Best Weekend Trips in Tennessee 2025

Tennessee sits at the heart of the Southeast, which makes it a fantastic launchpad for quick escapes. In just a few hours, you can swap city lights for misty mountains, jump from riverfront strolls to music-filled streets, or spend a lazy afternoon tasting whiskey and wine in rolling countryside. Whether you start from Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, or Chattanooga, you’ll find a weekend trip that fits your budget, timeline, and travel style.

In this guide, you’ll get practical planning advice, seasonal tips, and curated recommendations by trip type—romantic, family-friendly, adventure-forward, cultural and historical, plus food and wine. You’ll also discover how to get around efficiently, what to book in advance, and which passes or gear can help you save money and time. Let’s map out your next great weekend in Tennessee.

---

Why Take Weekend Trips from Tennessee?

Weekend trips deliver big rewards with minimal stress. You reset your routine, soak up new scenery, and return motivated. Because Tennessee’s major cities sit along well-connected interstates and host busy airports, you can pivot fast, even on a Friday afternoon.

Here’s why Tennessee shines for short getaways:

• Central location: Interstates I-40, I-65, I-24, and I-75 put mountains, rivers, and small towns within 1–4 hours of most residents.
• Seamless connections: Airports in Nashville (BNA), Memphis (MEM), Knoxville (TYS), and Chattanooga (CHA) offer frequent flights. Bus services (FlixBus, Greyhound) and regional shuttles add options. Amtrak’s City of New Orleans route serves Memphis for a rail-forward escape.
• Trip variety: From the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Dollywood, from Memphis barbecue to the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, you can tailor every weekend to a different mood.

Short getaways also reduce costs. Two nights of lodging, a few memorable meals, and a handful of activities land within a realistic budget, especially if you travel off-peak and book early. Most importantly, weekend trips keep adventure within reach. You don’t need weeks—just a good plan and a tank of gas.

---

How to Plan a Weekend Trip from Tennessee

A smooth weekend hinges on timing and smart logistics. Use these quick steps to get more out of 48–72 hours.

Best seasons or times to travel

• Spring (March–May): Wildflowers in the Smokies, comfortable temps for hikes, baseball season in full swing, and fewer crowds early in the season. Expect some rain; pack a light shell.
• Summer (June–August): Festival season and lake life thrive. Nashville and Memphis host outdoor concerts and markets. Book early for Dollywood and water parks. Start outdoor adventures early to beat the heat.
• Fall (September–November): Peak foliage across the Cumberland Plateau and Great Smoky Mountains. Weekend demand spikes—reserve cabins and scenic rail rides at least 4–6 weeks ahead.
• Winter (December–February): Cozy cabin stays, fewer crowds at museums, and off-season deals. Ober Mountain and nearby resorts offer skiing and snow tubing when weather cooperates.

Transport options

• Car: The most flexible choice. Major hubs connect quickly—Nashville to Chattanooga in about 2 hours, Nashville to Memphis in about 3 hours, and Knoxville to Gatlinburg in about 1 hour.
• Train: Amtrak serves Memphis on the City of New Orleans line. It’s a relaxed way to pair a rail journey with a music-and-food weekend.
• Bus: FlixBus and Greyhound run routes between major cities. Look for promo fares and late departures to maximize time.
• Flights: For quick city-to-city hops, check Southwest and other carriers for competitive fares between BNA, MEM, TYS, and CHA.

Budget and planning tips

• Set your theme early: Decide if this weekend centers on hiking, museums, or food. Your theme will trim decision time and help you cluster activities.
• Lock lodging first: Prices climb closer to check-in day, especially near the Smokies and during festival weekends. Use a trusted hotel booking platform or official state park cabin reservations to secure the best location.
• Bundle attractions: Search for city sightseeing passes (e.g., Nashville Sightseeing Pass), combo tickets at Dollywood, or museum bundles in Memphis. These often include skip-the-line entry.
• Book dining with demand: Reserve prime-time dinners in Nashville’s Gulch or Memphis’s Midtown; walk-ins can work for lunch.
• Save on parking: In the Smokies, buy the required daily or weekly parking tag ahead of time. In cities, consider public transit, rideshare, or centrally located hotels to reduce parking fees.
• Pick one splurge: A scenic helicopter ride over the Smokies, a chef’s tasting menu, or a riverboat dinner cruise gives your weekend a standout moment without breaking the bank.

Packing essentials (with useful add-ons)

• Daypack, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, and a light rain shell.
• Layered clothing for mountain microclimates; wool socks for hikes.
• SUN protection: hat, sunglasses, broad-spectrum sunscreen.
• Footwear: broken-in hiking shoes for trails; comfortable sneakers for cities.
• Tech: portable power bank and car charger.
• Convenience: packing cubes and a foldable cooler for road-trip picnics.
• Optional but handy:
  • Lightweight trekking poles for waterfall and ridge hikes.
  • National park parking tag pre-purchase for Great Smoky Mountains.
  • Attraction passes (Dollywood combo tickets, Nashville Sightseeing Pass) for savings and fast entry.
  • Travel insurance for pre-paid cabins or seasonal weather risks.

---

Best Weekend Trips in Tennessee by Category

Romantic Weekend Trips

Chattanooga: Riverfront Romance with Mountain Views

Chattanooga brings a walkable waterfront, art-filled neighborhoods, and easy access to Lookout Mountain, which sets the stage for a relaxed yet scenic couple’s escape.

• What to do:
  • Stroll the Walnut Street Bridge at sunset and linger in Coolidge Park.
  • Ride the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, then explore Point Park or Rock City’s trails and overlooks.
  • Book a riverboat dinner cruise for city views after dark.
  • Browse the Hunter Museum of American Art and the nearby Bluff View Arts District for coffee and sculpture gardens.
• Travel time: About 2 hours from Nashville via I-24; roughly 2 hours from Knoxville via I-75.
• Where to stay:
  • Boutique hotels downtown place you within walking distance of restaurants and the Tennessee Aquarium.
  • Consider a riverside room for balcony sunsets.
  • For a unique stay, look for converted railcar suites or chic inns on the Southside.
• Dining and drinks:
  • Pair farm-to-table dinners with craft cocktails along Station Street.
  • Sample local pours at Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery.
• Practical tips:
  • Reserve timed entries for popular attractions on peak weekends.
  • Use a city parking garage and explore on foot or via electric shuttle.
• Our recommendations:
  • Book early on a trusted hotel platform for best rates near the aquarium.
  • Add a Chattanooga attractions bundle if you plan to visit multiple sites.

Sewanee & Monteagle: Cozy Plateau Hideaway

Perched on the South Cumberland Plateau, the Sewanee–Monteagle area offers forested bluffs, quiet inns, and trail-filled state parks—perfect for couples who want romance with a side of fresh air.

• What to do:
  • Hike Sewanee’s Perimeter Trail for overlooks like Morgan’s Steep.
  • Visit South Cumberland State Park for the Fiery Gizzard and Savage Gulf areas, with suspension bridges, rock shelters, and waterfalls.
  • Browse the University of the South campus and its Gothic architecture.
  • Unwind with sunset views at Green’s View and a relaxed dinner afterward.
• Travel time: Around 1.5 hours from Nashville, 1 hour from Chattanooga.
• Where to stay:
  • Charming inns in Sewanee or Monteagle put you close to trailheads.
  • State park cabins provide privacy and starry skies; book months ahead for fall.
• Dining and drinks:
  • Seek out Southern comfort food, then end the night with a glass of wine fireside.
• Practical tips:
  • Trails can be rocky—use trekking poles and carry a headlamp if you stay out for sunset.
  • Start hikes early in summer to stay cool.
• Our recommendations:
  • Reserve Tennessee State Parks cabins online for guaranteed proximity to trails.
  • Consider performance daypacks and packable jackets for shoulder-season hikes.

---

Family-Friendly Weekend Trips

Pigeon Forge & Dollywood: Rides, Shows, and Smoky Mountain Scenery

Pigeon Forge blends classic family attractions with live entertainment and easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dollywood anchors the fun with coasters, kid-friendly zones, and seasonal festivals.

• What to do:
  • Spend one full day at Dollywood; add Splash Country in summer.
  • Drive into the Smokies for a scenic loop on Cades Cove or a short family hike to Laurel Falls.
  • Catch a dinner theater show or visit interactive museums along the Parkway.
• Travel time: About 45 minutes from Knoxville; roughly 3.5 hours from Nashville via I-40.
• Where to stay:
  • Family suites near the Parkway offer pools and breakfast.
  • Dollywood’s resorts provide early park entry and shuttle service, which saves time with kids.
  • Consider a cabin with a game room and hot tub for multi-family trips.
• Dining and treats:
  • Inside Dollywood, don’t miss the cinnamon bread. Outside, try classic pancake houses and barbecue.
• Practical tips:
  • Arrive at Dollywood before opening, head to the back of the park first, and use a ride planner in the app.
  • Buy the Smokies parking tag online; it’s required for stopping in the park.
• Our recommendations:
  • Look for Dollywood combo tickets and family hotel deals on reliable booking sites.
  • Pack collapsible water bottles, stroller-friendly daypacks, and portable chargers.

Memphis: Music, Museums, and the Mighty Mississippi

Memphis brings hands-on learning and legendary music to a compact riverfront weekend. The mix of history and treats keeps kids engaged.

• What to do:
  • Visit the Memphis Zoo or the Children’s Museum of Memphis for interactive exhibits.
  • Tour Graceland for Elvis lore; choose an audio guide for kid-friendly pacing.
  • Explore the National Civil Rights Museum for powerful storytelling and age-appropriate discussions.
  • Catch the Peabody Ducks march and walk Tom Lee Park at sunset.
• Travel time: Around 3 hours from Nashville via I-40; 5 hours from Knoxville.
• Where to stay:
  • Riverfront hotels or South Main boutique properties provide easy walks to museums and trolley lines.
• Dining and treats:
  • Sample ribs, pulled pork, and banana pudding at classic barbecue joints. Add Central BBQ or Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous to your list.
• Practical tips:
  • Pre-book Graceland time slots.
  • Use the trolley to cut down on parking costs and maximize energy for attractions.
• Our recommendations:
  • Bundle museum tickets where available and compare riverfront hotel prices in advance.
  • Consider a family travel insurance plan for pre-paid tours during peak season.

---

Adventure & Outdoor Trips

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Waterfalls and Ridgetop Vistas

America’s most visited national park packs massive biodiversity, tumbling waterfalls, and miles of trails into a short drive from many Tennessee cities.

• What to do:
  • Hike Alum Cave or Andrews Bald for views without an all-day commitment.
  • Chase waterfalls at Ramsey Cascades (longer, challenging) or Grotto Falls (moderate).
  • Cruise Newfound Gap Road and stop at overlooks; bring picnic supplies for scenic pullouts.
• Travel time: About 1 hour from Knoxville; 4 hours from Nashville.
• Where to stay:
  • Gatlinburg and Townsend offer a range of hotels and cabins. Townsend stays quieter if you prefer less bustle.
  • Book well ahead for fall foliage weekends.
• Gear and safety:
  • Pack a map or download offline trail maps—cell service varies.
  • Carry layers, headlamps, and extra water.
• Practical tips:
  • Purchase the required parking tag (daily, weekly, or annual) before you arrive.
  • Start early to avoid crowds on popular trails.
• Our recommendations:
  • State park and national park-friendly daypacks, trekking poles, and hydration bladders add comfort on moderate hikes.
  • Compare cabin rentals with flexible cancellation policies for weather-based pivots.

Ocoee River & Hiwassee: Whitewater and Wooded Escapes

The Ocoee hosted the 1996 Olympic whitewater events, and you can still ride those waves today. The nearby Hiwassee offers a gentler float for mixed-level groups.

• What to do:
  • Book a guided Ocoee whitewater trip for adrenaline-pumping rapids.
  • Choose the Hiwassee for tubing or rafting with younger kids.
  • Add short hikes in the Cherokee National Forest; try Benton Falls for a moderate waterfall walk.
• Travel time: Roughly 1 hour from Chattanooga; 3 hours from Nashville.
• Where to stay:
  • Rustic cabins and riverside lodges cluster around the Ocoee corridor.
  • Campgrounds and state park cabins fill up on summer weekends—reserve early.
• Gear and safety:
  • Water shoes with traction, quick-dry clothing, and a change of layers for after your run.
  • Guided trips provide helmets and PFDs, but verify what’s included.
• Our recommendations:
  • Reserve rafting packages and cabins via reputable outfitters.
  • Pick up dry bags and compact towels to keep gear tidy in the car.

---

Cultural & Historical Trips

Nashville: Music City’s Soundtrack and Stories

Nashville’s museums, studios, and stages create a deep dive into American music and Southern culture, all wrapped in a vibrant dining scene.

• What to do:
  • Tour the Country Music Hall of Fame, RCA Studio B, and the Ryman Auditorium.
  • Explore the National Museum of African American Music for a sweeping timeline of genres.
  • Walk historic Germantown and 12South for boutiques and murals.
• Travel time: Central hub for many Tennesseans; easy flight access via BNA.
• Where to stay:
  • Downtown or SoBro hotels put you near top attractions and the riverfront.
  • The Gulch offers upscale stays with rooftop bars.
• Dining and nightlife:
  • Mix classic meat-and-three lunches with modern Southern restaurants.
  • Catch live sets at small venues on the East Side or mid-size clubs in Midtown.
• Practical tips:
  • Book studio and Ryman tours ahead, especially on weekends.
  • Consider a sightseeing pass if you plan multiple museum entries.
• Our recommendations:
  • Compare downtown hotel rates early; add a skip-the-line tour or evening show package to streamline your schedule.

Franklin & Leiper’s Fork: Civil War Sites and Small-Town Charm

Just south of Nashville, Franklin pairs poignant Civil War history with a walkable Main Street and a countryside dotted with galleries and farm stands.

• What to do:
  • Tour Carnton, Carter House, and Lotz House to understand the Battle of Franklin’s impact.
  • Stroll Main Street for antiques, indie shops, and coffee.
  • Detour to Leiper’s Fork for art galleries, live pickin’ sessions, and pastoral drives.
• Travel time: 30–45 minutes from Nashville.
• Where to stay:
  • Historic inns in downtown Franklin or boutique cottages in Leiper’s Fork deliver cozy character.
• Dining and drinks:
  • Try elevated Southern fare downtown and cap the evening with whiskey tastings.
• Practical tips:
  • Bundle house tour tickets for savings.
  • Visit early on weekends for easier parking on Main Street.
• Our recommendations:
  • Book historic inn rooms well ahead of festival dates.
  • Consider a guided Civil War walking tour to deepen context.

---

Food & Wine Trips

Arrington Vineyards & Williamson County: Wine, Picnics, and Rolling Hills

Set among vineyard rows and horse farms south of Nashville, Arrington Vineyards invites leisurely tastings, sunset picnics, and live music on fair-weather weekends.

• What to do:
  • Reserve a tasting flight and bring a picnic blanket for the lawn.
  • Pair the vineyard visit with a drive through Nolensville and College Grove for small-town stops.
  • Add the Tennessee Whiskey Trail to your weekend with a nearby distillery visit.
• Travel time: About 40 minutes from Nashville.
• Where to stay:
  • Base in Franklin for boutique hotels and quick access to dining.
• Dining:
  • Choose farm-to-table spots in Franklin or elevated barbecue on the way back to town.
• Practical tips:
  • Check the vineyard’s event calendar and live music schedule.
  • Designate a driver or use rideshare; rural roads can be dark after sunset.
• Our recommendations:
  • Bring a collapsible picnic basket and insulated tote for cheeses and charcuterie.
  • Use a trusted platform to secure a Franklin hotel near Main Street for dinner plans.

Memphis Barbecue & Distillery Trail: Smoke, Soul, and Sips

Memphis serves iconic barbecue styles, from dry-rub ribs to pulled pork sandwiches, plus an evolving cocktail and distillery scene.

• What to do:
  • Plan a tasting crawl across neighborhoods: Downtown, Midtown, and East Memphis.
  • Tour Old Dominick Distillery for a look at Memphis-made spirits.
  • Add a food history tour to get stories behind the pitmasters.
• Travel time: Central for West Tennessee; about 3 hours from Nashville.
• Where to stay:
  • Choose a downtown hotel to walk to restaurants and the riverfront.
• Practical tips:
  • Pace your tastings. Share plates to sample more spots.
  • Aim for early dinners on weekends to avoid long waits.
• Our recommendations:
  • Book a guided barbecue tour to cover more ground without parking stress.
  • Pick up a compact cooler for leftovers and a travel-size stain remover—sauce happens.

---

Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Tennessee

A strong plan helps you squeeze the most joy into a short window. Use these final tips to elevate any Tennessee weekend.

Booking advice

• Reserve lodging 3–6 weeks in advance for spring and fall weekends. For peak foliage or Dollywood festivals, extend that to 8–12 weeks.
• Lock in hard-to-get experiences—studio tours, distillery tastings, or river cruises—right after you book the hotel.
• Compare flexible cancellation policies so you can pivot if weather changes.
• Scan for attraction bundles or passes; they often include skip-the-line options and audio guides.

Safety and accessibility tips

• Mountains and waterfalls demand traction and awareness. Wear proper footwear, carry a small first-aid kit, and watch for slick rocks.
• Summer storms move fast. Keep a rain shell in your daypack and check radar before ridge hikes.
• In cities, park in well-lit garages and use your hotel as a hub for walking or rideshare.
• Many museums and major attractions provide accessible entrances and device-aided tours—confirm details in advance for smooth access.

How to maximize a 2–3 day trip

• Build a simple framework:
  • Day 1 afternoon/evening: Arrive, one key attraction, then a memorable dinner.
  • Day 2 morning: Headline experience when crowds are lowest.
  • Day 2 afternoon: Secondary sights or a scenic drive.
  • Day 2 evening: Live music, river cruise, or tasting room.
  • Day 3 morning: A short hike, brunch, or a museum, then hit the road before peak traffic.
• Cluster activities by neighborhood or region. You’ll spend less time commuting and more time enjoying.
• Choose one splurge and one freebie. For example, pair a guided whitewater trip with a free overlook hike, or book a tasting menu alongside a complimentary gallery stroll.
• Pack smart and light. If everything fits in a carry-on duffel with packing cubes, you’ll move faster and avoid baggage fees on short flights.

Before you go, check weather, road conditions, and event calendars. Tennessee’s weekends fill up fast, but with a clear theme and a few advance reservations, you’ll slide right into your escape—no stress, just good stories waiting to happen.

---

Frequently Asked Questions