Tennessee, is the 36th largest state and is located in the southeastern part of the United States. Bordering Tennessee are the states of Kentucky and Virginia to the north, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi to the south, North Carolina to the east, and Missouri and Arkansas to the west. The state capital is Nashville while the largest city is Memphis. The state has a total population of 6,294,000 making it the 17th largest state.

Tennessee is also known by its nickname, The Volunteer State. It earned this nickname during the War of 1812 due to the role played by volunteer soldiers from Tennessee during the Battle of New Orleans.

Tennessee has the most caves in the United States with more than 8,350 registered caves. The state is also home to many rivers and lakes. Major rivers are the Tennessee, Mississippi, Cumberland, Clinch, and Duck Rivers. Major lakes are the Kentucky, Norris, Chickamauga, Cherokee, and Tims Ford Reservoir. Other natural sites are the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Obed Wild and Scenic River, and Cherokee National Forest. These sites are under the management of the National Park Service.

Aside from its natural bounty, the state also has a rich history and culture. Visitors to the state can learn more by going to any of the 42 historical sites in the state. Five of these sites include Graceland, Jack Daniels’ Distillery, Alex Haley Home and Museum, Chucalissa Prehistoric Indian Village, the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, and Fort Donelson National Battlefield.