There are lots of fun facts and random trivia about Tennessee and Gatlinburg. From our weird Tennessee customs to our friendly Tennessee demeanors, there seem to be stories behind them all. We thought we would put together a fun list of Tennessee facts and trivia for you to peruse before you come to Gatlinburg. They are in no particular order. Hopefully you have as much fun reading the fun Tennessee facts as we had putting them together.
Tennessee fun fact #1 – A weird Tennessee law states that fishing off of another person’s hook is prohibited.
Tennessee fun fact #2 – In one Tennessee city it is illegal to use any vulgar, profane, or indecent language in public
Tennessee fun fact #3 – Driving a car while sleeping is prohibited by law in the state of Tennessee
Tennessee fun fact #4 – Coca Cola bottled it’s first coke in Tennessee. Gatlinburg visitors love coke.
Tennessee fun fact #5 – The oldest professional theatre in East Tennessee is Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre in Gatlinburg Tennessee.
Tennessee fun fact #6 – The smoke that rises from the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg isn’t really smoke. It’s similar to a mist. The vegetation in the Smokies traps and releases moisture that creates the smoking effect.
Tennessee fun fact #7 – The King of Rock and Roll made his home in Tennessee. Elvis Presley’s Graceland Mansion is still open for visitors to view.
Tennessee fun fact #8 – Stars from Tennessee include: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jack Hanna, James Denton, Johnny Knoxville, Megan Fox, Miley Cyrus, Quentin Terantino, Shannen Doherty, Cybill shepherd, Kenny Chesney
Tennessee fun fact #9 – A horse named Iroquois was bred in Tennessee at Belle Meade Plantation. Iroquois was the first American winner of the English Derby. Iroquoi’s blood still runs strong. Some popular thoroughbreds come from this lineage. Secretariat is one of them.
Tennessee fun fact #10 – During the War of 1812 Tennessee soldiers volunteered for and fought well in the Battle of New Orleans. This is where we got the nickname The Volunteer State.
Tennessee fun fact #11 – The longest lasting live radio program on the globe is located in Tennessee. The Grand Ole Opry is broadcast on Friday and Saturday nights.
Tennessee fun fact #12 – Dolly Parton is from Sevierville (a neighbor city of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.) One of our major roads is named after her (Dolly Parton Parkway.)