Nashville, Tennessee, is a vibrant city known for its rich music heritage, delicious Southern cuisine, and bustling nightlife. However, if you’re looking to venture beyond the city limits, several incredible day trips offer a variety of experiences, from serene nature getaways to charming small towns.
👉🏼11 Beautiful Road Trips From Nashville – Vacation Spots, Things To Do & Stopovers
Day Trips From Nashville, TN
Here are some top picks for day trips from Nashville, complete with travel details, activities, and accommodation options if you decide to extend your visit overnight.
These day trips from Nashville, TN, and overnight stays perfectly complement the vibrant life in Music City. You can explore the beauty and diversity of Tennessee and its neighboring states.
Franklin, TN
Distance from Nashville: 21 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Franklin is renowned for its well-preserved historic downtown, Civil War history, and vibrant arts scene. The town offers a charming small-town atmosphere with plenty of shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Scenic Route: Take I-65 South and exit at Cool Springs Blvd. for a picturesque drive through rolling hills and lush landscapes.
Things to Do:
- Historic Downtown Franklin: Explore the quaint streets filled with boutique shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
- Lotz House Museum: Delve into Civil War history with a tour of this historic house.
- Carnton Plantation: Visit this historic site for a guided tour of the plantation and its beautiful grounds.
Tours to Book:
- Franklin on Foot: A guided walking tour covering Franklin’s history and highlights.
- Civil War Battlefield Tour: Learn about the Battle of Franklin and visit key sites with an expert guide.
Overnight Stay: The Harpeth Franklin Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton – A stylish hotel with comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
Useful Tips:
- Visit during the annual Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival for a unique experience.
- Parking can be full in downtown Franklin, so plan to arrive early.
Lynchburg, TN
Distance from Nashville: 74 miles (approximately 1.5 hours)
Lynchburg is famous for being the home of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, where you can learn about the history and production of Tennessee whiskey.
Scenic Route: Take US-41A South for a scenic drive through the countryside, passing farms and small towns.
Things to Do:
- Jack Daniel’s Distillery: Take a guided tour to see how the world-famous whiskey is made and enjoy a tasting session.
- Lynchburg Town Square: Explore the quaint shops and restaurants around the historic town square.
Tours to Book:
- Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tour: Various tour options include tasting and in-depth history tours.
Overnight Stay: Lynchburg Country Inn – A cozy, affordable option with comfortable rooms.
Useful Tips:
- Book your distillery tour in advance as they can fill up quickly.
- Lynchburg is a dry county, so you can only purchase whiskey at the distillery.
Mammoth Cave National Park, KY – Best Places To Visit Near Nashville, TN
Distance from Nashville: 93 miles (approximately 1.5 hours)
Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world’s longest-known cave system, offering nature lovers and spelunkers a unique adventure. Visit to this nature cave formation is one of the best places to visit near Nashville, TN.
Scenic Route: Take I-65 North and enjoy the scenic drive through Kentucky’s picturesque countryside.
Things to Do:
- Cave Tours: Various guided tours range from easy walks to strenuous spelunking adventures.
- Hiking: Explore the park’s numerous trails, offering beautiful views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
- Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s history, geology, and ecology.
Tours to Book:
- Frozen Niagara Tour: A shorter, family-friendly tour featuring stunning cave formations.
- Wild Cave Tour: For the adventurous, this tour thoroughly explores undeveloped parts of the cave.
Overnight Stay: The Lodge at Mammoth Cave lies within the park and offers convenient access to all activities.
Useful Tips:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, as the cave can be cool.
- Book cave tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Chattanooga, TN – Cities Close To Nashville TN
Distance from Nashville: 134 miles (approximately 2 hours)
Chattanooga is a vibrant city nestled along the Tennessee River, known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions.
👉🏼Best Things To Do In Chattanooga TN This Weekend
Scenic Route: Take I-24 East, and you’ll drive through the beautiful Sequatchie Valley and along the Tennessee River Gorge.
Things to Do:
- Tennessee Aquarium: Explore the impressive freshwater and saltwater exhibits.
- Lookout Mountain: Visit Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway attractions.
- Chattanooga Riverwalk: Enjoy a stroll along the scenic riverfront.
Tours to Book:
- Chattanooga Ducks: An exciting amphibious vehicle tour of the city and the Tennessee River.
- Ruby Falls Cave Tour: A guided tour of the stunning underground waterfall.
Overnight Stay:
- Mid-Budget: The Read House – A historic hotel with elegant rooms and modern amenities.
Useful Tips:
- Lookout Mountain attractions can get crowded, so visiting early in the day is recommended.
- The Riverwalk is perfect for biking, so consider renting a bike to cover more ground.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
Distance from Nashville: 222 miles (approximately 4 hours)
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and numerous recreational opportunities.
Scenic Route: Take I-40 East and enjoy the scenic drive through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
Things to Do:
- Hiking: Choose from various trails, including the Alum Cave Trail and Clingmans Dome.
- Wildlife Viewing: Look out for deer, black bears, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Visitor Centers: Stop by Sugarlands or Oconaluftee Visitor Centers for information and exhibits.
Tours to Book:
- Guided Hiking Tours: Local companies offer guided hikes, providing insights into the park’s ecology and history.
- Wildlife Tours: Book a tour with an expert guide to increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
Overnight Stay: Gatlinburg Inn—This hotel is located near the park entrance, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to park activities.
Useful Tips:
- The park can be bustling during peak seasons, so plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions and bring appropriate gear.
Leiper’s Fork, TN – Day Trips Near Nashville
Distance from Nashville: 28 miles (approximately 40 minutes)
Leiper’s Fork is a charming village that combines Southern hospitality with a vibrant arts scene. It’s an excellent place for one of the best relaxing day trips from Nashville with its galleries, shops, and countryside views.
Scenic Route: Take TN-100 W and enjoy the scenic drive through the rolling hills and picturesque farmlands.
Things to Do:
- Art Galleries: Explore the various art galleries showcasing local artists’ works.
- Leiper’s Fork Distillery: Tour and taste some locally produced whiskey.
- Shopping: Browse unique boutiques and antique shops.
Tours to Book:
- Leiper’s Fork Distillery Tour: Learn about the distilling process and the history of Tennessee whiskey.
- Horseback Riding Tours: Enjoy a guided horseback ride through the beautiful countryside.
Overnight Stay: Pot N’ Kettle Cottages – Cozy, charming cottages perfect for overnight stays.
Useful Tips:
- Check the local event calendar, as Leiper’s Fork hosts various festivals and live music events throughout the year.
- Enjoy a meal at Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, a local favorite known for its Southern cuisine and live music.
Bowling Green, KY
Distance from Nashville: 67 miles (approximately 1 hour)
Bowling Green is known for its rich automotive history, beautiful parks, and family-friendly attractions.
Scenic Route: Take I-65 North and drive smoothly through the Kentucky countryside.
Things to Do:
- National Corvette Museum: Explore exhibits dedicated to America’s sports car.
- Lost River Cave: Take an underground boat tour through a historic cave.
- Beech Bend Park: Enjoy amusement rides, a water park, and racing events.
Tours to Book:
- Lost River Cave Boat Tour: A guided tour that explores the cave’s history and geology.
- Corvette Plant Tour: See how Corvettes are made at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant.
Overnight Stay: Hyatt Place Bowling Green – Modern hotel with comfortable amenities and a convenient location.
Useful Tips:
- The Corvette Museum offers interactive exhibits and special events, so check their schedule before visiting.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the cave tour, as some walking is involved.
Huntsville, AL
Distance from Nashville: 111 miles (approximately 2 hours)
Huntsville, known as “Rocket City,” is famous for its space history, science centers, and beautiful botanical gardens.
Scenic Route: Take I-65 South and US-231 S for a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Alabama.
Things to Do:
- U.S. Space & Rocket Center: Explore exhibits on space exploration and see historic spacecraft.
- Huntsville Botanical Garden: Wander through beautiful themed gardens and nature trails.
- Monte Sano State Park: Enjoy hiking, biking, and stunning vistas from this mountaintop park.
Tours to Book:
- Guided Tour of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center: Learn about the history of space exploration with an expert guide.
- Botanical Garden Tour: A guided tour that highlights the unique plants and features of the garden.
Overnight Stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Huntsville – Hotel & Spa.
Useful Tips:
- The U.S. Space & Rocket Center can be busy during weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early.
- Monte Sano State Park is great for a picnic, so pack a lunch and enjoy the views.
👉🏼10 Best Road Trips From Chattanooga – Scenic Drives Near Chattanooga TN
Cummins Falls State Park, TN
Distance from Nashville: 80 miles (approximately 1.5 hours)
Cummins Falls State Park is home to one of Tennessee’s most picturesque waterfalls, offering a perfect spot for hiking, swimming, and enjoying nature.
Scenic Route: Take I-40 E and exit at TN-53 N for a beautiful drive through the countryside and along rivers.
Things to Do:
- Cummins Falls: Hike to the base of the falls and enjoy swimming in the natural pool.
- Hiking Trails: Explore various trails that offer scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Tours to Book:
- Guided Hike to Cummins Falls: Learn about the park’s ecology and history with a guided hike.
Overnight Stay:
- Mid-Budget: Quality Inn Cookeville – A comfortable hotel with easy access to the park.
Useful Tips:
- Wear sturdy water shoes for hiking, as the trail to the falls can be slippery.
- Check the park’s website for water levels and safety advisories before visiting.
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, KY/TN
Distance from Nashville: 110 miles (approximately 2 hours)
This vast natural area offers outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Scenic Route: Take I-24 W and US-68 W, driving through the picturesque countryside and crossing the Cumberland River.
Things to Do:
- Elk & Bison Prairie: Drive through this enclosed area to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
- The Homeplace 1850s Working Farm: Step back in time and learn about pioneer life.
- Nature Station: Visit the environmental education center and see native wildlife.
Tours to Book:
- Guided Wildlife Tour: Enhance your visit with a guided tour focusing on the area’s wildlife and natural history.
- Kayaking Tour: Explore the lakes and waterways with a guided kayaking adventure.
Overnight Stay: Patti’s Inn & Suites – A charming hotel near the recreation area with comfortable rooms.
Useful Tips:
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- The area is large, so plan your visit to focus on a few key attractions to make the most of your day.
Natchez Trace Parkway – Things To Do Outside Of Nashville
Distance from Nashville: Entry points within 10 miles of Nashville.
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic road that stretches 444 miles from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi, offering beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and recreational opportunities. This scenic drive is one of the best things to do outside of Nashville for nature lovers.
Scenic Route: Start at the northern terminus near Nashville and drive along this scenic byway, stopping at various points of interest.
Things to Do:
- Birdsong Hollow: Visit the double-arched bridge for stunning views and photo opportunities.
- Historic Sites: Explore the Meriwether Lewis Monument and the Old Trace.
- Hiking and Biking: Enjoy numerous trails and paths along the parkway.
Tours to Book:
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: Enhance your drive with an audio tour that provides historical and cultural insights.
Overnight Stay: Natchez Trace RV Campground – Offers cabins and RV sites if you plan to explore the parkway over multiple days.
Useful Tips:
- Limited services are along the parkway, so bring snacks, water, and a full gas tank.
- The speed limit is lower than most highways, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
These day trips from Nashville offer diverse experiences, from exploring historic towns to immersing yourself in nature. Each destination is within a short drive from Nashville, making them perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a change of scenery, there’s something for everyone.
Plan, book tours in advance, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and unique attractions that await you just outside Nashville.
Many destinations surround Nashville, so you have many options for day trips from there. If you love history, nature, or a unique culture, there are many things to do outside of Nashville.
👉🏼10 Best Weekend Trips From Nashville TN (With Hotel Names)
So plan exciting day trips from Nashville, TN, this weekend and share your experiences about cities close to Nashville TN.
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