10 Great Day Trips from Nashville

From the Grand Ole Opry to the Parthenon, as well as countless bars and live music venues, Nashville has no shortage of things to do to keep both locals and visitors entertained. Even so, it can be nice to step away from the city buzz every now and then. Luckily, just a short drive can take you to a variety of amazing attractions and hidden gems, from national parks to petting zoos and so much more.

To help you plan the ultimate getaway, we've compiled a list of 10 great day trips from Nashville. Take this opportunity to explore unique attractions as you make wonderful memories.

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If you only have an afternoon to spare, head for Historic Rock Castle. Just half an hour from Nashville, this hidden gem played a critical role in shaping Tennessee history, as it was home to the surveyor Daniel Smith. Tour guides provide a glimpse at life in the 1800s, but the grounds are also open to explore on your own. This attraction hosts a summer songwriters' series, which attracts some of the region's finest talent. During these special events, it's easy to keep kids entertained with inflatables while the adults enjoy craft beers.

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A scenic drive (spanning about one and a half hours) will bring you from the heart of Nashville into one of the most underrated national parks: Kentucky's Mammoth Cave. Offering access to portions of the world's longest-known cave system, this unique park provides plenty of opportunities to explore both above and below ground. There are many memorable cave tours available, including some led by lanterns and others that involve adventurous crawling. The park also boasts over eighty miles of hiking trails.

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Like Mammoth Cave, Burgess Falls requires about one and a half hours of driving — but this journey will be well-rewarded: this underrated park promises amazing views. The main highlight being the park's four stunning waterfalls. These cascade a total of 250 feet, with the final falls plummeting an impressive 130 feet into a deep gorge. A kayak is needed to reach the base, but many visitors are happy to gaze at the falls from afar. Don't forget to stop by the charming Chestnut Oaks Farm Store for ice cream or a brisket sandwich.

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If you're craving even more waterfall adventures, head further east to the beautiful Cummins Falls State Park. Much of the appeal involves exploring the falls up close, ideally while wearing water shoes. The swimming hole makes for a refreshing getaway on a hot summer's day, although the park is most beautiful in the spring. After a successful hike, stop by DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards so you can enjoy chardonnay plus charcuterie.

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Perched atop Lookout Mountain, Rock City Gardens promises a memorable cliffside experience, complete with unique rock formations and beautiful gardens. If possible, check out the Enchanted Garden of Lights, which brings an extra dose of magic to Rock City during the holiday season. Year-round highlights include the Hall of the Mountain King and the thrilling crevice known as Fat Man’s Squeeze. In nearby Chattanooga, you can check out the lovely Glen Falls or take a ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway — also excellent Nashville day trip idea.

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Located near Cummins Falls State Park, the town of Cookeville is a great spot if you’re looking for laid-back, small-town charm. Strolling through the area is a treat on its own, but the Cookeville Depot Museum is a must-see, especially if you’re visiting with kids. This cozy and charming museum is full of interesting exhibits and happens to be right across the street from a fantastic ice cream shop. Just a bit further down Broad Street, you’ll find the Cookeville History Museum and the Cookeville Performing Arts Center, both of which are well worth exploring.

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As the nation's oldest registered distillery, this Jack Daniel's destination is a must for whiskey enthusiasts, who can learn a lot about the legacy of America's most iconic spirits. The distillery tour offers a deep dive into the history of this recognizable brand, not to mention details about the hard work that goes into producing Jack Daniel's products. Sampling is always encouraged, with the tour including a total of six samples. Specialized experiences are also available, including the exclusive Bonded Tour and Innovation Tasting.

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Providing a unique glimpse at Tennessee life during the 1800s and early 1900s, Cannonsburgh Village is home to many reconstructed pioneer structures, including a schoolhouse, a gristmill, a blacksmith's shop and more. Explore at your own pace as you enjoy a self-guided tour — and don't forget to stop by a truly unique attraction: the world's largest cedar bucket. Initially built by the Tennessee Red Cedar Woodworks Company, this sizable bucket was partially destroyed by fire but eventually rebuilt using the original handle and hardware.

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For an amazing family expedition, look no further than the charming Lucky Ladd Farms, which, at just 45 minutes from the heart of Nashville, makes for an easy day out. Spanning 60 acres, this is the state's largest petting farm — and while little ones can easily keep busy with the pony rides and other animal interactions, this is only the beginning. The seasonal field experiences are just as enjoyable, with favorites including pick-your-own tulips, pick-your-own strawberries and pick-your-own sunflowers. Other highlights include playgrounds, tractor displays and a corn maze.

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Splash pads might not seem like a top contender for Nashville day trip spots, but on a hot day — and when dealing with bored kids — the whimsical splash pad in the nearby town of White House is absolutely worth the drive. This outdoor destination is only half an hour away from Nashville, so it's easy to reach. Pirate and flower-themed water features captivate young children, who also enjoy climbing on safe, yet exciting structures at the adjacent playground. Combine your splash pad adventure with a visit to the TN Flea Mall, where you'll find all kinds of treasures.

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