Take a unique trip through history at bed & breakfast establishments, hotels and restaurants in Tennessee. Dive into the stories behind 100-year-old B&B's, restaurants in converted blacksmith shops and hotels that have hosted presidents and celebrities throughout history. Curl up in these warm places and learn something new. Check out our list for where to explore.
Historic Places to Stay near Bristol, TN/VA
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What to expect when staying at Hale Springs Inn – Rogersville
Photo Credit: Designsensory/TN Tourism
- Historic Hale Springs Inn in Rogersville is a step back 200 years ago when you stay in one of their Book a room with a fireplace for a cozy night and marvel at the antiques that grace your room.
- Enjoy a self-guided history tour of Rogersville, Tennessee’s second oldest town. Take a winter stroll to see the Federal-style buildings, brick sidewalks and period lighting as well as the first post office in Tennessee and the first newspaper printed in the state.
- Notable town stops include Rogers Tavern, Historic Amis Mill and the Clay-Kenner House and the Courthouse.
- Make your way to McKinney’s Restaurant & Tavern, named in honor of Hale Springs Inn founder John McKinney, for food and drinks made with the freshest ingredients for lunch and dinner.
- Parking information: Free self-parking is available for guests.
- Room rate estimates: Prices range starting at around $127 per night
- Accessibility: Contact the hotel for specific accessibility details at 423-272-5171.
- Operation hours:
Front desk hours: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Sunday
McKinney's Restaurant located onsite hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday for lunch; Tuesday-Thursday 4:30-8 p.m. and 4:30-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday for dinner.
- Special highlights: The 9 beautiful rooms are named by historically important Tennesseans like President James K. Polk and Tennessee State Legislature Jacob Eastman Miller.
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Things to know before staying at Carnegie Hotel – Johnson City
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- Cozy up in the Carnegie Hotel & Spa, a boutique hotel in Johnson City.
- Award-winning dining including breakfast, dinner and brunch is served at Wellington’s.
- While in the area, book a guided fly fishing excursion, sip wine at Watauga Lake Winery and tour Worley’s Cave.
- Book the Enhance Your Romance package for a relaxing couple’s getaway that includes a 1-hour couples massage, overnight stay and dinner for two.
- Parking information: Complimentary parking is available on hotel lot. There's an option for covered garage parking, located directly behind the property.
- Estimate of room rates: Rates are around $152 per night
- Accessibility: Service animals are welcome. Accessible King and Queen guest rooms include mobility and hearing accessible features, 32" door width, closed captioning on all guest room televisions, accessible shower with grab bars, roll-in shower, portable tub seats, and braille detail on the door. All accessible rooms offer main-level entry. ADA pool chair lift, visual and audible fire alarms, accessible routes available throughout the property.
- Operation hours: The front desk, fitness center and business center are open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
- Austin Springs Spa & Salon is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1-7 p.m. Sunday.
- Wellington's is open for breakfast 7-11 a.m. Monday-Friday and for brunch 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; for dinner 5-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; and the Bar hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, 5-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 3-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
- Special highlights: The full-service Austin Springs Spa & Salon eases stress away with massages, hydro therapy, acupuncture and body wraps, facials, pedicures and more.
Historic Stops near the Smokies
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Things to know before staying at The Oliver Hotel - Knoxville
- Located in a 1876 building, The Oliver Hotel is one of Knoxville’s downtown gems.
- The hotel celebrates its rich history by preserving the building’s unique architecture, charm and elegance.
- Enjoy modern luxuries in a room or suite featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, views of downtown Knoxville and freshly ground, locally roasted coffee in-room.
- Parking information: Self-parking is available at Market Square Garage. Valet parking is available for $35 per night, per vehicle.
- Accessibility: Most rooms are handicap accessible and have handicap-accessible showers. Limited availability of the rooms, so please call the front desk at 865-521-0050 ahead of time. Accessible features include an accessible concierge desk, exercise facility, hotel restaurant, public entrance, registration desk, accessible routes throughout the hotel, strobe alarms, service support animals are welcome, Braille elevator, audible alerts in elevator, bathroom doors at least 32" wide.
- Estimate of room rates: Room rates range from $200-400 depending on the season, room type and demand.
- Operation hours: The front desk is open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
- Special highlights: Warm up with a drink in the speakeasy, Peter Kern Library featuring rows of books, cocktails named after literary characters and a fireplace that create a cozy atmosphere.
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What to expect when staying at RT Lodge – Maryville
Photo Credit: @rtldemonstrations
- Tuck away into the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains with a modernly rustic getaway at RT Lodge in Maryville.
- Retreat to this luxurious lodge that is furnished with country-house comfort and elegance. Complimentary breakfast is included in your stay.
- Enjoy a peaceful sleep in a king-sized bed topped with a cozy comforter and luxury linens.
- After dinner, sip a coffee and make complimentary s’mores around the fire pit.
- Parking information: Free parking onsite is available.
- Estimate of room rates: Nightly rates start at approximately $249.
- Accessibility: Porch and balcony rooms are ADA accessible. For additional accessibility details, please contact the hotel at 865-981-9800.
- Operation hours: The Morningside Room is open 3-11 p.m. Monday-Saturday and The Restaurant at RT Lodge is open 5-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 5-9:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Reservations are required for The Restaurant at RT Lodge. The Carriage House Spa is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
- Special highlights: Don’t miss The Restaurant at RT Lodge where everything from the bread to the pimento cheese and pickles are made in-house. You’ll enjoy the freshest ingredients sourced from local farms in dishes that change daily based upon availability of local, seasonal ingredients.
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Things to know before visiting Ruby Falls Castle - Chattanooga
- Make memories around the table surrounded by Chattanooga history and the beauty of Lookout Mountain.
- Inside Ruby Falls Castle, you’ll find the Castle Café, a cozy place to hangout during the winter, that offers a seasonal menu.
- Savor veggie flatbread, smoked beef brisket chili, sourdough grilled cheese and jumbo cinnamon pretzels.
- The castle’s fireplace is the perfect place to enjoy a local craft beer, locally roasted coffee or a signature hot cocoa.
- Parking information: Dedicated parking is available at Ruby Falls.
Ticket prices: Standard tickets are typically around $29 with children under 3 free. Treetop obstacle course and zipline is a separate ticket which is usually around $22.
- Operation Hours: Ruby Falls is open 8am to 8pm year-round.
- Accessibility: The visitor center, restrooms and main observation deck are generally accessible.
- Special highlights: Built in 1929, Ruby Falls Castle is on the National Registry of Historic Places for its transformational impact on early tourism in the region.
Historic Hotels in the Nashville Area
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Things to know before staying at Hermitage Hotel – Nashville
- Since 1910, The Hermitage Hotel has stood as a beacon of luxury and historic preservation in the heart of Nashville’s downtown.
- The 5-star hotel has been a witness to more than 100 years of history and has hosted millions of guests, including celebrities.
- Book your stay to enjoy oversized rooms, luxurious amenities and marble bathrooms.
- Parking information: Valet parking is offered at $58 + tax per night. Self-parking lots are located nearby for various overnight rates.
- Accessibility: Accessible Queen room and an Accessible king room are available to book. For more accessibility details, please call the hotel at 615-244-3121.
- Estimate of room rates: Room rates range from approximately $320.
- Operation hours: The front desk is open 24/7.
Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges: 7-11 a.m. breakfast, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. lunch, 5-10 p.m. dinner Monday-Friday; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. brunch, 5-10 p.m. dinner Saturday-Sunday. The Bar is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. with food service 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11-1 a.m. and food service is available 11 a.m. to midnight Friday-Saturday.
The Pink Hermit: Open daily 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Breakfast is 6-11 a.m. and all-day dining is 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Special highlights: Planning a girl’s getaway? Celebrate friendship with the Girls Getaway Package that includes luxe matching Draper James pajamas for each guest, daily breakfast, a tea experience and accommodations.
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What to expect when staying at The Union Station – Nashville
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- The Union Station Nashville Yards has 125 renovated guest rooms and suites
- Hotel features a design inspired by railway travel with details like high ceilings and architectural elements inspired by Pullman cars, antique burnished brass, art-deco styles and leather belting throughout.
- Enjoy exceptional dining, live music, a state-of-the-art fitness center, in-room streaming and Nespresso makers.
- Parking information: Valet parking is available for $59 per night, per vehicle. Oversized parking is $75 per day and extra-large vehicle parking is $118 per day.
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms with accessibility features are available to be booked online. For more accessibility features and details, contact the hotel at 615-726-1001.
- Estimate of room rates: Room rates range $230 to over $500 by seasonality, availability and room type.
- Operation hours: Hotel access is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Stationary Restaurant: Open daily. 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. for brunch and 5-10 p.m. for dinner.
The Bar Car: Open daily.
Alligator Bar: Open daily.
- Special highlights: Cocktail classes and whiskey tastings are available at The Whiskey Room, the semi-hidden space inside the historic Grand Lobby.
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What to expect when staying at Commodore Hotel & Café – Linden
Photo Credit: Designsensory/TN Tourism
- The Historic Commodore Hotel was built in 1939.
- An historic hotel near Nashville, located in Linden, Tennessee about 88 miles from Nashville.
- Slow down and relax in this historic, boutique hotel with 22 rooms featuring different amenities such as jacuzzi tubs, kitchenettes, king beds and views of the quaint Main Street.
- Step outside to explore downtown Linden. You’ll find Main Street Marketplace full of handmade soaps, textiles, jewelry and more as well as the Buffalo River Artists Cooperative featuring arts and crafts from local artists.
- Parking information: The parking lot is located behind the hotel. Call in advance to make a request. Covered parking is based on availability.
- Accessibility: Call the hotel at 931-589-3224 for accessibility details.
- Estimate of room rates: Rates range $69-159 per night.
- Operation hours: The hotel is open 24/7.
Music Cafe: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 5-9 p.m. Friday. The cafe is closed Dec. 8-Jan. 31.
- Special highlights: Enjoy live music and incredible food for lunch and dinner at the Commodore Music Café during your stay. Live music occurs every weekend featuring a variety of music styles like country, blues and rock.
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Things to know before staying at Falcon Manor: B&B at Falcon Rest – McMinnville
- Have a lovely stay at Falcon Manor Bed & Breakfast at Falcon Rest.
- Marvel at the timeless architecture and antiques that fill the guest suites.
- Enjoy acres of gardens onsite and outdoor adventure at nearby Cumberland Caverns and Rock Island State Park.
- Shop for 1800s treasures in the Victorian Gift Shop.
- Take a guided tour of Falcon Rest Mansion where you’ll hear stories of the Faulkner family and 1890s life.
- Parking information: Free, onsite parking is available.
- Accessibility: The Carriage House Room is on the ground level and wheelchair accessible. Other rooms are on the first floor up a few steps.
- Estimate of room rates: Room rates vary from $105 to $265 for the entire General Manager's Cottage.
- Operation hours: 24-hour reception
- Special highlights: Falcon Manor Bed & Breakfast at Falcon Rest has been lauded by PBS as “Tennessee’s Biltmore."
Cozy Historic Places in Memphis
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What to expect when staying at Central Station Hotel
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- The Central Station has been a pillar of South Main Street in Memphis for over 100 years.
- Now, it’s a boutique hotel that celebrates its history and connects you to Memphis’ dynamic neighborhoods.
- 123 spacious king or double queen guest rooms have custom artwork, plush bedding, oversized windows, WiFi and a daily curated playlist on custom-designed EgglestonWorks speakers.
- Parking information: Ample, self-parking is available onsite for a fee.
- Accessibility: A variety of accessible rooms are available with features such as a roll-in shower, accessible tubs and rooms for the hearing impaired. The lobby is also accessible. Elevators are available.
- Estimate of room rates: Room rates start at approximately $150+.
- Operation hours: The hotel is open 24/7.
Eight & Sand: 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. daily for breakfast; 4-10 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday and 4-11 p.m. Thursday-Friday for dinner
- Special highlights: Enjoy the Memphis-inspired vinyl record collection in the listening lounge bar and delicious cocktails at Eight & Sand.
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The Peabody Memphis
- The Peabody Memphis is known as the “South’s Grand Hotel,” originally opened in 1869. The Memphis icon is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is world-famous for its luxury service.
- Opulent designs, décor and furniture are found in the stylish guestrooms with luxury amenities that have earned the hotel a AAA Four-Diamond rating.
- Luxury dining experiences await at Chez Philippe, where you can also enjoy afternoon tea and weekend brunch.
- Parking information: Valet parking is $37+ per night and self-parking is $28+ per night.
- Accessibility: Enjoy accessible public spaces, accessible bathrooms, ADA pool chair lift, elevator to guest room floors and more. Service animals are welcome. The 10 accessible guest rooms include braille detail on door signs, rquired maneuvering clearances, portable tub seats, accessible shelving and hanging bars.
- Estimate of room rates: Rooms and suites start at $199/night
- Operation hours: The front desk is 24/7.
Deli & Desserts: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
The Lobby Bar: 10 a.m. to midnight Sunday-Thursday; 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday-Saturday
The Corner Bar: Open daily 4-11 p.m. Happy Hour is 4-7 p.m. daily. Live piano music is 4-7 p.m. Friday-Saturday
Chez Philippe: 5:30-10 p.m. Thursday-Sunday for dinner; Noon to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday for Afternoon Tea
Capriccio Grill: 7-11 a.m. daily for breakfast; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday for lunch; 3-5 p.m. for late lunch; 5-10 p.m. daily for dinner; and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday for weekend brunch
- Special highlights: The unique, famous hotel in Memphis is also known for its five Mallard ducks that march through the lobby daily at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
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Things to know before staying at The James Lee House
Photo Credit: Tennessee Tourism / Josh Ness
- Internationally acclaimed boutique bed and breakfast, The James Lee House is a stunning 175-year-old Victorian home located in the heart of Memphis.
- You’ll love the hand-painted frescoes, five beautiful guest suites, antiques and heritage rich of art, music and literature.
- The suites feature large bathrooms, luxury amenities, queen and king-sized Tempur-Choice Luxe beds, in-room coffee and WiFi and gourmet breakfast daily.
- Parking information: All overnight guests have access to the private, gated parking lot. For access, text the hotel when you arrive at 901-549-0513.
- Accessibility: The James Lee House does not have an elevator. The Crosley suite is located on the first floor, reachable by stairs or ramp.
- Estimate of room rates: Room rates vary by seasonality, special event rates and availability, but usually range $275-450 per night.
- Operation hours: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Special highlights: Breakfast is a 3-course treat available in the airy Breakfast Room. Guided tours are available.
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Things to know before visiting Amelia Gene’s
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- Housed in the historic 1879 William C. Ellis & Sons Ironworks and Machine Shop, Amelia Gene’s is a fine dining restaurant serving globally inspired, contemporary dishes.
- Enjoy pasta dishes, short rib, filet mignon, triple chocolate layer Matilda cake, pumpkin spice crème brulee and an unforgettable cheese cart.
- Signature cocktails flow and the atmosphere is enhanced with the reclaimed antiques, a commissioned glass art installation, and the original building’s machinery integrated into the design.
- Parking information: Complimentary valet is available at the door.
- Accessibility: The historic restaurant is ADA accessible.
- Operation hours: 4:30-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 4:30-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday.
- Special highlights: Treat yourself to the Tasting Menu from Chef Nate Henssler featuring locally sourced seasonal ingredients Thursday nights.
