A Road Trip from Arlington, Texas to Sevierville, Tennessee: Best Places to Visit
A road trip from Arlington, Texas to Sevierville, Tennessee is a great way to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of the United States. With fantastic scenery, fascinating history, and fun activities, this journey promises an unforgettable adventure. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best places to visit during your drive, so you can make the most of your trip.
Whether you prefer the great outdoors, cultural experiences, or delicious cuisine, this trip has something for everyone. So, fasten your seatbelts, roll down the windows, and let’s hit the road.
Scenic Delights
The route from Arlington, Texas to Sevierville, Tennessee is full of stunning natural beauty. Here are some must-see destinations for nature lovers:
Ouachita National Forest – Located in western Arkansas, this national forest is a true gem for hikers, campers, and sightseers. With over 1.8 million acres of forests, mountains, and rivers, there’s no shortage of breathtaking vistas and wildlife to discover. Don’t miss the Hot Springs National Park, which has 47 hot springs and many historic bathhouses.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – As you enter Tennessee, be sure to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park. Here, you’ll find over 800 miles of trails, scenic drives, waterfalls, and wildlife including black bears, elk, and deer.
Lookout Mountain – This iconic Southern mountain is located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Take a hike, ride the Incline Railway, or visit the Civil War battlefield on top of the mountain.
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area – Located in northeastern Tennessee, this hidden gem offers a rugged and wild landscape of river gorges, sandstone cliffs, and forests. Enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, and horseback riding in this pristine natural setting.
Cultural Experiences
From cowboy culture to blues music to Civil War history, this trip is full of fascinating cultural experiences. Here are some highlights:
Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District – Start your journey in Fort Worth, Texas, with a visit to the historic Stockyards. Here, you’ll witness a living, breathing piece of the Old West, complete with cowboys, longhorns, and rodeos. Don't miss the twice-daily cattle drive!
Beale Street – As you reach Memphis, Tennessee, take a trip down Beale Street, the “Home of the Blues.” This iconic street is lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and shops, and has been the center of African American music for over a century.
Graceland – Elvis Presley’s former home is a pilgrimage site for millions of fans around the world. Located in Memphis, Tennessee, this mansion offers tours of the King’s private rooms, gardens, and exhibits showcasing his music, movies, and personal life.
The Hermitage – One of Tennessee’s most famous landmarks is the home of former President Andrew Jackson. Located in Nashville, this impressive Greek Revival mansion has been preserved as a museum, educating visitors about Jackson’s life and times.
Foodie Adventures
No road trip is complete without sampling local food and drink. Here are some tasty options to try along the way:
BBQ – Texas and Tennessee both boast amazing barbecue traditions, so be sure to indulge in some smoky, savory goodness. In Texas, try the brisket at Angelo’s BBQ in Fort Worth or the ribs at Franklin Barbecue in Austin. In Tennessee, try the pulled pork at Central BBQ in Memphis or the smoked chicken at Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant in Franklin.
Fried Chicken – Southern fried chicken is a must-try during your trip. In Texas, try the crispy chicken at Babe’s Chicken Dinner House in Arlington or Chicken Express in Weatherford. In Tennessee, try the hot chicken at Hattie B’s in Nashville or Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken in Memphis.
Moonshine – Tennessee is famous for its home-brewed moonshine, so why not add a little kick to your road trip? Visit the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to sample a variety of flavors, including apple pie, peach, and lemon drop.
Sweet Treats – Satisfy your sweet tooth with some traditional Southern desserts. In Texas, try the pecan pralines at the Lammes Candies in Fort Worth or the kolaches at Czech Stop in West. In Tennessee, try the banana pudding at The Loveless Cafe in Nashville or the fudge at Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen in Gatlinburg.
Conclusion
There you have it – the best places to visit on a road trip from Arlington, Texas to Sevierville, Tennessee. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, a foodie, or all of the above, these destinations offer something for everyone. So, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the open road – adventure awaits!