Planning a Romantic anniversary Getaway in Tennessee: 4 Key steps

Unfortunately Tennessee is a land locked state, making it difficult to spend your anniversary on the beach or another tropical location. However, it can be just as luxurious as a tropical vacation, you just have to plan a great trip!

1. Find a unique villa or cabin within 1-3 hours drive of your city

Why 1–3 Hours? Short driving distances keep the trip low-stress, help you avoid travel fatigue, and maximize your actual time together. The goal is to spend more time connecting and less time commuting.

What to Look For:

Ambience: Think cozy fireplaces, private hot tubs, or big windows with a view. Romantic getaways should feel special, look for places with intentional touches.

Privacy: Make sure it feels like your space for the weekend. Whether it’s a secluded cabin in the woods or a lakeside villa, privacy enhances intimacy.

Unique: Novelty (like staying in a unique or unexpected accommodation) stimulates excitement and curiosity, helping couples break out of routine and reconnect in a fresh, memorable way.

Add-Ons: A lot of accommodations have romantic packages, smores kits, or other meals you can purchase in advance. Picking a couple special add-ons could make the weekend extra special.

Pro Tip: Use a map search feature when browsing listings and filter by “Entire Place” for increased privacy. You can even search by keywords like “romantic,” “hot tub,” or “couples retreat.”

2. Look Up Local Restaurants and Coffee Spots

Dinner options styles: Casual, Grilling/Cooking at the location, romantic dinner. Based on what y’all like, choose a combination of these for diners! For a three night stay, you will need to plan two to three dinners

Lunch option styles: Fast Food, Casual walk in dinning, or sandwiches on a picnic. For a three-night stay, you will need approximately two lunches planned.

Breakfast option styles: Local Coffee Shop, Local dinner, or sandwiches on a picnic. For a three-night stay, you will need approximately two lunches planned.

Pro Tip: Many rentals have coffee makers in the Cabin, so you will be able to cook breakfast and have coffee. Search by keywords like “pour over coffee,” “locally sourced beans,” or “complimentary coffee.”

3. Explore Local Attractions or Enjoy Built-In Amenities

This is where fun and adventure meet connection. Use this part of the trip to try something new together. A shared mini adventure builds connection and sparks conversation.

Quick Things to Search:

Nature Lovers: Scenic hiking trails, botanical gardens, stargazing spots, kayak rentals
Low-Key Adventurers: Local vineyards, antique shops, lakeside paddle boarding, drive-in movie theatre
Indoor Fun: Firewood-ready fireplaces, hot tubs, board games, movie nights with snacks

Pro Tip: Many rentals have hot tubs, firepits, and board games. Be sure to use these to make the most out of your trip!

4. Build in Unstructured Time

Spontaneity thrives in white space. Don’t over-schedule- block off an hour or two for:

Napping together
Reading on the porch
Sipping wine in the hot tub
Playing a board game or cards with music in the background

Pro Tip: These are the moments where spontaneity can thrive. By scheduling out more time than is needed for these activities, you can allow the day to flow effortlessly while building in time for relaxation and spontaneity.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Light, Keep It Loving

Remember, this isn’t about crafting the perfect weekend-it’s about showing up for each other with intention. Leave room for laughter, surprises, and quiet moments. Let spontaneity breathe within a simple, thoughtful plan. Whether it’s your first getaway or your fiftieth, this guide makes it possible to reconnect, recharge, and rekindle the spark-no stress required.

From our family to yours, we hope this helps you plan the special retreat your relationship needs.