Tennessee Overview

Tennessee sits at the crossroads of the Upper South and the Appalachian highlands, stretching from the Mississippi River lowlands in the west to mountain ridges along the eastern border. The state is commonly discussed through its three Grand Divisions—West, Middle, and East Tennessee—each with distinct geography, settlement history, and economic profile. Major metros anchor each division, while smaller county seats and river towns contribute a strong sense of local identity.

Economy

The statewide economy is broad-based, pairing manufacturing and distribution with fast-growing services. Automotive and advanced manufacturing clusters are supported by interstate corridors and supplier networks, while healthcare, higher education, and professional services play major roles in the largest metros. Agriculture remains important in rural counties, and the visitor economy is significant, driven by music tourism, national parks, outdoor recreation, and convention travel. Energy and infrastructure—shaped in part by the Tennessee Valley Authority’s long influence—also affect industrial siting and electricity reliability. In many communities, small business, local government, and education are meaningful employers that stabilize local spending between tourism seasons.

Education

Higher education includes large public research universities, regional campuses, and private institutions that serve both traditional students and adult learners. Technical and community colleges provide workforce-aligned credentials in skilled trades, healthcare, information technology, and manufacturing technologies. Across many districts, career-and-technical education, apprenticeships, and dual enrollment help connect K–12 students to postsecondary pathways and employer demand.

Culture

Tennessee’s culture is internationally associated with music—especially country, blues, rock, and gospel—supported by venues, studios, and festivals across the state. Food traditions reflect both Southern and Appalachian influences, with barbecue styles, regional diners, and farm-to-table programs that highlight local ingredients. Museums, historic sites, and civil rights landmarks interpret a complex history that continues to shape civic life. Distinct regional identities—Delta-influenced West Tennessee, Nashville’s creative industries, and East Tennessee’s mountain traditions—are visible in dialect, crafts, and festival programming.

Travel and Entertainment

Travel experiences range from Great Smoky Mountains hiking and scenic drives to riverfront districts and music-focused city breaks. Visitors can plan itineraries around national parks, lakes, and state parks, then add urban attractions such as live performance, sports, museums, and culinary districts. Seasonal events and festival calendars create repeat-visit appeal, while well-connected highways make multi-stop road trips practical.