road trip to nashville tennessee

14 Stops that Should Be on Every Tennessee Road Trip

If you’re planning a trip to or through Tennessee via road travel, you definitely have to make several stops and explore the wonderful state. No matter how long you’ll be visiting Tennessee, here are 14 stops that you should definitely work into your itinerary.

As the second most visited home in the United States behind the White House, Graceland is a must see. Enjoy an interactive iPad tour hosted by actor John Stamos that features commentary by both Elvis and his daughter, Lisa Marie. Explore the mansion in full, from the living room to the famous Jungle Room, the kitchen and the Meditation Garden where Elvis was laid to rest. The only room off limits is the upstairs bathroom where Elvis was discovered on the day of his death.

Graceland, Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN, USA, +1 901 332 3322

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

With acres of forest and an abundance of plant and animal life, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in America. It straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. Whether you spend a day hiking or camp out overnight, you can’t beat the views or the opportunities for adventure.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA

Outdoor Knoxville

In an effort to increase Knoxville’s outdoor amenities and create better access to recreational areas, Legacy Parks Foundation runs Outdoor Knoxville . The adventure center offers visitors plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, like renting paddleboards, bikes, or kayaks and fly fishing on the Tennessee River. The Billy Lush Board Shop, Neyland Greenway, and the Visit Knoxville Visitor Outpost are also located at the center.

Outdoor Knoxville, 900 Volunteer Landing Ln, Knoxville, TN, USA, +1 865 525 2585

Knoxville Sunsphere

Built in 1981, the Knoxville Sunsphere was designed as the theme structure for the 1982 World’s Fair and is one of only two remaining structures from the event. It stands 266 feet high and has a 24-karat gold, glass paneled ball that is 75 feet in diameter. On the fourth floor is an observation deck that features a gallery of Knoxville images and a 360-degree view of the city. It is free and open to the public daily.

Knoxville Sunsphere, Knoxville, TN, USA

Stonehaus Winery

The first licensed winery in Tennessee, Stonehaus Winery opened in 1991. It is the only winery in Tennessee with statewide distribution and offers complimentary wine tastings. When the winery first started, it offered five wines that were all sold on site. All of the wines were bottled by hand. After substantial growth, Stonehaus Winery wines can now be found in liquor stores and grocery stores across Tennessee as well as on site. After purchasing a new bottling line in 2006, the winery now bottles up to 3,000 bottles of wine per hour. Stonehaus Winery, 2444 Genesis Rd # 103, Crossville, TN, USA, +1 931 484 9463

Burgess Falls State Park

With four waterfalls that cascade down from over 250 feet, Burgess Fall State Park is known for its natural beauty and family-friendly activities. Visitors can take a 1.5-mile round-trip trail that leads to the edge of the waterfalls and into the gorge. Fishing is allowed below the dam and along the bank of the main waterfall. The Native Butterfly Garden offers native wildflower displays and is where the annual Butterfly Garden Celebration takes place, offering programs, hikes and creek studies. There is also a week-long Junior Ranger Camp available to youth during the summer.

Burgess Falls State Park, 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN, USA, +1 931 432 5312

Jack Daniel’s Distillery

Established in 1866, Jack Daniel’s Distillery was the first registered distillery in the United States . Known for its signature Old. No. 7 whiskey, the brand has expanded its production and flavors over the years while still maintaining the not-so-secret to its success: the use of limestone spring water, which was Jack Daniel’s ingredient discovery. The distillery offers a variety of tours, some that include tastings and one that includes a meal at local Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House & Restaurant.

Jack Daniel’s Distillery, 133 Lynchburg Highway, Lynchburg, TN, USA , +1 931 759 6357

National Civil Rights Museum

Featuring information that spans five centuries, the National Civil Rights Museum offers artifacts, films, interactive media, and listening posts that cover the history of civil rights in the United States. Located at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the museum also explores the 1968 event in the Legacy Building, which begins with the American Civil Rights Movement Timeline. Exhibits feature information on the investigation of the assassination, as well as the American Civil Rights Movement’s impact on human rights across the globe.

National Civil Rights Museum, 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN, USA, +1 901 521 9699

Wildhorse Saloon

Each year, the 66,000 square foot Wildhorse Saloon welcomes more than 1.5 million visitors. The event space has three floors for guests to enjoy, acting as a restaurant, bar, dance floor, and concert venue. Bands large and small grace the stage to play live music, and the venue offers free line dancing lessons that are given by its trained staff. Enjoy hot chicken and fried pickles while dancing in your boots and listening to the sounds of rock and country music classics.

Wildhorse Saloon, 120 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN, USA, +1 615 902 8200

2. Ryman Auditorium

Concert Hall, Music Venue

Tennessee Aquarium

Visitors to the Tennessee Aquarium have two different buildings to explore — River Journey and Ocean Journey. Both buildings feature exhibits that provide information about many types of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife as well as exotic plants. One exhibit, Stingray Bay, allows guest to touch different shark and stingray species. Alligator Bayou is where 13 American Alligators can be found. The aquarium is also home to the nation’s largest salamander, the hellbender, which breathes through its skin as tree frogs chirp around it.

Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN, USA

One of Chattanooga’s most popular attractions is Ruby Falls , the largest and deepest waterfall open to the public in the United States. It’s located over 1,120 feet beneath the surface, inside Ruby Falls Cave, where hundreds of gallons of water rush over by the minute. Ruby Falls was formed sometime after Ruby Falls Cave, when a sinkhole developed and allowed large amounts of water to enter. This water hollowed out the dome area, and, by way of erosion, the waterfall was carved out. Ruby Falls, Chattanooga, TN, USA

Cherohala Skyway

Designated a National Scenic Byway, Cherohala Skyway was dedicated and opened in 1996. It crosses through Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee and Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. At more than 40 miles long, the two-lane road has 15 scenic overlooks with elevations that range from 900 feet above sea level to over 5,400 feet above sea level. A trip across the entire skyway takes about two hours, and along the way you’ll find picnic sites and trail heads for enjoying short travel breaks.

Cherohala Skyway, USA

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Places to Stay

The best glampsites and cabins to book in tennessee.

Where to Go Camping in Tennessee

Where to Go Glamping in Tennessee

Where to Stay in the Great Smoky Mountains, USA

The Best Hotels With a Water Park to Book in Tennessee

The Best Cabins to Book in Tennessee, USA

The Best Hotels to Book in Tennessee for Every Traveler

The Best Budget-Friendly Hotels to Book in Tennessee

The Best Holiday Apartments in Tennessee

See & Do

The best places to see fall foliage in tennessee.

Must-Visit Tennessee Attractions

The Best Lakes to Visit in Tennessee

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5 awesome road trips you can take from Nashville

Editor's note: Please check with every facility when planning your trip. Some may have limited hours or even be closed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

When the coronavirus pandemic hit, my kid and I decided to drive from Baltimore to San Antonio to shelter with our family. On the way, we spent the night in Nashville at the Kimpton Aertson . I've spent many work-related trips in Music City, which has become a hot spot for bachelorette parties, sporting events and even New Year's Eve celebrations.

But as nice as Nashville is, you may be feeling a little stir crazy as the pandemic drags on. Thanks to its central location, locals and visitors can reach a variety of destinations north, south, east and west of Nashville that are great for road trips. If you're in Music City, consider making at least one of these five trips.

Related: 10 tips for anyone taking a road trip right now

Louisville, Kentucky

Distance from Nashville : 2 hours and 30 minutes

Louisville is far more than the Kentucky Derby and bourbon. Named after King Louis XVI, the city was founded by George Rogers Clark in 1778. It's where the cheeseburger was invented and Kentucky fried chicken was born. Right now, the city is selling custom face masks to benefit the Louisville COVID Relief Fund and The Black Artists Fund .

What to do : Louisville has the Urban Bourbon Experience™ , the world's only city-wide trail filled with award-winning micro-distilleries, exhibits and craft cocktail destinations. You can also visit Churchill Downs , home of the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Derby Museum. Baseball fans will want to make the pilgrimage to the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory and get a custom bat. The multicultural Muhammad Ali Center is an award-winning museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the beloved championship boxer, who hailed from Louisville. You can even have locals create a custom list of things to do while in Louisville.

Where to stay : If you can't afford to stay at The Brown Hotel -- the historic property where the Hot Brown sandwich was invented -- at least have a cocktail in its famous Lobby Bar. Families may enjoy staying at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown , with its indoor pool, free breakfast and full kitchens. For those on a budget, consider the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Louisville Downtown .

What to eat and drink : Despite being known for mint juleps, Louisville is where the classic cocktail, the Old Fashioned, was invented in 1881. During the first two weeks of June, the city even celebrates Old Fashioned Fortnight with bourbon events, cocktail specials and National Bourbon Day on June 14. Feast BBQ is the place to go to get your fix of delights including pulled pork and brisket. Local favorite Jack Fry's is known for its shrimp and grits, and you can't leave Louisville without trying Kern's Derby-Pie® , best described as a chocolate-pecan pie. Because it's trademarked, most local restaurants serve their version of it, usually called Chocolate Pecan Pie or some variation thereof. Try the one served at Homemade Ice Cream and Pie Kitchen.

Related: 5 American road trips to take with the family

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Distance from Nashville : Start your drive in Louisville, which is roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes away.

This famous trail highlights where some of the world's best bourbons are distilled. It comprises 18 distilleries, including Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve, Angel's Envy and Bulleit. You can even memorialize your drive on the trail with a passport that you can either pick up at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center at the Frazier Museum in Louisville, at your first distillery stop, or download it online and print it in advance. There are plenty of distilleries in Louisville, so that may be the best place to start. And if you need help planning your trip, the Kentucky Bourbon Train website is there to help.

What to do : Drive south to Shepherdsville to check out the Jim Beam American Stillhouse . An hour away is the Maker's Mark Distillery in Loretto. After spending the night in Loretto, take a quick 45-minute drive to the Wilderness Trail Distillery in Danville. Then, drive north to Wild Turkey Bourbon in Lawrenceburg and also visit the Woodford Reserve distillery in Versailles. Finish with a final swing to Shelbyville to see the Bulleit Distilling Co.

Where to stay : If you want to stay in full bourbon mode, consider a stay at Bourbon Manor in Bardstown, the first bourbon-themed bed and breakfast in the U.S., featuring a bourbon-themed breakfast and a spa. After visiting Woodford Reserve, book a room at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Lexington W - Versailles . And the Country Inn and Suites by Radisson in Shelbyville is a solid option after your tour of the Bulleit distillery.

What to eat and drink : If I'm going to be sampling adult beverages out on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, I may as well eat at the distilleries. Have lunch at Star Hill Provisions, located at Maker's Mark Distillery, which serves bourbon cocktails and premium, farm-to-table fare without the pretense. The Jim Beam stillhouse is home to Fred's Smokehouse , which features dishes such as Devil's Cut™ pulled pork barbecue sandwiches and chocolate bourbon pie topped with Graeter's Jim Beam Bourbon ice cream. And Woodford Reserve's chef-in-residence served bourbon-flavored food including barrelhead brie, turkey brined in bourbon and Kentucky butter cake.

Related: Are we there yet? 6 ways the classic road trip has changed — and stayed the same

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Distance from Nashville : 3 hours, 15 minutes

The park , nestled between North Carolina and Tennessee, was founded in June 1934. Six years later, it was formally dedicated by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Each state transferred deeds for 300,000 acres to the federal government to create the park. Start your trip by going to either the Sugarlands Visitor Center, in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, or the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee, North Carolina, to get the latest information on attractions.

What to do : You'll never be bored here, since the park is home to auto tours, walking and cycling trails, camping, fishing, waterfalls, horseback riding, scenic overlooks, Park Service Ranger-led programs and historic areas to explore. A pandemic-friendly activity is to do a car tour of the park's 384 miles of road, including the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail . Take a hike on the Rainbow Falls Trail or go fishing in one of the park's 2,900 miles of streams, including one of the last wild trout habitats in the eastern U.S.

Where to stay : The only on-site hotel in the park is the Le Conte Lodge . Located on the crest of Mount Le Conte, it can only be reached by hiking. If you want to stay, advance reservations are required. To reach the backcountry campsites , you'll need to hike several miles. If your heart is set on staying in the park but you're not quite up for a hike, you also have your choice of three other campsites:

• Frontcountry : RV and tent camping in a developed campground that has restrooms.
• Group Campgrounds : Large front-country campsites suitable for groups of eight people or more.
• Horse Camps : Small campgrounds, accessible by vehicle, that offer hitch racks for horses and primitive camping facilities.

If camping or hiking to a hotel isn't your thing, there are plenty of hotels, cabins and bed and breakfasts in the area. Consider the Mountain Laurel Chalet Rental s in Gatlinburg, the Black Fox Lodge Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee or the Quality Inn and Suites in Robbinsville, North Carolina.

What to eat and drink : There aren't many places to eat inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The Cades Cove Campground Store has a snack bar that serves breakfast items, hot and cold sandwiches and wraps, soups and chili, pizza, soft-serve ice cream, fountain drinks and other items. After that, you're relegated to scavenging at vending machines. The Old Mill Restaurant , which serves massive portions of Southern comfort food, is a popular eatery in Pigeon Forge. And Gatlinburg's The Peddler Steakhouse gives you a great steak and a nice view of the Little Pigeon River.

Related: 9 things to know about visiting a national park right now

Asheville, North Carolina

Distance from Nashville : 4 hours and over 30 minutes

With its eclectic mix of lovingly preserved architecture (including Art Deco, Beaux-Arts and Neoclassical), downtown center with locally owned shops and art galleries, a hot restaurant scene and lively entertainment spots, Asheville is a vibrant city nestled unassumingly in the Appalachian Mountains. It boasts more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city, and there's also plenty to do for visitors who love the great outdoors.

What to do : No trip to Asheville would be complete without a visit to the Biltmore Estate , George Vanderbilt's 250-room (35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces) French Renaissance castle. Tap your inner artist and check out Roberto Vengoechea's Visions of Creation Gallery , where you can take a one-day workshop to make your own custom silver ring. Drive along the 469-mile scenic Blue Ridge Parkway , known as "America's favorite drive," and the gateway to outdoor adventure in Asheville, including hiking, biking, birdwatching, fishing and tubing down the French Broad River.

Where to stay : After visiting the Biltmore Estate, why not stay at the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate ? It features hotel rooms and more family-friendly studios and suites with a living room and two bathrooms. If you're more of a downtown person, book a room at the AC Hotel Asheville Downtown , which is within walking distance of all the city's hot spots. Or enjoy the hospitality at the Hill House Bed and Breakfast , which serves guests coffee from Javataza, fresh fruit juices, and eggs, cream, breads and cheeses.

What to eat and drink : For great barbecue washed down with a local brew, you'll want to have a meal at 12 Bones Smokehouse . If you're a fan of farm-to-table fare, The Blackbird's menu features the bounty of local farmers, fresh seafood from the Carolina coast, local microbrews, craft cocktails and American wines. For more upscale dining, enjoy gourmet cuisine — including harissa-spiced rack of lamb, pumpkin spice and rye-crusted salmon and cold water lobster and spaghetti — at t he Biltmore Estate's The Dining Room .

Related: Coronavirus tourism done right: A visit to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina

Little Rock, Arkansas

Distance from Nashville : Just over 5 hours

This capital city, which is on the banks of the Arkansas River, is in Pulaski County, the largest in the state. In the heart of Little Rock is the popular River Market District , home to the city's best restaurants, shops, bars, nightlife, museums and hotels. Outdoor enthusiasts also have plenty to do, with city parks offering running and walking trails, bike paths, fishing, private and public golf courses, sports facilities and picnic areas.

What to do : You must visit the Clinton Presidential Center and Park , home to the Clinton Foundation, the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum and the Clinton School of Public Service. Want to see some historic sites? Check out the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site , where nine African American students made history in 1957 as they integrated the schools. Take the kids to the Little Rock Zoo to see the animals and experience the restored historic Spillman Engineering Over the Jumps Carousel. For some outdoor time, visit Pinnacle Mountain State Park , west of Little Rock. There are great views of the city, plus you can enjoy nature trails and even take a hike.

Where to stay : Book a room at The Empress of Little Rock , an award-winning bed and breakfast built in 1888. Amenities include a majestic double stairwell, candlelit breakfasts, hydrotherapy massage jet showers and distinctly decorated guest rooms and suites, all with private bathrooms. The Burgundy Hotel, a Tapestry Collection property by Hilton , is Little Rock's first boutique property, offering double and king studio suites, two-room double and king suites, king whirlpool suites and board room suites. For travelers who prefer camping, there's the Maumelle Recreation Area and Campground , about 20 minutes outside Little Rock. The park is on Lake Maumelle and the Arkansas River and has reservable and walk-in campsites with water and electricity, picnic shelters, playgrounds, showers, flush toilets, a dump station and a boat ramp.

What to eat and drink : Locals swear by Big Orange , known for its craft burgers (white truffle and pecorino, anyone?), amazing salads (such as the Border Town Wedge) and whimsical milkshakes (I'll take a dulce de leche, please). If you want to go more upscale, then Cache Restaurant , in the center of downtown Little Rock, is the place. It's known for using locally sourced vegetables and meats to create three- and nine-course meals, along with vegetarian options. Beer lovers will love the city's microbrew scene, including Stone's Throw Brewing , Lost Forty Brewing and Diamond Bear Brewing . All three serve the pub food you'd expect at a brewery.

Related: Going on road trips? Consider using these credit cards

Bottom line

As the pandemic wears on, there's plenty of time to hit the road for a nearcation or schoolcation . These five destinations are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to places to see on your next road trip from Nashville.

Related: Opening America: State-by-state guide to coronavirus reopening

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Nashville International Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation Guide

Driving in Nashville

Day Trips From Nashville

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

Your Trip to Nashville: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

There once was a time when travelers planned a visit to Nashville simply to attend a music festival or spend hours in the city's legendary honky tonks listening to the latest up and coming country band. While those activities remain deeply rooted in the local culture, Nashville now has much more to offer travelers as well.

Over the past decade or so, it has become a culinary hub , offering some of the best food found anywhere in the southern U.S. The city also features an array of outdoor green spaces to explore, a thriving art scene, and some of the best local breweries to sample too. Oh yeah, and the music still remains pretty great, offering a mix of genres and big name stars, along with the hottest new talent looking to make it big.

This guide will give you a good overview of what to expect when visiting the Music City, providing you with valuable information that will help you make the most of your stay.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : The good news is that the honky tonks are open all year round and live music can be found pretty much every day of the week in Nashville. That said, the city is well known for its hot and humid summers, which can be challenging for visitors to endure. That also happens to be the busiest tourist season too, with larger crowds filling up hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, and other attractions. The shoulder seasons of mid-March through May and late-September through November provide better temperatures and fewer people to contend with. Winters are relatively free of snow and ice, although it can still get quite cold. Just pack a warm jacket and you'll be fine.

Getting Around: Nashville's public transportation system mainly consists of semi-reliable bus service. The purple WeGo buses can be found throughout the city and can get you to where you want to go provided you're not in a hurry. The Music City Transit Tracker app can help make it easier to catch the bus, but honestly using the transit directions option in your favorite maps app (Apple Maps or Google Maps) is just as good, if not better. Nashville is a driving city however, so most visitors bring a vehicle, rent a car, or use ride sharing apps. Electric scooters are common throughout the busier parts of the city as well and are a popular option for getting around.

Check out our guide to Nashville's public transportation for more info on the MTA bus system.

Travel Tip: Nashville welcomes around 16 million visitors annually   and a lot of them are long-weekend visitors, meaning travelers tend to show up on Thursday and head home on Sunday. That means the city can be surprisingly quiet from Sunday evening through Wednesday. If you can plan a visit at that time of the week, you'll find crowds are less of a hassle. Or, if you can extend your stay to incorporate one or two of those days, you'll have an easier time booking a reservation at that hot restaurant or getting into a music show.

Things to Do

For many visitors to Nashville it is all about live music. If that's your goal, chances are you won't be disappointed as there are always bands playing somewhere. But the city also has plenty of great food to sample as well and a number of top-notch breweries too. You'll also find historical places to explore, unique shopping, surprisingly great parks, and an array of professional sports teams as well. Whether you're coming for just a day or two, or have an extended stay planned, chances are you'll find plenty of things to keep you busy in the Music City.

Music: If you have trouble finding live music in Nashville, you're simply not looking all that hard. You're likely to find artists and bands playing at the airport upon your arrival, but for a more suitable venue head down to Lower Broadway to check out the honky-tonk scene. Many of the bars in Nashville have bands playing every night, but for a real treat check the schedule at the Ryman , which just might be one of the best live music venues on the planet.

Museums: Nashville has a wide variety of museums to explore, which are great on a hot, muggy day. The Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-see for fans of the genre and the Tennessee State Museum is a walk through the local history and it's absolutely free to visit. Kids of all ages will love the Adventure Science Center , where you can actually have fun and learn something new at the same time.

History: For a slice of Civil War history, head over to Fort Negley to learn about the largest fortification built for Union troops after the city fell in 1862.   Nashville's Hermitage allows people to learn about the life of President Andrew Jackson and of the people enslaved there through tours of the estate. Nashville's Hermitage was For a different kind of history, head over to Music Row to see the iconic Nashville recording studios, some of which have been named to the National Register of Historic Places .

Parks: The Nashville greenway crisscrosses the city in a variety of places, offering visitors a place to take a quiet stroll and just stretch their legs a bit. But several other parks have a lot to offer as well, including Centennial — which has a full-size replica of the Greek Parthenon – and Radnor Lake , which features six miles of walking trail and the chance to spot an array of wildlife.

Sports: The Music City is home to both the Tennessee Titans of the NFL and the Nashville Predators of the NHL. It also has a AAA baseball team called the Nashville Sounds and a pro soccer team called the Nashville SC (soccer club). In short, that means sports fans will find a lot to love no matter what time of year they visit.

What to Eat and Drink

Nashville is one of those great destinations where the food can range from simple, down-home fare up to gourmet options that are so good you'll think you've died and gone to heaven. The city's signature dish is without a doubt Nashville Hot Chicken, which brings enough spice to test the taste buds of the most adventurous eaters. Give it a try at Hattie B's or Princes Hot Chicken to see what the fuss is all about. For something a bit more elevated and upscale, try the homemade pastas at Rolf & Daughters or sample just about anything on the menu at City House and Adele's .

As with most cities across the U.S., Nashville is home to some outstanding breweries as well. Yazoo is probably the most well known of the local brands, but places like Jackalope and Black Abbey make many fine options as well. If bourbon is more your style, head over to the Oak Bar to sample their stock. The famous and historical bar has been open for more than a century and has 130 bourbons to choose from. For great wine and great atmosphere, pack a picnic lunch and head out to Arrington Vineyards , where the setting is just as enchanting as what's in the bottle.

Where to Stay

There are a number of great hotels to choose from in Nashville, with many of them being centrally located in the downtown area. This makes them a convenient option for those visiting Lower Broadway, or partaking in the city's vibrant nightlife. You'll find some well-known chain hotels located on the periphery of the region, but places like the Hermitage Hotel and Noelle are found right in the middle of the action. If you want to stay a bit further out, the Opryland Hotel is a popular choice, with restaurants, shops, lush gardens, and even a waterpark found on premises.

Getting There

The best way to get to the Music City is by flying directly into the Nashville International Airport . The airport services around 18 million passengers annually.   Centrally located in town, travelers can rent a car, catch a bus, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service. It is roughly a 20-minute drive to downtown in a car. Alternatively, many people drive into Nashville too, with interstates 24, 40, and 65 providing good access from several directions.

Culture and Customs

In case you haven't figured it out just yet, music is the soul of Nashville. But don't be fooled, this isn't just a place for country fans. On any given night, visitors can find blues, jazz, rock, bluegrass, and a number of other genres being played too. Don't expect to find any locals wearing cowboy hats or boots, this is a rapidly growing, forward-thinking, and enlightened city where diversity, culture, and creativity are embraced.

That said, the city is still Southern to the core, which means the local hospitality is warm and welcoming. While Nashville has grown dramatically in recent years, it has also stayed in touch with its roots. Technology has become just as pervasive as barbecue and fried chicken, making this large city feel like a small hometown at the same time.

Money-Saving Tips

• Most live music is free. Sure, some bars will charge a cover, but it is easy to find places that to don't charge an admission fee to listen to the band.
• The area parks are free to use as well and often host events like farmer's markets, art festivals, sports activities, and even live music.
• Several of the city's museums, including the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee Agricultural Museum have no entry fees.
• Take a self-guided walking tour of downtown. There is a lot to see and do in the downtown area of Nashville and it is easily accessible on foot. You'll find shops, restaurants, parks, and other attractions that you can explore completely on your own.
• Discover more free things to do here .

Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. "Statistics & Facts."

Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee. "Fort Negley's History."

The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority. "BNA to Close One Runway for Full Reconstruction." April 3, 2020.

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• Bungy Jumping
• Horse Riding
• Ice-Climbing
• Kite-Surfing
• Motor Sport
• Rock Climbing
• Scuba Diving
• Shark Diving
• Snowboarding
• Stand Up Paddle-Boarding
• Wakeboarding
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Road Trip , Travel

Ultimate tennessee road trip: memphis, nashville, and more.

Page Contents

When I started to plan my Tennessee road Trip, it was always going to start and finish in Nashville and include Memphis and the Smoky Mountains.

There are daily flights direct from London to Nashville with British Airways, and it takes just over 9 hours. I’ll talk about the complete Deep South Road Trip in another article, but for now, if you want an itinerary for a few days exploring Tennessee, look no further.

In this article it makes sense to start in Memphis and finish in the Smoky Mountains. But you can of course do both, or even base yourself in Nashville and do it that way. It’s up to you!

Road Trip in Tennessee – Overview

Here is the road trip I did, and that I recommend you do too, as it offers a mix of adventure, landscapes, and culture:

• The Great Smoky Mountains

Best Time for a Road Trip in Tennessee

The best time for a road trip in Tennessee is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November).

These months offer pleasant weather, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases stunning autumn colors.

Both seasons provide comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and exploring the state’s scenic routes and attractions.

How Long to Plan for a Tennessee Road Trip?

A Tennessee road trip can vary in length, but ideally, plan for 7 to 10 days. This duration allows you to explore major attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains, Nashville’s music scene, and Memphis’ historical sites without rushing.

If time permits, I recommend extending your trip to 2 weeks lets you discover hidden gems on the way, and I’m sure you’ll love that!

How Much to Plan for a Tennessee Road Trip?

Budgeting for a Tennessee road trip depends on several factors like accommodation, dining, and activities. On average, plan to spend around $150-$200 per day.

This estimate includes moderate lodging, meals, gas, and entry fees for attractions. For a more budget-friendly trip, consider camping or staying in budget hotels, and for a luxury experience, upscale hotels and fine dining will increase the budget significantly.

Remember to set aside extra for souvenirs and unexpected expenses.

Best Tours in Tennessee

Stop 1: memphis.

No Tennessee road trip is complete without visiting Memphis, and this is where I started. Honestly, I could have spent so many days exploring this city. Memphis is also a really easy city to navigate on foot, so you can have a break from driving.

Things to Do in Memphis

Memphis is located along the Mississippi River, just a short distance away from the state lines of Arkansas and Mississippi. Known for its blues music, delicious BBQ food, and culture, so there’s a lot to do here.

Below, I’m going to cover some of my must-do attractions, so you can truly make the most of your trip. This includes the iconic Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the Sun Studio!

A must for any Tennessee road trip itinerary, Graceland was once the home of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n Roll. This huge complex has countless museums, interactive experiences, Elvis’s private airplanes, restaurants, and shops.

For the best experience, I’d recommend booking your tickets in advance and spending the day here if you can. In some of the exhibitions you are restricted to only taking photos, no video.

Make sure you check out Elvis’s remarkable car collection and try a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich in Glady’s diner, a favourite snack for Elvis!

Must try: fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, a favourite of Elvis!

Graceland is open daily from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm and the entrance fee depends on the package you choose and can go from $28 to $285 per person – Pricey, but definitely worth it!

No trip to Memphis is complete without visiting the iconic Sun Studio, which has seen several famous stars head through its doors. That includes Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and the King of Rock ‘n Roll himself, Elvis Presley.

The tour lasts between 40-50 minutes, although allow yourself some waiting time. It’s a busy spot!

The best way to visit Sun Studio is to book your tickets online , which also include a Music history bus Tour. That said, I recommend booking early as this tour sells out often.

Edge Motor Museum

This awesome car museum is under a 5-minute walk from Sun Studio, so I’d suggest visiting them at the same time. Here, you’ll get to witness over a dozen dreamy American sports cars, dating from post-war to the 1970s.

At the Edge Motor Museum, you’ll also get to learn all about the trends, design, and engineering of these cars.

I recommend booking your ticket ahead of time, which will save you some time once you get there. For only $10 per person, the Edge Motor Museum is one of the best attractions to include in your Tennessee road trip!

Old Dominick Distillery & Tour

With a 150-year history, Old Dominick Distillery & Tour is perfect for the whisky and spirit lovers.

Located in Downtown Memphis, this distillery offers a fantastic 45-minute tour that includes tastings and offers you the chance to learn about the history of this place and its whisky.

The tour includes a tasting of their gin, vodka and 3 whiskey’s! My favourite was the Huling Station, lovely. We also found time to grab an Old Fashioned before we left.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music was once a tiny movie theatre until the late 1950s when it became a popular recording studio.

Throughout the years, this place has produced some epic hits, and as you explore the museum, you’ll learn all about this! Not to mention there’s an awesome gift shop!

I really enjoyed learning about the history here, and how welcoming to all Stax was, at a time where there was a lot of racial tension in the United States.

As you walk through you realise just how many artists created music here. Without Stax the world would have been robbed of so many great albums.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm and the tickets cost $15 per person. That said, when you book online, you’ll get a $2 discount, which is excellent!

Take a Food Tour In Downtown Memphis

For foodies visiting Tennessee, joining a food tour in Memphis is easily one of the things you can’t skip in town

This delectable tour takes you to six different hotspots, from family-owned eateries to award-winning restaurants, all while discovering the culture and history of this dynamic Tennessee city.

You’ll enjoy seven specially prepared food tastings, using only sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. From hot tamales to house-made desserts, every dish is a classic, and you’ll love it!

This private guided tasting tour is perfect for foodies who want to ditch the tourist traps and enjoy the tastiest treats like an insider. The catch? This tour sells super fast, and you’ll want to book as soon as possible!

Riverboat Cruise On The Mississippi River

If there’s one cool way to discover Memphis, this is definitely the one! The Memphis combo tour includes amazing sightseeing opportunities and a riverboat cruise on the legendary Mississippi River.

You’ll start with a guided Memphis city day tour, where you’ll get the chance to see the famous Beale Street, iconic Victorian Village neighborhoods, and other historical landmarks.

The guide will tell you fun and interesting stories about the cultural landmarks, statues, and historical events such as the tragic assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

And after this, board a paddlewheel boat for a scenic cruise on the iconic Mississippi River. Enjoy the refreshing river breeze as you take in the incredible views of Memphis from a different perspective.

Don’t miss the chance to take this combo tour – it’s packed with all that Memphis has to offer, from modern-day sights to historical landmarks to the glory of the Mississippi River.

Other Things to Do in Memphis

If you find yourself with more time in Memphis, then why not check out the National Civil Rights Museum or the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum?

If you’re all museum’d out (it does happen) then other popular attractions in the city include Memphis Zoo, Beale Street, Memphis Botanic Garden, and The Peabody Hotel.

Where to stay in Memphis

There are many hotels worth staying at in Memphis, but here below are the best ones you’ll want to consider for one night or more.

Luxury: Hotel Napoleon

Hotel Napoleon is set in a gorgeous building that was built in 1902. Known for its Romanesque structures, gorgeous lobby, and fleur-de-lis, this hotel has a lot to offer. Especially as some of the rooms feature bay windows, so you can admire the epic city views!

Mid-Range: DoubleTree by Hilton Memphis Downtown

Located in the heart of Memphis, this DoubleTree by Hilton is one of the best options for a nice stay without breaking the bank.

They offer a gym, beautiful rooms with fast WiFi and a spotless bathroom, and all the amenities you need.

The breakfast in the morning is a nice added touch, and you’ll love waking up in the morning when staying here!

Budget: La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis

Located only 2 miles from Memphis Airport, La Quinta Hotel is a great option to stay in Memphis with affordable prices without sacrificing the quality.

They provide everything you need from fast WiFi to an outdoor pool to a delicious breakfast and nice rooms.

Also, they offer a shuttle to go to Graceland, and that is priceless!

Where to Eat in Memphis

We ate at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, which is famous for its spicy fried chicken. This casual eatery is a popular spot, and we’d highly recommend it. Another fantastic option is Slider Inn Downtown, which (as the name suggests) is known for its delicious slider trios and fries!

Best Tours in Memphis

Stop 2: nashville.

Around a 3-hour drive from Memphis, you’ll find the state’s capital city of Nashville. As such, it’s a must for any Tennessee road trip!

Things to Do in Nashville

Nashville is a vibrant and bustling city, most famous for its music and food scene. However, you’ll also find fantastic culture, art, sports, and architecture here, so there’s something for everyone.

Dubbed the ‘Music City’, this incredible destination is best explored by using the All-Access Pass , which allows you to choose six awesome attractions, as well as offering you six exclusive discounts.

Here’s my list of the best things to do in Nashville!

Take a Helicopter Tour Over Nashville Downtown

Get a bird’s eye view of Nashville’s skyline with a Downtown Helicopter Tour! If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, this tour is perfect for you.

From the State Capitol building to the Nissan Stadium, you’ll fly over famous landmarks while enjoying the breathtaking views of Tennessee’s rolling hills.

Have your cameras ready as we pass by the Parthenon at Centennial Park and the Ryman Auditorium, home to some of country music’s biggest legends.

Of course, we couldn’t forget about the Country Music Hall of Fame, Bridgestone Arena, and the AT&T building, which are all part of Nashville’s rich history and vibrant culture.

All in all, when on a Tennessee road trip, it’s hard to find a cooler activity to join!

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the largest museums in the world, so I’d recommend spending at least two hours here. But allow more time if you have it.

During your visit, you’ll get to learn all about the history and culture of country music, visit world-class exhibitions, take part in some fun activities, and even listen to live music!

This is one of the best things to do in Nashville and, rightfully so, it gets very busy, and I recommend booking your tickets ahead of time.

The museum opens daily from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm and tickets only cost $27.95 – A bargain for such an experience!

National Museum of African American Music

Also known as NMAAM, this is the only museum of its kind in America. Focusing on the country’s black music and the celebration of African-American artists, this is the perfect place to visit if you’re a music lover.

The experience is extremely immersive and there are several fantastic galleries to explore, including the ‘Rivers of Rhythm’ and ‘One Nation Under a Groove’.

Please make sure you watch the video to see Dave and I take part in a Gospel Choir and participate in a rap battle. Yes you read that correctly.

The national museum opens daily at 10.00 am until 5.00 pm (apart from weekends when they open at 12.00 pm) and the tickets cost $26.95 per person.

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Tennessee is home to several awesome distilleries, with Nelson’s Brier Distillery being a popular option. In fact, it’s home to the original ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ and is the most historic distillery in Nashville.

Distillery tours take place daily and last between 45-60 minutes. You’ll get to walk through the production floor and try some premium whiskeys!

Marathon Motor Works & Marathon Village

If you have the time, I’d recommend heading to Marathon Motor Works and Marathon Village, right next door to Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery.

Marathon Village is a collection of businesses housed in the buildings that were once home to Marathon Motor Works. And they all seem to have a boutique or crafts feel to them, along with a few distilleries.

Nearby, you’ll find several restaurants and a variety of funky stores, which sell everything from vinyl records and Harley-Davidson apparel to clothing and jewellery.

Old Town Trolley Tours of Nashville

If you’re looking for quirky things to do in Nashville, then go on an old-town trolley tour – trust me, you won’t regret it. These tours have been operating since 1980 and you’ll have a knowledgeable guide onboard as you head around the city.

Not to mention, these trolley tours offer unlimited hop-on & hop-off and plenty of stops! It’s a great way to get a feel for Nashville, and make sure you plan which places you want to stop at.

Most of the things to do on this list are stops on the Trolley Tour, so make sure not to miss it!

The Parthenon

The Parthenon is something you certainly wouldn’t expect to see in Nashville. As the centrepiece of Centennial Park, this iconic landmark will certainly remind you of Greece, as it’s a full-size replica!

Aside from being an awesome spot to photograph, The Parthenon also acts as the city’s art museum, so check out the exhibits during your time here.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

This state park is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to relax outdoors. There’s a World War II memorial here, as well as the Bicentennial Carillon, which is worth a visit.

However, the highlight of this place has to be the awesome views of Capitol Hill and the Capitol building!

Downtown Broadway Nightlife

As Nashville is known as the ‘Music City’ it would be rude not to find some live music during your visit. Popular venues for this include Honky Tonk Central, The Stage on Broadway, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, and Robert’s Western World.

Honestly, I’d be here all day naming the best spots as there are so many to choose from. I didn’t want to love it, but my favourite bar was Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk & Steakhouse, it just had my kind of music!

Other Things to Do in Nashville

If you have more time in Nashville, then you won’t run out of things to do. Other popular attractions in Tennessee’s capital include the Nashville Zoo, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery.

There are several awesome museums to visit too including the Johnny Cash Museum, the Tennessee State Museum, and the Adventure Science Center.

Where to Stay in Nashville

There are many hotels worth staying at in Nashville, but here below are the best ones you’ll want to consider for one night or more.

Luxury: Bobby Hotel

Centrally located in Nashville, Bobby Hotel is one of the best places to stay in town. Steps away from Broadway Street, they offer a rooftop pool and a lounge, as well as on-site restaurants and stunning rooms.

Talking about the rooms, all of them are spotless and modern, with a Smart TV and Netflix included.

All in all, one incredible hotel to spend the night at in Nashville.

Mid-Range: The Gallatin

We stayed at The Gallatin Boutique Hotel that’s located in the charming East Nashville neighbourhood. The rooms are spacious and cosy. Not to mention, The Gallatin plays an important role in giving back to the community, through a variety of local projects.

Budget: Sleep Inn Nashville Downtown Opryland Area

Featuring all the amenities you need on a holiday like an outdoor pool complimentary breakfast, cosy rooms, and great deals, Sleep Inn in Nashville is a great hotel to spend the night at!

All rooms are spotless, spacious enough for a few days in town, and you’ll be near the major tourist attractions, which is a nice bonus.

Where to Eat in Nashville

No trip to the city is complete without eating at Nashville Farmer’s Market. Here, you’ll find a variety of local eateries serving everything from tasty curries to ramen!

I’d also recommend Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint which is known for its classic BBQ dishes, taco trays, and scrumptious burgers.

Stop 3: The Great Smoky Mountains

To round off the perfect Tennessee road trip, make sure you head to the Great Smoky Mountains. Located under an hour’s drive from the city of Knoxville, this amazing destination is home to the most visited national park in the United States.

Covering an impressive 520,000 acres, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park features ancient mountains, Appalachian culture, and a wide variety of wildlife.

However, it’s perhaps most famous for the iconic blue mist that seems to cover the valley. For the best experience in this national park (and surrounding area), take a look at my top things to do below!

Anakeesta, Gatlinburg

Anakeesta is an awesome mountaintop adventure park that’s home to popular attractions such as the AnaVista Observation Tower, the Dueling Zipline, and the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster.

However, the Canopy Treetop Walkway has to be the highlight as it’s North America’s longest tree-based skywalk. If you’re lucky, you might even get to spot a bear from here!

Skyland Ranch

Skyland Ranch is a quirky amusement park in Sevierville. It’s set on a 100-acre farm and boasts exhilarating rides, fantastic eateries, shops, and live entertainment. You’ll even find miniature animals on-site!

One of the best attractions has to be the Horizon Skyride which will take you to the top of Skyland Ranch, offering epic views of the Smoky Mountains.

There is also a fun mountain coaster to ride, and we meet a real legend; Gary Biscuit Davis who played banjo on tour with Dolly Parton for 5 years.

Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park

Outdoor Gravity Park is the United States’ only zorbing park making it a must-visit. You’ll be flying down a 1000-foot hill in an 11-foot huge inflatable ball, so what’s not to love?

Better yet, there are three different tracks to choose from, and you can do this activity both in summer and winter.

Downtown Sevierville

While exploring the Smoky Mountains, make sure you head to Downtown Sevierville. Home to a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and stores, there’s plenty to do.

I’d recommend heading to the Pines for some tasty food, delicious drinks, and games, such as bowling, Dutch shuffleboard, retro video games, and foosball. Don’t miss out on seeing the Sevier County Courthouse either.

And don’t miss the famous Dolly Parton statue, right outside Chancery Court Clerk & Master.

Last but not least, if you have more time available in town, I highly recommend booking a our to 3 Pigeon Forge Wineries with Tastings , as it’s by far the best experience.

If you’re planning to include the Great Smoky Mountains on your Tennessee road trip (which you should), then make sure you hike to Rainbow Falls, which is a 2.7-mile (4 km) hike one way.

Other popular hikes within the national park include Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald, Charlie’s Bunion, and the Chimney Tops.

You never know, you might be lucky enough to spot bear cubs!

Other Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains

While exploring the Smoky Mountains, I’d recommend spending some time wildlife-watching, as you’ve got a chance to spot bears, elk, and deer among other mammals, along with a variety of birdlife.

Guided horseback rides are another popular activity, and there are also 90 historic buildings found in the national park, including barns, churches, and schools.

Where to Stay in the Great Smoky Mountains

There are many hotels worth staying at in the Great Smoky Mountains, but here below are the best ones you’ll want to consider for one night or more.

Luxury: Greystone Lodge on the River

Nestled in Gatlinburg near Ripley’s Aquarium, Greystone Lodge has an outdoor pool free parking, a gym, and rooms that are to die for.

You’ll find a beautiful bathroom as well as fast WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and everything else you could ever need while enjoy the road trip in Tennessee.

Mid-Range: Music Road Resort Hotel and Inn

On the hunt for an affordable property with beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains? Music Road Resort is a great choice.

All their rooms are clean and comfortable, they provide a microwave and a fridge, and even a coffee machine to wake up off the right foot.

They have an outdoor pool and a fitness centre to work out after exploring around, and a playground for children, and this is nice when travelling as a family.

Budget: Mountain Aire Inn Sevierville

Mountain Aire Inn is another great property to stay at near the Great Smoky Mountains, with excellent deals, a free parking, a beautiful outdoor pool, and helpful staff.

While this is a 2-star hotel, you’ll get great service in a nice area in Sevierville, all for less than $100 a night!

Where to Eat in the Great Smoky Mountains

The Appalachian is a popular eatery in Sevierville that offers an intimate dining experience and delicious Southern Appalachian cuisine. Although it only opened in 2021, this place quickly became one of Sevierville’s best eateries, and it’s not hard to see why with its farm-to-table approach.

We had a fantastic meal at the Chef’s table, where you get a one-of-a-kind multi-course menu that you won’t see anywhere else. This was truly an amazing culinary treat.

Just like that, our Tennessee Road Trip has come to its conclusion! As you can see, there are tons of awesome things to do in this state, from exploring bustling cities to admiring the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Have you ever been to Tennessee? If you have, I’d love to hear about the destinations you’ve visited and if there’s anywhere else you’d add to this road trip. Don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments below!

Please make sure you take a look at the rest of the Deep South Road Trip articles; Things to do in New Orleans , Alabama State Parks and the Mississippi Road Trip .

Founder & Editor of Intrepid Escape, a huge lover of adventure, adrenaline, sport & fitness. After travelling extensively for the last 12 years, Scott started to document his travels before fulfilling an important lifelong goal by starting Intrepid Escape. He has since become a full-time Travel Writer, Videographer, Presenter and Producer.

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Planning an 8 day trip to Nashville and Memphis (4 days in each city) this September. Was advised that we should only do 3 nights in Nashville; 2 nights in Memphis. Will have a car but what other town (close de) that is a must see? We are both seniors and don’t do a lot of walking. Suggestions please…ty

Linda, there are lots of stops in between Nashville and Memphis that you will find fun things to do that do not require a lot of walking. Brownsville, 50 miles east of Memphis is the hometown of Tina Turner, which features a museum and lots of great local restaurants, as well as Tennessee’s tallest metal sculpture – The Mindfield. Next is Jackson TN, home of Carl Perkins and other great musicians plus, again, great food. South of Jackson in Selmer is the famous Rockabilly Murals and a neat downtown to visit. Stop in Camden and pay homage at the crash site of Country legend Patsy Kline and then visit Loretta Lynn’s home at Hurricane Mills as you make your way closer to Nashville. All of this great American music history is along Interstate 40 (aka Music Highway) between Memphis and Nashville. Enjoy your visit to Tennessee.

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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.)

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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A Road Trip to Nashville, Tennessee

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Read my full disclosure  here .

I love a good road trip — and one of the best ones I have ever taken was from Washington, D.C. to Nashville, Tennessee. As a road trip destination, Nashville is so accessible from other East Coast cities, yet has such a different vibe than Atlanta, Washington, D.C., or New York City. Plus, there is so much  to do in Nashville , whether you are an art lover, history buff, foodie or a music fan.

Getting to Nashville, TN

Image via  Flickr  by Kyle Simourd

Nashville is about a 10-hour drive from Washington, D.C., 13 hours from New York City, 6.5 from Charlotte, North Carolina, and only 3.5 hours from Atlanta, Georgia. From the northeast, as you ride through Virginia into Tennessee, you will be passing through beautiful Smoky Mountain terrain, making you feel worlds away from East Coast life.

Of course if driving isn’t your thing, or you are coming from much further away, no worries. You can always fly into the Nashville International Airport, serviced by all major carriers.

Where to Stay in Nashville, TN

Once you arrive in Nashville, I recommend staying in a hotel close to Broadway, so you can walk to the great restaurants and venture out to hear live music. This  Holiday Inn Express in Downtown Nashville  will put you right in the heart of the music scene. If boutique hotels are more your scene, consider booking  The Hotel Indigo .

What to Do in Nashville, TN

The aforementioned lower section of Broadway is referred to as the Honky Tonk Highway. Meaning any night of the week, you can wander into one of many establishments playing live music. And not just country music. There are spots that play bluegrass, rock and roll, and even “ Brazilabilly ,” which combines traditional country music with a Latin flair! Check out this full list of  Honky Tonk Highway joints .

P.S. Don’t discount Nashville as a grown-ups–only destination. Check out this list of  kid-friendly Nashville restaurants with live music .

Once you’ve had your music fill, check out some of the other sites Nashville has to offer. I mean where else, besides Greece, can you find a full-scale Parthenon. Well, it’s a replica of the Athens landmark, but this site is one to see.

While you are out sightseeing, be sure to check out The Hermitage, which was home to President Andrew Jackson. History and architecture buffs will enjoy exploring this fully restored, 19th century home.

Up for exploring? The check out Mammoth Cave , a short drive from Nashville!

Where to Eat in Nashville, TN

After taking in all the sights, be sure to experience Nashville’s culinary scene. The hot restaurant in town has to be  Hattie B’s Hot Chicken  where you can order your chicken mild, medium, hot, or Shut the Cluck Up !

Of course a trip to Nashville would not be complete without some real Tennessee Bar-B-Que. Tennessee BBQ is characterized by slow-cooked pork shoulder, vinegar-based sauces, and dry rubs. Check out this list of the best  BBQ joints in Nashville .

It’s been a while since I road-tripped out to Nashville, Tennessee. A visit to the Music City is definitely high on my upcoming travel list. I know my kids would love this little city. Have you ever been to Nashville, Tennessee?

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Icon of the seas review: is the new royal caribbean ship worth the hype, sandals grande st. lucian review, comparing all three sandals st. lucia resorts, 12 comments to “a road trip to nashville, tennessee”.

I have always wanted to take a drive to see the smoky mountains! Also Nashville sounds amazing I love the idea of wandering to places with live music! It’s always the perfect start to the night!

Looks like your trip was so much fun! We also drove there from AR and can’t wait to go back soon!

I lived in Nashville for a year and it was incredible! It really is an awesome place!

Nashville is on my list! Great tips!

Nashville is definitely on my bucket list! Thanks for all the tips!

I’ve always wanted to go to Nashville. It just seems like such a cool place. Thanks for the great tips!

I can’t wait to go to Nashville! Thanks for all the tips mama.😘

Nashville is one of my favorite cities. Glad you like it!

I love Nashville so much and wish I could drive there for a fun road trip! My sister lives there and the surrounding areas are so beautiful, it would be such a fun trip in a car. Thanks for sharing!

I’m a Nashville native, and I still live here! If you do end up taking the kids, the Adventure Science Center is really cool (though I haven’t been in years), and ice skating at the Centennial Sportsplex (near the Parthenon) is a lot of fun. I love my city, and I need to get going on a Nashville guide for my blog!

that is so cool! Thanks for the tips!

This looks like so much fun. I’m definitely feeling the Indigo Hotel! Thanks for the post!

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Ultimate Tennessee Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

Welcome to our ultimate Tennessee road trip planner!

We created this planner to help you plan the perfect road trip around Tennessee and it contains all the essential information you need to plan your trip today including budget and costs, car rentals, what to eat, where to stay, etc.

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of Tennessee itineraries as well as get more information on Tennessee road trip must-see attractions including Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, Gatlinburg, and the Great Smoky Mountains.

Our mission? To make sure you have a blast in Tennessee!

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full  Disclosure  here. Thank you!

Why visit Tennessee?

Tennessee is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience all that America has to offer.

From the Music City of Nashville, to Memphis with its rich history and culture, or Chattanooga with its vibrant arts scene – there’s something for everyone in Tennessee.

Tennessee is a state with music in its soul. Listen to country music, jazz blues, gospel, and folk music. Visit iconic sites such as the Grand Ole Opry and Elvis’s Graceland Mansion.

Tennessee is also blessed with abundant natural beauty. Explore the beautiful state and hike through the famous Smoky Mountains. See the splendid fall colors from Lookout Mountain.

Explore historic sites like Chattanooga National Military Park or Belle Meade Plantation or take a tour of the many museums.

Foodies can enjoy a variety of delicious Southern dishes from barbeque to biscuits and off course, the famous Nashville hot chicken.

Sip wine on a tour of the wineries along the way. Try some of the famous Jack Daniels whisky or Tennessee’s famous moonshine.

Tennessee road trip is one of the most underrated road trips in America and we definitely recommend it for everyone.

Best of Tennessee Road Trip Itinerary

Use our Tennessee road trip itinerary to explore a variety of natural, cultural, and historic attractions in the state.

Begin your Tennessee road trip in Memphis and then drive east towards Nashville and Smoky Mountains.

Finally, explore Chattanooga and the many attractions near Lookout Mountain.

Spend a minimum of 7 to 10 days to see all the highlights.

If you can spend only 4 or 5 days in Tennessee, then explore either the east or west or south or central Tennessee.

Western Tennessee is primarily Memphis and its surroundings.

The Memphis Area – 3 Days

Memphis is Tennessee’s largest city with a rich cultural heritage.

Memphis is known as the Blues Capital of the World and is especially famous for its live music venues and museums.

Beale Street

The Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum on Beale Street pays homage to the pioneers of soul and rock genres.

Visitors can listen to music clips, see costumes worn by stars, and explore other interesting artifacts about the city’s music scene.

Follow it up with a walk on Beale Street and listen to live music, buy souvenirs, and enjoy the nightlife.

Culinary Scene

The city is also famous for the Memphis style barbecue.

Eat the ribs and pulled pork at iconic spots like Rendezvous BBQ, Corky’s BBQ, and Central BBQ on your Tennessee trip. Search for your favorite by visiting them all!

Head to the trendy neighborhood of Overton Square for fine dining, amazing murals, and nightlife.

Elvis Presley and Graceland

Memphis is also home to Graceland, which was the former home of Elvis Presley.

On a tour of the historic mansion, you can see an extensive collection of costumes he wore on stage, his airplanes, as well as his famous Cadillac which was featured in many of his movies.

National Civil Rights Museum

Undoubtedly, no road trip to Memphis can be complete without visiting the National Civil Rights Museum at Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968.

Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated here in 1968 and the site has been converted into a museum that commemorates MLK’s life and legacy.

At the National Civil Rights Museum, you can learn about MLK’s history, come face-to-face with powerful artifacts from the movement, and explore exhibits on segregation.

Other Memphis Attractions

Families should visit the Memphis Zoo located in Midtown Memphis.

Take a photo of the charming Memphis bridge spanning the Mississippi River at night and also visit the beautiful Mud Island State Park.

Here you will find the famous Memphis sign which is a popular Instagram spot in the city.

After Memphis, continue your road trip in central Tennessee at Nashville.

Nashville – 3 Days

Nashville is the capital of Tennessee and has a rich history.

Spend a couple of family fun days in the city exploring the range of attractions.

Also Read: 3 Days in Nashville Itinerary

The Music City is the best place to visit in America for those who love country music.

It is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, the Bluebird Café, Johnny Cash Museum, and talented country stars.

Explore the famous honky tonk bars on Music Row located on Lower Broadway and 2nd Avenue.

You can explore all of Nashville’s musical attractions on foot or by bike by following the Music Trail.

Other Nashville Attractions

Besides the music venues, Nashville is packed with many other attractions that will make your trip unforgettable.

You can go hiking or biking, shop for boots and hats, kayak down the river, or just enjoy some of Nashville’s famous hot chicken at Hattie B’s or Prince’s.

Admire the Tennessee state capitol, take a history lesson at the Tennessee State Museum, and visit the Parthenon is Centennial Park.

Be sure to check the plenty of shops, bakeries, breweries and distilleries in town while you are there. Search for murals and street art.

After Nashville, you can drive towards Knoxville and the Smokies or visit some nearby attractions if you have the time.

South of Nashville, you will find Lynchburg and Franklin.

Also Read: R omantic and Fun Things to do in Nashville for couples

Optional: Jack Daniels Distillery, Lynchburg

A visit to Lynchburg is a must for any Jack Daniels enthusiast planning a road trip in Tennessee.

Located in the heart of the state, this historic distillery is home to the original recipe.

The distillery offers an interesting tour that educates visitors about how whiskey is made from start to finish.

The tour begins at their history center and moves on to warehouses, aging rooms, bottle lines, and barrels.

After your tour, sample some whiskey from the barrels at the George Green Barrel House and stop by the gift shop for souvenirs.

Optional: Lynchburg

Besides the distillery, there are several other things to do in Lynchburg.

Explore the Moore County Courthouse, Old Jail Museum, and other buildings in the Lynchburg Historic District.

Try the BBQ at Barrel House or Caboose Cafe.

Go hiking at Tims Ford State Park and swim in the Tims Ford Lake.

Lynchburg is located 75 miles south of Nashville and can be reached in 1.5 hours.

Optional: Franklin

Charming Franklin makes a perfect stop on the Tennessee road trip.

It is located just half an hour away from Nashville and can be seen in just half a day.

Franklin was the site for the Battle of Franklin, an important battle in the American Civil War.

The town is a haven for those who love to visit beautiful and historic attractions.

Tour the red brick Carnton House Museum and visit the Carter House State Historic Site, key sites in the Civil War.

Downtown Franklin is famous for its Historic Main Street and is great to take a stroll through charming architecture, eclectic shops, and eateries.

Optional: Natchez Trace Parkway

South of Nashville, you can explore a scenic section of the Natchez Trace Parkway.

The 444 miles long Natchez Trace Parkway runs through Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.

It begins near Franklin and this stretch of road is charming with rolling hills, lots of trees, and wildlife.

You will find attractions such as beautiful bridges, scenic Timberland Park, and gorgeous fall foliage.

After exploring the Nashville area, drive east on I-40 towards Knoxville for the eastern Tennessee road trip.

On the way, you can stop at Lebanon and take a detour towards Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

Optional: Lebanon

Lebanon, located 25 miles east of Nashville, offers plenty of activities.

Enjoy the hiking trails at Cedars of Lebanon State Park and see Fiddlers Grive Historic Village.

Explore the Lebanon History Museum on a self guided tour and see the artifacts about the town’s past.

Optional: Burgess Falls State Park

Just 50 miles from Lebanon, you will find one of the most beautiful state parks in Tennessee.

Burgess Falls State Park is home to Burgess Falls, a waterfall on the Falling Water River.

The cascading waterfall drops 250 feet into a lush, mossy canyon and can be easily seen from the observation deck.

The park is very popular with hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.

We definitely recommend stopping here on your Tennessee road trip.

Optional: Fall Creek Falls State Park

Further south from Burgess Falls, you will find Fall Creek Falls State Park.

This park is home to beautiful waterfalls, several hiking trails, camp sites, and cabins.

Optional: Big South Fork National River Recreation Area

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a scenic area on the Tennessee Kentucky border.

This outdoor paradise features whitewater rapids, hiking trails, swimming holes, limestone bridges, and much more.

The park offers various outdoor activities for people of all ages.

There are campgrounds and rustic cabins to stay in while visiting the park.

Next, visit eastern Tennessee’s famous Smoky mountain region.

The major towns here are Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge.

They make excellent bases to explore the national park during your Tennessee road trip.

Knoxville – 2 Days

Knoxville is a charming small city that has plenty of things to do for everyone from history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts.

Tour the 19th century buildings in the Historic Market Square district or visit the Knoxville Museum of Art.

Take a scenic drive through the many Riverfront Parks where you can enjoy views of the Tennessee River and enjoy walking trails by its banks.

You may also want to visit the World’s Fair Park which is home to the iconic Sunsphere tower and observation deck.

The tower was built for the World’s Fair of 1982 and has panoramic views of the area.

There’s always something cool going on in Knoxville including farmers markets, live music events, and festivals.

Optional – Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is a great place to visit for old-fashioned fun and excitement on your Tennessee road trip.

In Pigeon Forge, you will find plenty of amusement parks, attractions, and shows including Dollywood, Titanic Museum, and Dixie Stampede show.

Gatlinburg – 1 Day

Gatlinburg, a charming town in the Smokies, serves as the gateway to the national park.

In addition to the national park, Gatlinburg has plenty of attractions and activities for all ages. 

The downtown area has plenty of shops, galleries, breweries, distilleries, museums, and restaurants.

Ober Gatlinburg is a mountain-top amusement park with a ski area and gondola rides.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park – 3 Days

Finally, time for the highlight of your Tennessee road trip!

The Great Smoky Mountains National park is our favorite national park to visit in the fall.

The park is home to black bears, elk, wild turkeys, and whitetail deer. Visitors can enjoy nature in the area by camping, picnicking, hiking, and scenic drives.

Following are some of our favorite areas to explore within the Great Smoky Mountains.

Read our 3 Days in Smoky Mountains itinerary here .

Drive the scenic 11 miles long Cades Cove Loop Road to see historic buildings and log cabins built by early settlers as well as a working Grist Mill.

Cades Cove is one of the most popular places to visit and famous for its fall colors.

Clingman’s Dome

Clingman’s Dome is the highest mountain top in the Smoky Mountains.

A short but strenuous trail will take you to an observation tower on its summit. From here, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the gorgeous landscape!

Other attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains national park include Fontana Lake, Abrams Falls Trail, Gregory Bald trail, and Roaring Fork Motor Trail.

After exploring the Smokies, head south towards Chattanooga and southern Tennessee.

Along the way, you can road trip a section of the scenic Cherohala Skyway.

Optional: Cherohala Skyway

The Cherohala Skyway is a scenic byway that connects Tellico Plains in Tennessee with North Carolina.

The winding road passes through the Cherokee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest and is just spectacular.

Be sure to explore the charming mountain town of Tellico Plains while you are there.

Take a stroll around town and explore the Charles Hall Museum.

Hike to waterfalls such as Bald River falls and Baby Falls.

Chattanooga – 2 Days

Chattanooga is a beautiful historic city with a quaint downtown, beautiful bridges, and trendy restaurants.

The Tennessee Aquarium is a fun attraction in Chattanooga where visitors can see dolphin, turtles, and fish.

The city has plenty of outdoor activities for everyone including biking, hiking, kayaking, sailing, and fishing.

Optional: Tennessee River Gorge

The River Gorge is a spectacular sight to see while in Chattanooga.

The gorge with its steep rock cliffs and bluffs was carved in the Cumberland plateau by the Tennessee river.

Visitors can hike across the many trails in the gorge or just sit back and enjoy the scenery from overlooks such as Signal Point.

Visitors can also enjoy many outdoor activities in the area like kayaking or hiking to scenic waterfalls and having a picnic lunch overlooking the gorge.

Lookout Mountain – 1 Day

This beautiful mountain town is located near Chattanooga and makes a great day trip from the city.

It has many fun attractions including Rock City Garden, Ruby Falls, ziplines, as well as historic sites.

Ruby Falls is one of Chattanooga’s top attractions.

At Ruby Falls, visitors can descend into an underground cave to see the spectacular 145 feet tall waterfall.

Seeing the sparkling waterfall drop down into the cavern is an amazing experience and hence, definitely worth adding to your Tennessee road trip.

Rock City Garden

Rock City Garden is located at the top of Rock City Mountain.

This garden is filled with beautiful wildflowers, cacti, as well as large shady trees that will make you feel like you’re walking through a magical forest.

At the end of the trail, you can see the famous view of the Seven States.

Incline Railway

While you can drive the car up the mountain, consider the alternative Incline Railway for an amazing fun adventure.

The Incline Railway is a funicular railway that will take you up the side of Lookout Mountain to an observation deck with spectacular views.

This one-hour round trip journey is well worth it!

Best Time to Visit Tennessee

The best time to plan a Tennessee road trip is in the spring or fall.

Tennessee winters are cold while the summers can get very hot with temperatures often topping out at over 100 degrees!

In spring, you will find colorful wildflowers including azaleas and dogwoods blooming all over the state.

Fall is especially gorgeous with colorful foliage and beautiful weather.

The whole state looks stunning in the fall, undoubtedly, the Smoky Mountains are a highlight of the fall trip!

Also Read: Smoky Mountains Fall Trip: When to go + What to do

We hope you liked our ultimate Tennessee road trip itinerary.

Did we miss out any details or must visit spots? Let us know in the comments.

More Tennessee Destination Guides

We have several other destination guides about the best places to visit in Tennessee such as Nashville, Memphis, Smokies, as well as Gatlinburg.

Check out our related blog posts to plan your Tennessee road trip itinerary.

Best waterfall hikes in the Smokies

Tail of the Dragon Scenic Drive, Tennessee

Atlanta to Smoky Mountains road trip

Explore our favorite road trips in America

Plan your next vacation by going on some of our favorite road trips in the country.

Find road trip planners as well as recommendations for what to see and do, where to stay, etc.

Florida Road Trip Itinerary

California Road Trip

Las Vegas Grand Canyon Road Trip

The Scenic Road Trip That Will Make You Fall In Love With The Beauty Of Nashville All Over Again

Meghan Kraft

Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.

More by this Author

If you are looking for a way to refresh and rejuvenate the way you see Nashville, Tennessee, then there’s nothing quite like spending time in nature. We’ve put together a scenic road trip that will take you from one side of downtown to the next, from parks to scenic viewing points perfect for your enjoyment. There’s nothing quite like an afternoon spent on the banks of the Cumberland River , and we will never get over the beauty of Shelby Park . If you haven’t been, we can help you discover your favorite new-to-me Nashville spots. Take this scenic road trip near Nashville next time you’re feeling adventurous.

You can follow along on our road trip on Google Maps .

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How many of these Nashville spots have you been to? Will you be taking this neat scenic road trip near Nashville sometime soon? We have a feeling you just might find a favorite new spot along the way.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Scenic road trip near nashville.

• Where should I go on a scenic road trip near Nashville? 

If you find yourself wondering if you should go on a scenic road trip near Nashville, just know the answer is definitely yes. When it comes to where you should go on a scenic road trip near Nashville, some ideas include:   

• Head to the amazing Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky  
• Check out the famous Muscle Shoals, Alabama  
• Visit the city of Chattanooga, TN, and learn about its intriguing history  
• Visit the city of Memphis, TN, and learn about its history as well  

Learn more about some of our favorite scenic road trips from Nashville .  

• What are some of the most scenic places near Nashville? 

Nashville – and all of Tennessee, really – is an outrageously beautiful place with plenty to do and see, especially if you’re a fan of the great outdoors. Some of the most iconic, must-do scenic places near Nashville are places like:   

• The Shelby Street Bridge – jaw-dropping views of this beautiful city unlike anything you’ve ever seen before  
• The Ryman Auditorium – maybe not the first place that comes to mind when thinking of “scenic”, but it’s absolutely gorgeous and so is its architecture  
• Centennial Park – an incredibly beautiful, greatly shaded park filled with trees that really showcases how beautiful Music City really is  

Learn more about iconic scenic places in Nashville .    

• Are there any scenic drives near Nashville? 

Absolutely! Now, we might be a little biased and say something like every drive around Nashville is a scenic drive near Nashville, but what we mean by that is that there are so many options you won’t even know where to begin, such as:   

• The Natchez Trace Parkway – literally known for being outrageously beautiful, this epic scenic road passes right through Music City and is absolutely AMAZING  
• Hillsboro Pike and Tyne Boulevard – two drives that are quite close to one another; see stunning, rolling hills and large, old-growth trees on these beautiful drives   

Learn more about scenic drives in Tennessee .    

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The Perfect Tennessee Road Trip Itinerary You Should Steal

August 13, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   1 Comment

A Tennessee road trip might not be the first vacation that comes to mind when you think of exploring the U.S., but why not? Tennessee is full of beautiful, diverse landscapes and lively cities steeped in music and civil rights history. This state is also very centrally located, so if you live in the U.S., it is not too far and can easily and cheaply be flown or driven to, making it a great destination.

If you have chosen to take a road trip to Tennessee, then we are here to help you plan! The Tennessee itinerary we outline here loops you through the state while making sure you hit all the best state parks, museums, and picture-perfect locales. Tennessee is a great state to travel in no matter the season, but if you love autumn, then time your trip so you can see the stunning colors of the trees .

Now, pack your bags , download some of the best road trip apps , and let’s get going!

Save money on your trip to Tennessee! Get a  FREE $55 Airbnb coupon  by using  our code  when you book! 

Start Your Tennessee Road Trip By Flying into Nashville

You will start your Tennessee road trip by flying or driving into the capital, Nashville. Make sure to check Skyscanner to find the best deal for your flight! Located in the north of the state, Nashville makes a great jumping-off point for your road trip of Tennessee. It is full of fun things to do for the whole family and is not far from future stops, so you will not have far to drive to continue the adventure.

Getting Around Tennessee

If you aren’t driving into Tennessee in your own vehicle, you will need to rent a car after you land at the airport. The airport has plenty of rental agencies to choose from, so it will not be hard to find the perfect car for your Tennessee road trip. When picking a car, take into consideration how much room you will need for the number of people traveling and the fuel economy.

Stop 1: Nashville

Nashville is known as the Music City due to its extensive and rich musical history. Country music is especially big here. With streets lined with live music venues and music shops, there will always be a melody to keep you going. To fit everything into your Tennessee itinerary, you may want to stay in Nashville at least two days.

Nashville is a fun city with a variety of activities to fill your time. You can spend your mornings at historic museums and homes. Take time in the afternoon to relax and stroll through one of the city’s pretty parks. At night, hit the bars and dance to live music. No matter what you do, you will make some great memories while enjoying some of the best things to do in Tennessee.

Things to Do

Discover music city.

Head over to Lower Broadway to find the entertainment district of Nashville. Here, you will find a lively street with honky-tonks, themed restaurants, and plenty of shops. Whether you only have one day or a whole weekend in Nashville , this is a must-see!

Make sure to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame as well. You can walk along the neon-bright street in your own group, but if you want to learn more history and make sure to see everything of note, then consider booking a tour.

Book Here:   Nashville: 2-Hour Night Tour of Music City

Check Out the Ryman Auditorium

Named the most iconic structure in Tennessee by Architectural Digest in 2018, the Ryman Auditorium has been standing since 1892. This National Historic Landmark has hosted many performers and musicians through the years, including Charlie Chaplin, Harry Houdini, Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline. The famous Grand Ole Opry show has also been performed here for many years. There are still performances at the Ryman today, so if you have the chance to catch a show, don’t pass it up!

Book Here:  Nashville: Ryman Auditorium Self-Guided Tour

Learn Something New at the Adventure Science Center

If you love science or are traveling with kids, then check out the Adventure Science Center. This interactive and hands-on museum features over 170 exhibits focused on a variety of science disciplines. Don’t forget to stare in awe into space or watch a laser show at the center’s planetarium.

Tour the Jack Daniel’s Distillery

If you are a major fan of Tennessee whiskey or just want to get out of the city for a few hours, you can drive an hour and a half south of Nashville to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Take a guided tour of the distillery with the chance to test taste some whiskey. Interestingly, Jack Daniel’s Distillery was founded in 1866 as the first official distillery in the U.S.

Where to Stay:

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Stop 2: Cummins Falls State Park

For the next stop on this Tennessee road trip, you will leave Nashville and drive about an hour and twenty minutes to Cummins Falls State Park. The main feature of this park is a pretty 75-foot waterfall with a swimming hole at its base. While the waterfall can be viewed from a lookout, the best and most fun way to experience it is to hike through the rocky gorge where it is nestled.

Before you start your hike, you must receive a Gorge Access Permit. Also, be prepared for a relatively strenuous hike along uneven ground with water crossings and climbing rocks as well. There are two starting points for the hike, one is a mile and the other is a mile and a half. It is not recommended that children five and under venture into the gorge. Make sure to wear shoes that are good on slippery surfaces.

The hike is worth it for the sight of the crashing waterfall. Plus, you will be able to cool off in the refreshing swimming hole. Make sure to practice safety as there are no lifeguards.

There is no camping in Cummins Falls State Park, but you can camp in nearby Standing Stone State Park if you want to stay in the great outdoors. Otherwise, you can stay in one of the nearby small towns.

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Stop 3: Burgess Falls State Park

Burgess Falls State Park is only 30 minutes from the last stop and if you start your day early enough, you can visit both state parks on the same day. Alternatively, if you are wanting a more slow-paced, relaxed trip, you can spread it out to two days. Burgess Falls State Park has plenty to do to fill a whole day, especially if you are a nature lover.

The main draws of this Tennessee state park are the four waterfalls found along the Falling Water River. The tallest is Burgess Falls at 136 feet. You can find each waterfall by walking along some of the many hiking trails in the park. The trails vary in difficulty, so there is one for all levels of hikers. The trails are lush with native plants and trees, creating a peaceful natural scenery.

This park is also a Tennessee State Natural Area so there is plenty of wildlife living in the forest waiting to be discovered. The park is a notable place for birdwatching and there is also a Native Butterfly Garden full of pretty wildflowers. If you like fishing, you can find bass in the river. Make sure to pack a picnic and enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables near a playground perfect for those traveling with rowdy kids.

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Burgess Falls State Park and Cummins Falls State Park are close enough that you can stay at the same accommodation for each. This will save you money and the hassle of moving locations.

Stop 4: Fall Creek Falls State Park

Hopefully, you are not tired of gorgeous waterfalls yet because an hour’s drive from the last stop will bring you to another state park known for its tumbling waterfalls. Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of the largest state parks in Tennessee at over 29 thousand acres and is full of fun things to do. Perfect for anyone who really is tired of waterfalls! Though the 256-foot tall Fall Creek Falls is a natural sight worth seeing!

Anyone who enjoys immersing themselves in nature will fall in love with this park and will want to spend all day here. Fall Creek Falls State Park is truly one of the best things to do in Tennessee. You can go hiking, biking, fishing, or birdwatching. You can also rent a boat or canoe in order to get out on the water. There is also an Olympic-sized swimming pool to dive into. When you want to get out of the sun, head to the Nature Center to learn about the environment.

If you are someone who seeks adventure, check out the Canopy Challenge Course made from ropes and nets strung through the trees, complete with a balance beam and zip line. Or you can go rock climbing as well, just make sure to register ahead of time and get a permit. Before you go, make sure to check out the difference between rock climbing and bouldering!

However, if you like to avoid heart-stopping activities, you can relax with a round of golf.

You can stay at the park in the cabins or at the campground. Alternatively, stay at an Airbnb for more privacy and luxury.

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Stop 5: Gatlinburg And Pigeon Forge

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are two cute, mountain towns close together near the edge of the Great Smokey Mountains. You will want to spend two to three days in the area at the very least or even longer to make the most of your time and experience everything. Both cities are packed with outdoor fun, interesting museums, and thrilling amusement parks. As tourist towns, both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have their share of great bars and restaurants, shopping options, and unique attractions as well.

A drive of just under three hours from Fall Creek Falls State Park will bring you to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge , where you will spend the next couple of days on your Tennessee road trip. Get ready for some good, mountain fun!

Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Ride a tram to ober gatlinburg amusement park and ski area.

Take a scenic tram ride from downtown up into the mountains for some fun at Ober Gatlinburg. No matter the season, there is a ton of stuff to do at this amusement park. If you travel in the winter, you can ski, ice skate, or discover the fun of ice bumper cars. In warmer months, it’s all about speed! You can tube or slide down hills, get wet on a water raft ride, or zoom down the ski mountain coaster among other things.

Feel the Thrill of White Water Rafting

If you want to get your heart pumping, why not try white water rafting? Whether you are a first-timer or an expert, you will have a blast rocking through the rapids in this scenic part of Tennessee. There are easy as well as more difficult tours so do not be afraid to take a chance. Just be prepared to get wet!

Drink Some Moonshine

This part of the country is known for moonshine alcohol, so while in Tennesse why not do as the Tennesseans do? This isn’t an activity for kids, of course, but if the adults in your travel party want to learn about how moonshine is made and get to taste it as well, then go to the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery. This is a unique thing to do in Tennessee and shouldn’t be missed.

Things to Do in Pigeon Forge

Visit dollywood.

If you consider yourself a huge fan of country singer Dolly Parton, then you no doubt want to go to Dollywood. This charming park is full of cool attractions, crazy rides, and fun shows for the whole family. You will find the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster and, if you are lucky, you might even see Dolly Parton on one of her visits.

Learn About the Sinking of the Titanic

The Titanic Museum is where you will want to go to learn the history of the famous Titanic and its ultimate sinking. When you walk onboard, it is like walking into the past as a passenger on the doomed ship. Explore the recreated ship and view over 400 artifacts from the real ship. You can even feel water as cold as the ocean that took so many lives.

Book Here:  Pigeon Forge: Titanic Museum Advance Purchase Ticket

Photograph the Old Mill

While in Pigeon Forge, you will want to walk around the quaint Old Mill Square. With the picturesque Old Mill as the centerpiece, there are also a bunch of themed restaurants and shops. This is the perfect place to feel the vibe of the town and maybe pick up some souvenirs.

You can stay in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or anywhere in between. There are plenty of accommodations of varying prices to chose from.

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Stop 6: Great Smokey Mountains National Park

The Great Smokey Mountains are right next to Gatlinburg so it takes no time at all to get there. Wake up early to see the beautiful morning light paint this ancient mountain range with color. If you visit in autumn , the yellow, orange, and red colors are sure to dazzle. You will quickly understand why the Great Smokey Mountains are the most visited National Park in the U.S. with over 12 million people flocking to the park each year. 

See the Park From Your Car

The fastest and easiest way to view the park is from the air-conditioned luxury of your car. Drive along the 384 miles of well-maintained roads to find all the scenic vistas and notable landscapes your heart desires. Of course, there are plenty of places along the way to stop and take pictures.

Take a Scenic Hike

When you get tired of sitting in the car, find one of the many hiking trails the park offers and start exploring. The park’s trails all vary in length and difficulty, so there is something for everyone. Each trail offers amazing mountain and forest views with highlights such as stunning waterfalls and cool rock formations. Make sure to hike safety as well. Never hike alone, bring a current trail map, and check trail conditions before heading out.

Enjoy a Horseback Ride

From March through November, you can join a guided horseback ride in certain areas of the park. This is a fun way to travel through the natural landscape. Kids especially will have a blast! There are rides as short as thirty minutes and as long as two+ hours. Even if you have never been on a horse, you will have no problem riding with everyone else.

Find Wildlife Around Every Corner

With a size of over half a million acres, the Great Smokey Mountains are home to a diverse amount of plants and animals. As you hike or drive along keep a lookout for deer, elk, turtles, turkeys, owls, and coyotes. Also bears! Yes, there are black bears roaming the park as well. While seeing one of these magnificent creatures is amazing, make sure to practice safety. Never approach bears or leave out food for them.

You can camp in the park or head back to your accommodation in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge.

Stop 7: Cades Cove

Cades Cove is part of the Great Smokey Mountains but is notable in what you will find there and is worth mentioning on its own. This pretty valley is about two hours and twenty minutes from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge so, like the rest of the Great Smokey Mountains, it is a good day trip. This is also a good place to go for a more slow, laid back day that is not rush, rush, rush.

The main draw to this area is history and the ability for you to step back in time. European settlers created a home in Cades Cove in the early 1800s. Today, there are historic, restored buildings to explore, including log houses, churches, barns, and a mill.

This is the largest amount of historic buildings in one place within the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. To see it all, get a self-guided tour booklet at the entrance to the loop road, which will lead you around to the best sites. There are also a few hiking trails in the area you can check out. As you travel, you might see deer, bison, or bears.

Stop 8: Chattanooga

Chattanooga is just under three hours south of the Great Smokey Mountains and is a great city to stay in on your Tennessee road trip due to its close proximity to many nature getaways. The city itself is worth exploring as well. Full of art and history museums, a pretty riverfront, and cool architecture, Chattanooga is not short on things to do and see. Once you are done seeing the city, head out to the nearby mountains or river for some fun!

Float Along the Tennessee River Gorge

The Tennessee River flows through town and out into a scenic gorge sometimes referred to as “Tennessee’s Grand Canyon”. This is the perfect place for you to relax and cool off. You can rent one of the many boats, rafts, or tubes available and hit the river. As you float along, watch the pretty landscape go by, including mountains and forests. If you are lucky, you might spot a bald eagle. If you don’t want to relax and would rather get a workout, you can also try some rock climbing in the gorge. There are also hiking trails to enjoy.

Ride Up Lookout Mountain and Discover Ruby Falls

Lookout Mountain is one of the main attractions in Chattanooga and for a good reason. Spend a beautiful hour riding up the mountain in the Incline Railway, one of the oldest of its type in the world. At the top, you will find gorgeous panoramic views of not only Tennessee but Georgia as well since it is near the state’s border. After enjoying the sweeping views, go into the mountain to find Ruby Falls. This 145-foot waterfall is the tallest underground waterfall in the country and is certainly awesome.

Watch Animals at the Tennessee Aquarium

Kids and adults alike will have fun at the Tennessee Aquarium. Found right on the river, this is one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world. There is an assortment of both sea creatures and freshwater fish as well as reptiles, river otters, penguins, butterflies, and more. The aquarium also has an IMAX theater that plays nature films.

Pay Respects at the Chattanooga National Cemetery

The Chattanooga National Cemetery was established in 1863 and holds a lot of history. This is the largest national cemetery in Tennessee and is a great stop for history buffs. Along with grave markers stretching evenly in every direction, you can find three different Civil War battle sites.

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OPTIONAL Stop 9: Natchez Trace State Park

Natchez Trace State Park is a little more than halfway between Chattanooga and Memphis, so it makes a great stopping point for anyone who does not want to drive the full five hours to Memphis in one day. If you don’t mind the relatively long drive, then it can be skipped. However, if you do decide to stop at the park, you will not be disappointed.

Like the other state parks you have been to so far on your road trip of Tennessee, Natchez Trace State Park offers fun in the sun and on the water. You can go swimming, boating, or fishing on one of the few lakes here. There are also trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Real adventurers might enjoy the 40-mile overnight trail.

You can camp in the park or stay in one of the nearby towns.

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Stop 10: Memphis

Memphis is a cool, lively city full of Southern charm known for both civil rights and music history. This is a city you could easily spend days in as you explore and enjoy the many fun things to do. Foodies will love the chance to eat some authentic Cajun and Creole meals. Anyone interested in architecture will want to check out the Victorian Village Historic District or the Pink Palace Museum. Families might enjoy some of the many parks the city has to offer.

If you are looking for some really unique experiences, Memphis has those to offer as well! Hop on an authentic riverboat and tour the Mississippi River. Or you can tour downtown on an old trolley. However you see the city, though, you will be in for a treat!

Explore the National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum is housed in the Lorraine Motel, the site where Martin Luther King Jr. was killed in 1968. Now, this iconic building is a museum dedicated to the struggle for civil rights. It is full of hundreds of artifacts and media that will lead you through civil rights history, beginning with slavery. Though it is a solemn place to visit, it is important to know about this part of American history.

See Where Elvis Lived at Graceland

What would a Tennessee road trip be without visiting the property where Elvis Presley lived from 1957 until he died there in 1977? Elvis bought Graceland when he was only 22 and just starting to gain real fame. This mansion is as opulent as you would expect for the home of the King. With so many fans coming each year, Graceland is the second-most visited house in the United States after the White House. Take a tour here in order to see how Elvis lived and pay respects at his grave.

Walk Along the Famous Beale Street

Beale Street is found in historic downtown Memphis and is known as the “Home of the Blues”. This area is the center of nightlife in the city and has a fun, hip atmosphere.  In the evening, neon lights will paint the scene as you check out the bars, restaurants, music clubs, and specialty shops that line the street. If you visit Memphis in May, make sure to come to the Beale Street Music Festival.

Book Here:  Memphis: 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour

Visit Some Music Museums

Like Nashville, Memphis is a city heavily influenced by music, which is highlighted in many museums in the city. If you are a music history buff, you will want to visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. The Sun Studio is especially popular for anyone who wants to see “The Birthplace of Rock and Roll”. Many famous singers have recorded here, including Johnny Cash, Elvis, and Jerry Lew Lewis.

Book Here:  Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul & Music Hall of Fame Combo

Book Here:  Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History 3-Hour Bus Tour

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Fly Out of Tennessee From Memphis

Once you have spent a few days soaking in everything Memphis has to offer, you will be able to return your rental car and fly home from the Memphis International Airport. If you drove your own car, it is time to turn towards home and start the drive back to your own bed! With a camera full of amazing photos of Tennessee, you probably cannot wait to get home and share your trip with friends and family. They will be jealous of everything you got to see and do!

By the time your Tennessee road trip comes to a close, you will have hopefully fallen in love with this underappreciated state. Tennessee is a wonderful mix of music history, Southern charm, magical waterfalls, and overall natural beauty. The way we wrote this itinerary, you will have the chance to see it all, so do not worry about missing out on anything!

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I-65 from Louisville to Nashville

Heading to Nashville from Louisville? Explore this handy Road Trip Guide.

On your road trip, consider exploring a few of Nashville’s unique neighborhoods, including Opryland/Music Valley, East Nashville, and Germantown. Learn about the state’s history at the (free!) Tennessee State Museum, hit some balls at Topgolf, and enjoy a delicious meal while bowling at Pinewood Social. Music City is ready for you, so what are you waiting for?  Download the map  to print or browse the stops on your mobile device.

• Choose a Road Trip Package including a hotel plus travel kit
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• Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
• East Nashville Neighborhood
• Germantown Neighborhood
• Historic Mansker's Station
• John Seigenthaler Bridge
• Nashville Farmers' Market
• Opryland/Music Valley Neighborhood
• Opry Mills Mall
• Pinewood Social
• SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland
• Tennessee State Museum

Check out our profile nashvilletn on Spotify to listen to our Music City Road Trip Playlist !

Explore other Road Trips into Nashville (back to the main page)

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Madtown Momma

Keeping Mommin' Real in Madison, WI

• Travel & Activities

Road Trip! Your Madison to Nashville Travel Guide

I’ve never been a fan of road trips. At least I don’t think I have. In my mind, I make up stories about how crazy long and boring the drive will be.  Envisioning the sheer horror of a road trip until I convince myself that flying is for sure the better option, regardless of price.

My husband Eric and I have been together for nearly 13 years now. And we have taken exactly one road trip together previously.

That trip wasn’t my doing either. He impulsively bought tickets to a Jack White show at Red Rocks in Colorado. Which took place two months after we got married.

It seemed irresponsible to me at the time, given that we had just dropped a boatload of money gettin’ hitched. Then honeymooned in Jamaica immediately after.  However, my guy is a bit impulsive like that. He just figured we’d drive out there and make it work. Which we did. And it actually wound up being one of my favorite trips we’ve taken together thus far.

Denver was about a 15 hour drive from Madison. Which is totally doable. However, driving will just never be my first choice for getting somewhere.

Especially with a small child.

When we booked our annual Spring Break trip to Florida, my husband suggested driving this year., in order to save some money. Because, as you can imagine, buying plane tickets for three people is much less affordable than two.

I reluctantly agreed, but found the idea of 20 hours in a car with a three year old quite daunting. So, I also set up alerts on Google Flights for every possible flight combination from Madison, Milwaukee, Rockford and Chicago, to anywhere within a 60 mile radius of where we were headed.

Since my son has only ever driven as far as Door County or Minneapolis, we figured we’d get as far as Nashville on Day One and stay somewhere in that area for that night. Effectively breaking our very long drive into two 9 hour segments.

Three days before we were set to hit the road to Daytona Beach, however, my son came down with a fever.

I took him into the doctor’s office right away that morning. Partially to figure out if putting him in a car for 20 hours a few days later was really a good idea.

It turned out that he had strep throat. Which didn’t show up on the rapid strep test, but grew on the 48 hour culture. So, the day we were scheduled to leave, we got a call saying he had strep and needed a 10 day course of antibiotics. Fun.

Given that the forecast in Daytona was looking like mid-60’s and rainy all week, we took that as an additional sign that we needed to pull the plug on driving all the way to Florida.

Lucky for us, my mom was able to very easily cancel our time-share reservation, without any fees. So we figure we’ll try again later this year.

Rather than miss out on a Spring Break entirely, though, we decided to spend a few days in Nashville instead. A city both my husband and I have been wanting to check out for years.

As it turned out, it was a pretty easy drive. Not that I drove at all. My husband did all that. But I found it totally doable. And the kiddo road-tripped like a Champ.

If you and your family are looking to take a trip, here are my tips for road-tripping from Madison to Nashville and back:

Recommended route and pit-stops

You do not have to drive through Chicago to get to Nashville. So that’s a bonus. Because we all know Chicago can be a traffic nightmare.

We left our house around 9:15 a.m. on a Tuesday (at least an hour later than we had originally planned) and hit Interstate 39 S/I-90 E towards Janesville/Rockford.  Past Rockford we exited over on I-51 S towards Bloomington/Normal.

51 took us through Champaign, IL which is where we stopped for lunch. There isn’t a whole lot to see between here and there, aside from a bunch of wind farms and a lot of flat land.

Thanks to this blog post I found when searching for information about driving to Nashville from Madison, we decided to stop at Freddy’s Frozen Custard in Illinois for burgers. Though we chose the Champaign location instead of Mattoon. We had been on the road for about 3 1/2 hours by then, so it was a good point to stop. And was just past our exit to jump on I-57 S towards Memphis.

Freddy’s makes a great “fast food” burger and we all enjoyed their shoestring fries and special “fry sauce”, particularly the jalapeno version. As an added bonus, we each had a frozen custard treat. I opted for the Chocolate Nutter Butter ice cream sandwich, which was a .99 add on to my meal I could eat in the car.

After lunch, we hopped on the Interstate towards Memphis and rode another 3+ hour stretch before our next break. Again, thanks to that Steemit post , I knew to stop in Metropolis, Illinois. Which is the last town before you cross the Illinois/Kentucky border. I wanted to see the giant Superman statue and thought it would be a fun break for the kiddo.

Superman Square in Metropolis was a quick 3 mile detour off the beaten path. Not only did we get a few great pictures with the statue, but the whole downtown area was Superman/Superhero themed. We wandered into the Super Museum and Gift Shop as well. And picked up a few little souvenirs for the kiddo.

I remembered then, what fun these little roadside attractions can be. Which are the quirky things you miss when you fly instead of drive.

After a good 45 minute break in Metropolis, we were back on the road.

Once we crossed into Kentucky, we saw our first exit signs towards Nashville. Interstate 24 took us all the way into the city.

We arrived to our hotel around 7:30 p.m.

There is no time change between here and there, which was helpful. Though we got there right at bedtime. We were all hungry and tired, but also excited to finally be there.

Right after we checked in, Eric placed an online order with Hattie B’s Hot Chicken , which had a location about two blocks away from our hotel.

After about a 25 minute wait, we had a full spread of delicious food in front of us, which included Nashville style “hot” chicken, pimento mac & cheese, greens, baked beans and black eye’d pea salad. We ate in the hotel lobby before turning in for the night.

Where to stay

Since we were both completely unfamiliar with Nashville, we didn’t have a good sense of where to stay. However, we knew we wanted to be close to some of the popular downtown attractions. Without actually staying on Broadway. Because kids.

I poked around quite a bit on Hotwire to get a sense of some of the options prior to booking. They had a map that was zoned by neighborhoods/districts, so it was easy to see where hotels would be in relation to downtown.

While we would have preferred to have a pool, it looked like most hotels with an indoor pool (since it was still early Spring after all) were lower budget chain hotels out by the airport.

So, once I narrowed in on a price point and location, I went with a “Hot Deal”, which is a “you wont’ know where you are staying until after you buy” type of situation.

I selected 3.5 star boutique hotel as our preferred deal, along with the West End/Music Row/Vanderbilt University area, and then let the system choose for us.

We got The Hayes Street Hotel .

The Hayes Street Hotel was a great location, that was a quick drive to several of the sites we visited. There were also several great restaurants within walking distance. And breakfast was included. Which is a bonus when you are feeding a family.

While they offered Valet Parking for $30/night, you could also park on the street directly across the hotel, for free. So, that’s what we did. Since we were there mid-week when the hotel wasn’t as busy, we were able to easily find a spot on the street each night.

For our next visit, I will probably look for a hotel with a suite option, or an AirBnB that might allow us to spread out a bit more. And put the kid to bed without having to turn the TV off and lay down too in order to get him to sleep…Plus, he let us know he missed not having a pool. So, we’d probably book a hotel with a pool next time too.

What to do and where to eat

DAY ONE: After breakfast in our hotel the first morning in Nashville, we headed straight for Centennial Park . The park has a mile long walking/running path on Lake Watuga, a large green space, a nice playground area for kids, and a full size replica of the Parthenon .

There is an art museum inside, which we did not visit. Mainly because there was a large school field trip visiting that day and it seemed a bit crowded. Plus taking a 3 1/2 year old to an art museum is a little risky.

It was absolutely beautiful that morning. Clear blue, sunny skies and a high of 68. Which was most welcome after the 30-40 degree days here in Madison.

After checking out the Parthenon, we took a walk around the lake and then let the kiddo play on the playground for about an hour. We were all just so happy to be outside in the warmth and sunshine!

We didn’t know when we went there that it was part of a neighborhood of shops. So, that was a nice surprise. After we checked out the Pickers store, we walked through the rest of the center, which has lots of small boutiques, a couple of restaurants, a winery, distillery and more. All with a cool, industrial vibe.

Before we left, we stopped in to Grinders Switch Winery to do a tasting of their Tennessee wines and grabbed a bottle to take back to the hotel with us.

From there, we decided it was time for lunch. Since we were close to Broadway, we headed that direction, parked the car, and walked around until we found something that looked decent called Jack’s BBQ . (Turns out it was just that – decent. Nothing special.)

After lunch, we walked down by the Cumberland River, which was quite high after Nashville got pummeled by rain in February. Then decided to head over to Third Man Records since my husband is a big Jack White fan, as noted above.

We poked around the store a bit and met a band outside who was playing in downtown Nashville the next night. Little E even scored a new book from the Little Free Library outside of the store.

From there we drove over to 12 South, the up and coming residential neighborhood with a growing shopping district near Belmont University. Reese Witherspoon’s store Draper James is located there, along with several other cute boutiques and restaurants.

By then we had had a very full day and the kiddo was clearly over-tired. He doesn’t nap anymore. Not even at school. So, we knew he wouldn’t sleep. However, he was in near meltdown mode and obviously needed a break.

We drove back to our hotel and cracked open that bottle of wine we bought, while we kicked our feet up and relaxed in our room for a bit.

Once dinner time rolled around, it was time to finally listen to some of the free live music Nashville is known for. We walked over to The Row Kitchen & Pub , which was less than 5 minutes from our hotel.

The artist we saw that night was Paige Rose , which I really enjoyed. As a singer/songwriter, she played a mix of her own songs, along with popular songs like Black Horse and a Cherry Tree by KT Tunstall and The Middle by Jimmy Eats World.

She invited folks to sing-a-long to the songs they knew. Which much to Eric’s chagrin, I took her up on. Even the kiddo enjoyed it. He was dancing along to the music throughout dinner.

That was a fun way to wrap up our first day in Nashville. From there, we went back to our room to crash. And watched Sweet Home Alabama on Freeform.

DAY TWO: Despite the free hotel breakfast, I knew from other Nashville travel guides that I wanted to eat at the famous Loveless Cafe.  So after we all got going that morning, we drove the 30 minutes outside of town to sample their Southern biscuits and country ham.

Once seated, they brought us a plate full of biscuits and three different types of homemade jam, which were all delicious. Eric got the Country Ham breakfast, which in all honesty was a little salty. I got the Country Breakfast Bowl, which was tasty, though the gravy was a little cold. Little E got a pancake, which is his go-to breakfast out. Pancakes are hard to mess up, so he was happy with that.

After our bellies were full, we pointed our way back towards Nashville. However, there are two State Parks located on Hwy 100 out by The Loveless Cafe – Percy Warner and Edwin Warner . We decided to stop at one of them to get some fresh air and walk off some of our breakfast.

We took a little hike through Percy Warner, which is nice and hilly. It also has specific trails dedicated to people horseback riding through the park.

Because of the hills, Eric wound up carrying Little E on his shoulders most of the time. Which is a feat since the kid weighs about 36 pounds. So, that got old fast and after about 30 minutes on foot, we got in the car and drove back to our hotel.

It was our last day in Nashville, so I didn’t want to spend the afternoon inside. While the boys chilled out in our room, I took a walk down to the Buffalo Exchange near our hotel to do a little shopping.

After a two hour “rest” in the hotel, we piled back in the car and drove out to Opryland, which is about a 20 minute drive from downtown. That’s where the Grand Ole Opry is located, along with the Opry Mills Outlet Mall .

After walking around the mall a bit, we decided to call it a night. We still had to eat though, so landed on Las Palmas , the Mexican restaurant right next door to The Hayes Street Hotel. Which was busy every time we walked by, so figured it must be decent.

It was delicious.

We rate Mexican restaurants almost solely based on their cheese dip. But the carnitas was good, and big enough for me and Eric to share. And the kids quesadilla was also quite good. It did the trick on our final night in Nashville.

DAY THREE: Before we hit the road out of town, we visited the Nashville Farmer’s Market , which was on winter hours and the vendors were limited. It’s a year round indoor market with a large food court. We ate lunch there and then walked around Bicentennial Capital Mall State Park which is right across the street. The park is beautiful and designed to teach you a lot about Tennessee’s history.

It was another beautiful day in Nashville, so it was hard to leave, but by 1:00 p.m. we knew it was time to settle in for another long drive ahead.

The road home

Since we didn’t HAVE to be home at any certain time, we decided to head to my sister-in-law’s in Chicago for a couple of nights instead of driving back to Madison at the end of our visit to Nashville.

Siri recommended a different route to Chicago, taking us through Louisville, Kentucky and Indianapolis, Indiana. However, I could see from the map that there was only an 11 minute difference between that and the route we took get there.

Since we had lucked out with zero construction or accidents on the way to Nashville, we opted to drive back that same way. Rather than risk getting stuck in traffic driving through two major cities on a Friday.

It was a good choice, because we had a similarly smooth drive to Chicago. The only difference in route being that we jumped on I-94 off of I-57 in order to jog over to the City.

It took us a little over 7 hours to get to Chicago. So, as you can see, road tripping to Nashville is actually quite doable. And it was worth the drive in order to explore a new city together as a family and enjoy a few days of warmth and sunshine.

Have you ever been to Nashville? If so, I’m curious to hear what you did! What are your must-sees and food recommendations in the area? Please share in the comments below.

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2 thoughts on “ road trip your madison to nashville travel guide ”.

I’m super bummed there are no other comments. This was a great synopsis of your trip, thank you so much for sharing! I am in the early stages of planning a last minute road trip with my almost 17 y/o daughter to find some warmth and do some good so thinking tornado relief efforts in Nashville are on the list. Anything you wish you had done or heard upon returning to our tundra?

Thanks so much for your comment Melisa! You wouldn’t believe how many spam comments come through the site…most of them get blocked. So, we honestly didn’t really stop anywhere on the way to Chicago on our trip back. The kiddo knocked out for a few hours, so we just kept on driving. I do wish we had gone back the way of Louisville and Indianapolis though. I would have liked to stop to see some of the “World’s Biggest” things in Casey, IL. That seems like it would be a fun detour on the way back! Especially with a teenager: https://www.bigthingssmalltown.com/ Have fun! And please do share if you find some fun sights to see on your road trip!

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23 Best Road Trips from Nashville

Home of bluegrass, bourbon, and biscuits; Nashville doesn't have to try hard to please. This capital of Tennessee and country music has a deep history and a wonderfully alive contemporary culture. Another great thing about the Music City is that it is also centrally located for some remarkable road trips.

On this list of the 23 best road trips from Nashville, you can discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites, find rejuvenation in the Appalachian Mountains, relax on a white sand beach, and see iconic American cities from the heartland to the coasts.

Don't restrain your thirst for adventure any longer; all of Nashville's charms will be there when you get back. Read on below to find a guide to the road trip you've been daydreaming about.

The map below shows our 23 favorite road trip destinations from Nashville. See each route - and skip to the related section of the article - by clicking the star icon.

Best road trips from Nashville

Day trips from Nashville (under 3 hours each way)

1. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

1 hour 30 minutes from Nashville (90 miles)

Why you should visit: Get ready to explore an unparalleled natural wonder and still be able to make it back in time for supper.

As the name suggests, the Mammoth Cave system is massive. Consisting of over 400 miles, it is the longest in the world and contains amazing, cathedral-like, limestone formations.

How to get there: Drive north of Nashville along Interstate 65 (I-65), then take Mammoth Cave Entrance Road in Park City to the caves.

Our highlights: Prepare to get down and dirty on one of the many tours available through the caves. The two-mile long historic tour is a favorite and a great way to learn more about the many generations who have been amazed by these caves.

A tight squeeze awaits you at Fat Man's Misery. Despite the name, most people should be able to navigate the narrow crevices of this popular underground trail.

Explore a bit above ground along the gorgeous Cedar Sink Trail, just south of the Green River. This short trail meanders through an emerald forest into a sinkhole surrounded by limestone cliffs where water descends into the caves below.

In case you want to adventure for more than a day, you can camp in Mammoth Cave National Park. Whether you prefer to rough it in a tent, glamp in a cabin, or stay in the Lodge, there are accommodations to suit everyone's preferences.

Bonus: Mammoth Cave is so unique that UNESCO created the Mammoth Cave Biosphere Region and deemed the area a World Heritage site.

Our travel tips: As you can imagine, summer is the most popular season, so any tours or camping sites should be booked before you visit during the warmer months. The National Park Service recommends booking tickets for popular tours weeks in advance.

2. Huntsville, AL

2 hours from Nashville (110 miles)

Why you should visit: This is one of the few places where that stranger whom you meet at a bar who claims to be a rocket scientist might actually be telling the truth. Housing NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and the US Space and Rocket Center, it's easy to see why Hunstville is called “Rocket City”.

How to get there: Head south on I-65 until Ardmore, near the Alabama border. From there take Alabama Route 53 further south to Hunstville, AL.

Our highlights: It would be silly to come all the way here and not visit the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Hunstville's biggest attraction. It has one of the most comprehensive collections of shuttles and rockets in America, spread out over an area so big they even have scooters for people to see all the exhibits without wearing out their legs.

For more earthly delights, head to the nearby Monte Sano State Park. Rolling hills carpeted with verdant forests interspersed with waterfalls and narrow canyons await your explorations. You can also find a carefully cultivated Japanese Garden here.

For stunning sunsets and a taste of local history, saunter up to Burritt on the Mountain. Situated on 167 acres, this 19th-century mansion built by an eccentric homeopathic doctor is both an educational park as well an event space.

Check their calendar before your visit and try to catch one of their cocktail hours or musical evenings.

Another outdoor gem is the Hunstville Botanical Garden. Spread out over several ecosystems, from forests to wetlands, it is open year-round. During a spring or summer visit you will be greeted by endless blossoms in a picturesque landscape.

Bonus: Despite the futuristic rocket theme that dominates modern Huntsville it is actually Alabama's first Anglophone town which was incorporated in 1811. At places like the beautiful Maple Hill Cemetery and Twickenham Historic District you can get a better sense of the town's deep roots.

3. Jackson, TN

2 hours 10 minutes from Nashville (120 miles)

Why you should visit: Rustic Jackson, TN has a long history as a center of railroad development and is the birthplace of Rockabilly music.

Less well-known than Memphis and Nashville, Jackson can still hold its own when it comes to music and whiskey. There's plenty to fall in love with in this country town.

How to get there: I-40 directly connects Nashville and Jackson. Just head southwest from Nashville, then take US-70 for the last little stretch into Jackson.

Our highlights: At Rusty's TV and Movie Car Museum you'll get your daily dose of childhood nostalgia. Walking through their two warehouses full of over 50 cars and other props actually used in filming classics such as “Ghostbusters”, you'll relive the magic that these movies inspire all over again.

Learn more about Jackson's role in the formation of Rockabilly, where country and rock n' roll mingle, at the Carnegie Legends Museum. This museum has memorabilia from individual musicians as well as telling the story of how the Hard Rock Café was born in Jackson.

Travel back to the romantic era of steam engines and railroad heroes at the Casey Jones Village and Railroad Museum. This historical site tells the tale of a supremely talented and ill-fated 19th-century locomotive engineer, Casey Jones, who was famed in life for his uncanny skills and immortalized after his death at 37 in “The Ballad of Casey Jones.”

Spend a leisurely afternoon at the rustic Century Farm Winery, on the outskirts of Jackson. This friendly and unpretentious winery has a knowledgeable staff and a wide selection. Be sure to try the Blackberry wine, it's one of the best!

If you want to try something really embraces the country lifestyle, head out to the Samuel T Bryant Distillery just off Exit 74 on I-40. From fruit-infused moonshine to expertly distilled whiskey, there's a wide range of spirits to taste and learn about in their spacious, barn-like tasting room. Tours of the distillery are also available.

Just south of Jackson, you'll find Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park. Here 15 Native American burial and ceremonial mounds are preserved, some dating back to 400 A.D. The museum on site is designed to model a mound that you can explore, along with many artefacts found throughout Western Tennessee.

4. Muscle Shoals, AL

2 hours 20 minutes from Nashville (120 miles)

Why you should visit: Surrounded by cotton fields and the heavy heat of the Deep South, this small town has been the creative incubator of some incredible music.

In addition to two iconic studios, FAME and Muscle Shoals Sound, where the likes of Aretha Franklin and Bob Dylan recorded some of their hits, this town has some more understated yet thoroughly enjoyable attractions.

How to get there: From Nashville, drive south on I-65 to US Highway 31 in Spring Hill, which connects to US Highway 43. Take that all the way to Killen, then hop on US-72 across the river to Muscle Shoals.

Our highlights: FAME Recording Studio was opened in the early 1960s by producer Rick Hall. You can still visit the small wood-paneled studio and admire the many original photos and recordings of the dozens of soul and R&B hits that were recorded in this magical space.

In the neighboring town of Sheffield, you can continue your musical time traveling at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, which was founded later in the 60s by several studio musicians who broke away from FAME Studio. Here the Rolling Stones recorded ‘Brown Sugar” in 1969.

Move from a world of sound to the silent world of a familiar face. In Muscle Shoals, you can tour the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller, who broke innumerable boundaries to show a world that doubted her what she really was beyond her perceived disability.

What's a trip down South without some soul food? Try and record your own “Hot Ones” style interview at the Rattlesnake Saloon as you munch on some incredibly spicy wings.

Fans of the great American architect Frank Lloyd Wright will be excited to know that across the river in Florence, the Rosenbaum House is open for visitors. The only house Wright ever built in Alabama, this striking Usonian home was constructed in 1939 and contains many of the features that make his houses instantly recognizable.

Bonus: You can prepare for your trip by watching the 2013 documentary “Muscle Shoals” about the town's two genre-defining recording studios.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips from Nashville (3-5 hours each way)

5. Chattanooga, TN

Via McMinnville and Jasper, TN

3 hours 10 minutes from Nashville (160 miles)

Why you should visit: Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Chattanooga is a premier adventure destination in southeastern Tennessee. Beyond breathtaking views and forest trails, Chattanooga has great food and shopping in the rustic riverside downtown area.

How to get there: Take I-24 east towards Murfreesboro, then hop on US-70 south towards McMinnville. After smelling the roses there, take Tennessee Highways 8 and 28 to Jasper and finally cross the Tennessee River to arrive in Chattanooga.

Our highlights: Two wonderful places to explore on the way are McMinnville, the “Nursery Capital of the World” and perfect for gardening enthusiasts, and Jasper, which has a cute downtown area and is surrounded by climbing spots.

In Chattanooga, start your sightseeing by taking the Incline Railway up to Lookout Mountain. Operating since 1895 and retrofitted with a see-through ceiling, you can enjoy spectacular views all the way up to the top.

Once you get there, be sure to check out the Civil War battle sites which marked a great turning point in the course of the war.

In the land of bourbon, it is quite an accomplishment to be a thriving distillery for over 100 years. The Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery is one of the area's top attractions and is deserving of its stellar reputation. Try a flight and discover your next go-to nightcap.

Raccoon Mountain Caverns is a must-see for adventure seekers who aren't afraid of the dark. These intricate limestone caves were formed over millions of years and boast a cavern so impressive it was deemed the Crystal Palace Room.

If you want to get some thrills above ground, Chattanooga is a mountain biker's paradise. Raccoon Mountain is a popular spot with an extensive trail system, as is Enterprise South Nature Park on the other side of town.

After a day of adventure, wind down with a sunset stroll over the wrought-iron Walnut Street Bridge. It is a pedestrian-only bridge that connects the two sides of Chattanooga. There are plenty of dining options, shops, and viewpoints on either side and along the way.

Bonus: Ruby Falls is the largest underground waterfall in the US. Take a guided tour and learn about its unlikely discovery and all the work that went into making it an accessible and unmissable Chattanooga sight.

Our travel tips: Chattanooga is increasingly known as a fine dining destination, so plan on eating out often to try as many of the great flavors of this scenic town as you can.

There are mountain bike and e-bike rental places around the town, in case you don't feel like hauling around your own cycle.

6. Memphis, TN

Via Jackson, TN and Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge

3 hours 30 minutes from Nashville (220 miles)

Why you should visit: Memphis is a city of soul; from food to music this is a city that knows how to get to the heart of goodness. Famous for influential recording studios and key moments in the Civil Rights Movement, this city has a great balance of fun and historically significant sites to visit.

How to get there: I-40 stretches all the way between Nashville and Memphis on this road trip , down in the southeast corner of Tennessee. Along the way, we suggest stopping in quaint Jackson, TN and Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge if you'd like to make this a multi-city trip.

Our highlights: The Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge is a unique floodplain environment that is great for birdwatching. You can explore the area via the extensive trails or on a kayak as you take a break from the road.

Just outside of Memphis, pay homage to the King at Graceland, a 13-acre complex Elvis Presley purchased to be in a place he loved. You can tour the mansion and learn more about the legend at the Elvis Presley Museum.

When Elvis was just 19, he recorded at Sun Studio in downtown Memphis and the rest is history. You can still tour this small studio where B.B. King and Johnny Cash also recorded.

Follow it by visiting the highly interactive and groovy Stax Museum of American Soul Music where they tell the complete story of how soul music came to be.

Memphis is also home to the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. It has since been transformed into the National Civil Rights Museum and is a must see for those who want to learn more about the long struggle to realize the American Dream for everybody.

To go deeper into the cultural and economic roots of the area, stop by the Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange. This small museum in the renovated Exchange building won't take more than an hour to explore, but it will be worthwhile for anyone interested in this plant that shaped the American economy for centuries.

Bonus: Memphis was named for the ancient Egyptian city and around this American counterpart you can still catch a few nods to their ancient namesake.

There's a free museum of Egyptian artefacts at the University of Memphis and even a 60% scale version of the Pyramid of Giza that was turned into a Bass Pro shop. Here you can still ride a 28-story elevator to the top for incredible views of this river city.

Our travel tips: Get around downtown Memphis via the affordable and adorable vintage trollies.

Be sure to buy tickets for Graceland ahead of time online as it is one of Memphis' most popular attractions.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Nashville to Memphis

7. Tupelo, MS

3 hours 50 minutes from Nashville (220 miles)

Why you should visit: Tupelo is best known as the place where Elvis Presley was born, but it is also the headquarters of the Natchez Trace Parkway. You can find our ultimate guide to Natchez Trace parkway here .

Especially if you've already visited Memphis, where Elvis first made it big, a trip to Tupelo will really complement many of the sights and tidbits about the King's life you picked up there.

How to get there: Take I-65 south until you get to the Highway 64 bypass in Frankewing. Use that to get to Tennessee Route 11, which connects to Alabama Route 64 and leads towards Tuscumbia, AL.

After visiting this charming town, head towards Red Bay on the border with Mississippi and navigate towards Interstate 22 which will take you towards Tupelo.

Our highlights: T he main attraction here is the memorialized birthplace of Elvis, which consists of the small wooden house where he was born and his small childhood church. They've even preserved his outhouse!

Many people feel like they finally get the complete picture of who Elvis was as a whole human being after visiting this site of his humble origins.

You could easily turn a trip to Tupelo into a soul food tasting tour. In the downtown stretch, you'll find several great places where you can sample the delicious cuisine of the area. They all have delicious fare and plenty of flair to make for some memorable meals.

Just to the west of the city, you'll run into part of the 444-mile-long Natchez Trace Parkway , a scenic byway and a popular biking route. In case you're an avid cyclist, this would be a great place for a long, scenic ride as part of a weekend getaway.

Learn more about one of the Native tribes which lived along the historic Natchez Trail at the Chickasaw Village Site towards the northwest part of town. This village consisted of several roundhouses and had been inhabited by the Chickasaw people since the 1500s.

Bonus: In addition to Elvis, Tupelo is also the birthplace of modern electronic musician Thomas Wesley Pentz, better known as Diplo. To catch some of the live music atmosphere in Tupelo, spend an evening at the Nautical Whimsey for one of the acoustic sets after dinner.

8. Gatlinburg, TN

Why you should visit: Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, being situated just outside the national park. As you can imagine, there are ample opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and every sort of adventure. The town itself is incredibly charming and welcoming.

How to get there: Head out on I-40 east for the bulk of the journey until you reach Kodak. From there, start driving south on Tennessee Route 66 to get to Dollywood. Gatlinburg is only 10 miles south of there, along US Highway 321.

Our highlights: Be sure to have a peek at Dollywood, the Southern-themed park jointly operated by the one and only Dolly Parton. It's only a few miles away from Gatlinburg, so you can see it on your way or make a day trip. There's a tram that goes into the park from Pigeon Forge so you can avoid the high parking costs.

Once you arrive in Gatlinburg, you can't help but notice the hazy and picturesque backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While this park is a joy to explore in every season, there's just something about the fall that's filled with magic as the park's many trails and waterfalls are enwreathed by gilded leaves.

If you want to take in the mountain views without leaving town, visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Not only can you enjoy the unobstructed eastern Tennessee scenery on your way up in the open ski lift, but once you get there, you can test your vertigo while walking across the longest pedestrian bridge in the US.

Proud of its country roots, Gatlinburg is a great place to acquaint yourself with some moonshine. There are a few distilleries in town, the two most prominent being Ole Smoky and Sugarlands Distilling Company. So, try a flight and plan on taking a taxi back to the hotel.

Another reason to visit Gatlinburg from Nashville in the fall is the opportunity to do your Christmas shopping at the delightful Village Shops. This shopping center is full of boutique stores featuring local artists and plenty of a particular local delicacy: pancakes!

Bonus: Black bears are a symbol of the Smoky Mountains and the mascot of Gatlinburg. There are an estimated 1,500 bears in the park.

Our travel tips: Regarding those darling bears, be careful when hiking in the spring as mothers emerge from their winter hibernation with new cubs in tow.

In case you make the trip in the winter, there are plenty of places to go sledding, tubing, and even skiing- Gatlinburg has the only ski resort in Tennessee.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg

9. Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

4 hours 40 minutes from Nashville (240 miles)

Why you should visit: From breathtaking mountain vistas to the mesmerizing Gap Cave, and the original trail tread by Daniel Boone, there is a great breadth of attractions at this Historic Park.

This massive park spread over 14,000 acres and three states (Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee) has 85 miles of trails in addition to places central to pioneering American history.

How to get there: Start driving east on I-40 from Nashville until you reach Monterey. From there, follow signs to Jamestown via US-127. Spend some time in this quaint town or continue on to Pickett State Park.

After exploring the park, take the winding Tennessee Route 297 to Oneida then take several routes to Caryville where you'll link up with Tennessee Route 63 which will take you towards Cumberland Gap and the Historic Park.

Our highlights: On your way to Cumberland Gap, spend an evening in one of the adorable wooden cabins at Pickett State Park in northern Tennessee.

It is thought that even before Native Americans forged the gap trail through the wilderness to reach hunting grounds, the route was worn by herds of buffalo seeking natural salt deposits.

Embark on a tour of Hensley Settlement and discover what life was like for the early pioneers in this living history museum on the Kentucky side of the park. There are 45 restored structures and tours are led from May through October by knowledgeable park rangers.

Stand at the tristate point within the park where Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee meet. This is surely much closer to Nashville than the Four Corners.

The Daniel Boone Visitor Center is located in the Virginia section of the park and is surrounded by interpretive signs and metal sculptures. Inside, you can learn about how the American explorer Daniel Boone was hired to widen the existing trail in 1775 to allow for more hopeful settlers to try their luck out west.

Hike through the dense forest to the gap itself, where thousands of pioneers and innumerable Native American hunters and traders before them, made use of this low point along the Cumberland Range of the Appalachian Mountains.

In case you'd like to take in the views, but have mobility restrictions, you can drive up to Pinnacle Overlook from where you can survey all three states. There are also trails if you're up for a steep hike.

10. Covington, GA

4 hours 30 minutes from Nashville (280 miles)

Why you should visit: If you've ever seen a movie that featured a sprawling Southern plantation, it was very likely shot in Covington, which earned it the name of “Film Town”.

Fans of “The Vampire Diaries” will instantly recognize Covington as the real-life Mystic Falls. Even if you've never binged the show, Covington is an idyllic town and a great place to unwind over a weekend.

How to get there: Take I-24 to Chattanooga, then hop onto I-75 south towards Atlanta for the bulk of the drive. From Atlanta, take I-20 to Covington.

Our highlights: Meander through the impressive Covington Historic District along Floyd Street which passes by the charming town square and stately 19th-century courthouse. It is particularly festive around the holidays.

Fans of the resurgent romantic vampire genre will find plenty of places to swoon on one of the several “Vampire Diaries” themed tours around town. Vampire Stalkers is a popular one that is also a great way to see some of the area's notable mansions.

If you'd like a general orientation to Covington and to pick up some tips on top sights in the area, stop by the Covington Visitor's Center which also houses a small museum with some filming memorabilia.

Just north of Covington there's a small town called Oxford. Much like its British namesake, it is home to a university and the Oxford Historic district has many examples of Greek Revival and Gothic Architecture which are included on the U.S. Register of Historic places.

Bonus: Of the 140 movies and television series that have been filmed in Covington, some of the best-known are ‘The Dukes of Hazzard”, “My Cousin Vinny”, and “Selma.”

11. Indianapolis, IN

4 hours 20 minutes from Nashville (290 miles)

Why you should visit: If you've got a need for speed then a trip to Indianapolis, home of the Indy 500, will certainly scratch that itch. Beyond the raceway, Indianapolis, also known as “Indy” is the capital of Indiana with more than a few treats in store for the curious visitor.

How to get there: From Nashville, simply start driving north on I-65 for the whole journey to Indianapolis.

Our highlights: A stop by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is definitely in order. Regardless of whether you're a fan of racing, the extensive collection of custom cars and the tour of the home of the Indy 500 will be a highlight of this trip.

Monument Circle forms the core of the impressive urban center of Indianapolis. The area is full of shops and restaurants and in the middle, you'll find a towering 284-foot limestone monument to “Hoosiers” that fought in various wars.

Another main feature of Indianapolis' cityscape is the White River State Park, the only urban state park in America. This hybrid park along the main waterway contains green spaces, museums, theaters, bike rentals, and even an outdoor concert venue.

Especially if you visit in the warmer months, you'll find yourself spending some thoroughly enjoyable hours here.

One of White River Park's attractions is the Eiteljorg Museum. With an extensive collection of Western Art and Native American artifacts, this well-curated museum has expanded since opening in 1989 to include more genres and is one of the most popular museums in the city.

Another museum to check out is the Indianapolis Museum of Art. It is housed in a beautiful, sprawling estate with manicured gardens; a visit here envelopes you in tranquility and refinement.

Bonus: If you need to wet your whistle, head to the historic bar at the Slippery Noodle Inn, one of the oldest in the state. It might be haunted, so keep an eye out for any ghosts.

12. Parke County, IN

5 hours from Nashville (290 miles)

Why you should visit: On this laid-back trip to the Covered Bridge Capital of the World you'll get your fill of provincial scenery and a fair share of covered bridges.

Road trips are all about a slower pace and discovering places you never knew were out there. A trip to Rockville and Parke County is full of pleasant surprised and will leave you feeling refreshed.

How to get there: Start out driving west on I-24, then hop on to I-169 north near Hopkinsville. Continue on until you reach Evansville, where you will switch to US-41, which will take you the rest of the way to Rockville, IN, the seat of Parke County.

Our highlights: Every October, Parke County celebrates the splendor of fall and its fabulous bridges during the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival. Sometimes as many as two million tourists come to this small county to enjoy the festivities and learn more about the county's 31 covered bridges.

In case you can't come during October, all 31 bridges are still waiting to be explored the rest of the year. Some of the most impressive include the Bridgeton, Neet, Narrows, and McAllister Covered Bridges.

If you just can't resist anything old, ornate, and preferably with a patina, then the many antique shops in Rockville and the surrounding area are calling your name. Nothing's better than finding the perfect piece for your living room mantel while on an unforgettable road trip.

To get some R&R in the great outdoors while on your trip, look no further than Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area. Here you can hike, bike, fish, boat, or just come to hang out with some locals having a barbeque.

Bonus: Legend has it that Rockville was named and chosen as the county seat after some drunk commissioners smashed a whiskey bottle on a rock in 1824. The gorgeous Parke County courthouse in Downtown Rockville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was built between 1879-82.

Our travel tips: The two weeks during October when the Covered Bridge Festival is on is understandably the busiest time of the year, so if you really want to visit during this time, make your bookings very, very early.

13. Atlanta, GA and Lake Lanier, GA

4 hours 40 minutes from Nashville (300 miles)

Why you should visit: A city that is both undeniably hip and green, Atlanta, or “The Big Peach” will captivate anyone who comes within its borders.

It is also known as the “New York of the South” due to its vibrant nightlife and many artistic and economic contributions that have impacted the whole country.

How to get there: From Nashville, drive southeast on I-24 to Chattanooga, just past there, change onto I-75 south to Atlanta. Lake Lanier is located to the north of Atlanta, and you can get there via I-85 and I-985 North towards Buford, GA.

Our highlights: Pick a park, any park. Atlanta is famous for its gorgeous green spaces that are just begging you to spend a leisurely afternoon with a sweet tea. Piedmont Park is the largest and at the center you'll also be able to visit the stunning Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

Atlanta was also the place where Martin Luther King Jr. was born and grew up. You can visit his childhood neighborhood at the MLK Jr. National Historic Park, which stretches over two blocks.

Make sure to also visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights downtown to explore the complex journey to secure full rights for African Americans and the connection to the current movement for Global Human Rights.

Admire the striking architecture in the Fox Theatre Historic District, then catch an evening performance at the theater which was originally constructed by a masonic order in 1929 to resemble a mosque. It's also home to the second-largest theater organ in the country, the Mighty Mo.

The High Museum of Art is a work of art in itself and has been featured in several movies like “Black Panther” and “The Watch”. On the inside, you'll find a stunning and extensive collection with top-notch special exhibits, making this the premier art museum in the South.

See the Atlanta of yesteryear at the Atlanta History Center, which also features the historic Swan House. The Cyclorama is bound to amaze and many people walk away with a new appreciation of the country's early struggles after seeing the Civil War exhibit.

If you proudly identify as a freak or just can't resist some vintage thrifting, the Little Five Points neighborhood is a must-see on your Atlanta trip. Anchored around the Junkman's Daughter emporium, this off-beat enclave is the epicenter of Atlanta's alternative culture.

Bonus: In 1886 in Atlanta, back before cocaine was a controlled drug, Dr John Pemberton, a chemist, used coca leaves and kola nuts in a “temperance drink” to remove headaches and pep people up. Boy did it work! At the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta you can learn more about the humble roots of this global beverage behemoth.

Our travel tips: Prepare to sweat on a summer visit, but don't let that deter you! There are a lot of bodies of waters nearby to have a carefree day splashing about like a local. To the north is Lake Lanier and to the west is the Chattahoochee River.

14. St Louis, MO

4 hours 40 minutes from Nashville (310 miles)

Why you should visit: St Louis, or the STL as locals know it, is a fun-filled Southern town that offers great food, sights, and music in abundance.

This riverside city is the “Gateway to the West,” where adventurers such as Lewis and Clarke prepared for their journey that would redefine American boundaries and the birthplace of musicians like Miles Davis who redefined American music.

How to get there: From Nashville, hop on I-24 westbound, then take I-57 north towards Mt. Vernon. There, you'll change onto I-64 which will take you into St Louis.

Our highlights: The icon not only of St Louis but of a westward expansion that has been put into more sober perspective recently, the Gateway Arch is still a modern marvel worth seeing.

Located at the site of the founding of St Louis, it is both a National Park as well as a National Historic Landmark. There are trams to an observation deck near the top of the arch with spectacular views.

St Louis loves baseball and nowhere is this more apparent than at Busch Stadium, home of the Cardinals. This stadium is uniquely open and unfolds into a plaza with bars, and restaurants, all enveloped in that unmissable crimson.

For an exquisite example of urban green space, head to St Louis' Forest Park, popular with locals and tourists alike. Originally developed for the 1904 World's Fair and Olympics, the park has many architectural treats in addition to a free zoo and art museum.

For a truly whimsical and historical experience in St Louis, spend an afternoon at the Missouri Botanical Garden. In addition to its well-known dome, there is also an immaculately kept hedge maze and sites of historical significance in connection with its 1859 founding by Henry Shaw.

If you're young at heart and have a soft spot for the zany, be sure to squeeze in a visit to the City Museum. Spread overall several stories in a downtown building, there are winding staircases and slides between the museum's eclectic exhibits.

Bonus: It is rumored that people in St Louis consume more BBQ sauce per capita than anywhere else in America. This should be a hint to try as many barbeque joints as you can while you're here.

Our travel tips: Given the Cardinals' regional popularity, hotel rates downtown tend to spike whenever they have a home game. So, whether you're planning to see them or not, check their schedule online while planning your trip.

Long weekend trips from Nashville (5-8 hours each way)

15. Columbus, OH

5 hours 50 minutes from Nashville (380 miles)

Why you should visit: While some Midwestern cities are struggling to hide their rust, Columbus is thoroughly fresh, hip, and ever-ready to innovate. This is a place that has tons of sightseeing to do during the day and opportunities to live it up with the locals at night.

With a world-class science center, vibrant arts scene, beautiful Capitol building, and historic neighborhoods built by early waves of German immigrants, you're sure to enjoy your time in Columbus no matter what floats your boat.

How to get there: Make your way north on Interstate 65, which runs through Elizabethtown, KY and on to Louisville, where you'll switch to Interstate 71 North. This will take you the rest of the way to Columbus.

Our highlights: On your way, spend an hour or so visiting Elizabethtown, KY. This is the place where Lincoln was born and where Fort Knox and several other places of importance to the Civil War are located.

Whether you're visiting Columbus on a fresh spring morning, sultry summer afternoon, or crisp fall day, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens will provide respite from a bustling world. Well-maintained and informative, the gardens also feature a wonderful array of Chihuly glass sculptures.

Home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and regularly featuring Broadway plays, the historic 1928 Ohio Theater is worth a visit even if you don't catch a performance. Its ornate interior was fully restored in the 70s after passionate residents saved it from demolition in 1969.

Developed in the mid-18th century, the German Village located just next to downtown Columbus feels a world away. It has been scrupulously maintained as a distinct and wonderfully walkable neighborhood with too many places to stop and enjoy pastries, sausages, and of course expertly crafted beer.

The Short North district, nestled between downtown and the university, is at the very heart of Columbus' revitalization. Come here to feel the buzz, see some stimulating art, and shop for unique gifts while supporting local artisans. There are also great restaurants and venues perfect for a date night in the middle of your trip.

Bonus: At the Ohio Historical Center you can see a preserved two-headed calf that was born in the area in 1941.

Our travel tips: Another great attraction in Columbus is the Art Museum, which is free on Sundays.

Columbus is a multicultural city and there are several great festivals throughout the year, like the Ohio Black Expo, Dublin Irish Festival, and Columbus Asian Festival. If you'd like to participate in some counterculture, come to the Doo Dah Parade, held on the 4th of July.

16. Blowing Rock, NC and Blue Ridge Parkway

6 hours 50 minutes from Nashville (390 miles)

Why you should visit: Blowing Rock is enveloped in fresh alpine air and that small-town hospitality, making it a fantastic destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This trip also takes you along the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway for the last stretch of the journey.

Named for a rocky outcrop 4,000 feet above sea level, you can expect an abundance of sweeping vistas on this trip.

How to get there: From Nashville, head east towards Knoxville on I-40 and continue on to Asheville, NC. Once you get to Old Fort, NC, hop on US-70, which will take you to Lake Tahoma Rd/NC Highway 80, which connects to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Follow "America's favorite drive" to reach Blowing Rock.

Our highlights: Well, you can't visit Blowing Rock without visiting the eponymous rock itself. Though once you arrive after an easy hike, you'll realize that the views over rolling hills carpeted in forest all the way to Grandfather Mountain steal the show.

A truly multifaceted treat in the area is the Moses Cone Memorial Park, formed out of the estate of a turn-of-the-century textile baron. There's a massive Colonial Revival mansion, 25 miles of carriage trails that you can explore by foot or in a horse-drawn carriage, several man-made lakes, and it houses the Southern Highland Craft Guild who give frequent demonstrations on the porch.

Enjoy a cold brew, hearty fare, and excellent company at the Blowing Rock Brewery. Occasionally you can catch a live gig on the patio and their pretzels are always to die for.

There are literal treasures in the Blue Rock Mountains and gem mining in the area goes back hundreds of years. A great place to see some sparkling stones and learn about the historical geography of the area is Doc's Rocks Gem Mine. Be sure to check out their impressive fossil museum.

Take a day to simply take it all in. Blowing Rock is surrounded by forests and trails that you can wander. Why not find a perfect picnic spot in the woods to take in all the natural beauty?

Bonus: Blowing Rock is one of the oldest tourist towns in North Carolina. Most of the development, such as paved roads, all came about in the late 19th century due to the influx of tourists. Luckily it hasn't been overbuilt in all that time and it still has its country charm!

Our travel tips: This route takes you through Knoxville, TN and a wonderful NC town called Little Switzerland. If you'd like to break the trip up, these are two great places to spend a night.

Blowing Rock is surrounded by white rhododendrons, also known as a Rosebay. To catch the peak of the blooming season, visit in late June or early July.

17. Hot Springs, AR

6 hours 40 minutes from Nashville (420 miles)

Why you should visit: As you might have guessed, the main draw of this town is its abundance of hot springs. They have been bringing people to this otherwise remote part of Arkansas since the early 1800s.

In our humble opinion, this is one of the coolest places in Arkansas. Not only can you enjoy these rejuvenating waters, but there's tons of natural beauty around and a whole street of perfectly preserved antique bath houses.

How to get there: Start heading west on Interstate 40 from Nashville until you get to Little Rock. From there head towards Benton, AK on Interstate 30 west which will connect to US Route 70, which will take you into Hot Springs. To get to Lake Ouachita, take Arkansas Route 227 which heads northwest out of town, for 15 miles.

Our highlights: Spend a day exploring the many trails and natural springs of Hot Springs National Park. Originally established as a Federal Preserve in 1832, the springs and the surrounding area have been kept in their pristine conditions.

While there's nowhere to soak in the 147 degrees Fahrenheit water outdoors, you can still experience the springs in their natural glory; watch the springs emerging from the hillside at the Display Spring and Hot Water Cascade.

Prepare to go back in time as you walk along Bathhouse Row downtown, which is also a national park. These exquisite buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries are unique architectural monuments. Two of them, Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Bathhouse, are still open so you experience a luxurious spa day on your trip.

Along the row, be sure to step into Fordyce Bathhouse, which now operates as a visitor center where you can get a better understanding of how such remote hot springs were carefully developed into a gorgeous spa town.

The Garvan Woodland Gardens is not only a beautiful labor of love but a hopeful testament to woodland regeneration following clear-cutting.

Consisting of 210 acres planted over 40 years by Verna Cook Garvan, this path-filled woodland and botanical garden is currently looked after by the University of Arkansas and open to visitors between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Before you head back home, make the short drive out to Lake Ouachita, the largest lake in Arkansas. There are easy to moderate trails all around the lake and you can even take a boat tour to appreciate it from a different perspective.

Bonus: There are 47 thermal springs in the greater Hot Springs area, and it is the only park in the entire National Park System which is required to let the public partake of its unaltered natural resource.

There are plenty of spouts and fountains around town, so be sure to bring a few jugs along to fill and take home.

Our travel tips: There are a few prominent art and music festivals throughout the year here, like the Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival and the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, in case you'd like to visit when the small town is filled with excitement.

The nicest times to visit are in the spring and fall, to avoid the sweltering temperatures and tourist rush during the summer.

Longer trips from Nashville (Over 8 hours each way)

18. Natchez, MS

9 hours 20 minutes from Nashville (460 miles)

Why you should visit: Well known for the abundance of antebellum mansions and historical charm, Natchez is the oldest town on the Mississippi River.

Of course, this is a great trip for history lovers, but the way to Natchez is strikingly beautiful and the outdoorsy types can enjoy numerous state parks and trails on the way. Even high rollers can have their fun on the Lady Luck riverboat casino docked in Natchez.

How to get there: Take Tennessee Highway 100 south of Nashville to find the terminus of the Natchez Trace Parkway, marked by milepost 444, and from here you can begin your journey through ample green spaces and roadside attractions the 444 remaining miles to Natchez.

Our highlights: On your way into Natchez, you can see one of the oldest structures in Mississippi, Mount Locus. Built in 1780, this site was at one point an inn, then a plantation. The building is open to visitors from Thursday through Sunday and has a regular schedule of interpretive tours.

One of the most impressive offerings in Natchez is Stanton Hall, a painstakingly maintained, 14,000-square-foot Antebellum Classical Revival mansion.

Surrounded by fuchsia rhododendrons and filled with antiques that were as rare in their own time as they are today, a guided tour can give you deeper insights into the historical background and unique features of this impressive estate.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live inside an octagon? Even if you haven't, Longwood, the unfinished 1860 mansion of a plantation owner, is an interesting example of this ambitious architectural style.

In addition to the aesthetic features, which also led to it being chosen as a filming location for “True Blood”, this house is also a piece of tangible history which was left unfinished due to the outbreak of the Civil War.

Time seems to move just a bit slower down south. Ease into the relaxed pace here and stroll along the well-maintained paths of Bluff Park where you can take in the sweeping views of the Mississippi River. There are also interpretive plaques along the way which tell more about this historic port town.

Learn more about the people who built the eye-catching mansions in Natchez and formed the backbone of the local economy dating back to when the area was under French control at the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture.

Bonus: The modern Natchez Trace Parkway follows a route through the wilderness that had been used by Native Americans for over 10,000 years before being developed into a road after President Jefferson's authorization.

There are six ancient mounds along the route, including two neat Natchez, as well as a small wooden inn where the explorer Meriwether Lewis likely took his own life.

Our travel tips: The route we've laid out follows the Natchez Trace Parkway between Nashville and Natchez. If you'd like to shorten the driving time, stick to the Interstates between Nashville, Memphis, and Jackson.

Because this is a scenic parkway, you won't readily see gas stations or towns from the road itself, but behind the greenery, there are tons of cute towns to explore and refuel at.

19. Destin, FL and Gulf Shores, AL

9 hours from Nashville (530 miles)

Why you should visit: Sparkling white sand as far as the eye can see will meet you at both these fun-in-the-sun destinations. Grab your shades and get ready to embrace the summer!

In addition to pristine beaches and the warm, azure waters of the Emerald Coast, you can cycle, kick it in a cabana, and try to spot some wildlife on this trip.

How to get there: Drive south on I-65 past Birmingham, AL all the way to Georgiana, AL. Here you'll take a series of smaller highways towards Florala near the Florida border, then take Florida Highways 2, 285, and 293 all the way south to Destin.

Gulf Shores is 80 miles west of Destin; start out on US Route 98 west, head across the Pensacola bridge and keep along the coastal roads until you reach Gulf Shores.

Our highlights: After all that driving, you'd better get straight to a seaside happy hour. Head no further than Destin Harbor, which contains a long stretch of bars, restaurants, and entertaining attractions.

Once you're rested and ready for full beach mode, Henderson Beach State Park in Destin will be calling your name. There's also plenty of space to spread out your beach towel or even make an epic piece of seashell art in the sand. Snorkeling is another popular activity in these crystal-clear waters.

No matter how you like to enjoy the beach-splashing in the waves, reading a novel with the sand between your toes, or by enjoying a sunset walk that never seems to end, Gulf State Park, Alabama welcomes all kinds of beachgoers with sugar-like sand and the crashing waves.

There are also 28 miles of paved trails in case you're up for a shoreline hike or cycle.

When you're out fishing, you never know what you're going to catch, and when you fish on a pier, you never know what kind of colorful characters you could meet. Whether you're out to catch dinner or just get those steps in with an ocean view, you'll have a wonderful time at the Gulf State Park Pier.

Bonus: Destin is a great place to spot some Dolphins. There are at least two species you can see, the Atlantic spotted dolphin and the more common bottlenose dolphin.

From the land, a great place to try and spot these aquatic cuties is the Okaloosa Island Pier. Alternatively, you can climb aboard a pontoon boat for a morning of marine life watching.

Our travel tips: You can also see dolphins frolicking across the horizon from the upper floors of the high-rise hotels along the Destin shores.

There are six different species of jellyfish that live in the waters near Destin and Gulf Shore, including ones that can pack a powerful sting like the Man of War. There seem to be higher numbers of jellyfish from mid-July to when the weather cools off in the fall

20. New Orleans, LA

8 hours 10 minutes from Nashville (550 miles)

Why you should visit: Beyond the revelry of Mardi Gras, New Orleans is a simmering cultural hotspot where Cajun and Creole combine to make one of the most enjoyable and vibrant cities in America.

Whether you'd like to wander the French Quarter, catch an exhilarating jazz performance, try to spot a ghost, or simply eat your way through the city, there are oh too many ways to enjoy your time here and on a road trip from Nashville to New Orleans .

How to get there: From Nashville, start going south on I-65 to Birmingham, AL. From there take I-20 to Meridian, then I-59 to Slidell, where you'll hop on Interstate 10 for the last few miles into New Orleans.

Our highlights: If you've come to NOLA for the music, you won't want to miss an evening on trendy Frenchmen Street. There are dozens of bars and venues along this two-block stretch that is more toned down than Bourbon Street, but by not much. For starters, check out The Maison and Three Muses.

To see the intersection of music and history in New Orleans, head to Preservation Hall at the outskirts of the French Quarter. Being the oldest jazz venue in NOLA with live music 350 nights a year, this rustic venue is for the diehard fans of jazz.

What is it about wrought iron that just screams whimsy? There are literally tons of this ornate metalwork around the quiet Garden District, which was primarily developed between the mid-19th century and WWI.

This neighborhood is also home to St Louis Cemetery No. 1, the oldest in New Orleans, which features many elaborate, above-ground tombs and the occasional haunting.

It would be a shame to come to New Orleans without spending at least a little time in the French Quarter, even if crowds aren't your thing. This vibrant district dates back to the early 18th century.

This beating heart of the city is centered around the iconic Jackson Square and St Louis Cathedral. Here you can watch local performers and knock back a few beignets.

Many casual visitors to New Orleans might not know that it is also home to America's official World War II Museum. This extensive museum is expertly curated and is an affiliate of the Smithsonian.

Bonus: Gumbo is a southern Louisiana delicacy with West African roots, getting its name from “ki ngombo”. For a fancier take on the dish head to one of the famous restaurants in the city.

Our travel tips: Of course, this city is completely transformed around Mardi Gras in the early spring, so if you are weary of high prices, crowds, and beads, plan your trip any other time.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Nashville to New Orleans

21. Savannah, GA

10 hours 30 minutes from Nashville (620 miles)

Why you should visit: Come wander tree-lined streets, where Spanish moss hangs as if frozen in time in Georgia's oldest city. With oodles of colonial architecture, southern comfort food, and welcoming locals, walking around this riverside city is an absolute delight.

How to get there: From Nashville, take I-40 to Knoxville. From there, head towards Gatlinburg and the winding US-441 to tour the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This road reconnects with I-40 and heads towards Asheville.

Once you've spent at least a day here, head south from Asheville on I-26, passing Columbia, until you come to the I-95 junction. Take I-95 south all the way to the outskirts of Savannah, then follow signs into town.

Our highlights: Take a tour of the historic downtown Savannah, where Neoclassical civic buildings mingle with Georgian and Gothic Revival homes.

This area is also home to Georgia's oldest Catholic Church, the majestic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Interspersed are tree-filled squares where the sweet aroma of magnolia blossoms lingers.

In the southern Historic District, you'll find Forsyth Park, a sprawling, 30-acre, urban green space. Filled with paths, historic statues and plaques, the centerpiece of the park is an utterly photogenic 150-year-old fountain.

On the other side of the Historic District, to the north, you'll find the cobblestone River Street along the Savannah River. There are street performers, souvenir shops, a bevvy of bars and restaurants, making this a lively spot to kick back in the evening after a day of historical tours.

Bonaventure Cemetery, one of America's oldest and most prominent cemeteries, is both historic and hauntingly beautiful. If you'd like to make a more intimate acquaintance with the residents of old interred here, you can take a guided tour.

To go all the way back to the early 18th-century origins of Savannah, visit the Wormsloe Historic Site. This is where you'll find that iconic oak-lined avenue for the perfect road trip pic.

At the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters learn about the complex relationships of master and slave beyond all the grandeur and obvious wealth that once flowed through the city. This is a wonderfully preserved house and garden which offers self-guided audio tours.

Bonus: The oldest African American Church in America is located in the north Historic District. The First African Baptist Church was established in 1777 and later served as a safe house along the underground railroad. The church is open the visitors and offers guided tours.

Our travel tips: As you make your way to Savannah, you'll pass through some gorgeous places that are worth a peek. Any outdoor enthusiast can't help but love the Great Smokey Mountains and Asheville is an artsy mountain town with charm to spare.

22. Yellowstone National Park, WY

25 hours from Nashville (1,640 miles)

Why you should visit: The environment of Yellowstone is so incredible that it inspired Congress to deem it the first national park in America, and the whole world, starting a trend of preservation with global impacts.

Thermal springs, rugged mountains, and thundering falls are only a few of the natural wonders on full display in this extensive park that is perfect for adventure any time of the year .

How to get there: Start out on I-24 west towards St Louis, then find the scenic Missouri Route 36 towards St. Joseph, MO. From there, hop on I-29 north to Nebraska City, where you'll again start going west towards Lincoln, NE.

Navigate to I-80, which you'll stay on for 270 miles, then change onto US-26 in Ogallala, NE. Take that all the way to Moran, WY, where you'll finally get on US-191 for the final stretch into Yellowstone.

Our highlights: The most famous feature of Yellowstone is undoubtedly Old Faithful. This thermal geyser erupts every 1-2 hours and has been wowing visitors to Yellowstone for hundreds of years.

If you are a bit more intrepid and would like to see a less crowded backcountry geyser, try the 8.5-mile hike out to the Shoshone Geyser Basin.

Where there are mountains, there are valleys and Yellowstone has some striking ones. On an early morning trip to Lamar Valley, you can see the park's most magnificent wildlife, such as buffaloes, elk, wolves, and eagles, just going about their daily lives. A pair of binoculars would be really handy to get the most out of a trip here.

Dramatic waterfalls can be found in the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River, where rushing water plunges 300 feet from the rocky cliff. A less crowded alternative is Fairy Falls, which can be reached after a short hike over flat terrain.

No trip to Yellowstone would be complete without seeing at least one of the thermal springs. By far the most striking is the aptly named Grand Prismatic Spring. Here vibrant tones of aquamarine contrast with yellow and rust-colored hues as steam rises up from pools which can get as hot as 188 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bonus: Yellowstone is home to 1,800 archaeological sites. You can learn more about the area's pre-history and geological history at the Museum of the Yellowstone near the park's west entrance.

Our travel tips: To skip the crowds and increase your chance of viewing wildlife, aim to visit during the shoulder season months of April, September, and October.

Any campsite in one of the park's 12 campgrounds must be reserved in advance on the National Park Service website. Only Mammoth Campground is open year-round.

Most of the park roads close in winter, though the park remains open, and you can go on guided snowshoe and snowmobile tours.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Nashville to Yellowstone National Park

23. Los Angeles, CA

29 hours from Nashville (2,000 miles)

Why you should visit: What could be more exciting than a trip from Nashville to sunny Los Angeles and Hollywood , where stars are born?

In addition to the magic of studios and celebrity spotting, LA also has amazing food and world-class art museums. You can top off every day by taking in the sunset over the Pacific Ocean beachside or in a trendy rooftop bar.

How to get there: For such a massive trip, the route is surprisingly simple: head due west on Interstate 40 for 2,000 miles to Los Angeles.

Our highlights: Through an iconic gate you'll find exhilarating rides and the chance to tour operational filming locations at Universal Studios. This is one of LA's most popular attractions with themed rollercoasters like Jurassic World and daily performances around the sprawling amusement park.

Santa Monica is a town in west Los Angeles that is home to some of the area's most iconic beaches, including Muscle Beach, and the buzzing Santa Monica Pier. A night here under the neon lights, passing by carnival games and roller coasters will make you feel like you're back in high school on a sneak away date by the beach.

How about a little natural history? Los Angeles is a major oil-producing region and this was actually one of the area's earliest industries.

Along with plenty of oil, America's largest tar pit is also located in LA. At the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, you can learn about the early uses of tar and the 3.5 million Ice Age fossils that have been found here.

For fashionistas, a must-see stop will be Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. This road is studded with every major designer you can think of with thousands of dollars of opulent handbags, shoes, clothes, and sunglasses on display. This is the palm-tree lined street that really makes you feel like you're in LA.

A little north of downtown LA, perched on a hill, is the sprawling Getty Center. Replete with classical Greek and Roman sculptures, this art museum, estate, and gardens was developed from the home and private collection of J.P. Getty, one of America's early billionaires.

On the other end of the artistic spectrum, contemporary art lovers can revel in the excellent selection of modern art on display at The Broad, back in downtown LA. Their collection of over 2,000 pieces is housed in a fluid building that announces the boldness of many of the works within. We think the Infinity Mirror Room is especially cool.

Bonus: The film industry in LA began because of intellectual property disputes! At the time, Thomas Edison owned most of the patents for filmmaking equipment and could keep a closer eye on East Coast activities from his New Jersey home.

Hence Nestor Studio moved to Los Angeles in 1911 and built Hollywood's first filming stage to save on production costs. While the original building was demolished, Columbia Square facility stands on the site today.

Our travel tips: L.A. is a sprawling patchwork of smaller cities and there is horrific traffic around the commuting hours. Plan to stay close to the sites you most want to visit and leave lots of time to get to any show times or fixed appointments.

When there isn't gridlocked traffic, Los Angelenos like to drive fast. While the speed limit might proclaim to be 65 miles per hour, the average flow of vehicles is closer to 80. If you want to drive like a granny, stick to service streets.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Nashville to Los Angeles

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40 Best Stops Between Minneapolis and Nashville

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How long is the drive from Minneapolis to Nashville?

The direct drive from Minneapolis to Nashville is 884 mi (1,423 km) , and should have a drive time of 13 hrs 17 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Minneapolis to Nashville, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Milwaukee , Wisconsin Dells , Springfield , Madison , Paducah , Lake Geneva , Evansville , La Crosse , Rockford , and Baraboo , as well as top places to visit like Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park Resort and Noah's Ark Waterpark, or the ever-popular Grandad Bluff.

Top cities between Minneapolis and Nashville

Wisconsin dells.

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Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Lake Geneva

• Springfield

Best stops along Minneapolis to Nashville drive

Grandad bluff.

Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park Resort

Noah's ark waterpark, devil's lake state park, the house on the rock, cave of the mounds, henry vilas zoo.

Wisconsin State Capitol

Olbrich botanical gardens, new glarus brewing company, fireside dinner theatre, holy hill - basilica and national shrine of mary help of christians, anderson japanese gardens, american family field, harley-davidson museum.

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Milwaukee Art Museum

Lake geneva shore path, tristan crist magic theatre, volo museum, six flags great america, woodfield mall, starved rock state park, paramount theatre, the morton arboretum, harrah's joliet.

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Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site

Lincoln monument association, abraham lincoln presidential library and museum, lincoln home national historic site.

Dream Car Museum

Top searches in nashville, other popular road trips from minneapolis, explore nearby places.

• Whites Creek
• Old Hickory
• Goodlettsville
• Hendersonville
• Mount Juliet
• Nolensville
• Ashland City
• Kingston Springs
• Pleasant View
• White House
• Leiper's Fork
• White Bluff
• College Grove
• Thompson s Station
• Cross Plains

All related maps of Nashville

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Nashville throughout the year

• Nashville in January
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• Nashville in June
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Nashville?

Get inspired for your trip to Nashville with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Nashville Itinerary
• 2-Day Nashville Itinerary
• 3-Day Nashville Itinerary
• 4-Day Nashville Itinerary
• 5-Day Nashville Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from minneapolis to nashville.

Yes! You can drive from Minneapolis to Nashville.

How far is Nashville from Minneapolis by car?

The drive from Minneapolis to Nashville is 884 miles (1,423 km).

How long does it take to drive from Minneapolis to Nashville?

Driving from Minneapolis to Nashville should take you 13 hrs 17 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Minneapolis to Nashville?

Gas from Minneapolis to Nashville would cost around $78 to $181 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Minneapolis to Nashville?

You could check out Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park Resort and Noah's Ark Waterpark, or the always popular Grandad Bluff!

What are the best cities to visit between Minneapolis and Nashville?

People love visiting Milwaukee, Wisconsin Dells, and Springfield, among others.

What's the weather like in Minneapolis?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Minneapolis in January
• Weather in Minneapolis in February
• Weather in Minneapolis in March
• Weather in Minneapolis in April
• Weather in Minneapolis in May
• Weather in Minneapolis in June
• Weather in Minneapolis in July
• Weather in Minneapolis in August
• Weather in Minneapolis in September
• Weather in Minneapolis in October
• Weather in Minneapolis in November
• Weather in Minneapolis in December

What are some other road trips from Minneapolis?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Minneapolis.

• Minneapolis to New York City drive
• Minneapolis to Chicago drive
• Minneapolis to Orlando drive
• Minneapolis to Las Vegas drive
• Minneapolis to Washington DC drive
• Minneapolis to Toronto drive
• Minneapolis to New Orleans drive
• Minneapolis to Nashville drive
• Minneapolis to Niagara Falls drive
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Road Trip Across Tennessee – Scenic Trails & Byways

These 16 self-guided motor routes in Tennessee will take you off the beaten path and through all of the state’s 95 counties.

These 16 self-guided scenic drives will take you off the beaten path and through all of the state’s 95 counties. So, gas up the car and hit the scenic route. Follow the brown signs; they showcase the Discover Tennessee Trails & Byways, making them a little easier to find. These trails feature attractions, restaurants and other places worth a stop as you’re driving across the state. Let us be your road trip planner with these scenic routes below. And, find even more ideas on planning your drive along these roads less traveled.

West Tennessee Scenic Trails & Byways

Cotton junction trail.

Take a Tennessee road trip through the West Tennessee Delta, stopping to explore the West Tennessee Agricultural Museum , where you’ll learn about agrarian life in this part of the state. Take home the bacon from Tripp Country Hams in Brownsville, curing award-winning hams and bacon from a secret family recipe for decades. Walk the winding boardwalk through Cypress Grove Nature Park , a 162-acre cypress forest in Jackson. Reward yourself with a specialty burger from The Grind Mac & Cheese Burger Bar in the college town of Martin.

Walking Tall Trail

Relive the stories of larger-than-life figures on this trail, such as railroad legend Casey Jones, and blues and rock ’n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, B.B. King and W.C. Handy. Learn about the legacy of McNairy County Sheriff Buford Pusser at his Home and Museum in Adamsville, including the room where Elvis is said to have mourned during the sheriff’s funeral. Browse the selection of Amish and Mennonite homemade goods and creamy cheeses at Ada’s Unusual Country Store in Bethel Springs. Take the family camping in Pickwick Landing State Park . For more than 20 years, Wolf River Cafe in Rossville has been a great place to grab some catfish and blackberry cobbler. Be sure to stop in ready to eat!

Great River Road Trail 

Tracing stories along the Mississippi River from Memphis to Reelfoot Lake, this trail echoes the history of cotton fields, Civil War conflicts and life along America’s mightiest river. At Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum in Memphis, you can see the hidden tunnels and cellars where slaves waited for their chance at freedom. Visit the Alex Haley House and Museum in the “Roots” author’s childhood home of Henning, which honors his life and influence. Green thumbs will enjoy exploring Soleil Garden Center in Union City, where you can also browse local art or lay down a track in the nursery’s recording studio (only in Tennessee!).

Tennessee River Trail

Middle Green River Stables in Waynesboro offers access to 2,700 acres of trails on ponies or horses. Take a 10-mile, self-guided driving tour through Shiloh National Military Park , site of one of the most violent battles in the Civil War. Explore the local cultural heritage expressed along the many quilt trails through Houston, Stewart and Benton counties. Many of the quilt patterns have been passed down through generations.

Take a Scenic Road Trip Across Middle Tennessee 

Ring of fire trail.

On this trail through some of Middle Tennessee’s most beautiful scenery, treat your taste buds to a phosphate or egg cream soda at Thomas Drugs in Cross Plains, an old-fashioned soda fountain with burgers, icecream treats and more. Float the Red River in a canoe near Port Royal State Park , starting in Adams. Red River Canoe will even pack you a barbecue picnic lunch. Pick up farm fresh milk, vegetables and farm-raised beef at Gammon Family Dairy in Orlinda. Further east, explore the 80 miles of shoreline on Dale Hollow Lake by houseboat. Time your visit to Portland to coincide with the annual Strawberry Festival the third week of May, or grab a taste of the sweet fruit with a glass of Portland Strawberry Blush wine at Sumner Crest Winery .

Nashville’s Trace Trail

Visit local Amish farms in Ethridge, or shop their farmers market during the summer. Don’t miss the annual Mule Day Festival the first week of April in Columbia, beginning with a festive parade. Plan to spend Saturday morning at Centerville’s Grinder’s Switch Center , where local musicians sing and tell stories during the “Grinder’s Switch Hour.” Stop in local favorite Mt. Pleasant Grille for some pimiento cheese fritters, fried chicken and top it off with a banana split. While there, check out the many boutiques.

Old Tennessee Trail

Serenite Maison in Leiper’s Fork is a treasure trove of 19th-century European chandeliers, textiles, jewelry and farm tables. Enjoy a taste of New Orleans at Papa Boudreaux’s Cajun Café in Santa Fe. Check your Tennessee Wine Trail map, and plan your tasting tour at Natchez Hills Vineyard , Amber Falls Winery and Keg Springs Winery in Hampshire, close to the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Promised Land Trail

Retrace the trails forged by our earliest pioneers through forested mountains and hills and small towns. This particular trail is perfect for your next scenic motorcycle route. Known as the “Antique City of the South,” explore the area’s roots as you browse stores on Lebanon’s Historic Square . Satisfy your yearning for Memphis-style pit barbecue at the rustic Timberloft Restaurant in Gordonsville. Keep your catch or catch-and-release at Twin Lakes Catfish Farm in Baxter. Train enthusiasts will enjoy seeing the history of the country’s railroads at Crossville’s Wonderful World of Model Trains . Sample specialty cheeses at Simonton’s Gourmet & Cheese House in Crossville, or plan to attend the Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree in early July.

The Jack Trail

Discover 100 years of Tennessee history and see the world’s largest cedar bucket in the historic replica Cannonsburgh Village in Murfreesboro. Sip on exciting new varieties of moonshine at Short Mountain Distillery   in Woodbury. Explore hiking, camping and fishing at Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park . Browse the 2,000-year history of airplanes, all immaculately restored at the Beechcraft Heritage Museum in Tullahoma. Satisfy every taste with a tour of Jack Daniel Distillery or a refreshing milkshake at the Lynchburg Pharmacy .

Screaming Eagle Trail

Explore westward through Middle Tennessee, beginning with historic downtown Kingston Springs. The Fillin’ Station is a party spot on weekends with songwriter nights and live music. Fly through the trees on nine ziplines at Adventureworks , on the far side of Kingston Springs. Montgomery Bell State Park in Burns is the perfect place to rent a cabin for a fishing, hiking and golfing getaway. Explore downtown Dickson , where you’ll find antique shops and local arts and crafts. Appreciate the changing exhibits in Clarksville’s downtown art galleries and Customs House Museum . Get out on the water and see some wildlife with Ashland City’s Blue Heron Cruises through the Cheatham Wildlife Management Area.

Road Trip East Tennessee

Pie in the sky trail.

Begin your exploration of beautiful southeast Tennessee at Monteagle’s Hallelujah Pottery , where a colorful treasure is sure to catch your eye. Enjoy great food for a cause at the The Blue Chair Cafe & Tavern , a gourmet market and coffee shop in Sewanee. Sales support women and children in need. Plan a hiking trip along some of the state’s best trails in the waterfall haven of South Cumberland State Park in Monteagle. Take a tour of McMinnville’s Falcon Crest Mansion & Gardens , one of Tennessee’s grandest mansions, and enjoy lunch in the Victorian Tea Room. Treat yourself to a piece of lifetime cookware at the iconic Lodge Cast Iron Company in South Pittsburg. 

Sunny Side Trail

Uncover backroads brimming with history on this mountain trail. Walk the historic district of Jonesborough , Tennessee’s oldest town established in 1779 and considered the Storytelling Capital of the World. Explore the Appalachian Caverns near Blountville, where evidence shows habitation by early Native Americans, pre-Revolutionary War soldiers and frontiersmen including Daniel Boone and David Crockett. In Gray, discover more about the earth at Gray Fossil Site & Museum (also home to the Hands On! Discovery Center ) and Bristol Caverns in Bristol; then watch that rubber burn at Bristol Motor Speedway .

Rocky Top Trail

Natural attractions, Southern cuisine and Appalachian stories are on this trail. Savor the apple-based treats at Carver’s Orchard & Applehouse Restaurant , overlooking the 40,000 apple trees in Cosby. Learn more about the Cherokee people and Sequoyah himself at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore. Discover Appalachian history and culture at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend.

Tanasi Trail

This trail will take you on a trip on the wild side of Tennessee. Wind through the Ocoee River Gorge and over Chilhowee Mountain for stunning scenery. Discover high-quality South Appalachian arts and crafts at the Museum Center at 5ive Points in Cleveland. Take home a souvenir bottle of wine from Savannah Oaks Winery in Delano. Check their website for concerts and grape stomping events. Soak up railroad history in the restored 16-room, two-story Victorian passenger station and L&N Depot & Railroad Museum in Etowah. Join the locals at Baker’s Place family dinner barn in Englewood on a Friday or Saturday night for a little two-step or line dancing.

Top Secret Trail

Take a tour of Oak Ridge and learn how the secret Manhattan Project National Historical Park helped end World War II. Visit one of the utopian towns of Harriman or Rugby , where preserved, historic buildings tell tales of past dreams. Stop for a chocolate malt at ’50s-style Rock-a-Billy Café in Clarkrange and drop a coin in the jukebox. Saddle up on trail rides through Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area . At the end of the day, enjoy a meal and spectacular views at the floating Sunset Marina Restaurant on Dale Hollow Lake, popular with boaters and houseboaters.

White Lightning Trail

You’ll discover some of the finest mountain crafts at the Appalachian Arts Craft Center in Clinton. Explore underground on a two-hour, ranger-led caving adventure in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park . This is a great fall scenic drive route as well. Enjoy a cozy stay in the 1750s cabin at The Olde Mill Inn Bed & Breakfast in Cumberland Gap. Pet the cashmere goats when you visit the Mountain Hollow Farm and country store in Tazewell.

Places in this article

Mountain Hollow Farm

Cashmere goat farm and unique country store described as a "gem in the woods"

The Olde Mill Inn Bed & Breakfast

Come see history come alive at this unique and elegant inn! Our seven unique rooms will envelop you in comfort and luxury.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Appalachian Arts Craft Center

Welcome to the AACC

Sunset Marina & Resort

Sunset Marina & Resort on Beautiful Dale Hollow Lake

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Rock-a-Billy Diner / Cumberland Mountain General Store

Authentic 1923 General Store with a real 50's soda fountain dineer

Bakers Place

L & N Depot & Railroad Museum

Museum Center at 5ive Points

Local Museum in Historic Downtown Cleveland

Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

With indoor museum galleries, 17 historic outbuildings in our Appalachian village, living history, concerts, festivals, and other special events throughout the year, there is something for everyone at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center!

Sequoyah Birthplace Museum

Carver's Applehouse Restaurant & Orchard

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

NASCAR and NHRA Fans #1 Facility. The Last Great Colosseum. Thunder Valley.

Bristol Caverns

Hands On! Discovery Center

New Discoveries Everyday!

Gray Fossil Site & Museum

5 Million Years in the Making!

Appalachian Caverns

Lodge Cast Iron Factory Store

Across the street from the Lodge foundry is the original Lodge Factory Store featuring tons of American-made preseasoned cast iron, beautiful enameled cast iron, and other kitchen accessories.

South Cumberland State Park

South Cumberland State Park is located within four different Tennessee counties: Grundy, Franklin, Marion and Sequatchie. The park is composed of approximately 30,845 acres in nine separate areas and boasts some of the best hiking and backcountry camping

Blue Heron Cruises

Nature Cruises, Sunset Cruises, & Kids Adventure Cruises on a 22-passenger pontoon boat

Customs House Museum & Cultural Center

The Customs House Museum & Cultural Center is a general interest museum that houses art and history exhibits as well as hands-on children's creativity areas.

Montgomery Bell State Park

Montgomery Bell State Park is located seven miles east of Dickson in Dickson County. The park was once the center of iron industry in Middle Tennessee. The park's namesake, Montgomery Bell, formed one of the largest iron industries in Tennessee. Iron was

Adventureworks, Inc

Fillin' Station

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

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.

Beechcraft Heritage Museum

A world class aviation museum housing original Travel Air and Beechcraft airplanes, in addition to a full array of history on the Walter & Olive Ann Beech family, Aviatrix Louise Thaden and many other fascinating historical artifacts.

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park

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Wealth of Geeks

24 Unique and Instagram-Worthy Things To Do With Friends in Nashville, TN

Posted: January 13, 2024 | Last updated: January 13, 2024

If you have to choose just one incredibly Instagrammable US town, it’s got to be Tennessee’s Music City. The state’s capital, Nashville, is home to museums, downtown skyscrapers, tourist destinations, iconic music venues, and green space—plus a whole lot more.

Things To Do With Friends in Nashville

Whether you’re visiting with a long-term bestie or want to host a day out with fellow residents, you could easily make a day trip out of all the photogenic locations Nashville has to offer. If you’re looking for things to do with friends in Nashville, here are a few of our favorites that make for the perfect Instagram shot.

1. Gaylord Opryland

With more than 100,000 uses of its three main hashtags, #opryland, #gaylordopryland, and #oprylandhotel, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel is one of Nashville’s most visited resorts and one of its most Instagrammable locations. The hotel features multiple gigantic indoor gardens, running waterfalls, a boat ride, restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and live music. If you could only pick one thing to do with friends, this would be among the must-see things to do in Nashville.

2. Cheekwood

If it’s natural beauty you’re after, Cheekwood might be your favorite spot. The estate features 55 acres of art exhibitions and botanical gardens. It boasts more than 100,000 followers on Instagram and is regularly tagged  by the hottest musicians in town. Whether you’re looking for delicate photos among the flowers, a must-see seasonal event, or high-brow art photos, Cheekwood has you covered.

3. I Believe in Nashville Mural

The “I Believe in Nashville” mural might be one of the city’s most recognizable—and it got started in 12 South, where the original striped artwork was first painted. A second, larger mural has been added at Marathon Music Works. Snag directions and details on the mural’s official website . 

4. Radnor Lake

Nashville’s Radnor Lake is situated about 30 minutes outside and features a beautiful hour-long walk on a super easy flat trail around the lake. Its hiking ease and plethora of wildlife make it an excellent spot for photography. It’s been featured on the  official Nashville Instagram account  and has wooded areas, lake vistas, bridges, kayaking, and more that offer great photo opportunities.

5. Rosepepper Cantina

If you’re looking for things to do with friends that don’t necessarily require you to be in the photo, Rosepepper Cantina has your back. Rosepepper is well-known for its quirky jokes and puns on the sign outside, so join the more than 18,000 photos taken at the Instagram location tag—no selfie required! 

6. Nashville Looks Good on You Mural

The 12 South neighborhood is home to a lot of Music City’s iconic murals, and  the “Nashville Looks Good On You”  painting is no exception. The simple black background and white text mean any outfit will match, and the rectangular, lengthy wall it’s painted on makes group shots a breeze. A quick search for the mural’s name on Instagram reveals this one has been a go-to for years.

7. Downtown Broadway – AKA Honky Tonk Highway

One of Music City’s namesakes is country music. There’s no shortage of it on Honky Tonk Highway, the neon-lit section of downtown Broadway. From the brightly lit celebrity bar signs to horse-drawn carriages and line dancing, there’s excellent photo appeal here.

8. What Lifts You Wings Painting

Take a scroll through the 1,000+ posts tagged with The Gulch, and you’ll immediately notice multiple photos of the “What Lifts You” wings painted on a black wall in the Music City neighborhood. They were created by  Kelsey Montague , who has more than 150,000 Instagram followers. Although no single hashtag quantifies how many times people have taken photos here, it’s one of the most popular in town.

9. Draper James

With nearly one million followers on Instagram, the Draper James clothing company, founded by Reese Witherspoon, has a mural of its own that folks love to take photos with. Just outside the shop, you’ll find the blue and white gingham mural, plus a bench to pose on.

10. Printers Alley

Full of burlesque, cozy bars, lounge clubs, and eateries, Printer’s Alley has a life of its own. While also listed as one of the  best engagement photo locations  in the city, it has multiple Instagram location tags that have been used more than 10,000 times. The #printersalley hashtag has also been used more than 36,000 times. 

11. Centennial Park

Is there anything more quintessentially Nashville than Centennial Park? The city’s alternate nickname is “The Athens of the South,” and it makes sense; Nashville is home to the world’s only exact-size replica of the Parthenon. The gem itself offers multiple photo opportunities, but so do the pond and live ducks.

12. Percy Warner Park

Percy Warner Park is located just outside the city and offers miles of beautiful hiking trails to take photographs on. While the park’s official Instagram page has 8,000 followers, the location tag has been used more than 5,000 times, and #percywarnerpark has been used nearly 14,000 times. 

13. Five Daughters Bakery

Are you looking for super hip things to do with friends in Nashville? Five Daughters Bakery, with nearly 200,000 Instagram followers, also has an Instagram location tag that’s been used more than 30,000 times. From delicious pastries to the aesthetic decor, there’s so much here to photograph.

14. Pinewood Social

Another super cool eatery, Pinewood Social, feels like it was built for Instagram photos. With more than 33,000 followers and 73,000 posts on its location tag, Pinewood is a top spot for snazzy pics. From the drinks to the bowling lanes, there’s so much here to love!

15. Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame encapsulates Music City’s namesake and history, and it’s super popular. With more than 155,000 posts on its location tag, there’s something here for country fans and history buffs alike.

16. Cumberland Park

A favorite spot for influencers because of its downtown location and waterfront views, Cumberland Park has more than 16,000 posts on its location tag and more than 5,000 posts on #cumberlandpark.

17. Amelia’s Flower Truck

Amelia’s Flower Truck has more than 73,000 followers on Instagram, and it’s not hard to see why — who doesn’t want to snag a beautiful bouquet from a quaint flower delivery truck? There are more than 1,500 posts across multiple location tags and 5,000 posts on #ameliasflowertruck. This one is photogenic and popular but is still a little niche and unique.

18. John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

With more than 28,000 posts on its location tag, this striking downtown pedestrian bridge is a top location for group and single photos. Whether you’re shooting the bridge itself or a view of your outfit from its top, this is a must-visit spot. 

19. Dream Nashville

Talk about swanky! Dream Nashville is a new lounge club and bar with nearly 25,000 Instagram followers. The location tag has been used more than 5,000 times, and with a speakeasy, pop-up installations, and more, there’s a lot here to show off. 

20. Frist Art Museum

Is there anything more visually appealing than a literal art museum? The Frist is Nashville’s most iconic gallery, and the exhibitions change all the time. With 40,000 followers on Instagram, it’s also a trendy locale. 

21. White Limozeen

This Dolly Parton-themed bar sits atop a separate Nashville hotel and has art, drinks, and a pool that’s just begging to be photographed. With more than 30,000 posts at its location tag, it’s not like you’d be the only one!

22. Biscuit Love

With multiple Nashville locations that have thousands of posts to each of their location tags, you can’t go wrong by brunching at Biscuit Love. It’s just one of many spots that offer something other than country music if that isn’t your thing.

23. 5th and Broadway

The latest shopping district, nestled in downtown, 5th and Broadway, offers tons of shops, food pics to snap, and outdoor posing opportunities!

24. Ryman Auditorium

Last but certainly not least, Ryman Auditorium is an iconic, historic Nashville venue. With nearly 300,000 Instagram followers and more than 300,000 uses of its location tag, this is one place you shouldn’t miss!

Music City isn’t just about country music, although there’s also plenty of that. Whether you’re looking for things to do with friends or simply need a new snapshot for Instagram, Nashville has something for you. From museums and history to beautiful outdoor green spaces, there’s no excuse not to grab a great photo. Grab your boots and cowboy hat and get to it!

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