27 Best Weekend Getaways from Nashville (By a Local)

Mammoth Cave National Park

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: Approximately 1.5 hours | Google Maps link | Destination website | 👉 Search for hotels near Mammoth Cave National Park on Booking

Situated less than 100 miles north of Nashville in Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is a unique weekend trip. The park encompasses over 400 miles of underground caves and has the longest cave system worldwide.

There is a short self-guided tour option, but guided excursions are the best way to experience Mammoth Cave. This is a great summer weekend escape because the temperature inside the cave stays around 54 degrees Fahrenheit even on a sweltering August afternoon.

If you enjoy hiking, you can also explore some of the trails around Mammoth Cave National Park. My family prefers to walk the trails during our trips because they aren’t usually busy.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 4 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Accommodations in Gatlinburg on Booking

One of East Tennessee`s mountain towns, Gatlinburg is sometimes referred to as the gateway to the Smoky Mountains. Of course, there are plenty of activities to engage in within Gatlinburg itself! View the mountains from the 400-foot observation tower at the Gatlinburg Space Needle or soar over Crockett Mountain at the Gatlinburg Skylift Park.

The populated town well-known for tourism additionally has different attractions like interesting mazes, evening exhibits, and an aquarium. Gatlinburg is a great place for families to go to, but it furthermore makes an exceptional base for anybody who needs to investigate Tennessee’s mountains.

If you want to glimpse the mountains with someone who can show you how to bypass crowds and find the finest scenic views, check out this guided hiking tour.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 3.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Lodgings in Pigeon Forge on Booking

Pigeon Forge is another popular weekend destination, particularly for families. This town, located precisely between Gatlinburg and Sevierville, contains numerous attractions. The area becomes crowded and is undoubtedly kitschy, but it’s extremely enjoyable to pay a visit.

In Pigeon Forge, you`ll find various kinds of entertainment – frequently including country music, a patriotic motif, and potentially some gospel too. The Dolly Parton Stampede is my preferred dinner theater in Pigeon Forge.

For thrill-seekers, you can ride a sphere down a slope at Outdoor Gravity Park, experience indoor skydiving at Flyaway, and check out the SkyFlyer at The Track. Don’t worry, there are calmer activities in Pigeon Forge, too. You truly can find something for everyone here.

Knoxville, Tennessee

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: Approximately 3.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Knoxville on Booking

Knoxville is undoubtedly one of the coolest places in Tennessee and one of the best weekend escapes from Nashville.

Knoxville is situated in eastern Tennessee close to the Tennessee River. The city contains an enjoyable downtown region with numerous shopping and dining options. Market Square is a popular area to visit, and it seems festivals are often happening there.

Even when there aren’t any special events, there is still plenty to do in Knoxville. If time allows during your weekend trip, be certain to stop at World’s Fair Park, which was constructed for the 1982 World’s Fair. You can head up to the 4th floor of the Sunsphere for lovely views of the city, river, and Smoky Mountains.

Additionally, in the Knoxville Urban Wilderness, visitors can explore a 1000-acre space offering hiking, cycling, kayaking, fishing, and swimming without leaving the city. It`s a must for outdoor lovers.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 2 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Accommodations in Chattanooga on Booking

Situated in eastern Tennessee near the Tennessee River, Chattanooga has long been a popular destination for sightseers and a delightful day trip from Nashville. As far back as the early 1900s, people came to Chattanooga to view nearby Lookout Mountain from a distance. Rock City Gardens and Ruby Falls still attract visitors to wander on the mountain today.

If you’re seeking family-friendly getaways, Chattanooga presents a perfect choice. The Chattanooga Zoo and the Tennessee Aquarium are enjoyable for all age groups. The city is also home to the Creative Discovery Museum, which is considered one of the premier children’s museums in the United States.

Visitors can easily navigate Chattanooga using the public transportation system and downtown is quite walkable.

Memphis, Tennessee

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 3.5 hours | How to Travel From Nashville to Memphis | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Accommodation in Memphis on Booking

While Nashville earns its nickname Music City, Tennessee has other areas with a rich musical past.

Situated around 3.5 hours west of Nashville, Memphis is the perfect weekend outing for any music lover thanks to locations like Elvis’ Graceland, Sun Studio, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Memphis is known as the Home of the Blues, but it nurtured all kinds of artists from country music to rock ‘n roll as well.

A somber visit to the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis is incomplete without seeing the Lorraine Motel site – the room where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stayed has been left exactly as it was on April 4, 1968.

Memphis is renowned for its cuisine, particularly its barbecue. Some top spots to try the signature Memphis flavor include Rendezvous, A&R Bar-B-Que, and the Bar-B-Q Shop. To sample as much of Memphis` food as possible, book this guided Downtown Memphis Food Tour. While enjoying some delicious dishes, you`ll learn about the city`s rich history as well.

Begin planning your Memphis weekend escape now with my guide to the best things to do and see in Memphis.

Atlanta, Georgia

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 4 hours | Google Maps | Information about Atlanta | 👉 Browse Atlanta hotels

With more than 50 million visitors annually, Atlanta is one of the ideal Nashville weekend trips for individuals who want to enjoy a bustling city full of excellent museums, a superb restaurant scene, historic landmarks, and beautiful outdoor attractions. The city truly offers everything.

One of the biggest visitor attractions in Atlanta is the Georgia Aquarium. Here you’ll discover sharks, penguins, otters, and lots of other intriguing aquatic species. Other well-known attractions include the World of Coca-Cola, the Atlanta Braves, and Six Flags.

There are simply too many activities to do in Atlanta to list them all. If there’s something you’re interested in, there’s likely an opportunity to experience it somewhere in Atlanta.

📚 Related Reading: Driving in Nashville for Visitors | Rules & Tips

Huntsville, Alabama

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 2 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Explore Hotels in Huntsville through Booking

Only a roughly 2-hour drive outside of Nashville, Huntsville (also called Rocket City) commonly brings to mind fields like space travel, engineering, and technology given its history. However, the city has plenty more on offer for those without specific interests in those areas as well.

Attractions involve the U.S. Space and Rocket Center along with the Huntsville Museum of Art, Lowe Mill ARTS and Entertainment, and the Huntsville beer trail route.

Visitors may be surprised to discover the city possesses a gastronomic scene too. Hundreds of great dishes can be tried from burgers to tacos, blue plate specials, and fried sandwiches.

Louisville, Kentucky

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 3 hours | provided road map | City information portal | 👉 Browse accommodations in Louisville here

Enthusiasts of bourbon should definitely make the 3-hour drive from Nashville to Louisville. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail starts at the Frazier History Museum, and visitors can make their way to several distilleries all situated in the city.

Accompany your beverages with dishes from Louisville`s emerging culinary scene. The city has multiple James Beard award-winning chefs and dining establishments. There`s also a good selection of brunch spots in Louisville.

Jackson, Tennessee

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Accommodations in Winter Park on Booking

About halfway between Nashville and Memphis, Jackson makes a good weekend trip independently or as a stopping point between the two larger cities in Tennessee.

Jackson’s growth was originally connected to the railroad boom during the 19th century. Many of the city’s attractions, like the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum, reflect that part of the city’s history.

The welcoming location has a casual character, especially contrasted with Nashville and Memphis. You can spend the morning exploring charming destinations like Century Farm Winery or bird watching at Cypress Grove Nature Park. Jackson is the perfect place to relish a rural retreat.

Rock Island State Park

🗺️ The drive from Nashville takes around 1.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Browse Hotels near Rock Island State Park

Tennessee’s state parks are among the best locations to appreciate the natural wonders of Tennessee. While all the parks are excellent, Rock Island State Park is one of the most visited state parks within driving range of Nashville.

Just 1.5 hours from Nashville, Rock Island State Park has multiple hiking trails with a variety of difficulty levels. More challenging trails include routes with ratings that are moderate to strenuous. If you want to see waterfalls, check out Great Falls and Twin Falls. In fact, the Twin Falls and Down River Trail are featured in my guide to some of the best hiking options near Nashville.

For those who’d prefer a less active weekend getaway, Rock Island State Park is home to Center Hill Lake, which has a natural sand beach. Visitors can swim here, but should be aware that there is no lifeguard.

Oxford, Mississippi

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 4 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search for hotels in Oxford on Booking

Situated about an hour south of Memphis, Oxford is a charming university town in Mississippi. While the town gets most of its visitors on game day during football season, there’s significantly more going on here. Literary enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Rowan Oak, home of the classic American author William Faulkner.

The area surrounding the courthouse, called The Square, is filled with charming boutiques, eateries, and bars. As a graduate of the University of Mississippi, I might be prejudiced but I`m convinced that Square Books is one of the finest bookstores in the United States.

Tupelo, Mississippi

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 3.5 – 4 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Hotels in Tupelo on Booking

Tupelo is certainly one of the best weekend escapes from Nashville for admirers of Elvis Presley. Even though the musical icon’s Graceland mansion is situated in Memphis, Elvis’ origins in Tupelo are a little more humble. Here you can see the two-room home where Elvis was born and lived with his family for the initial 13 years of his life.

In addition to sites dedicated to the King of Rock `n Roll, Tupelo is worth visiting for its culinary options. Kermit`s Soul Kitchen, King Chicken Fillin` Station, and Crave are just a few of the establishments you`ll want to stop by while you`re in Tupelo.

Asheville, North Carolina

🗺️ The approximate travel time from Nashville to Asheville is between 4.5 to 5 hours | Map Website | City Website | Locations to Lodge in Asheville | 👉 Scan Lodgings in Asheville on Site

The nearly 5 hour drive from Nashville to Asheville in western North Carolina is one of the lengthier drives for our weekend getaways from Nashville. Nevertheless, this artistic mountain town merits the elongated car journey. With abundant outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and fishing, it is ideal for active travelers.

There are numerous extraordinary things to do in Asheville. One of my top attractions there is Biltmore House, an old residence and domain. The city additionally has an awesome nearby craftsmanship scene. You can visit craftsmanship galleries, check the city`s numerous breweries, go outdated shopping, or look over the rancher`s business sectors.

Elizabethtown, Kentucky

The city of Tempe is home to Mill Avenue, where college students often gather to socialize at establishments such as Mill Cue Club billiards hall, Pedal Haus Brewery, and near Culinary Dropout,Four Peaks Brewing Company, and Taste of Tops, just to name a few.

History buffs will find value in visiting Elizabethtown. Abraham Lincoln was born nearby in LaRue County, and the town site contains the Lincoln Heritage House. One of the cabins on the property was originally constructed by Lincoln`s father, Thomas Lincoln.

In Elizabethtown’s Freeman Lake Park, you’ll find the Sarah Bush Johnston Lincoln Memorial Cabin. This is a replica of the cabin where Abraham Lincoln’s stepmother inhabited.

In addition to historic sites, the town also has beautiful natural areas. Visitors can enjoy exploring Elizabethtown’s Greenspace Hiking Trails.

Lynchburg, Tennessee

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: approximately 1.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Accommodations in Lynchburg on Booking

Situated just 1.5 hours south of Nashville, Lynchburg is a small town yet home to one of the most recognizable brands worldwide. Jack Daniel`s headquarters can be found in Lynchburg. Visitors have the opportunity to tour the distillery and observe how the whiskey is manufactured.

Most people come to Lynchburg for distillery tours, but there’s more to do in this charming small city in Tennessee. You can easily spend a relaxing weekend visiting the local shops, antique stores, and eateries.

Dollywood

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: approximately 3.5 hours | Google Maps location guide | Destination website | 👉 Search nearby hotels at Expedia

Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge, deserves its own mention as one of the best weekend trips from Nashville due to its unique theme park qualities. The park is partly owned by country music icon Dolly Parton, and the entire park is themed around the culture of the Smoky Mountains.

Visitors can enjoy various rides typically found at theme parks, including having the unique opportunity to ride approximately 5 miles through the Smoky Mountains on a steam engine from the 19th century.

In addition to the rides, the food and the music are among the attractions for Dollywood. Some of the dining options feature delicious Southern cuisine. The cinnamon bread at the Grist Mill has earned a dedicated following.

Fans of Dolly Parton will enjoy seeing the museum dedicated to the singer at the park. In fact, you’ll find several Dolly Parton-related landmarks nearby in Pigeon Forge and Sevierville.

To make your visit to Dollywood even more enchanting, consider lodging at the DreamMore Resort.You’ll receive transportation from the resort to the park. Dollywood souvenirs are offered at the resort, so you don’t need to haul as much around all day.

Franklin, Tennessee

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 30 minutes | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Accommodations in Franklin on Booking

Only a brief drive south of Nashville, Franklin is a charming small town with historic sites, a lovely town square, and lots of excellent shopping. There’s a little something for everyone here.

Individuals interested in the history of conflict will take pleasure in touring the Carter House and Carnton Plantation. Families will find plenty of parks and diversions for children in Franklin. One of my favorite activities in Franklin is to stop by Arrington Vineyards, particularly on weekends when there’s live music for entertainment.

If you want a weekend getaway from Nashville without spending too much time traveling, Franklin is an excellent choice.

Sewanee, Tennessee

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 1.5 hours | Google Maps | 👉 Search Accommodations in Sewanee on Booking

Situated right on top of Monteagle Mountain, Sewanee is one of the best weekend escapes from Nashville.

The tiny town has around 2300 residents and is home to the University of the South. The school’s campus has beautiful gothic architecture dating back to the 1850s. While exploring, stop by All Saints’ Chapel to see the mosaics.

Though small, the town offers many interesting activities. You can shop the boutiques in Sewanee Village or sample fine dining establishments.

The scenery here is beautiful. It’s the perfect weekend escape from the noise and busyness in Nashville.

Clarksdale, Mississippi

To safely drink the water, I recommend using a water filtering appliance — a Grayl Geopress. I recently analyzed the Grayl in a published assessment and believe it is an excellent choice for its quality and fair expense.”

If you have an appreciation for Blues music, then plan a weekend excursion to Clarksdale. Though the roughly 4.5 hour drive to Mississippi isn`t brief, it`s worth it to see the home of legendary Blues artists like Muddy Waters and Sam Cooke.

One of the top attractions in the town is the Delta Blues Museum. You can also listen to live music at many of the different juke joints and clubs in Clarksdale.

There are other activities to do in Clarksdale as well. If you`re feeling bold, you can canoe on the Mississippi River or check out the shopping in the Arts & Culture precinct.

Cleveland, Mississippi

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: Around 5-5.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website| 👉 Search Hotels in Cleveland on Booking

Cleveland is another fantastic weekend excursion from Nashville for music lovers. The town is small, but it’s home to the Mississippi GRAMMY Museum, the only one situated outside of LA. Cleveland was chosen as the site for the museum due to the rich musical heritage of the Mississippi Delta.

Even if you’re more of a casual music fan like myself, the GRAMMY Museum’s exhibits are interactive and appealing enough for everyone to enjoy.

While Nafplio isn’t strictly a beach town, there are still plenty of nearby beaches where visitors can enjoy some sun, sand, or a swim in the sea.

Lexington, Kentucky

🗺️ Distance from Nashville: 3.5 hours | Google Maps | Destination Website | 👉 Search Available Lodging in Lexington on Booking

Known for equine racing and bourbon whisky, Lexington is an entertaining weekend trip from Nashville for couples or groups of acquaintances. Those interested in spirits will particularly enjoy visiting the Buffalo Trace Distillery. The Kentucky city also possesses a trendy downtown full of specialty shops, eateries, bars, and other establishments.

If you take an interest in history, you`ll enjoy exploring places like the Henry Clay Estate and the Waveland State Historic Site. There is a bit of something for everyone in Lexington.

Fall Creek Falls State Park

🗺️ The distance from Nashville to Fall Creek Falls State Park is around 2 hours by car. You can view driving directions and more information about the park on their website by following these links: Google Maps and Destination Website. You can also search for nearby hotels on Booking by clicking here: Search Hotels near Fall Creek Falls State Park.

For those who want to spend time outdoors, take a trip to Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spencer, Tennessee. If you want to see waterfalls, this is one of the best weekend escapes from Nashville. There are 10 waterfalls at the park, so there are plenty of waterfalls to track here.

Besides hiking, visitors can go rock climbing or try a canopy challenge. Fall Creek Falls is the perfect place to explore and enjoy some adventure away from the city borders.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

🗺️ Distance from Nashville is 1 hour | Google Maps of Bowling Green | Website about Bowling Green | 👉 Search Hotels in Bowling Green on Booking Site

If you’re looking for weekend escapes with a great food scene, then Bowling Green is for you. The Kentucky city is perhaps most recognized as the town where Corvettes are assembled, but there’s significantly more happening in Bowling Green.

There is a diverse selection of eateries here. Sushi aficionados should make sure to sample some of the best Japanese cuisine in the region at Yuki Japanese Restaurant. While in Bowling Green, you can also visit one of the neighboring vineyards and sample a wine tasting flight.

Florence, Alabama

🗺 Distance from Nashville: 2.5 hours | Google Maps | City site | 👉 Search Hotels in Florence on Booking

For a laid-back Southern charm, make your way from Nashville down to Florence, Alabama. Florence was named for the city in Italy, and while it’s very different from its namesake, Florence does have a cool, artistic atmosphere.

A premier attraction in the city is the Rosenbaum House designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The downtown quarter also offers enjoyable spots for dining and dynamic local spots. The college town serves as a good romantic weekend escape for partnered individuals.

Cincinnati, Ohio

• Luxurious Hotels: Capri by Fraser – Hilton – Stamford Plaza – Treasury

Situated on the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnatihas much to offer visitors. A few of the most popular attractions in the city are the Cincinnati Zoo, the Findlay Market, and the Great American Ball Park, home to the Cincinnati Reds.

Ardent baseball devotees will cherish this exploratory stroll that indicates the key spots in the city associated with the 1919 World Series dispute.

If you enjoy breweries, Cincinnati provides various unique options – you can even sample a cheesecake beer at Dead Low Brewing if that appeals. Regarding restaurants, the city caters to different tastes from classic Italian eateries to trendy brunch spots.

Cincinnati has an atmosphere completely different from Nashville, making it an excellent weekend getaway if one needs to switch things up for a couple of days.

FAQs about Nashville Getaways

***

Ready to enroll in Trusted Housesitters? Click here to establish your free profile.