Best Weekend Trip From Nashville – Complete List:

The best weekend trip guide from Nashville, TN – Nashville is a fantastic city with plenty of things to do and see. That being said, sometimes you just want to get away for the weekend somewhere else near you.

There are several great destinations within a few hours’ drive. Listed Below are some wonderful vacation destinations that can be driven.

Here are some of the best weekend trips from Nashville:

Best Weekend Trip from Nashville to Other Tennessee Destinations:

Gatlinburg, TN Weekend Trip From Nashville:

(3.5 hours by car)

Gatlinburg, TN is a charming mountain town. This tourist town is located at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountian National Park. For this reason, it’s a perfect place for nature lovers everywhere.

A weekend trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg is a perfect family or couples vacation.

Learn More About Gatlinburg and all the best places to see.

Memphis, TN Weekend trip from Nashville:

(3 hours from Nashville)

Home of blues, barbecue, and Elvis Presley Memphis is a top-pick weekend road trip.

There are also some fantastic luxury hotels, including the famous Peabody. The Peabody Hotel is a historic hotel located in downtown Memphis. It is known for its luxury accommodations, its rooftop pool, and its resident ducks.

Need a little casino action? Tunica Mississippi offers the full casino experience a short drive from Memphis.

I recommend Memphis for couples or adult vacation destinations.

Memphis offers plenty of opportunities for music lovers.

Chattanooga, TN trip from Nashville:

(2 hours from Nashville)

Chattanooga is my hometown and a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Take a scenic drive along the Lookout Mountain Parkway, visit Rock City Gardens, or hike in the nearby Chickamauga National Military Park.

Chattanooga is recommended for families, couples, and solo travelers.

As a Chattanooga local, I’ve written extensively on travel to this area of Tennessee. Be sure to read: 99 things to do in Chattanooga, Tennessee:

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Getaway from Nashville:

(3 plus Hours driving from Music City)

Pigeon Forge is a city located about 250 miles from Music City. It is located in the Great Smoky Mountains and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation.

There are also a number of popular tourist attractions in Pigeon Forge, such as the Dollywood theme park, Titanic Museum Attraction, and much more.

While spending time in Pigeon Forge, visit Sevierville, Tenn.

Knoxville, Tennessee Traveling from Nashville:

(3 Hours)

Knoxville is a city located about 150 miles from Nashville. It is known for its beautiful scenery, including the Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River.

Knoxville is also rich in history with attractions like James White Fort and the East Tennessee History Center.

College Football enthusiasts love Knoxville for visiting Neyland stadium. This is where the University of Tennessee Volunteers play football. But it’s not all just about football, check out other college sporting events like, basketball and baseball.

I recommend Knoxville as a getaway for solo travelers, couples, and all college football fans.

Thinking about visiting Knoxville but not sure? Check out:

101 fun things to do while spending the weekend in Knoxville, TN.

Franklin, Tennessee Near you in Nashville:

(Literally 30 minutes)

Franklin is a city located about 30 miles from Nashville. Franklin is known for its historic downtown area, which is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

There are also a number of historical sites in Franklin, such as the Carnton Plantation and the Franklin Battlefield.

Chances are if you live in Music City, you have been to Franklin TN at some point already. However if not, here is what the town of Franklin has to offer visitors.

Recommended for day trips, family, couples, and solo tourists.

Things to do while spending time in Franklin, TN:

Pickwick Lake, Tennessee close to Nashville:

(2.5 Hours by Car)

Pickwick Lake is a reservoir located about 137 miles from Nashville.

Pickwick Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.

This vacation destination is popular with couples, families, and nature lovers.

Top Weekend Road Trips from Nashville to North Carolina:

Asheville, North Carolina For the weekend:

(About 5 hours from Nashville)

This getaway is in the beautiful North Carolina mountains. Also noted this is the longest drive on today’s list. For those wondering if it’s worth the long drive? IT IS!

Asheville is known for its arts scene, craft breweries, and scenic beauty.

Ashville, North Carolina is a great place to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains and the nearby Biltmore Estate.

Recommended as a vacation destination for everyone, couples, solo, and family.

Best weekend trips from Nashville to Kentucky:

Are you looking for a quick getaway from Nashville? Kentucky is the perfect place to go. There are many great options for weekend trips in Kentucky. Kentucky is perfect for outdoor activities, historical sites, or just a relaxing weekend away from the city.

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky Popular Road trip:

(1.5 Hours)

Mammoth Cave National Park is located in south-central Kentucky. The park is home to the world’s longest cave system.

There are over 400 miles of caves to explore. Visitors can take guided tours or explore on their own.

Mammoth Cave National Park also has a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and horseback riding.

Vacation is wonderful for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers of all ages.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park: 

(4.5-hour drive)

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is on the border of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia.

This is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park also has a variety of historical sites, including the Cumberland Gap, which was once a major passage for settlers moving west.

I am recommending this getaway for nature lovers of all ages.

Louisville, Kentucky trip from Nashville:

(2.5 hours drive-time)

The city of Louisville is located on the Ohio River. Guests can enjoy a variety of attractions. Popular attractions include the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Muhammad Ali Center, and the Kentucky Derby Museum.

Louisville also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with museums, art galleries, and theaters.

My personal favorite place to go in Louisville, KY is the Churchhill Downs horse race track.

I recommend Louisville for couples, adults, and solo travelers.

Check out my previous post highlighting travels to Louisville, KY:

Lexington, Kentucky Weekend trip from Nashville:

(3.5 getaway time)

This destination is located in central Kentucky and is home to the University of Kentucky.

Lexington also has a variety of attractions, including the Kentucky Horse Park, the Lexington Opera House, and the Henry Clay Estate.

See Visit Lexington for detailed travel details.

Fun for visitors who are looking for relaxation and couples.

Frankfort, KY to travel from Nashville:

(Little over 3 hours away)

Frankfort is home to a variety of attractions, including the Kentucky State Capitol, the Old State Capitol, and the Kentucky Military History Museum.

Thinking about traveling to Frankford, Kentucky? Be sure to check out the local visitors’ website.

This travel blogger has not personally visited Frankfort, therefore I cannot provide any personal insight.

Top Weekend getaways from Nashville to Alabama:

Birmingham, Alabama from Nashville, TN:

(This city is located about 3 hours from Nashville)

The largest city in Alabama. There are plenty of museums, attractions, and activities, including the Birmingham Museum of Art, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and the McWane Science Center.

My personal favorite thing to do in Birmingham, Alabama is shopping. There are plenty of malls and upscale shops in the area.

Recommended Birmingham for couples and solo travels.

Huntsville, AL Family trip from Nashville:

(Just over 2 hours from Nashville)

Huntsville is home to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center and the historic Huntsville Depot Museum.

Huntsville is also a great place to explore the outdoors, with plenty of parks and trails nearby.

Huntsville brings families to the US Space and Rocket Center.

Therefore, I recommend Huntsville as a family trip.

These are just a few of the many great weekend trips you can take from Nashville.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a change of scenery, there’s something for everyone within a few hours’ drive of Music City.

Read More About a Huntsville, Al weekend vacation:

HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR WEEKEND GETAWAY From Nashville, TN:

• Pack for the weather. The Southern USA has a variety of climates, so it’s important to pack for the weather, even if you’re only traveling for a weekend.
• Bring your camera. You’ll want to bring your camera to capture all of the memories.
• Plan some activities. There are many great things to do in Tennessee, Alabama, Kentucky & North Carolina. Be sure to plan some activities for your weekend getaway in advance.
• Relax and enjoy your time away. The South is a great place to relax and enjoy your time away from the city.
• Book your accommodations in advance. The above-mentioned cities are all popular tourist destinations, so it’s important to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.