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Looking for the best road trips from Nashville? Let a local show you where to go!
Hello, fellow travelers! As a Nashville native and a proud mom of four lively boys, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty and diversity of our great United States through the lens of countless road trips.
From the comfort of our family car, we’ve explored the rich history, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes that lie just beyond our doorstep in Nashville, the “Music City”.
Nashville is more than just our home; it’s a city that pulses with the rhythm of live music, a city that’s steeped in Southern charm, and a city that’s a perfect starting point for some of the best road trips in the country.
Whether you’re a music lover looking to follow the trail of Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, a history buff eager to explore historic towns and sites on the National Register of Historic Places, or an outdoor enthusiast ready for hiking trails and water sports, there’s a road trip from Nashville that’s just right for you.
In this post, I’m excited to share our family’s favorite road trips from Nashville. These are trips that have delighted, educated, and inspired us, trips that have become cherished family memories.
From short drives to major cities, from small-town charm to the grandeur of national parks, these road trips offer a taste of the best things the United States has to offer.
So, buckle up and join us as we embark on this journey. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the best road trips from Nashville, a great place that we’re proud to call home.
Best Day Trips from Nashville (Under 3 Hours Each Way)
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a great weekend trip option, located just about 2 hours away from Nashville. Known for its scenic beauty, Chattanooga is nestled along the Tennessee River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
The city is rich in history, with Native Americans and then Civil War soldiers shaping its past. A notable attraction is Lookout Mountain, where you can see stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Chattanooga also offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium and the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel.
You can see all of our Chattanooga adventures here
Mammoth Cave National Park, KY
Just a short drive of approximately 1.5 hours from Nashville, Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is a great option for a day trip. As the world’s longest known cave system, with more than 400 miles explored, it offers an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.
The park is rich in history, with Native Americans being the first to explore the caves over 4,000 years ago. A notable fact about the park is that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve.
Nearby, you can enjoy local restaurants in the small town of Cave City.
Huntsville, AL
Huntsville, Alabama, is about a 2-hour drive from Nashville. Known as “Rocket City,” Huntsville is home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, where you can learn about the U.S. space program’s history.
The city also has a rich history in music, with the famous Muscle Shoals Sound Studio nearby. For food lovers, downtown Huntsville offers a variety of local restaurants to choose from.
Here we are enjoying the Space and Rocket Center:
Jackson, TN
Jackson, Tennessee, is approximately a 2-hour drive from Nashville. This city is known for its music scene, with the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame Museum being a top attraction.
Jackson also has a rich Civil War history, with several historic homes and battlefields to explore. Local restaurants and shops in downtown Jackson provide a taste of southern charm.
This is also where they plan to build a Great Wolf Lodge soon!
Muscle Shoals, AL
Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is about a 2-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its rich music history, Muscle Shoals is home to the famous Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, where many iconic songs were recorded.
The city is also near the Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic drive that’s perfect for a day trip. Local restaurants in downtown Muscle Shoals offer a taste of southern cuisine.
South Pittsburg, TN
South Pittsburg, Tennessee, is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville. This small town is known for the National Cornbread Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the country.
South Pittsburg also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing, and is home to Lodge Cast Iron.
Local restaurants in the area offer a variety of options, from southern comfort food to international cuisine.
Jasper, TN
Jasper, Tennessee, is about a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville. This small town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Jasper is also near the Sequatchie Valley Scenic Byway, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Local restaurants in Jasper offer a variety of options, from traditional southern food to modern American cuisine. (We always visit the Jasper Western Sizzlin on our way to Chattanooga!)
Pickett State Park, TN
Pickett State Park, Tennessee, is approximately a 2-hour drive from Nashville. This state park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
The park is also known for its dark sky viewing opportunities, making it a great place for stargazing. Nearby, you can find local restaurants in the town of Jamestown.
Elizabethtown, KY
Elizabethtown, Kentucky, is about a 2-hour drive from Nashville. This city is known for its historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops and restaurants.
Elizabethtown is also near the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, making it a great place for history buffs.
Local restaurants in Elizabethtown offer a variety of options, from southern comfort food to international cuisine.
Rock Island State Park, TN
Rock Island State Park is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville, making it a perfect day trip destination. This 883-acre park is located on the headwaters of Center Hill Lake at the confluence of the Caney Fork, Collins, and Rocky Rivers.
Known for its rugged beauty and impressive waterfalls, Rock Island State Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty. The park includes the Caney Fork River Gorge, one of Tennessee’s many national treasures.
The gorge is a popular location for hiking and swimming, offering deep-blue pools, scenic trails, and cascades—including Great Falls, a 30-foot waterfall located below the 19th-century cotton textile mill that it powered more than 100 years ago.
Tuscumbia, AL
Tuscumbia, Alabama, is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Nashville. This city is known for its rich history, with several historic sites and museums to explore.
Tuscumbia is also the birthplace of Helen Keller, and the Helen Keller Birthplace is a popular attraction. Local restaurants in Tuscumbia offer a variety of options, from traditional southern food to modern American cuisine.
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville, Tennessee, is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Nashville. Known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural attractions.
You can visit the World’s Fair Park, the site of the 1982 World’s Fair, and the Market Square, a popular shopping and dining area.
Knoxville also offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Knoxville Museum of Art and the Ijams Nature Center.
Weekend Trips from Nashville (3-5 Hours Each Way)
Memphis, TN
Memphis, Tennessee, is approximately a 3-hour drive from Nashville. Known as the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis has a rich musical history.
You can visit the famous Beale Street, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Another notable attraction is the National Civil Rights Museum located at the former Lorraine Motel.
Memphis also offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley.
Tupelo, MS
Tupelo, Mississippi, is about a 3.5-hour drive from Nashville. As the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo is a must-visit for music fans.
You can visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum to learn more about the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s early life.
Tupelo also offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic drive that stretches from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi.
Asheville, NC
Asheville, North Carolina, is about a 4.5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, Asheville is a city that offers something for everyone.
A notable attraction is the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home. Asheville also offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, known for its scenic beauty.
Athens, TN
Athens, Tennessee, is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Nashville. Known as the “Friendly City,” Athens offers a mix of small-town charm and rich history.
You can visit the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum to learn more about the area’s history.
Athens also offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Mayfield Dairy Farms where you can take a tour and sample some ice cream.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, is about a 4-hour drive from Nashville.
As America’s most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains offer stunning natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities. You can hike the park’s many trails, explore historic buildings, and see a wide variety of wildlife.
Nearby, you can enjoy local restaurants in the towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
We really love the Smoky Mountains, and you can see all our guides to the Smoky Mountains here!
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Nashville. The park offers a unique look at the history of the Cumberland Gap, a key passageway through the Appalachian Mountains.
You can hike the park’s trails, explore historic buildings, and visit the visitor center to learn more about the area’s history. Nearby, you can enjoy local restaurants in the town of Middlesboro, Kentucky.
Covington, GA
Covington, Georgia, is approximately a 4-hour drive from Nashville. Known as the “Hollywood of the South,” Covington has been the filming location for over 100 films and television shows.
The city offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Covington Historic District and the Newton County Courthouse.
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis, Indiana, is about a 4.5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its vibrant arts scene and the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indianapolis offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Indianapolis Museum of Art and the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
Trips Over 5 Hours Each Way
Greenville, SC
Greenville, South Carolina, is about a 5-hour drive from Nashville.
Known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities, Greenville offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Greenville County Museum of Art and the Falls Park on the Reedy.
Parke County, IN
Parke County, Indiana, is approximately a 4.5-hour drive from Nashville. Known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World,” Parke County offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival and the Turkey Run State Park.
Oxford, MS
Oxford, Mississippi, is about a 5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its rich literary history, Oxford offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the University of Mississippi and the Rowan Oak, William Faulkner’s former home.
Adventures On The Gorge, Lansing, WV
Adventures On The Gorge in Lansing, West Virginia, is approximately a 6-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its outdoor activities, Adventures On The Gorge offers a variety of adventures, including white water rafting, rock climbing, and zip-lining.
South Walton, FL
South Walton, Florida, is about a 7-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant arts scene, South Walton offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival and the Seaside Repertory Theatre.
See the closest beaches to Nashville here for other beach options
Columbus, OH
Columbus, Ohio, is approximately a 6-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, Columbus offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Columbus Museum of Art and the German Village.
Saint Louis, MO
Saint Louis, Missouri, is about a 5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, Saint Louis offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Saint Louis Zoo and the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Blowing Rock, NC
Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is approximately a 5.5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its beautiful views and outdoor activities, Blowing Rock offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum and the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park.
Gulf Shores, AL
Gulf Shores, Alabama, is about a 7-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, Gulf Shores offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and the Gulf State Park.
Springfield, IL
Springfield, Illinois, is approximately a 5.5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for being the home of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Illinois State Capitol.
Bay St. Louis, MS
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, is about a 7-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant arts scene, Bay St. Louis offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum and the Hollywood Casino.
Savannah, GA
Savannah, Georgia, is approximately a 7-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its beautiful historic district and southern charm, Savannah offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Savannah Historic District and the Forsyth Park.
Little Rock, AR
Little Rock, Arkansas, is about a 5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its vibrant arts scene and historic sites, Little Rock offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site and the William J. Clinton Library and Museum.
Dayton, OH
Dayton, Ohio, is approximately a 5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its rich history in aviation, Dayton offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force and the Dayton Art Institute.
Abingdon, VA
Abingdon, Virginia, is approximately a 5-hour drive from Nashville. Known for its beautiful historic district and the famous Barter Theatre, Abingdon offers a variety of local restaurants and nearby attractions, including the Virginia Creeper Trail and the William King Museum of Art.
Tips for Planning Road Trips from Nashville
As a mom of four boys, I’ve learned a thing or two about planning road trips. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your adventures on the road.
Best Times of the Year for Road Trips
While road trips can be enjoyed any time of the year, some seasons offer unique experiences. Spring and fall are great times to hit the road, as the weather is generally mild and the changing landscapes are beautiful.
Summer is perfect for beach trips to places like Gulf Shores, AL, or South Walton, FL, although you will find it to be a bit crowded. We like to visit beach areas in October. It’s still warm enough to swim but way less crowded!
Winter road trips can lead to magical holiday experiences, especially in towns known for their festive decorations.
Considering Car Rental and Insurance
If you don’t own a car or if your family car isn’t suited for long trips, consider a rental car. Rental companies offer a variety of vehicles to fit your needs, from compact cars to large SUVs.
The first time we considered renting a car for a road trip I wasn’t so sure, but we had an older high mileage car at the time and we were planning on driving from Nashville to Colorado. So to ensure we didn’t have any issues, we rented a van and it was great.
Don’t forget to check your insurance coverage for rental cars. Some credit cards also offer rental car insurance as a benefit.
Packing Essentials for a Road Trip
Packing for a road trip with kids can be a challenge. Essentials include snacks, water, first-aid kit, spare clothes, and entertainment for the kids.
Don’t forget your navigation tools and a good old-fashioned paper map as a backup. If you’re planning to visit national parks or go hiking, pack outdoor essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, and sturdy shoes.
Tips for Finding the Best Places to Stay
Accommodation can make or break a road trip. From boutique hotels in downtown areas to family-friendly resorts and camping sites, there are options for every preference and budget.
Websites and apps can help you find the best deals. Consider places with a kitchen to save on meal costs. And remember, booking in advance is key, especially during peak travel seasons.
Common Questions about Road Trips from Nashville
Cities approximately 5 hours from Nashville include Saint Louis, MO; Little Rock, AR; Dayton, OH; and Greenville, SC. Each offers unique attractions, from the Gateway Arch in Saint Louis to the rich history of Little Rock.
Numerous cities are within driving distance from Nashville, including Memphis, TN; Louisville, KY; Atlanta, GA; and Indianapolis, IN. These cities offer a variety of cultural, historical, and recreational attractions.
Cities about 2 hours from Nashville include Clarksville, TN; Bowling Green, KY; and Huntsville, AL. These cities offer a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities.
Franklin, TN, is approximately 30 minutes from Nashville. Known for its historic downtown and Civil War history, Franklin offers a charming small-town experience near the city.
The closest ocean to Nashville is the Atlantic Ocean, with the closest beach being in Savannah, GA, approximately a 7-hour drive away. For beach destinations, the Gulf of Mexico is also an option, with cities like Gulf Shores, AL, about a 7-hour drive away.
Final Thoughts on Road Trips from Nashville
I hope you’ve enjoyed this look at some of the best road trips from Nashville! This is by no means an exhaustive list, and we’ve done many more than this, but if I were to list them all it would take forever, so we narrowed it down.
Exploring the open road from Nashville has given my family and me some of our most cherished memories. From the historic sites of Springfield, IL, to the stunning natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, each destination offers its unique charm and experiences.
Whether you’re a music lover wanting to follow in the footsteps of legends in Memphis or an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore the adventures on the Gorge in Lansing, WV, there’s a road trip for you. And let’s not forget about the small towns, like Leiper’s Fork, TN, that offer a slower pace and a taste of southern charm.
So, pack up the car, hit the road, and start making your own family memories. The best road trips from Nashville are waiting for you.
Happy travels!
Amanda
