Exploring Tennessee by Train, Boat, or Hot Air Balloon
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers an unforgettable train journey through the heart of East Tennessee. Departing from the charming town of Bryson City, located about an hour northwest of Asheville, North Carolina, this historic rail line winds along the Tuckasegee River through lush forests and past towering cliffs. The route to Nantahala Gorge is especially popular for its dramatic views and glimpses of cascading waterfalls. Trains often feature open-air gondola cars, perfect for photography and soaking in the fresh mountain air. The railroad’s combination of vintage steam and diesel locomotives adds a nostalgic charm that sets it apart from other scenic trains in the state. Spring and fall bring stunning foliage transformations, making those seasons particularly magical for a ride.
Down south near Chattanooga, the Tennessee River snakes through rugged terrain, offering a spectacular setting for a riverboat cruise. The Southern Belle Riverboat, docked just a short walk from downtown Chattanooga, provides a leisurely way to experience the city’s scenic riverfront. Cruising past landmarks like Lookout Mountain and the Walnut Street Bridge, passengers can enjoy narrated tours that highlight the region’s Civil War history and natural beauty. The boat’s multi-level decks and enclosed dining room create a comfortable environment for spotting bald eagles and osprey that frequent this stretch of the river. Summer evenings, when the sunsets paint the sky in pinks and oranges over the water, create an especially picturesque backdrop for a riverboat outing.
For a sky-high perspective, the Tennessee River Gorge near Chattanooga also serves as a brilliant launching point for hot air balloon flights. Companies offering sunrise balloon rides lift off from the fields just outside the city, drifting over the steep limestone cliffs and hardwood forests that line the river. From 1,000 feet up, passengers catch sweeping panoramas of the winding river below and the sprawling cityscape beyond. The peaceful silence of the balloon ride contrasts beautifully with the rugged landscape beneath, making it a unique way to appreciate this corner of Tennessee. Early morning flights are ideal, when the air is calm and the golden light enhances the vibrant greens and blues of the valley.
Further west, in Memphis, the city’s historic Cotton Row district reveals a different kind of Tennessee travel experience tied to the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River Museum at Mud Island, just a short drive from downtown Memphis, offers a fascinating look at the river’s role in the region’s commerce and culture. Visitors can explore detailed exhibits on riverboats, the mighty flood of 1927, and the steamboat era that shaped the city’s growth. While the museum itself is compelling, stepping outside onto Mud Island’s Riverwalk provides a scaled model of the entire Mississippi River, complete with waterfalls and tributaries. The combination of indoor learning and outdoor exploration makes this a must-visit site. Late spring or early fall are great times to visit, as the river’s water levels and weather are typically pleasant for walking the outdoor sections.
In central Tennessee, the historic town of Nashville invites travelers to experience rail travel in a new way aboard the Music City Star commuter train. This line connects Nashville with the suburb of Lebanon, about a 30-minute ride east of the city. Though serving daily commuters, the train also offers tourists a relaxed way to see the Tennessee countryside without the hassle of driving. Along the route, passengers glimpse rolling farmland, quaint towns, and the Cumberland River as it winds through the region. Arriving in Lebanon allows visitors to explore its charming downtown square, complete with antique shops and local eateries. Springtime, when the dogwoods and redbuds are blooming, highlights the route’s pastoral beauty.
In the heart of the Cumberland Plateau, the town of Chattanooga also offers a unique rail experience through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Located just minutes from downtown, the museum preserves an extensive collection of vintage trains and operates excursion trips on historic lines. One standout journey is the ride to Grand Junction, where passengers travel through scenic farmland and forested hills. The museum’s emphasis on restoration and education creates a hands-on experience that appeals to both families and history buffs. Fall is a particularly popular time to visit, as the vibrant autumn colors enhance the views from the train windows.
Hot air ballooning returns to the gentle hills around Franklin, about 20 minutes south of Nashville, where balloonists lift off to drift above historic plantations and lush farmland. Flights here offer a peaceful contrast to the nearby city bustle, with opportunities to spot deer and other wildlife in the early morning light. The rolling landscape, dotted with century-old trees and fields, provides a picture-perfect setting for balloon enthusiasts and photographers alike. Seasons of calm weather, especially late spring and early autumn, provide the best conditions for smooth flights and clear views.
Together, these varied experiences—from mountain railroads and river cruises to balloon rides over verdant valleys—showcase Tennessee’s rich, diverse landscapes in vivid detail. Whether gazing at Smoky Mountain peaks from a vintage train or floating silently above the Tennessee River Gorge, travelers find a fresh perspective on the state’s natural beauty and cultural history. Each mode of travel reveals a different facet of Tennessee’s charm, inviting visitors to explore its scenic wonders at their own pace and from unforgettable vantage points.