimate decision-maker. Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion. Concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture 'time is money', and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. Get to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open manner, and don't take offence if someone questions or challenges you outright.

Communication in United States of America

The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas, and wifi is widely available.

Tipping in United States of America

A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but don't tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties, tip 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if the service is good.

Passport/Visa Note

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Canadians:: The most important requirement on entering the U.S. is providing proof of Canadian citizenship. A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove Canadian citizenship and the right to return to Canada. However, several other documents can serve, depending on the mode of transport. Generally, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada, though there are some exceptions.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:: UK nationals require a passport valid for duration of stay. Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. The VWP includes tourism, certain types of business visit and transit to another country.
Entry requirements for Australians:: Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. If visiting the US for fewer than 90 days, Australian nationals may be eligible to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:: Passports must be valid for duration of stay. Irish nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:: Passports must be valid for duration of stay. New Zealand nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
Entry requirements for South Africans:: South Africans must hold a passport valid for duration of stay. A visa is required.

Currency

Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar
1.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar	0.90 EUR Euro	0.69 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling	108.90 JPY Japanese Yen	1.31 CAD Canadian Dollar	0.99 CHF Swiss Franc
1.38 AUD Australian Dollar	25.11 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia	337.71 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge	1,505.84 LBP Lebanese Pound	0.71 LYD Libyan Dinar	6.86 BOB Bolivian Boliviano
107.88 NPR Nepalese Rupee	0.38 OMR Omani Rial	3.64 QAR Qatari Rial	1.38 SGD Singapore Dollar	8.29 SEK Swedish Krona	6.63 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
9.98 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar	45.83 DOP Dominican Peso	6.72 HRK Croatian Kuna	18.63 MXN Mexican Peso	586.30 XOF West African CFA Franc	3.16 PGK Papua New Guinean kina
1.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar	2.11 FJD Fiji Dollar	22.64 HNL Honduran Lempira	110.53 DZD Algerian Dinar	1,191.31 MMK Myanma Kyat	11.19 BWP Botswana Pula
3.37 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol	693.53 CLP Chilean Peso	478.10 AMD Armenia Dram	24.17 CZK Czech Koruna	19.98 MDL Moldova Lei	124.29 ISK Icelandic Krona
2,938.75 UZS Uzbekistan Sum	3.85 ILS Israeli New Sheqel	0.71 JOD Jordanian Dinar	0.30 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar	31.35 UYU Uruguayan Peso	35.52 MUR Mauritian Rupee
28.51 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba	8.34 NOK Norwegian Krone	3.92 PLN Polish Zloty	3.75 SAR Saudi Riyal	146.02 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee	35.62 THB Thai Baht
3.67 AED U.A.E Dirham	3.59 BRL Brazilian Real	4.05 RON Romanian New Leu	7.77 HKD Hong Kong Dollar	587.63 XAF Central African CFA Franc	22,474.70 VND Vietnamese Dong
13.95 ARS Argentine Peso	2.70 XCD East Caribbean Dollar	7.83 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal	9.77 MAD Moroccan Dirham	0.38 BHD Bahrain Dinar	1.00 PAB Panamanian Balboa
1.50 AZN Azerbaijan Manat	3,117.81 COP Colombian Peso	68.30 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som	279.76 HUF Hungarian Forint	7.87 TJS Tajikistan Ruble	13,683.10 IDR Indonesian Rupiah
8.88 EGP Egyptian Pound	1,191.10 KRW South Korean Won	5,669.42 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní	4.16 MYR Malaysian Ringgit	538.75 CRC Costa Rican Colón	1.47 NZD New Zealand Dollar
104.74 PKR Pakistani Rupee	66.80 RUB Russian Rouble	15.60 ZAR South African Rand	2.12 TND Tunisian Dinar	2.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar	1.75 BGN Bulgarian Lev
2.95 TRY Turkish Lira	46.62 PHP Philippine Peso	32.62 TWD New Taiwan Dollar	196.50 NGN Nigerian Naira	107.15 XPF CFP Franc	3.91 GHS Ghanaian Cedi
124.92 JMD Jamaican Dollar	1.80 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder	1.38 BND Brunei Dollar	110.56 RSD Serbian Dinar	6.58 CNY Chinese Yuan	19,898.50 BYR Belarussian Ruble
6.65 DKK Danish Krone	3.44 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat	67.26 INR Indian Rupee

Exchange Rate for
Euro to U.S. Dollar

1 EUR = 1.12 USD

Exchange Rate for
Canadian Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 CAD = 0.76 USD

Exchange Rate for
U.K. Pound Sterling to U.S. Dollar

1 GBP = 1.44 USD

Exchange Rate for
Australian Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 AUD = 0.72 USD

Exchange Rate for
New Zealand Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 NZD = 0.68 USD

Exchange Rate for
South African Rand to U.S. Dollar

1 ZAR = 0.06 USD

Airports in Tennessee

Memphis International (MEM)
Memphis International Airport
http://www.flymemphis.com

Location: Memphis The airport is situated seven miles (11km) southeast from Memphis.

Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 901 922 8000 or info@flymemphis.com

Transfer between terminals: The terminals are connected by walkways and are within easy walking distance of one another.

Getting to the city: Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) public buses leave regularly for the city centre from a bus station near Terminal C, and there are also services to many out-of-town destinations. Taxis are available outside the terminal buildings. Some hotels provide shuttle services and some shuttle companies serve the wider area. Car rental companies are represented at the airport. Uber and Lyf operate at the airport, pickup areas are located outside the terminals.

Car rental: Rental car agencies are located in the Ground Transportation Center, on the lower level of Terminal B. Car rental companies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National, Enterprise, and Thrifty.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available outside the Terminal B baggage claim area on the ground level between 6am and one hour after the last flight of the day. Approved taxi companies include Dynasty Transportation, Premier Transportation, SFAX, and True Concierge.

Facilities: There are numerous restaurants, bars and cafes and a variety of shops, including an Elvis gift shop, shoeshine services, book stores, and a meditation centre. 24-hour ATMs are located in ticketing levels of Terminal B. Disabled facilities at the airport are good; those with special needs should contact their airline in advance.

Parking: Parking at Memphis International Airport is free for the first 30 minutes. Short-term parking is $2 for the first hour, and $1 every 30 minutes thereafter up to $24 per day. Long-term parking has a similar pricing structure, with a $15 daily rate. Economy parking is $1 for the first 90 minutes, and $6 per day.

Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Nashville International Airport
http://www.flynashville.com

Location: Nashville The airport is situated nine miles (14km) southeast of downtown Nashville.

Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 615 275 1675.

Getting to the city: WeGo Public Transit has a bus service from the airport to the downtown transit station via Route 18; it operates roughly once an hour from around 5:30am to 11:50pm on weekdays, and from around 7am to 10:50pm on weekends and holidays.

Car rental: Car rental companies represented at Nashville International Airport include Advantage, Alamo, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National, Payless, and Thrifty.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available from the airport, however it is advisable to book a taxi in advance. Taxi companies approved by the airport are Allied Cab, American Music City Cab, Checker Cab, Green Cab, Magic Taxi, NashVegas Cab, Nashville Cab, Pink Cab, TennCab, TN National Cab, Volunteer Cab, and Yellow Cab.

Facilities: There are extensive facilities at the airport including a bank, ATMs and postal services. There are numerous restaurants, from fast food outlets to fine dining eateries, as well as several shops. The airport also has art exhibitions and live music performances on the ticketing level, children's play areas, meditation rooms and a massage bar, where professional massage therapists offer seated chair massages. Smoking is permitted in designated lounges. A business centre offers fax, photocopy and internet services. There are good facilities for the disabled; those with special requirements should contact their airline in advance.

Parking: Short-term parking is free for the first 20 minutes, and $8 for an hour up and a daily rate of $24. Long-term Lot A is $8 per hour with a daily rate of $18, and Lot B charges $12 per day. The short-term lot is within walking distance of the terminal, while the other lots offer free shuttle services, beginning at 3.30am daily and ending 45 minutes after the last flight of the day.

Nashville

Tennessee's state capital Nashville draws millions of country fans every year, serenaded by the Nashville sound of crooning vocals, smooth strings and more pop-leaning sensibilities. Hundreds of famous musicians have made their name in Nashville since 1925 when the legendary Grand Ole Opry went on the air, broadcasting weekly shows touting the talents of up and coming stars. This all began in the downtown Ryman Auditorium where the likes of Dolly Parton and Roy Acuff first strutted their stuff.

Visitors still come today to visit Opryland, the resort that incorporates the new Grand Ole Opry, northeast of the city. Just around the corner is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum while fans flock to the area known as The District, crammed with nightclubs, bars and restaurants where country music reigns supreme.

Beyond the soundwaves, Nashville offers many historic sites such as the old Belle Meade Plantation, a centre of thoroughbred breeding and training, as well as the Tennessee State Museum, filled with exhibits detailing the entire state and area history from millions of years ago to the present day.

Known as the Athens of the South because of its early focus on education, there's also the added attraction of the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original which houses a fine collection of art. For those who want to experience a bit of Tennessee's beautiful country scenery and rich wildlife, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is around four hours away.

Getting around in Nashville

Buses and trolleys operate in the streets of Nashville, with the WeGo Public Transit running over 50 routes throughout the city. The daily Bus 34 is the Opry Mills Route that links the downtown district with Opryland while the downtown area and attractions are easily walkable.

There are several taxi companies operating in Nashville, and the major car rental companies offer services. Driving in Nashville's small downtown area can be frustrating but a hired car is useful for excursions out of town.

Nightlife in Nashville

The home of country music, Nashville is big on entertainment. With a music industry that keeps on churning out headlining acts, visitors are sure to have a good time when they hit the Nashville streets for a night out. But don't be fooled by the charming southern drawl, this city isn't just about country. Visitors will find enough rock, jazz, bluegrass and gospel for any discerning taste.

First stop has to be the District, a historic neighbourhood containing beautiful architecture and great southern mansions, with trolley rides or a horse-drawn buggy both good options for taking in the area's sights and sounds. Crammed with nightclubs, bars and restaurants, the District is the heart of Nashville's party scene, particularly Second Avenue's clubs and restaurants. Printer's Avenue is also a good spot for a night on the town and is one of the oldest areas in the District. So too is Lower Broadway, home of the legendary Tootsie's Orchid Lounge where many previously unknown artists have been discovered.

For a more relaxed night out, look no further than Music Valley where you'll find the long-running country music radio broadcast known as the Grand Ole Opry House as well as Nashville Palace and the Opryland Hotel. These bars feature live music while Five Points neighbourhood contains some great bars and cafés for a mellow night out.

Climate in Nashville

Nashville has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Ample annual rainfall keeps things green, but there are enough sunny days in between to keep everyone happy. Summers (June to August) can be very humid, which pushes up the discomfort index even if temperatures do not hit major highs; temperatures average between 79°F (26°C) and 90°F (32°C) in summer. Winters (December to February) are mild to cold, with light snowfall. Average temperatures range from 28°F (-2°C) to 52°F (11°C). Nashville has long springs and autumns and with its diverse array of trees and flowers, this could make it uncomfortable for allergy sufferers.

Sightseeing in Nashville

Nashville is well known as the country music capital of the world, so it's no surprise that many of its most popular attractions are music-related. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the beloved genre, while the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium offer the opportunity to catch popular acts in equally-famous settings. The General Jackson Showboat also offers dinner entertainment on a historic 300-foot (91m) paddleboat.

But there's more to offer tourists in Nashville than just country music. Visitors can learn about the city's long and proud history at the Tennessee State Museum and the Belle Meade Plantation. The city also has plenty of pretty outdoor spaces including Radnor, Centennial Park and Nashville's famous Parthenon. There are numerous golf courses for those wanting to hit the greens while children will enjoy the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere and the Adventure Science Center.

Nashville Attractions

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Found in Downtown Nashville, the Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the world's largest museums and research centres for American music. The core exhibit is Sing Me Back Home, a journey through the history of country music, drawing on the museum's rich collection of costumes, memorabilia, instruments, photographs and manuscripts. Temporary displays focus on individual Hall of Fame inductees, and the Archive Spotlight Series highlights specific themes from the main exhibition. There's a big assemblage of moving images, recorded sounds and photographs, as well as media on the development of recordings, filming and photography. Among the exhibits are Elvis Presley's gold-leaf covered Cadillac, Emmy Lou Harris' jewelled cowboy boots and Bob Dylan's autographed lyric sheets.

Website: www.countrymusichalloffame.org

Ryman Auditorium

Built in 1892, the Ryman Auditorium is regarded as the founding home of country music, having hosted the world-renowned Grand Ole Opry radio show until 1974. Originally serving as an evangelical meeting hall, regular performances by gospel singers and choirs became more common with passing years, with music eventually becoming the building's main focus. Nicknamed the Mother Church of Country Music, superstars like Sarah Bernhardt, Patsy Cline and Elvis Presly have all taken to its stage. Now restored, it holds regular concerts while also operating as a museum, detailing its rich history and offering exhibits highlighting all the great names to have walked through its doors.

Website: www.ryman.com

Grand Ole Opry

No visit to Nashville is complete without attending a show at the Grand Ole Opry, which has been going strong on the airwaves since 1925. From a vast 4,400 seat auditorium on Opryland Drive, the world's longest running radio show is still broadcast on the Nashville station WSM (650 on the AM dial), featuring new stars and legends of country and bluegrass music performing live on stage. From February to October, the shows are hosted by the new Grand Ole Opry House while the winter run from November to January is hosted by the Opry's former smaller home, the Ryman Auditorium.

Website: www.opry.com

Belle Meade Plantation

Belle Meade Plantation is home to an 1853 Greek Revival mansion carefully restored to show off its original elegance. The plantation was founded in 1807 by John Harding, who brought thoroughbred horses for racing and breeding to Tennessee from the commonwealth of Virginia. Visitors to the plantation today can view the authentic Civil War bullet holes that riddle the old mansion's pillars. Among the outbuildings that survive on the 30 acre (12 ha) site is one of the oldest houses in Tennessee, a log cabin built in 1790. There is also a carriage house, visitor centre, tearoom and gift shop. Tours of the antebellum furnished mansion and grounds are given by guides dressed in period costume.

Website: www.bellemeadeplantation.com

Parthenon

The centrepiece of Nashville's Centennial Park is the world's only full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens, complete with a re-creation of the 42ft (13m) high statue of Athena that stood outside the temple in ancient Greece. Like the original, the Parthenon in Nashville faces east to let in light as the sun rises. The Parthenon was originally built for Tennessee's 1897 Centennial Exposition, with direct plaster casts of the Parthenon Marbles and sculptures which adorned the pediment of the temple from 438 BC. The massive bronze doors measuring 24 feet high and 7 feet across come in two sets of two, making them the largest set of matching doors in the world. Today, the Parthenon in Nashville serves as the city's art museum, with a collection highlighting 19th and 20th century American artists.

Website: www.parthenon.org

Tennessee State Museum

One of the largest of its kind in the United States, the Tennessee State Museum tells the story of the region from prehistoric times to the modern day. Founded originally as a portrait gallery, the collection has grown to encompass anything from natural history, first peoples and the throes of independence to civil war, world wars and the Cold War era. Alongside these are numerous temporary exhibits, covering things such as the women's vote and Tennessee's musical heritage, as well as permanent displays of well-preserved artefacts . Also featured are recreations of a 19th-century gristmill, an 18th-century print shop and a Victorian painting gallery.

Website: www.tnmuseum.org

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

East of Nashville on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina lies the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Covering more than one and a half million acres, the park is the largest in the eastern United States and most visited in the country. A designated International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site, it draws millions of visitors every year with its panoramic views, tumbling mountain streams and uninterrupted forest. The mountains are home to a variety of plant and animal life, many of which are unique to the area. A symbol of the Smokies, the American Black Bear is probably the most famous resident, while rarer inhabitants include the river otter, elk and Peregrine Falcon. The park offers numerous outdoor activities and glimpses into early Appalachian farm life, with 77 historic structures like barns, churches and gristmills.

Website: www.nps.gov/grsm

Chattanooga

The fourth largest city in Tennessee, Chattanooga lies at the junction of four interstate highways and well worth a visit. The city has had a renaissance in recent years, redeveloping its riverfront and downtown area to offer an extensive greenway system and river walk through the historic art district and several beautiful parks. Main attractions in the city are the Tennessee Aquarium, Civil War battlefields, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center and a Creative Discovery Museum, as well as the renowned Jack Daniels distillery. The Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel, named after the song, provides the opportunity to sleep in historically decorated train cars and to look at models of trains and trolleys used in the city over the years. The main destination for visitors to Chattanooga is Lookout Mountain, offering its historic Incline Railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world offering panoramic city views, and the Great Smoky Mountains 100 miles (161km) away. Lookout Mountain is also home to Battles for Chattanooga Museum, the underground Ruby Falls and Rock City Gardens, from where it's possible to view seven states on a clear day. There are zipline tours available from Ruby Falls, an adventurous way to take in both the falls and the beautiful mountains.

Website: www.chattanoogafun.com

Knoxville

Visitors are treated to plenty of attractions in Knoxville, a three hour drive east of the more illustrious Nashville. Just a stone's throw away sits the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while downtown Knoxville is home to the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame and the historic Tennessee Theatre. Home to the University of Tennessee, a ticket to a Vols football game is a must, with their fanatical orange-clad supporters and their monstrous 110,000 seater stadium. Lastly, the downtown area known as the Jackson Avenue Warehouse District is full of soot-blackened buildings, jazz bars and funky homestyle restaurants, immortalised by Cormac McCarthy's sprawling novel Suttree.

Website: www.ci.knoxville.tn.us

Events in Nashville

Rock n Roll Marathon
Saturday April 25, 2020 to Sunday April 26, 2020 (TBC)

Where:

Music lovers take to the streets each year to run the Rock 'n Roll Marathon (or a half marathon), vying for trophies and prizes with all proceeds of the race going to charity. The race is part of the Rock 'n Roll Marathon series and is well-organized and smoothly run. The runners are encouraged by the strains of more than 50 bands on about two dozen stages set up along the marathon route, culminating in a massive concert with a top country star which is free for runners. The runs aren't too difficult, while the weather in April is perfect for running in Tennessee. There's also a cheerleading contest and even a small course for kids.

http://www.cmmarathon.com

CMA Fest
Thursday June 10, 2021 to Sunday June 13, 2021 (10 - 13 June)

Where: Various throughout downtown

Country music lovers should make sure to be in Nashville during June for CMA Fest and its feast of four big concerts. The event allows fans to interact with the genre's big names who go all out to meet the fans and happily pose for photographs and sign autographs as they wander through the event and activity venues. CMA Fest is aimed at artists getting to know their fans who flock to Nashville in their tens of thousands for the nightly concerts and all-day non-stop music at Riverfront Park. Up-and-coming artists are also showcased and festival-goers are given the chance to be the first to see tomorrow's stars in the making.

http://www.cmafest.com

Bonnaroo Music Festival
Thursday September 02, 2021 to Sunday September 05, 2021 (2 — 5 September)

Where: Just outside Manchester, Tennessee

Bonnaroo is an American music festival that attracts premier artists, rapidly growing into one of the country's coolest and most popular outdoor festivals. Each year, Bonnaroo draws up to 80,000 people to a 700-acre (283 ha) farm just outside Manchester, Tennessee. Year after year, a diverse line-up grace the festival's many stages in this idyllic setting, showcasing the very best in a huge array of musical genres. Notable past performers include Radiohead, Bruce Springsteen and Elton John. Artisans sell unique products, organic food and drink, while revellers enjoy silent discos, cinema tents and a Ferris wheel. All in all, a great time is pretty much guaranteed but book well in advance, as the festival is routinely sold out.

http://www.bonnaroo.com

Airports in Nashville

Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Nashville International Airport
http://www.flynashville.com

Location: Nashville The airport is situated nine miles (14km) southeast of downtown Nashville.

Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 615 275 1675.

Car rental: Car rental companies represented at Nashville International Airport include Advantage, Alamo, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National, Payless, and Thrifty.

Memphis

The largest city in Tennessee, most associate Memphis with the legendary king of rock n' roll Elvis Presley. Hundreds of thousands of visitors make a pilgrimage to Graceland, the mansion where he lived and died.

The city has had its hand in the shaping of modern musical forms like blues and soul too. Music fans from all over the world stroll down legendary Beale Street in the downtown area, happy to be walking in the footsteps of the blues and soul heroes.

Aside from touring Graceland there are several other music-related attractions, and a whole lot of other things to see and do in Memphis. The nightlife is world-renowned and the cuisine, particularly barbecue, is irresistible. And there are also some fascinating museums, beautiful gardens, Mississippi river boats, amusement parks and quirky cultural and natural sights to explore.

Getting around in Memphis

Public transport is not very reliable in Memphis and the most efficient way to cover the sprawling city is by renting a car, although you may find traffic congestion on major roads. The city is simple to navigate and parking is generally easy to find. To hire a car, drivers must be 21 years old, with most agencies having higher rates for under-25s. Some require an International Driving Permit as well as a valid driver's license.

Public transport is available, consisting of slow and infrequent buses. But there are also shuttle buses that operate around the main attractions in the city centre, which visitors may find more convenient. The famous vintage electric trolleys are a popular way for tourists to get around the city while taxis, Uber and Lyft all operate in the area.

Climate in Memphis

Memphis has a humid subtropical climate, and experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters and hot summers. Spring and autumn can be varied and unpredictable and severe weather, like thunderstorms and strong winds, is possible during these transitory seasons. Summers are very humid thanks to moisture encroaching from the Gulf of Mexico, and while the temperature rarely reaches great heights; it tends to feel hotter than it is. Summer temperatures average between 70°F (21°C) and 92°F (33°C). Winters, by contrast, can be fairly cold with temperatures averaging between 32°F (0°C) and 52°F (11°C). Memphis averages 3.8 inches (9.7cm) of snow a year. There is plenty of rain to keep the region green, most falling in thunderstorms.

Sightseeing in Memphis

Memphis is synonymous with music, with tourists making the trip to visit this melting pot of talent which gave so much to the blues and rock n' roll genres. Music lovers will find every bit of this colourful city memorable, with heroes including Johnny Cash and the king himself Elvis Presley, and the significance of Beale Street.

Indeed, the most popular attraction in Memphis would be Graceland, the mansion belonging to Elvis. It's the second-most visited house in the United States, with thousands of fans passing through its doors throughout the year.

Other favourites would be the Memphis Rock n' Soul Museum, a unique interactive museum detailing the history of rock and soul in America, along with the Stax Museum of American Soul Music that pays homage to the legendary artists recorded at the original Stax Records like Ottis Redding, Wilson Pickett and Elvis Presley.

For those who are interested in more than just the music scene, the Memphis Botanic Gardens are a wonderful outdoors experience and can be enjoyed any time of year. Mud Island in the Mississippi River is great fun for the whole family, and Memphis Zoo is one of only a handful in the US that houses giant pandas.

Memphis Attractions

Graceland

Once the home of the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley, Graceland is the second-most visited house in the United States after the White House. Thousands descend on Memphis to tour the icon's house and grounds, paying respects at his grave. Kept as close as possible to how it was then Elvis lived there, visitors can go on audio-guided tours of the home and trophy building. Guests are also privy to his massive collection of cars, including his renowned 1055 pink Cadillac, and two private jets. Along with general memorabilia and history, guests at Graceland can also order some 1950s and 1960s diner-style food, including the king's infamous deep-fried peanut butter, banana and bacon sandwich.

Website: www.graceland.com

Sun Studio

Sun Studio is enshrined in musical folklore for launching legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison on the road to stardom. Visitors to Sun Studio are privy to a great deal of memorabilia, rare outtakes from recording sessions and can even touch Elvis' first microphone. It still hosts live sessions and recordings with current artists, while for peckish customers there's always the Sun Studio Café, a 50s-style diner and still a favourite musician hangout. Free shuttles are on hand to transport visitors to and from either Graceland or the Rock 'n' Soul Museum.

Website: www.sunstudio.com

Memphis Rock n' Soul Museum

Put together by the Smithsonian Institution, the Memphis Rock n' Soul Museum is a collection of rare recordings, vintage films and interactive exhibits celebrating American musical pioneers. The building is located on the corner of the legendary Highway 61 and equally famous Beale Street, home of urban jazz and blues. From gospel to blues and rock, the museum displays memorabilia from performers such as Ike Turner's piano, B.B. King's guitar and some of Elvis's outfits. Each of its seven galleries has a specific focus, ranging from rural culture and music to the influential Sun Records. The Bravo Gallery focuses on the performers and industry players who contributed to a successful civil rights movement.

Website: www.memphisrocknsoul.org

Pink Palace Museum

The Pink Palace Museum is devoted to culture and natural history. Visitors can also explore dioramas, exhibits and audio-visual displays tracing Memphis' past from the arrival of the Spanish explorers through to the Civil War and yellow fever epidemics. An award-winning medical exhibit highlights the city's development into a healthcare centre for the United States, while dinosaurs, fossils and medical history also feature. There's a planetarium at the Pink Palace, as well as an Imax theatre, nature centre and science centre. Nearby are two further houses of historical interest - the Magevney House, an 1830s clapboard house built by Irish immigrants, and the Mallory-Neely House, a 25-room abode built in 1852. Both still have their original furnishings.

Website: www.memphismuseums.org

Mud Island River Park

Mud Island on the Mississippi offers fascinating insight into the famous river with a series of immersive and informative attractions. The Mississippi River Museum focuses on the history of the Mississippi, as well as the engineering, discovery and settlement of the river and its banks. There's also a display of the Memphis Belle, a famous B-17 bomber from World War II. But the highlight is the River Walk, five blocks long and representing a journey of 1,000 miles (1,609km) from Illinois to Louisiana, ending in a scaled down Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can rent paddle boats, canoes and kayaks, as well as mountain bikes, for exploring.

Website: www.mudisland.com

Memphis Botanic Garden

The delightful Memphis Botanic Gardens are found on a 96 acre (39 ha) site at Audubon Park. Each of 26 gardens are designed according to themes or species, ranging from the Japanese Garden of Tranquillity to the magnificent Municipal Rose Garden. Favourites include a children's garden, the Sensory Garden designed to be enjoyed by the disabled and the Iris Garden, at its best in April and May. There are also popular events such as the weekly farmers markets on Wednesdays from April to October, while there are evenings of wine tastings on Tuesdays from February to October. Three annual plant sales are hosted by the gardens, with proceeds going to various educational and horticultural programs. There are also live concerts in summer, perfect for picnics.

Website: www.memphisbotanicgarden.com

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music details the history of the most successful soul music studio in history. Continuing the legacy of Stax Records, the museum pays tribute to all the artists who recorded there, including the likes of Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding and the Staple Singers. There's a rare and astonishing collection of two thousand interactive exhibits, films and artefacts, as well as general memorabilia and galleries. The museum also gives nods to other influential labels in the genre like Motown, Hi and Atlantic, with giants like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and the Jackson Five receiving praise despite not being part of the Stax stables. It's also important to realise Stax as a cultural phenomenon, starting out at a time when segregation will still a grim reality in the United States.

Website: www.staxmuseum.com

Events in Memphis

Memphis in May
Saturday May 01, 2021 to Monday May 31, 2021 (Various events annually in May)

Where: Various

The Memphis in May Festival is designed to not only highlight the charms of Tennessee, but also that of a different guest country each year. The Barbecue Contest is the first of the big three events happening in May, with grill demonstrations, tours through teams' barbecue spaces and tasty sampling at BBQ Alley. Next up will be the Beale Street Music Festival, delivering an outrageous party over four stages and hosting Cajun music acts along the mighty Mississippi. Lastly, more sporty travellers will no doubt delight in the Great American River Run, with both a 3 mile (5km) and 6 mile (10km) route cutting through the crisp and chilly autumn air.

http://www.memphisinmay.org

Elvis Week
Saturday August 08, 2020 to Sunday August 16, 2020 (8-16 August)

Where: Graceland mansion, Elvis Presley Boulevard

Former home of rock and roll legend Elvis Presley, Graceland in Memphis is one of the most famous and most visited tourist attractions in the United States. Each year on the anniversary of his death, thousands upon thousands of avid fans flock to Graceland for a week of scheduled events, like the Candlelight Vigil, a 1950s style dance party and a fun run in aid of charity. Special guests like former band members, co-stars and bodyguards conduct talks about the King, with topics ranging from his films to his relationship with gospel music. A contest for the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Performer runs throughout the week, on top of live music and special movie screenings.

http://www.elvisweek.com

Airports in Memphis

Memphis International (MEM)
Memphis International Airport
http://www.flymemphis.com

Location: Memphis The airport is situated seven miles (11km) southeast from Memphis.

Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 901 922 8000 or info@flymemphis.com

Transfer between terminals: The terminals are connected by walkways and are within easy walking distance of one another.

Tennessee Attractions