Don’t miss more summer fun in Tennessee. Make plans now before the kids go back to school and those first cool breezes of fall begin to arrive. From the last summer road trip to the last dip in the lake and a scoop or two of ice cream, here are a few ideas of how to make the most of summer moments Made in Tennessee.
Last road trip
Gas up the car, crank up the air conditioning and the Tennessee tunes while traveling along one of 16 Discover Tennessee Trails and Byways. With fun names like Pie in the Sky, Ring of Fire, and Cotton Junction, the trails take travelers from the cities like Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga and Knoxville to the hidden gems of Tennessee towns. Sample pastries from one of Tennessee’s oldest family-owned bakeries, encounter more than 200 year-old history, and learn of music greats like Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin and Tina Turner whose roots run deep in the Volunteer State.
Additionally, The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development in partnership with Tennessee Minor League Baseball has launched Trail Night at the Ballpark!, a special summer marketing campaign showcasing the 16 Discover Tennessee Trails & Byways to families and fans attending minor league games across the state. The Trail Night at the Ballpark! campaign includes promotional items given to the first 200 fans at each stop. One lucky fan at each game will win a Made in Tennessee gift basket.
Last dip
Before cooler temperatures set in, taking a dip in Dale Hollow Lake, one of the cleanest lakes in the U.S., is in order. This lake is located in Byrdstown-Pickett County and attracts millions of visitors for boating, skiing, fishing, swimming and kayaking along its waters. The 27,700 acres of water provides plenty of room for soaking up the last moments of watersports. With 620 miles of shoreline, other activities include bird watching, hunting, horseback trail riding, hiking and biking.
Ice cream is easy to come by all year, but it tastes even better when a treat is needed to cool off. Tennessee makes ice cream eating a whole experience as it is home to Mayfield Dairy in Athens. Learn the process of how Mayfield makes the sweet delight and, afterwards, purchase a huge scoop of a favorite flavor at the old-fashioned Ice Cream Parlors. It’s a summer delight that’s authentically Made in Tennessee.
Last music riff
There’s still time to hear Tennessee’s summertime soundtrack during Elvis Week in Memphis. The city pays tribute to the King of Rock n’ Roll Aug. 8-16 at Graceland and various venues. From tours to concerts to meet and greets with celebrities who were close friends of Elvis, attendees will get a long look into the personal and professional life of the King. The event’s cornerstone is the Candlelight Vigil 8:30 p.m. Aug. 15 at the gates of Graceland where fans walk up the driveway to Elvis’ gravesite while carrying a candle in remembrance. The gates stay open until each person participates, which usually extends to the next morning.
Last tip
Wrap up summer with Boomsday Sept. 6 along the Tennessee River at Volunteer Landing in Knoxville, the U.S.’s largest Labor Day fireworks display. Special events, family-friendly entertainment, and more than 5 tons of fireworks synchronized with music favorites make this a can’t-miss event. Live music artists will be announced.
Keep the taste of summer alive yearlong by visiting the Volunteer State as it was recently named the Best U.S. State for BBQ by TripAdvisor. From Central BBQ in Memphis toPuckett’s in Middle Tennessee to Sweet P’s Barbeque & Soul House in Knoxville and endless barbecue joints sprinkled throughout Tennessee, there’s something nostalgic and seasonal about the way the smoked meats awaken every sense. Pulled pork, smothered ribs, and brisket are awaiting each traveler in Tennessee.