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See eye-to-eye with some interesting critters in nature education programs at Tennessee’s state parks, like this one at Warrior’s Path in Kingsport

Visit the Tennessee Walking Horse Museum in Lynchburg to learn more about these world-famous, elegant animals.

See nature from a new perspective on a cruise along one of Tennessee’s many beautiful rivers and lakes.

Celebrate summer with great music, good friends, and tempting foods at Tennessee’s outdoor festivals and fairs.

Immerse yourself in Tennessee’s natural wonders. These hikers are headed to Alum Cave in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The Delta Queen is a floating boutique hotel offering live music, theatrical performances and romantic dining along the exciting North Shore of Chattanooga.

Motorcycle enthusiasts will find countless scenic roads and picturesque towns to tour on a Tennessee vacation.

Tennessee’s Fourth of July festivities provide holiday fun and memorable moments for the whole family.

Go back to a simpler time with a visit to one of Tennessee’s drive-in theatres like the State Line Drive-In in Elizabethton.

Flexibility, freedom and the space to relish a vacation can come from staying in a rental cottage, house, cabin or even a houseboat on the water. A rental accommodation provides a home while you're on the road. Tailor the vacation to fit your family's needs and routines; design your own holiday: horseback riding, golf, shopping, hiking, water sports; for the history buff: historical roads and trails, battlefields and historic parks, and more. Come and go as you please. Eat in or out, whenever you wish, whatever you wish. Take advantage of Tennessee's wonderful farmers markets and pick-your-own produce offerings. Make a family meal everyone will remember. Enjoy the privacy and autonomy that accompanies being in your own space.

Accommodations of every size, style, description and location are here for the renting in Tennessee. Knowing your criteria helps you narrow the field. Will you need a space for one family? A large reunion? Or, something in between? Would you like to take advantage of a natural setting, like a state park, where you are surrounded by beautiful woods or mountains, water and recreational activities? If your idea of recreation runs more toward nightlife, theatre or museums, you might want to pursue rental accommodations closer to the action, or go for the attraction then return to your home away from home. Tennessee's amazing aquariums, colorful festivals and fascinating zoos might figure into your trip as well. Your vacation could be centered around amusement parks, such as Dollywood or Nashville Shores Outdoor Water Park; coming "home" can be a relaxing and satisfying occurrence when going "full tilt" all day.

A "do-it-yourself" vacation allows you to step out of being a tourist and step into the lifestyle and the culture of Tennessee.

Tips for "do-it-yourself" vacations

1. Decide what you want in a rental property. Top end? Simple and basic? Do some comparison shopping.
2. Make sure the rental is family friendly. Is the property appropriate for young children or teens who will be traveling with you?
3. Are you taking a pet? Be sure your rental allows pets and what limitations are specified.
4. Ask for a checklist of what is included in the house and on the property. Linens, washer and dryer, dishwasher, kitchen utensils and serving items are essential for a comfortable stay.
5. Inquire about the amenities on the property. Swimming pool, indoor games, lawn for outdoor games, and picnic area are items to discuss when asking about the property. Plan for children's safety in the water, if swimming facilities are in the vacation package.
6. Be clear about check-in and check-out times. To allow time for cleaning, property changeovers are usually not available until mid-afternoon, and most properties ask that you leave by 10 or 11 a.m.
7. Reserve your first-choice accommodation early; popular destinations fill up fast.
8. Ask for an emergency number from the rental office, just in case.
9. Observe the rules of your accommodation: parking, use of gardens, swimming pool hours; if in doubt, ask. Treat the home with the same care you would at your own home.
10. Get directions to attractions: Map your route from your accommodation, and make copies for all in the party. Make inquiries to the attraction, if someone in your group has mobility limitations.
11. Plan for some meals ahead of the trip. Cook and freeze main items; pack frozen dishes in a cooler to take on the trip. When you return from a day's activities, your dinner is only a few minutes away from being served. If a family reunion is in the offing, ask the "legendary cooks" to bring their most requested dishes.
12. Have a master grocery shopping list at the destination, and learn store locations. Consolidate shopping trips to maximize leisure time.
13. Spend time at the local shops and markets. You can become more than just a tourist passing through.
14. Allow for free, do-as-you-please time. Often, the most incredibly fun moments occur during downtime.
15. Keep smiling--you are on a Tennessee vacation!