fun day trips around nashville

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Best Day Trips From Nashville Worth The Visit

February 16, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are looking for the best day trips from Nashville , you have come to the right place! Nashville has great good, an amazing country music scene, and so much culture! But as the capital and most populous city of Tennessee , sometimes it is nice to get out of town and explore somewhere new! Whether you’re looking for a new city, scenic views, fun and interesting things to do, or charming small towns, this list will have the perfect place for you!

The destinations below are categorized by how long it will take you to get there, less than an hour, 1-2 hours, etcetera. These trips can be done in a day, but some of them deserve a couple days to fully explore and enjoy! The list of things to do outside of Nashville would be remiss if we didn’t include the best weekend trips from Nashville!

The area surrounding Nashville is beautiful and although our destinations are amazing, the journey is worth your time as well! So fill up the car, pack some snacks, and get ready to see some of the best short trips from Nashville, Tennessee!

Best Nashville Day Trips Within 0-1 hours

Franklin [35 minutes].

Only a 35 minute drive south from Nashville, Franklin is one of the best short trips from Nashville! This small, historic town is the perfect destination if you’re looking for somewhere to slow down and experience that famous southern hospitality! You are going to want to put this on your Weekend In Nashville Itinerary!

Named one of the “50 Best Places to Travel in 2022” by Travel + Leisure, Franklin is a special spot. Their Main Street is nationally recognized for its historic significance. Both Center House and Carnton Plantation are key sites to the American Civil War’s 1864 Battle of Franklin!

Boutiques, distilleries, over ten murals scattered throughout the town, Franklin is one of the great Nashville day trips!

Cedars of Lebanon State Park [35 minutes]

A quick 35 minute drive east will take you to Cedars of Lebanon State Park, one of the best dog friendly day trips from Nashville. Named for the eastern red cedars found throughout the property, early Americans were reminded of the Biblical cedars that grew on Mount Lebanon, hence the name Cedars of Lebanon.

Sprawling over a thousand acres, Cedars of Lebanon has over ten miles of hiking trails where hikers often see fox, deer and other wildlife. Dogs are allowed on the trails and on campsites, but must be leashed or caged at all times!

The park is also a big spot for birders and herbalists as there are 19 different endangered plants within the park. Cedars of Lebanon State Park is a great outdoorsy day trip from Nashville.

Nolensville [29 minutes]

Nolensville is the perfect place to escape for an afternoon. With cozy boutiques and small town vibes, Nolensville is one of the best things to do outside of Nashville TN! This is also the perfect place to go if you are having your bachelorette party in Nashville!

At Serendipity, you can pick out and paint pottery for your own home. With the short drive, picking it up after it’s been fired in the kiln will not be a problem! Whether its a custom ornament for a gift, or painting your own dishware for future entertaining, painting your own pottery is a memory to last a lifetime!

The Nolensville Feed Mill and The Amish House have handcrafted Amish furniture, food, candy, and other locally made products. Nolensville is definitely one of the craftiest short trips from Nashville!

Day Trips From Nashville between 1 -2 Hours 

Cummins falls [1.25 hours].

A little over an hour east from Nashville will take you to Cummins Falls State Park! This adventurous day use park is just shy of 300 acres and is one of the most dog friendly day trips from Nashville!

Cummins Falls is named for their 75 foot waterfall that locals have been swimming in for the last 100 years! The waterfall is Tennessee’s eighth largest waterfall in terms of volume and it is absolutely breathtaking. There are two hikes into the gorge; one is a mile and the other is a mile and a half. Both routes are steep with uneven terrain so its best to bring proper footwear!

Pack a picnic, grab your pup and swimsuit, and spend a wonderful day at Cummins Falls State Park, one of the more outdoorsy short trips from Nashville!

Waverly [1.25 hours]

With a population of only 4000, Waverly gives small town vibes while still full of so much to do! From history to the arts, Waverly is one of the best day trips near Nashville, Tennessee!

Perhaps the most visited attraction in Waverly is country music star Loretta Lynn’s Ranch and Campground. On property there is camping, cabin rentals, canoeing, fishing, hiking trails, a western town and gift shop, as well as Loretta and Mooney’s century old plantation home.

Also in Waverly are state historic areas, a wildlife refuge, and the Blue Creek Nature Center. Waverly has a little bit of everything depending on what you’re looking for and would make a great day trip from Nashville for families! This is truly one of the best places for camping near Nashville!

Pulaski [1.25 hours]

Pulaski is one of the best short trips from Nashville because it has everything. There are plenty of options to play, learn or dine!

One of the most fun attractions is the Milky Way Farm which was founded by the creator of Mars Inc. (that’s right, the candy bar company Mars Inc!). The twenty bedroom and 14 bath manor has secret doorways that lead to secret passageways and has left guests mystified for years! The house itself with American Chestnut beams and a custom built forty seat table, the manor is a work of art.

There are coffee shops, vineyards, bbq joints, delis, and restaurants galore in this charming town of the South. Pulaski is one of the most entertaining day trips from Nashville for families!

Lynchburg [1.5 hours]

There are plenty of reasons to make the hour and a half drive to Lynchburg, but the biggest reason is for the Jack Daniels Distillery! Lynchburg is one of the most fun day trips near Nashville for adults!

This small town of 5,500 residents draws 250,000 visitors every year. Tucked in the hills of Moore County, the Jack Daniels Distillery is the oldest registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Every ounce of Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey is till produced there. To tour the distillery is free and for guest who are 21 and over, a tasting tour is only $10!

After the tour, you can also visit Lynchburg’s 100 year old courthouse, their charming downtown square, antique shopping, and so much more. If the need arises, there are many quaint hotels and bed and breakfasts to choose from. Lynchburg is one of the most fun Nashville day trips!

Mammoth Cave National Park [1.5 hours]

Mammoth Cave National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve! A short drive from Nashville allows you to witness the longest known cave system and thousands of years of human history! Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the more educational day trips from Nashville for families!

Actually located in Kentucky , Mammoth Caves have a rich history. From aiding the United States in the War of 1812 to being worked on by African Americans at all stages of its discovery.

There are many different tours to choose between from wheelchair accessible options to crawling tours. Your group is sure to be amazed and entertained at Mammoth Caves National Park, one of the most adventurous day trips from Nashville!

Chattanooga [2 hours]

Named by Lonely Planet as one of the “10 U.S. Destinations You Need To See” and by the New York Times as one of the “Top 45 Places to Go” in the world, Chattanooga is one of the best weekend trips from Nashville!

Only two hours from Nashville, it does not need to be a weekend getaway, but with so much to do in Chattanooga , we definitely recommend finding a cute hotel and making a mini vacation out of the trip! You can go ziplining, take a ghost tour, visit Ruby Falls, or take a scenic trip with the Chattanooga Riverboat Company! There are museums, zoos, a railroad, and so much more!

Chattanooga has all the makings for one of the best get out of Nashville weekend trips!

Huntsville [2 hours]

Just over the state line into Alabama is a high tech city with a historical legacy! Huntsville is one of the best day trips from Nashville for families!

In Huntsville Alabama you will find the U.S. Space and Rocket Center! With one of the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia on display, touring the center is a must! There is a planetarium show and an exhibit detailing the science of Guinness World Records! You can also take part in a 20 minute experience aboard the Discovery Shuttle simulator!

Huntsville is a great destination for people of all ages and is one of the most educational things to do outside of Nashville!

Day Trips From Nashville Over 2 Hours

Gatlinburg [4 hours].

Gatlinburg has a little bit of everything and that makes it one of the best day trips from Nashville for families! Since it is a four hour drive, we do recommend making this one into a Nashville weekend getaways!

Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains is always going to be on the list of things to do because they are so beautiful and unique to the South. But if your family or group is looking more to be entertained, Gatlinburg has you covered! SkyLift Park is all in the air! Their SkyLift chairs are 1,800 feet above sea level. The SkyBridge offers unique views of the Smoky Mountains and the town of Gatlinburg.

The Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and Penguin Playhouse will entertain with facts and fun things to experience. This doesn’t even scratch the surface of everything to do in Gatlinburg ! Please make this one of the best weekend trips from Nashville!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park [3 hours]

As the most biodiverse of the National Parks, the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks is one of the best dog friendly day trips from Nashville, Tennessee! Being three hours gives this location the flexibility of being a day trip or one of the best weekend trips from Nashville!

The Great Smoky Mountains offer beautiful views no matter you hiking skill level. The Newfound Gap is accessible through just driving to the parking lot! For more adventurous hikers, Charlie’s Bunion is a popular spot and is reached by an eight mile round trip strenuous hike on the Appalachian Trail! Chimney Tops Trail is also a very popular hike is shorter at only four miles round trip!

No matter which way you decide to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it is one of the more beautiful vacation spots near Nashville!

Graceland [3 hours]

This destination is for anyone who loves music, loves rock and roll, or loves people who changed the trajectory of history! Home of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, Graceland is one of the most fun weekend trips from Nashville!

Graceland is 120 acres of information about Elvis. Guests can explore his mansion on a tour, see his gold records and jeweled jumpsuits! You will also get the opportunity to see his impressive collection of classic cars! There is also a resort on property if you want to stay in The Guest House at Graceland!

Located near Memphis , it is one of the most American culture type vacation spots near Nashville!

Calhoun [3 hours]

We couldn’t finish this list without a spot in Georgia! At three hours away, Calhoun is one of the best weekend trips from Nashville! There is no shortage of things to do in Calhoun and it is fun for the whole family!

Perhaps the most interesting attraction in Calhoun is The Rock Garden. Put together by the Seventh Day Adventist Church the Rock Garden is considered a place of prayer. They have made castles, archways, little towns, a coliseum, all out of rocks. The surrounding flowers add to the majestic gardens.

Calhoun has a number of wonderful parks for the kids to play, an outlet marketplace to do some shopping, and state historic sites! Calhoun is one of the best day trips from Nashville for families!

Dollywood [3.25 hours]

It is hard to imagine a better day trip from Nashville for families than Dollywood! Dolly Parton wanted to open a theme park in her home town, but she didn’t want to tread on the park already there — Silver Dollar City. The owners reached out in 1986 and proposed a partnership that she quickly agreed to! Dollywood was born!

The theme park portion of Dollywood has over 40 attractions for all ages! Several roller coasters, a carousel, a train and so much more! “Splash Country” waterpark has over 15 attractions and space for the whole family to have a great day in the water. Both parks offer breathtaking views of the Great Smokey Mountains. Both parks advertise entertainment such as dinner shows, stampedes and so much more. The food is amazing as well! Included on property is a resort and cabins should you choose to stay!

Dollywood is definitively one of the best vacation spots near Nashville!

• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from Nashville, TN

Last Updated By VI on April 23, 2024 in Tennessee Day Trips & Weekend Getaways

Mammoth Cave National Park (1 hour 20 min)

Stones river national battlefield (35 min), cumberland caverns (1 hour 35 min), land between the lakes national recreation area (1 hour 40 min).

• Complete List & Map

1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 42259, Phone: 270-758-2180

More ideas: Smoky Mountains Campgrounds

1437 Cumberland Caverns Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110-4673, Phone: 931-668-4396

More ideas: Day Trips from Chattanooga

Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home at Knob Creek (2 hour 10 min)

More ideas: Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains

Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park (2 hours 10 min)

More ideas: Day Trips from Knoxville, TN

US Space and Rocket Museum (1 hour 50 min)

More ideas: Family-Friendly Things to Do in Tennessee

Dunbar Cave State Park

More ideas: Tennessee Beaches

Loretta Lynn's Ranch (1 hour 10 min Day Trip from Nashville)

44 Hurricane Mills Rd, Hurricane Mills, TN 37078-2147, Phone: 931-296-7700

Rock Island State Park (1 hour 35 min)

82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, TN 38581-4200, Phone: 931-686-2471

Historic Diamond Caverns (1 hour 20 min)

More ideas: Waterfalls in Tennessee

Carter House (30 min)

1140 Columbia Ave, Franklin, TN 37064-3617, Phone: 615-791-1861

Cedars of Lebanon State Park (35 min)

328 Cedar Forest Rd, Lebanon, TN 37090-7678, Phone: 615-443-2769

Rock City Gardens (2 hours 5 min)

More ideas: Things to Do in Lebanon

Obed Wild and Scenic River (2 hours)

More ideas: Smoky Mountain Getaways

Natchez Trace Parkway (3 hours 30 min)

More ideas: Day Trips from Tennessee

Bourbon Heritage Center (2 hours 20 min)

1311 Gilkey Run Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004-2201, Phone: 502-337-1000

Jack Daniel Distillery

182 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, TN 37352-7452, Phone: 931-759-6357

Tennessee Aquarium (2 hour Day Trip from Nashville)

1 Broad St, Aquarium Plaza, Chattanooga, TN 37402-1023, Phone: 800-262-0695

Old Stone Fort State Park (1 hour)

732 Stone Fort Dr, Manchester, TN 37355-3024, Phone: 931-723-5073 , ( website link )

Fall Creek Falls State Park (2 hours)

10821 Park Rd, Pikeville, TN 37367, Phone: 423-881-5298

Cathedral Caverns State Park (2 hours 20 min)

More ideas: Things to do in Gallatin

Montgomery Bell State Park

Travelers who want a real taste of the outdoors can opt to stay at one of the park’s camping sites or hook up at RV parks in the area. 1020 Jackson Hill Road, Burns, Tennessee 37029; Phone: 615-797-9052

Port Royal State Historic Area (45 min Day Trip from Nashville, TN)

3300 Old Clarksville Spgfld Rd, Adams, TN 37010-8911, Phone: 800-250-8614

• 1. Mammoth Cave National Park (1 hour 20 min)
• 2. Stones River National Battlefield (35 min)
• 3. Cumberland Caverns (1 hour 35 min)
• 4. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (1 hour 40 min)
• 5. Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home at Knob Creek (2 hour 10 min)
• 6. Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park (2 hours 10 min)
• 7. US Space and Rocket Museum (1 hour 50 min)
• 8. Dunbar Cave State Park
• 9. Loretta Lynn's Ranch (1 hour 10 min Day Trip from Nashville)
• 10. Rock Island State Park (1 hour 35 min)
• 11. Historic Diamond Caverns (1 hour 20 min)
• 12. Carter House (30 min)
• 13. Cedars of Lebanon State Park (35 min)
• 14. Rock City Gardens (2 hours 5 min)
• 15. Obed Wild and Scenic River (2 hours)
• 16. Natchez Trace Parkway (3 hours 30 min)
• 17. Bourbon Heritage Center (2 hours 20 min)
• 18. Jack Daniel Distillery
• 19. Tennessee Aquarium (2 hour Day Trip from Nashville)
• 20. Old Stone Fort State Park (1 hour)
• 21. Fall Creek Falls State Park (2 hours)
• 22. Cathedral Caverns State Park (2 hours 20 min)
• 23. Montgomery Bell State Park
• 24. Port Royal State Historic Area (45 min Day Trip from Nashville, TN)

Regardless of your budget and taste for adventure, you will find a diverse selection of things to do around the Nashville area even if you just have a day. There is a huge network of spectacular caves, deep gorges, magnificent waterfalls near Nashville , historical sites, as well as parks which offer horseback riding, ziplining and rock climbing. If you decide to extend your stay, you can choose from many great Tennessee resorts .

More Features

25 Best Day Trips from Chattanooga, TN

25 Best Day Trips from Tennessee

25 Best Tennessee National & State Parks

• --> Conclusion

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

37 Best Day Trips From Nashville — Places Nearby!

Tennessee’s capital, Nashville, might seem like a city where it is difficult to get bored, but everyone needs a break from where they live!

Even if you only temporarily reside in Nashville, taking a day off to visit and explore a new attraction or city can enrich your mind and make for a fun time out.

There are actually probably hundreds of places you could visit that are only a few hours away from Nashville.

Choosing from them can sound a bit complicated, which is why this post contains a list of some of the best day trips from Nashville.

Let’s take a look!

1. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park

110 Point Park Rd Lookout Mountain, TN 37350 (706) 866-9241

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park spans two cities, Chickamauga in Georgia and Chattanooga in Tennessee.

This military park and the two cities that it covers mark some of the sites of the American Civil War, although it was later also used for the Spanish-American War.

This national military park can take you a little more than two hours to make the journey by car from Nashville.

If you are interested in the history of the nation, this can definitely be a compelling and informative place to visit.

Some locations that you can visit in this park include the Chattanooga Visitor Center, Chickamauga Battlefield, Moccasin Bend, Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain Battlefield and Point Park.

You can also take hikes, guided tours, bike rides and horse rides here while also having the option to boat and have picnics.

2. Jack Daniel’s Distillery

280 Lynchburg Hwy Lynchburg, TN 37352 (931) 759-6357

A 1.5-hour drive can get you from Nashville to Jack Daniel’s Distillery, where the internationally loved whiskey originates from and is produced.

The distillery is located in Lynchburg in Tennessee and is the place where all the magic happens.

If you are a particular enthusiast of this brand of whiskey, you can drive to it and take a guided tour that can help you learn about how they produce the whiskey and what kind of machinery, equipment and processes they make use of.

There are different kinds of tours you can opt for; some might tell you the workings of the distillery and some stories attached to the history of this whiskey, while some might also offer additional perks like tastings and meal courses.

3. Obed Wild and Scenic River

208 Maiden St Wartburg, TN 37887 (423) 346-6294

The Obed Wild and Scenic River is located around 2.5 hours away from Nashville, making for an enjoyable road trip to and from the river.

Steep gorge walls surround Obed River, which originates in Cumberland County in Tennessee and flows on ahead while also branching out into numerous tributaries.

The Cumberland Plateau is where you can go to catch a glimpse of this river and have a nice little picnic along its bed.

A variety of outdoor adventures are also on offer here, especially whitewater rafting, apart from boating and fishing or hiking and biking along the river.

You can additionally access the visitor center nearby along with the Nemo Picnic Area.

Many guided tours and ranger programs are available too, including stargazing evenings at the International Dark Sky Park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn Harriman

4. Carter House

1140 Columbia Ave Franklin, TN 37064 (615) 791-1861

Carter House is a State Historic Site located in Franklin, Tennessee and is accessible by road through a mere 25-minute drive from Nashville.

This house marks the site where a family called the Carter family hid during the second Battle of Franklin while also later being captured by the army.

This is also one of the sites forming the larger Franklin Battlefield region, so if this side of history is something you are interested in, you can tour the town of Franklin and explore all nearby battlefield locations, including this house.

This house also forms a significant example of federal architecture and contains three other buildings on the property that you can check out for additional tours.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Harpeth Downtown Franklin, Curio Collection by Hilton

5. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

238 Visitor Center Dr Golden Pond, KY 42211 (800) 525-7077

Nashville trips to the Lank Between the Lakes National Recreation Area can take you away from the city and into serenity, tranquility and adventure.

This national recreation area can take you 1.5 hours to reach from Nashville.

This region actually spans parts of the states of both Tennessee and Kentucky, falling between Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake.

The lakes themselves were formed as a result of dam activity, with the region later becoming a vital location for a variety of flora and fauna.

If you plan on visiting this land, you can take your time to observe some of the birds and animals that gather here while also embarking on adventures in the form of hikes, bike rides, horse rides, picnics, boat rides, catching fish and lots more.

You must also visit the Elk and Bison Prairie, Planetarium and Observatory and Woodlands Nature Station.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kenlake State Resort Park

Related: Activities in Nashville

Sewanee is located in Franklin County in Tennessee and is a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville.

This place houses The University of the South, a reputed liberal arts college in the state, so if you plan on visiting, it is likely for you to enjoy the events, exhibits, performances, concerts and festivals on offer by the students of this college.

Apart from this university, there are several other attractions you can explore, such as The Cross, Sewanee Angel Park, Cowan Railroad Museum and Downtown Sewanee.

Downtown is also where you can find some quaint shops and stores in addition to some delightful dining experiences.

You can also enjoy the Angel Fest and the Friday Nights in the Park concert and food series.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Monteagle TN

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Nashville

7. Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park

732 Stone Fort Dr Manchester, TN 37355 (888) 867-2757

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park is only an hour’s drive from Nashville.

Situated in Coffee County in Tennessee, this park houses a prehistoric Native American construction that forms one of the main attractions of this park.

The Old Stone Fort rests on a peninsula with the rivers passing by, forming a waterfall called the Big Falls that you can access through this park, making for a gorgeous sight.

There are stone walls and formations that constitute this fort, although it is unclear what the fort was actually used for.

You can additionally access the Old Stone Fort Museum here to find out more about the area.

You can also undertake activities like hiking, birding, fishing, camping or participating in one of the events.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Manchester

Also See: Day Trips From Memphis, TN Day Trips From Chattanooga

8. Cathedral Caverns State Park

637 Cave Rd Woodville, AL 35776 (256) 728-8193

Cathedral Caverns State Park is situated in Kennamer Cove in the state of Alabama but only takes a little more than two hours for you to drive down to it from Nashville.

This park is a National Natural Landmark and includes various caves and structures that you can tour, some of which include Bats Cave, the Goliath stalagmite, Big Room, Mystery River and a flowstone calcite waterfall in the cave.

There are several established walkways and paths in the cavern and across the park that you can make use of.

Apart from taking tours of the cave, you can also indulge in some other activities like picnicking, hiking, gemstone mining and camping.

There is plenty of greenery around the caves for you to enjoy too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Paradise Cove Cabin

9. Abraham Lincoln’s Boyhood Home

7120 Bardstown Rd Hodgenville, KY 42748 (502) 549-3741

Abraham Lincoln’s Boyhood Home is located at Knob Creek in Kentucky, taking you slightly over two hours to drive to it from Nashville.

Knob Creek Farm was where Abraham Lincoln spent five years of his life from ages two to seven, with this small stonehouse appearing in many of his recollections in the letters he went on to write as well.

The farm continues to preserve his boyhood home, allowing visitors to tour it and learn more about Lincoln’s past.

This location contains two main structures called the Lincoln Tavern and the Gollaher Cabin.

This is now also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and can form a stop on your journey if you want to explore other locations associated with Abraham Lincoln.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Barrel House Bed & Breakfast

Related: Fun Weekend Trips in Tennessee

10. Huntsville

You can consider making Huntsville one of your destinations if you are looking for some Nashville day trips.

It will take you less than two hours to drive down from Nashville to Huntsville, allowing you to spend sufficient time in the city to look around.

There are lots of restaurants and breweries in Huntsville that you can enjoy while you are here.

There are many attractions that you should consider exploring too, such as the Huntsville Botanical Garden, Burritt on the Mountain, Alabama Constitution Hall Historic Park & Museum, Earlyworks Children’s Museum, Huntsville Museum of Art and others.

Additionally, you can choose to specially come down for one of its events like the Caribbean Day, Oakwood Farmers Market, Galaxy of Lights, Oktoberfest, Panoply Arts Festival, Huntsville Blooms and others.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 106 Jefferson Huntsville, Curio Collection by Hilton

11. Louisville

Louisville , in the state of Kentucky, is roughly a three-hour drive from Nashville if you choose to drive up to it, although you can also take a train or bus.

Located along one part of the Ohio River, there are many water-based recreational activities that you can try out during your day here while also grabbing a meal or drink from one of the city’s many restaurants or pubs.

Definitely sip on some bourbon, especially since Louisville is nicknamed Bourbon City.

Louisville is home to many events and festivals that you can attend, some of which include the Kentucky Derby, Great Balloon Race, Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, Forecastle Festival and First Friday Hop, among others.

You can also visit the museums, galleries, arts centers and sports complexes here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Brown Hotel

Related: Weekend Getaways From Columbus

Also See: Day Trips From Knoxville, TN

12. Loretta Lynn’s Ranch

8000 Highway 13 South Hurricane Mills, TN 37078 (931) 296-7700

Loretta Lynn’s Ranch is the place to visit not only for fans of Loretta Lynn and country music but also for simply exploring the countryside and basking in some fresh air.

This ranch is located in Hurricane Mills in Tennessee and is only a little over an hour’s car journey from Nashville.

This ranch rests on nearly 3,000 acres of land that includes the main ranch building, cabins, RV and tent campgrounds, open fields and meadows, picnic areas, a pool and the adjacent Hurricane Creek.

You can hike, bike, host private events, attend concerts, enjoy the country food, take tours of the property and boat, kayak or canoe in the creek.

Many interactive events also take place here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hurricane Mills Waverly, an IHG Hotel

13. Memphis

Even though Nashville and Memphis are both in Tennessee, you will need to drive for three hours to make your journey to and from Memphis, although this can certainly be a fun experience that can also make you witness some lovely views along the way.

Memphis is well known for being a musical landmark, so you can easily catch some concerts or performances here while also visiting locations like Beale Street, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and Memphis Music Hall of Fame.

Some other interesting attractions here include the National Civil Rights Museum, Mississippi Riverfront, Memphis Zoo, Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Victorian Village, Cotton Museum, Mud Island and Shelby Farms Park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: River Inn of Harbor Town

14. Franklin

Franklin is a city in Tennessee that is only a 30-minute drive from Nashville.

Apart from its importance as a historical landmark for the civil war, there are actually many other activities and locations that can pique your interest here.

For instance, you can visit places like The Factory at Franklin, Franklin on Foot Tours, Towhee Club, Fort Granger, Liberty Park, Aspen Grove Park, Franklin Theater and historic Main Street.

You can find many shops, restaurants, bars, museums and galleries along with recreational opportunities here.

You can also visit this city just to attend events and festivals commonly held here, such as the Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival, Pumpkinfest, Main Street Festival, Annual Fall Festival and others.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville Franklin

15. Arrington Vineyards

6211 Patton Rd Arrington, TN 37014 (615) 395-0102

For places to visit near Nashville, you can drive to Arrington Vineyards, located only 30-35 minutes away from the city.

You can visit this vineyard on any day of the week, although you might need to make reservations to ensure that you get the best possible experience.

There are many tastings that you can participate in while you are here, in addition to special experiences such as signature tastings and course meals.

You can also book the private Wine Loft here to enjoy a more intimate time with your friends and family.

There are several tables kept outdoors that overlook open fields, forests and hills, although you can also sit on a picnic blanket on the grass and spend hours on end.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Franklin – Berry Farms, an IHG Hotel

16. Rock Island State Park

82 Beach Rd Rock Island, TN 38581 (888) 867-2757

Rock Island State Park is a sprawling state park in Tennessee measuring almost 900 acres.

This state park is a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville, with its land formation resting on the points where the Caney Fork, Collins River and Rocky Rivers meet.

As a result, there is an abundance of water in this state park, allowing you to participate in water activities and sports like boating, swimming (in designated areas), fishing, playboating and whitewater rafting.

You can also hike and bike along one of the many trails in this park.

The Center Hill Lake here also has a sandy beach.

Here, you should visit the Twin Falls, Great Falls Gorge, Spring Castle and Great Falls Cotton Mill.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Mcminnville, TN

Paris is a city in Tennessee that is a two-hour drive from Nashville.

It is named after its European counterpart and also contains a 70-foot model of the Eiffel Tower that you can visit.

This model is situated in the Eiffel Tower Park, where you can enjoy the gardens, tennis courts, soccer grounds, swimming pools, a splash zone as well as several play areas.

You can visit other sites here like the Krider Performing Arts Center, Paris Landing State Park, Kentucky Lake and several other reputed restaurants, eateries and pubs.

Downtown Paris is definitely a place to visit for a pleasant stroll, where you can explore some charming shops and stores.

You can also enjoy the markets and festivals here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn

18. Jesse James Riding Stables

3057 Mammoth Cave Rd Cave City, KY 42127 (270) 773-2560

What was once Kentucky Action Park is now Jesse James Riding Stables in Cave City in the state of Kentucky.

These riding stables are a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville and can make for a thrilling and exciting day out, especially if you have kids you want to bring along.

There are riding stables here that can allow you to take a two-mile trail with an assigned horse, which can take you around an hour to complete.

Apart from this horse ride, you can also spend your time touring and exploring the Outlaw Cave, which is full of flowstone waterfalls and beautiful columns and formations.

A mini golf course is available here too that you can wrap your day up with.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Cave City

19. Waverly

Waverly is a small city in Tennessee that has a pretty small population, making for a quiet yet fun getaway from Nashville.

The trip from Nashville to Waverly should take you an hour and 15 minutes if you take your car.

There are plenty of attractions you can explore here in Waverly, some of which include the Waverly Explosion Memorial Caboose, Humphrey’s County Museum and Civil War Fort, Humphrey’s County Veteran Memorial, Buffalo River, Johnsonville State Historic Area and Mi-De-Ga Theater.

You can stroll around town and explore the shops, restaurants and bars while also boating or canoeing on the river.

Many events take place here throughout the year including performances, festival celebrations and markets.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Historic Cabin

20. Cumberland Caverns

1437 Cumberland Caverns Rd McMinnville, TN 37110 (931) 668-4396

You can find the Cumberland Caverns in McMinnville, Tennessee, located around 1.5 hours away from Nashville.

Visiting this attraction can be a great way for you to spend your day, especially since you can take time to explore one of the longest caves in the state as well as the country.

There are many tours that take place here, including walking tours, night tours, educational tours and general exploration.

There is a room here called Volcano Room that often hosts music events, making for a unique experience.

There are many limestone structures and formations here that you can view along with specific locations like Monument Pillar, Ball’s Pit, Bubblegum Alley and Crystal Palace.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cumberland Mtn Cabin

21. Cedars of Lebanon State Park

328 Cedar Forest Rd Lebanon, TN 37090 (888) 867-2757

Cedars of Lebanon State Park is a must-visit if you are looking for things to do outside Nashville .

This state park is located in Wilson County in Tennessee and is only a 35-minute drive from Nashville.

This state park is full of cedar glades due to the abundance of limestone in the region that facilitates its growth.

This can provide a beautiful forest cover in this state park, making for a pleasing and serene visit during your day off.

There are numerous campsites and picnic areas here that you can take advantage of while also exploring the caves and hiking trails in this state park.

Visit the Merritt Nature Center for some exhibits and play a game at the disc golf space here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Lebanon

22. U.S. Space and Rocket Center

1 Tranquility Base Huntsville, AL 35805 (800) 637-7223

It can take you a little less than two hours to make the car journey from Nashville to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Alabama.

This center is a huge museum that is definitely worth spending the day at with your kids if you are interested in what it has to offer.

The museum houses several rockets, photographs and samples from many of the country’s space explorations and programs.

There are thousands of exhibits here that you can check out in addition to various interactive elements that you can enjoy here.

Temporary and permanent exhibits tend to take place here too, along with camp programs.

Often, the center plays host to events and activities that you and your kids can take part in.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Huntsville

23. Stones River National Battlefield

3501 Old Nashville Hwy Murfreesboro, TN 37129 (615) 893-9501

Stones River National Battlefield is a huge park in Tennessee that is only a 35-minute drive from Nashville.

This park spans around 570 acres and is situated along the Stones River, thus earning part of its name.

This location also marks the site where the Battle of Stones River took place during the American Civil War.

The Stones River National Cemetery is located within the premises of this park as well.

There are many collections and historical artifacts placed throughout this park that you can look at in addition to the naturally rich elements here.

You can spend your day learning about the history of this region while also hiking the trails in this park and having a relaxing picnic.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Murfreesboro

Related: Best Restaurants in Murfreesboro

24. Rock City Gardens

1400 Patten Rd Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 (706) 820-2531

Rock City Gardens is located on Lookout Mountain and in the state of Georgia, requiring you to take a two-hour car journey from Nashville.

There are various kinds of rock formations and multiple gardens here that you can enjoy looking at while also taking in breathtaking views.

There are several trails that you can take through the gardens that can take you to the observation points where you can look at the other faraway mountains, forests, cities and valleys.

There are many art installations scattered across the gardens that you can enjoy viewing, not to mention that many exhibits, shows and events take place here.

You can also spot several birds, plants and animals, especially raptors and falcons.

Dining options are available too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites Chattanooga I-24/Lookout Mountain

25. Evansville

You can visit Evansville in Indiana by just driving for less than 2.5 hours from Nashville.

This can allow you a day to take in the sights and carry out some activities in the city, including visiting parks and undertaking outdoor recreation while also having hearty meals and refreshing drinks.

There are many places you can visit in Evansville, such as the Historic Bosse Field, Victory Theater, Ford Center, Angel Mounds State Park, Mesker Park Zoo, Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science and Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve, among others.

Further, this city is home to captivating festivals like West Side Nut Club Fall Festival, Germania Männerchor Volksfest, Lunch on the Lawn, Evansville Oktoberfest, ParksFest Music Festival and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Evansville

Related: Weekend Getaways Near St Louis, MO

26. Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway can be a great place to visit for a one day trip from Nashville.

It can take you a little over four hours to reach this location from Nashville, so it would be a good idea to start earlier than usual.

This location is actually a recreational trail or road that spans nearly 450 miles.

This forest trail has diverse flora and fauna that you can spot on your journey.

Many parts of this parkway trail are also included in the National Register of Historic Places.

Although you can enjoy a lovely road trip across this parkway, you can also go on hikes and bike rides while also camping out at one of the sites.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Bellevue/Nashville I-40 West

27. Leiper’s Fork

Leiper’s Fork is a small village in Tennessee that is only a 35-minute drive from Nashville.

It can definitely take you away from the big city and allow you to enjoy some fresh air along with the charm of a village.

This village is close to the town of Franklin and is well known for the events and festivals that it tends to host every year, such as concerts, performances, music festivals, marathons, turkey shoots, parades and lots more.

This village also contains several breweries, wineries and distilleries that can make for a nice visit during your day here.

Leiper’s Fork has some local attractions like Country Boy, Pickin’ Corner, Leiper’s Creek Gallery, Copper Fox Gallery and others.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Franklin Berry Farms, TN

28. Fall Creek Falls State Park

2009 Village Camp Rd Spencer, TN 38585 (888) 867-2757

Fall Creek Falls State Park spans as many as 26,000 acres and rests on the Cane Creek Gorge.

This state park in Tennessee can take you a little over two hours to make the car journey from Nashville.

This state park primarily includes Fall Creek Falls, a waterfall that is over 250 feet high.

There are, however, many other waterfalls and rock formations in this park too that you can have a good time viewing.

There are several caves, trails and viewpoints here, including the Camps Gulf Cave, Lost Creek Cave, Cane Creek Overlook, Gorge Trail, Buzzard’s Roost, Rocky Point Overlook and others.

The park includes a golf course as well in addition to recreation options like hiking, biking and camping.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grandview Experience Lodge

29. Mammoth Cave National Park

Kentucky (270) 758-2180

Mammoth Cave National Park is located in the state of Kentucky and can take you less than 1.5 hours in the car from Nashville.

This national park includes a large part of the Mammoth Cave, which is essentially the longest cave in the world.

The park spans 52,830 acres, with the cave including several accessible formations, structures and rooms that you can visit as part of a guided tour.

Of these, the most popular tour is the Echo River Tour in which you can ride a boat across a river situated underground inside the cave.

There are several animal species and fossils in this cave.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express – Horse Cave, an IHG Hotel

30. Knoxville

Knoxville in Tennessee is a city that can take you less than three hours to make the journey from Nashville.

This is one of the largest cities in Tennessee that can give you plenty of options in terms of recreation.

For instance, you can visit some local attractions like the University of Tennessee, Bleak House, Bijou Theater, Three Rivers Rambler Train Ride, World’s Fair Park, Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum, Knoxville Museum of Art, Old City, Frank H. McClung Museum and others.

There are several nearby lakes and rivers along with parks, skate parks, disc golf spaces and more that can offer outdoor activities.

You can find many wineries, breweries, distilleries and food truck parks here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Tennessean Personal Luxury Hotel

31. Diamond Caverns

1900 Mammoth Cave Pkwy Park City, KY 42160 (270) 749-2233

Diamond Caverns can be a wonderful option if you are in search of scenic places near Nashville.

This is actually a cave located in Park City in the state of Kentucky, although it takes less than 1.5 hours for you to make the car journey from Nashville.

There are hour-long guided tours that you can take in the Diamond Caverns that can allow you to explore all the limestone formations and structures throughout the cave.

Some of these can offer some resplendent and breathtaking views.

There are walkways and LED lights that make the cave safe and accessible to a large extent.

Make sure you book your tour in advance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Cave City, KY

32. Port Royal State Historic Park

3300 Old Clarksville Hwy Adams, TN 37010 (888) 867-2757

Port Royal State Historic Park is situated in Adams, Tennessee and is only a 45-minute drive from Nashville.

This can provide you with plenty of time to spend your day, although the park itself only spans 26 acres.

You can make your way to the Red River that separates this park into two halves.

This can make for a great place to have a picnic or take a stroll.

Many trails are present in this park for you to hike or bike.

This park contains many historic roads and checkpoints that you can look at to understand the history of the area.

Guided tours also take place along with programs and events that can take you through the park in a more enriching manner.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Clarksville

33. South Pittsburg

South Pittsburg is a city in Tennessee that is 1.5 hours away from Nashville.

This attractive little city can be found at the base of the South Cumberland Mountains and along the Tennessee River, making for some picturesque views from several parts of town.

There are many unique and charming shops, buildings and structures in this city that you can enjoy looking at, not to mention that the restaurants and bars can considerably improve your experience too.

The National Cornbread Festival is a vital staple of this city, which you can consider visiting.

There are many parks and attractions here like Moore Park, Loyd Park and River Park, most of which offer courts, pavilions, docks, boat ramps and playgrounds.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Kimball

34. Dollywood

2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 (800) 365-5996

Dollywood is a theme park in Tennessee that is a 3.5-hour drive from Nashville.

This park is owned and managed by Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment and can offer several thrills and adventures, including rides and splash zones.

Apart from this, there are many areas like the Rivertown Junction, Showstreet, Country Fair, Craftsman’s Valley, Adventures in Imagination, Wildwood Grove and others that you and your kids can enjoy together.

Interestingly, this theme park is known for some of its major festivals, like the Barbeque and Bluegrass Festival, Festival of Nations, Summer Celebration, Harvest Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas, among others.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Margaritaville Island Hotel

35. Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center

1311 Gilkey Run Rd Bardstown, KY 40004 (502) 337-1000

Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center is located in Kentucky and is a 2.5-hour drive from Nashville.

If you are a bourbon drinker and enthusiast, this center should definitely be on your list for day trips, especially if you have friends or partners to take along.

This distillery is family owned and can take you through important processes and techniques involved in making this kind of whiskey.

You can also take part in guided tours while also opting for packages that can provide you with tastings along with meals to go with the bourbon.

You can also buy your own bottles of whiskey by assembling them from scratch.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bardstown

36. Tennessee Aquarium

1 Broad St Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 265-0695

The Tennessee Aquarium is located in Chattanooga and is a two-hour drive from Nashville.

You can spend an entire day here, especially if you plan on coming with your kids and family.

This aquarium is situated along the Tennessee River and has many exhibits, including River Journey and Ocean Journey that provide displays and information about freshwater and saltwater species.

It also offers several other activities and sites that you can explore, such as a tour boat on the river and a 3D IMAX theater where you can watch and experience documentaries and movies.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Indigo Chattanooga – Downtown, an IHG Hotel

37. Mentone

Mentone is a town in the state of Alabama that is situated on the Lookout Mountain.

This town is approximately a 2.5-hour car ride from Nashville and tends to offer some scenic views and plenty of recreational opportunities, especially in the summer.

While you are here, make sure you take a stroll downtown to view the quaint shops, bars and restaurants.

There are some galleries and historic sites and buildings here too.

Some other attractions here include the Shade Grove Dude Ranch, DeSoto Falls and Mentone Arts and Cultural Center.

You can also visit this town for its seasonal and annual events and festivals that liven the place up.

The best day trips from Nashville are not that hard to find.

Now that you know what some of them are and what they entail, you can choose the ones you liked best and plan out your trip for the next time you have a day off from work.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Fort Payne I-59 exit 222

Map of Day Trips Near Nashville, TN

37 Best Day Trips from Nashville, TN for 2024

• Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
• Jack Daniel’s Distillery
• Obed Wild and Scenic River
• Carter House
• Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
• Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
• Cathedral Caverns State Park
• Abraham Lincoln’s Boyhood Home
• Loretta Lynn’s Ranch
• Arrington Vineyards
• Rock Island State Park
• Jesse James Riding Stables
• Cumberland Caverns
• Cedars of Lebanon State Park
• U.S. Space and Rocket Center
• Stones River National Battlefield
• Rock City Gardens
• Natchez Trace Parkway
• Leiper’s Fork
• Fall Creek Falls State Park
• Mammoth Cave National Park
• Diamond Caverns
• Port Royal State Historic Park
• South Pittsburg
• Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center
• Tennessee Aquarium

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Tennessee (TN) » 15 Best Day Trips from Nashville

15 Best Day Trips from Nashville

Nashville is Tennessee’s capital and most populous city and is particularly well-known for its abundant historic and country music attractions.

Many visitors to the city of nearly 700,000 have no problem finding fun and educational ways to occupy their time within city limits, but for those who’d rather get out into the country and explore less touristy attractions, there are a variety of options as well.

Though a number of guided tours originate in the city, many do-it-yourselfers opt for self-guided excursions to towns like Clarksville and Murfreesboro.

Below are 15 guided and unguided day-trip options that rank high on many visitor’s itineraries.

1. Civil War History Tour

During the Civil War, Nashville and small towns in the hinterlands saw their fair share of battles and skirmishes between Union and Confederate Troops.

One of the bloodiest and most historically significant battles took place in the town of Franklin; for lovers of history who’d like to spend a day delving into the area’s past, this seven-hour tour would be a great fit.

The package includes transportation to and from Nashville, and in addition to the battlefield tour and narration, there are side-excursions to three mid-19th century homes that give visitors unique insights into the lives of those who lived through the bloodiest chapter in American history.

2. Historic Tennessee Sightseeing Tour

Lovers of history, culture, and architecture who find themselves with a free day while visiting Nashville would be wise to consider the Historic Tennessee Sightseeing Tour.

The tour generally lasts between six and seven hours and includes stops at several historic homes, including The Hermitage, which was one of President Andrew Jackson’s residences in the early part of the 19th century.

Belle Meade Mansion is another of the tour’s centerpieces and one of the most well-preserved examples of Greek-Revival architecture in the American South. It was once a world-renowned horse breeding farm comprised of nearly 5,000 acres.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Nashville to Graceland Memphis VIP Tour

According to many music lovers and historians, Memphis is the undisputed birthplace of rock ‘n roll. For those staying in Nashville who don’t mind the drive, it’s one of those must-visit attractions.

Tour guests enjoy VIP access to Graceland, which includes Elvis’ burial site, the classic car museum, and the Jungle Room, to name a few. From there, guests will depart for famous Sun Studios.

Probably the most famous of all the country’s recording studios, Sun Studios has the distinction of being the first place Elvis ever recorded a song. It’s also hosted other musical greats over the years, like Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison.

4. Rural American Farm Tour

Though Nashville is a large urban center with plenty of in-city attractions, it doesn’t take long to get into some very rural areas once outside city limits

The Rural American Farm Tour has been designed for those interested in getting a unique look at farming, and the tour visits a number of farms that have clung to traditional methods while most others have eagerly embraced modernization.

In addition to touring farms, guests will meet farmers and learn more about the area’s history and culture than they ever thought possible. It’s all topped off with lunch at a popular locally-owned restaurant known for its hearty fare.

5. Long Hunter State Park

Murfreesboro’s Long Hunter State Park is comprised of more than 2,500 acres of natural and historical attractions that make it a popular day-trip option for those staying in Nashville.

The park is divided into four distinct areas and is a favorite destination for anglers, boaters, amateur photographers, hikers, and mountain bikers.

The park includes nearly 20 miles of multi-use trails that wind their way through a variety of habitats. In the Sella’s Farm portion of the park, there are Native American mound sites that date back more than 1,000 years.

Remember that if you plan on fishing, you’ll need a Tennessee fishing license.

6. Batey Farms

Pick-your-own farms are great places to spend a few hours enjoying the fresh air and getting your hands dirty, and they’re especially popular with those traveling with children.

Batey Farms is located in rural Rutherford County just a few miles outside Murfreesboro; it’s been owned and operated by the same family for eight generations.

The family farm primarily produces pork, corn, and a variety of berries. It’s a favorite late-summer and fall destination, when much of the produce is ready to be harvested.

There’s also a farm store on-site that offers a variety of products made on the farm, like bacon, sausages, and jam.

7. Historic Cannonsburgh Village

Located on South Front Street in downtown Murfreesboro, Historic Cannonsburgh Village is a unique and historically accurate recreation of what the downtown area looked like in the era between the early 19th and 20th centuries.

The village includes a historic schoolhouse, a wedding chapel, a general store, and a blacksmith’s shop. For many, it’s about as close to a trip into the past as they’re ever likely to get.

Guests usually spend about an hour showing themselves around, and the village is close enough to other area attractions to make it a good spot for those who’d rather explore on foot than by car.

8. Discovery Center

Since it was opened in 1986, the Discovery Center in Murfreesboro’s has been one of the area’s most popular children’s attractions; it’s full of engaging and educational interactive exhibits that touch on science, the natural world, art, and farming.

The discovery center is one of those places that generally ends up monopolizing more of visitor’s time than they’d originally intended. There’s a 20-acre outdoor wetland portion as well that’s home to a variety of plants and animals.

The outdoor areas are connected by elevated boardwalks that make it possible to explore the unique habitat without getting wet and muddy.

9. Customs House Museum and Cultural Center

Located on South Second Street in downtown Clarksville, the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center is one of the state’s largest museums. Its exhibits touch on a wide variety of topics, including history, art, and culture.

Many of the museum’s exhibits have been designed with kids in mind, and throughout the year, it frequently hosts temporary exhibitions from other institutions and private collections.

The museum is housed in an old post office building that features an eclectic mix of architectural styles. Though much of what’s on display is of a local nature, there’s a significant amount of state and regional history as well.

10. Beachaven Vineyards and Winery

Like many rural areas of the country that aren’t traditionally associated with grapes or wine, Tennessee has experienced a bit of a wine renaissance in recent years.

The Beachaven Vineyards and Winery has been in business for nearly three decades and is located just a few miles outside of downtown Clarksville.

The area is characterized by lots of green rolling hills, and the climate and soil are surprisingly conducive to growing wine grapes.

Guided vineyard and winery tours are offered daily, and during the summer months, they provide evening live entertainment as well. Don’t forget to pick up a few bottles at the gift shop before heading back to Nashville.

11. Dunbar Cave State Park

Dunbar Cave State Park is made up of more than 100 acres just outside of Clarksville and is one of the region’s most accessible cave complexes.

In ages past the cave was used as a shelter by prehistoric men and animals, and throughout the year, it maintains a relatively constant 58 degrees inside regardless of the weather.

The only way to get inside the cave is by guided tour, and they’re offered seasonally between May and August.

Due to their popularity, tours often fill up quickly, so it’s wise to reserve spots in advance of your trip or arrive at least an hour before scheduled tours begin to avoid a frustrating sold-out situation.

12. Fort Defiance Civil War Park

Fort Defiance is one of the South’s most well-preserved Civil War-era forts, and it’s located at the confluence of the Cumberland and Red Rivers just outside Clarksville.

The fort was a Confederate stronghold strategically positioned to defend the local waterways and city of Clarksville from Union troops, and for lovers of Civil War history, it’s a must-visit attraction.

Fort Defiance Civil War Park includes bulwarks, earthworks, firing platforms, and an indoor interpretive center full of exhibits, memorabilia, and artifacts that make it one of the most complete historical attractions in the area. Free guided tours are offered regularly.

13. SOAR Adventure Tower

Especially for those traveling with energetic and easily bored little ones, the state’s historic attractions can get a bit old. For those who’ve taken the time to drive to Franklin, there’s no better place to spend a few exhilarating hours than SOAR Adventure Tower.

It’s a unique attraction that towers over the surrounding landscape and features dozens of individual climbing elements.

Though some of the tower’s areas are strictly for fit and fearless adults, there are many areas around the base that are perfectly safe and suitable for young ones.

Day passes and long-term memberships are available, and most guests agree that their time spent at SOAR was fun and memorable.

14. Franklin Farmers Market

Farmers Markets are great ways to stretch your legs, meet locals, and have access to a wide variety of locally grown and produced products.

Since 2002, Franklin Farmers Market has been a year-round local attraction. Though its beginnings were humble, it’s attracted quite a loyal following and now includes more than 70 vendors selling everything from arts, crafts, and seasonal produce to prepared food items, fresh baked goods, and health and body products.

The market is open every Saturday from 8 AM until 1 PM and regularly hosts special events, fairs, festivals, and live entertainment.

15. Middle Tennessee Hot Air Adventures

For those who aren’t afraid of heights, there’s really no better way to get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding landscape than by hot air balloon.

Middle Tennessee Hot Air Adventures is a family-owned and operated business in Franklin that prides itself on providing guests a unique, safe, and utterly unforgettable experience.

Central Tennessee features beautiful rolling hills, and on clear days it’s possible to see Nashville.

Morning and afternoon options are available, and some even include amazing sunsets. The season lasts from April until November, though out-of-season tours can be arranged as well if done so in advance.

15 Best Day Trips from Nashville:

• Civil War History Tour
• Historic Tennessee Sightseeing Tour
• Nashville to Graceland Memphis VIP Tour
• Rural American Farm Tour
• Long Hunter State Park
• Batey Farms
• Historic Cannonsburgh Village
• Discovery Center
• Customs House Museum and Cultural Center
• Beachaven Vineyards and Winery
• Dunbar Cave State Park
• Fort Defiance Civil War Park
• SOAR Adventure Tower
• Franklin Farmers Market
• Middle Tennessee Hot Air Adventures

The 18 Best Day Trips From Nashville, Tennessee (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Here are the 18 best day trips from Nashville, including caves, caverns, state parks, historic towns, and more!

Visitors to Music City are spoiled for choice when it comes to activities and attractions. There are so many amazing things to do in Nashville .

But a day trip outside the city will allow you to explore more of the diverse and beautiful landscapes of Tennessee and the American South.

Soak in the panoramic views at Rock City Gardens in Lookout Mountain, or go on a historic tour of Franklin, Tennessee. Music lovers can head over to Memphis to tour the iconic Sun Studio and see live music on Beale Street.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, is one of the world’s largest space museums. There are endless opportunities to learn about science, technology, and history in the cities and towns around Nashville.

Whether you want guided tours, adventures in nature, or historic sights that would amaze history buffs everywhere, you can do it all on these day trips from Nashville.

Check out our 3 Days In Nashville Itinerary to keep you busy before you embark on a day trip.

Table of Contents

1. Fall Creek Falls State Park

2. mammoth cave national park, 3. franklin, 4. lookout mountain, 5. stones river national battlefield, 6. huntsville, 7. cathedral caverns state park, 8. chattanooga, 9. natchez trace parkway, 10. cedars of lebanon state park, 11. memphis, 12. knoxville, 13. dunbar cave state park, 14. jack daniel distillery, 15. diamond caverns, 16. rock island state park, 17. cumberland caverns, 18. center hill lake, 18 best day trips from nashville.

From Mammoth Caves National Park, to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, to the historic Diamond Caverns and more, here are the top day trips from Nashville. There is plenty to see and do in Music City itself, but these day trips allow you to explore more of the country!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Distance from Nashville: 126 miles
• Driving Time: 2 hours

Fall Creek Falls State Park, located on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee, is a breathtaking natural haven that boasts the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, lending its name to the park.

The park spans over 26,000 acres and encompasses diverse ecosystems, including cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and expansive gorges. Fall Creek Falls itself plunges 256 feet into a shaded pool, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that attracts visitors from far and wide.

The park offers a network of nature trails that lead to various overlooks and vantage points, allowing hikers to appreciate the stunning landscapes and witness the beauty of the park from different perspectives.

In addition to its awe-inspiring waterfalls, Fall Creek Falls State Park provides a range of recreational opportunities. The park features a golf course, an 18-acre lake for fishing and paddle boating, and an extensive trail system for hiking and mountain biking.

Campers can choose from a variety of camping options, including campsites and cabins, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the park. With its diverse landscapes, outdoor activities, and iconic waterfall, Fall Creek Falls State Park stands as a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to connect with the scenic wonders of Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau.

• Distance from Nashville: 88 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Mammoth Cave National Park, located in Cave City in south-central Kentucky, stands as a testament to the wonders of the underground world. It’s one of the coolest day trips from Nashville and allows you to explore the neighboring state of Kentucky!

As the world’s longest-known cave system, Mammoth Cave spans over 400 miles of explored passageways, showcasing an intricate labyrinth of chambers, stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.

The cave’s geological history dates back millions of years, with ongoing processes shaping its subterranean landscape. Visitors to Mammoth Cave National Park can embark on guided tours that delve into the fascinating history and ecology of this underground realm. The park’s diverse surface landscape includes hills, rivers, and lush greenery, providing a striking contrast to the mysterious depths below.

Beyond its geological marvels, Mammoth Cave National Park is also a haven for biodiversity. The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including hardwood forests, rivers, and wetlands. These habitats support a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are rare or endangered. The Green River, flowing through the park, adds to the scenic beauty and ecological richness.

Visitors can engage in above-ground activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and canoeing, immersing themselves in the natural splendor that complements the awe-inspiring underground world of Mammoth Cave.

This unique national park provides an opportunity for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts to explore the wonders of the Earth’s subterranean realms and the vibrant ecosystems that thrive above ground.

• Distance from Nashville: 22 miles
• Driving Time: 27 minutes

Franklin, Tennessee, located just south of Nashville, is a charming and historic city. The heart of downtown Franklin is a picturesque Main Street lined with preserved 19th-century buildings that house boutique shops, art galleries, and excellent dining establishments.

Franklin’s historic district is a treasure trove of Southern architecture and history, featuring antebellum homes and the Lotz House Museum, which provides insight into the city’s history.

The Carter House is one of the town’s most popular attractions. Holding a significant place in Civil War history, the Carter House is where the Carter family hid during the intense Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864. Visitors can explore the carefully restored Carter House and grounds on a house tour, gaining insight into the lives of the Carter family and the harrowing events that unfolded on that fateful day.

Those interested in history can learn about the city’s dark past on an exciting haunted city tour ! Or if a guided tour isn’t your thing, explore on a hop-on-hop-off trolley where you can sightsee and jump off wherever you like.

In addition to its historic charm, Franklin boasts a thriving arts and live music scene, with live performances, festivals, and events throughout the year. The city’s proximity to Nashville contributes to its musical heritage, and visitors can enjoy a variety of genres in local venues.

Whether strolling through its historic streets, enjoying live music, or savoring the flavors of the South, Franklin offers one of the easiest, quickest, and most insightful day trips from Nashville.

• Distance from Nashville: 134 miles

Another one of the best Nashville day trips is Lookout Mountain , a prominent landmark in the southern United States. Stretching across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, Lookout Mountain is renowned for its panoramic vistas of the Tennessee River Valley and the surrounding Appalachian Mountains.

One of the most famous vantage points atop Lookout Mountain is Rock City, a unique rock formation and garden. Rock City Gardens provides visitors with a stunning view on a clear day where you can see up to seven states!

The area is also home to Point Park, a Civil War historic site that commemorates the “Battle Above the Clouds,” a significant engagement fought during the Chattanooga Campaign in 1863. The expansive views from Lookout Mountain served as a strategic advantage during the war, earning it a place in American history.

In addition to its historical significance, Lookout Mountain has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.

The mountain offers opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and hang gliding, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the scenic landscapes and experience the thrill of outdoor adventures.

Lookout Mountain’s charm lies not only in its geological wonders and historical relevance but also in its role as a recreational haven. From Rock City Gardens to Point Park, this incredible mountain is a cherished destination in the American South that is only a two hour drive from Music City!

• Distance from Nashville: 31 miles
• Driving Time: 33 minutes

Stones River National Battlefield, situated in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is one of the top day trips from Nashville for history buffs. This historic site preserves the memory of one of the bloodiest and strategically significant battles of the American Civil War.

The Battle of Stones River, fought from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, witnessed intense combat between Union and Confederate forces. The battlefield encompasses key areas such as the Round Forest and the Slaughter Pen, each bearing witness to the sacrifices made by thousands of soldiers.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved landscape, marked by monuments, cannons, and interpretive signage that vividly narrate the events of the battle and the soldiers’ experiences.

The Stones River National Cemetery within the park honors those who gave their lives during this conflict, providing a solemn space for reflection and remembrance.

Stones River National Battlefield stands as a testament to the courage and sacrifices of those who fought on its grounds and serves as a place for both reflection and learning. From the monuments and exhibits to the Stones River National Cemetery, this day trip will open your eyes to a critical chapter in American history.

Find more day trip ideas on our list of the best things to do in Tennessee !

• Distance from Nashville: 111 miles

This day trip will take you south into Alabama! Often referred to as the “Rocket City,” Huntsville is a dynamic and thriving urban center with a unique blend of scientific innovation, southern charm, and outdoor beauty.

Home to the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center , Huntsville has been at the forefront of space exploration since the 1950s, contributing significantly to the development of the U.S. space program.

Visitors can explore the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, an engaging museum and educational facility that showcases the history of space exploration. Captivating exhibits, artifacts, and full-scale replicas of rockets and the iconic Saturn V are just a few things you’ll find at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

The city’s commitment to science and technology is further exemplified by the Cummings Research Park, one of the largest research parks in the United States, which houses numerous high-tech companies and research institutions.

Huntsville also has a vibrant cultural scene, featuring art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The historic downtown area, with its charming blend of preserved architecture and modern amenities, invites visitors to stroll along tree-lined streets, enjoy local cuisine, and explore boutiques and craft breweries.

Nature enthusiasts can also appreciate the beauty of the region at the Monte Sano State Park, where hiking trails and scenic overlooks provide a peaceful escape. Or explore the beauty of Huntsville Botanical Garden right in the city center.

Huntsville’s diverse attractions make it a day trip destination that combines cutting-edge technology with the warmth of southern hospitality.

• Distance from Nashville: 139 miles
• Driving Time: 2.5 hours

Cathedral Caverns State Park , located in northeastern Alabama, is home to one of the most spectacular cave systems in the United States. The centerpiece of the park is Cathedral Cavern, a breathtaking underground wonder characterized by its massive stalagmites and stalactites, some of which reach heights of over 45 feet.

The cavern’s awe-inspiring formations create a surreal landscape, with intricate shapes and delicate formations adorning its expansive chambers. Notable features within the cave include “Goliath,” one of the world’s largest stalagmites, and “Frozen Waterfall,” a unique rock formation resembling a cascading waterfall. Guided tours take visitors on a journey through this subterranean marvel, providing insights into the geology and history of the cave.

Beyond the cave’s captivating beauty, Cathedral Caverns State Park offers additional outdoor attractions. The park encompasses picturesque woodlands, hiking trails, and picnic areas, inviting visitors to enjoy the natural beauty above ground.

Cathedral Caverns State Park stands as a testament to the wonders of the underground world and provides a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to explore the beauty hidden beneath the surface of Alabama’s landscape.

Located along the banks of the Tennessee River, Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a vibrant city that combines outdoor adventures with cultural attractions. Renowned for its stunning riverfront, Chattanooga offers a scenic backdrop for a range of activities, from leisurely strolls along the Riverwalk to exciting scenic river cruises.

The city is home to the iconic Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges, connecting downtown Chattanooga to the eclectic North Shore district. The exciting city features parks, gardens, and iconic attractions including the Tennessee Aquarium and Chattanooga Zoo.

Chattanooga is also steeped in history, notably as a pivotal location during the Civil War. The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, located just south of the city, preserves the sites of two major battles and offers a somber reflection on the cost of war.

The Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger railways in the world, provides breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains, adding a touch of adventure to the cultural and historical experiences Chattanooga has to offer.

Chattanooga’s rich railroad heritage is expertly showcased at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, a living testament to the city’s pivotal role in the evolution of rail transportation. Learn about the city’s railroad history with a guided tour around the museum, or book a trolley and train ride for a more immersive experience!

With a rich tapestry of attractions, from the arts and history to outdoor recreation, Chattanooga stands as a dynamic day trip destination that captivates residents and visitors alike.

• Distance from Nashville: 21 miles
• Driving Time: 24 minutes

The Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic highway that stretches for 444 miles through three states—Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi—is a journey through the historical and natural beauty of the southern United States.

Initially used by Native American tribes and later by European settlers, this ancient trail saw a variety of travelers, including traders, soldiers, and early pioneers. Today, the Parkway stands as a preserved corridor, allowing modern travelers to follow the footsteps of those who traversed it centuries ago.

The road is lined with lush forests, open meadows, and significant historical sites, providing a serene and immersive experience for those seeking a tranquil drive through the southern landscape.

You can reach this iconic stretch of highway by driving just 25 minutes outside downtown Nashville! The Natchez Trace Parkway encourages a leisurely pace, with opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking along the way.

Its commitment to preserving the natural environment and showcasing the cultural history of the region makes the Natchez Trace Parkway a unique and enriching experience, offering a connection to the past while embracing the tranquility of the present-day southern landscape.

Heading further South? Try these amazing things to do in Atlanta, Georgia .

• Distance from Nashville: 32 miles
• Driving Time: 35 minutes

Cedars of Lebanon State Park, located in Middle Tennessee, offers a peaceful retreat with its serene landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Named after the Eastern Red Cedar trees that dominate its forests, the park encompasses over 9,000 acres of rolling hills, limestone sinkholes, and cedar glades.

The unique geological features contribute to a rich biodiversity, making the park a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. Visitors can explore a network of hiking trails that wind through the woodlands and meadows, providing opportunities to encounter rare plant species and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Tennessee countryside.

The park also boasts recreational facilities, including a campground, picnic areas, and a swimming pool, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s natural beauty is complemented by its historical significance, as it was part of the original 2,000-acre tract granted to early Tennessee settlers.

With its combination of natural charm, outdoor activities, and a nod to the region’s history, Cedars of Lebanon State Park stands as a welcoming destination for those seeking a peaceful escape and a connection to the natural heritage of Tennessee.

• Distance from Nashville: 212 miles
• Driving Time: 3 hours

Nestled along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Memphis , Tennessee, stands as a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a significant impact on American music history. It’s a 3-hour drive from Nashville, but you can still visit in a day if you’re willing to tackle a bit of driving! Or you can visit as a weekend trip from Nashville. Either way, it’s definitely worth visiting Memphis!

Known as the birthplace of blues music, Memphis has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s musical landscape. Beale Street, a historic thoroughfare lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, is a testament to the city’s musical legacy.

The iconic Sun Studio, where legendary artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their groundbreaking hits, offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll.

Memphis is also steeped in civil rights history, with the National Civil Rights Museum located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum chronicles the struggle for civil rights in America and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing quest for equality.

Visitors can explore other historical sites, such as the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, offering a comprehensive understanding of Memphis’s role in shaping both musical and social narratives in the United States. Or book a guided city tour to let a knowledgeable local guide show you the highlights of the city.

From the soulful sounds of Beale Street to the somber reflections at the National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis invites visitors to explore the diverse layers of its cultural tapestry.

• Distance from Nashville: 180 miles

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville, Tennessee, is a city with a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. The downtown area, characterized by its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere, hosts a variety of cultural events, art galleries, and eclectic eateries.

Market Square, the heart of downtown Knoxville, serves as a focal point for community gatherings and features a bustling market with local vendors. The city’s cultural scene is further enhanced by the historic Tennessee Theatre, a grand venue that showcases live performances and events, adding a touch of elegance to Knoxville’s entertainment offerings.

Knoxville is also a gateway to the natural wonders of East Tennessee. The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the breathtaking scenery. The Urban Wilderness, a unique recreational area within the city limits, offers a network of trails, parks, and greenways for outdoor enthusiasts.

Additionally, Knoxville’s proximity to the Tennessee River allows for water-based activities, including boating and fishing. With its vibrant cultural scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and welcoming community spirit, Knoxville stands as a dynamic city that embraces both its historical roots and the natural beauty that surrounds it.

• Distance from Nashville: 45 miles
• Driving Time: 46 minutes

Another one of the best day trips from Nashville is Dunbar Cave State Park located near Clarksville, Tennessee.

At the heart of the park is the impressive Dunbar Cave, one of the largest caves in Montgomery County. Rich in both geological and cultural significance, the cave served as a sacred site for indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with evidence of prehistoric Native American habitation found within.

Visitors can embark on guided cave tours to explore the intricate chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites while learning about the cave’s ecological importance and its role in shaping the region’s human history.

Beyond the cave, Dunbar Cave State Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful lake suitable for fishing. The park’s diverse ecosystem attracts birdwatchers, with the chance to spot various avian species, including great blue herons and migrating waterfowl.

Educational programs and events, such as nature walks and wildlife talks, provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the park’s natural and historical features.

With its combination of subterranean wonders, outdoor recreation, and cultural heritage, Dunbar Cave State Park provides a multifaceted experience for those seeking a connection with the natural and historical treasures of Tennessee.

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Memphis

• Distance from Nashville: 73 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes

The Jack Daniel Distillery, located in Lynchburg, Tennessee, is renowned worldwide for producing one of the most iconic and celebrated brands of whiskey—Jack Daniel’s. Established in 1866, this historic distillery offers visitors an immersive journey into the art and craft of whiskey-making.

The distillery tour takes guests through the picturesque rolling hills of Moore County, showcasing the natural limestone cave, the iron-free cave spring, and the iconic charcoal mellowing process that defines the unique character of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey.

Visitors can explore the rickhouses where the whiskey ages to perfection in white oak barrels and witness the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every step of the distillation process.

The distillery complex also includes the Lynchburg Hardware and General Store, providing a glimpse into the town’s history and offering an array of Jack Daniel’s memorabilia and exclusive merchandise.

The Visitor Center and Barrelhouse 1-14 showcase the brand’s rich heritage, featuring artifacts and stories that span over a century of whiskey-making tradition. For enthusiasts and connoisseurs, the tasting experiences allow visitors to savor the distinct flavors of Jack Daniel’s various expressions.

The Jack Daniel Distillery tour is not just a journey through whiskey production but a cultural exploration of a brand that has become synonymous with Tennessee craftsmanship and Southern hospitality.

• Distance from Nashville: 87 miles

Another one of the most unique day trip destinations is Diamond Caverns, situated in Park City, Kentucky. This subterranean wonder captivates visitors with its stunning geological formations and fascinating history.

Discovered in 1859, the caverns were initially named “Beyer’s Cave” after the landowner. Renamed Diamond Caverns in the late 19th century due to the sparkling calcite crystals adorning its walls, the caverns have become a popular destination for those seeking to explore the beauty hidden beneath the surface of the earth.

A guided tour will take you through a labyrinth of chambers adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations, creating a surreal and enchanting underground landscape.

Diamond Caverns is celebrated not only for its geological wonders but also for its historical significance. During the American Civil War, the caverns served as a source of saltpeter, a crucial ingredient in the production of gunpowder. The remnants of this mining activity can still be seen in certain parts of the caverns.

Today, visitors can experience the magic of the historic Diamond Caverns through cave tours that provide both geological insights and a glimpse into the caverns’ role in shaping the region’s history. The caverns stand as a testament to the beauty that lies beneath Kentucky’s rolling hills and offer an educational and awe-inspiring adventure for all who venture into their depths.

Exploring further east? Consider checking out Asheville, North Carolina !

• Distance from Nashville: 85 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Rock Island State Park, nestled in the scenic beauty of the Caney Fork River Gorge in Tennessee, is another one of the best Nashville day trips for outdoor enthusiasts.

Situated at the confluence of the Collins and Caney Fork Rivers, the park offers a tranquil retreat characterized by waterfalls, lush forests, and the rugged charm of the Cumberland Plateau.

One of the park’s highlights is the Great Falls of the Caney Fork, a majestic cascade that draws visitors with its breathtaking beauty and the opportunity for water-based activities. Rock Island State Park is a paradise for anglers, providing excellent opportunities for fishing in the clear, cool waters of the Caney Fork River.

Beyond its aquatic allure, Rock Island State Park offers a network of trails that wind through the park’s diverse landscapes, providing glimpses of rock formations, caves, and scenic overlooks.

The Twin Falls Trail, for example, guides hikers through the lush woods to the picturesque Twin Falls, adding an extra layer of natural beauty to the park’s offerings.

With its diverse range of recreational activities to the stunning waterfalls of Great Falls to Twin Falls, Rock Island State Park is a fascinating day trip destination in Tennessee full of unspoiled beauty!

• Distance from Nashville: 182 miles
• Driving Time: 1.5 hours

Cumberland Caverns, located in McMinnville, Tennessee, is another subterranean marvel that beckons adventurers to explore its vast chambers, intricate passageways, and stunning formations. Discovered in the 19th century, the caverns have since become a premier destination for cave enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

The extensive cave system spans more than 32 miles, making it one of the longest caves in the United States. Guided walking tours take visitors deep into the heart of the earth, showcasing the remarkable geology of the caverns, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and the impressive “Volcano Room,” a massive underground auditorium with a 400-foot ceiling that hosts concerts and events.

Beyond its natural wonders, Cumberland Caverns has historical significance, having served various purposes over the years, from saltpeter mining during the Civil War to a speakeasy during Prohibition.

The caverns also feature the Bluegrass Underground, a unique concert series that takes advantage of the natural acoustics and ethereal surroundings of the cave.

For those seeking adventure, Cumberland Caverns offers spelunking experiences and overnight caving trips, allowing a deeper immersion into the underground world. With its geological splendor, historical intrigue, and opportunities for exploration, Cumberland Caverns remains a captivating destination for those eager to discover the mysteries hidden beneath Tennessee’s surface.

Read next: The Ultimate 3 Days In Asheville Itinerary

• Distance from Nashville: 70 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour

Center Hill Lake, nestled in the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee, is a picturesque reservoir created by the construction of Center Hill Dam on the Caney Fork River. The lake is not only a vital component of the region’s hydroelectric power generation but also a popular destination for recreational activities.

The lake covers over 18,000 acres and boasts more than 400 miles of shoreline, offering ample opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and other water-based pursuits. Visitors can explore secluded coves, navigate clear blue waters, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests.

Also renowned for its diverse aquatic life, this gorgeous lake is a favorite spot for anglers. The lake is stocked with various fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie, providing a rewarding fishing experience.

Numerous marinas, campgrounds, and parks dot the shoreline, providing amenities for both day-trippers and those seeking an extended lakeside retreat. Whether one is interested in water sports, fishing, or simply relaxing by the shore, this is another one of the top day trips from Nashville!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Update)

25 Best Things To Do In Santa Fe, New Mexico (2024 Guide)

The 21 Best Things To Do In Richmond, Virginia (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

25 best things to do in california (2024 guide), the ultimate las vegas to los angeles road trip itinerary (2024 guide), 21 best things to do in houston, texas [2024 guide], the perfect 3 days in seattle itinerary [2024 guide], leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Nashville's 8 best day trips for a glorious getaway

Apr 17, 2023 • 8 min read

It’s an all-day, all-ages adventure at Lookout Mountain, a ridge running through Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia © Harrison Shull / Getty Images

After you’ve exhausted the honky-tonks and legendary hot-chicken scene, a day trip from Nashville is definitely in order. Luckily, the nearby cities and towns are up to the task, full of natural and historical wonders and surrounded by glorious hills that only get more photogenic as the seasons change.

Whether you find yourself sampling some Tennessee whiskey from a powerhouse distillery or exploring the mysterious depths of an underground sea, here are eight of our favorite day trip destinations, all reachable by car in three hours or less from Nashville – perfect for your next getaway.

1. Soak up history and wine in Franklin, Tennessee

Travel time:  about 30 minutes

Franklin has come a long way since its days as a Confederate stronghold and site of one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles (the Battle of Franklin). Today the small town manages to preserve its historic past while stepping into its new role as a welcoming suburban city brimming with locally owned shops and lively eateries. 

Start off by exploring three of Franklin’s most important Civil War sites – the Carnton Plantation , the Lotz House and the Carter House – through a local tour operator, or venture out on your own on a self-guided tour. Later, head to downtown Franklin’s charming Main St for boutique shopping and delectable Southern eats at Gray’s on Main before capping off the day with a bottle of honeysuckle wine at nearby Arrington Vineyards .

How to get to Franklin: Take I-65 south out of Nashville for about 18 miles, then exit onto Murfreesboro Rd, which runs straight into central Franklin. 

2. See falls, mountains and rails in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Travel time: 2 hours and 10 minutes

Six miles from downtown Chattanooga lies a nature-based triple threat: Ruby Falls, Rock City and the Incline Railway. It’s an all-day, all-ages adventure based in Lookout Mountain , a mountain ridge running through Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia.

Start with a guided cave tour or a 700ft zip-line adventure through Ruby Falls, home of the world’s largest underground waterfall, before strolling through the diverse flora and fauna of Rock City Gardens. Wrap up your day with a mile-high ride on the Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways. At the top: a bird’s-eye view from the Lookout Mountain observation deck. 

How to get to Chattanooga: Take I-24 east out of Nashville. After about 130 miles, take exit 178 for US 27, which enters central Chattanooga. In total, Chattanooga is about 134 miles southeast of Nashville.

3. Explore Rock Island State Park, Tennessee

Travel time: about 1 hour and 45 minutes

Within Rock Island State Park’s 883 acres, you’ll find a day full of nature excursions that cater to both laid-back explorers and adrenaline junkies. The park is both majestically craggy and verdant, with a 30ft horseshoe waterfall that once powered the 19th-century  cotton textile mill located above it. You can opt to hike past this powerful water feature on one of nine trails located below the dam, or, if you’re experienced with a kayak, you can take to the rushing stream and paddle your way downstream. 

Fishing, swimming and birding are also popular options here, with osprey, belted kingfishers and great blue herons in the area.

How to get to Rock Island State Park : From Nashville take I-40 and US-70 east to Smithville, then follow State Rte 56 south to where it intersects with State Rte 287. Turn left on SR 287 and follow it to the park entrance.

4. Sample whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee

Travel time: about 1 hour and 30 minutes

Jack Daniels is practically synonymous with Tennessee whiskey, making Lynchburg – the home of Jack Daniels Distillery – a veritable mecca for fans of this storied brown spirit. Interestingly, the distillery is located in a dry county, but you can still sample whiskey drawn from individual barrels during one of the informative distillery tours.

The town of Lynchburg itself is also worth exploring. If wine is more your speed, pop into the Lynchburg Winery bef ore indulging in a taste of rich Southern gastronomic history at Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House Restaurant . And if souvenir shopping is on the list, the surrounding shops are stocked with a delightful assortment of handmade crafts.

How to get to Lynchburg: From Nashville, take I-24 east for 28.7 miles, then take exit 81A to US-231 toward Shelbyville. Head south on State Rte 82 out of Shelbyville until arriving at State Rte 55. Turn right and follow another 2.5 miles until arriving in Lynchburg.

5. Go spelunking in Cave City, Kentucky

Travel time: about 1 hour and 25 minutes

Families love the underground rivers, glittering crystals, jagged stalagmites and rare cave-dwelling wildlife of Mammoth Cave National Park , which provides shelter for some of the most unusual ecosystems in the world. But the 400-mile surveyed passageways also have their fair share of fascinating tales to tell, including the cave’s turn as a tuberculosis hospital and the prehistoric mummies that inhabited its depths.

You can spend a day learning about this US national park through cave tours and experiences that range from 30 minutes to six hours. After you’ve peeked at the blind beetles and eyeless fish inside the cave complex, go topside for an afternoon of hiking, fishing and zip-lining through 53,000 acres of lush forest.

How to get to Cave City: Head north on I-65 out of Nashville. After about 90 miles, take exit 53 toward Cave City.

6. Space out in Huntsville, Alabama

Travel time:  1 hour and 53 minutes

Home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville is quite literally a town full of rocket scientists. As such, space-themed adventures are the order of the day, and there’s no better spot to explore the skies than at the US Space & Rocket Center . The Smithsonian-affiliated museum contains the world’s largest collection of space artifacts, including rocket and shuttle components. Kids and adults will get a kick out of a walk-through replica of the International Space Station and the resident G-Force simulator.

Huntsville has also come into its own as an arts and culture hub. Case in point: Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment , the nation’s largest privately owned arts facility. Inside this former cotton mill, you can watch artists at work in more than 150 studios, dip into one of the seven galleries or watch a performance in the facility’s theater. 

After an afternoon of the arts, wind down with a beer inside one of Huntsville’s many up-and-coming breweries, like the Salty Nut Brewery , Yellowhammer Brewing or  Straight to Ale . Certain areas around town are designated open-container, making it easy to continue exploring Huntsville with a to-go cup in hand.  

How to get to Huntsville: Take I-65 south out of Nashville and continue for about one hour and 10 minutes. At Ardmore, take the exit toward US-31 south and State Rte 53. Head south for about 30 miles until you reach Huntsville.

7. Delve into music and civil-rights history in Memphis, Tennessee

Travel time: about 3 hours

Clocking in at a little more than 200 miles, the drive from Nashville to Memphis stretches the definition of a day trip, but if you're interested in learning more about a rock 'n' roll icon or the civil-rights struggle, it's worth the extra hours in the car. You'll probably only have time for one or the other though, so choose wisely.

Devotees of "the King" know that it’s all about taking care of business…in a flash, and there’s no place that brings the legacy of Elvis to life quite like the kitschy and wonderfully bizarre Graceland . The full Elvis Experience tour takes about three-and-a-half hours, which still leaves you time to fill up on that transcendent low-and-slow Memphis pulled pork at Central BBQ before heading back to Music City.

Another significant Memphis site is the National Civil Rights Museum . Housed partly in the motel where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated in 1968, the museum details the long and ongoing struggle for African American equality in the US .

Inside the former motel, two rooms have been preserved as they were on the day King was shot. Elsewhere, artifacts and multimedia installations detail key moments in the civil-rights movement, such as a replica of a bus from Montgomery, Alabama, that tells the story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955.

How to get to Memphis: Memphis is about 210 miles west of Nashville on I-40.

8. Visit an underground sea in Sweetwater, Tennessee

Travel time: 2 hours and 53 minutes

Tennessee may be land-locked, but that doesn’t keep the state from boasting its very own sea. Designated a registered natural landmark by the US Department of Interior and listed as "America’s largest underground lake" by the  Guinness World Book of Records , the Lost Sea is a massive body of water located in a historic cave system known as the Craighead Caverns.

The true size of this body of water is unknown, but you can glide across its 4-acre surface and catch a glimpse of the crystal formations and colossal rainbow trout that inhabit the caverns on one of the daily boat tours offered.

Nearby, the town of Sweetwater’s revitalized Main St offers a bakeshop full of indulgent Southern sweets, galleries and plenty of antiques shopping.

How to get to Sweetwater: From Nashville, head east on I-40 for about 140 miles. At Kingston, Tennessee, take exit 352 to head southbound on State Rte 58.  Get off at State Rte 72, heading east until SR 322. Continue east on SR 322 until you arrive at Lee Hwy – take a right there to head into Sweetwater.

This article was first published July 2019 and updated April 2023

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Feb 4, 2022 • 4 min read

From North Carolina to Florida, experience the best of the southeast corner of the US on this wallet-friendly road trip.

Dec 19, 2021 • 8 min read

Sep 18, 2020 • 5 min read

Apr 29, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Mar 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 5, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 4, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 2, 2024 • 5 min read

Jack Daniel's Distillery Tour

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Best Museums in Nashville

Top Country Music Attractions

Nashville's Best Parks

Outdoor Escapes Near Nashville

Live Music Venues

Guide to the Grand Ole Opry

Nashville's Top Annual Events

Food to Try in Nashville

Nashville's Best Restaurants

Best Bars in Nashville

Top Nashville Breweries

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Nashville International Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation Guide

Driving in Nashville

Day Trips From Nashville

The Best Nashville Day Trips

Rhonda Stansberry/Getty Images

If you're traveling to Nashville for vacation and don't mind a bit of a drive, there are a number of great adventures within a few hours of the Music City that are perfect for a family day trip.

Although Nashville has plenty to offer guests  including the Parthenon , the Country Music Hall of Fame , Centennial Park, the Grand Ole Opry , and the Johnny Cash Museum, there's nothing like a quick trip out of the city to spice up your family vacation.

From dude ranches to waterfalls, trout fishing to cave spelunking, the following day trips offer visitors hours of family-friendly entertainment all within the state of Tennessee and often for a fraction of the cost of Nashville's popular tourist attractions.

Bucksnort Trout Ranch

Less than one hour west of Nashville, Bucksnort Trout Ranch is located off exit 152 on I-40. Bucksnort is the perfect introduction to fishing for all, but children will especially love the experience of baiting their own lines and reeling in the day's big catch. As an added bonus, there is no finer meal in Nashville than a fresh Rainbow Trout, which you can catch and cook all on your own or have the folks at Bucksnort prepare it for you.

Dunbar Cave State Park

Located 60 miles north of Nashville in Montgomery County, Dunbar Cave State Park offers a wonderful 8-mile long cave along with a fishing and picnic area along Swan Lake and several hiking trails in the surrounding mountains. Although the park no longer holds square dances, radio shows, and big band concerts in the mouth of the cave like they once did, there is still a great lineup of summer programming each year available on the park's website.

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Fall Creek Falls State Park encompasses more than 20,000 acres along the eastern top of the rugged Cumberland Plateau and offers several gorgeous waterfalls and plenty of outdoor activities . Known as Tennessee's largest and most visited park, this park features a number of pristine waterfalls including the 256-foot tall Fall Creek Falls.

Historic Downtown Franklin

Historic Downtown Franklin, located in the heart of Williamson County , is just a mere 30-minute drive from Nashville. The Downtown Franklin District is filled to the brim with plenty of quaint antique shops, cute little boutiques, and delicious restaurants as well as offering its visitors a ton of Tennessee History to explore.

Jack Daniel Distillery

Jack Daniel Distillery is located in the 371-population town of Lynchburg, just 70 miles southeast of Nashville. The town of Lynchburg, as well as the distillery, is a very enjoyable way to spend a slow southern Tennessee day, and although kids won't be able to enjoy the tasting room at the distillery, they might enjoy seeing how one of America's favorite whiskeys is made.

Land Between the Lakes

Land Between the Lakes is a 170,000-acre national recreation area in Western Kentucky located just off I-24, about 90 miles north of Nashville. LBL offers everything from an Elk and Bison Prairie to a Planetarium as well as the Kentucky Dam, Fort Donelson National Battlefield, and access to the Venture River Water Park.

Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain sits just north of Chattanooga and features a number of popular tourist attractions like Ruby Falls and Rock City—which are advertised on billboards all over the state. Other great activities include zip line tours, guided journeys into America's deepest cave, and stunning vistas of seven states at once.

Loretta Lynn's Dude Ranch

Located just off I-40 at exit 143 is the town of Hurricane Mills, Loretta Lynn's Dude Ranch is an entire town that was purchased by Lynn and her husband Mooney in the mid-1960's. With its' own gristmill, post office, general store, and campground, this amusement park and village make for a great family outing that's just over an hour's drive from Nashville.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Natchez Trace Parkway celebrates an ancient trail that stretched over 444 miles from Mississippi through the northern tip of Alabama and into Tennessee. Now, you can drive or bike through this scenic byway or stop along the way for hiking, horseback riding, camping, and more.

The Best Day Trips From Lexington, Kentucky

Great Smoky Mountains Guide: Planning Your Trip

The 12 Best State Parks in Kentucky

The 15 Best Day Trips From Los Angeles

15 Things to Do in Nashville in December

Henry Horton State Park: The Complete Guide

The 9 Best Hiking Trails in Nashville

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

Your Trip to Nashville: The Complete Guide

The Best Staycation in Every State

The Best Road Trips to Take in Hawaii

The 10 Best Day Trips to Take From San Antonio

Great Summer Family Trips in the USA

McKinney Falls State Park: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Day Trips From Palm Springs

How to Visit New Orleans on a Budget

• Stay Inspired

Get exclusive stories delivered right to your inbox.

Please use a valid email address.

Check your email — trip inspiration will be hitting your inbox soon.

Travel is good for the soul.

We'll email you inspiration.

• Chattanooga
• Pigeon Forge
• Sevierville
• Explore all cities & regions
• Eat & Drink
• Outdoor Adventure
• Scenic Trips
• Explore all Experiences
• Things to Do
• Places to Stay
• Event Calendar
• Trails & Byways
• Trip Inspiration
• Tennessee Music Pathways
• Kid Reviewed
• TN Playcation
• Explore all ways to plan

10 Small Town Day Trips from Nashville

Travel to these conveniently located towns for an authentic slice of Tennessee.

Nashville is filled with music and entertainment. It’s also conveniently located to surrounding small towns offering an authentic slice of Tennessee through their outdoor attractions, restaurants and boutiques filled with locally-made products. The following small towns are located under a two-hour drive from Nashville’s downtown, perfectly located for a memorable day trip.

Franklin, Tennessee

If you love history, Franklin should be on your day trip list. Only 30 minutes south of Nashville, the town is meticulous about preserving the area’s history and telling the whole story. Hear how the Battle of Franklin occurred at the doors of several homes including Carter House , Lotz House and Carnton . These homes were transformed into Civil War field hospitals; the bloodstains of wounded soldiers can still be seen. After taking in some history, sample some brews along the  Masters & Makers Trail that winds through Williamson County. Have an unforgettable meal at Red Pony.

Kingston Springs, Tennessee

Adventure waits for you in Kingston Springs , only 30 minutes west of Nashville. Navigate your way through several obstacles at Adventureworks on the Aerial Adventure Course where you can climb, swing and walk across cables, ropes and logs. The canopy zipline tour also takes you from ridge top to ridge top. You can book a couples adventure that highlights team building obstacles and for a truly unique experience, book a Moonlight Tour where you’ll zip line through the forest with the moonlight to guide you. If you’d like to see what’s around each Harpeth River bend, Foggy Bottom Canoe & Kayak Rental will suit you up for a day on the water. The slow-moving rapids allow you to fully take in the beauty of Middle Tennessee . Fill your belly with delicious fare from the Fillin’ Station and cap off your day with a lesson in early Native American life at the Mound Bottom State Archaeological Area.

Gallatin, Tennessee

Travel only 40 minutes north of Nashville to Gallatin where you can spend the day browsing the cute boutiques on Main Street like Tennessee Honey , Sassy and Brassy and Southern Gypsies Boutique. Sculptures, framed art and textiles are all on display. Spend some time reconnecting with nature in Bledsoe Creek State Park with a hike on one of the seven trails. Keep your eyes peeled as you can see deer and 116 species of birds. Old Hickory Lake is great for fishing, boating and paddling along its 22,500 acres of water. Grab a meal at local restaurants like Swaney Swift's on the Square for classic hand-crafted burgers, fries and shakes, Starr Ranch for southern comfort food, and Awedaddys Bar & Grill on the banks of Old Hickory Lake open each spring, summer and fall. 

Columbia, Tennessee

Fifty minutes south of Nashville, Columbia is the home of the 11th U.S. president , a thriving art community and great eats. Start your morning with a cup of coffee and pastry or breakfast sandwich at Muletown Coffee Co. Explore the locally-made items at the shops housed in The Columbia Arts Building . Bad Idea Brewing offers a variety of beers and you can find beautiful bouquets at Bloom Stall. Art classes are also offered by local and regional artists. Spend some time at W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery where you can browse photos from the town’s early years. End your day at James K. Polk Ancestral Home , which has the largest collection of the former president’s artifacts in the country.

Lynnville, Tennessee

A relaxing day welcomes you in Lynnville about an hour south of Nashville. In the adorable downtown area, you’ll find luxurious leather goods at Colonel Littleton . Each piece is hand-crafted by fashion designer Colonel Littleton to showcase the beauty of full grain American leather. Gift someone (or yourself) a purse, messenger bag, travel bag, belts, portfolios, phone cases and so much more. Meander over to Heirloom Glass to find timeless stained glass, antiques and glassware ranging from crystal pieces to pottery and coffee dishes. After hours spent shopping, have a meal at Soda Pop Junction featuring Big “Johnny” Burgers – hailed as Tennessee’s No. 1 Burger, a variety of sandwiches, salads and plates piled high with catfish, hamburger steak, pork chops, chicken strips and more. Cap off your day with a tasting of dry wines like Pinot Gris, Merlot and Cabernet Franc and fruit wines like strawberry, persimmon and lemon at Lexington Vineyard and Winery.

Pulaski, Tennessee

Travel to Pulaski, Tennessee - about an hour and 12 minutes away from Nashville - for this small town’s sweet surprises. Tour Frank Mars’ – the creator of Mars which includes M&Ms, Dove chocolate, 3 Musketeers, Milky Way and more – home at Milky Way Farms set on 1,000 acres of green pastures. Schedule a tour to see the home that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the barns; walk the trails and more. Catch a show at Staar Theatre , an opera house built in 1868. Explore the historic square and stop in for a meal at Second Street Coffeehouse. They offer breakfast and lunch in a laidback atmosphere. You’ll want to stop in to do a tasting at Big Creek Winery . Here, you’ll find a variety of wines from white muscadine to concord and Catawba. Their extensive fruit wines include apple, blackberry and cherry, pear, raspberry, cranberry and peach. Tastings are always free.

Smithville, Tennessee

An hour and 15 minutes east of Nashville is Smithville, Tennessee . Check out the local and regional art on display at the Appalachian Center for Craft . The center offers craft workshops, art for sale and a variety of exhibits showcasing functional art and sculptural works. Pull up a stool and have an old-fashioned milkshake and burger at Webb’s Pharmacy, Gift Shop & Soda Fountain. You’ll find live music and local brews at The Burlap Room Beer Garden and Taphouse. If you’d like to extend your stay, check into Evins Mill which offers comfortable rooms, hiking trails that lead to a beautiful waterfall, and delicious meals.

Waverly, Tennessee

Drive west an hour and 15 minutes from Nashville to the small town of Waverly for outdoor fun and entertainment. Make your way to Johnsonville State Historic Area where you can embark on an eight-mile trail, a two-mile trail that is sprinkled with Civil War-era forts and a half-mile African-American cemetery loop trail. 

Linden, Tennessee

Winding scenic roads lead you to Linden, Tennessee , located about an hour and a half west of Nashville. You’ll want to spend all day traveling the Buffalo River by kayak or canoe. The Buffalo River is the longest free-flowing river in Middle Tennessee and flows 125 miles. Buffalo River Resort offers are variety of rentals from canoes to inflatable and hard shell kayaks, inner tubes and rafts. They even offer overnight moonlight floats for those who want to extend their stay. Mousetail Landing State Park has loads of outdoor activities as well including five hiking trails and two mountain bike trails. Fishing, swimming, boating and paddling are also available. Have a meal and listen to some music at the Commodore Hotel & Cafe . Fried buttermilk chicken, burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, fried green tomatoes and much more make up the menu.

Lynchburg, Tennessee

An hour and a half outside of Nashville, the drive to Lynchburg is picturesque and, once you arrive, the fun is nonstop. Kick off your visit with a stroll through Tims Ford State Park on some of the 6.5 miles of unpaved hiking trails. Seven miles of paved biking trails connect to the major areas of the park. Explore the multi-use mountain biking trail that runs along the shoreline of Tims Ford Reservoir. Take a tour to see how the world’s leading whiskey is made at Jack Daniel’s Distillery . Browse unique history at the Moore County Jail Museum . Pick up a unique piece at one of the many shops lining Main Street. Before you head back to the city, stop in Miss Mary Bobo’s for family-style, country dining or dig into perfectly smoked barbecue at Barrel House BBQ .

Next time you’re in Nashville , spend a day exploring one of the small towns located within a two-hour drive from Music City’s downtown.

Places in this article

Barrel House BBQ

Barrel House BBQ 2012 - Opened Barrel House BBQ           2013 ~ Featured on BBQ Pitmasters® television show           2014 ~ Voted Top 5 Best BBQ in TN            2015 ~ Additional Seating Inside and Out           2016 - Opened up the Wall Come join us!

Miss Mary Bobo's Restaurant

A Southern Dining Experience Unlike Any Other

Lynchburg Old Jail Museum

Old Jail Museum Lynchburg Tennessee

Jack Daniel Distillery

Enjoyed around the world, made in Lynchburg, Tennessee, Jack Daniels whiskey is matured in handcrafted, white oak barrels, in the nations oldest registered distillery. Personally guided tours are a part of the ambiance.

Tims Ford State Park

Located on the Tims Ford Reservoir, the 2,200-acre Tims Ford State park sits in the shadows of the Cumberland Plateau in south-central Tennessee. The Tims Ford Lake is considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Tennessee and is regarded as one of the

Buffalo River Resort

A great get away for a few days or a few weeks.

Mousetail Landing State Park

This 1,247-acre area is located on the east banks of the Tennessee River. Tradition has it that Mousetail Landing received its name during the Civil War period when one of the area's tanning companies caught fire. The exodus of mice fleeing the burning ta

Commodore Music Café

Small Town Service With Big Time Flavor. Classic Southern Comfort Foods with an Eclectic Twist. Live Entertainment and Bar.

Johnsonville State Historic Park

Johnsonville State Historic Park is named for former President Andrew Johnson and Union Military Governor during the Civil War. This 2000-acre park located in Humphreys County, commemorates the site of the Battle of Johnsonville and the historic town site

Appalachian Center for Craft

Visit the Appalachian Center for Craft and explore the art of contemporary fine craft.

Evins Mill is a small resort property near Center Hill Lake, offering the amenities of a luxury destination in the intimate setting of a bed & breakfast.

STAAR Theatre at Antoinette Hall

STAAR Theatre@Antoinette Hall stages live theatrical and musical productions for adults and children in an historic building.

Big Creek Winery Tasting Room

Big Creek Winery Tasting Room - Wines made locally from whole fruit. Come taste the uniqueness.

Milky Way Farms

Milky Way Farm was built on the success of a 5 cent candy bar. Today we host activities and events to protect this historic treasure. Check out our website or Facebook page for upcoming events or call / text 931-808-2281

Colonel Littleton

A label that launched in 1987 selling antique cufflinks, Col. Littleton stands for Americana roots and designs destined to become heirlooms.

Soda PopJunction

James k. polk home and museum.

W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery

Fine art black and white photography: Americana, award winning art, news, crime, advertising and portrait photography that dates back 150 years.

Awedaddys Bar & Grill

Great waterfront restaurant in Gallatin

Bledsoe Creek State Park

Bledsoe Creek State Park is rich in history. It was once a prime hunting ground for the Cherokee, Creek, Shawnee and Chickamauga Native American tribes. Once English settlers arrived to the area, the once great herds of animals were dispersed, never to re

Foggy Bottom Canoe Rentals

Adventureworks, Inc

Fillin' Station

Located next to point 15, this local bar serves amazing pork shoulder sandwiches and BBQ quesadillas.

Franklin Theatre

The new Franklin Theatre continues the cherished tradition of showing movies, but also adds a new dimension to Main Street – live music.

Mantra Artisan Ales

Craft Brewery in Franklin!

Learn How the Civil War Redefined America

The Carter House

Cozy Places To Eat in Tennessee

Grab a warm drink and soak in the comforting atmosphere of these restaurants, wineries and more.

Inspiration just for you

We have a hunch these experiences might be right up your alley.

Spring & Summer Festivals in Tennessee

It's time to start planning for a spring and summer vacation.

Get in Touch (Literally) With Nature at the Tennessee Aquarium

Chattanooga is filled with Tennessee experiences. Just ask lifestyle blogger, Anna Liesemeyer of In Honor of Design, who recently took her family to experience them.

Experience These Knoxville Restaurants

Get a Made in Tennessee taste in Knoxville.

A Made in Tennessee Journey to Knoxville

Culture, creativity, and a wealth of music options, Knoxville beckons with its laid back sophistication.

Tennessee Appalachian History Comes to Life at Museum of Appalachia

A visual feast of the treasures that wait at Museum of Appalachia.

Sign up to receive trip ideas and inspiration from Tennessee Tourism.

No thanks, I’m not into adventure Read our Privacy Policy

Whitewater Rafting on the Ocoee River

Offering three different trips down the Ocoee

Cookeville-Putnam County Visitors Bureau

Your Middle Tennessee Adventure Starts Here.

Elvis Presley’s Graceland

Where the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll Lives

Discovery Park of America

Visit Discovery Park of America this spring.

The Inn at Apple Valley

Southern Charm in the Smokies, 1-800-233-3443

Get your free 2024 Tennessee vacation guide

Discover the best of Tennessee as told by the people who make it so special.

Get Tennessee Inspiration Sent Straight to your inbox

Build your family’s

North America Chevron

Nashville Chevron

Tennessee Chevron

3 Best Day Trips from Nashville

By Margaret Littman

The great thing about Nashville—in addition to the live music , the creative energy, and the hot chicken —is its close proximity to so many great getaways. Smack dab in the middle of the state, crossed by major interstates, Nashville is perfect for quick getaways. In less than a few hours of driving time you can see rolling green countryside, charming downtown squares, and thriving distilleries which are part of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. Here are three great day trips from Nashville, all of which allow you to be back in time for a late-night concert.

Click the link to read our complete Nashville guide .

Once a sleepy town, ravaged by the one of the bloodiest battles in the Civil War, Franklin has gone through an evolution from Nashville bedroom community to one of the wealthiest cities in the state. The history of that Battle of Franklin is still part of the tourist draw, although some of the retelling of the story glosses over the African-American experience in that conflict. Even folks who are not Civil War buffs flock here because the historic, pedestrian-friendly downtown is chockablock with boutiques, restaurants, and music venues.

Natchez Trace Parkway Arrow

There are thousands of years of history along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile roadway that winds from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi. The Trace, as locals call it, is managed by the National Park Service, which means that, while it is a two-lane paved road, it has no billboards or commercial development, only pullouts for historic markers and buildings, scenic overlooks, and places to hike. Every mile is marked with a brown sign, so it's almost impossible to get lost. A couple must-stops are Jackson Falls at milepost 404.7 and Old Trace Drive at milepost 401.4.

Landmark Booksellers Arrow

The stately architecture alone is worth the trip to the aptly named Landmark Books, housed in an 1820s Greek Revival home that was nearly destroyed during the Civil War. You'll find more than 60,000 books throughout all the rooms, including plenty of Southern literature, rare maps, prints, and postcards. Don't leave without snagging a handful of vintage postcards—ideal souvenirs for the history lover in your life.

GRAY'S on Main Arrow

Housed in an old pharmacy in Franklin’s history district, Gray's is a swanky restaurant and fun live music venue, a mainstay for local businesspeople and those with a little extra change in their pockets. The menu is heavy on local ingredients and local traditions, with Southern specialties such as white cheddar grits and fried catfish. There’s an impressive beer and brandy list—just because some of the dishes sound like something Grandma used to make doesn’t mean this is a down home, moonshine kind of joint.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Historic Franklin Arrow

Though Franklin has become a larger city, it retains much of its small-town charm, and even the most skeptical tourist will be impressed with its range of offerings. There are many Civil War sites in Tennessee, though most aren't as well-rounded with music and brew fests, art crawls, farmers markets, distilleries, historical battlegrounds, decadent restaurants, and laid-back coffee shops all within a relatively small area. Your best bet is to pre-plan and prioritize the things you want to do. An ideal itinerary, for instance, might involve a Civil War battlefield, a distillery, a stroll down the main drag, and a light dinner.

Double Arch Bridge Arrow

Just four miles from the northern terminus of the Natchez Trace Parkway, this bridge, built in 1994, is an engineering feat—the first bridge built from segments of concrete. You can take in amazing views from the top of the bridge, at Birdsong Hollow, or picnic and appreciate its architecture from street level. The Trace is a designated cycling route (meaning cars have to make way for bikes), so you can bike as easily as drive here.

There is a peculiarity to Lynchburg, Tennessee: While best known as the home to Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, it's located in a dry county. Don’t despair, though—you can sample the famous spirit (which wasn’t possible onsite a decade ago) if you take one of the distillery’s tours. The red brick county courthouse and souvenir shops along the town square make for good small-town strolling before or after your tour, and surrounding areas give access to the great outdoors.

Jack Daniel's Distillery Visitor Center Arrow

This is one of the largest distilleries in the world, welcoming more than of 300,000 visitors a year. Luckily, the grounds and visitor center are well-equipped to handle the large volume of people. In order to access the tasting room, you've got to take a tour—the distillery's home, Moore County, is actually dry. Opt for the Angel's Share tour (make a reservation in advance) and the guide will pour you through some of the distilleries' best barrels. The 88 barrel houses that Jack Daniel's operates produce some surprising variations from Old No. 7, its blended whiskey (and the black-label variety with which you likely are familiar).

Tims Ford State Park Arrow

Anchored by the Jack Nicklaus-designed Bear Trace golf course, the park offers expansive views of the hardwood forests surrounding the entire region. Opportunities abound to smash a golf ball into the Tims Ford Lake, but visitors would be better served hitting a bucket of practice balls at the well-maintained driving range before driving a cart around the entire 18 holes. Other options for hiking and water sports are available at Lakeview Marina, just around the corner, including kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals.

Historic Lynchburg Arrow

Though the Jack Daniel's Distillery is the best-known activity in town (if you go, make a reservation online ahead of time to make sure you can get in), the square is its center. It's surrounded by cute shops full of antiques, Southern crafts, souvenirs, and some of Tennessee's finest barbecue. 

Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. Arrow

George Dickel, the 90-proof Tennessee whiskey they make at the Cascade Hollow Distillery, is a tradition in this area. Following a reboot of the brand a few years ago by parent company Diageo, the distillery's large valley and burbling brook down in "the holler" make a tranquil setting for whiskey production. This is yet another worthy stop in the middle section of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. It's also close to many other distilleries, such as Short Mountain and Jug Creek, making it a convenient stop, too. 

Lynchburg Winery Arrow

With bright lights, shiplapped walls, and wine-barrel tables and stools, this might not be the fanciest wine room you’ll ever tour. But yes, they grow grapes in Tennessee and where there are grapes, there is wine. The cellar is filled with dry and semi-sweet varietals, like the South’s favorite Muscadine. This is a good place to pick up some bottles of sweet wine for gifts—or to drink in your hotel later on.

Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House Arrow

Operated in the original area boarding house, Miss Mary Bobo's serves folks scattered throughout the large rooms of a three-story home. Meals are family-style and you’re encouraged to introduce yourselves before sharing a large Lazy Susan table that facilitates passing and sharing food. Each table is staffed by a charming hostess—often an empty nester who has taken on the role as a volunteer gig—whose long, engaging stories make the time fly by and add some historical context to what you’re seeing and eating.

By highway, Columbia is less than an hour from downtown Nashville, but you’ll feel like you are world’s away when you arrive to explore its maker and artist community, boutiques and restaurants, presidential home, and mule culture. Yes, mules. Since the mid-1800s, Columbia has been the “mule capital of the world.” During World War II, they were even trained for the military. Each April the four-day Mule Day festival celebrates all things related to the mule, but any time of year you’ll see enough murals, art, and merchandise about the animal that could make a poor farmer rich.

James K. Polk Home and Museum Arrow

This rather modest home is where the 11th president lived as a teenager and young man, and is the only house still standing, besides the White House, where James K. Polk ever lived. Because Columbia is off the beaten path and Polk is not the best-known president, it feels a little like a secret. It's definitely not as trafficked as, say, Andrew Jackson's Hermitage. Once you get inside, though, you'll see that it is well researched and curated. 

Columbia Arts Building Arrow

The Columbia Arts Building, or CAB as the locals call it, is for buttoned-down folks who like to see dropcloths, paint splatters, and works in progress. Housed in a former wholesale grocery distributor, it is 12,000 square feet of various art-themed businesses. From galleries to artist workshops, cafes to second-hand stores to co-working spaces, this is the center of all things art in Columbia.

Columbia Public Square Arrow

The Public Square is the center of Columbia, literally and figuratively. The square encompasses the county courthouse and the surrounding West 7th and Main Streets, all dotted with pedestrian-friendly shops and restaurants, flower boxes and benches. This is where locals come to get things like school supplies, but it's also a spot where visitors can pick up Muletown souvenirs and antique-store finds.

Ted's Sporting Goods Arrow

Since 1955 Ted’s has been Columbia’s go-to for outdoor gear . While it does sell hunting and fishing equipment, it has clothing and brands that people love for just going out on the weekends, even if they are not true outdoorsmen. This is the local alternative to REI, with a cool community vibe. If you've got money to spend, pick up a Yeti cooler for day tripping and if not, just get one of the Columbia-specific shirts—you won't find them anywhere else.

W7thCo Gallery Arrow

The collection at the small, sleek W7thCo Gallery is all historical photographs of Columbia, each printed from a salvaged collection of negatives from Orman Studio, which was a Columbia photo studio that operated for 80 years. During a monthly Friday night art crawl, you might have to elbow your way around a little, but otherwise there is room to browse. It's perfect for anyone who loves black and white photography.

Red 7 Pizza Arrow

As much a gathering place as a pizza place, Red 7 is an only-in-Nashville kind of place—well, near Nashville anyway. It was started by two successful Christian songwriters who have made it to the top of the Billboard charts for their kid-focused albums, and has become Columbia's hang-out spot for families in town. Pizzas are thin crust and there are some specialities worth ordering, like the Paulie, which has chicken and a sweet and spicy Thai sauce, and the 7th Heaven, which is loaded with a spicy red sauce and five kinds of meat, from hamburger to pepperoni). You can, of course, just build your own—the perfect thing after a day spent hiking in the area.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Tennessee Travel: The 15 Best Day Trips from Nashville

My radius for traveling over the past few years has shrunk from that of “the world is my oyster” to “where can I get from my home in a day by car?” Lucky for me, I live in a gorgeous part of the South, and there are many places in Tennessee where I can escape to for a day or even a weekend. I rounded up some of the best day trips from Nashville for those of you who also live in the area or may be passing through.

This post was last updated in August 2023.

There are plenty of great places to stay throughout this region of Tennessee, from cabin to vacation rental, boutique hotel to B&B. Here are a few of my favorite drives from Nashville that take two hours or less by car.

Nolensville

Distance from Nashville: 22 miles, 27 minutes

For those who have less than a full day to spare, Nolensville is a great option. Just 25 minutes down the road (sans traffic), it’s a respite from the fast pace of the city while offering biking and walking trails, as well as easy access to Arrington Vineyards. Grab a coffee at Mama’s Java and pose for a selfie with Kim Radford’s This Girl Can mural, then raise a glass at Mill Creek Brewing Co. It’s also apple season, so while you can’t pick your own at Morning Glory Orchard, you  can  stop by the farm store and sift through 13 different varieties of apples to buy, as well as jams, preserves, cider, honey and much more.

Stay Over : There are a lot of chain hotels near Nolensville , as well as vacation rentals , or can also stay nearby in Franklin on a pet-friendly farm or in a downtown hotel .

Related post: Escape the Crowded Cities and Tackle Nolensville’s 31A Trail

Distance from Nashville: 22 miles, 25 minutes

Need I even remind you that Franklin is my favorite town in Tennessee? Fine, I’ll do it again. Boasting the best Main Street in the country, Franklin is full of Civil War history , historic homes and whiskey-slinging restaurants that line its downtown corridor. Time it for dinner, and you can do a tour and tasting (I recommend making a reservation), then pop next door to Circa.

Stay Over: Franklin has many local hotels , but the pet-friendly Harpeth Hotel is by far my personal favorite.

Related post: Explore Tennessee’s Civil War History

Leiper’s Fork

Distance from Nashville: 28 miles, 38 minutes

Technically, Leiper’s Fork and Franklin could be a combined day trip as they’re both residents of Williamson County; however, there’s enough to do in Franklin to occupy a weekend if you need a lengthier break—consider taking staying at the Harpeth Hotel for a night or two—whereas Leiper’s Fork is more of an afternoon kind of place, though if you’re the type who likes a slower pace you could easily extend overnight into the next day. This unincorporated town is rife in artist galleries and boutiques, with a few great restaurants sprinkled in the mix, as well as Leiper’s Fork Distillery. Leiper’s Fork is also right off the Natchez Trace Parkway should you want to extend your drive

Stay Over: The Pot N’ Kettle Cottages make a great overnight if you need a proper staycation and escape from reality. Need a larger home to accommodate a big group? Check into Sweeny Hallow Plantation  or any of Franklin’s vacation rentals .

Related post: Fun Outdoor Things to Do in Franklin + Leiper’s Fork

Clarksville

Distance from Nashville: 49 miles, 55 minutes

While I’ve visited many times over the course of my life, Clarksville has grown and boomed in all the right ways these past few years, and it’s become one of my favorite city breaks in Middle Tennessee. It’s got a thriving downtown district with a three-level brewery, Strawberry Alley Ale Works, some great sculptures and an amazing amount of green space. Plus, one of Tennessee’s coolest state parks, Dunbar Cave State Park, is right off the interstate—you can take a wander around the grounds, then hit Old Glory Distilling Co. for a round on your way back out.

Stay Over: Clarksville has plenty of hotels  and vacation rentals , but I’d probably opt for this cute carriage house or this chic downtown rental if I were staying over.

Related post: Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Clarksville, Tennessee

Distance from Nashville: 65 miles, 1 hour

Situated right off exit 110 of Interstate 24, Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park in Manchester is one of the easiest Tennessee state parks to reach thanks to its central location along a heavily trafficked corridor. Not only is it a glimpse at Native-American life from the Middle Woodland Period, but it’s got a stunning series of cascading falls that are particularly vibrant after a heavy rainfall (the trails aren’t too strenuous, other than some uneven footing, and many are well-suited for kids). On your way out of Manchester, take a stroll along the Little Duck River Greenway (murals, murals and more murals!), grab BBQ at Prater’s, and have a beer or seven at Common John Brewing Co.

Stay Over: Manchester has a few hotels —if you go this route, I recommend the Holiday Inn over the rest—as well as vacation rentals .

Centerville

Distance from Nashville: 60 miles, 1 hour and 5 minutes

This sweet little town birthed Minnie Pearl but also housed many a world-famous artist, such as Johnny Cash who once had his country retreat here in Bon Aqua, in the rolling hills of Hickman County not far from Interstate 40. The square is quaint and charming, while the Piney River is a great way to get out safely and enjoy the beautiful fall weather. Downtown Centerville has also gots its first-ever mural, Punch Bug by Whitney Herrington, an original piece we curated thanks as part of our Walls for Women initiative.

Stay Over: While Centerville has a few vacation rentals , nearby Columbia has more by way of hotel options .

Related post: Visit Centerville, the Home of Minnie Pearl

Distance from Nashville: 76 miles, 1 hour and 15 minutes

Speaking of country music legends, Humphreys County is not just home to Loretta Lynn, it also lays claim to her eponymous ranch, which has cabins, tent cabin and RV hookup spots, as well as outdoor offerings to keep families occupied for a full day—or weekend. Humphreys’ county seat is the charming town of Waverly, which has an old Greyhound station that now serves as the chamber, as well as the 1,075-acre Johnsonville State Historic Park, home to the Civil War battle of the same name. Walls Art Park is a free, open-air art gallery in the middle of the woods where several of our muralist friends have painted.

Stay Over: Waverly’s front-row view of Kentucky Lake means it has plenty of stunning waterfront cabins to rent.

Related post: Escape to Loretta Lynn’s Ranch

Distance from Nashville: 76 miles, 1 hour and 25 minutes

Arguably one of the best known brands in the world is located in a town of just 6,500 residents, many of them distillery employees. I’ve visited distilleries all over the world, and Jack Daniel’s headquarters in Lynchburg has the coolest tour and experience of all, hands down. Take my pro advice and opt for the Angel’s Share tour , then grab lunch at Miss Bobo’s or Barrel House BBQ. If you want a two-in-one-day distillery experience, continue down the (Cascade) holler to George Dickel next.

Stay Over: Mulberry Lavender Farm and B&B is a charmer. The area is also full of country homes that double as vacation rentals .

Related post: Tennessee Whiskey: How to Do Jack Daniel’s Distillery Right

Short Mountain

Distance from Nashville: 64 miles, 1 hour and 14 minutes

Nestled in the verdant farmland of Cannon County, about 10 miles from downtown Woodbury, the evolution of Short Mountain is a fascinating story . But there wasn’t much for a visitor to see or do until California native Billy Kaufman started making small-batch moonshine at his Short Mountain Distillery once Tennessee distilling laws changed a decade ago, then opened to the public for tours and now has aged products,   a restaurant and a spacious patio to boot—it’s a winning concept all around. Just don’t leave Cannon County without trying the seasonal kombucha on draft and other products made by Hall Hill Farm that the farming duo sells at their downtown shop, Wellness Emporium .

Stay Over: The best place to stay nearby is a cabin in Smithville , which overlooks Center Hill Lake where there are also plenty of vacation rentals .

Related post: On the Tennessee Backroads

McMinnville

Distance from Nashville: 74 miles, 1 hour and 19 minutes

Warren County’s positioning between the Barren Fork and Collins River make it a must-visit for outdoor lovers, as do its nearby state parks, Rock Island and Fall Creek Falls. It’s particularly beautiful this time of year as the leaves fade from green to gold. Be sure and walk the recently revitalized downtown, the product of two decades of vision and hard work from the local Main Street program, and venture to see Jenny Ustick’s Hebe mural on the Security Federal Savings Bank complex. My favorite spots in town to grab a beer and a bite are Collins River BBQ downtown and Smooth Rapids, which is also a campground, outfitter and equipment rental shop, right along the river.

Stay Over: You might want to stay in this music-themed apartment or in a cabin in Sparta or in a vacation rental near the state parks .

Hohenwald earns a place on my list thanks to its spot along the Natchez Trace Parkway —and the fact that it was the final resting place for Meriwether Lewis. This is a town with an extreme amount of potential, if only someone would develop a solid strategic economic development plan and implement some serious placemaking—its Discovery Center at the Elephant Sanctuary alone is a major attraction. Drive the Natchez Trace Parkway from the northern terminus in Nashville down to the Alabama border if you want to see more of this stretch of national park land.

Stay Over: Hohenwald doesn’t have many accommodation options, if any, so you’ll want to stay nearby in a vacation rental or a historic home in Columbia .

Related post: Finding Fall Colors Along the Natchez Trace Parkway in North Alabama

South Cumberland State Park

Distance from Nashville: 91 miles, 1 hour and 25 minutes

Is there a park with more epic views in Middle Tennessee than South Cumberland ? I challenge you to find me one. Stone Door is one of our favorite hikes in the area as it delivers rewarding vistas and slot canyons at the end. If the weather is favorable, consider stopping over at Greeter Falls on your way back home or pair a day trip to South Cumberland with a whiskey tour at Short Mountain for the perfect Tennessee afternoon. The closest “city” to the park is Tracy City, where you can grab a pint at Hank’s Corner Grille and see Megan Lingerfelt’s Lantern Light mural.

Stay Over: There are a few retreats in Beersheba Springs and vacation rentals near Greeter Falls , plus the awesome Goat Pen Hostel in downtown Tracy City.

Related post: Hiking with Dogs in Tennessee

Distance from Nashville: 93 miles, 1 hour and 29 minutes

There’s no better place to check out the changing leaves that atop Monteagle Mountain. My former turf, Sewanee, is about as pretty as any college campus gets—and it’s a roomy 13,000 acres at that. While there, grab lunch on the patio at Shenanigan’s, drive out to the Cross, scamper down Natural Bridge and hike the Perimeter Trail. If you’re staying overnight— the Sewanee Inn is a great place to do so, by the way—you can’t go wrong with dinner at High Point.

Stay Over: Tracy City , Monteagle and Coalmont have several communities of tiny homes and vacation rentals .

Related post: Hiking Sewanee’s Natural Bridge

Tims Ford Lake

Distance from Nashville: 90 miles, 1 hour and 33 minutes

If you’re looking to rent a boat and get out on the water, one of Middle Tennessee’s largest recreational areas, Tims Ford , is your place—it’s located in a 1,321-square-foot state park with three different marinas and ample cabins to rent for the weekend. Golfers will also want to book a round at Bear Trace, an 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus-designed course that skirts the lake and offers ample wildlife sightings.

Stay Over: There are a growing number of cabins in Winchester and its outskirts, though you simply can’t beat a waterfront oasis on Tims Ford Lake .

Related post: Twin Creeks Marina, Tims Ford Lake’s Newest Hotspot

Huntsville, Alabama

Distance from Nashville: 110 miles, 1 hour and 54 minutes

Whether space history is your jam, you love the arts or you’re in the mood for some damn good craft beer, Huntsville won’t steer you wrong. Just over the border in North Alabama, Huntsville has quickly risen the ranks to become one of my favorite cities in the South. From afternoons spent admiring the creativity of the forces behind Lowe Mill Arts and Campus 805 to sipping our way through brews at Yellowhammer and InnerSpace Brewing to taking a self-guided tour of public art on the adorable city square, I could take a dozen day trips to Huntsville and not grow bored.

Stay Over: Thanks to its space industry and military presence, Huntsville has dozens of hotels . You can’t beat 106 Jefferson right on the square or the pet-friendly Element Huntsville over near the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

Related post: To the Moon and Back: Celebrating 50 Years of the Apollo in Huntsville

Looking for more day trips from Nashville and beyond? I’ve got a few Tennessee travel ideas for you:

• Smoky Mountain Staycation
• How to Get Outdoors Safely in Memphis
• Street Art USA: The Best Murals in Nashville
• Drive the Natchez Trace Parkway through the Hills of Tennessee
• Learn About Black History in Memphis from This Woman-Owned Tour Company

SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER

Nashville, Lately: Food, Music + a Whole Lotta Fun

... READ MORE

A Blizzard Froze Our Pipes, So We Went With It

Opt Outside: Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Clarksville, Tennessee

Planning a Bachelorette Weekend in Nashville

Great suggestions — some I knew; some I didn’t. We live in Knoxville, and we’re always looking for some one- or two-day trips, especially that we can take while staying away from people. You’ve given us some new ideas.

Can you do one for Knoxville? These are great suggestions for Nashville!

Thankyou for that delightful tour which solves my families visit from Galveston, Texas in August for my 80th Birthday. Is it ok if I just forward your message to them and with your great suggestions, they will be able to figure out where they would like to visiting me in McMinnville… Yea and thankyou for these wonderful photos and suggestions. Love it that you also include places to stay along with the restaurants and important parks and places not to miss. Good to hear from you!!! We love our Hebe Mural!!

That photo from South Cumberland State Park is stunning!

Hi Kristin,

What a great share! I think the same has happened to me. I used to travel a lot, and now I am picking my destinations by distance. I am glad to hear that you got out and had a good time. Some of my distant family lives in Nashville, and I have been thinking to take my parents for a small vacation. I am so glad that you shared your experience. If I do make this trip, I will definitely check out all of the places you suggested.

Leave a Comment

Don't subscribe All new comments Replies to my comments Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

The 15 Best Day Trips From Nashville for Every Style of Adventure

Day trips from Nashville include historical sites from the Civil War, stunning mountain hikes, and lots of bourbon. Find your next Tennessee adventure!

Nashville, Tennessee, home to the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Jack Daniel’s! “Music City” is an awesome place to spend a few days enjoying live music, but it is also well positioned for some beautiful short getaways. Day trips from Nashville include historical sites from the American Civil War, stunning mountain hikes, and lots of bourbons. So, whether you want to hike off some calories, learn a little about our past, or just have a good stiff drink, Nashville has a getaway for you. Let’s find the perfect one for you and your crew!

We recommend not taking on a day trip that involves more than a 3-hour drive unless you are going to specifically see one site. Within this travel guide, we will hang below the 3-hour mark.

Liven up your Tennessee adventure with a pub crawl!

After all the day-tripping you’re about to do, you may need a refresher when you get back to Music City. Let us guide you through the live music and vibrant nightlife of Broadway on a fun-filled adventure, with a little competition. Our “Nonstop Nashville” Bar Crawl will take you and your friends to all the best bars of the area and challenge you to answer questions and post pics at every stop! It’s the most fun way to experience nightlife in Nashville!

Day Trips From Nashville

Drive times in this guide are based on Google Maps estimates, with the Texas State Capitol Building, in Downtown Nashville, as our starting point. Actual drive times may vary depending on what day and time you choose to travel.

1. Rock City Gardens

Distance: 134.4 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 24 mins

Chattanooga Tennessee is a family-friendly and budget-friendly destination just two hours from Nashville. Chattanooga is a longtime tourist hub in Southern America with a huge national forest, a plethora of historical sites, and gorgeous mountain vista views. While the small city has ample outdoor activities and historical adventures, we recommend starting your day at Rock City Gardens. 

Rock City Gardens is often listed as Chattanooga’s most popular attraction, but it is actually about 6 miles from the city of Chattanooga, across the border in Georgia. Rock City has been one of Chattanooga’s most visited sites for a long time, and it’s easy to see why. You can easily spend a whole day in the complex. The woodland and botanic gardens contain over 400 species of plants, and the landscape is really beautiful. Stroll along the 4,100-foot long Enchanted Trail and enjoy the incredible views from Lookout Mountain. 

Take in the views of High Falls, with its towering rock cliffs, rising up out of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Climb to the top of the falls and catch the amazing view from Lover’s Leap. From here, you can see 7 states on a clear day! The Gardens also has an interesting and educational Peregrin Falcon repopulation program, Wings to Soar . The gardens also have a terrifying swinging bridge, should you need a little adrenaline for the day!

Should you decide to make it a weekend getaway, check out some of the other Chattanooga sites. The Tennessee Aquarium is one of the best around. Obviously, there are majestic sea creatures, but it also has an innovative listing of IMAX presentations that allow you to virtually travel all over the world, from the ease of your theatre seat! 

For a more unique way to summit Lookout Mountain, head for the Incline Railway . This glass funicular gets you to the top quickly and allows you to take in the views all the way up! Then, hit up Ruby Falls, the 145-foot, magnificent underground waterfall. You can descend to the base of the fall by a 260-foot glass elevator in the middle of Lookout Mountain. The roar of the tumbling water is a unique and exciting experience. Ruby Falls also offers a 700-foot zipline and guided tours of the caves. You can easily visit Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, and Rock City Gardens in one full day. It’s one of the best day trips from Nashville for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

2. Jack Daniel Distillery – Lynchburg, Tennessee

Distance: 73.6 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 26 mins

Lynchburg Tennessee is home to Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, one of America’s most popular whiskeys. The Jack Daniel Distillery opened in 1866! Pretty old by American standards. It is strategically located on the mineral waters of Cave Spring Hollow, which gave the whiskey naturally filtered water. The limestone in the area helps to remove iron from the water and enhance the quality of the whiskey. 

The distillery tour takes you through the whole process of making whiskey and the history of Jack Daniel’s. And, of course, there is a whiskey tasting at the end! You can also explore the barrel houses, located throughout Lynchburg, where reportedly 1.9 million barrels of aging whiskey are scattered about. Grab some lunch at Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House Restaurant. Visit the awesome gift shop while you’re there too. 

The town of Lynchburg is really cute as well. Stroll the cafes and general stores. Visit the Old Lynchburg Jail Museum, and then score some of the best cheese in Tennessee at the Barrel House BBQ . If you are a foodie or a whiskey lover, there is no better day trip from Nashville than Lynchburg!

3. Graceland – Memphis, Tennessee

Distance: 197.7 miles

Travel Time: 3 hrs 13 mins

While a 3-hour drive is definitely pushing it for a day trip, for fans of “The King of Rock and Roll,” it is well worth it. Memphis is home to the quirky mansion of Elvis Presley, Graceland . There is so much to see on the property We suggest you take a full guided tour of the establishment. The Elvis Experience Tour takes approximately 3 hours, but you will learn and see it all! Don’t try to tackle much else. This will be a full day.

Aside from Elvis, Memphis is famous for one other thing … barbeque!! While Kansas City may hold the title, Memphis, is right at the top of the stellar barbeque chart. Central BBQ’s pulled pork is scrumptious! You will have just enough time to stop in for an early dinner before heading back to Nashville. 

4. Rock Island State Park

Distance: 84.7 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 41 mins

Rock Island State Park is a mecca for nature lovers. The 883-acre park is crawling with hikers, swimmers, fishermen, and kayaking enthusiasts. Hiking trails lace the park and lead to several waterfalls, including Great Falls, which tumbles below a historic 19th-century textile mill. There are 9 trails that run below the dam and lead to falls, so take your pick! 

Continue your hike through the Caney Fork River Gorge, with its panoramic overlooks, deep water pools, and waterfalls. The area is also popular with birders, so bring your binoculars to spot the Belted Kingfishers, Ospreys, and Blue Herons.

White water kayakers love this park too! The waters here are wild and not for the novice kayaker, so make sure you know what you’re doing before you hop in the river. For a slightly less dangerous water adventure, head a little north, to Middle Tennessee, and catch some rays at Center Hill Lake. The lake has over 400 miles of shoreline, including sandy beaches and stunning views. 

5. Mammoth Cave National Park

Distance: 84.5 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 29 mins

Mammoth Caves are … well, mammoth! It is the longest known cave system in the world, with over 400 mapped miles! The park was established in 1941, and the area is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grottos are laced with incredible formations including shiny calcite ceilings that sparkle like diamonds, stalagmites, and rare wildlife.

Start at the visitor center and check out your options for guided tours. There are several tours within the cave system ranging from the fairly easy, 1.25-hour Mammoth Passage Tour to the 4-hour, strenuous Grand Avenue Tour. The Historic Tour is the classic Mammoth Caves tour and takes about two hours with a moderate exertion level. The Frozen Niagara Tour is a bit shorter and takes you directly to some of the most famous areas. There are also accessible tours for those with special physical needs . 

This cave system is amazing, but be aware, on most tours, you will traverse several tunnels, slot canyons, and hundred of flights of stairs. Dress appropriately as it is a consistent 54F in the caves and can be 90F outside the system (in the summer).

The caves have a long history of human habitation, and the rangers will fill you in on all the details! Alongside one of the greatest cave systems in the world, the park also has over 50,000 acres of stunning landscape, including 2 rivers, the Green and Nolin. Camping, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the park. A half-day in the sun, on the river, will be the perfect way to thaw out after a morning in the caves. If you are looking for more adventure, head to the treetops for the Mammoth Springs Canopy Zipline Tour . 

6. Bowling Green, Kentucky

Distance: 66.2 miles ​

Travel Time: 1 hr

Bowling Green is a short day trip from Nashville, at just a 1-hour drive north of the city. It’s the perfect spot for sports, car, and train enthusiasts. Start with the National Corvette Museum, where you can see 70 restored “Vets” and a huge collection of photos and ads. The museum also has interactive activities such as driving lessons and go-karts.

Bowling Green is also home to Western Kentucky University. The campus is beautiful and great for a short tour, as well as a view of the city for its hilltop perch. Catch a basketball or baseball game while you are there!

Don’t miss a boat tour through Lost River Cave. The seven-mile cave system is beautiful, and you will learn about the crazy history of the cave as you float through the caverns. The cave has reportedly been an ancient Native American dwelling, a 1930s club, a Civil War campground, and the hideout of the infamous outlaw, Jesse James. 

Train lovers, make sure to visit the antique railcars and railroad museum at the Historic Railpark and Train Museum . Bowling Green has so much to offer, and since the drive is short, you can accomplish a lot in one day!  

7. Cummins Falls

Distance: 82.4 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 23 mins

Now, let’s head east to Cummins Falls , the 75-foot cascading beauty, on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River. We like this for a day trip from Nashville because the hike to see the falls is pretty easy and family-friendly. Plus, you can swim under the falls! However, if you want to hike down into the Gorge and to the base of the waterfall, you do need a permit . The terrain can be slippery, and there are some small rock scrambles, so make sure to wear appropriate shoes.

Also, climb to the top of the falls to check out the view! Spend the morning hiking and relaxing in the falls, then head for the Old Mill General Store for ice cream!

If waterfalls are your thing, make sure to check out Fall Creek Falls State Park when you’re around Cumberland. The tumbling tower of water is absolutely stunning, and the hiking around the area is pretty great too! There are several small gorges, waterfalls, and cascades to take in!

8. Lost Sea – Sweetwater, Tennesee

Distance: 191.1 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 57 mins

Did you know the landlocked state of Tennessee has its own sea? They should have named it Tennessea ! (Sorry, not sorry — that’s funny). You might not know about this sea because, well, it’s lost! It has never shown up on your map, and there’s a good reason for that. 

Lost Sea is not only a registered natural landmark, but it also holds the Guinness World Record for “America’s largest underground lake.” The lake is located inside Craighead Caverns, and we aren’t really even sure how big it is. Like, no one knows how deep it really goes. 

Daily boat tours are offered that traverse about 4 acres of the underwater caverns, exploring a glimpse of the incredible crystal formations. The waters are also laced with huge rainbow trout. It’s a long day trip, but worth it. This place is truly a wonder!

9. U.S. Space and Rocket Center – Huntsville, Alabama

Distance: 111.7 miles ​

Travel Time: 1 hr 49 mins

Less than a two-hour drive south of Nashville, Huntsville is a great getaway, especially for space enthusiasts. The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is part of the Smithsonian Institute and is the official visitor center of the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. It is seriously fun and super educational all at the same time, so it’s a great day trip for older kids.

Not only does the museum have one of the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia in the world, but the activities are awesome! The Space Center offers 20-minute interactive tours aboard the Discovery Shuttle Mission Control, an Apollo 11 virtual reality experience, and underwater astronaut training experiences. In the summer, they host a space camp, so you can drop the kids off and go check out some of the beautiful new art galleries and grab a beer at one of the local craft breweries. Huntsville is an up-and-comer in the craft beer and art communities, so new places are popping up all the time.

Huntsville Botanical Gardens also has a beautiful tulip garden, or you can grab a “purple cup” go for stroll through the Quigley Arts and Entertainment District. This area of town hosts the Huntsville Secret Art Trail, a collection of 19 street art pieces viewable in an easy and adult-beverage-friendly walk. 

If you are an art enthusiast, make sure to also check out the Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment . Lowe is the nation’s largest privately-owned art facility. The complex is home to 148 studios and six different galleries, plus performance theaters. You can literally watch the artists at work. It’s a pretty amazing concept. 

10. Stones River National Battlefield

Distance: 33.2 miles

Travel Time: 36 mins

Stones River National Battlefield Park is 570 acres of stunning landscape and is just a 30-minute drive from Nashville. In 1862, one of the key battles in the Civil War was fought on this field. It went down in history as the bloodiest battle of the war. The Union won the battle, changing the course of the war and the lives of the people of the Murfreesboro area.

Take a guided tour of the battlefield and learn all there is know about not only the epic battle fought here but the ecology and wildlife of the area as well. The park also puts on interpretive programs to help visitors better understand the battle and the times. 

After your tour, take a bike trip down more than 10 miles of riverside trails on The Stones River Greenway. Keep a lookout for vultures, mink, and deer while you ride. The landscape is full of unique flora and fauna. Stones River is a perfect Nashville day trip for history buffs and nature lovers. 

11. Cumberland Caverns

Distance: 84.6 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 36 mins

Have you noticed there are a lot of caverns around Nashville? Cumberland Caverns is located in McMinnville, Tennessee. It was discovered in 1810 and became a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, pretty much from day one. The park has been open to the mass public since 1956, and there are plenty of activities to keep you and your family busy.

The cave system consists of 32 miles of passageways with underground waterfalls, deep pools, and stunning rock formations. Walking tours are available every day, as well as creepy overnight tours. If you are looking for a bit more of a challenge, they also offer spelunking tours. Bluegrass Underground is a monthly concert held in the Volcano Room of the caverns which is a blast, and you can even rent the space for unique weddings or parties. 

While you are in the area, strap on your hiking boots and head for Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Cumberland Gap is the original gateway to the west and has been used by everyone from migrant Native American tribes to frontier explorers. Today, there are more than 80 miles of marked trails to explore!

12. Abe Lincoln’s Home at Knob Creek

Distance: 136.4 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 30 mins

Our 16th President, “Honest Abe” was born in very rural LaRue County Kentucky. While not the actual place he was born (that farm is a few miles away), Lincoln spent most of his childhood at Knob Creek . It was the first home he remembered and stated that he had fond memories there. 

The 228-acre farm near Hodgenville was home to Lincoln in his formative years. The original house was torn down in the 1870s, but a replica cabin has been constructed on the spot of the original. The cabin is filled with period-appropriate furnishing, donated by families of the area. Guided tours are available through the national parks service.

13. Loretta Lynn’s Ranch

Distance: 74.3 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 33 mins

Nashville is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry, so it is no surprise that the surrounding area is the dwelling place of some major legends in the music business. The “coal miner’s daughter,” Loretta Lynn, built an 18,000-square-foot ranch in 2001, and it now serves as her official museum, documenting her inspiring life and career. Lynn was a true “rags to riches” story and a bit of a hoarder. She saved everything from her life, so the museum collection gives a detailed rendering of her journey. 

Within the property, there are several smaller museums and exhibits to visit as well. Explore Loretta’s Doll & Fan Museum in the old Grist Mill. It contains gifts that Lynn has collected from her fans over her 60-year career. You can tour Loretta’s Frontier Homestead, original log cabins from the frontier days, filled with over 400 artifacts from tools to cookware, to saddles. The Grist Mill Museum contains farming equipment from the corn production industry of the 1800s.

The ranch lies on a beautiful property with a roaring spillway and is wonderful to explore. Camping is also available in some of the cabins on the property. 

14. Franklin, Tennessee

Distance: 21.5 miles

Travel Time: 26 mins

Franklin is a charming city just outside of Nashville. It is home to country music legends, has a rich Civil War history, is dotted with unique farms to explore, and drips with Americana.

Explore Main Street in Downtown Franklin. There is always something going on in the square. Visit MistleToe Alpaca Farm and love on some cuddly critters, but don’t miss the main attractions, the historical sites. 

The Battle of Franklin was one of the major Civil War battles of the area, and some of the homes involved are still standing today and open for tours. The Carter House is a United States National Historic Landmark. The Federal Style brick house was built in 1830 and taken over by army troops later. The Carter family hid in the home to wait out the Battle of Franklin, and one of the wounded sons died in the home. The house is well-preserved and available for tours. The room in which Mr. Carter died is preserved in its original form. 

The Lotz House was ground zero for the Battle of Franklin, and the home still bears blood stains from the soldiers who died in its halls and holes in the floor from cannonball landings. The Carnton House was home to the mayor and served as the largest military hospital in the region.

Franklin is an excellent destination for history lovers, but it is also just a cute small town with a good amount of locally-owned shops to peruse and quaint eateries to grab a bite. If you prefer to drink your dinner, head for the Arrington Vineyards and try their specialty, the Honeysuckle wine. Visit the Factory At Franklin for a unique shopping experience or take a road trip on the 444-mile national scenic byway, the Natchez Trace Parkway.

15. Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center

Distance: 156.2

Travel Time: 2 hrs 18 mins

If you are going to do the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, then you might as well test the competition. It’s only fair! Take a road trip down the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and spend a day at Heaven Hill Distillery . Heaven Hill is the largest independent, family-owned, producer of bourbon in the United States. 

Unfortunately, the 1934 original distillery burned down in 1996. The new facility hosts several different tastings and historical tours for you to choose from. You will walk through interactive exhibits detailing the mash bills, distilling process, and bottling process, giving you a thorough education on the whiskey-making process. It’s a fun tour, and the guides are extremely knowledgeable about bourbon. Plus, you get three tasty samples!

Closing Thoughts

Nashville is a vibrant and beautiful city with tons of great day trips surrounding it! We hope you found one here that interests you. Let us know in the comments which one you are going to take!

If city trips are more your thing, Knoxville is less than 3 hours from Nashville and would make a great weekend getaway! Check out our list of the best things to do in Knoxville for tips on enjoying this amazing city.

Need a thing or two to do in the city? Check our guides full of things to do in Nashville and Music City’s best museums .

Frequently Asked Questions

There are tons of things to do around Nashville ! Go on a scavenger hunt , experience the amazing Music City museums , or take a day trip and visit the Civil War historic sites of nearby Franklin.

Nashville day trips  are plentiful and varied! Explore Mammoth Cave National Park, drink some bourbon at the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, or visit the home and museum of country music legend, Loretta Lynn.

There are some fantastic Nashville day trips for outdoor explorers! Visit the gardens and waterfalls of Rock City, enjoy Spelunking in Mammoth Caves National Park, or go subterranean at Lost Sea.

Featured Products & Activities

• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• United Kingdom
• Road Trip Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• Work With Me

15 Best Day Trips & Weekend Road Trips from Nashville, TN

13 comments

There are plenty of things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, to keep you busy for your entire trip—from mural tours and honky tonks to boutique shopping and southern dining!

However, did you realize Tennessee is surrounded by eight states ? That makes Nashville a great launching point to explore more of the country! In this post, we’ve rounded up some of the best weekend trips and day trips from Nashville so you add one (or more!) of these destinations to your trip.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Top Weekend Road Trips & Day Trips from Nashville

1. chattanooga, tennessee.

• Distance from Nashville: 132 miles
• Recommended Trip: Day Trip

Chattanooga is one of the best day trips from Nashville just over two hours from the city. Chattanooga is truly an outdoor-lovers paradise. With impressive nearby waterfalls, hikes, rock climbing, and caverns, you will surely want to spend more than one day, which is why it also makes a great weekend trip from Nashville!

Start your morning by exploring the magical  Rock City Gardens.  This 4,100 ft trail weaves in and out of natural rock and takes you past amazing waterfalls, caverns, overlooks, swinging bridges, and more. After exploring, head into Chattanooga for a picnic at Coolidge Park and a stroll across the Walnut Street Bridge. For the rest of the afternoon, you can choose between a trip to the aquarium, a hike up to Snooper’s Rock, or a tour of Racoon Mountain Caverns.  

End your night with a dinner cruise aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. If you still have additional time, you can learn about the haunted side of Chattanooga with a walking ghost tour ! It’s bound to be one of the best day trips from Nashville that you won’t soon forget. 

Recommended by Jordan from The Homebody Tourist

2. Franklin, Tennessee

• Distance from Nashville: 20 miles

Franklin, Tennessee, is one of the most charming day trips from Nashville, and it’s only a short half-hour drive from Downtown Nashville! There are tons of fun things to do in Franklin, Tennessee , from boutique shopping, great dining, live music, and Civil War history, making it a fascinating place to spend the day.

When you arrive in Franklin, start your morning at Biscuit Love for a southern-style breakfast, and then head to the Carter House for an informative tour. Here, you can learn all about the Battle of Franklin, one of the most important battles in the Civil War, and walk through the property and home where the battle took place. You can still see bullet holes through the walls!

After your tour, head to the Factory at Franklin. You can grab lunch at Mojo’s Tacos and do some shopping at the boutique stores in this historic establishment. Then, head to Downtown Franklin to do some more shopping or head into Leiper’s Fork for a whiskey tasting. Before heading back to Nashville, enjoy a southern-style dinner at Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant!

Recommended by Brittany from Travel by Brit

3. Memphis, Tennessee

• Distance from Nashville: 212 miles
• Recommended Trip: Day Trip // Weekend Trip

Looking for one of the best day trips from Nashville? If so, then check out Memphis, Tennessee. After all, this vibrant city in southwest Tennessee is known for its ties to blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and soul music since Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King recorded iconic records here at Sun Studio . It’s just over a three-hour drive from Nashville, so you can either enjoy the  best things to do in Memphis during a jam-packed day trip or a leisurely weekend trip.

Many popular area attractions have close ties to the music history, including Graceland (aka Elvis’ former home), the Rock’ n’ Soul Museum, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and the Blues Hall of Fame. You can also head to Beale Street and enjoy live musical performances at local venues like Tin Roof, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and Rum Boogie Cafe. 

Additionally, you cannot leave Memphis without exploring the lobby of The Peabody Hotel . Residents shuffle their way through the hotel lobby daily between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM. You can also stay here if you are planning to take a weekend trip from Nashville. And if you have time, be sure to pop into the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum and learn all about the incredible role that Memphis played in the Underground Railroad as enslaved people made their way to freedom.

Recommended by Victoria from Southern Road Trippers

4. St. Louis, Missouri

• Distance from Nashville: 308 miles
• Recommended Trip: Weekend Trip

It’s over a four-hour drive from Nashville to  St. Louis , but it’s worth the drive once you get there. St. Louis is a great city with plenty to see and do. There are museums, restaurants, and parks galore, not to mention the Gateway Arch, one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. St. Louis is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway from Nashville!

When you arrive, see the sights in Downtown St. Louis . Visit the Gateway Arch, take a scenic Gateway Arch Riverboat ride on the Mississippi River, admire the art at the Citygarden Sculpture Park, and bring out your inner kid at the one-of-a-kind City Museum. The Gateway Arch is the top attraction in St. Louis. Make a reservation to ride to the top, learn the area’s history at the museum underneath, and enjoy the views from the surrounding greenspace.

You can also explore the Forest Park area. Forest Park is home to numerous attractions like the Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, and the Saint Louis Science Center. There’s also plenty of open space for running, biking, or just relaxing in nature. Union Station is another popular spot for visitors. It includes the St. Louis Aquarium, The Wheel, and some kid-friendly attractions. From a quick day trip from Nashville to a weekend getaway, there’s something for everyone in St. Louis!

Recommended by Caitlin from Twin Family Travels

5. Indianapolis, Indiana

• Distance from Nashville: 288 miles

If you are looking for a fantastic, family-friendly weekend trip from Nashville, Indianapolis is just the place. This vibrant city, located in the heart of Indiana, has  a ton of amazing attractions  and things to do that will delight the entire family.

When traveling with kids, visiting the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a must. As one of the largest children’s museums in the US, this place is loaded with incredible exhibits and boasts an impressive outdoor sports legends experience. You could spend an entire day here! Of course, you can’t visit Indianapolis without checking out its iconic Motor Speedway. Take a guided tour of the track, kiss the bricks, and explore the museum filled with racecars and vintage vehicles. If you happen to be there during a track day, you can watch (and listen to) the cars whipping around the track.

And if you want a little relaxation, head to Indiana Dunes National Park. Here, you will find 15 miles of the best family beaches in Indiana! Explore the giant sand dunes that tower nearly 200 feet above the lake, or just soak in the summer sun while the waves crash on the shore. You can also go biking, bird watching, fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and even geocaching with the family at the park.

There are many great places to stay, both in downtown Indianapolis and some of the surrounding towns. And for a popular dish, don’t leave town without sampling their famous Hoosier Pie!

Recommended by Marianne from Pasta, Pretzels & Passports

6. Arrington Vineyards, Tennessee

• Distance from Nashville: 27 miles

For one of the best day trips from Nashville, look no further than nearby Arrington Vineyards, located 30 minutes south of town. The vineyards are open year-round from 11 AM to 8 PM most days. It is one of the best destinations for the whole family and is especially great for wine lovers. Visit during the summer for the entire experience when everything on the vast property is open, or during the winter for a charming holiday activity for date night or when the family comes to visit.

There are many great  places to drink wine in Nashville , but this one’s the best! The vineyard grows its own grapes and makes a large variety of wine on the property. They will please even the pickiest wine drinkers with various red, white, and sweet wines. You’ll want to visit for at least several hours, but the whole day makes for a fun experience. It’s a great date spot, girlfriend’s meetup, or family location, as there’s tons of space for kids to run and play while you enjoy the beverages.

You have several options for trying the wine. Grab a tasting, a selection of four small pours, buy by the bottle, or enjoy their Frosés if you’re visiting during summer.

Be sure to bring a few important things with you. You’ll want a picnic blanket, water bottles, and food to enjoy. The best thing to bring is a charcuterie platter, which pairs perfectly with all the wine you’ll be trying. On select days, food trucks are on-site, and you can order lunch there instead!

Recommended by Tori from Tori Pines Travels

7. Asheville, North Carolina

• Distance from Nashville: 297 miles

Asheville is a quirky mountain town that falls along the beautiful  Blue Ridge Parkway , a famous scenic drive in autumn. It has a wonderful mix of outdoorsy and city activities, so if you’re visiting for a weekend trip from Nashville, you have a great pick of things to do.

One of the best options is visiting the Biltmore Estate , where for $89+ per adult, you get access to “America’s Largest Home” plus the extensive gardens and grounds, including the conservatory, a rose garden, and an Italian garden, all surrounded by stunning mountain views. A winery tasting is also included in your ticket (but go easy if driving back to Nashville the same day!).

Other fun things to do in Asheville include doing an art walk downtown at the many galleries, playing your heart out at the Asheville Pinball Museum, and trying some local beer because the Asheville area is home to 80+ breweries! You can also go on a guided hike in the gorgeous mountains surrounding the city.

Be sure to try White Duck Tacos, a fusion taco spot that’s very popular among locals, Baked Pie Company, where you can try a pie flight, and Biscuit Head for their iconic biscuits and jam bar!

Recommended by Alanna from Periodic Adventures

8. Louisville, Kentucky

• Distance from Nashville: 175 miles

Do you love bourbon, baseball, and horses? If so, you’ll probably enjoy exploring all the cool things to do in Louisville, Kentucky —one of the best weekend trips or day trips from Nashville.

During your time in Louisville, you can’t miss the chance to explore many of the best museums in Louisville , such as the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Churchill Downs & Kentucky Derby Museum , and Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. You should also check out some of the best places to eat in Louisville , like Gralehaus and Biscuit Belly for brunch and Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse or Doc Crow’s Smokehouse for dinner!

If you’re staying in Louisville for the weekend , spend a day exploring all the bourbon distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail . If you only have time for one tour, consider visiting Maker’s Mark Distillery. This is widely considered one of the best distillery tours in Kentucky! Consider booking a room at Hotel Distil to really get in touch with the city’s bourbon culture. They offer a free Old Fashioned for guests every night!

9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

• Distance from Nashville: 197 miles

If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Nashville that will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated, a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just what you need. It’s the most visited national park in the United States, and for good reason.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans more than 520,000 acres and features beautiful mountain vistas, pristine forests, rushing rivers and waterfalls, and an array of plant and animal life, offering an endless list of things to do and see. 

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the park thanks to its more than 800 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. Popular trails include Cades Cove Loop, Chimney Tops, Clingmans Dome, Laurel Falls, Ramsey Cascades, Grotto Falls, and the infamous Appalachian Trail.

If you’re not up for a hike, you can still enjoy the stunning scenery in the comfort of your car. The Newfound Gap Road offers some of the  best views in the Smoky Mountains . This 33-mile scenic drive traverses Newfound Gap, the highest point in the park, accessible by car. There are plenty of pull-offs where you can stop and soak in the views.

Last but not least, take some time to enjoy some wildlife watching. The park is home to over 200 kinds of birds, 65 mammal species, 67 native fish species, and over 80 types of reptiles and amphibians. You’ll get the chance to see white-tailed deer, chipmunks, groundhogs, elk, turkeys, and more. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a black bear.

Recommended by Disha from Disha Discovers

10. Huntsville, Alabama

• Distance from Nashville: 111 miles

Huntsville, Alabama, is one of the  best day trips  from Nashville, as there are several cool sites in this relatively unknown city in Alabama. Huntsville is home to the Redstone Arsenal and is known as Rocket City, thanks to the fact that it was central to the design and testing of America’s rocket systems for the space program in the 1960s, and it continues to be a major player in modern space exploration.

The top thing to do in Huntsville is to visit the world-class Space and Rocket Center, a museum that features a replica of the Saturn V rocket, which was used for the Apollo moon-landing missions. This replica stands proudly upright outside the museum and can be seen from many spots in Huntsville. Other space shuttles, airplanes, and rockets are on display outside, and inside, you can see many exhibits about space exploration, including an authentic Saturn V rocket, along with different space-related exhibits. 

Stop by the Huntsville Botanical Gardens next door when you’re done at the Space and Rocket Center. There are peaceful flower gardens and trails to walk and explore, and a fun children’s garden and butterfly house to play in. Downtown Huntsville is a charming little area to explore, get food, or discover murals. If you fancy a hike, visit Monte Sano State Park for many great trails or bike down the several greenways throughout the city.

Recommended by Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

11. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

• Distance from Nashville: 216 miles

Where can you find local moonshine, stunning mountain views, a life-size replica of Titanic,  and  endless odes to songbird Dolly Parton? The answer? The-one-and-only Pigeon Forge, Tennessee! A short drive from Nashville, this cozy mountain town is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to Smoky Mountain National Park. 

For an authentic mountain cabin experience, the hospitality company Yourcation Awaits is superior. Their spacious two-story cabin sleeps up to 13 and boasts a private deck with a hot tub and a fully equipped kitchen. Multiple game rooms and streaming services make for a fun family getaway or group trip. It’s also a five-minute drive from Dollywood and 15 minutes from the Smokies.

Spending a day at Dollywood is a must, but there’s much to do beyond that. Enjoy a feast at Dolly’s Stampede. This four-course Southern meal and show features music, comedy, and pyrotechnics. Then, burn off the calories and hike a trail in the Smokies. The most popular hikes include the Porters Creek Trail, Laurel Falls, and the Alum Cave Trail. Finish the morning with breakfast at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp. You can also sample the local spirits on a moonshine and wine tour or sip at your leisure. The can’t-miss stops include Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine and Mountain Valley Winery. 

If you have more time, check out the Titanic Museum , Paula Deen’s Country Kitchen, a Jeep sightseeing tour , and shopping at The Island!

Recommended by Alexandra from  East Coast Contessa

12. Atlanta, Georgia

• Distance from Nashville: 249 miles

Just under a four-hour drive from Nashville, Atlanta, Georgia, may be one of the longer day trips from Nashville, but it certainly makes a perfect weekend trip!

There are tons of fun things to do in Atlanta during your weekend trip from Nashville. First, head downtown and visit the Georgia Aquarium —one of the largest aquariums in the world! You can easily spend half the day exploring this world-class aquarium’s top-notch exhibits. Get skip-the-line tickets to make the most of your trip. If you have time, check out some of the other cool museums at attractions downtown, like the World of Coca-Cola , College Football Hall of Fame, and Centennial Olympic Park.

You also can’t miss the chance to explore the attractions in midtown Atlanta. The Atlanta Botanical Gardens are one of the can’t-miss attractions in the city. Don’t miss the 25-foot Earth Goddess Sculpture while you’re there! You can also explore the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail with tons of restaurants, shopping, and attractions along the way. There are tons of things to do in Atlanta, so you may want to consider an Atlanta CityPass to get the most bang for your buck!

If you’re looking for something to eat, head over to Ponce City Market or Krog Street Market for a wide selection of local vendors and restaurants. Atlanta is also filled with tons of craft breweries, so head to Monday Night Brewing for a beer before calling it a night!

Recommend by Brittany from Travel by Brit

13. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

• Distance from Nashville: 94 miles

As the longest-known cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave National Park does live up to its name! Established in 1941, the park consists of 52,830 acres, including the cave and an extensive trail system.

The caves have regular tours that visitors can embark on. The tours explore various parts of the cave system, including the history of the cave. Cave tours are held year-round, although winter sees fewer tourists and fewer tours. The cave is generally 54ºF year-round. However, surface temperatures can vary wildly depending on the season.

Mammoth Cave National Park is about an hour and 45 minutes from Nashville. Hotels, restaurants, and grocery stores are located in nearby Cave City, KY. There’s a hotel within the park, the Lodge at Mammoth Cave, which offers hotel rooms adjacent to the visitor center. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to extend your trip to Mammoth Cave National Park for more than just one day!

Recommended by Anwar from  Beyond My Door

14. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

• Distance from Nashville: 223 miles

One of the longer day trips from Nashville is the four-hour one-way car ride east to Gatlinburg. While it can be a stretch if you strictly have one day to spare, this day trip can be done if you leave early in the morning and drive back later that night or if you plan a weekend trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg!

Because a majority of things to do are within walking distance from one another it is possible to see the city and do many of the best attractions in the area in just a day. However, if you can stretch your stay further, spending at least one night in Gatlinburg is recommended so that you can take your time and not miss any of the fun, especially if you want to hike in the Smoky Mountains. While downtown Gatlinburg is frequently labeled as one of the largest tourist traps in America for families you may be surprised to learn that there are also a decent amount of free and  cheap things to do in Gatlinburg for adults ! 

Begin your morning or early afternoon in Gatlinburg with a local cup of coffee or sit down for brunch at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp. After fueling up for the day you can enjoy walking the strip and shopping or go moonshine tasting!

Then, spend the second half of your afternoon by purchasing a SkyLift ticket and riding up to the SkyBridge where you’ll get the chance to walk across the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. For dinner, you’ll have no shortage of options to pick from right downtown!

Recommended by Rachel from Rachel’s Findings

15. Knoxville, Tennessee

• Distance from Nashville: 180 miles

Knoxville is one of the best day trips from Nashville, and it makes for a great weekend trip too!

Start your day with breakfast at Olibea. Named after the owner’s two children, Oliver and Beatrice, this popular breakfast spot serves up breakfast favorites with a southern twist. Then, explore the Old City. The history of this neighborhood dates to the 1850s when a new rail system was built, and old JFG Coffee signs still line the railroad and speak to this earlier time. Pick up a hand-blown glass from Pretentious Glass Co. or local souvenirs from Rala.

Next, head to the World’s Fair Park. Wondering what that tall, shiny sphere is dotting the Knoxville skyline? The Sunsphere was built when the City of Knoxville hosted the 1982 World’s Fair, and today it is an event venue with a free observation deck that offers an aerial view of the city. The World’s Fair Site is now a public park used for festivals and events and connects downtown to the Tennessee River via the city’s lengthy greenway system.

After, shop at Market Square, Knoxville’s downtown hub for restaurants, concerts, and festivals. If you are here on Saturday, you can shop at the Farmer’s Market or ice skate during the holiday season. Grab lunch at The Tomato Head, peruse Union Ave. Books, and don’t miss the Dolly Parton mural in the northeast corner. Then, you can grab an ice cream from Cruze Farm Dairy or coffee from Frothy Monkey while strolling the main drag of historic downtown. 

Finally, enjoy dinner at A Dopo Sourdough Pizza and drinks at the Peter Kern Library. If you decide Knoxville merits more than a day trip, the Oliver Hotel is one of the city’s best and longest-standing local boutique hotels. It’s the perfect place to stay during your weekend trip to Knoxville from Nashville!

Recommended by Emma from Travel Filled

Enjoy these Fun Weekend Road Trips & Day Trips from Nashville

With so many fun weekend trips and day trips to choose from, it will be difficult to choose just one or two during your trip to Nashville! Which of these weekend trips and day trips from Nashville would be at the top of your list? Let me know in the comments below!

Save These Weekend Road Trips & Day Trips from Nashville for Later

Did you love this post about weekend trips and day trips from Nashville? Check out these other things to do while you’re in Nashville:

• 21 Fun Things to Do in Nashville, Tennessee (First Timers Guide)
• 20 Nashville Murals and Instagrammable Spots You Can’t Miss
• 12 South Nashville: Where to Eat, Shop, Stay & Play
• 17 Fun Places to Eat & Drink in Nashville, TN
• 15 Best Bars on Broadway Street in Nashville, TN
• Ultimate Guide to Centennial Park in Nashville
• 10 Charming Things to Do in Franklin, TN

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Find a New Place to Explore within a Two Hour Drive

Have a Saturday and want to get out of town and explore? Check out our suggestions for day trips – all tested by our families and 7 kids. The Nashville metro area is big, so to give you an idea of distances we have used the Tennessee State Capitol as a central starting point. All of these locations are within a 2 hour drive or less from the Capitol.

If you want to travel further or need an idea for a weekend away check out our road trip suggestions.

Scroll through the list, or click one of the buttons below and see our adventures by state.

Eagle Awareness Weekend – Family Fun in Guntersville, Alabama

When I first told my husband that I wanted us to drive down to Alabama for Eagle Awareness Weekend, he was…not as excited as I was. He thought this was…

Cummins Falls State Park

I’ve never written anything controversial on this site but this post may change that. Let me make something clear right up front. If you and your family have been visiting Cummins…

Lost Creek Falls and Cave – A Waterfall Adventure for All Ages

You know those amazing adventure spots you see when perusing Pinterest that make your eyes glaze over with envy at the person who was actually standing in that spot, able…

Alabama Constitution Village

Near the square in downtown Huntsville, AL is a square block that takes you back in time. Alabama Constitution Village is a re-creation of the city in 1819, the year…

Tennessee State Aquarium

Two hours south of Nashville in beautiful Chattanooga, TN is the Tennessee State Aquarium which is a great place to spend a day! We drove down on a Sunday and…

Land Between the Lakes: A Family Day of Adventure

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, is known as a 170,000 acre playground. Located between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, the northern end of the area is in Kentucky,…

Dinosaur World

We were not exactly excited about our trip to Dinosaur World. I had five girls with me from age 10 to 15. None of us are particularly big fans of…

The Weeden House Museum – Huntsville, AL

I love to tour historic homes.  It’s my ‘thing’. Therefore it is also my children’s ‘thing’ whether they like it or not. They (mostly) like it. I tour all these…

Find Lost Treasures at Unclaimed Baggage in Alabama

Many years ago I saw a segment on the Today show about a store in Alabama that sold items from lost luggage. After the airlines do all they can do…

Explore the Stars at the US Space and Rocket Center

Just 2 hours south of Nashville is one of only 3 places in the U.S. where your family can see rockets, explore the history of NASA and see what is…

• Change Region

Secondary menu

• Organizations: Login
• Organizations: How to post to KOAA lists and calendars
• Organizations: Register a new User ID / account
• Organizations: Advertising on KidsOutAndAbout
• Parents: Login to manage parent bulletin board posts
• Parents: How to post to Parent Bulletin Board
• Parents: Register a new parent bulletin board User ID

Nashville's Online Family Guide to Events and Everything Fun!

Search form

101 family day trips and staycations around nashville.

**Follow each link to get details about your visit directly from your destination, since some places operate seasonally or by reservation, as well as to check each venue's COVID requirements (masks, limits, social distancing).

Free activities and splurges that are worth it. The coolest stuff for a staycation in town and road trips for less than a tank of gas from Nashville. Kids Out And About has tons of ideas for family travel, with places to explore, learn, and have fun!

KidsOutAndAbout is America's online guide to everything for kids, teens, and families! If you don't already receive our free weekly e-newsletter, sign up today to make sure you're in the know about free stuff, festivals, classes, camps, vacation ideas, and all the best events near you!

Take A Deep Breath In the Garden

Get wild on a hike, time travel today, make life a beach, splash into some water fun, spend the day at a museum, explore these cities, all aboard planes, trains, and automobiles (and boats), grow some fun at the farm, treat yo' self, connect with nature, amuse yourself at these amusement parks, talk to the animals, let's go chasing waterfalls, get active indoors  , challenge yourself.

Limiting our list to 101 ideas meant some great destinations may have been left off the list - if there is something you’d like to see added, share it with us on Facebook !

Most of these destinations are within an hour from Nashville. For those that are a bit farther away:

• Share on Facebook
• Tweet Widget
• Free Events Today
• Free Events This Weekend
• Free Events Next Weekend
• Free Places to Take Your Kids
• Today's Events
• All Events This Weekend
• All Events Next Weekend
• Earth Day Events
• Mother's Day Events
• Activities for Babies & Toddlers
• Activities for Preschoolers
• Activities for kids in early elementary school
• Activities for 'tweens
• Activities for Teens
• Activities for the whole family
• CSAs - Community-Supported Agriculture
• Fun on the Farm
• Indoor Play Centers
• Local venues with memberships & season passes
• Preschools & Day Care
• Private Schools
• Music organizations
• Performances & Movies
• Local Theater
• Dance organizations
• Dance performances
• Visual Arts Organizations
• Nature Centers & Zoos
• Amusement Parks
• Get Active: Sports & Fitness
• Local Gyms & Rec Centers
• Sports Education
• Sports Teams
• Special Needs
• Parenting Hacks
• Local Reviews
• Vacation Reviews
• Product Reviews
• Book, Music, & Games Reviews
• Event Reviews
• Week by Week Guide to Summer Camps
• General Day Camps
• Overnight Camps
• Sports/Fitness
• STEM, Language, and Culture
• Visual Arts
• Cooking & Crafts
• Virtual/Online Summer Camps
• Classes by Subject
• Sports & Fitness
• Exercise & Health
• Horseback Riding
• Martial Arts
• Performing Arts
• Hands-on (Arts & Crafts & Cooking)
• Sign Language
• Academic (Science, Tech, Writing, History, Test prep, etc)
• Virtual/Online Classes
• Home schooling
• Exhibits - current & upcoming
• Story times at libraries & bookstores
• Organizations focused on STEM or Culture
• Master Guide to Summer Fun in the Nashville Area
• Master Guide to Fall Fun
• Halloween Fun
• Fall Festivals
• Apple Picking
• Pumpkin Patches
• Master Guide to Holiday Fun
• 101 Ideas for Holiday Family Fun in Nashville
• Christmas Tree Farms
• Subscriptions Boxes: Gifts That Keep on Giving
• Where to visit Santa
• Christmas Activities
• FREE holiday events
• Lightbulb Day
• New Year's Eve Activities
• Holiday concerts and performances
• Master Guide to Winter Fun
• Ice Skating
• Zoos and Nature Centers
• Upcoming online events
• Virtual Online Learning Resources & Classes
• 24/7 virtual experiences
• Top 20 Places to Take Kids Around Nashville
• 101 Family Day Trips from Nashville
• Blog of publisher's weekly column: Notes from Deb
• This week's newsletter
• Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter
• Advertise in our weekly e-newsletter

Nashville   Travel Guide

Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto | Getty Images

28 Best Things to Do in Nashville, Tennessee

There’s more to Nashville than the live entertainment and bars on Broadway (though those are very much worth experiencing – especially on a guided tour ). In recent years, Nashville has propelled its "It City" status by becoming a beacon for

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Grand Ole Opry Grand Ole Opry

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take the “Women of Country” tour to learn about the women who shaped country music, from Dolly Parton to Carrie Underwood, complete with mimosas and petit fours. – Kellie Walton

The Grand Ole Opry began as a radio show in 1925, and it put Nashville on the map as the "Country Music Capital of the World." Throughout its history, the Grand Ole Opry has called several different places home (including the Ryman Auditorium ), but has always hosted country performers from legends like Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton to favorites like Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban.

Ryman Auditorium Ryman Auditorium

IU.S. News Insider Tip:  Take the tour to learn of this building's fascinating history, and check the calendar to see if you can experience a live performance. The intimacy of the space and amazing acoustics are one-of-a-kind. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

There's no better place to start absorbing Nashville's musical heritage than the Ryman Auditorium. It's no longer home to the Grand Ole Opry , but the venue continues to host contemporary acts like Trace Adkins, Blake Shelton and Luke Combs. The Ryman is not only for country stars however; it has hosted musicians like Paul Simon and comedians such as John Mulaney. Recent visitors suggest opting for a tour to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the legendary music venue. Sit in on the "Soul of Nashville" screening for a multidimensional experience that uses archival images and footage of performers from the Ryman's past to illustrate its role in music history. Plus, you can learn about the building's backstory with its "Workin' on a Building" exhibit, which displays artifacts from the Ryman's construction. What's more, you can test out your own pipes at the recording studio (subject to availability). The Ryman is also a featured stop on many of the city's top guided tours .

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Check the calendar for Songwriter Sessions (typically on Saturdays) in the Ford Theater, for a glimpse into the songwriting process. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Music and history lovers can mix and mingle over the exhibits found at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Peruse the plaques dedicated to country music's finest – from Patsy Cline to Reba McEntire to Alan Jackson – and walk among artifacts like Johnny Cash's guitar and Elvis Presley's "solid gold" Cadillac limo. For an interactive history lesson on the roots and evolution of country music, take a self-guided walk through the "Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music" exhibit. In addition to its permanent exhibit, the museum hosts various revolving temporary exhibits, which often focus on particular artists. Stop to browse the two-story wall plastered gold and platinum country records, and then head to Historic RCA Studio B . One of the world's most influential recording studios and a Music Row landmark, Studio B produced more than 35,000 songs by legends like Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings and Roy Orbison. (Note: Studio B is about 1.5 miles southwest of the museum.)

Popular Tours

Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

(4199 reviews)

from $ 46.92

Grand Ole Opry Show Admission Ticket in Nashville

(1641 reviews)

from $ 57.70

Nashville Biggest & Wildest Party Public Tractor Tour (Ages 21 + )

(1707 reviews)

from $ 44.95

Broadway Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Bar hop among the different Broadway bars to hear some of the most talented singers in the city. Bring some cash to tip the musicians and request your favorite country songs. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

While many people visit Nashville to soak up the history of country music at the city's museums (like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ), others prefer enjoying the tunes in person. The best way to do that is to visit Broadway, downtown Nashville's main thoroughfare. Lower Broadway is nicknamed the "Honky Tonk Highway" because of the numerous spots that host live acts daily. What's more, there's no cover charge to the establishments, so you can bar hop as you please.

National Museum of African American Music National Museum of African American Music

The city of Nashville embodies more than just country music, and nowhere is this more apparent than at the National Museum of African American Music. Opened in 2021, the museum aims to educate visitors on the influence of African American people on more than 50 genres of popular music, including jazz, gospel and hip-hop.

Each of the museum's galleries focuses on how African American music changed through specific time periods. The "Wade in the Water" gallery highlights the call-and-response spirituals of the 1600s, while the "Crossroads" gallery showcases the emergence of blues music. The "A Love Supreme" gallery teaches museumgoers about the musical traditions of New Orleans and the emergence of the music now known as jazz, and the "One Nation Under a Groove" gallery details the emergence of R&B starting in the 1940s and chronicles music popularized by the civil rights era. Finally, "The Message" gallery offers a detailed look into hip-hop, rap and youth culture up until the present day. Interactive elements and musical artifacts like sheet music and costumes add to the informative displays. Recent visitors came away deeply impressed with everything from the comprehensive history presented to entertaining interactive exhibits.

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Tootsie's Orchid Lounge

After a day exploring the roots of the "Country Music Capital of the World," why not experience the sounds of Music City first-hand? If you're looking for a fun atmosphere with top-notch performances, Tootsie's "World Famous" Orchid Lounge on Broadway is the place to go. Since the days when the Grand Ole Opry  called the  Ryman Auditorium  home, this downtown bar has been featuring performances by both world-renowned and up-and-coming artists. Indeed, the place abounds in country music history: part of the Loretta Lynn biopic "A Coal Miner’s Daughter" was filmed here, and legend has it that Willie Nelson got his first songwriting job after performing at Tootsie's.

Patrons have mixed opinions about Tootsie's with some complaining about average food, expensive drinks, and musicians assertively soliciting tips, while others say the multiple floors of first-rate music make up for the woes. Though some travelers bemoan the bar's cramped atmosphere, many believe it's part of the Tootsie's experience.

Best Nashville Tours

Nashville Tours

The 15 Best Nashville Tours of 2024: Music, Food & More

March 26, 2024

Photo Tour: The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville

May 15, 2023

Photo Tour: The Kimpton Aertson Hotel in Nashville

May 12, 2023

Bluebird Cafe Bluebird Cafe

U.S. News Insider Tip: This intimate venue is where stars like Garth Brooks were discovered. Check the calendar at least a month prior to your visit to get tickets in advance. There's a very limited amount of tickets that might be released the day of, but it's a must-experience spot in Music City. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

The Bluebird Cafe is an intimate, 90-seat music venue that presents two shows per night every night of the week. Despites its unimpressive appearance, location in a strip mall outside of downtown and small size, the Bluebird achieved a reputation as a songwriter's space, and many significant performers have graced its stage over the years. Garth Brooks, for instance, performed at its open mic night before hitting the big time. Be aware that the cafe has a "Shhh policy" which encourages folks to stay quiet during all performances. (As souvenir you can buy a T-shirt with "Shhhh!" printed on the back.)

Centennial Park Centennial Park free

Encompassing the site of the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, 132-acre Centennial Park boasts an art center, a lake, a walking trail, a band shell, volleyball courts, a dog park and various historical monuments. It's also home to the Parthenon as well as the Centennial Sportsplex, a facility for swimming, tennis and year-round ice skating. The park hosts numerous festivals as well as free concerts on Saturdays in spring and fall.

Reviewers frequently say that this peaceful, well-maintained greenspace is a lovely place to take a walk. Many say the Parthenon is the must-see attraction here.

Nashville to Jack Daniel's Distillery Bus Tour & Whiskey Tastings

(1513 reviews)

from $ 129.99

Grand Ole Opry House Guided Backstage Tour

(1812 reviews)

from $ 46.24

Discover Nashville City Tour with Entry to Ryman & Country Music Hall of Fame

(1663 reviews)

from $ 103.53

Historic RCA Studio B Historic RCA Studio B

In its heyday, this recording studio welcomed greats like Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and the Everly Brothers through its doors. It is now part of the nonprofit Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , and has been restored and renovated to reflect its historic roots. Built in 1957, the studio became famous for promoting the "Nashville sound" and put the city on the map as an international recording center. Today, visitors can take a tour of the studio to see where the stars recorded their music. Visitors give high marks to informative and engaging guides, with many saying the tour was a highlight of their visit to Nashville.

The studio is about 1.5 miles away from the Country Music Hall of Fame, where the tours depart (transportation is included). One-hour tours of Studio B are offered between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets for adults are $51.95 and include admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Youth tickets are $41.95. More information can be found on the website .

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

Fans of Tennessee whiskey and bourbon should make time for a stop at Nelson's Green Brier Distillery during their visit to Nashville. The distillery's roots reach back to the late 1800s, when Charles Nelson, a German immigrant, started producing whiskey in Greenbrier, Tennessee. It became so popular he ended up selling about 2 million bottles of whiskey in 1885 alone. Nelson was one of the first distillery owners to sell whiskey in bottles rather than more cumbersome jugs or barrels, which allowed him to achieve wide-spread distribution. He died in 1891 and his wife Louisa took over, though in 1909, Tennessee’s statewide Prohibition forced her to shutter the operation. Nearly 100 years later, the couple's great-great-great-grandsons, brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson, restored the business and brought the operation to Nashville. Today, the venue features the distillery, a tasting room, an event space and a gift and bottle shop. Tours of the distillery run on weekends.

Past travelers called the tasting fun and informational. Others said to sign up for a tour. Visitors said the friendly staff members were particularly knowledgeable and all the whiskey samples were excellent.

The Hermitage The Hermitage

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're a history buff, be sure to visit this historic site for a glimpse into the life of Andrew Jackson, as well as the realities of the lives of the enslaved people of the estate. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Constructed between 1819 and 1821 for President Andrew Jackson, this Federal-style mansion stands as a National Historic Landmark and a preserved window into the home life of Jackson. Many may be familiar with Jackson from his role in the War of 1812, his stint as president and his appearance on the $20 bill, but a tour of the massive estate provides a more up-close-and-personal look. Along the guided tour you'll see the main house, plus have (unguided) access to the garden, the quarters where enslaved people lived, Jackson's tomb and the Old Hermitage Church. 

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: While the blooms may fade in colder weather, the grounds are just as stunning when covered in mums and pumpkins each fall and draped in one million dazzling lights each holiday season. – Kellie Walton

Art aficionados and nature lovers alike should plan on making a stop at the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. With its greenhouses, sculpture trail and chromatic flower display, the 55-acre Botanical Garden offers sanctuary from downtown's bustle. In fact, the garden comprises multiple distinct gardens, including one dedicated to boxwoods, another focused on dogwoods, a rose garden, a Japanese garden, an herb garden and one intended to inspire writing that features a small amphitheater for literary events. The on-site art museum is just as striking. Housed in the original Georgian-style Cheek family mansion, the museum boasts an impressive collection of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings as well as antique furniture, photographs, prints, sculpture and artifacts from around the world.

Fifth + Broadway Fifth + Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Prolific restaurateur Sam Fox debuted a multistory restaurant concept that connects to Fifth + Broadway. Keep your eyes peeled for a hidden door on the street level that leads to an underground margarita bar, Pushing Daisies. – Kellie Walton

Broadway is one of Nashville’s top destinations, made even more desirable through the addition of the city’s largest mixed-use development, Fifth + Broadway. From retail shops to restaurants and residential space, Fifth and Broadway offers a plethora of options adjacent to Music City’s famed honky-tonk bars. Stroll the outdoor plaza to shop at retailers like Apple, Tecovas, Free People, and locally-loved boutiques like REVV and The Nash Collection, then stop for a pick-me-up at Elixr Coffee Roasters or Jeni’s for a sweet treat. 

General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville

(1067 reviews)

from $ 113.08

Nashville "Homes Of The Stars" Narrated Bus Tour with 30+ Celebrity Homes

(976 reviews)

from $ 65.00

Taste of Nashville Food & Sightseeing Tour

(1262 reviews)

from $ 114.10

Radnor Lake State Park Radnor Lake State Park free

Though Nashville is a bustling metropolis, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors right on the outskirts of town. Located less than 15 miles south of downtown, Radnor Lake State Park is a calm and serene getaway for those looking to go for a walk and observe nature. The 1,368-acre park features a variety of plants and animals, including owls, waterfowl and herons. Plus, there are numerous jogging, hiking and biking trails in the park, many of which provide impressive lake views. If you're looking to learn more about local birds in the area, check out the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center for interactive displays, ranger-led programs and panoramic views of the surrounding hillside.

Parkgoers say they loved going on peaceful walks in this park and were astonished at the amount of wildlife they saw. Some people advise getting there early to get parking if you drive.

The Johnny Cash Museum The Johnny Cash Museum

Uncover the enigma behind "The Man in Black" with a visit to The Johnny Cash Museum. The museum boasts the world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia, including items from the film "Walk the Line" (which is about Cash's life), handwritten notes and letters penned by Cash and costumes worn during his career. Exhibits spotlight different periods in Cash's life, including his years in the Air Force, his marriage to June Carter and his famous prison concert tour. And because the museum is officially endorsed by the Cash family, you can bet you'll stumble across other personal mementos not available to the public anywhere else, like a stone wall excavated from Johnny and June's Hendersonville house.

Fans love the wealth of information on display at this museum. Not much of a Cash devotee? Museumgoers say you should still make time to visit. Some warn, however, that it can get crowded. Others complain that admission fees were too high for the small museum.

Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

U.S. News Insider Tip: The historic home tour is worth the trip, and be sure to allow time to visit the winery for a tasting. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Belle Meade, which sits 8 miles southwest of downtown Nashville, offers a look into the lives of Tennesseans throughout the 1800s. The Greek revival-style mansion was built in 1853 and 1854 and is centrally located on the historic site's 32 acres of manicured grounds. Guides offer tours of the mansion's interior. 

Nashville Bus Tours Nashville Bus Tours

Bus tours offer almost effortless means of taking in what Nashville has to offer, whether you simply want to see the city's top attractions or have specific interests, such as music, comedy, celebrities or a certain adult beverage. Here are some to consider:

Old Town Trolley Tours – Nashville Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour: Explore the sights and sounds of Nashville at your own pace on this hop-on hop-off excursion. Vehicles stop at 13 prime attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame , Ryman Auditorium , Belmont Mansion and Centennial Park . Tours feature live commentary. They occur daily between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost about $55 for single-day tours. You may be able to score discounted tickets if you book online in advance. Riders say this tour offers a great way to learn about the city and praise its knowledgeable, entertaining guides.

Arrington Vineyards Arrington Vineyards

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re a fan of Arrington Vineyards, join Kix’s Wine Club to receive select bottles quarterly (with shipping available), and unlock discounts and special pricing for your next visit to the grounds. – Kellie Walton

Nestled in a south Nashville small town, Arrington Vineyards is a stunning winery co-owned by Kip Summers and country music star Kix Brooks (formerly of Brooks and Dunn). The rustic retreat boasts a primary farmhouse for wine tastings and multiple retail areas to grab a bottle or a flight of the brand’s signature wines, which range from red blends to white varietals and sparkling wine. Arrington Vineyards also offers a rotating seasonal frosé, which is especially refreshing during scorching Tennessee summers. 

Helicopter Tour of Downtown Nashville

(645 reviews)

from $ 99.00

Best of Nashville City Sightseeing Tour on Double Decker Bus

(1766 reviews)

from $ 39.95

1-Hour Nashville Line Dancing Class

(689 reviews)

from $ 40.00

Belmont Mansion Belmont Mansion

If you love history or art, make time for a tour of Belmont Mansion – the largest house museum in Nashville. This Italian-style villa was constructed in the 1850s for Adelicia Acklen, one of the wealthiest women in the country at the time and, according to some, Nashville's own Scarlett O'Hara. Although it was originally built to be a summer home, the mansion was quite stately and featured an art gallery, a bowling alley, a zoo and gardens. A tour of the approximately 20,000-square-foot mansion leads visitors through rooms ornately decorated with 19th-century antiques and lavish art.

Visitors praise the nicely preserved interior and knowledgeable docents stationed throughout the mansion. However, some visitors felt their guides did not spend enough time acknowledging the backbreaking work of the property's enslaved workers, who, along with European immigrant servants, built and maintained this opulent mansion. Unfortunately, many physical remnants of the enslaved people at Belmont Mansion were destroyed over the course of history, but you can still learn some information about some of the property's enslaved families on the Belmont Mansion website .  

The Parthenon The Parthenon

Nashville is a city of many nicknames and most of them have to do with music. Still, the city is also known as the "Athens of the South" thanks to the numerous higher education institutions established there. This identity is reinforced with the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the one found in Athens . Although Nashville's Parthenon was only meant to be temporary – it was built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition in 1897 – it has since become a beloved attraction, housing models of the statues found in the original structure as well as an impressive art collection. Travelers praise the well-kept grounds, peaceful atmosphere and magnificent building, recommending an evening visit to see it illuminated. Others rave about the fascinating exhibits and love the giant statue of Athena.

Located in Centennial Park about 2 miles west of Music Row , the Parthenon is open every day, though hours can vary by the week and the season. Check its website before you visit for current hours. Admission costs $10 for adults and $8 for seniors (older than 62) and children ages 4 to 17. However, you can tour the exterior of the building and its grounds for free.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab your camera (or phone) and walk this picturesque bridge, stopping midway for a fantastic selfie with the Nashville skyline. If it looks familiar, it's likely because many music videos have utilized the vantage point from this spot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Formerly called the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge (and before that, the Sparkman Street Bridge), the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge – which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – was built from 1907 through 1909. It was constructed to connect downtown Nashville to the suburbs of East Nashville. Designed by Howard M. Jones, the chief office engineer of the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railway, the bridge contains 48 spans, including four steel trusses and two reinforced concrete trusses. They're the only concrete trusses to be known of in Tennessee. In 1998, the city stopped allowing vehicles on the bridge due to its poor condition, and in 2003 it was restored and became a pedestrian-only walkway. There is also 15-foot-wide central bike lane in the middle of the bridge. Pedestrians can stop and relax at one of four overlooks along the bridge, which offer panoramic views of Nashville to the north and south. 

Music Row Music Row free

With record companies, recording studios, music publishers and related organizations as well as the Historic RCA Studio B , Music Row stands as the center of Nashville's storied music industry. In addition to the sites where musical history was made, this area southwest of downtown also has plenty of eateries and shops.

Music Row may not be as flashy or brassy as Broadway , but the area is a must-see destination for music lovers. Because the neighborhood is comparatively nondescript, many travelers recommend taking a guided tour to learn the history of the area. Several of the best tours in Nashville visit Music Row.

Tennessee State Museum Tennessee State Museum free

Located in downtown Nashville next to the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the Nashville Farmers' Market, the Tennessee State Museum preserves the unique and storied history of the Volunteer State. The large museum showcases permanent exhibits that display the heritage of Tennessee's natural history; Native American history; military and sporting history; and Civil War history. Plus, there are rotating temporary cultural and art exhibits on display as well. Several attractions at this museum specifically cater to children. The museum's Children's Gallery is specifically geared toward kids aged 3 to 8. In addition, the museum hosts many events and educational programs on-site throughout the year.

Museumgoers say the exhibits are well organized and highly informative. Many also appreciate the free admission.

Nashville Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

(934 reviews)

Nashville Combo Tour: Sightseeing, Murals, and Brewery

(524 reviews)

from $ 109.68

Nashville Public Party Bus with Bartender and DJ

(86 reviews)

from $ 64.01

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

If you're an animal lover or in the mood for a family outing, then the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is an excellent spot to visit. The zoo boasts more than 325 different animal species and more than 3,000 animals, including clouded leopards, monkeys, meerkats, red pandas, white rhinoceroses, alligators and anacondas. Plus, there are fish and bird exhibits showcasing both local wildlife and exotic creatures. There are a number of hands-on exhibits that are popular among kids, including the Critter Encounters (where you can get up close with various animals), Kangaroo Kickabout (where you can pet kangaroos) and Lorikeet Landing (where you can see Australian parrots and feed them for a small fee). What's more, the zoo also features a historic home and garden, a zip line, a 4D theater, an animal-themed carousel and a Wilderness Express Train.

Recent visitors were impressed with this zoo, with many reviewers complimenting the well-designed and well-kept facilities. Several families recommend this attraction when visiting Nashville with kids because of its various on-site activities.

Adventure Science Center Adventure Science Center

Take a break from history and country music and treat your kids to some hands-on educational entertainment. Interactive displays at the Adventure Science Center allow little ones to learn about science, from how beekeepers do their jobs to what goes on thousands of light-years above our heads. Kids can learn what it takes to become an astronaut and use an augmented reality mirror to get a peek at what their muscles and bones look like. Regular demonstrations and crafts further keep children engaged and shows in the planetarium are entertaining for the whole family. The facility also features a flight simulator. Museumgoers say this is a must for kids, as the facility has plenty of activities to keep children interested. They also laud the friendly staff. However, some say the exhibits could be better maintained.

Located almost 3 miles south of downtown Nashville, the Adventure Science Center is open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with extended hours to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Adults pay $22; youths ages 2 to 12 enter for $18 and children younger than 2 get in for free. Admission to the planetarium and certain simulation activities costs extra. Free parking is available. For more information about the exhibits and upcoming events, visit the Adventure Science Center website .

Frist Art Museum Frist Art Museum

Located in a gorgeous 1930s art deco building that was once the city's main post office, the Frist Art Museum offers an ever-changing set of exhibitions, covering everything from paintings to sculptures to photography. Past exhibits have featured European armor, works of Albrecht Dürer and Picasso's renderings of the human form. Artwork by local artists and students are regularly in rotation as well. The museum runs programs, talks and activities to complement the exhibits. Families will want to make sure to visit the Martin ArtQuest Gallery, which offers interactive stations and creative hands-on learning. Recent visitors say even if you are not a big art lover, seeing the building alone is worth a visit. Multiple travelers were disappointed by how small the traveling exhibitions are. Many observe that staff members are friendly and knowledgeable.

Located downtown, the museum is just a few blocks from the Country Music Hall of Fame . The museum opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday except for Sunday, when it opens at 1 p.m., and Thursday, when it closes at 8 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and college students. Those 18 and younger can enter for free. Parking in the museum's lot costs $2 per hour. For more information, visit the museum's website .

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway free

Located on an expansive stretch of the Cumberland River about 5 miles east of downtown Nashville, the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway is a sprawling green space where visitors can learn about the local landscape and take advantage of outdoor recreation opportunities. When you visit, start at the nature center, where you can view cultural history exhibits and artwork. You can also rent a bicycle from the on-site BCycle station to explore or participate in an environmental education program and learn about things to do on the greenway. The 950-acre Shelby Bottoms Greenway has about 17 miles of unpaved and paved pathways (perfect for strolling and biking) that pass through wetlands, streams, forests and fields.

Parkgoers say the atmosphere is relaxing and quiet; the trail system is easy to follow and clean. Many say cycling is quite fun here. Indeed, Shelby forms part of the 26-mile Music City Bikeway that connects Percy Priest Dam and the Warner Parks. Visitors also report glimpsing deer and other wildlife here.

Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland

The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center stresses that its SoundWaves is an "upscale" water park. The indoor/outdoor facility features a variety of water rides, including a total of 11 slides, and wave pools complemented by music. It also boasts waterfalls, lazy rivers, play structures and a surfing simulator, among other heart-pumping attractions. There is also a splash pad and activity pool for small children. Adults can enjoy two pools all to themselves (one indoor and one outdoor) plus a bar. Cabanas and private party rooms are available for rental. Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland is also featured in a list of best bachelorette party destinations .

Parkgoers deem this water park exceptionally fun with a great deal to do for people of all ages. It's frequently described as clean and well attended by lifeguards. While the park is open exclusively to those staying in the resort, some say this helps keep it from becoming overcrowded.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Admission in Nashville

(1419 reviews)

from $ 29.95

Explore the City of Nashville Sightseeing Tour by Golf Cart

(2182 reviews)

from $ 55.41

Nashville's Dark Secrets: Murder & True Crime Walking Ghost Tour

(150 reviews)

from $ 34.95

Things to Do in Nashville FAQs

Explore more of nashville.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023