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25 May 2025
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10 Best Places for Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways in Tennessee

Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways in Tennessee: Trip Itinerary Overview

Discover the perfect escape for you and your four-legged friend with this dog-friendly tour of Tennessee’s best outdoor destinations. Start your journey in the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park where miles of scenic beauty and pet-friendly picnic areas await. Venture to Chattanooga Riverwalk for relaxing riverfront strolls and time in the city, followed by a historic wander through the natural pathways of Natchez Trace Parkway. In Nashville, let your pup roam the green expanse of Centennial Park or explore state history at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. If you crave more wilderness, unwind amid the waterfalls and dramatic landscapes of South Cumberland State Park and the serene hiking trails of Frozen Head State Park. Montgomery Bell State Park offers peaceful forests and lakes, perfect for energetic pups, while Shelby Farms Park in Memphis delights with one of the country’s largest urban off-leash areas. Don’t miss the Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, a surprising retreat brimming with nature trails and wetlands. Each destination on this itinerary is selected for dog owners seeking memorable, stress-free adventures where both you and your companion are welcome to explore and relax together. Prepare for a Tennessee journey rich in nature, history, and special moments shared with your canine companion.


Recommended Explorations

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    Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    This iconic park offers stunning mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and pet-friendly trails and picnic areas, making it perfect for scenic hikes and outdoor adventure with your dog.
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    Chattanooga Riverwalk

    This beautiful, paved riverside path stretches for miles along the Tennessee River, providing a relaxed setting for leisurely strolls, outdoor dining, and public art with your furry companion.
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    Nashville Centennial Park

    Centennial Park is a spacious, picturesque urban park featuring walking trails, open green spaces, and the iconic Parthenon replica, where dogs are welcome on-leash to explore and socialize.
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    Natchez Trace Parkway

    This scenic route offers tranquil drives, historic sites, and picturesque trails where you and your dog can enjoy nature walks and a peaceful escape from city life.
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    Shelby Farms Park, Memphis

    One of the largest urban parks in the country, Shelby Farms features expansive off-leash dog areas, miles of trails, lakes, and plenty of open space for energetic pups to explore and play.
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    Montgomery Bell State Park

    Surrounded by forested hills, this state park offers pet-friendly hiking trails, lakes for swimming, and cozy picnic areas, making it great for outdoor adventures with your dog.
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    Ijams Nature Center, Knoxville

    This beautiful nature center features pet-friendly trails, boardwalks, and river views, allowing you and your dog to explore woodlands, wetlands, and natural play areas just minutes from downtown Knoxville.
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    South Cumberland State Park

    Known for its rugged landscapes, waterfalls, and extensive hiking trails, this state park welcomes leashed dogs and provides an adventurous escape into Tennessee's natural beauty.
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    Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

    Located in Nashville's heart, this urban park showcases Tennessee history with open lawns, walking paths, and monuments, making it a great spot for leashed walks and sightseeing with your pup.
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    Frozen Head State Park

    This park offers a peaceful retreat with scenic mountain views, tranquil creeks, and pet-friendly hiking trails, making it ideal for nature lovers and their dogs seeking solitude and adventure.
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