Things to do Near Nashville

There's plenty in downtown Nashville to keep you busy for a while. But when you've had your fill of honky tonks, urban flair and hot chicken and want to venture further afield, it makes sense to head out for a day trip. And you'll find an incredible variety of day-trip-worthy destinations within easy driving distance of Nashville. You'll find everything from wineries and distilleries to gorgeous hiking spots, Civil War battlefields and small towns just waiting to be explored.

The countryside around Nashville features rolling hills and scenic vistas. To the east, you'll encounter stunning mountains. To the north is horse racing territory; distilleries and tobacco fields pepper the landscape. In nooks and crannies in the immediate area surrounding Nashville, you'll find vineyards, creeks, state parks and nature reserves aplenty. No matter which way you venture, you'll be met by a relaxing, scenic drive, friendly folks and something well worth your time to experience.

Here are some of the best things to do near Nashville, TN. Day trips spent heading to these spots are time well spent.

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Jack Daniel's Distillery is the oldest registered distillery in the United States. Founded in 1863, they've had plenty of time to perfect the art and science of their iconic No. 7 whiskey. Head to the visitor center for a tasting and to find out how their whiskey is made. When you're done, take time to explore Lynchburg, TN, home to plenty of great restaurants and other attractions like the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, before heading back to Nashville. Don't feel like driving? Book a guided tour that departs from Nashville for a Jack Daniel's Distillery experience.

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The Oaklands Mansion is a well-preserved Civil War-era plantation home that has been beautifully preserved and restored to the beauty it possessed more than a century ago. Occupied by the Maney family during and after the Civil War, the home itself was built in the early 1850s; it features an eye-catching Italianate design, gorgeous gardens and an arboretum that you can stroll through when you visit. It's a lovely glimpse into the area's culture and history and a peaceful respite from the city. Grab a lunch at The Chop House or another of Murfreesboro's eateries while you're in the area.

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Arrington Vineyards is just south of Nashville. Occupying 95 acres, this gorgeous family-run vineyard is a great place to go for a tasting or a food-and-wine pairing. If you time your visit right, you'll also be able to enjoy live music and a full meal while you're there. You could also grab a bottle of wine, some cheese and snacks and head to a solitary stretch of the vineyard for a hillside picnic.

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Franklin, TN has a lot going for it. This cute mountain town is chock-full of historic homes, Civil War history, intimate eateries serving up locally distilled whiskey and microbrews and friendly, chill vibes. The downtown stretch is lined with art galleries, boutiques and vintage/antique shops. Take in the sights at your own pace with a Franklin hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour, or get a taste of the Tennessee backroads on a guided backcountry side-by-side ride.

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Clarksville is a little farther than Franklin, but it packs its own distinctive vibe that's well worth a visit. You'll find a downtown lined with restaurants, boutique shops and galleries. In the little town's downtown, you'll find a three-story brewery called Strawberry Alley Ale Works, a buzzing location with industrial-chic decor, a compelling craft beer selection and an all-day menu. Clarksville's location on the Cumberland River has enshrined it in history; it's also just a hop away from Dunbar Cave State Park, a great spot to stop for an hour or two.

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Head north into Kentucky's tobacco fields and you'll find more than just thoroughbreds and tobacco sheds. Located just outside of Bowling Green, Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world's longest cave system. Take a guided tour, explore the areas that are open to the public and stop by the visitor's center and gift shop before you leave. Mammoth Cave is located on Kentucky's Scenic Route 70, which traverses a gorgeous slice of the country--well worth a little more driving, if you feel like exploring more after visiting the caves.

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Rock Island State Park is best visited during the hot summer months when you're in the mood for some clean, cool water to jump in. This state park is home to a gorgeous cascade, miles of walking/hiking trails and beachside access to the river so you can jump right in. Dogs are also welcome at this state park, making it a great Nashville day trip choice if you have canine companions along for the adventure. When it comes to fun things to do near Nashville, Rock Island State Park will always be near the top of the list.

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The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the nation's most peaceful parkways. Devoid of billboards and strip malls, you'll find curve after curve of gorgeous countryside, with plenty of history and beautiful stops along the way. This is a popular route for bikers, so keep your eyes open for motorcycles as you go, but don't hesitate to stop at the many points of interest and eateries as you go. You can also take the Natchez Trace down to Leiper's Fork for a memorable Tennessee day.

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If you take the leisurely, wandering Natchez Trace Parkway from Nashville to Leiper's Fork, the drive will take you a little over an hour--but the scenery makes the voyage well worth the trip. The drive is shorter if you take Old Hillsboro Road. The rural village of Leiper's Fork isn't far from Franklin, TN, but it's worthy of a day trip of its own, particularly if you're looking for a lovely place to grab lunch or dinner and enjoy a little sightseeing before heading back to Nashville. Leiper's Fork offers lots of antique shopping, a few excellent lunch spots and the Leiper's Fork Distillery, which offers guided tours.

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Located outside of Chattanooga, TN, Rock City Gardens offers an experience that encapsulates some of the area's most breathtaking views. Rock City is admittedly a longer day trip from Nashville; to make the most of your time in Rock City, you'd want to get an early start. But the view from the top--where you can see seven states on a clear day--is worth the trip. The entire experience will be a memorable one as the trails are family-friendly and the woodlands, botanical gardens and on-site cafes and gift shops can keep you enchanted for hours. You could also take a ride up the Incline Railway, a glass-topped funicular, or venture underground to see Ruby Falls, a subterranean waterfall.

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Bowling Green is just about an hour north of Nashville, but it has a very distinctive personality. Stop by the National Corvette Museum, take a boat tour through the Lost River Cave, or stop at the Historic RailPark and Train Museum before grabbing a bite to eat; Tony's of Bowling Green is a solid choice.

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Cumberland Caverns is hands-down one of the best day trips near Nashville. From gorgeous caverns to an underground waterfall, the best way to experience this outing is via guided tour. Skip the driving and hop on a bus for a guided small bus tour from Nashville complete with an excursion down to the caverns below. Take note that in order to reach the caverns, you'll have to traverse 350 steps hand-cut into the stone, so it's ranked as moderate in difficulty. If you're driving yourself, consider stopping in Mckinnville for lunch; Collins River BBQ is a local favorite.

When thinking of the best time to visit Nashville it’s important to know that AAA members can access perks and take advances for vacation planning such as getting the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.