logo 2021

Best places in Tennessee to get a great view

Story by Emily Graham

Tennessee is home to some of the most scenic locations that it is quite easy to find a place with a scenic view. Most people do not even realize how many options there are. Whether you are looking for a view of a city skyline or an up close and personal look at mother nature, Tennessee has several different options. Compiled below are some of the best scenic places to visit while you are in Tennessee.

 
Murfreesboro Greenway System
 
John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
 
Love Circle
 
Double Arch Bridge - Natchez Trace
 
Sunset Rock
 
Snoopers Rock
 
Twin Arches
 
The Lost Sea
 
Cades Cove
map

The Murfreesboro Greenway System

Where? Murfreesboro

How far of a drive from MTSU? 10 minutes

Why should you visit? The Murfreesboro Greenway System is a 15-mile trek that provides access to several outdoor activities. There are several places to enjoy the picturesque views of nature. This is the place to go when you are wanting a close-up view.

greenway

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Where? Nashville

How far of a drive from MTSU? 40 minutes

Why should you visit? ? Want to have the perfect city skyline view that is easy access? Look no further than the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge in downtown Nashville. This bridge is the perfect spot to take a look at the city while also enjoying the view of the Cumberland River that runs right through it.

bridge

Love Circle

Where? Nashville

How far of a drive from MTSU? 45 minutes

Why should you visit? Another option to see the Nashville skyline is Love Circle. This location sits on the outskirts of downtown, so the view is still clear. I suggest packing some food and picnicking on the hill at sunset. Watching the cityscape transform is beautiful.

lovecircle

Double Arch Bridge – Natchez Trace

Where? Franklin

How far of a drive from MTSU? 1 hour

Why should you visit? This bridge rises 155 feet high and 1,648 feet across a valley. With it being just a short drive from Murfreesboro, walking across this bridge at sunrise is a must. The clear view of the sky changing colors is stunning and something you do not want to miss out on. Though this is not a large tourist area, you will not be the only pedestrian on the bridge as there are many locals who do this.

archbridge

Sunset Rock

Where? Chattanooga

How far of a drive from MTSU? 1 hour & 45 minutes

Why should you visit? Just a drive up the mountain and a very short hike, you will find yourself on a rocky cliff overlooking the Chattanooga cityscape and the river. It gets its name from how stunning the view of the sunset is from the rock. It gets moderately crowded so be there in enough time before sunset to get a good position.

sunset

Snoopers Rock

Where? Chattanooga

How far of a drive from MTSU? 2 hours

Why should you visit? If you are looking for a short hike with a rewarding view of nature at the end, Snoopers Rock is your place. This overlook provides a beautiful view of the Tennessee River. It is roughly 1.4 miles round trip and ranked as an easy hike. This hike is just outside of Chattanooga, but you forget you are close to a city when you are engulfed in the nature that this place provides.

snoopers

Twin Arches

Where? Oneida

How far of a drive from MTSU? 2 hours & 45 minutes

Why should you visit? To see the Twin Arches, you must embark on a short hike. This is the kind of view that leaves you awestruck by how large it is. In fact, it is actually the largest natural bridge in Tennessee. If you are looking for a way to feel immersed in nature, make the drive to Oneida to visit this trail.

twinarches

The Lost Sea

Where? Sweetwater

How far of a drive from MTSU? 2 hours & 45 minutes

Why should you visit? Sweetwater is home to the largest underground lake that is referred to as The Lost Sea. It is a part of a vast series of caves in the area. It has been made into an attraction, so it is easy and safe to visit and explore. From glass bottom boat rides to walking tours, there are many different options to explore the views inside the cave

lostsea

Cades Cove

Where? Cades Cove

How far of a drive from MTSU? 4 hours

Why should you visit?This is the perfect location to feel surrounded by nature. The scenic valley is popular amongst tourists for good reason. Not only do you have the perfect view of the Smoky Mountains, but you are also likely to see some wildlife in the area. Every direction you turn, there is guaranteed to be a pleasing view. Definitely visit here if you ever find yourself in the Gatlinburg area.

twinarches
Javascript must be enabled for this site to function.

MTSyou.net is an independent project by students in the Visual Communication concentration at MTSU, and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Middle Tennessee State University.
Last updated December 2021

About this site
Contact