Explore Tennessee through its cities, local stories, history, food and landscapes. Start with a city guide or follow a story that catches your attention.
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City locations are approximate. Select a name to explore.
The markets, tables and traditions that tell a place’s story.
02Architecture, landmarks and the people behind them.
03Open spaces, scenic routes and time well spent outside.
04The teams, venues and local rituals that bring people together.
Proudly standing as the 36th largest by area and the 16th most populous among the 50 states of America, Tennessee is a landlocked state situated in the Southeastern region. It is a state with a diverse terrain, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Tennessee is nestled within the Southeastern quadrant of the United States. The state’s geographical and cultural traits have earned it inclusion in the Upland South, while the eastern portion is considered part of Appalachia. Tennessee spans approximately 42,143 square miles, with water bodies comprising 2.2% of this area, making it the 16th smallest state in terms of land area. Tennessee’s topography is defined by the east-west flow of the state, showcasing a mix of cultural features characteristic of Appalachia, the Upland South, and the Deep South.
Tennessee is blessed with a myriad of landforms and topographical features. It comprises six principal physiographic provinces, which are part of three larger regions: the Blue Ridge, Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians, and Cumberland Plateau of the Appalachian Mountains; the Highland Rim and Nashville Basin of the Interior Low Plateaus, and the East Gulf Coastal Plain of the Atlantic Plain. The state’s highest point, Clingmans Dome, towers majestically at 6,643 feet above sea level, making it the third-highest peak in eastern North America. On the other hand, the lowest point in the state, located in Memphis, is 178 feet above sea level.
Three major rivers, the Tennessee, Cumberland, and Mississippi, serve as the lifeline for the state of Tennessee. The Tennessee River, born from the confluence of the Holston and French Broad rivers, courses southwest through Chattanooga before veering north into Alabama and then re-emerging in western Tennessee and flowing north into Kentucky. The Cumberland River originates in the northeastern Highland Rim, flows through Nashville, turns northwest to Clarksville, and then enters Kentucky east of the Tennessee River. The mighty Mississippi River drains almost all of West Tennessee.
Tennessee’s history traces back to the Watauga Association, a frontier pact generally regarded as the first constitutional government west of the Appalachian Mountains. The state’s name originates from “Tanasi”, a Cherokee town that existed before the first European American settlement. Tennessee’s diverse history extends from its initial establishment as a part of North Carolina, later becoming the Southwest Territory, before finally being admitted to the Union as the 16th state on June 1, 1796.
Tennessee’s journey towards statehood was marked by significant developments. The state’s population census, conducted in June 1795, reported a population of over 77,000, paving the way for a constitutional convention in January 1796. The convention led to the creation of the state’s constitution in February 1796 and the subsequent admission of Tennessee to the Union in June of the same year.
Tennessee played a pivotal role in the American Civil War. The state was politically divided, with western and middle parts supporting the Confederacy and the eastern region harboring Union sentiment. Consequently, Tennessee was the last state to secede and the first to be readmitted to the Union after the war.
The 20th century marked significant changes for Tennessee. The state transitioned from a predominantly agrarian society to a more diversified economy, aided by massive federal investment in the Tennessee Valley Authority and the city of Oak Ridge, which hosted the Manhattan Project’s uranium enrichment facilities. The state also witnessed major socio-political changes with the Civil Rights Movement and the implementation of landmark legislation.
As of 2020, the population of Tennessee stood at approximately 6.91 million. The state’s demographics have been shaped by a mix of natural increase and net migration. The state’s diverse population is spread across its cities, towns, and counties, with Nashville serving as the state’s capital and the largest city.
The ethnic composition of Tennessee is predominantly Non-Hispanic White, accounting for 70.9% of the population. African Americans make up approximately 16.9% of the total population, followed by Hispanics or Latinos at 6.9%. The state’s ethnic diversity is further enriched by the presence of various other racial and ethnic groups.
Tennessee’s religious landscape is predominantly Christian, with Protestantism being the most adhered to denomination. The state’s religious affiliations reflect its historical and cultural roots and have played a significant role in shaping its societal norms and values.
Tennessee boasts a thriving and diverse economy, with a gross state product of $418.3 billion. The state’s economy has evolved over the years, transitioning from agricultural dominance to a more diversified mix of manufacturing and services. Key industries in the state include the automotive sector, healthcare, music, tourism, and agriculture.
Agriculture continues to play a significant role in Tennessee’s economy. The state’s fertile lands yield crops like soybeans, corn, cotton, and tobacco. Tennessee also has a robust livestock industry, with cattle farming being a significant agricultural activity.
Tennessee’s automotive industry has experienced significant growth over the years. The state is home to three major assembly plants and numerous auto suppliers. This sector not only contributes significantly to the state’s GDP but also generates thousands of jobs.
Tennessee’s healthcare industry is another key economic sector. Nashville, in particular, is known as a healthcare hub, housing numerous hospitals, clinics, and healthcare companies. These institutions not only provide critical healthcare services but also contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
Music and tourism are integral to Tennessee’s economy. The state is renowned for its musical heritage, particularly in cities like Nashville and Memphis. The state’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture also make it a popular tourist destination, boosting the local economy.
Tennessee’s education system comprises a blend of public and private institutions. The state is home to several renowned universities and colleges, offering a range of programs and courses. Tennessee also has a robust public school system, with numerous school districts spread across the state. The state’s commitment to education is reflected in various initiatives aimed at improving education levels and outcomes.
Tennessee’s cultural landscape is as diverse as its geography. The state is home to numerous cultural institutions, showcasing everything from Tennessee’s musical heritage to its historical artifacts. Music, in particular, plays a significant role in the state’s culture, with genres like country, blues, rock and roll, soul, and gospel having deep roots in Tennessee.
Tennessee’s natural landscape is as diverse as its cultural heritage. The state boasts a myriad of natural attractions, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cumberland Plateau, and the Mississippi Alluvial Plain. These natural wonders offer a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and wildlife viewing, making Tennessee a paradise for nature lovers.
Tennessee is a state of diverse landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, robust economy, and warm people. Whether you’re drawn by the music, the mountains, or the myriad opportunities, Tennessee offers something for everyone.
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