Most hardy trees can be successfully grown outside in a container this way if you are willing to do the work. You will need to grow something that is root-hardy enough to survive the cold (if you are in zone 7, choose things hardy to at least zone 6). Also, be aware that you will need to replant the tree every year or two (if you use a really good soil mix).

Definitely read the thread in the link below. This advise is solid gold for what you are trying to do. I was going to write a similar post, but stumbled onto this one in a search. It's well written and very helpful.

Here is a link that might be useful: Container Soils - Water Movement and Retention - A Discussion About Soils

I have a narrow patio going in (at some point...) and wanted to get some small trees etc. into containers. On the GW junk forum, someone had taken an old washer drum, painted it beautifully and planted it. It did not look like junk - it was very nice! The washer drum has holes all around the sides - perfect for planting something that will need to be in the container for a very long time!

Not only will you need to replant your tree- you will need to learn the art of root pruning. Root pruning is simple once you know how - but deadly to your large plants if you don't learn how and just wing it - and prune the roots incorrectly. Someone at Trees Atlanta should be able to give you some advice on that.

Why not look into very large shrubs that can be pruned into tree forms. It may suit the size you need nicely.
How about considering Vitex? They can deal with both drought and too much rain, and would be very adaptable to being root pruned