What you may not realize about Nashville is that it’s a huge crossroad for 3 major interstates crossing within a mile of each other. This makes Nashville a great hub for travel; plus, it’s easy to get out of town when you’re thinking about getting away!
Not only is Nashville a great city, but Tennessee is a great central state for travelers who want to make a short drive to experience something new. Here are a few locations we think you’ll love to check out.
#1) Louisville, KY
Distance from Nashville: about a 3-hour drive
Louisville is well known for it’s horses and brown liquor. The food scene is something to check out, and there is definitely no shortage of bourbon! Of course, if you plan your travel during May, you can witness the famed Kentucky Derby. The Louisville Mega Cavern is also a must-see, full of underground adventures – fun for the whole family! If you want to make your trip a quick one, Louisville runs on the Eastern time zone, so you can make an earlier dinner reservation and still be back home in Nashville for a proper night’s sleep.
#2) Memphis, TN
Distance from Nashville: about a 3.5 hour drive
Memphis at times gets a bad rap, but it has a rich culture to offer Tennessee. A true hub for music history, it is jam packed with historic music museums – from rock and roll, to blues, jazz, and soul. It is also the final resting place for the king of Rock and Roll; Elvis’ ranch house, Graceland is a huge attraction. Walk down Beale street and soak up more blue’s history. And don’t forget to try some Memphis style barbeque ribs at Rendezvous, after a visit to watch the ducks march at the famous Peabody Hotel!
#3) Chattanooga, TN
Distance form Nashville: about a 2 hour drive
Chattanooga has a lot to offer. Whether you’re looking to hike and get a breathtaking view at Lookout Mountain, or you’re wanting to visit the Tennessee aquarium, you won’t be bored in this southeastern city. Bring your walking shoes and camera—you’ll want to capture these family friendly memories!
#4) Atlanta, GA
Distance from Nashville: about a 3 hour 45 minute drive
Although Atlanta has a hot nightlife and bar scene, it also has great things to do during the day. The Atlanta Botanical Garden and Georgia Aquarium are a few family friendly fun things to do during the day. And, why not stay for a show? The historic Fox Theatre was recently restored to its original gilded look of the 1920s look. It hosts Broadway musicals, comedy shoes and dance companies throughout the year.
#5) Great Smoky Mountains, TN
Distance from Nashville: about a 3 hour 45 minute drive
Tennessee’s landscapes are one of it’s most attractive features, and the Great Smoky Mountains will give you one of the best views the state has to offer. Experience the adrenaline rush of white water rafting streaming through the mountains, or take to the skies on a hang glider or zip line and enjoy the view most people only ever dream of. Take the short drive and experience an extreme vacation at the Great Smoky Mountains!
