The 8 States That Border Tennessee

Tennessee, famously dubbed ‘The Volunteer State,’ is located in the southeastern region of the United States. Tennessee is known for its cultural heritage and vibrant cities, sharing a border with eight states. Each of these states brings a unique flavor of Southern or Midwestern culture to the area. Tennessee shares a border with Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Arkansas, and Missouri. Let’s take a closer look at the eight states that border Tennessee.

The State of Tennessee

Tennessee became a state in 1796, and it was the 16th state to join the United States. What is now Tennessee was originally part of North Carolina. In 1790, North Carolina relinquished the area to the United States. After six years, Tennessee became its own state.

The State’s Geography and ‘Grand Division’

Tennessee is approximately 41,227 square miles, making it a similar size to Cuba. From east to west, the state is 432 miles long. It is 112 miles long, north to south. The highest point in the state is Clingmans Dome in the Smoky Mountains, which reaches 6,643 feet tall. 

The state consists of 94 counties, and it is divided into the “Grand Division of Tennessee”: East, Middle, and West Tennessee. These divisions date back to the “1835-1836 Acts of Tennessee.”

East Tennessee consists of the Appalachian Plateau and the Cumberland Plateau. The principal cities in this region are Knoxville, Chattanooga, and the Tri-Cities (Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol). Middle Tennessee is west of the Cumberland Plateau. The region has rolling hills and lush river valleys. Nashville, the state’s capital and largest metro, is located in Middle Tennessee. West Tennessee is the final division of the state. This division is primarily an agricultural region and contains the state’s second-largest city, Memphis. 

1. Kentucky

Border Length: Approximately 225 miles

Tennessee’s northern neighbor is Kentucky. The two states share a 225-mile border, a solid portion of which is dotted by the meandering Tennessee River. Kentucky is known for its horse racing, bourbon distilleries, and the historic city of Louisville, which is often a popular destination for Tennesseans to visit. 

2. Virginia 

Border Length: Approximately 140 miles

On Tennessee’s northeastern side, you will find the state of Virginia. The border between Tennessee and Virginia is approximately 140 miles long and comprises the peaks and ridges of the Appalachian Mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah Valley are major selling points for Tennessee residents who enjoy recreational activities. 

3. North Carolina 

Border Length: Approximately 332 miles

Tennessee’s eastern neighbor is North Carolina. In particular, the border between the states runs approximately 332 miles and includes portions of the Great Smoky Mountains. Recreational activities aside, North Carolina’s diverse landscape and unique cities provide ample reasons for Tennesseans to jaunt across the North Carolina border. Asheville, Charlotte, and Raleigh are all fan favorites of the Vols. 

4. Georgia

Border Length: Approximately 186 miles

Tennessee’s southeastern border state is Georgia, which extends about 140 miles. Similar to Kentucky, this southeastern border is defined by the Tennessee River, which provides a number of water-based recreational activities. Atlanta, amongst other historic sites in Georgia, attracts a number of Tennesseans eager to find diversity and culture. 

5. Alabama

Border Length: Approximately 185 miles

The southern border of Tennessee is shared with Alabama. The Tennessee River is a prominent feature along this stretch, which totals around 186 miles. For this reason, many residents from both Tennessee and Alabama take advantage of the opportunities to boat and fish. Additionally, Alabama’s music scene and Southern cuisine are inspirations to Tennessee’s food culture. 

6. Mississippi

Border Length: Approximately 229 miles 

On the southwest side of Tennessee lies Mississippi, and the states share a 220-mile border. This border includes the Mississippi River, which provides riverboat cruises and water-based activities. Mississippi’s civil rights history makes the state an educational destination for Tennesseans eager to better understand Southern culture. 

7. Arkansas

Border Length: Approximately 222 miles

The state to the west of Tennessee is Arkansas, with a 222-mile border along the Mississippi River. The border between these two states is made up of adorable river towns and scenic bluffs specific to the Mississippi River Valley. Arkansas’s natural beauty, such as the Ozark Mountains and Hot Springs Natural Park, is a draw for any Tennesseans excited about outdoor adventures and recreation.

8. Missouri

Border Length: Approximately 128 miles

Tennessee’s northwestern border, which measures about 128 miles long, is shared with Missouri. The border follows the banks of the Mississippi River, which offers scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Missouri’s vibrant cities, St. Louis and Kansas City, provide a cultural draw to those from the Vol State. 

The 8 States Bordering Tennessee

Each of Tennessee’s neighboring states offers a unique blend of culture and history. Moreover, these states also have a plethora of exciting outdoor activities specific to the region, making them all fascinating places to explore. 

If you’re looking for a southeastern adventure, weave throughout Tennessee and these bordering states for a taste of Southern cuisine and rich culture.

Summary of the States That Border Tennessee