Romantic Weekend Getaways in Tennessee
Whether you’re craving peaceful woodlands, luxurious lodges, small-town charm, or soulful nights in a vibrant city, Tennessee offers a wealth of options. What makes it special is how the natural beauty (smoky ridges, rolling hills, river valleys) pairs with hospitality, cozy inns, great food, and moments that feel made to remember.
Where you stay sets the tone: maybe a cabin tucked high in the Smokies, a boutique hotel downtown with live music close by, a resort surrounded by forest or river, or a bed & breakfast in a historic small town. Here are some of the most unique romantic escapes in Tennessee I found during my four weeks there that I think you’ll love for your next weekend away with someone special.
1. Sewanee Inn
This is a peaceful and romantic Southern highland escape! I love how Sewanee has preserved its collegiate-Gothic charm and natural beauty by centering life around the University of the South’s historic campus, its cultural traditions, and its rolling Cumberland Plateau landscape rather than leaning into overdevelopment.
Located about 90 minutes from Nashville, Sewanee is known for its stately stone architecture, wooded trails, and sweeping overlooks of the Tennessee valley.
The Sewanee Inn is set right on the edge of the university’s golf course. The inn blends a warm Southern welcome with a polished, elegant style. My room for two days was airy and refined with a balcony overlooking the rolling greens. The inn has a cozy lounge and inviting common spaces.
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From sipping coffee on the porch, to wandering along the nearby Perimeter Trail, The Sewanee Inn creates a uniquely romantic retreat. Waking up in the quiet stillness of the Plateau, surrounded by beauty and tradition, was truly unforgettable.
2. The Hotel Chalet - 2 hours
Nestled inside the historic Terminal Station, The Hotel Chalet felt like stepping into a love story from another century, complete with vintage rail cars turned into suites.
We drove about 2 hours southeast from Nashville to Chattanooga. Set on the Tennessee River and surrounded by mountains, the city blends Civil War history with a revitalized downtown. I love how Chattanooga has transformed its historic rail heritage into something modern and inviting that completely won me over.
Set at the foot of Lookout Mountain in the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo Terminal, The Hotel Chalet combines vintage charm with a contemporary boutique feel. Staying here feels like stepping into a story—where the golden age of train travel. The property features beautifully restored railcars you can actually sleep in, which adds a truly unique and nostalgic touch. I thought the balance of history and romance here was wonderful, that's why I consider it one of the best romantic weekend getaways in Tennessee.
I loved being close to so much that Chattanooga has to offer, including Lookout Mountain, the Ruby Falls, Coolidge Park on the riverfront, Valley Railroad Museum, and the Bessie Smith Cultural Center.
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Waking up with the soft light filtering through the windows, surrounded by echoes of the past, makes The Hotel Chalet a getaway that’s both memorable and deeply atmospheric.
3. Eagles Ridge Resort - 3 hours 30 minutes
This is a cozy and romantic Smoky Mountain cabin escape! I love how Eagles Ridge Resort captures the spirit of the mountains by emphasizing natural beauty, privacy, and rustic charm rather than crowding guests into a commercialized setting.
Just minutes from the excitement of Pigeon Forge, yet tucked into a peaceful wooded setting, Eagles Ridge offers the best of both worlds. You’re close to Dollywood, theaters, and restaurants, but as soon as you retreat to your cabin, you’re surrounded by tall trees, quiet evenings, and that unmistakable mountain stillness.
My cabin for two days at Eagles Ridge Resort was spacious, welcoming, and designed with comfort in mind. Many cabins have hot tubs, stone fireplaces, game rooms, and wide porches for rocking chairs or morning coffee.
I enjoyed exploring Pigeon Forge attractions such as the Dollywood theme park, historic Old Mill Square, Parrot Mountain, and Dolly Parton's Stampede.
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I love that each cabin has its own character, but all share a sense of seclusion and warmth that makes it feel like a true home in the mountains.
The balance of accessibility and seclusion makes Eagles Ridge Resort a truly unforgettable retreat in the Smokies.
4. The Peabody Memphis
The Peabody Memphis completely won me over with its timeless Southern charm and historic character. From the moment I walked into the grand lobby with its soaring ceilings and ornate details, I felt like I had stepped into a piece of living history.
We drove about 3 hours west from Nashville to Memphis. Sitting on the Mississippi River, Memphis is steeped in history and soul. We toured Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home, walked down Beale Street where blues still spill from neon-lit clubs, and visited the National Civil Rights Museum.
What makes the hotel so unusual and memorable is the famous Peabody Ducks. I joined the crowd in the lobby to watch their daily march to the fountain, and it was such a joyful tradition that brought everyone together in smiles and laughter. It’s one of those experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else.
My room was elegant and comfortable, with plush bedding, classic decor, and modern touches that made my stay relaxing. I loved waking up to city views and feeling connected to both the historic and lively side of Memphis.
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We visited on Thanksgiving once and tried the famous Thanksgiving Brunch at The Peabody.
5. Dancing Bear Lodge
This is a rustic and romantic Smoky Mountain hideaway and one of the best romantic weekend getaways in Tennessee! Why? I love how Dancing Bear Lodge captures the quiet beauty of Townsend (“the peaceful side of the Smokies”) by focusing on nature, farm-to-table dining, and authentic Appalachian warmth rather than the bustle of more commercialized mountain towns.
Just outside the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dancing Bear feels like a retreat into the woods. The property is spread across rolling hills and forest, offering both seclusion and easy access to hiking, cycling, and scenic drives along the Foothills Parkway. Townsend’s slower pace makes it an ideal base for a truly restorative getaway.
I thought that staying at Dancing Bear Lodge was absolutely enchanting. The cabins and villas blend rustic log charm with upscale touches—stone fireplaces, cozy porches, and luxurious soaking tubs. Each space feels private and serene, with woodland views that shift beautifully from dawn to dusk. And the on-site Appalachian Bistro elevates the experience with locally inspired, gourmet meals.
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- Check prices at 3-star Dancing Bear Lodge
My favorite feature has to be the harmony between comfort and wilderness. Dancing Bear Lodge creates a uniquely romantic mountain retreat. Waking up in such a tranquil, wooded setting makes it feel like the Smokies are all your own.
6. The Read House - 2 hours
I love how The Read House has embraced its storied past and roaring-20s elegance, preserving its historic character while layering in modern luxury, instead of becoming just another contemporary downtown hotel.
Located in the heart of Chattanooga, The Read House is a landmark of Southern hospitality and Jazz Age charm. Staying here feels like stepping into a more glamorous era, with all the convenience of today.
My room for two days was richly appointed, balancing modern comfort with historic touches, and the lobby alone is worth the visit—dramatic, atmospheric, and alive with history. The on-site Bridgeman’s Chophouse is refined yet cozy, perfect for a romantic dinner before a nightcap in the hotel’s stylish bar. For those who love a touch of mystery, the famously haunted Room 311 adds a playful and intriguing edge to the experience.
My favorite feature has to be the way the hotel makes you feel transported. From sipping cocktails in a velvet-lined lounge to walking under glittering chandeliers, The Read House creates a sense of romance, glamour, and timelessness. Waking up here feels like waking up in a living piece of Chattanooga’s history.
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7. The Chattanoogan, a Weekend Getaway - 2 hours from Nashville, TN
The 4-star Chattanoogan Hotel gave me the perfect mix of modern comfort and mountain spirit right in the heart of Chattanooga. From the moment I walked in, I noticed its sleek yet welcoming design, with warm wood tones and large windows that framed the surrounding city and hills beautifully.
My room for two days was spacious and thoughtfully designed, with a cozy bed, modern furnishings, and a spa-inspired bathroom that made it easy to relax after a day out exploring. I especially loved waking up to the morning light streaming through the windows—it felt refreshing and peaceful.
Dining was another highlight. The on-site restaurant offered locally inspired dishes that were flavorful and comforting, and I found myself lingering over breakfast just to soak in the inviting atmosphere. It was a joyful way to start the day.
The spa and wellness amenities made my stay even more special. From the relaxing treatments to the fitness facilities, I felt both pampered and recharged. It’s the kind of detail that turns a simple hotel visit into a full experience.
- Location: Map & Directions
- Check prices at The Chattanoogan
Conclusion
From candlelit dinners to misty mountain mornings, Tennessee has a way of turning ordinary weekends into meaningful memories. Each of these destinations brought us closer in a different way, through laughter, stillness, and the simple joy of discovering a place together. If you're looking for a romantic retreat that feels both grounded and magical, Tennessee is waiting with open arms.
My personal highlights:
What I love most is how Tennessee gives couples the best of everything, Nashville’s music scene, Memphis’s soulful energy, the unique beauty of Chattanooga, and the underrated charm of Smoky Mountain cabins. Each feels special and has quickly become one of my favorite romantic getaway experiences.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
