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In the four years we’ve lived in Tennessee, we’ve had the chance to explore beautiful state parks, fascinating historical sites, and a vibrant cultural scene that stretches far beyond what we expected when we first moved here.

Tennessee is widely known for its music, Dolly Parton, whiskey, Civil War history, and landmarks like Graceland—but there’s so much more to the state than its most famous icons. Some of its most interesting “claims to fame” are lesser known, yet they’ve made their way well beyond the state lines and into everyday life across the country.

So in honor of the state we now call home, here are five of our favorite lesser-known things made in Tennessee.

And fun fact—Tennessee is known as the Volunteer State because it has historically had more volunteers for military service than any other state in the country, a title the state still wears with pride today.

While Tennessee is best known for its music and landmarks, the state is also home to many iconic foods, products, and cultural traditions that are recognized across the United States.

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Goo Goo Clusters

One of Tennessee’s most beloved sweet treats is the Goo Goo Cluster. Goo Goo Clusters are one of the most iconic foods made in Tennessee and remain a favorite souvenir for visitors to Nashville.

First created in Nashville over a century ago, it’s widely recognized as one of America’s earliest combination candy bars. What began as a local confection quickly grew in popularity—from being sold in a small candy shop to traveling city streets on candy carts before eventually becoming a household name across the country.

As the brand grew, it became closely tied to Nashville’s music culture and even sponsored the Grand Ole Opry, helping cement its place as a true Tennessee classic. While some people mistakenly believe the name comes from the Opry connection, “Goo Goo” actually comes from the idea that it was so good people would ask for “more, more” from the start.

Today, visitors to Nashville can stop by the Goo Goo Chocolate Co. to learn about its history—and even create their own custom Goo Goo Cluster.

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Bristol Sessions & the Birth of Country Music

While Tennessee is well known today for the music scenes of Nashville and Memphis, many people don’t realize that the roots of recorded country music began in the small town of Bristol, located on the Tennessee–Virginia border.

In 1927, musicians from across the country traveled to Bristol to take part in one of the first major commercial recording sessions. At the time, recording technology was still brand new, and artists were eager for the chance to capture and share their music with a wider audience.

Over the course of ten days, musicians from many different backgrounds recorded their songs—often collaborating in unexpected ways and blending styles that would help shape early American music. This historic event became known as the Bristol Sessions. The Bristol Sessions are often considered the “birthplace of country music” recordings in the United States.

The sessions marked a turning point in music history. For the first time, artists could share their sound far beyond their local communities, helping to lay the foundation for what would eventually become modern country music.

Today, visitors can explore this legacy at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, which tells the story of how these early recordings helped shape the sound of American music.

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Tennessee Walking Horses

One of Tennessee’s most recognizable equine contributions is the Tennessee Walking Horse. Tennessee Walking Horses are one of the most iconic horse breeds developed in the United States and remain a major part of Tennessee’s agricultural and cultural heritage.

This breed is known for its distinctive four-beat “running walk,” a smooth and natural gait that makes it especially comfortable for riding long distances. Originally developed in the rural plantations of the South, the breed was valued for both utility and endurance, and over time it evolved into one of the most prominent show horse breeds in the world.

The Tennessee Walking Horse tradition first took shape in the rural areas south of Nashville, including around Murfreesboro, where breeders refined the traits that define the breed today.

Each year, visitors can see this legacy celebrated at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in Shelbyville. For those interested in learning more about the breed’s history, the nearby Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum offers a deeper look into its cultural and agricultural significance.

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Lodge Cast Iron

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in cooking, it’s that food almost always tastes better when it’s made in cast iron. There’s something about it—especially with Southern comfort food—that brings out a deeper, richer flavor you just can’t quite replicate elsewhere.

Lodge Cast Iron is one of Tennessee’s most iconic manufacturers and has helped define American cast iron cookware for generations. Visitors can explore its factory store in South Pittsburg, Tennessee.

The store is filled with every type of cast iron cookware you can imagine—from skillets and griddles to specialty pieces in every shape and size. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend time browsing, whether you’re looking for everyday cookware or something a little more unique.

One of the highlights is the clearance and seconds section, where slightly imperfect pieces are sold at a discount. While they may have minor cosmetic flaws, they are still fully functional and a great way to pick up quality cookware at a lower price.

Even if you’re just passing through, it’s worth stopping to see the iconic “Pan Man”—a large statue made entirely of cast iron that welcomes visitors to the store and has become a local landmark in its own right.

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Moon Pies

Another iconic Tennessee treat is the beloved Moon Pie. Moon Pies are one of the most recognizable Southern sweets and remain a popular treat throughout Tennessee and beyond.

First created in 1917 by the Chattanooga Bakery, Moon Pies were inspired by a traveling salesman who asked for a hearty snack “as big as the moon.” The result was a sweet combination of graham crackers, marshmallow, and chocolate that quickly became a Southern staple.

Over time, Moon Pies became closely associated with celebrations like Mardi Gras, where they are famously tossed from parade floats alongside beads and other throws.

Today, visitors can stop by the Moon Pie General Store in Chattanooga to browse shelves filled with classic and seasonal flavors.

For a more unique experience, the small town of Bell Buckle, Tennessee hosts the annual RC & MoonPie Festival each summer, celebrating this iconic treat alongside its longtime soda pairing.

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What I love most about living in Tennessee is discovering how many of its most recognizable “exports” aren’t just famous landmarks or big-name attractions, but everyday creations that carry the state’s personality far beyond its borders.

From candy made in Nashville to music history in Bristol, from cast iron cookware in small-town factories to beloved treats and traditions that show up in celebrations across the country, each of these favorites tells a small piece of a much bigger story.

Tennessee has a way of weaving itself into both culture and daily life in ways you might not expect—and that’s exactly what makes exploring its lesser-known claims to fame so much fun.

Thanks for coming along today to these favorite places and things that were made in Tennessee. May your treats be sweet, your music be soulful, and your horses be fast.

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Follow along for more adventures near and far!

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