A Family Road Trip to Tennessee: BBQ, Music, and Unforgettable Memories

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In 2023, my family and I embarked on an epic 16-hour road trip to Tennessee. From mouthwatering BBQ to legendary music history, our journey took us through Memphis and Nashville, two of the state’s most iconic cities. If you!re planning your own Tennessee adventure, buckle up because this trip was packed with incredible sights, delicious eats, and unforgettable experiences!

First Stop: Memphis - Tribute to the King and BBQ Bliss

After a long drive, we finally arrived in Memphis and went straight to one of its most famous landmarks Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis Presley. Touring the estate felt like stepping back in time. We saw the famous white living room, beautiful portraits of the King, and even the tombs of Elvis and his family. Graceland is a must-visit for any music lover, as it offers a deep dive into the life and career of one of the most influential artists in history. Fun fact: Graceland is the second most-visited home in the U.S., right after the White House!

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After soaking in all things Elvis, we had worked up quite the appetite. Our next stop? The Bar-B-Q Shop, where we indulged in a feast fit for royalty. From BBQ spaghetti to ribs and chicken, we devoured every delicious bite. Memphis is known for its slow-smoked, dry-rubbed BBQ, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

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Before leaving the city, we drove around to take in the sights. One of the coolest things we spotted was a bicycle archway, which (if I remember correctly) leads to the Memphis Zoo. Memphis truly has an amazing mix of culture, music, and food, but it was time to hit the road again.

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Nashville’s Music, Murals, and More Mouthwatering Eats

That same evening, we made our way to Nashville for some quality family time. The next morning, we started our day at Sun Diner, where I had the most incredible crème brûlée French Toast. (Yes, it was as good as it sounds!) With full stomachs, we walked the famous Broadway strip, where live music spilled out of every honky-tonk and restaurant. It’s impossible not to get caught up in the energy of Nashville. This city breathes music!

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While exploring, we made a stop at Honky Tonk Central, a popular multi-level bar with fantastic live performances. Here, we grabbed a classic Nashville pulled pork sandwich. Whether you’re a country music fan or not, this city will make you fall in love with its vibrant atmosphere.

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Next, we hopped on a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, a great way to see all the major sights without having to navigate on our own. Some of our favorite stops included:

  • The “What Lifts You” Mural- a perfect spot for that Instagram-worthy photo!

  • The Parthenon- A full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon, right in the heart of Nashville’s Centennial Park.

  • Other hidden gems around the city that made us appreciate the mix of history and modern charm.

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Before wrapping up our Nashville adventure, we made a stop at the Goo Goo Cluster Shop, home of the first-ever combination candy bar! Established in 1912, Goo Goo Clusters are a delicious mix of caramel, marshmallow nougat, fresh-roasted peanuts, and milk chocolate. Not only did we get to sample these sweet treats, but we also took a cluster-making class, where we created our own custom chocolate clusters such a fun and tasty experience!

To end the day, we treated ourselves to two must-haves: Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and a scoop of Banana Cream Pie Ice Cream. Trust me, you haven’t fully experienced Nashville until you’ve had its famous hot chicken. crispy, spicy, and oh-so-good!

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Tips for Your Tennessee Trip

If you’re planning your own adventure to Memphis and Nashville, here are a few tips to make your trip even better:

1. Bring Extra Cash for Cowboy Boots. Broadway is lined with boot shops, and trust me, you’ll want to grab a pair to take home!

2. Take a Class at the Goo Goo Cluster Shop. Not only do you get to indulge in this famous Tennessee treat, but you can also make your own custom chocolate clusters.

3. Come on an Empty Stomach. Tennessee is a food lover’s paradise, and you’ll want to try it all!

Tennessee is a state full of history, flavor, and music, making it the perfect destination for a road trip. Whether you’re walking through the halls of Graceland, enjoying live tunes on Broadway, or indulging in world-famous BBQ, there’s something for everyone to love.

Dont forget about Dollywood! That’s for the next trip.