10 Best Retirement Activities in Tennessee
Now that you’ve retired, it’s time for your next adventure. Tennessee is a retiree’s playground, offering tons of fun activities ranging from chocolate tours to exploring nature centers. Many places in the state offer senior discounts that make visiting them even sweeter. Plan your escape and include these 10 best activities for retirees in Tennessee on your next vacation.
Take a chocolate tour at Olive and Sinclair
This is by far one of the best $5 you’ll ever spend! This short and sweet factory tour takes you behind the scenes of their gourmet chocolate creation process. He'll get a chance to see the magic unfold, as well as get a delicious sample as a sweet reward.
Visit Lookout Mountain
This isn't your typical Mountain attraction. Lookout Mountain is home to the famous Ruby Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls located in a subterranean cavern. It's also the locale for the incline railway and Rock City, and you can combine all three experiences into a single event four major savings.
Hitch a ride on the Gatlinburg Trolley
This little German inspired town is a hotspot worth exploring, and you can save your legs to trouble by hopping on the cost-effective trolley that takes you all over the city. For just $2 a day or less, you can get unlimited rides on the trolley and hop on and off as many times as you like. It's by far the easiest way to experience all the city has to offer in a single day.
Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove
This little slice of untouched perfection is one of the Smoky Mountains greatest hidden gems. An hour's drive away from Gatlinburg, this one way, 11-mile scenic loop takes you to unspoiled wilderness, historical sites, and lots of wildlife sightings. The park is free to enter, and you can stay as long as you like.
Enjoy the show at the Grand Ole Opry
One of Nashville's most iconic venues, this place is truly a sight to behold. Formerly a long-running radio show, the stage has grown into a hotspot for musicians and live entertainers that create one-of-a-kind experiences for its audiences. this place is known as we're country music got its start, and the rest is history. You can also take a backstage tour to see where all the magic happens.
Explore Ijam’s Nature Center
This is one of a kind nature center is open to the public, where you can hike, bike, and look for wildlife. Their hiking trails are friendly to all ages and skill levels and take you on an adventure you won’t soon forget. It's a surprising find in bustling Knoxville, but with so much to see and do you’ll want to plan to spend the day here.
See the giant pandas at the Memphis Zoo
Tennessee residents can earn free admission to the Memphis Zoo on Tuesdays after 2 p.m. with valid ID. This is by far one of the most cost-effective activities in the city, and by all means you should take advantage of it. The Memphis Zoo is one of the only locations where you can see giant pandas in the U.S.
Wander through the Pink Palace Museum
This one-of-a-kind museum is truly a sight to behold. Seniors can get a small discount on entry, which includes permanent and touring exhibits that span through the ages. A replica of the first Piggly Wiggly, a country store, and Clyde Park Circus are just a few of the attractions that dazzle visitors time after time.
Enjoy the outdoors at Cumberland Mountain State Park
One of the most iconic state parks in Tennessee, the Cumberland Plateau is a side everyone should see at least once. The park provides no shortage of recreation, from camping and golfing to events to hiking trails, fishing, and more. There's something here for all ages.
Roam Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
The sprawling gardens and estate combine the best of art, flora, and history all rolled into one. during the winter, they have a major holiday light show that will dazzle and delight all ages. they also have a variety of masterfully crafted display gardens, including a sculpture trail and train exhibit.
