Alright, fellow travelers, today we’re going to explore some incredible cities that are just a roadtrip away from Nashville! Who needs to travel around the world when you can hit the open road and discover new places right here in the good ol’ USA?
Are you looking for some incredible cities to road trip to from Nashville? Look no further! Just a few hours away, you’ll find Memphis, Tennessee, where you can indulge in mouth-watering barbecue and immerse yourself in history at the National Civil Rights Museum. Atlanta, Georgia, is a bustling metropolis home to iconic attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
And finally, there’s Louisville, Kentucky, a charming city known for its bourbon and horse racing, where you can take a tour of Churchill Downs and visit the Muhammad Ali Center. So, pack your bags, hop in the car, and explore these fantastic destinations just a short drive from Nashville.
So there you have it, fellow travelers! Three incredible cities are just a few hours away from Nashville. All you need is a reliable car, some good company, and a sense of adventure to hit the road and explore new destinations. Happy travels!
Table of Contents
15 Roadtripable Cities from Nashville
Huntsville
Huntsville is a city with a unique charm that is hard to find anywhere else. The city is home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, a museum and space camp that immerses visitors in the history and technology of space travel. You can even try your hand at astronaut training simulations, which are an experience that you’ll never forget. Huntsville is also home to some of the best outdoor attractions in the region. Monte Sano State Park offers over 2,100 acres of land for hiking and camping, while the Botanical Garden provides visitors with a stunning display of nature’s beauty.
Bowling Green
If you’re a car enthusiast, then you simply must visit Bowling Green. The city is home to the National Corvette Museum, where you can see the history of the Corvette and the assembly plant that produces the vehicles. You can even go on a tour of the GM Corvette Assembly Plant and watch the cars being built in real time. Bowling Green is also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with attractions such as Lost River Cave, Mammoth Cave National Park, and the Green River Lake State Park.
Chattanooga
Nestled in the mountains of Tennessee, Chattanooga is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Lookout Mountain provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area, while Rock City is a natural rock formation that is a must-see attraction. The Incline Railway provides a unique experience as it takes visitors up and down the mountain. Chattanooga also offers many opportunities to learn about the region’s history, such as the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel.
Knoxville
Knoxville is a city that is full of culture and history. The historic Old City is a great place to start, with its array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The Tennessee Theatre is a beautiful example of the city’s rich history, with a 1920s-era grandeur that can’t be found anywhere else. The Knoxville Museum of Art offers visitors a chance to see some of the region’s most important artistic contributions.
Memphis
Memphis is a city with a rich musical history and is often referred to as the birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Elvis Presley’s Graceland mansion is a must-visit attraction for any music lover, while Sun Studio offers an intimate look at the recording studio that launched the careers of Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Memphis is also known for its BBQ, with some of the most famous BBQ restaurants in the world located right in the heart of the city.
Birmingham
Birmingham is a city with a rich Civil Rights history, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in learning more about this important era in American history. The city is also home to an array of delicious Southern cuisine, and you can’t leave without trying some of the famous BBQ. The Alabama Theatre is a beautiful example of the city’s rich history, with a grandeur that can’t be found anywhere else.
Atlanta
A city with a rich history and diverse culture, Atlanta is a must-visit destination. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, while the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of this important American figure. Atlanta also offers an array of dining and entertainment options, including the World of Coca-Cola, the CNN Center, and the Fox Theatre.
Louisville
Known for its horses, bourbon, and Southern charm, Louisville is a city that has something for everyone. Churchill Downs is a must-visit attraction, especially during the Kentucky Derby, while the Muhammad Ali Center offers a unique look into the life of the famous boxer. Bourbon lovers can tour some of the most famous distilleries in the world, such as Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Louisville Mega Cavern provides a unique underground adventure, while the Waterfront Park offers scenic views of the Ohio River.
Lexington
Lexington is a city with a rich equestrian history and is known as the “Horse Capital of the World.” Keeneland Race Course is a must-visit attraction, especially during the racing season, while the Kentucky Horse Park offers a glimpse into the world of horses and their history. The Mary Todd Lincoln House provides a glimpse into the life of the former First Lady, while the Lexington Opera House offers an array of entertainment options.
Indianapolis
Indianapolis is a city with a thriving art and culture scene, with attractions such as the Indianapolis Museum of Art and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. For sports fans, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the NCAA Hall of Champions are must-visit attractions. The Indianapolis Zoo provides a unique experience with its dolphin exhibit, while the White River State Park offers scenic views of the city.
Cincinnati
Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati is a city with a rich German heritage and is known for its chili and beer. The Cincinnati Zoo is a must-visit attraction, with its array of animals and exhibits. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center offers a glimpse into the history of the Underground Railroad, while the Cincinnati Art Museum provides visitors with a chance to see some of the region’s most important artistic contributions.
Montgomery
Montgomery is a city with a rich Civil Rights history and played a pivotal role in the movement. The Rosa Parks Museum and the Freedom Rides Museum offer a glimpse into this important era in American history. The Alabama State Capitol provides a glimpse into the state’s political history, while the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts offers visitors a chance to see some of the region’s most important artistic contributions.
St. Louis
St. Louis is a city with a unique charm and many iconic attractions. The Gateway Arch is a must-visit attraction, with its stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. The City Museum provides visitors with a unique experience, with its array of interactive exhibits and play areas. The Missouri Botanical Garden provides a stunning display of nature’s beauty, while the St. Louis Art Museum offers visitors a chance to see some of the region’s most important artistic contributions.
Asheville
Asheville is a city that is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Biltmore Estate is a must-visit attraction, with its stunning mansion and beautiful grounds. The North Carolina Arboretum provides a stunning display of nature’s beauty, while the Asheville Art Museum offers visitors a chance to see some of the region’s most important artistic contributions. The city is also known for its craft beer and food scene, with an array of breweries and restaurants to choose from.
Greenville, SC
Greenville is a city that is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Upstate.” The Falls Park on the Reedy provides visitors with stunning views of the city and a chance to see the famous Liberty Bridge. The Greenville Zoo is a must-visit attraction, with its array of animals and exhibits. The Peace Center for the Performing Arts offers an array of entertainment options, while the Swamp Rabbit Trail provides a scenic route for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also known for its dining and shopping options, with an array of restaurants and boutiques to choose from.
