Nashville Joins Memphis, Clarksville, Jonesborough, Tullahoma, Walland, and More in Tennessee to Surge US Tourism with New Hotels Oppenning, Renovated Parks, and Unique Attractions From 2026: Everything You Need To Know

Published on December 4, 2025

In 2026, Nashville joins Memphis, Clarksville, Jonesborough, Tullahoma, Walland, and more as top travel destinations in Tennessee, offering exciting new attractions, unique experiences, and cultural celebrations. From Nashville’s Songteller Hotel celebrating Dolly Parton’s legacy to Memphis’ innovative mix of art and history, each city promises something special. Clarksville’s Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum honors military heritage, while Jonesborough brings a vibrant mix of tradition and modern culinary delights. Tullahoma’s craft beer scene and Walland’s Blackberry Farm offer relaxation and adventure, making Tennessee the perfect destination for travelers seeking both excitement and tranquility.

Nashville: The Heartbeat of Music & Innovation

Nashville is ready to shine in 2026 with some incredible new attractions. The highly anticipated Songteller Hotel, opening in June, will celebrate Dolly Parton’s legacy through an immersive museum experience, rooftop bar, and live entertainment. Food lovers can indulge at Kuya, an Asian-inspired restaurant by James Beard semifinalist Dung Vo. For music fans, The Mix Room will allow artists to live stream their performances worldwide, and The Truth venue by Live Nation promises a next-level fan experience. Nashville will also honor its culinary icons, celebrating Loveless Cafe’s 75th anniversary and the Catbird Seat’s 15th year as a Michelin-starred favorite, making it an exciting year for both locals and visitors.

Memphis: A City of Legacy & Creativity

Memphis is set to embrace its rich history while pushing the boundaries of creativity in 2026. The new Memphis Art Museum, opening in December, will offer a unique combination of art galleries, classrooms, and an “art park in the sky” for breathtaking views. The National Civil Rights Museum will introduce its Legacy Building to honor pivotal civil rights moments. Foodies will enjoy Briza, a restaurant blending global flavors in Crosstown Concourse. In addition, Overton Park celebrates its 125th anniversary with arts and recreation events, while the Overton Park Shell marks its 90th year of live music. Memphis is a city where history meets innovation in exciting ways.

Clarksville: A Hub for History & Craft Spirits

Clarksville is booming with new attractions and experiences in 2026. The Leatherwood Distillery is moving into a larger, state-of-the-art space in January, offering tours, tastings, and live music, while continuing to celebrate its veteran-owned roots. The much-anticipated Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum, opening in March, will be the second-largest museum in the Army-museum network, honoring the legacy of service members. This vibrant city is becoming a hub for history, culture, and craft spirits, offering visitors a deeper connection to its military heritage while embracing modern attractions that celebrate its evolving community spirit.

Jonesborough: Timeless Charm with a New Twist

Jonesborough, Tennessee’s oldest town, is embracing a vibrant mix of culture, food, and tradition in 2026. The town’s St. Paddy’s Festival will feature the iconic Clydesdale Draft Horse Team, along with Irish music, Highland cows, and a bustling marketplace. For food lovers, Jackson’s Prime will bring upscale dining with USDA Prime steaks and fresh seafood, while Merely Modest Boutique offers curated fashion and accessories from a local young entrepreneur. Jonesborough’s charm is enhanced by these new experiences, offering a perfect blend of the town’s historic roots and a fresh, exciting atmosphere for visitors.

Tullahoma: Craft Beer & Community Vibes

Tullahoma is set to become a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts in 2026. The newly renovated Ole Shed Brewing Company will offer a spacious venue for live music, craft brews, and local food trucks, creating a lively atmosphere for all. Tullahoma’s small-town charm and vibrant community vibe make it a perfect place for those seeking a laid-back yet dynamic experience. Whether you’re sampling a unique craft beer or enjoying an evening of music and good food, Tullahoma promises an inviting, authentic Tennessee experience for all visitors.

Walland: A Luxurious Escape in the Smokies

Walland’s Blackberry Farm is celebrating 50 years of unparalleled luxury in 2026, offering a one-of-a-kind experience nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its exceptional wellness programs, culinary delights, and outdoor adventures, Blackberry Farm provides guests with the perfect escape. Whether it’s savoring gourmet meals crafted from local ingredients or immersing in nature, this retreat offers relaxation and rejuvenation at its finest. Walland’s scenic beauty and the world-class offerings of Blackberry Farm make it a top destination for those seeking a blend of tranquility and adventure in the heart of East Tennessee.

Tennessee Unveils Exciting New Attractions and Anniversaries for 2026

Tennessee is set to shine in 2026 with a range of exciting new attractions, experiences, and anniversaries across the state. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the most anticipated openings and celebrations:

New Attractions and Experiences

• Gatlinburg: Anakeesta’s expansion introduces a next-generation scenic lift, a reimagined Firefly Village, and a nighttime Firefly Experience, offering guests a magical way to explore the Smokies.
• Smoky Mountains: Local outfitter A Walk in the Woods will expand its Blue Ghost and Synchronous Firefly experiences, offering immersive firefly tours and wilderness adventures in May and June.
• Pigeon Forge: Dollywood’s NightFlight Expedition, launching in Spring 2026, offers a thrilling ride through the Smokies, conquering rapids and gliding across a shimmering lake.
• Memphis: The new Memphis Art Museum, opening in December 2026, will feature galleries, classrooms, and an “art park in the sky” with panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River.
• Clarksville: The Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum, opening in March, will be the second-largest museum in the Army-museum network, honoring the legacy of service members.
• Jonesborough: The St. Paddy’s Festival will feature the iconic Clydesdale Draft Horse Team, along with Irish music, Highland cows, and a bustling marketplace.

New Hotels and Places to Stay

• Nashville: The Songteller Hotel, opening in June 2026, will celebrate Dolly Parton’s legacy with immersive exhibits, a rooftop bar, and live entertainment.
• Chattanooga: The Waymark Hotel, a revitalized landmark in downtown, will blend timeless grandeur with modern amenities, featuring a subterranean speakeasy called The Vault.
• Jefferson County: Wyldstay Smoky Mountains, a luxury retreat with stunning views of Douglas Lake and the Smokies, will offer an unparalleled experience for nature lovers.

New Restaurants, Breweries, and Music Venues

• Memphis: Briza, located in Crosstown Concourse, blends bold flavors with Memphis hospitality, offering inventive sushi, wood-fired seafood, and coastal-inspired dishes.
• Nashville: Kuya, opening in the West End neighborhood, will bring Asian-inspired flavors to the city, led by James Beard semifinalist Dung Vo.
• Clarksville: Leatherwood Distillery will expand into a larger space, continuing its mission of crafting exceptional spirits while offering tours, tastings, and live music.

Renovated or Reimagined Spaces

• Memphis: The National Civil Rights Museum’s Legacy Building will open in spring 2026, offering immersive exhibits that explore pivotal moments in civil rights history.
• Nashville: The historic Nashville Arcade will continue its renovations, adding new dining and shopping options in the heart of downtown.
• Chattanooga: The Tivoli Theatre, known as the “Jewel of the South,” will reopen in mid-2026 with a new cinema, expanded lobby, and modernized event spaces.

Iconic Anniversaries

• Memphis: Overton Park Shell will celebrate 90 years of live music and cultural programming, while Overton Park itself marks 125 years of recreation and community engagement.
• Nashville: Loveless Cafe will celebrate its 75th anniversary, and The Catbird Seat will mark its 15th year as a Michelin-starred restaurant.
• Walland: Blackberry Farm, a luxury destination in the Smoky Mountains, will celebrate its 50th anniversary, offering wellness, culinary experiences, and outdoor adventure.

Tennessee Tourism in 2026

With new attractions, immersive experiences, significant anniversaries, and renovated spaces, 2026 is shaping up to be a year to remember for Tennessee tourism. From the Smoky Mountains to vibrant cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga, Tennessee offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, or history.

In 2026, Nashville joins Memphis, Clarksville, Jonesborough, Tullahoma, Walland, and more as top travel destinations in Tennessee, offering exciting new attractions, unique experiences, and cultural celebrations.

Conclusion

Nashville, Memphis, Clarksville, Jonesborough, Tullahoma, Walland, and more are set to shine as top Christmas and New Year travel destinations in Tennessee for 2026. With exciting new attractions, cultural events, and unforgettable experiences, these cities offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking music, history, craft spirits, or luxury escapes, Tennessee promises a dynamic and vibrant year ahead, making it the perfect destination for both locals and visitors.