Top Tennessee Road Trips
I just doesn’t get any more American than apple pie, fireworks, and a good ol’ road trip. From mighty rivers to rolling hills to breathtaking waterfalls, Tennessee is a great state for a great trip. So pack the cooler, buckle in the kids, and hit the road! We’ve lined up 6 great adventures that originate in the Volunteer state and that are guaranteed to knock your socks off.
Nashville to Memphis via I-40W
After Seeing Nashville like a Nashvillian and hitting up Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, The Ryman, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, head on out of Nashville via I-40W. You’ll cover 212 beautiful miles in just over three hours. From the Music City to the Home of the Blues, there’s really nothing like it.
Once you hit Memphis, make a stop at Sun Studio, Graceland, catch a glimpse of the famed bluff, and say “hey” to the Peabody ducks. Or, simply schedule a Memphis MoJo tour!
Memphis to Natchez via US-61
Get off the Interstate for this one and ride along the US Highways and Mississippi Delta. Set your dial for the local AM stations and be prepared to get blown away by some of the best blues you’ve ever heard come through your car’s speakers.
As you make your way south, you’ll feel as though you’re stepping through time. Cities slip away while the river and cotton makes their presence known. Be sure to stop at the crossroads, made famous by Robert Johnson, at the corner of Highway 61 (“The Blues Highway”) and Highway 49 in Clarksdale, MS. Some purists claim the true crossroads are at the intersections of Highways 8 and 1 in Rosedale, so you may want to make a stop there as well. If you’re looking for an incredible group tour, check out our Clarksdale Delta Blues Tour!
Memphis to Sewanee via US-64 E and US-41A S
Over the course of 320 miles, you’ll pass through Selmer and Savannah on your way to beautiful Sewanee, Tennessee. Grab some down home Southern cooking in Selmer and walk it all off once you reach the South Cumberland State Park in Sewanee. This gorgeous parks boasts more than 90 miles of trails. While you’re in the neighborhood, see what the Savage Gulf and the Stone Door have to offer.
Sewanee to Chattanooga via I-24 E
Take a nice stroll through the University of the South before saddling up and taking the 50-mile hop from Sewanee to Chattanooga. Some of River City’s can’t-miss attractions include the Tennessee Aquarium, Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain, and Rock City.
Gatlinburg to Asheville via Highway 441 & the Blue Ridge Parkway
This has to be one of the most breathtaking drives in the state of Tennessee. Although the distance is modest, around 100 miles, plan on a full day’s drive. The roads are winding, the overlooks are gorgeous, and the hiking trails will call to you. Pack a picnic and call it a day. When you reach Asheville, wander around downtown and cozy up to to the bar at Curate for some of the best tapas this side of Spain.
Johnson City to Knoxville via I-40 W
Let’s not forget about Johnson City, Tennesse! After letting the kids run wild at the Hands On Regional Museum, make a grab for the hand sanitizer and down a brew at Yee-Haw Brewing Company or Johnson City Brewing Company.
Once you’re ready to hit the trail again, start making tracks to Knoxville. The 107 mile journey will lead you to home of the Tennessee Volunteers. Knoxville is more than a college town, though. While you’re here, be sure to check out the Sunsphere at World’s Fair Park. Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, this incredible globe offers 360-degree views of downtown Knoxville, the Smoky Mountains, and the Tennessee River.
If you’re looking for something a little more guided than Google, contact the vacation professionals at Sweet Magnolia Tours!
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