Feeling the itch to get out of Nashville for a bit? Whether you’re a mom managing munchkins or a nanny corralling kiddos, these Must-Visit Day Trips from Nashville are perfect for a change of scenery. These spots are not only a short drive away but are also packed with fun activities that’ll make the day fly by. So, grab your adventure hats (and maybe some snacks), crank up your favorite tunes, and let's hit the road!
1. Chattanooga
Why Go? If you’re looking for day trips from Nashville, Chattanooga is just a couple of hours away and totally worth the trip! Start at the Tennessee Aquarium, where the kids will love watching the penguins play and those cool jellyfish that glow in the dark. After that, head over to the Creative Discovery Museum—it’s packed with hands-on fun like digging for dinosaur bones and splashing around at the water tables. It’s one of those places where the kids will stay curious and entertained all day long.
Prices: Tennessee Aquarium: $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for children. Creative Discovery Museum: $19.95 per person.
Pit Stop: Monteagle, Tennessee is a good halfway point for a stop.
Stroller Friendly? Definitely! Chattanooga is known for being easy to navigate with a stroller.
Lunch Spots: Refuel with these family-friendly options, all conveniently located near the heart of Chattanooga’s kid-friendly attractions:
- The Big Chill and Grill: Dive into a menu full of kid-friendly favorites in a laid-back setting.
- Lupi’s Pizza Pies: Who doesn’t love pizza? Grab a slice or a whole pie at Lupi’s, where the dough is fresh, and the toppings are plentiful.
- Clumpies Ice Cream Co.: No day out is complete without ice cream! Clumpies offers a sweet array of flavors that’ll put a smile on everyone’s face, perfect for a post-lunch treat.
2. Land Between the Lakes
Drive Time: About 1.5 hours
Why Go? Round up the kiddos and head to Land Between the Lakes for a day full of outdoor fun. You’ll love exploring the wide-open spaces and forests, where you might even catch a glimpse of elk or bison roaming around—how awesome is that? The Nature Station is a great spot to get up close with some cool animals, and the Planetarium is perfect for a bit of stargazing. It’s a fantastic place for both the little ones and us big kids to enjoy some time in nature and make some great memories together.
Prices: Entry to the park is free, but some activities and attractions may have fees, generally ranging from $5 to $15 per person.
Pit Stop: Need to stretch those little legs? The Murray Rest Area is your halfway point. It's clean, safe, and just right for a quick stretch or a diaper change
Stroller Friendly? Mostly, especially around the visitor centers and shorter trails.
Lunch Spots: Pack a picnic to savor in one of the many picturesque areas Looking for more? Here are your best bets:
- Golden Pond Visitor Center Café: Quick, easy, and right where you are.
- The Woodshed Restaurant : Dive into locally sourced, kid-friendly dishes.
- Lake Barkley State Resort Park Restaurant: Enjoy delicious meals with lake views to keep the vibe serene and satisfying.
3. Mammoth Cave National Park
Drive Time: About 1.5 hours
Why Go? Ready to adventure into the deepest, darkest, and oh-so-mystical corners of the earth? Mammoth Cave National Park ranks high among the best day trips from Nashville. With the world’s longest cave system right beneath your feet, there’s endless underground exploring to do. But hey, there's plenty above ground too! Grab a paddle for some river fun or hit the trails with the kiddos for a scenic hike. It’s an all-around blast for both the little explorers and the grown-ups!
Price: General Admission is free; specific tour prices vary, typically from $8 to $30 depending on the tour length and type.
Pit Stop: Bowling Green, Kentucky is a convenient spot to take a break.
Stroller Friendly? Above ground, yes. Cave tours vary, so check in advance.
Lunch Spots: The Park Restaurant at the Mammoth Cave Hotel is just minutes from the cave entrance. Alternatively, local eateries in Cave City provide casual, kid-friendly dining options.
- Watermill Restaurant: offers a buffet-style dining experience with a variety of Southern comfort dishes.
- El Mazatlan: This Mexican restaurant is just a 15-minute drive from the park.
- Turtlelini's Pizza and Pasta: this family-friendly restaurant offers a wide range of pizzas, pastas, and Italian dishes.
4. Fall Creek Falls
Drive Time: About 2 hours
Why Go? Ready to have your breath taken away (in the best way possible, of course)? When it comes to day trips from Nashville, Fall Creek Falls offers a picturesque escape with stunning waterfalls, making it a perfect family day. Boasting some of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, this park is the perfect backdrop for your next family trip. Imagine picnicking under the towering cascades, hiking through lush greenery, and maybe even spotting a rainbow over the falls. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can dip a paddle in the lake or zoom over the treetops on a zip line.
Price: Park Entry is free; small fees for specific activities like boating or mini-golf, generally under $10.
Pit Stop: Several rest areas along the route make for easy stops.
Stroller Friendly? The park has accessible paths around the main recreation areas.
Lunch Spots: The Fall Creek Falls State Park Restaurant offers views of the lake and classic American cuisine. Nearby, country cafes offer down-home cooking, perfect for refueling after a hike.
- The Cookie Jar Cafe: this cozy cafe offers home-cooked Southern meals.
- Campbell’s Family Style Restaurant: known for its Southern cooking.
- Hunt Brothers Pizza: offering a variety of pizzas, making it easy for everyone in the family to find something they like.
5. Franklin
Drive Time: 30 minutes
Why Go? Franklin, just a short drive away, deserves a spot on your list of day trips from Nashville. It’s like stepping back in time, but with cool shops and a ton of festivals to keep things interesting. You can check out Civil War sites that really bring history to life, or just wander through the lively streets full of quirky boutiques and ice cream spots that are sure to be a hit. And don’t miss the festivals—they’re great for the kids, with crafts, music, and maybe even a little dance-off. Franklin’s not just a place to visit; it’s where history and today’s vibe come together, making it a must for a fun family day out.
Prices: Most walking tours are free, though donations are welcome. Certain museums or events may have an entry fee usually under $1.
Pit Stop: It's a straight shot from Nashville to Franklin, so you’ll be there in no time.
Stroller Friendly? Absolutely, especially around the historic downtown area.
Lunch Spots: Franklin’s got plenty of great lunch spots, whether you’re in the mood for some classic Southern comfort food or just want to grab a quick bite at one of the local cafes.
- Merridee's Breadbasket: this bakery and café is a hit with families. It offers a cozy spot to enjoy homemade soups, sandwiches, and irresistible desserts.
- Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant: dishes out classic Southern comfort food. It’s a local favorite where you can enjoy live music along with your meal on certain days.
- Frothy Monkey: offers a variety of options from gourmet sandwiches to sweet treats.
6. Montgomery Bell State Park
Drive Time: About 40 minutes
Why Go? Rounding out the list of day trips from Nashville, Montgomery Bell State Park is a quick drive from the city and offers plenty of activities. Whether you’re fishing in the lake, hiking through the woods, or just taking it easy in a canoe, there’s something for everyone. And the kids will love the park’s environmental programs—they turn every hike into a little adventure. It’s the kind of place where you can get some fresh air, have a blast, and sneak in a bit of learning all at once!
Prices: Park Entry is free; fees for boat rentals or fishing permits vary, usually around $8 to $15.
Pit Stop: Direct drive to a day filled with nature.
Stroller Friendly? Paths around the lake and picnic areas are perfect for strollers.
Lunch Spots: The park's own restaurant offers hearty meals with a view of the lake. Nearby, small local diners in Dickson provide a quick, meal options.
- The Restaurant at Montgomery Bell: enjoy a menu full of American classics. Perfect for satisfying those post-adventure appetites.
- Cindy’s Catfish House & Grill: this spot offers Southern staples like fried catfish and hushpuppies.
- Lugo’s Restaurant: offers kid-friendly options like pasta and grilled cheese, making it a great choice for a family meal.
So there you have it—six day trips from Nashville where you and the family can escape, explore, and make great memories together. Whether you’re hiking, paddling, or just soaking up the scenery, these nearby adventures offer the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. So pack up the car, grab some snacks, and get ready for a day filled with fresh air and family time. Happy exploring!
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