Weekend Trips Within Driving Distance of Nashville
Looking for quick weekend getaway within a few hours driving distance? We’ve got you covered. Check out the following recommendations for fun and adventure everyone can enjoy.
Chattanooga, TN
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga is a popular destination for a weekend getaway. Chattanooga offers a variety of entertainment the whole family can enjoy, full of hotels, restaurants, shopping venues, and attractions.
Venture over to the Chattanooga Zoo to experience over 500 animals exhibited, many of which are endangered species. Discover adventure at Ruby Falls, home to the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the US. Grab a drink at the Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery featuring over 100 different barrels of hand-crafted bourbon.
Huntsville, AL
Nicknamed “The Rocket City,” Huntsville is known for its space technology and rich history. Check out the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, home to one of the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia on display. Walk the gardens of Huntsville’s Botanical Garden, open year-round and home to the nation’s largest open-air butterfly house.
Florence, AL
Located in “the Shoals” area of Alabama, Florence is known for its architecture, charm, and musical influence. Enjoy a family picnic or stroll along the Tennessee River at McFarland Park. Visit the birthplace of Helen Keller and take a guided tour of her family homestead in Tuscumbia. Check out the historic downtown area, where you’ll find most of the buildings date from 1880-1920 when the area was part of an industrial boom. On your way out, stop by Trowbridge’s for ice cream.
Lexington, KY
Lexington is a vibrant city nestled in horse country. The city is home to the country’s top bourbon distilleries, including Woodford Reserve and Four Roses, each packing its own unique flavor and experience. Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine from County Club with mouthwatering barbecue. Tour some of Lexington’s historic homes, such as former first lady Mary Todd Lincoln’s. Place your bets at Keeneland Racecourse, committed to the tradition of thoroughbred horseracing.
Asheville, NC
Asheville has a little bit of everything to make your weekend stay memorable and fun. Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city is roughly four and a half hours from Nashville. It is commonly known as “Beer City United States” because of its many breweries. Asheville is famously home to the elegant Biltmore Estate. The 8,000-acre estate includes forested trails, beautiful gardens and the nation’s most-visited winery. Take in the scenery on one of the many trails. For stunning fall foliage, don’t miss out on Graveyard Loop, Sam Knob trails and Craggy Gardens. Of course, you can’t visit Asheville without trying the local craft beer. Check out Asheville Brewing, Zillicoah, Wicked Weed, or Twin Leaf.
Pigeon Forge, TN
Pigeon Forge is fun for all ages. Whether mini-golf, go-kart racing, musical performances, or outdoor adventure, this town is packed with entertainment. Open late March through early January, Dollywood is a must-see theme park attraction surrounded by breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Don’t miss out on a dinner show at Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, and Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show. Step back in time and visit the Titanic Museum, with over 22,000 square feet of educational history.
Mammoth Cave National Park, KY
Located about an hour and a half north of Nashville, Mammoth Cave National Park is an easy and enjoyable visit. The park is home to thousands of years of human history and a diverse population of plant and animal life.
Plan your visit with a guided cave tour, camping, hiking, canoeing, fishing, or horseback riding.