8 Unique Places to Stay in Tennessee That Turn a Trip Into a Story

Tennessee isn’t just about country music and hot chicken—it’s also home to some of the most unforgettable places you can spend the night. From treehouses perched on mountainsides to cozy yurts near underground concert venues, these stays go way beyond your typical hotel room.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, luxury, or just something totally different, Tennessee has a spot that’ll make your trip feel like a real adventure worth talking about.

1. Big Cypress Lodge (Memphis)

Imagine sleeping inside a giant pyramid that towers over downtown Memphis. Big Cypress Lodge makes that dream a reality, offering rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the massive Bass Pro Shops retail space below.

The whole place feels like a wilderness retreat dropped into the middle of the city. Cypress trees, waterfalls, and taxidermy animals create an over-the-top hunting lodge vibe that’s equal parts quirky and impressive.

Rooms range from cozy standard accommodations to lavish suites with balconies. It’s a one-of-a-kind Memphis experience that blends nature, retail therapy, and serious bragging rights into one unforgettable stay.

2. Southall Farm & Inn (Franklin)

Picture waking up to the smell of fresh coffee and the sight of horses grazing in morning mist. Southall Farm & Inn delivers that slow-living fantasy on 325 acres of gorgeous Tennessee countryside just outside Franklin.

This isn’t your grandma’s farm stay—think spa-level luxury meets working farm authenticity. Guests can gather eggs from the chicken coop, take cooking classes using ingredients grown on-site, or simply lounge by the pool with a farm-to-table cocktail in hand.

The rooms are beautifully designed with modern farmhouse touches, and the on-site restaurant serves some of the best meals you’ll find in the region. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape or anyone craving a break from screens and city noise.

3. Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains (Pigeon Forge)

Camping meets comfort at Under Canvas, where safari-style tents come equipped with real beds, wood-burning stoves, and private bathrooms. You get all the magic of sleeping under the stars without sacrificing a good night’s rest.

Located just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s the perfect basecamp for hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring the most visited national park in America. Each tent sits on a raised platform with a private deck where you can sip your morning coffee while soaking in mountain views.

Evening s’mores around the communal fire pit bring guests together, creating that summer-camp feeling adults secretly miss.

4. LeConte Lodge (Gatlinburg)

Getting to LeConte Lodge requires commitment—there’s no road, no Wi-Fi, and no cell service. The only way up is a five-mile hike minimum, making it one of the most remote lodges in the eastern United States.

But that challenging trek rewards you with something truly special. Rustic cabins perch on the mountaintop at over 6,000 feet, offering breathtaking views and a total disconnect from modern life. Meals are served family-style in the dining hall, where hikers swap stories and refuel on hearty comfort food.

Reservations book up nearly a year in advance, so plan ahead if you want this bucket-list experience. It’s not fancy or luxurious—it’s authentic, old-school mountain hospitality that reminds you why people fell in love with these mountains generations ago.

5. Treetop Hideaways at Ruby Falls (Chattanooga)

Who says treehouses are just for kids? Treetop Hideaways proves that elevated accommodations can be both whimsical and seriously comfortable. These boutique treehouses sit at the base of Lookout Mountain, offering a front-row seat to Chattanooga’s natural beauty.

Each unit comes with full bathrooms, kitchenettes, and modern amenities. Large windows and wraparound decks let you feel immersed in the forest canopy while still enjoying comforts like air conditioning and Wi-Fi.

Ruby Falls’ famous underground waterfall is just steps away, making this spot perfect for adventure seekers who also appreciate a cozy retreat at day’s end.

6. Yurt Village at The Caverns (Pelham)

These aren’t your basic camping yurts. They feature comfortable beds, electricity, and heating or cooling depending on the season. The circular design creates a cozy, unique sleeping space that feels both adventurous and surprisingly homey.

Waking up on the property means you can explore the cave system during the day, catch an incredible acoustic show at night, and never worry about driving home. The whole experience combines Tennessee’s natural wonders with its rich musical heritage in a way that feels completely original and utterly Tennessee.

7. Ancient Lore Village (Knoxville)

Ever wanted to live inside a storybook? Ancient Lore Village makes that fantasy real with themed cottages straight out of fairy tales. Each cabin has its own unique design and character, transporting guests into a world of enchantment and imagination.

But the magic doesn’t stop at the accommodations. The property offers archery lessons, axe-throwing, and other medieval-inspired activities that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another era. Kids absolutely lose their minds over this place, but adults secretly love it just as much.

It’s quirky, it’s creative, and it’s unlike anything else in Tennessee. Whether you’re planning a family adventure or just want to embrace your inner child, Ancient Lore Village delivers an experience that’s equal parts playful and memorable.

8. The Silos at Promise Manor (Lynchburg)

Yes, you read that right—you can actually sleep inside a converted grain silo. The Silos at Promise Manor took old farm structures and transformed them into surprisingly stylish overnight accommodations named “Dolly” and “Duke” in true Tennessee fashion.

Don’t let the industrial exterior fool you. Inside, these circular spaces are cozy and well-appointed with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The unique architecture creates an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking something completely different.

Located in Lynchburg—home of Jack Daniel’s Distillery—it’s an ideal spot for whiskey enthusiasts exploring the area. The silos offer a conversation-starter stay that combines Tennessee’s agricultural heritage with hospitality. Your friends back home definitely won’t have a story quite like this one.