If the fact that it is June was not enough to signal that summer is here, the heat has certainly arrived! Hot summer days means finding ways to cool off and have fun with the family is a priority – visits to the beach, lake, pool or water parks; afternoon hikes; ice cream and popsicles shared with friends. After spending the summer of 2020 at home, everyone is understandably excited to have fun in the summer of 2021. Are you planning an epic family road trip?
Here are some great ideas for road trips all around Tennessee. With locations scattered across Tennessee, our technicians are never too far away.
- Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
On your visit to Chickamauga and Chattanooga, you will learn about the key players in 1863 when the Union and Confederate forces fought for control of the “Gateway to the Deep South.”
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Covering the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, you’re sure to love the Great Smoky Mountains diversity of plant and animal life during hikes. Cades Cove is a must-see – whether you ride through in your car or on your bike, black bears are almost guaranteed to make an appearance. Campsites are available and always lots of fun. We also recommend checking out some of the beautiful waterfalls in the park such as Grotto, Laurel, Abrams, and Rainbow Falls.
- Natchez Scenic Trail
Made up of five sections, you can either hike along the over 60 miles of hiking trails or drive the 444-mile long Natchez Trace Parkway. If you go on foot, you’ll have the chance to explore swamps, wetlands, forests, overlooks, and rock outcroppings.
- Shiloh National Military Park
A visit to Shiloh will allow you to relive history on the Shiloh and Corinth battlefields where over 100,000 American troops fought. You’ll also be able to visit Shiloh Indian Mounds National Historic Landmark and a national cemetery.
- Nashville – Music City
Nashville has countless activities for every age but some of the most popular attractions include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Grand Ole Opry, the Parthenon, Cumberland Park, Music Row, and the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory.
- Oaklands Mansion
A historic plantation home and museum in Murfreesboro, TN, Oaklands Mansion is known for its Italianate design. During the Civil War, officers from both sides stayed in the mansion – even Confederate President Jefferson Davis.
Tennessee is also home to several theme parks and water parks including Adrenaline Park (Sevierville), Dollywood and Splash Country (Pigeon Forge), Lake Winne and Soakya Water Park (Chattanooga), and SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland (Nashville).
Is your car road-ready?
It’s time to get your car in the best possible shape before you hit the road. Here are some reminders of things to check on your vehicle as you get ready for your road trip this summer.
- Brakes
- Tire treads & pressure
- Tire balancing and rotation
- Condition of your spare tire
- Oil
- Headlights & rear lights
- Air conditioner
- Windshield
- Windshield wipers
You’ll also want to pack a phone charger, roadside emergency kit, a first aid kit, and jumper cables in case you run into any trouble on the road. If road debris causes any chips or cracks on your windshield, call Auto Glass Service right away – we’ll make our way to you to give you the best service possible.
