Tennessee Road Trip Itinerary
Begin your Tennessee Road Trip in Nashville, the state capital and Music City USA. From there, head east to Knoxville, the third largest city in the state. Visit the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, the Knoxville Zoo, and the iconic Sunsphere Tower. Then, continue your journey to Cherokee, a small mountain town known for its outdoor activities. From there, make your way to Chattanooga, and explore its many attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium, Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, and the Creative Discovery Museum. End your trip back in Nashville.
This 942 km journey can be completed in 7 days, but you can take your time and stretch it out over more days. The best time to drive this route is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the roads are in good condition. This Tennessee Road Trip is suitable for drivers of all levels and can be managed on a moderate budget. So why not take a road trip to explore the beauty and culture of Tennessee?
7
number of days
942 km
route length
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budget
family
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on the right
traffic direction
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accident level
START
Nashville
Distance 942 km
Driving time 12.7 h
Pace: fast
282.5 kWh
Airports
BNA
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Nashville, Tennessee is an ideal starting point for the Tennessee Road Trip. Situated in the heart of the state, Nashville provides a great base from which to explore the other cities, towns, and attractions that make Tennessee so special. Nashville International Airport (IATA code: BNA) is the closest international airport, with car rental facilities available.
A visit to Nashville would not be complete without a trip to the Grand Ole Opry, the world-famous home of country music. Music lovers can also take in a performance at the historic Ryman Auditorium, once home to the Grand Ole Opry. The Country Music Hall of Fame is also worth a visit, and if you're looking for a bit of history, then a trip to the Tennessee State Capitol is a must.
For a more leisurely experience, take a stroll along the banks of the Cumberland River, or take a walk through the city's downtown area, where you'll find many of Nashville's famous landmarks, including the Parthenon. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
For those looking for a bit of nature, there are plenty of options, from walking and cycling trails through the city's parks, to nearby state parks such as Radnor Lake. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to be enjoyed, from fishing and boating on the Cumberland River to horseback riding and golf.
Nashville is a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the state of Tennessee. From music to nature, the city has something for everyone and is sure to provide visitors with a memorable experience.
1
Nashville
- Knoxville
Distance 290 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
87.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip through two of the most iconic cities in the United States? Nashville and Knoxville are only 180 miles apart and the drive takes less than 4 hours.
Start your journey in Nashville, the home of country music, and visit the iconic Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the famous Ryman Auditorium and the Johnny Cash Museum.
Continue your trip to Knoxville, a city full of history, and visit the World’s Fair Park, the University of Tennessee, the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame and the Knoxville Zoo.
Along the route, take some time to explore the historical sites and the breathtaking views of the countryside.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Knoxville - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Knoxville - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Knoxville
- Gatlinburg
Distance 70 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: modest
18.2 kWh
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Are you ready for a memorable road trip? Starting in Knoxville, United States, you will be travelling 44 miles to reach Gatlinburg in less than two hours. Along the way, you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in the area.
In Knoxville, you can admire the beautiful architecture of the Tennessee Theatre, visit the Knoxville Zoo, and take a stroll along the riverfront. In Gatlinburg, you can explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, take a ride on the Aerial Tramway, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the Gatlinburg Space Needle.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and enjoy this unforgettable road trip!
Gatlinburg - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Gatlinburg
- Great Smoky Mountains N.P.
- Cherokee
Distance 57 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
14.9 kWh
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Get ready for an exciting road trip starting in Gatlinburg, United States! You will be taking a 36 mile journey that will take you less than an hour to get to your destination, Cherokee. Along the way, you will be passing through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most beautiful and captivating places in the world.
Take a break at Clingmans Dome to admire the breathtaking views of the Smokies. This is the highest point in the park and the views from the observation tower are simply breathtaking. Then, you can explore the Newfound Gap, where you can find a wide variety of wildlife. And don't forget to take a stroll along the trails at Cades Cove where you can find a variety of flora and fauna.
Finally, you will reach Cherokee and you can visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the Cherokee people. You can also take a tour of the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, where you can explore the artifacts and exhibits.
For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cherokee - United States - North America - Road Trip - Pikist
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4
Cherokee
- Cherokee
- Tellico Plains
Distance 150 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
45.0 kWh
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Welcome to your next road trip stage! Starting in Cherokee, United States, you will drive through the beautiful Smoky Mountains, passing through the Nantahala National Forest. As you drive through Cherokee, make sure to visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, where you can learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people. Then, take a break at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, where you can enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Afterward, you will reach Tellico Plains, where you can explore the Cherokee National Forest and the Bald River Gorge.
This 93-mile journey will take you fewer than 3 hours and will provide you with some of the most stunning sights in the region. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!
Tellico Plains - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Tellico Plains
- Chattanooga
Distance 120 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: fast
36.1 kWh
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Welcome to the Tellico Plains to Chattanooga stage of your road trip! This stage is only 75 miles and takes less than two hours to complete.
Start your journey in Tellico Plains and explore the beautiful Cherokee National Forest. You can go canoeing, fishing, and camping in the forest, as well as visiting the historic Bald River Falls.
Next, drive to the charming city of Madisonville. Here you can visit the historic Monroe County Courthouse, the Madisonville Historic District, and the Monroe County Museum.
Continue your journey to Chattanooga. This city is known for its vibrant art and music scene. Visit the Hunter Museum of American Art, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the Creative Discovery Museum. You can also take a stroll along the Riverwalk and explore the Tennessee Riverpark.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a wonderful journey!
Chattanooga - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Chattanooga
- Nashville
Distance 254 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: fast
76.1 kWh
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Are you ready for the ultimate road trip from Chattanooga to Nashville? This 158 mile drive will take you fewer than 4 hours, so you can make the most of your time! On your way, you'll get to explore some of the best historical sites in the area.
In Chattanooga, visit the Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee Aquarium. Lookout Mountain is home to the famous Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway. The Tennessee Aquarium is a must-see, with its two buildings filled with aquatic life from around the world.
As you make your way to Nashville, you'll also get to visit the Jack Daniel Distillery in Lynchburg. This is the oldest registered distillery in the United States and a great place to learn about the history of Tennessee whiskey.
In Nashville, you'll find plenty of attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Parthenon, and the Grand Ole Opry. You can also visit the Ryman Auditorium, known as the Mother Church of Country Music.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Chattanooga to Nashville!
Nashville
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Nashville, Tennessee is the perfect ending point for your Tennessee Road Trip. With its vibrant music scene, world-class attractions, and a variety of outdoor activities, it has something for everyone.
Start your exploration with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, located in downtown Nashville. Here, you can learn about the history of country music and see artifacts and memorabilia from some of the genre’s most beloved artists. Then, take a stroll along the banks of the Cumberland River and take in the city skyline.
For a unique experience, visit the Grand Ole Opry, where you can witness live performances from some of the biggest names in country music. If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, head to Radnor Lake and take in the peaceful natural beauty of the area. You can also take a short drive to the Natchez Trace Parkway and explore the scenic countryside.
No trip to Nashville is complete without sampling some of the city’s famous southern cuisine. From classic comfort food to upscale dining, there’s something to satisfy every appetite.
The closest international airport to Nashville is Nashville International Airport (BNA). So, if you’re planning to fly, you’re just a short drive away from all that the city has to offer.
No matter what brings you to Nashville, you’re sure to have a great time. With its unique sights and sounds, it’s the perfect destination to end your Tennessee Road Trip.
Tennessee Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Nashville
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End:
Nashville
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Distance:
942 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Nashville International Airport (BNA)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating Tennessee Road Trip that kicks off in Nashville, the heart of music history and culture, and winds through to Knoxville, immersing you in the region's heritage before leading you into the scenic mountain town of Cherokee. Conclude your adventure in the picturesque city of Chattanooga. This journey covers an impressive 942 km (585 miles) and is typically enjoyed over a 7-day itinerary, though you may opt to extend your exploration for a more relaxed experience.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Nashville: Delve into the world of country, blues, and rock music at iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Nashville is also home to the historic Ryman Auditorium and the vibrant BRoadway Street lined with live music bars.
- Knoxville: Explore the cultural landmarks such as the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, celebrating the achievements of female athletes. Don't miss the Knoxville Zoo for a family-friendly day out, and the Sunsphere Tower, which offers panoramic views and was built for the 1982 World's Fair.
- Cherokee: Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Cherokee is a haven for hiking, fishing, and learning about Native American history, specifically the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Outdoor enthusiasts can also visit the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Chattanooga: Known for its stunning riverfront and mountainous backdrop, Chattanooga boasts attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world. The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway provides breathtaking views, and the Creative Discovery Museum is perfect for engaging young minds.
Best Time to Go:
Spring and fall are the prime seasons for this Road Trip, with springtime blossoms and autumnal foliage providing a stunning backdrop. These periods also offer pleasant temperatures and fewer weather-related travel disruptions.
Potential Risks:
Travelers generally find this route safe, but it's wise to be cautious of occasional inclement weather, particularly in the mountainous regions, and the increased traffic during holiday weekends and popular events.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Nashville's music scene extends beyond country, with the city also being dubbed `Music City` for its influence in various music genres.
- The Great Smoky Mountains near Cherokee are part of the Appalachian Trail and are UNESCO World Heritage-listed.
- Chattanooga's Lookout Mountain was a significant battle site during the American Civil War and now hosts historical parks such as Point Park.
A good choice for:
Designed for those who seek adventure and cultural richness, the Tennessee Road Trip is a remarkable journey through the vibrant music capital, heritage-rich Knoxville, the serene mountain town of Cherokee, and the eclectic charm of Chattanooga. This Trip is a tribute to Tennessee's diverse culture, history, and stunning natural landscapes.
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