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With summer break just a few months away, it's time to start planning your family vacation. For anyone cringing at the thought of hours in the car, here are five tips for surviving a family road trip. Use Checklists for Packing Packing for yourself is hard enough; when you add in an entire family, it gets even harder. Make a packing list ahead of time to help you remember everything. Check off items as you pack them — and then hang onto the list. Using it again at the end of your trip will make you less likely to leave anything behind. If you make the list on your computer, you will only need to do it once. After that, you can use the same list with minor tweaks based on the season, destination, and planned activities. Remember to add things like plastic bags (for trash and car sickness), healthy snacks, and pillows for in-car naps to your list. more Invest in an Entertainment System A rear entertainment system can be a lifesaver on a family road trip. Some vehicles offer a built-in option, or you can buy one of the many aftermarket alternatives available. On vehicles equipped with their own Wi-Fi hotspot, headphones and a tablet or two may be all you need. The goal is for backseat passengers to keep themselves entertained with a movie, TV show, or video game. Headphones make this possible without subjecting mom and dad to the sounds of something they can't see. Take Advantage of Audio Books Can't afford a rear entertainment system? No worries! There are other ways to keep the entire family entertained. In addition to music, you could bring along some audio books for the road. If you have younger children, focus on winners of the Newbery Medal and Newbery Honor books — "Charlotte's Web," "Island of the Blue Dolphins," "The Graveyard Book." Recent bestsellers like the Harry Potter books or Lemony Snicket's "A Series of Unfortunate Events" are also good choices. You can find an audiobook that will last all the way to your destination or bring along a couple of shorter books for variety. Break up the Hours Speaking of variety, scheduling several different activities to break up the hours can help the time pass more quickly. You could plan stops at a few roadside attractions and pick a spot for a picnic lunch. You can also alternate between music, audiobooks, and traditional car games. Let passengers take turns choosing the activity to give everyone something to look forward to. Also, keep in mind that experts recommend driving only four hours in one day if you have a baby and six to eight with older children. Stay Flexible Perhaps the most important tip, at least in terms of your own sanity, is to stay flexible. Plans and routines are good — but there's no reason to stick to one that isn't working. With young children especially, you may need to stop more often than you'd like. That's OK. Make the journey part of the adventure and cut yourself some slack. Keeping everyone happy and healthy is more important than being on time. Following the tips above will help everyone have a good time, even in the close quarters and long hours of a road trip. Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay

If you're seeking history and culture, family-friendly adventure, or arts and entertainment, Tennessee has you covered. Here are five of the top activities to do throughout Tennessee when spring blooms. Memphis Zoo With more than 3,500 animals on display, visitors get to see giant pandas, including Le Le and Ya Ya, who arrived at the zoo from China in 2003. Some other exhibits at the Memphis Zoo include Cat Country's array of African lions, cheetahs, and tigers, and the Aquarium with its variety of balloonfish, softshell turtles, and red-bellied piranhas. Admission to the Memphis Zoo ranges from $10 for children to $15 for adults and it includes $5 parking. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from March 1 to October 16, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from October 17 to February 28. more Great Smoky Mountains National Park Known as one of America's most visited, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park highlights its diverse plant life and wildlife, along with its beautiful mountains and waterfalls. Horseback rides throughout the Cades Cove, Smoky Mountain, the Sugarlands, and Smokemont are available. Visit historic homes, churches, and farms built by the early settlers of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in the Cataloochee Valley, Mingus Creek Trail, and Roaring Fork areas. The park remains open year-round, but some roads and facilities close during winter. National Civil Rights Museum at The Lorraine Motel Opened in 1991, the National Civil Rights Museum highlights the people, places, and events surrounding the American Civil Rights Movement. It is located at the Lorraine Motel — the site where the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Approximately 260 artifacts and more than 40 interactive media and films capture five centuries of history from slavery to the Civil War to the late 20th century. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, including 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The museum closes every Tuesday. Tin Pan South Every spring in Nashville, also known as "Music City," Tin Pan South showcases more than 350 songwriters and acts from various genres at venues around the city. Thousands of music lovers attend the event recognized as one of the world's largest songwriter festivals. Venues have included the Blue Bar, the Hard Rock Cafe, and the Listening Room Cafe, among others. Admission for the music festival is on a show-by-show basis, unless you buy a Fast Access pass, which ranges from $100 to $125 and covers most of the shows. Dollywood Fun for the entire family, Dollywood features several thrill, kiddie and family rides, and water excursions. The popular Daredevil Falls is a boat expedition with a 60-foot drop at 50 mph. Other attractions include the Barnstormer, Chasing Rainbows, and a new roller coaster named the Lightning Rod, which is anticipated to be one of the world's fastest wood roller coasters. The amusement park opens in mid-March, and admission prices vary for one-day and three-day passes. Tennessee offers a variety of activities, especially when the warm weather arrives. Whether traveling solo or with your family, you can always plan a weekend getaway or a day trip to any of these attractions. Image via Pixabay

Besides Nashville, other cities around Tennessee host music festivals every year throughout the spring and summer. Highlighted below are some of the most popular upcoming music festivals in Tennessee. Rhythm N' Blooms The 2016 Rhythm N' Blooms music festival returns to Knoxville from April 8-10 to showcase nationally known and local artists. Set near the Great Smoky Mountains, the music festival also focuses on the city's and East Tennessee's history. Artists come from genres ranging from rock to country. Featured acts include groups like G. Love & Special Sauce, Robert Randolph and The Family Band, and Mutemath. General and VIP passes cost from $50 to $150. Good for the entire weekend of the event, the passes give fans access to such perks as artist meet-n-greets, reserved seating, and commemorative items like a Rhythm N' Blooms t-shirt and poster. more Beale Street Attracting more than 1 million music fans from the United States and internationally, the Beale Street Music Festival brings together big-name artists in rock, soul, blues, and contemporary genres to downtown Memphis. The 2016 festival kicks off April 29 and continues through May 1 at the city's Tom Lee Park. Past acts of the Beale Street Music Festival have included Lenny Kravitz, Ed Sheeran, John Fogerty, and Alabama Shakes. Open to music enthusiasts of all ages, the festival offers general admission tickets ranging from $95 to $135. Bonnaroo Music Festival Scheduled for June 9-12 in Manchester, the Bonnaroo Music Festival will be celebrating its 15th year on The Farm, the site of the main event. This music and arts festival attracts thousands of fans. This year's anticipated lineup includes Pearl Jam, Ellie Goulding, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and many others. Between musical acts, visitors can entertain themselves through on-site activities such as camping, light shows, and The Fountain, which serves as a great way to cool off from the hot weather. While a ticket price for general admission is almost $350, payment plans are available. CMA Music Festival Happening June 9-12 in 2016, the CMA Music Festival presents the best in country music. Held throughout downtown Nashville, the major music event hosts concerts on multiple stages. During the daytime, the city fills up with free music events and activities such as karaoke, giveaways, games, and food sampling. Past acts have included Carrie Underwood, the Zac Brown Band, Luke Bryan, and several others. Ticket prices vary for the main event, which is held at the Nissan Stadium (formerly LP Field). Riverbend Festival Located in Chattanooga, the Riverbend Music Festival boasts eight days of concerts on five stages starting on June 10. Held along the 21st Century Waterfront, Riverbend attracts more than 600,000 fans for country, classic rock, bluegrass, and urban contemporary music. A marketplace, children's village, and mobile exhibits round out the daily activities during the festival. Artists expected to perform include Heart, Salt N Pepa, Blackberry Smoke, REO Speedwagon, and more. Admission to the Riverbend Festival costs $25 per day and free for children 10 and under. These well-known festivals occurring around Tennessee appeal to all musical tastes. Make the most of your spring and summer by attending one of these exciting events. Image via Pixabay

While Toyotas are known for their reliable performance and safety features, it is still important to have a few key items handy in your car at all times in case of an emergency. In the event of a flat tire, accident, or inclement weather, be prepared by keeping these six things in the trunk of your Toyota. Jumper Cables A pair of jumper cables is one of the most important items to have in the trunk of your Toyota. A weak or dead battery can leave you stranded along the side of the road or in a parking lot because your vehicle won't start. With some assistance from a good Samaritan, connecting the jumper cables adds power to your battery and helps you restart your car. Then, you can get back on the road and likely head to an auto repair shop to replace the battery. more First Aid Kit Having a first aid kit is also a must-have in your Toyota. Make sure to include the basics such as gauze pads, bandages, and aspirin, along with antiseptic ointment or wipes. These items may help in treating minor injuries in the event of an accident until help arrives. Also, a charged cell phone will enable you to dial 911, and one to three reflective triangles placed on the roadside can warn oncoming traffic of danger ahead. Flashlight You never know when you might get stranded in the dark, so you should have a flashlight with an extra set of batteries. If you need to change a tire or jump start a dead battery, the extra light helps. It is also a good idea to have a waterproof flashlight if you get stranded in the rain. Blankets or Extra Clothes It may be in the middle of winter, and your Toyota may experience a flat tire or run out of gas. Having a warm blanket or some extra clothes such as sweaters can help you keep warm until you get help. Gas Can It may also be a good idea to keep a gas can in the trunk of your Toyota. Then, you can try to get to the nearest gas station to fill up the can and transfer it to your car's gas tank. However, because gas is flammable, always keep the gas can empty in your trunk until you need it. Spare Tire If you know how to change a tire, then make sure the spare is stored in your trunk, along with a car jack and lug wrench. That way, if you get a flat, you can change it yourself rather than wait a long time for a tow truck. Additionally, consider carrying another component such as a mini air compressor to fill your tires before they go flat. Along with the essentials noted above, other items worth storing in your trunk include cloths for handling grease, specifically if you need to check or change the oil. Wrenches and screwdrivers can also be kept in your Toyota's trunk for minor repairs. Image by Stefan Schweihofer from Pixabay

If you are driving and suddenly hear strange noises coming from your car, don't take any chances by ignoring them. Avoid the potential for accidents or future costly repairs by taking your vehicle to a professional mechanic for a diagnosis. Here are some unusual car noises that warrant attention. Squealing of the Brakes If you hear unusual squealing when you tap the brakes, the likely culprit is worn brake pads that need to be replaced. A metal shim causes the brake pads to make the squealing sound when they wear thin. Another reason for the squealing may be under the hood, indicating that the drive belt may have slipped and needs replacing. Other problems may be weak brake shoe retaining springs, distorted brake shoes, or brake dust. more Brake Grinding A grinding noise while braking may signal a more serious problem when the squealing mentioned above was never resolved. If the brakes have reached the grinding stage, this may mean that the brake pads have worn down and critical parts are now wearing down to the rotor. The brakes at this point are experiencing metal-on-metal contact, setting the stage for complete brake failure if the brakes aren't replaced immediately. Banging from the Engine Sounds from the engine such as banging, clunking, or knocking should warrant immediate attention from a mechanic. Reasons for this noise vary from a misfired engine to a defective spark plug to a bad power component. Banging noises may also indicate leaking valves within the engine, as well as a faulty ignition. In either case, it is best to take your vehicle to a mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem. Rattling Noises from the Hood When you hear rattling noises coming from your car's hood, it may be connected to your catalytic converter, which helps to reduce emissions. A rattling noise may mean that maintenance or repair is needed. If the problem is not the catalytic converter, the rattling may be coming from the camshaft belt. Either way, failure to repair these problems can result in engine failure. Roaring Noises Any roaring sounds may indicate problems with either the tires or wheel bearings. If the noise comes from the tires, then replacing them should solve the problem. To test whether the noise is coming from the wheel bearings, drive at a regular rate of speed, and switch the steering wheel back and forth as you would when changing lanes. If in fact the wheel bearings are damaged, then it's best to get them repaired before the damage causes the wheels to stop working. Clicking in the Steering Wheel Another common noise is a clicking sound that can sometimes be heard in the steering column. This may mean that CV joint is worn, bearings within the steering column have run low, or power steering fluid levels may be low. While these may seem like minor issues, failure to get them maintained or replaced can result in poor vehicle performance in the future. Car noises that sound abnormal should not be taken lightly and should be properly diagnosed. A trip to your dealership or preferred mechanic can save you big bucks in the long run. Image by Davgood Kirshot from Pixabay

Toyota's SUVs feature the latest technology, safety features, and other options that make it challenging to settle on just one vehicle. Toyota offers some of the top SUVs on the market, especially since all models now come standard with Toyota's Star Safety System to keep occupants safe on the road. Check out the following guide to learn more about Toyota's top SUVs so you can choose the best vehicle that suits the lifestyles of everyone in your family. RAV4 The RAV4 crossover is ideal for families thanks to ample cargo and passenger room. The 2016 RAV4 is available as a hybrid for eco-friendly drivers and offers up to 34 miles per gallon (mpg) on city streets. All RAV4 trims come with new integrated fog lights and LED lighting on headlights, tail lights, and daytime running lights to make your drive brighter at any time of day. Standard backup cameras supply a view of what's behind you, while the vehicle's second-row seats fold down to offer up to 73.4 cubic feet for sports equipment and luggage. more Land Cruiser As Toyota's first-ever SUV, the Land Cruiser combines reliable off-road capability with luxurious features for up to eight passengers. Equipped with a V8 engine that emits 381 horsepower, the 2016 Land Cruiser comes with ventilated and heated seats to keep occupants comfortable in any weather, and four-zone automatic climate control that allows passengers to control their own environments. The SUV's eight-speed transmission automatically adjusts based on incline, speed, and throttle input, while Toyota's exclusive new Crawl Control feature allows you to steer effectively through difficult terrain, which you can watch from the conveniently located multi-terrain monitor on the dash. 4Runner This mid-size SUV is best known for its off-road capabilities. The suspension for the 2016 release features high-performance shocks and specially tuned springs that drive over the worst of terrain, as well as a quarter-inch aluminum skid plate that protects the front so you can effectively navigate rugged trails without damaging your vehicle. The 4Runner suits drivers who crave a reliable off-road vehicle, since 90 percent of all 4Runners sold in the last 10 years are still driving today. With a four-liter V6 engine that emits 270 horsepower, this SUV tows up to 5,000 pounds so you can bring heavy outdoor equipment to your favorite off-road destination. Highlander Best known for its powerful engine and roomy cabin, the Toyota Highlander seats up to eight people and was named a Top Safety Pick Plus by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The 2016 Highlander is roomier to accommodate ease of movement and taller passengers and features back seats that fold down to create extra cargo space. The SUV comes standard with a four-cylinder engine that offers 185 horsepower and 25 mpg on highway roads, with the option to upgrade to a V6 engine that generates a whopping 270 horsepower with the same gas mileage. Visit your local Toyota dealership to learn more about your available SUV options. Toyota will outfit you and your family with a compatible vehicle that satisfies your daily and off-road needs.

Toyota is one of the leading manufacturers in vehicle safety that earns awards and high safety ratings year after year from organizations dedicated to keeping drivers safe on the road. All Toyota vehicles come standard with the Star Safety System, which is a suite of six safety systems that protect drivers and occupants in collisions. Check out the following six top Toyota safety features that make up the Star Safety System, and rest assured you and your passengers will be kept safe and protected on the road when driving a Toyota. more 1. Traction Control Traction Control reads data from your vehicle's wheel-speed sensors to determine whether a drive wheel is turning faster than the wheel on the opposite side, which indicates loss of traction. Upon detecting slippage, this feature automatically reduces engine power until the wheel that's slipping slows down and regains traction. When reducing engine power doesn't help, the vehicle's braking system slows the wheel by pulsing the brake for that particular wheel. 2. Anti-lock Brake System Toyota's Anti-lock Brake System prevents brakes from locking up and your vehicle from dangerously skidding when you lose control of your vehicle. This feature uses magnetic wheel-speed sensors and a computer to recognize when your vehicle locks up or loses traction, then forces your brakes to pulse until all wheels are rolling at the same speed. 3. Brake Assist Brake Assist detects when you suddenly hit the brakes in an emergency and applies force and extra brake pressure to help you slow down or stop at a faster rate. This feature is helpful at preventing collisions, and can even be activated when the vehicle detects you're stepping on the brakes too lightly. 4. Smart Stop Technology This feature automatically reduces your vehicle's engine power in the event you push down on both the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time, or when the gas pedal becomes jammed and braking fails to work. Smart Stop Technology helps keep occupants safe when it's necessary to bring your Toyota to an immediate stop. 5. Electronic Brake-Force Distribution Part of Toyota's Anti-lock Brake System, this feature redistributes brake force evenly across all wheels to compensate for uneven weight distribution under hard, sudden braking. Electronic Brake-Force Distribution helps you maintain control of your vehicle by reducing brake pressure on wheels supporting the least amount of weight. 6. Vehicle Stability Control When your vehicle starts navigating in the opposite direction in which you're steering, Vehicle Stability Control reduces engine power and pulses the right or left-side brakes so your vehicle returns to steering in the proper direction. The system uses data from the Anti-lock Brake System and steering wheel sensor to determine whether the vehicle is steering properly, then automatically corrects the situation. If vehicle safety is one of your top concerns when purchasing a new vehicle, stop by your local Toyota dealership to learn more about the Star Safety System. Optional safety features available on most Toyota models include pre-collision technology, blind spot monitor, lane departure alert, and more.

Shopping for a used car requires a lot of homework. You want to ensure that you're buying from a reputable dealer and that the model you choose has been properly cared for while it's been in someone else's ownership. Pre-owned Toyota cars are among some of the most popular, dependable options available. If you're in the market for a new-to-you Toyota, here are some things to keep in mind. Understand the Type of Pre-Owned Certification It's always best to buy a certified pre-owned vehicle rather than just any used car because you can be confident that it's been thoroughly inspected, but did you know that there are multiple types of certification processes? A manufacturer-certified vehicle is the best possible option because it undergoes the most rigorous testing. This type of certification is good beyond the dealership, meaning that it will be honored at any Toyota dealership regardless of where you made the purchase. A dealer-certified vehicle is the second-best option, but your protection is limited to the dealership. If you move away from the area where you purchased the vehicle, you're out of luck. more Review the Certification Coverage Pre-owned certification will mean little if you aren't familiar with the terms and what it actually means. Every certified pre-owned Toyota is subject to a 160-point inspection process (174 for hybrids) which includes appearance, mechanical, and detailing standards. This process is, of course, carried out by highly skilled and factory-trained technicians. Even the audio and alarm systems are thoroughly tested to ensure they're in optimal working order. Certified pre-owned vehicles also come with other perks. Every certified pre-owned Toyota comes with a CARFAX Vehicle History Report, a 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive Warranty, a 7-year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, and a full year of Roadside Assistance. Know What the Vehicle Is Worth Knowledge is power when it comes to purchasing a pre-owned car. Before signing on the dotted line, research the vehicle you're most interested in buying in order to determine its true market value. It may already be priced fairly, but having this knowledge puts you in a better position to negotiate price, if necessary. Kelley Blue Book is considered the standard for vehicle market values, so keep the website or app handy on your phone when shopping for your next vehicle. Take a Test Drive Test driving a car before you buy it is a must. Don't feel pressured to make a decision. Before and after the test drive, you want to inspect the vehicle from top to bottom and inside and outside the vehicle. During the test drive, consider how comfortable the seat is, how smooth the vehicle drives, where any blind spots are, and how handy the console controls and gauges are placed. Ask the salesperson any questions you think of including what features are included in the car. If you enjoy driving the car during the test drive, you'll continue to enjoy it for years to come. A little homework and mindful observation can go a long way in purchasing a pre-owned vehicle. Shop certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles to ensure you're getting the highest quality car possible.

Kingsport is surrounded by beautiful wildlife and historic landmarks, which make for exhilarating road trips when you're aching to leave town. When combined with old-fashioned Southern hospitality, these Tennessee destinations guarantee fun for your friends and the entire family. Ready to venture on a quick weekend getaway or weeklong adventure? Follow one of the routes below to explore unique wonders located throughout the state of Tennessee. 1. The Lost Sea Adventure Located at Craighead Caverns in Sweetwater, The Lost Sea is the world's second largest underground lake. To get to The Lost Sea from Kingsport, follow Highway 11W S. to TN-68 S. in Monroe County, then take exit 60 and follow TN-68 S. to Lost Sea Road. Tour Craighead Caverns to learn more about its history, which dates back to the time of the Cherokee Indians. At the bottom of the cave, board a glass-bottom boat to tour the wondrous Lost Sea. Then, venture over to Old Sweetwater Village to explore log cabins that house a General Store, the Cavern Kitchen Cafe, ice cream parlor, and gift shop. more 2. Fall Creek Falls Known as one of the most breathtaking scenic locations in Tennessee, Fall Creek Falls is the state's largest and most visited state park. From Kingsport, drive two hours and 40 minutes along Highway 11W S. to TN-101 S. in Crossville, then take exit 322 from I-40 W. Continue on TN-101 S. Drive for 45 minutes to TN-284 W. in Van Buren County. Fall Creek Falls is at 10821 Park Road in Spencer. Standing tall at 256 feet, Fall Creek Falls features countless streams, gorges, and cascades. Book a room at the local inn for a panoramic view of the falls, or stay in one of 30 cabins that accommodate up to 10 people. During your stay, explore up to 34 miles of trails that surround the falls. 3. Downtown Franklin Established in 1799, downtown Franklin combines rich history with modern establishments that offer something for everyone who visits this quaint, charming town. Take Highway 11W S. from Kingsport to I-40 W. in Knoxville. Then, follow I-40 W. to Franklin and take exit 65 from I-65 S. Continue driving on Murfreesboro Road until you reach downtown Franklin. Take a Civil War, history, or ghost tour, explore the town's 60 shops in historic buildings, and grab a bite to eat at one of over 25 restaurants. 4. Arrington Vineyards Located in the beautiful hills of Tennessee wine country, Arrington Vineyards offers wine tasting along with gourmet chocolates, cheeses, and sausages you can eat from one of several outdoor picnic tables that overlook the vineyard's 75 acres. From Kingsport, take Highway 11W S. from Kingsport to I-40 W. in Knoxville. Then, follow I-40 W. and TN-840 W. to US-31 ALT S. in Williamson County. Take exit 42 from TN-840 W, then follow Patton Road until you reach the vineyards. Take advantage of your time in Tennessee to explore the state's many scenic roads and attractions. When stopping for gas, ask the locals to direct you to their favorite landmarks to make the most of your road trip. Image by SALVATORE MONETTI from Pixabay

DealerRater recently awarded select dealerships with the 2016 Consumer Satisfaction Award. This is the second year that DealerRater has given out the awards recognizing car dealerships in the United States and Canada who have achieved high review scores from online reviewers. This year, we were fortunate enough to be recognized as one of the top car dealers in the country and were awarded the 2016 Consumer Satisfaction Award. How we won the award Every member of Toyota of Kingsport has worked tirelessly to deserve this honor. We’ve made it our mission to put serving our customers above all else and this award proves that it pays off! more The sales, service, and finance teams at Toyota of Kingsport strive to provide the best car-buying experience in Kingsport and the surrounding Tennessee area, and our customers come back over and over again with positive things to say. Winning the 2016 Consumer Satisfaction Award from DealerRater is a tremendous honor and we’re thrilled for our sister store. Consumer Satisfaction is right at your fingertips To start your award-winning car dealership experience, visit Toyota of Kingsport to see all of the amazing new and used cars we have in stock. We couldn’t be more humbled by our success and we want everyone to come to us if they’re in the market for a Toyota!

East Tennessee is home to some of the country's most beautiful scenery, so you don't have to drive far to enjoy a scenic state park. Whether you're planning an afternoon drive or a weekend getaway, here are some destinations you'll want to consider: Roan Mountain State Park Located just an hour from Kingsport on Highway 143, Roan Mountain State Park encompasses more than 2,000 acres around the majestic Roan Mountain. While it makes an ideal day trip, if you'd rather spend the night, the park offers camping sites and multiple cabins with rocking chair front porches and wood-burning stoves. Fishing is the park's most popular activity, and the trout are regularly stocked. You also won't want to miss the park's 12 miles of hiking trails. more Fall Creek Falls State Park At more than three hours away, this one is more of a weekend getaway than a quick day trip, but it's well worth the extra mileage. Fall Creek Falls State Park is the state's largest and most visited park. Sprawling more than 26,000 acres, its landscape is laced with gorges, lush hardwood timber, streams, and white cascades. At 256 feet, Fall Creek Falls itself is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States, but there are plenty of other waterfalls to see on a Fall Creek Falls excursion. Learn about the area at the hands-on Nature Center, play a round at the 18-hole golf course, go rock climbing, zip line, or fish for largemouth bass. Paris Landing State Park Another one worth an extended trip, Paris Landing State Park is located about six hours from Kingsport near the town of Buchanan. This park boasts a diverse and varied landscape with affordable lodging accommodations and family-friendly activities that encourage visitors to come back year after year. There's no access fee to enjoy the park, and once you're in, you can enjoy a wide range of activities that include geocaching, biking, birding, hiking, swimming, fishing, and even disc golf. Unique vacation packages are also available, and they include educational waterfall tours, interpretive programs, meals, transportation, and accommodations. Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park This popular park is a little bit closer to home. Located in Limestone less than an hour from Kingsport, Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park is dedicated to the soldier, pioneer, industrialist, politician, and famous Tennessean that was born here in 1786. The 105-acre historic park is a beautifully maintained memorial to Davy Crockett that features a visitor center, replica cabin, picnic pavilions, and 88 campsites. If you're interested in fishing, the Nolichucky River provides opportunities to catch bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and redeye. There are also a variety of easy and moderate hiking trails that provide stunning views of the local flora and wildlife. In addition to the state park, you can also visit the Crockett Tavern Museum in nearby Morristown as well as the Cherokee National Forest. Tennessee certainly has a lot to offer when it comes to natural beauty, so plan on visiting one of these state parks on your family's next outing. Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

Sport utility vehicles have taken the automotive market by storm. With Toyota leading the way in American sales, it's a no-brainer that Toyota SUVs are crushing the competition with state-of-the-art features and advanced options. If you're looking to buy a new SUV or crossover, be sure to consider one of these 2016 models: 4Runner The Toyota 4Runner has a long history of being the brand's go-to off-roading SUV, and now the 2016 version looks even more rugged and ready for the unbeaten path than ever. Unlike some competitor SUVs, the 4Runner is a midsize body-on-frame vehicle built to be durable and more capable than any rival. The latest model boasts an upgraded base audio system, an enhanced towing capacity, and cell phone navigation integration. Even better, a rearview camera is standard even on the base model, so you know you're getting ample features for the money. more Highlander Available as both a traditional and hybrid vehicle, the 2016 Highlander provides easy third-row access, a flexible second row, and a roomy interior that combine to make it a great alternative to a minivan. You'll love the wide range of available powertrains and the handsome, versatile styling. The Highlander provides an unexpected car-like feel that's quite removed from the truck-like performance of the 4Runner, which is a great option for families who don't need to squeeze in a little off-roading time. You can also choose from a slew of options that include a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, and more. RAV4 If you're in the market for a compact SUV, look no further than the 2016 RAV4. Also available in a hybrid option, the RAV4 boasts brand-new electronic safety systems that have helped it earn a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. Optional safety features include automatic pre-collision braking, a forward collision warning, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and a pedestrian pre-collision system. It may not be the sportiest SUV on the market, but it sure is sleek and boasts a responsive drive quality that's unmatched by competitors. Sequoia In the full-size SUV market, nothing outperforms like the 2016 Sequoia. Sure, it's a massive, thirsty SUV with old-school charm, but it also excels at towing and hauling around the biggest of families. Cabin features feel like high-end full-size pickup appointments, and the second- and third-row seatbacks can be folded down to create a flat cargo floor. The new Sequoia also handles better and rides smoother than ever. If you're not hauling any cargo, this SUV can go from zero to 60 in just 6.7 seconds, which is better than other vehicles of its size. Simply put, when you need a big, bulky SUV designed to tow and haul the kids to school, you'd be hard-pressed to beat the Toyota Sequoia. Choosing your favorite SUV will ultimately come down to your must-have features and style aesthetics, but Toyota gives you more options to choose from than most automakers. Take one for a test drive today and see which one you prefer. Image via Pixabay