What’s the best time to visit Tennessee, USA? (Best things to see and do 2023)

Are you planning a trip to Tennessee, USA? The best time to visit this beautiful and diverse state depends on what type of vacation you are looking for.

With Tennessee located in the Eastern United States, it experiences all four seasons throughout the year and offers countless exciting activities across its wide range of climates.

Whether you’re interested in experiencing outdoor adventures or spending time immersed in rich history & culture, there is an optimal season that suits your needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best times of year to visit different areas within the state so that you can make the most out of your next Tennessee getaway.

The Weather in Tennessee Patterns Months

Tennessee’s weather patterns can differ greatly depending on the region of the state you visit.

January:

• Winter season with cool to cold temperatures.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 40s°F (8-9°C) in the west to the low 50s°F (10-11°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the mid-20s°F (-3 to -4°C) in the west to the upper 20s°F (-2 to -3°C) in the east.
• Snowfall is possible, especially in the eastern parts of the state.
• Rainfall is typically moderate.

February:

• Continuation of winter weather with gradually warming temperatures.
• Average high temperatures range from the mid-50s°F (12-13°C) in the west to the low 50s°F (10-11°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 20s°F (-2 to -3°C) in the west to the low 30s°F (-1 to -2°C) in the east.
• Snowfall can still occur in the higher elevations of eastern Tennessee.
• Rainfall remains moderate.

March:

• Transition month with fluctuating temperatures.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 50s°F (13-14°C) in the west to the low 60s°F (15-16°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 30s°F (3-4°C) in the west to the mid-30s°F (1-2°C) in the east.
• Increasing chances of rain and thunderstorms.
• Spring foliage begins to emerge.

April:

• Spring season with mild and pleasant weather.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 60s°F (19-20°C) in the west to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the mid-40s°F (7-8°C) in the west to the upper 40s°F (8-9°C) in the east.
• Rainfall is moderate, and thunderstorms become more frequent.
• Trees and flowers blossom.

May:

• Mild to warm temperatures become widespread.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 70s°F (25-26°C) in the west to the low 80s°F (26-27°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the mid-50s°F (12-13°C) in the west to the upper 50s°F (13-14°C) in the east.
• Thunderstorms become more frequent, especially in the latter half of the month.
• Increasing humidity levels.

June:

• Warm and sometimes hot temperatures prevail.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 80s°F (30-31°C) in the west to the low 90s°F (32-33°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 60s°F (20-21°C) in the west to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the east.
• Thunderstorms and occasional severe weather are common.
• Increasing humidity levels.

July:

• Hot and humid weather characterizes the month.
• Average high temperatures range from the low 90s°F (32-33°C) in the west to the mid-90s°F (35-36°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 60s°F (20-21°C) in the west to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the east.
• Thunderstorms and occasional severe weather continue.
• High humidity levels.

August:

• Hot and humid conditions persist.
• Average high temperatures range from the low 90s°F (32-33°C) in the west to the mid-90s°F (35-36°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 60s°F (20-21°C) in the west to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the east.
• Thunderstorms and occasional tropical systems can bring heavy rainfall.
• High humidity levels.

September:

• Transition month with gradually cooling temperatures.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 80s°F (30-31°C) in the west to the low 90s°F (32-33°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 60s°F (20-21°C) in the west to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the east.
• Thunderstorm activity begins to decrease.
• Fall foliage starts to appear.

October:

• Mild and pleasant temperatures prevail.
• Average high temperatures range from the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the west to the upper 70s°F (25-26°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 40s°F (8-9°C) in the west to the mid-50s°F (12-13°C) in the east.
• Decreasing chances of rain, but occasional showers are still possible.
• Vibrant fall foliage.

November:

• Cool temperatures become prevalent.
• Average high temperatures range from the mid-50s°F (12-13°C) in the west to the upper 50s°F (13-14°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the mid-30s°F (1-2°C) in the west to the low 40s°F (4-5°C) in the east.
• Rainfall is generally moderate.
• Fall foliage reaches its peak.

December:

• Winter season with cool to cold temperatures.
• Average high temperatures range from the mid-40s°F (7-8°C) in the west to the low 50s°F (10-11°C) in the east.
• Average low temperatures range from the mid-20s°F (-3 to -4°C) in the west to the low 30s°F (-1 to -2°C) in the east.
• Snowfall is possible, especially in the higher elevations.
• Rainfall is typically moderate.

Weather Patterns of Tennessee throughout the Seasons

Understanding the weather patterns of Tennessee is crucial to both tourists planning a trip and local residents planning outdoor activities.

Here’s a quick glimpse into what you can expect throughout the seasons.

Spring (March to May):

• Transition from cool to mild temperatures.
• Increasing chances of rain and thunderstorms.
• Spring foliage emerges, and trees and flowers blossom.
• Temperatures gradually warm up, with mild and pleasant weather becoming more common.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 50s°F (13-14°C) to the low 80s°F (26-27°C).
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 30s°F (3-4°C) to the upper 60s°F (20-21°C).

Summer (June to August):

• Hot and humid weather prevails.
• High temperatures, often exceeding 90°F (32°C) in many areas.
• Thunderstorms and occasional severe weather are common, with heavy rainfall possible.
• High humidity levels can make the heat feel more intense.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 80s°F (30-31°C) to the mid-90s°F (35-36°C).
• Average low temperatures range from the upper 60s°F (20-21°C) to the low 70s°F (21-22°C).

Fall (September to November):

• Transition from hot to cool temperatures.
• Gradually cooling temperatures with mild and pleasant weather.
• Decreasing chances of rain, but occasional showers are still possible.
• Vibrant fall foliage colors, especially in October.
• Average high temperatures range from the upper 70s°F (25-26°C) to the mid-50s°F (12-13°C).
• Average low temperatures range from the low 50s°F (10-11°C) to the mid-30s°F (1-2°C).

Winter (December to February):

• Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall.
• Average high temperatures range from the mid-40s°F (7-8°C) to the low 50s°F (10-11°C).
• Average low temperatures range from the mid-20s°F (-3 to -4°C) to the low 30s°F (-1 to -2°C).
• Snowfall is possible, especially in higher elevations and eastern parts of the state.
• Rainfall is typically moderate.
• Winter weather can vary, with some periods of milder temperatures and occasional cold fronts.

What’s the best time to visit Tennessee, USA?

Now, if we talk about the best time visit Tennessee, there are certain times of the year offer unique experiences that can make your trip even more memorable.

While the “Volunteer State” is beautiful year-round, there’s something undeniably special about visiting between June and August.

With warm temperatures, clear skies, and longer days, this is the peak season for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and river rafting.

Visitors during this time can enjoy everything from the picturesque landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains to the vibrant music scene in Nashville.

From the natural wonders of the state’s national parks to the urban excitement of its cities, a summer trip to Tennessee promises to be an unforgettable experience.

10 Best things to see and do in Tennessee

Now, let’s look at some of the top things to see and do in Tennessee.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

• Explore the stunning natural beauty of the most visited national park in the United States.
• Hike scenic trails like the Appalachian Trail or Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Tennessee.
• Enjoy breathtaking waterfalls, wildlife spotting, and panoramic mountain views.
• Go camping, fishing, or horseback riding in the park’s picturesque settings.
• Visit Cades Cove, a historic settlement showcasing log cabins, churches, and a scenic loop road.

Nashville:

• Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene, often referred to as the “Music City.”
• Visit the iconic Grand Ole Opry and experience live country music performances.
• Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the genre’s rich history.
• Take a stroll down Broadway and enjoy live music pouring out of numerous honky-tonks.
• Visit the historic Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”

Memphis:

• Discover the birthplace of blues music and visit Beale Street, known for its lively atmosphere and blues clubs.
• Explore the iconic Sun Studio, where legendary musicians like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded their first hits.
• Pay tribute to Elvis Presley at Graceland, his former home turned museum.
• Experience the vibrant soul and history of Memphis at the National Civil Rights Museum.
• Indulge in mouthwatering barbecue at renowned spots like Central BBQ and Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken.

Chattanooga:

• Admire the natural wonders of Lookout Mountain and visit Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall.
• Take a scenic ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways.
• Explore the Tennessee Aquarium, known for its impressive marine life exhibits.
• Enjoy outdoor activities like rock climbing, hiking, and biking in the surrounding mountains.
• Visit the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo and see the iconic Terminal Station.

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:

• Experience the bustling mountain resort towns located near the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains.
• Enjoy family-friendly entertainment at Dollywood, a theme park owned by Dolly Parton.
• Take a scenic drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for picturesque views.
• Explore the unique attractions of Gatlinburg, including Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg SkyLift.
• Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum or indulge in local moonshine tastings.

Knoxville:

• Discover the vibrant city of Knoxville and stroll along the scenic Tennessee River waterfront.
• Explore the Knoxville Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of regional and contemporary art.
• Attend a University of Tennessee Volunteers football game at Neyland Stadium.
• Visit the historic Market Square for shopping, dining, and live entertainment.
• Take a walk through World’s Fair Park and see the iconic Sunsphere, a remnant of the 1982 World’s Fair.

Jack Daniel’s Distillery:

• Take a tour of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg.
• Learn about the history and craftsmanship behind Tennessee whiskey production.
• See the charcoal mellowing process and the famous Jack Daniel’s barrelhouses.
• Sample different varieties of Jack Daniel’s whiskey during a tasting session.
• Explore the town of Lynchburg and enjoy Southern hospitality at local shops and restaurants.

The Lost Sea Adventure:

• Venture underground to explore the vast underground lake at The Lost Sea Adventure in Sweetwater.
• Take a guided tour through a series of caves and marvel at intricate rock formations.
• Board a glass-bottom boat to navigate the subterranean lake, home to an array of fascinating fish.
• Learn about the geological history of the area and the legends surrounding the Lost Sea.
• Enjoy outdoor activities like gem mining and nature trails in the surrounding area.

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage:

• Step back in time and visit the historic home of the 7th President of the United States, Andrew Jackson.
• Take a guided tour of the Hermitage mansion and explore the beautiful gardens and grounds.
• Learn about Jackson’s life and presidency at the museum and visitor center.
• Visit Jackson’s tomb and pay respects to one of America’s influential figures.
• Attend special events and reenactments that bring the history of the Hermitage to life.

Cumberland Caverns:

• Embark on an underground adventure at Cumberland Caverns in McMinnville.
• Take a guided tour through the extensive cave system, marveling at stunning rock formations.
• Explore unique features like the “Volcano Room,” a natural amphitheater with incredible acoustics.
• Attend a live concert or bluegrass jam session held in the caverns.
• Engage in thrilling activities like spelunking, rappelling, and zip-lining for an unforgettable experience.

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