Knoxville, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – Two of East Tennessee’s most popular destinations are receiving national recognition for their autumn attractions.
Knoxville and Gatlinburg have been nominated in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards competition for Best Place to Visit in the Fall, placing them among 20 destinations across the country competing for a spot in the final top 10 rankings.
Gatlinburg officials say the nomination highlights the city’s reputation as one of the nation’s premier fall travel destinations. Nestled at the doorstep of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg attracts millions of visitors each year who come to experience vibrant fall colors, scenic mountain views and seasonal events.
City leaders say visitors can enjoy everything from scenic drives and hiking trails to local attractions, shopping, dining and special autumn celebrations throughout the season.
“Known for its stunning mountain scenery, vibrant fall foliage and abundance of seasonal experiences, Gatlinburg offers visitors countless ways to enjoy autumn in the Great Smoky Mountains,” city officials said in announcing the nomination.
Meanwhile, USA Today recognized Knoxville for its mix of seasonal activities, cultural events and outdoor recreation opportunities. The publication highlighted First Friday ArtWalks, Concerts on the Square, outdoor markets and annual community festivals that help make the city a popular destination during the fall months.
USA Today also noted that cooler temperatures and colorful autumn leaves provide ideal conditions for outdoor activities, including picnics in city parks, hiking adventures and cheering on local football and soccer teams.
The East Tennessee destinations are competing against a diverse field of nominees from across the country, including Aspen, Colorado; Boone, North Carolina; Greenville, South Carolina; Stowe, Vermont; San Francisco, California; Mackinac Island, Michigan; and Sleepy Hollow, New York.
Voting is open now and continues through September 7 at 11:59 a.m. The top 10 destinations will be announced on September 16. Voters may cast one vote per day per device throughout the voting period.
Gatlinburg has enjoyed strong success in the competition in recent years. The city was named the nation’s best fall destination in both 2023 and 2024 and finished fourth in the rankings last year.
Tourism officials hope the latest nomination will once again showcase East Tennessee’s appeal as a premier autumn getaway, drawing attention to the region’s fall foliage, outdoor recreation and seasonal attractions.
Residents and visitors can participate in the voting through the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards website: https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-place-to-visit-for-fall/.
