The capital of the state of Tennessee, Nashville, is known as the Capital of Country Music and it offers many exciting things to do. It is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame, which is one of the largest museums in the US dedicated to American music. If you stroll the streets of Nashville, especially in the evening, you’ll hear live music playing from every restaurant, bar, and other establishments. But music isn’t the only thing that the city boasts; it is also where the world-famous Nashville Hot Chicken originated! Nashville also features a vast range of accommodations, from Airbnb tiny houses to famous hotels. Some notable attractions in the city include the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, Belle Meade Plantation, Parthenon in Centennial Park, and the Grand Ole Opry at Ryman Auditorium. But if you’ve already visited all these tourist attractions and more, perhaps it’s time to explore the romantic getaways near Nashville! If you think so, then definitely read on to find out the best weekend getaways from Nashville, Tennessee.
1. Cumberland (from USD 299.0)
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Tennessee, a short distance from Nashville. Explore the Cumberland Caverns, where you can marvel at rock formations wander through echoing corridors, and witness the breathtaking “Never Ending” Underground Waterfall. Above ground discover the awe-inspiring Fall Creek Falls, which stands proudly as the cascade in the East. Enhance your nature-filled getaway with a picnic amidst landscapes.
This retreat does not offer hikes and captivating views but also provides an opportunity to truly appreciate the astonishing beauty of nature—a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life that should definitely be, on your must-visit list.
Nashville Daytrip to Cumberland Caverns
Duration 9 hours
2. Lynchburg (from USD 149.0)
Step away from the every day and find solace in Lynchburg, Tennessee. More than the birthplace of Jack Daniel’s, Lynchburg brims with history and local charm. Meander its serene streets, discover one-of-a-kind shops and bask in the town’s warm ambiance. For enthusiasts, there’s a Jack Daniel’s distillery tour, seamlessly blending learning with leisure. A stone’s throw from Nashville, Lynchburg offers a refreshing retreat. Pack those comfortable shoes and set your sights on a memorable weekend in this enchanting locale.
From Nashville: Lynchburg Jack Daniel's Distillery Tour
Duration 7.0 hour
3. Memphis (from USD 38.0)
Memphis, a city situated near the Mississippi River in the southwestern region of Tennessee, stands out as one of the top vacation destinations near Nashville. It is the hometown of the music legends Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. Some of the most famous landmarks of the city are the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, National Civil Rights Museum, and the Belz Museum of Asian & Judaic Art. These tourist attractions can be great destinations for your next weekend road trip, not to mention that Memphis is just about 3 hours via a car from Nashville at 212 miles (around 341 kilometers).
Memphis Mojo Tour
Duration 90 to 180 minutes
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4. Franklin (from USD 101.0)
Franklin City, named after the former U.S. President Benjamin Franklin, serves as the administrative center of Williamson County and is the top choice for a quick trip from Nashville. It is a great destination to pick, especially if you’re not fond of a long drive because it will just take you less than 30 minutes to reach via a car. It is only 21.5 miles (about 35 kilometers) from the city of Nashville. It is home to Lotz Museum, Carnton Plantation, Timberland Park, and the Soar Adventure Tower.
Civil War Tour with Lotz House, Carter House & Carnton Admission from Nashville
Duration 7 hours
5. Huntsville
Huntsville is Madison County’s administrative center and is Alabama’s fourth-largest city. It is also known as the Rocket City for being home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, U.S. Space and Rocket Center, as well as the United States Army Aviation and Missile Command. Aside from being the rocket city, you should also visit its Huntsville Museum of Art, Huntsville Botanical Garden, and the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum. The city is 115 miles (around 186 kilometers) away from Nashville and is around a two-hour journey when you’re riding a car.
6. Gatlinburg (from USD 49.0)
If you’re in search of a vacation place that’s within a 4-hour drive or less from Nashville, look no further! Gatlinburg is a city located at the heart of Sevier County. The city is located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which means that going for a weekend vacation to Gatlinburg is a good idea if you want to experience nature in this area. Some of the wildlife you might see during your stay in this city are the white-tailed deers, black bears, coyotes, and other wild animals. The city’s most notable tourist attractions are the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, Gatlinburg Trail, Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster, and Hollywood Star Cars Museum. The city is a 3-4-hour car drive from Nashville at 221 miles (356 kilometers) in distance.
Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour
Duration 3 hours 30 minutes
7. Sewanee
Sewanee is home to the University of the South, a Census Designated Place situated in Franklin County, and is in the western part of the Cumberland Plateau. Though a university town, Sewanee is also famous for its hiking trails which make it a great place to spend your weekend communing with mother nature in this part of Tennesse. What’s more is that it is just about an hour and a half drive from Nashville as it is only 93 miles (about 150 kilometers) away. Some of the places that you should definitely visit here are the Natural Bridge, Greens View, Mountain Goat Trail, and the Lemon Fair.
8. Chattanooga (from USD 34.0)
Chattanooga is located in the southeastern parts of Tennessee. It is the administrative center of Hamilton County, and it has been dubbed as the Scenic City because of its rich natural sights and wonders, making it a great weekend destination, especially to people who prefer seeing panoramic views. Some of the places that you should definitely visit when going to Chattanooga are the Rock City, North Shore, Coolidge Park, and Sunset Rock. Chattanooga is 133 miles (about 214 kilometers) away from Nashville, which can be reached in 2-3 hours via a car ride.
Chattanooga Southern Belle Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise
Duration 1 hour 30 minutes
9. Knoxville (from USD 83.0)
Knoxville is the third-largest city in the state of Tennessee and is also considered the county seat of Knox County. It is home to some of the largest underwear manufacturing companies, which gave the city its nickname: the “Underwear Capital of The World.” Some of the places worth visiting in Knoxville are the World’s Fair Park, Tennesee Theater, Bijou Theater, and the Neyland Stadium. Knoxville is 180 miles (around 290 kilometers) away from Nashville and can be reached via a car in about 2-3 hours.
Chef's Table Tour in Downtown Knoxville
Duration 3 hours
10. St Louis, Missouri (from USD 76.0)
The independent city of St Louis, in Missouri, is located at the western bank of the famous Mississippi River. Some of the most famous highlights of the city are the Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri History Museum, Grant’s Farm, and the Cathedral Basilica. Some of the activities that you will enjoy here are beer-drinking (there is a Budweiser brewery in St. Louis!), chess matches at the World Chess Hall of Fame, and candle-making at Fusion. St Louis, Missouri is a good 4-5-hour drive from Nashville at 309 miles (around 498 kilometers) in distance.
Zip Line Canopy Tour in St Louis
Duration 1 hour 30 minutes
11. Cincinnati, Ohio (from USD 133.0)
Cincinnati is a major city in Ohio, famous for its own version of the German dish goetta. So, if you wanna grab a serving of the city’s most famous dish, then definitely buckle up and get ready for a good 4-5-hour car drive from Nashville to Cincinnati! While you’re in Cincinnati, maybe pay a visit to its tourist attractions, such as the Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, Fountain Square, and Krohn Conservatory. The city’s distance from Nashville is 272 miles (around 438 kilometers).
Cincinnati Sightseeing, Beer & Food Tasting Tour with a Local Guide
Duration 6 hours 30 minutes
12. Louisville, Kentucky (from USD 154.0)
Louisville is the largest city of Kentucky, and it ranks as the 29th most populated city in the US. It is where the boxing icon Muhammad Ali hailed from. It is also home to several interesting places that you can visit over the weekend, such as the Actors Theatre of Louisville, Frazier History Museum, Churchill Downs, Historic Locust Grove, and Big Four Bridge. Louisville is about 175 miles (about 282 kilometers) from the city of Nashville and can be reached in about 3-4 hours via a car ride.
WoodFord & Buffalo Trace (+19.90 Four Roses or Wild turkey)
Duration 8 hours
Explore your neighboring towns!
No doubt, Nashville is a great city. It offers not only great music scenes but also dining scenes, including seafood restaurants and vegetarian restaurants. However, too much of something can make it seem mundane. Thankfully, you have the ability to explore its neighboring cities! If you agree, start your exploration with these road trips from Nashville, Tennessee!