Unique Places to Stay in Tennessee: Unforgettable Lodging Experiences in the Volunteer State

Are you tired of cookie-cutter hotel rooms and generic accommodations? Look no further than Tennessee for an array of unique places to stay that will make your vacation truly memorable. From treehouses nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains to converted silos in the heart of Music City, the Volunteer State offers an impressive variety of one-of-a-kind lodging options. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most extraordinary and unique places to stay in Tennessee, ensuring your next trip is filled with charm, character, and unforgettable experiences.

Treehouse Retreats: Sleep Among the Canopy

Imagine waking up to the gentle rustling of leaves and birdsong, surrounded by the lush greenery of Tennessee’s forests. Treehouse accommodations offer just that, and they’re quickly becoming one of the most sought-after unique places to stay in Tennessee.

Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek Resort, Gatlinburg

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Treehouse Grove offers a luxurious treehouse experience. Each of the eight custom-designed treehouses features modern amenities while maintaining a rustic charm. With stunning views of the surrounding forest and easy access to Gatlinburg’s attractions, it’s the perfect blend of nature and comfort.

Treetop Hideaways, Chattanooga

Just minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Treetop Hideaways offers two distinct treehouse experiences. The “Elements” treehouse boasts a glass roof for stargazing, while the “Luna Loft” features a more rustic design with reclaimed materials. Both offer a unique way to experience the beauty of Lookout Mountain.

Converted Silos: Agricultural Charm Meets Modern Comfort

Tennessee’s agricultural heritage takes center stage in these repurposed grain silos, offering some of the most unique places to stay in Tennessee for those seeking a blend of history and comfort.

Silo Studios at Fall Creek Falls

Located near Fall Creek Falls State Park, these converted grain silos offer a cozy retreat with a twist. Each silo has been transformed into a two-story living space with all the amenities of home, including a kitchenette and a loft bedroom. The circular design and farm-inspired decor create a truly unique atmosphere.

The Silo at Evins Mill, Smithville

This former grain silo has been converted into a romantic getaway for two. With three levels connected by a spiral staircase, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and a charming, intimate space for couples seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.

Houseboats and Floating Cabins: Waterfront Living at Its Best

Tennessee’s numerous lakes and rivers provide the perfect setting for unique aquatic accommodations. These floating retreats offer a chance to wake up right on the water and enjoy stunning views from every angle.

Harbor Lights Marina Floating Cabins, Winchester

Situated on Tim’s Ford Lake, these floating cabins offer all the comforts of home with the added bonus of being directly on the water. Each cabin features a private deck, perfect for fishing or simply enjoying the sunset over the lake.

Houseboat Rentals on Dale Hollow Lake

For a truly immersive lake experience, rent a houseboat on Dale Hollow Lake. These floating homes come in various sizes and offer all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, plus the freedom to explore different parts of the lake each day.

Cave Dwellings: Underground Adventures

Tennessee’s geological wonders provide some of the most unique places to stay for the adventurous traveler. These subterranean accommodations offer a one-of-a-kind experience that combines natural beauty with modern comfort.

The Cavern Suite at Cumberland Caverns, McMinnville

Located 333 feet underground, the Cavern Suite at Cumberland Caverns offers a truly unique overnight experience. Guests can explore the extensive cave system during the day and then retire to a comfortable room nestled within the cave itself. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Tennessee’s underground wonders.

Sparta’s Big Bone Cave Cabin

While not technically inside a cave, this cabin is built into the side of a cliff near the entrance to Big Bone Cave. It offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and easy access to cave exploration, combining the comforts of a modern cabin with the thrill of cave proximity.

Historic Buildings: Stay in a Piece of Tennessee History

For history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, Tennessee offers a wealth of unique places to stay in beautifully restored historic buildings.

The Oliver Hotel, Knoxville

Originally built in 1876 as a bakery and candy factory, The Oliver Hotel has been lovingly restored to offer luxurious accommodations in the heart of downtown Knoxville. Each room is uniquely decorated, blending historic charm with modern amenities.

Union Station Hotel, Nashville

This former railroad terminal has been transformed into a stunning Autograph Collection hotel. The grand lobby, with its soaring stained-glass ceiling, sets the tone for a stay steeped in Nashville’s rich history.

Glamping Experiences: Luxury Meets the Great Outdoors

For those who want to experience nature without sacrificing comfort, glamping offers some of the most unique places to stay in Tennessee.

Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge

Nestled on 182 acres bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Under Canvas offers luxury safari-style tents with king-size beds, private bathrooms, and wood-burning stoves. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature without roughing it.

Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, Townsend

Offering a variety of glamping options, from tiny homes to luxury tents and even treehouses, Little Arrow provides a range of unique accommodations. Located near the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” it’s an ideal base for exploring the national park.

Quirky Themed Accommodations: Let Your Imagination Run Wild

Tennessee is home to some truly offbeat and unique places to stay that cater to specific interests or themes.

Big Cypress Lodge, Memphis

Located inside the iconic Memphis Pyramid, Big Cypress Lodge offers rustic-luxe accommodations with a hunting and fishing theme. Some rooms even feature balconies overlooking the massive indoor cypress swamp and aquarium.

Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel

Sleep in a converted Victorian train car at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel. These unique accommodations offer a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel while providing modern comforts.

Eco-Friendly Retreats: Sustainable Stays in Tennessee

For environmentally conscious travelers, Tennessee offers several unique places to stay that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

Butterfly Hollow Bed and Breakfast, Gordonsville

This secluded retreat focuses on sustainable living and minimal environmental impact. The main house and cabins are built with reclaimed materials and utilize solar power. It’s a peaceful escape that allows guests to reconnect with nature.

Dancing Bear Lodge, Townsend

Committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Smokies, Dancing Bear Lodge offers eco-friendly cabins and cottages. Their farm-to-table restaurant and extensive hiking trails make it a perfect base for nature lovers.

Music-Themed Accommodations: Sleep to the Beat of Tennessee

Given Tennessee’s rich musical heritage, it’s no surprise that some of the most unique places to stay in the state are inspired by its musical roots.

Graduate Nashville

This eclectic hotel pays homage to country music legend Dolly Parton with its over-the-top decor and pink hues. The rooftop bar, White Limozeen, is a particular highlight, offering stunning views of Nashville and creative cocktails.

Crash Pad, Chattanooga

While not strictly music-themed, this hostel-style accommodation often hosts live music events and attracts a creative crowd. It’s a great place to meet fellow travelers and experience Chattanooga’s vibrant arts scene.

Farm Stays: Experience Rural Tennessee Life

For a taste of country living, consider one of Tennessee’s many farm stays. These unique accommodations offer insight into the state’s agricultural heritage and often include hands-on experiences.

The Farm at Natchez Trace, Franklin

This working farm offers luxurious suites and the opportunity to interact with rescue animals. Guests can help with farm chores or simply relax in the peaceful countryside setting.

Blackberry Farm, Walland

While on the luxury end of farm stays, Blackberry Farm offers an unparalleled farm-to-table experience. Guests can participate in cooking classes, farm tours, and outdoor activities while enjoying world-class accommodations.

Riverside Retreats: Unique Places to Stay Along Tennessee’s Waterways

Tennessee’s rivers provide the backdrop for some truly unique lodging experiences, allowing guests to fall asleep to the sound of rushing water.

River’s Edge Treehouse Resort, Robbinsville

Perched along the Cheoah River, these luxury treehouses offer a perfect blend of nature and comfort. Each treehouse features a private deck overlooking the river, providing a serene setting for relaxation.

The Lodge at Buckberry Creek, Gatlinburg

While technically overlooking a creek rather than a river, this mountain lodge offers stunning water views and easy access to the streams of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Urban Oases: Unique Stays in Tennessee’s Cities

Even in Tennessee’s urban centers, you can find unique places to stay that offer a distinctive experience.

The Russell, Nashville

Housed in a former church, The Russell maintains many of its original architectural features, including stained glass windows. Its bright, eclectic decor and commitment to supporting local homeless outreach make it a unique and socially conscious choice.

River Inn of Harbor Town, Memphis

This small luxury hotel offers a European-style experience in the heart of Memphis. With its river views and gourmet dining options, it’s a unique urban retreat.

Luxury Cabins: Upscale Rustic Retreats

For those who want to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing luxury, Tennessee offers numerous high-end cabin rentals that provide unique and comfortable stays.

Gatlinburg Falls Resort

Offering a range of luxury cabins with amenities like private theaters, game rooms, and hot tubs, Gatlinburg Falls Resort provides a unique blend of mountain rustic and modern luxury.

Elk Springs Resort, Gatlinburg

Another option for luxury cabin rentals, Elk Springs Resort features properties with stunning mountain views, gourmet kitchens, and lavish amenities, making for a truly unique mountain getaway.

Seasonal Unique Stays: Experience Tennessee’s Changing Landscapes

Tennessee’s diverse geography and climate offer unique lodging experiences that change with the seasons. By choosing accommodations that highlight seasonal features, you can fully immerse yourself in the state’s natural beauty year-round.

Fall Foliage Viewing Cabins in the Smoky Mountains

As autumn paints the Smoky Mountains in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, several cabins offer prime viewing spots for leaf-peeping enthusiasts.

• Elk Springs Resort: Their luxury cabins feature floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the colorful mountainsides perfectly.
• Gatlinburg Falls Resort: Book a cabin with a wraparound deck to enjoy panoramic views of the autumn landscape.

Pro tip: Book your fall stay for mid-October to early November for peak foliage viewing.

Winter Ski Chalets near Ober Gatlinburg

When snow blankets the mountains, cozy up in a ski chalet for a unique winter getaway.

• Chalet Village: Offers a variety of ski-in/ski-out chalets with fireplaces and hot tubs, perfect for après-ski relaxation.
• Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park: Stay in on-site accommodations for easy access to slopes and winter activities.

Spring Wildflower Viewing Spots in Cherokee National Forest

As winter recedes, Tennessee’s forests burst into bloom. Experience this natural spectacle up close with these unique spring accommodations.

• Cherokee National Forest Cabins: Rustic cabins located near popular wildflower trails.
• Tellico Plains Mountain View Cabins: Offers panoramic views of flower-covered meadows.

Summer Lakeside Cottages for Water Activities

Tennessee’s lakes provide the perfect backdrop for summer fun. These unique lakeside stays allow you to make the most of the warm weather.

• Center Hill Lake Treehouse: A treehouse with lake access, perfect for swimming and boating.
• Norris Lake Houseboat Rentals: Spend your entire vacation on the water with a fully-equipped houseboat.

Pet-Friendly Unique Accommodations

For many, a vacation isn’t complete without their furry friends. These unique stays welcome both you and your pets.

Dog-Friendly Treehouses

• Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek Resort: Select treehouses welcome well-behaved dogs, allowing your pup to experience the canopy alongside you.
• Sulfur Ridge Treehouse: This luxury treehouse in Bloomington Springs not only welcomes dogs but provides pet amenities.

Cabins with Fenced Yards for Pets

• Brother’s Cove Log Cabin Resort: Offers pet-friendly cabins with secure outdoor areas where your dog can roam freely.
• Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort: Features a dedicated dog park on-site, perfect for exercising your four-legged friend.

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Farm Stays Where Pets Can Interact with Farm Animals

• The Farm at Natchez Trace: This pet-friendly farm stay allows your dog to experience farm life alongside you.
• Lucky Ladd Farms: Offers pet-friendly cottages where your dog can watch farm activities from a safe distance.

Pet-Friendly Houseboats

• Houseboat Rentals of America on Dale Hollow Lake: Select houseboats allow pets, giving your furry friend a unique aquatic adventure.

Remember to always check pet policies and any additional fees before booking. Many places require pets to be leashed in common areas and may have size or breed restrictions.

Accessibility-Focused Unique Stays

Tennessee offers several unique accommodations that prioritize accessibility, ensuring that travelers with disabilities can also enjoy extraordinary lodging experiences.

ADA-Compliant Treehouses

• Treetop Hideaways in Chattanooga: Their “Elements” treehouse is ADA-compliant, featuring a ramp entrance and accessible bathroom.
• Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek Resort: Offers an ADA-compliant treehouse with wider doorways and an accessible bathroom.

Accessible Cave Tours with Overnight Stays

• Cumberland Caverns: While the underground suite isn’t wheelchair accessible, they offer accessible above-ground accommodations and modified cave tours for those with limited mobility.

Wheelchair-Friendly Glamping Options

• Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains: Offers ADA-compliant safari-style tents with roll-in showers and accessible pathways.
• Little Arrow Outdoor Resort: Features wheelchair-accessible tiny homes and some accessible glamping tents.

When booking an accessible stay, it’s always best to contact the property directly to discuss your specific needs and ensure they can accommodate you comfortably.

Budget-Friendly Unique Stays

Unique doesn’t always mean expensive. Tennessee offers several distinctive lodging options that won’t break the bank.

Unique Hostels or Guesthouses

• The Russell in Nashville: This converted church offers bunk rooms at a fraction of the cost of their standard rooms, allowing budget travelers to experience its unique charm.
• Crash Pad in Chattanooga: This eco-friendly hostel offers both shared and private rooms at affordable rates.

Quirky Airbnb Rooms or Small Cabins

• The Cozy Cabin Retreat near Smoky Mountain National Park: A tiny, affordable cabin perfect for solo travelers or couples.
• The Art House in Memphis: Stay in a colorful, art-filled room in a unique communal living space.

State Park Accommodations with Unique Features

• Fall Creek Falls State Park: Offers affordable camper cabins with basic amenities in a stunning natural setting.
• Montgomery Bell State Park: Features an inn with reasonably priced rooms and access to park amenities.

Culinary-Focused Unique Stays

For food enthusiasts, these accommodations offer not just a place to sleep, but a feast for the senses.

Farm Stays with Cooking Classes

• Blackberry Farm in Walland: While on the luxury end, it offers an unparalleled farm-to-table experience with cooking demonstrations and classes.
• Evins Mill in Smithville: Offers culinary weekends featuring local chefs and cooking classes.

Bed and Breakfasts Known for Gourmet Breakfasts

• The Foundry on the Fair in Jackson: Serves a gourmet three-course breakfast featuring local ingredients.
• Hippensteal’s Mountain View Inn in Gatlinburg: Known for its elaborate homemade breakfasts with a view of the Smoky Mountains.

Accommodations with On-Site Distilleries or Breweries

• Commodore Hotel & Café in Linden: Features an on-site micro-distillery offering tours and tastings.
• The Tennessean Hotel in Knoxville: While not on-site, it’s adjacent to the Pretentious Beer Co., offering a unique “beercation” package.

Group-Friendly Unique Accommodations

Planning a reunion, wedding, or group retreat? These unique venues can accommodate larger parties while providing distinctive experiences.

Converted Barns for Family Reunions

• The Barn at Chestnut Springs in Sevierville: A beautifully renovated event barn with on-site lodging for up to 14 guests.
• Sampson’s Hollow in Walland: Offers a picturesque barn venue with multiple on-site cabins for group accommodation.

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Unique Wedding Venues with On-Site Accommodation

• Evins Mill in Smithville: A rustic-chic venue with waterfalls, on-site catering, and lodging for up to 44 guests.
• The Estate at Cherokee Dock in Lebanon: Country star Reba McEntire’s former estate, now a luxury event venue with lodging for up to 30 guests.

Large Treehouses or Connected Treehouses for Groups

• Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek Resort: While individual treehouses are designed for smaller groups, you can rent multiple adjacent treehouses for a unique group experience.
• Canopy Cove Treehouse in Chattanooga: A large treehouse that can sleep up to 10 guests, perfect for family gatherings.

Off-Grid and Remote Unique Stays

For those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature, Tennessee offers several off-grid and remote accommodations.

Solar-Powered Cabins in Remote Locations

• Sunset Rock Cabin near Cookeville: A solar-powered cabin on 50 private acres, offering a true off-grid experience.
• Eco-Friendly Cabin Retreat in Altamont: A secluded, solar-powered cabin surrounded by 40 acres of wilderness.

Primitive Camping Sites with Unique Natural Features

• Savage Gulf State Natural Area: Offers backcountry camping near stunning waterfalls and scenic overlooks.
• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Features primitive campsites near unique rock formations and natural arches.

Secluded Mountain Retreats without Wi-Fi or Cell Service

• LeConte Lodge in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Accessible only by hiking, this lodge offers a true digital detox experience.
• Charit Creek Lodge in Big South Fork: A rustic, off-grid lodge accessible by trail, offering a step back in time.

Remember, when staying in remote or off-grid locations, always inform someone of your plans and be prepared with necessary supplies and emergency equipment.

Conclusion: Embracing Tennessee’s Diverse Lodging Landscape

As we’ve explored, Tennessee offers an incredible array of unique places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and travel style. From treehouses and converted silos to underground suites and luxury farm stays, the Volunteer State proves that where you stay can be just as memorable as what you do on your vacation.

These unique accommodations not only provide comfort and amenities but also offer immersive experiences that connect you with Tennessee’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, you’re sure to find a one-of-a-kind lodging option that enhances your Tennessee experience.

So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Tennessee, consider stepping outside the traditional hotel box and opt for one of these unique places to stay. Your choice of accommodation might just become the highlight of your journey, providing stories and memories that will last a lifetime. From the misty mountains of East Tennessee to the mighty Mississippi in the west, unique adventures await in the land of Tennessee.

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