Nashville, known as the “Music City,” is a vibrant hub that attracts visitors for its rich history, music scene, and cultural energy. But it’s also a perfect starting point for exploring the many exciting destinations within a short driving distance. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or thrill-seeker, Nashville’s central location makes it an ideal base for weekend getaways.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best weekend trips from Nashville, covering a wide variety of destinations. From natural landscapes like the Great Smoky Mountains to the urban charm of cities like St. Louis, there’s something for every type of traveler. Let’s dive into the top weekend escapes that are just a drive away.
8 Best Weekend Trips from Nashville
Cookeville
Distance from Nashville: ~1.5 hours
Cookeville is a small city packed with outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes. It’s the perfect weekend getaway for those who love nature and adventure.
- Highlights:
- Burgess Falls: A scenic spot for hiking and photography, offering stunning views of cascading waterfalls.
- Cummins Falls: A popular swimming hole beneath a waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Rock Island State Park: Known for its gorges and waterfalls, this park offers great hiking and water activities.
- Burgess Falls: A scenic spot for hiking and photography, offering stunning views of cascading waterfalls.
- Accommodation Options: Cookeville offers a range of accommodations from budget inns to luxurious campgrounds.
- Outdoor Activities: Waterfalls, hiking, kayaking. You can also go birdwatching or enjoy a peaceful day at the park.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Distance from Nashville: ~3+ hours
One of the most beautiful natural areas in the country, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers countless activities for nature lovers and families alike.
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and family trips.
- Highlights:
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A scenic drive perfect for sightseeing, especially in the fall.
- Cades Cove: A picturesque valley with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and historic buildings.
- Grotto Falls: A lovely waterfall that’s easily accessible from the hiking trail.
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A scenic drive perfect for sightseeing, especially in the fall.
- Accommodation: There are in-park campgrounds, cozy cabins, and resort stays perfect for families and solo travelers.
Chattanooga
Distance from Nashville: ~2 hours
Chattanooga is a dynamic city full of outdoor adventures, history, and family-friendly activities. It’s great for a weekend of exploration and fun.
- Best For: Outdoor adventures and city exploration.
- Must-see attractions:
- Ruby Falls: An incredible underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain.
- Rock City: Known for its rock formations and breathtaking panoramic views.
- Tennessee Aquarium: A fun and educational stop with a variety of aquatic species.
- Ruby Falls: An incredible underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain.
- Accommodation: You can choose from boutique hotels, nature-oriented stays, or riverside properties.
Red River Gorge
Distance from Nashville: ~4 hours
For those who love rugged landscapes and outdoor adventures, Red River Gorge is a hidden gem that provides the perfect weekend escape.
- Best For: Rock climbing, hiking, and water activities.
- Things to do:
- Natural Bridge State Park: Home to impressive rock formations and hiking trails.
- Gray’s Arch: A stunning natural arch and hiking trail offering a panoramic view of the gorge.
- Whittleton Arch: A must-see spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Natural Bridge State Park: Home to impressive rock formations and hiking trails.
- Accommodation: Options include backcountry camping, rustic cabins, and charming inns.
St. Louis
Distance from Nashville: ~4.5 hours
St. Louis is an excellent destination for those who enjoy city life with a touch of history and culture.
- Best For: City lovers, history buffs, and museum enthusiasts.
- Key Highlights:
- Gateway Arch: Visit the iconic Gateway Arch and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
- St. Louis Wheel: A ride that gives you spectacular views of the city.
- Union Station: A historic building with shops, restaurants, and attractions like the St. Louis Aquarium.
- Gateway Arch: Visit the iconic Gateway Arch and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
- Accommodation: There are a variety of hotels from budget to luxury, many of which are located close to popular attractions.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Distance from Nashville: ~1.5 hours
Mammoth Cave National Park is the longest cave system in the world and offers both adventure and relaxation.
- Best For: Families, nature lovers, and cave exploration.
- Activities:
- Guided cave tours: Explore underground chambers and tunnels with an expert guide.
- Hiking: There are various trails for different skill levels.
- Canoeing and fishing: Enjoy the peaceful waters of the Green River.
- Guided cave tours: Explore underground chambers and tunnels with an expert guide.
- Accommodation: Options near the park include campgrounds, hotels, and cozy cabins.
Gatlinburg
Distance from Nashville: ~3.5 hours
Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers a mix of outdoor adventure and family-friendly attractions.
- Best For: A mix of mountain adventures and city attractions.
- Highlights:
- Ober Mountain: A year-round destination with skiing in the winter and hiking in the warmer months.
- Anakeesta: A mountaintop adventure park with ziplining, nature walks, and stunning views.
- The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Accessible from Gatlinburg for hiking and exploring.
- Ober Mountain: A year-round destination with skiing in the winter and hiking in the warmer months.
- Accommodation: Family-friendly resorts, cabins, and luxury stays are available.
Knoxville
Distance from Nashville: ~2.75 hours
Knoxville is an underrated destination that offers outdoor exploration and vibrant city life.
- Best For: Outdoor exploration and cultural experiences.
- Highlights:
- Sunsphere: A landmark from the 1982 World’s Fair with stunning city views.
- Ijams Nature Center: Offers hiking trails, wildlife watching, and outdoor climbing.
- Hiking spots like Triple Falls: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by nature.
- Sunsphere: A landmark from the 1982 World’s Fair with stunning city views.
- Accommodation: Mid-range hotels, family-friendly options, and pet-friendly accommodations.
Additional Weekend Trips to Consider
Memphis
Distance from Nashville: ~3 hours 15 minutes
Memphis, the birthplace of blues and soul music, is a city that exudes history and culture. It’s perfect for music lovers and history buffs alike, offering a deep dive into the roots of American music.
- Best For: Music lovers and history buffs.
- Things to Do:
- Graceland: Visit the famous home of Elvis Presley and explore his life and legacy.
- Sun Studio: Known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, take a guided tour of the recording studio where legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their hits.
- National Civil Rights Museum: Located at the Lorraine Motel, this museum is dedicated to telling the story of the American civil rights movement.
- Graceland: Visit the famous home of Elvis Presley and explore his life and legacy.
- Accommodation: Memphis offers a range of options from historic hotels to modern, boutique stays, all centrally located near the city’s attractions.
Huntsville, AL
Distance from Nashville: ~2.5 hours
Huntsville, often referred to as “The Rocket City,” has a rich history in space exploration and science. It’s a city that combines cutting-edge technology with Southern charm.
- Best For: Space enthusiasts and history lovers.
- Things to Do:
- U.S. Space and Rocket Center: Visit this incredible museum where you can learn about space exploration and see rockets, spacecraft, and simulators.
- Huntsville Botanical Garden: Perfect for a relaxing stroll, this garden features beautiful flora and a butterfly house where you can see thousands of butterflies up close.
- U.S. Space and Rocket Center: Visit this incredible museum where you can learn about space exploration and see rockets, spacecraft, and simulators.
- Accommodation: Huntsville offers affordable stays at local hotels, as well as boutique options with a more personalized experience.
Florence, AL
Distance from Nashville: ~3 hours
Florence is a charming city located in the “Shoals” region of Alabama, known for its rich cultural history, natural beauty, and excellent Southern cuisine.
- Best For: Culture, history, and relaxation.
- Things to Do:
- McFarland Park: A scenic park along the Tennessee River that’s perfect for a picnic or a relaxing walk.
- Helen Keller’s Childhood Home: Explore the childhood home of Helen Keller in nearby Tuscumbia, where you can learn about her early life and achievements.
- Historic Downtown: Florence is home to a well-preserved downtown area filled with antique shops, art galleries, and cafes.
- McFarland Park: A scenic park along the Tennessee River that’s perfect for a picnic or a relaxing walk.
- Accommodation: Local hotels offer comfortable stays, with the option to stay by the river for a more peaceful experience.
Lexington, KY
Distance from Nashville: ~3 hours
Lexington, also known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” is famous for its horse racing heritage and bourbon production. This city is a great choice for those who want to experience Kentucky’s rich culture and history.
- Best For: Horse racing, bourbon lovers, and Southern charm.
- Things to Do:
- Bourbon Distilleries: Visit world-renowned distilleries such as Woodford Reserve and Four Roses to learn about the bourbon-making process and enjoy tastings.
- Keeneland Racecourse: One of the most beautiful and historic racecourses in the world, where you can watch horse races and explore the grounds.
- Mary Todd Lincoln’s Childhood Home: Visit the home of Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln, and learn about her early life.
- Bourbon Distilleries: Visit world-renowned distilleries such as Woodford Reserve and Four Roses to learn about the bourbon-making process and enjoy tastings.
- Accommodation: From boutique hotels near downtown to cozy bed-and-breakfasts, Lexington offers a variety of lodging options.
Asheville, NC
Distance from Nashville: ~5 hours
Asheville is a vibrant mountain city known for its arts scene, outdoor activities, and beautiful landscapes. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for both adventure and culture.
- Best For: Mountain adventures, art, and food lovers.
- Things to Do:
- Biltmore Estate: Explore the largest privately-owned house in America, surrounded by stunning gardens and a winery.
- Hiking at Graveyard Loop: A scenic trail offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
- Craft Beer Scene: Asheville is home to more than 30 craft breweries, including popular spots like Asheville Brewing, Wicked Weed, and Zillicoah Beer Company.
- Biltmore Estate: Explore the largest privately-owned house in America, surrounded by stunning gardens and a winery.
- Accommodation: From rustic cabins to boutique hotels in downtown Asheville, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Exploring the Best Attractions on Each Trip
Outdoor Adventures
Many of the weekend trips from Nashville offer incredible outdoor experiences that connect you to nature. From waterfalls to mountain trails, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for adventure.
- Top Activities:
- Kayaking: Experience the thrill of paddling on serene lakes or rushing rivers in places like Red River Gorge and the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Rock Climbing: Red River Gorge is famous for its world-class climbing spots, perfect for both beginners and experts.
- Hiking: Trails in destinations like Mammoth Cave National Park and Great Smoky Mountains offer a range of difficulty levels, allowing hikers of all abilities to enjoy the outdoors.
- Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for wildlife in areas like Cades Cove in the Smokies, where you can spot deer, bears, and wild turkeys.
- Kayaking: Experience the thrill of paddling on serene lakes or rushing rivers in places like Red River Gorge and the Great Smoky Mountains.
Cultural Exploration
Many of these weekend trips also allow you to immerse yourself in rich history and culture. Whether it’s the music legacy of Memphis or the bourbon distilleries of Lexington, there’s much to discover about the history of the American South.
- Museums and Landmarks:
- National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis): Learn about the history of the civil rights movement and its impact on America.
- Gateway Arch (St. Louis): A symbol of the westward expansion, this arch provides a panoramic view of the city.
- U.S. Space and Rocket Center (Huntsville): Explore the history of space exploration with exhibits featuring rockets and space technology.
- National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis): Learn about the history of the civil rights movement and its impact on America.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, many of these destinations offer family-friendly activities that appeal to all ages. From amusement parks to wildlife experiences, there’s plenty of fun for everyone.
- Top Family Spots:
- Dollywood (Pigeon Forge): A theme park offering rides, shows, and plenty of entertainment for the whole family.
- Tennessee Aquarium (Chattanooga): A hands-on experience for kids to learn about marine life and wildlife.
- Mammoth Cave National Park: Take a cave tour with the whole family, exploring the longest cave system in the world.
- Dollywood (Pigeon Forge): A theme park offering rides, shows, and plenty of entertainment for the whole family.
Accommodation Options and Travel Tips
When planning your weekend trips from Nashville, finding the right accommodation can make or break your getaway. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly stays or luxurious resorts, there’s an array of options to suit every traveler’s needs. Below, we’ll cover accommodation choices for each destination and provide some helpful travel tips to make your trip as smooth as possible.
Budget to Luxury Stays
From charming bed-and-breakfasts to upscale hotels, the weekend trips from Nashville offer a variety of accommodation options to match every budget.
- Cookeville:
- Budget: Local inns and campgrounds offer affordable stays for those on a tight budget.
- Luxury: For a more upscale experience, check out the Comfort Suites or other nearby resorts that offer modern amenities in a cozy setting.
- Budget: Local inns and campgrounds offer affordable stays for those on a tight budget.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
- Budget: For nature lovers, camping in the park is an excellent choice. Elkmont Campground is a popular spot, offering a rustic experience in the heart of the park.
- Luxury: If you prefer comfort, consider staying in a cozy cabin or at a luxury resort like the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park, which provides family-friendly amenities and stunning mountain views.
- Budget: For nature lovers, camping in the park is an excellent choice. Elkmont Campground is a popular spot, offering a rustic experience in the heart of the park.
- Chattanooga:
- Budget: Budget-friendly hotels like the Days Inn Chattanooga offer affordable options with a convenient location.
- Luxury: For a more luxurious experience, stay at The Westin Chattanooga, which provides an upscale environment with amenities like an outdoor pool and a rooftop bar.
- Budget: Budget-friendly hotels like the Days Inn Chattanooga offer affordable options with a convenient location.
- Red River Gorge:
- Budget: Campgrounds in the area, such as the Red River Gorge Campground, provide an affordable and scenic place to stay.
- Luxury: If you prefer a more comfortable stay, you can book a cabin in the area, such as those available at Cliffview Resort, offering breathtaking views and modern amenities.
- Budget: Campgrounds in the area, such as the Red River Gorge Campground, provide an affordable and scenic place to stay.
- St. Louis:
- Budget: The Red Roof Inn and other affordable hotels offer budget-conscious travelers comfortable and convenient lodging.
- Luxury: The Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis provides a luxurious experience with stunning views of the Gateway Arch and exceptional service.
- Budget: The Red Roof Inn and other affordable hotels offer budget-conscious travelers comfortable and convenient lodging.
- Mammoth Cave National Park:
- Budget: For an affordable stay, campgrounds and local motels around the park offer budget-friendly options.
- Luxury: The Lodge at Mammoth Cave provides a more luxurious option with comfortable rooms and close proximity to the park’s activities.
- Budget: For an affordable stay, campgrounds and local motels around the park offer budget-friendly options.
- Gatlinburg:
- Budget: Gatlinburg offers a variety of budget hotels, including the Econo Lodge and local motels, ideal for short stays.
- Luxury: For a more luxurious getaway, consider staying at The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, which features scenic mountain views and an indoor pool.
- Budget: Gatlinburg offers a variety of budget hotels, including the Econo Lodge and local motels, ideal for short stays.
- Knoxville:
- Budget: Budget-friendly options like the La Quinta Inn & Suites or Days Inn provide clean and comfortable stays without breaking the bank.
- Luxury: The Tennessean Hotel offers a refined and upscale experience in downtown Knoxville, with modern amenities and easy access to the city’s attractions.
- Budget: Budget-friendly options like the La Quinta Inn & Suites or Days Inn provide clean and comfortable stays without breaking the bank.
How to Get There
Many of the destinations on this list are accessible by car within a 3-5 hour drive from Nashville, making them perfect for a weekend trip. However, there are a few other transportation options that might suit your travel style.
- Car: The best way to get to these destinations is by car. Renting a car is a good option if you don’t have one or if you’re looking for flexibility. Many of the places listed are best explored with your own vehicle, as public transportation options may be limited in more remote areas.
- Bus or Train: If you’re not up for driving, you can take a Greyhound bus or Amtrak train to some of the major cities like St. Louis or Memphis. From there, local transportation can be used to reach your accommodation.
- Flight: If you’re limited on time, flying to a nearby city like St. Louis, Memphis, or Huntsville might be an option. Once there, rent a car or use public transportation to get to your destination.
Transportation Tips
- Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the destination at your own pace. Look for rental car deals at Nashville International Airport or in downtown Nashville.
- Toll Roads: Be aware of any toll roads along the way, especially when traveling to states like Kentucky or Alabama. Keep small change or an electronic payment method handy.
- Parking: Many cities on this list, including St. Louis, Gatlinburg, and Memphis, offer parking options for visitors, but it’s always best to check ahead of time for availability and fees, especially if you’re traveling to popular tourist areas.
- Local Transport: Once you arrive at your destination, use local transport options, such as trolleys in St. Louis, buses in Chattanooga, or the scenic cable cars in Gatlinburg, to get around.
Conclusion
Nashville is a wonderful starting point for a wide range of weekend trips. Whether you’re looking for nature, history, culture, or adventure, the surrounding regions have something for every type of traveler. The beauty of these weekend getaways is that they offer a variety of experiences within a short driving distance, allowing you to enjoy different aspects of the American South and beyond.
From hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains to exploring the vibrant city life in St. Louis, these weekend trips promise to provide lasting memories and fun adventures. So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to enjoy some of the best destinations just a drive away from Music City!
Additional Important Points
Best Time to Visit for Weekend Trips
Choosing the right time to visit can significantly enhance your experience. Here’s a general guide:
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for exploring cities and outdoor destinations like the Great Smoky Mountains or Gatlinburg, where you can enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for family-friendly trips like Pigeon Forge and St. Louis, though it can be crowded. Expect higher temperatures, especially in urban areas.
- Fall (September to November): A great time to visit Asheville, Great Smoky Mountains, and Red River Gorge for stunning fall foliage.
- Winter (December to February): Ideal for cozy mountain retreats in Gatlinburg or Mammoth Cave. The winter months offer fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
Road Trip Essentials for Weekend Getaways
- Snacks and Water: Pack snacks and a water bottle to stay refreshed during the drive, especially for longer trips to places like St. Louis or Asheville.
- Car Charger and GPS: Ensure your car is fully charged with a portable power bank, and use GPS or a road map to avoid getting lost.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes for long hours in the car, and always have a light jacket on hand, even during warmer months, as temperatures can change.
Best Weekend Trips for Nature Lovers
For those who enjoy the outdoors, the best weekend trips from Nashville for nature enthusiasts include:
- Red River Gorge: Known for its rock formations and hiking trails.
- Great Smoky Mountains: A haven for wildlife lovers with its many species of animals and plants.
- Mammoth Cave National Park: Perfect for those who enjoy exploring underground caves and hiking.
FAQs
1. How far are the weekend trips from Nashville?
The weekend trips from Nashville vary in distance but are typically within a 3–5 hour drive. Locations like Gatlinburg and Chattanooga are closer, while destinations like St. Louis and Asheville require slightly longer drives.
2. What are the best family-friendly weekend trips from Nashville?
The best family-friendly trips include Gatlinburg, where families can enjoy hiking, Ober Mountain, and Anakeesta. Pigeon Forge also offers fun attractions like Dollywood and dinner shows that are perfect for kids.
3. Are there any weekend trips for history lovers?
Yes, Memphis, with attractions like Graceland and the National Civil Rights Museum, is ideal for history lovers. St. Louis also offers a rich historical experience with sites like the Gateway Arch and the Museum at the Missouri History Museum.
4. What are the best weekend trips for hiking and outdoor adventures?
Great options for hiking include Red River Gorge, which has stunning trails like Gray’s Arch, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with its wide range of trails for all skill levels. Mammoth Cave National Park also offers scenic trails.
5. Which destination is best for a relaxing weekend getaway from Nashville?
If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing weekend, Gatlinburg offers serene views of the Smoky Mountains and quiet retreats like cozy cabins. Florence, AL, with its quiet riverside parks, is also a great choice for a laid-back trip.
6. What’s the best time of year to visit St. Louis for a weekend trip?
The best time to visit St. Louis is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are many outdoor activities available. Summer can be hot, but it’s also when many events take place.
7. How can I plan my road trip from Nashville?
Planning your road trip involves checking the distances to your chosen destinations, arranging accommodations in advance, and packing for your trip. Be sure to have snacks, a portable charger, and comfortable clothing, especially for longer drives.
8. Are there any pet-friendly weekend trips from Nashville?
Yes, many of these destinations are pet-friendly. Gatlinburg and Knoxville offer pet-friendly cabins and outdoor spaces like hiking trails where pets can join in the adventure. Just check with your accommodation in advance for pet policies.