Whether you’re a Tennessee native or planning a visit to the Volunteer State, you can find a number of interesting and unusual places to visit. Some of the spots offer unique insights into the history of the state.
The Minister’s Treehouse
The world’s largest treehouse is located in the state of Tennessee, and it’s worth seeing. The owner of the Minster’s Tree House, Horace Burgess, believes that he was divinely inspired to construct it. It’s incredibly massive, featuring 10 stories that are supported by six large oak trees. Since construction began, the treehouse has used more than 250,000 nails to support it and keep it up in the trees.
The estimated building cost was around $12,000, according to the owner, and it took 14 years to complete. Visitors used to be able to tour it, but the local fire marshals closed down this option in 2012 due to the potential fire risk.
Elliston Place Soda Shop
Elliston Place Soda Shop is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in its original location within the city of Nashville. It’s extremely popular among both locals and visitors, offering a charming atmosphere and tasty menu options. It originally opened in 1939 as part of a drug store, although the drug store side closed in 1965. Elliston Place still serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with sweet soda fountain-style treats. Daily specials are available, with options like roast turkey and dressing, fried catfish, and chicken and dumplings. You can also enjoy sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, salads, soups, and other tasty choices.
Hermitage Hotel Men’s Bathroom
For a unique experience, pay a visit to the Hermitage Hotel men’s bathroom. The historic hotel is on 6th Avenue North in Nashville, and the bathroom has actually won awards for its design and elements. When the hotel opened in 1910, it showcased a wide range of period flourishes, including the art deco-inspired men’s restroom that is just off the expansive lobby.
Men and women are welcome to step inside, where they can view the gleaming black and lime green glass tiles, terrazzo flooring, and complementary lime green fixtures. When you walk into the lobby, turn right and head down the stairs to the restaurant. You’ll see the award-winning restroom just off the hallway.
Timothy Demonbreun’s Cave
One of the state’s early residents was Timothy Demonbreun, a fur trapper who came from a line of French Canadian nobles. He left his titles behind, starting a simple life in Tennessee where he set up camp in a tiny cave along the Cumberland River. You can still see the cave today, although from a distance, it looks like little more than a crack in the rock.
Demonbreun lived in the temporary shelter for several months as he pursued his dreams of becoming a fur trader. You can’t go inside, as the entrance is blocked by a cage of steel bars and is protected by a national landmark. If you want to take a peek, head along the right side of the riverbank for about a mile from downtown Nashville
Tennessee has several interesting landmarks and sights to explore. Enjoy learning more about the area and some of the early residents when tour these locations.
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