Day Trips in Tennessee: Waterfalls, Music, History & Hidden Gems

From breathtaking mountain hikes and world-famous music landmarks to Civil War history and quirky roadside stops, day trips in Tennessee offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a nature escape in the Smokies, a cultural dive into Memphis and Nashville, or a scenic waterfall hike, Tennessee’s diverse regions deliver unforgettable one-day adventures across East, Middle, and West Tennessee.

Tennessee is full of amazing day-trip opportunities, whether you’re into nature, history, music, or food. Here are some great options:

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Gatlinburg)
    • Hike to Clingmans Dome, Laurel Falls, or Alum Cave Bluffs.
    • Drive the scenic Cades Cove Loop and spot wildlife.
    • Enjoy the vibrant fall colors or spring wildflowers.
  • Ruby Falls & Lookout Mountain (Chattanooga)
    • Explore Ruby Falls, a stunning underground waterfall.
    • Ride the Incline Railway for breathtaking views.
    • Walk across the swinging bridge at Rock City.
  • Cummins Falls State Park (Cookeville)
    • Hike to one of Tennessee’s best natural waterfalls.
    • Swim in the cool waters at the base of the falls.
    • Bring sturdy shoes for the rugged trails.
  • Fall Creek Falls State Park (Spencer)
    • See Tennessee’s tallest waterfall (256 feet).
    • Hike, zipline, or go kayaking on the lake.
    • Perfect for a scenic picnic.
  • Reelfoot Lake State Park (Tiptonville)
    • Take a boat tour and see bald eagles.
    • Kayak through the cypress swamp.
    • Great for birdwatching and fishing.

Historic & Cultural Excursions

  • Jack Daniel’s Distillery (Lynchburg)
    • Take a tour of the world-famous whiskey distillery.
    • Stroll around the charming town square.
    • Try some Southern comfort food at Miss Mary Bobo’s.
  • Shiloh National Military Park (Shiloh)
    • Explore one of the most significant Civil War battlefields.
    • Visit the Shiloh Indian Mounds.
    • Walk the peaceful trails with historical markers.
  • Oak Ridge Museum of Science & Energy (Oak Ridge)
    • Learn about the Manhattan Project and atomic history.
    • See interactive exhibits on nuclear energy.
    • Drive by the historic Y-12 National Security Complex.

Music & City Fun

  • Nashville Day Trip
    • Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame.
    • Walk down Broadway for live music and bars.
    • Explore the Ryman Auditorium and Johnny Cash Museum.
  • Memphis Day Trip
    • Tour Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home.
    • Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel.
    • Eat world-famous BBQ on Beale Street.
  • Bristol – Birthplace of Country Music
    • Tour the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
    • Check out the historic Bristol Sign.
    • Experience live Appalachian music.
  • Dollywood (Pigeon Forge)
    • Enjoy roller coasters and live entertainment.
    • Taste amazing Southern food.
    • Experience Appalachian culture and crafts.

Unique & Off-the-Beaten-Path

  • The Lost Sea Adventure (Sweetwater)
    • Explore America’s largest underground lake.
    • Take a boat ride inside the cave.
    • Learn about the cave’s history and formation.
  • Bell Witch Cave (Adams)
    • Visit the legendary haunted cave and farm.
    • Hear eerie stories of Tennessee’s famous ghost.
    • A must for paranormal enthusiasts.
  • Discovery Park of America (Union City)
    • A massive museum with history, science, and art exhibits.
    • Features a replica of the Liberty Bell and space exploration exhibits.
    • Great for families and curious minds.

Here’s a list of 10 amazing day trips for each region of Tennessee—East, Middle, and West—so you can find something great no matter where you are!

🌄 East Tennessee (Mountains, Music, and Adventure)

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Gatlinburg)
    • Hike to Clingmans Dome or Alum Cave.
    • Visit Cades Cove for wildlife spotting.
  • Dollywood & Pigeon Forge
    • Ride thrilling roller coasters.
    • See live Appalachian music performances.
  • Lookout Mountain (Chattanooga)
    • Visit Rock City and Ruby Falls.
    • Ride the Incline Railway.
  • Lost Sea Adventure (Sweetwater)
    • Explore America’s largest underground lake.
    • Take a boat ride inside a cave.
  • Bristol – Birthplace of Country Music
    • Visit the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
    • Enjoy live Appalachian music.
  • Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness
    • Hike at Ijams Nature Center.
    • Walk the historic Market Square.
  • Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area (Oneida)
    • Go whitewater rafting or horseback riding.
    • Explore Twin Arches, Tennessee’s largest natural bridge.
  • Roan Mountain State Park
    • Hike the Appalachian Trail.
    • See breathtaking rhododendron blooms in June.
  • Cherohala Skyway & Bald River Falls
    • Drive one of the most scenic roads in the Southeast.
    • Stop for a waterfall picnic.
  • Jonesborough – Tennessee’s Oldest Town
    • Stroll historic streets and visit charming shops.
    • Attend a storytelling festival.

🏙️ Middle Tennessee (Music, Whiskey, & Waterfalls)

  • Nashville
    • Walk Broadway for live country music.
    • Tour the Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame.
  • Jack Daniel’s Distillery (Lynchburg)
    • Tour the world-famous whiskey distillery.
    • Have lunch at Miss Mary Bobo’s.
  • Cummins Falls State Park (Cookeville)
    • Hike to a stunning waterfall.
    • Swim in the refreshing waters.
  • Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky, near Nashville)
    • Explore the world’s longest cave system.
    • Take a guided underground tour.
  • Bell Witch Cave (Adams)
    • Visit Tennessee’s most haunted site.
    • Learn the eerie legend of the Bell Witch.
  • Burgess Falls & Window Cliffs
    • Hike to beautiful cascading waterfalls.
    • Great for photography and picnics.
  • The Parthenon & Centennial Park (Nashville)
    • Visit a full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon.
    • Walk through Nashville’s most famous park.
  • Shiloh National Military Park
    • Walk through one of the most important Civil War battlefields.
    • See the historic sites and Shiloh Indian Mounds.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway
    • Drive the scenic historic route.
    • Visit the iconic Jackson Falls and Meriwether Lewis site.
  • Arrington Vineyards
    • Enjoy wine tasting with scenic views.
    • Bring a picnic and relax with live music.

🎷 West Tennessee (Blues, Barbecue, & History)

  • Memphis
    • Visit Graceland, home of Elvis Presley.
    • Walk down Beale Street for live blues music.
  • National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis)
    • Tour the historic Lorraine Motel.
    • Learn about key moments in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Reelfoot Lake State Park (Tiptonville)
    • Take a boat tour through a cypress swamp.
    • See bald eagles in winter.
  • Discovery Park of America (Union City)
    • Explore a massive interactive museum.
    • See a 100-foot replica of the Liberty Bell.
  • Shelby Farms Park (Memphis)
    • Go zip-lining, paddle boating, or biking.
    • Enjoy one of the largest urban parks in America.
  • Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
    • Hike through scenic woodlands.
    • Spot white-tailed deer and great blue herons.
  • Dyersburg & the Mississippi River
    • Visit scenic river overlooks.
    • Enjoy catfish and classic Southern food.
  • The Peabody Ducks (Memphis)
    • Watch the famous Peabody Hotel duck march.
    • Have a rooftop cocktail with views of the city.
  • Chickasaw State Park
    • Rent a kayak or go horseback riding.
    • Perfect for a quiet nature escape.
  • Brownsville & the Tina Turner Museum
    • Learn about Tina Turner’s early life.
    • Explore West Tennessee’s blues and soul music history.

Here are 10 budget-friendly day trips for each region of Tennessee! These trips focus on free or low-cost activities, making them great for exploring on a budget.

🌄 East Tennessee (Budget-Friendly Day Trips)

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Free)
    • Hike to Laurel Falls or Clingmans Dome.
    • Drive the scenic Cades Cove Loop for wildlife spotting.
  • Market Square & Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness (Free)
    • Enjoy street performances, window shopping, and free events.
    • Hike, bike, or kayak at Ijams Nature Center.
  • Bristol’s Birthplace of Country Music (Free-$15)
    • Explore downtown Bristol and the historic Bristol sign.
    • The Birthplace of Country Music Museum has free admission days.
  • Lookout Mountain & Sunset Rock (Free)
    • Hike to Sunset Rock for breathtaking views.
    • Rock City and Ruby Falls are paid attractions, but many free trails offer great views.
  • Watauga Lake & Cherokee National Forest (Free)
    • Swim, picnic, or hike around the stunning Watauga Lake.
    • Perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding (cheap rentals available).
  • Roan Mountain State Park (Free)
    • Explore hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.
    • Visit during the summer to see the famous rhododendron blooms.
  • The Lost Sea (Budget Option: Cave Entrance & Trails – Free)
    • The cave tour costs money, but you can explore the free above-ground nature trails.
  • Big South Fork National River (Free)
    • Hike Twin Arches or take scenic drives.
    • Explore historic sites like the Blue Heron Mining Community.
  • Norris Dam State Park (Free)
    • Walk across the dam and enjoy peaceful lake views.
    • Fish or picnic along the water.
  • Jonesborough – Tennessee’s Oldest Town (Mostly Free)
    • Stroll the historic streets and check out free storytelling events.
    • Window shop in charming local stores.

🏙️ Middle Tennessee (Budget-Friendly Day Trips)

  • Centennial Park & The Parthenon (Free)
    • Walk around the iconic park and see the Parthenon (small fee for museum entry).
  • Jack Daniel’s Distillery (Free Tour Option)
    • Take the complimentary tour in Lynchburg.
    • Walk around the charming historic town square.
  • Cummins Falls State Park (Free)
    • Hike to the stunning waterfall.
    • Bring your own picnic for a no-cost meal.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway (Free)
    • Drive along this historic scenic route.
    • Visit Jackson Falls and the Meriwether Lewis Memorial.
  • Arrington Vineyards (Free Entry)
    • Bring your own picnic and enjoy the vineyard views.
    • Free live music on weekends.
  • Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park (Free)
    • Walk the Tennessee history timeline.
    • Visit the WWII Memorial and Capitol building.
  • Stones River National Battlefield (Free)
    • Learn about Civil War history at this well-preserved site.
    • Walk the trails and visit the free museum.
  • Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park (Free)
    • Hike trails around ancient Native American earthworks.
    • Enjoy peaceful waterfalls and picnic areas.
  • Radnor Lake State Park (Free)
    • Hike scenic trails with plenty of wildlife.
    • No bikes or pets allowed, keeping it extra peaceful.
  • Dunbar Cave State Park (Free)
    • Walk through the large, historic cave entrance.
    • Free guided cave tours are sometimes offered.

🎷 West Tennessee (Budget-Friendly Day Trips)

  • Shelby Farms Park (Free)
    • Walk or bike the Greenline Trail.
    • Visit the free playgrounds and lakes.
  • Beale Street & Free Live Music (Free)
    • Walk this famous blues street and enjoy free outdoor concerts.
    • Window shop and take in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • National Civil Rights Museum (Free on Special Days)
    • Admission is free on MLK Day.
    • Visit the outside exhibits for free any time.
  • Mud Island River Park & Riverwalk (Free)
    • Walk along the Mississippi River.
    • Explore a scaled replica of the river.
  • Reelfoot Lake State Park (Free)
    • Watch bald eagles and visit the free nature center.
    • Explore the unique cypress swamp.
  • Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park (Free)
    • Hike wooded trails and spot wildlife.
    • Picnic at Poplar Tree Lake.
  • Chickasaw State Park (Free)
    • Relax at the beach area and swim in the lake.
    • Free hiking trails with scenic overlooks.
  • The Peabody Ducks (Free)
    • Watch the famous ducks march through the Peabody Hotel lobby.
    • Fun, quirky, and totally free.
  • Brownsville’s Tina Turner Museum (Free)
    • Learn about Tina Turner’s early life.
    • Visit West Tennessee’s Music Heritage Museum.
  • Shiloh National Military Park (Free)
    • Drive through the battlefield and see historic monuments.
    • Visit the free museum and interpretive center.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly, lesser-known day trips in Tennessee, here are 10 hidden gems for each region. These spots offer adventure, history, and nature—all on a budget!

🌄 East Tennessee (Lesser-Known Budget-Friendly Day Trips)

  • Elrod Falls (Free – Hancock County)
    • A secluded three-tiered waterfall.
    • Great for a quiet picnic and short hike.
  • Fort Loudoun State Historic Park (Free – Vonore)
    • Explore an 18th-century British fort with scenic lake views.
    • Visit the museum and go on easy hiking trails.
  • Ozone Falls (Free – Near Crossville)
    • A short hike to a breathtaking 110-foot waterfall.
    • Featured in Jungle Book (1994).
  • Blue Hole Falls (Free – Elizabethton)
    • A hidden swimming hole with multiple small waterfalls.
    • Perfect for a summer dip.
  • Nolichucky River Gorge Overlook (Free – Erwin)
    • Stunning views without the crowds.
    • Great for photographers and hikers.
  • Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary (Budget – Petros)
    • Tour a former maximum-security prison ($10-$15 entry).
    • Enjoy a haunted and historical experience.
  • Seven Islands State Birding Park (Free – Kodak)
    • Beautiful trails along the French Broad River.
    • A birdwatcher’s paradise.
  • Max Patch (Free – Near Newport)
    • A stunning, grassy bald with 360-degree mountain views.
    • Great for picnicking and stargazing.
  • The Devil’s Triangle (Free – Oliver Springs Area)
    • A scenic and thrilling mountain drive.
    • Stop at historic coal mining sites.
  • Hot Springs, NC (Near TN Border – Free Option)
    • Soak your feet in the natural hot springs for free!
    • Take a short riverside hike along the Appalachian Trail.

🏙️ Middle Tennessee (Lesser-Known Budget-Friendly Day Trips)

  • Stillhouse Hollow Falls (Free – Summertown)
    • A peaceful, little-known waterfall hike.
    • Beautiful for photography and relaxing.
  • Narrows of the Harpeth (Free – Near Kingston Springs)
    • Hike to a scenic overlook and a tunnel carved in the 1800s.
    • Great kayaking and fishing area.
  • Duck River Blueway (Free – Various Access Points)
    • One of the most biodiverse rivers in the world.
    • Perfect for a peaceful paddle trip (rentals are cheap).
  • Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park (Free – Pall Mall)
    • Visit the home of WWI hero Alvin C. York.
    • Walk the scenic river trail and suspension bridge.
  • Bee Rock Overlook (Free – Monterey)
    • A stunning but underrated scenic viewpoint.
    • Short hike with picnic spots.
  • Gainesboro Historic Town Square (Free – Gainesboro)
    • A charming small-town walk with old-time shops.
    • Visit a hidden gem coffee shop.
  • Meriwether Lewis Historic Site (Free – Hohenwald)
    • Visit the explorer’s burial site.
    • Hike short scenic trails.
  • Short Springs Natural Area (Free – Tullahoma)
    • Home to Machine Falls, a lesser-known waterfall.
    • Quiet, scenic nature trails.
  • Rock Island State Park (Free – Near McMinnville)
    • Explore cascading waterfalls and blue-green pools.
    • Enjoy the riverside picnic areas.
  • Cordell Hull Lake & Defeated Creek (Free – Carthage Area)
    • Great for peaceful lake views and swimming.
    • Less crowded than nearby Center Hill Lake.

🎷 West Tennessee (Lesser-Known Budget-Friendly Day Trips)

  • Big Cypress Tree State Park (Free – Greenfield)
    • Visit the site of Tennessee’s largest bald cypress tree.
    • A quiet, off-the-beaten-path park.
  • Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park (Free – Jackson Area)
    • Climb ancient Native American mounds.
    • A peaceful spot for history lovers.
  • Fort Pillow State Historic Park (Free – Henning)
    • Walk through a Civil War battlefield and earthworks.
    • Secluded hiking trails with great views.
  • Wolf River Wildlife Management Area (Free – Fayette County)
    • Hidden cypress swamps and wildlife.
    • Good for quiet kayaking or nature walks.
  • Johnsonville State Historic Park (Free – New Johnsonville)
    • Civil War battle site along the Tennessee River.
    • Less crowded than other battlefield parks.
  • Parker’s Crossroads Battlefield (Free – Parker’s Crossroads)
    • Drive or walk through a quiet Civil War battlefield.
    • Well-preserved historic markers.
  • Coon Creek Science Center (Budget – Adamsville, $5-$10)
    • Fossil dig site with 70-million-year-old marine fossils.
    • Fun for kids and science lovers.
  • Natchez Trace State Park (Free – Wildersville)
    • Hike peaceful trails with few crowds.
    • Free swimming and fishing options.
  • T.O. Fuller State Park (Free – Memphis)
    • A hidden nature retreat just outside the city.
    • Features forested trails and a historic site.
  • Ames Plantation (Free – Grand Junction)
    • Explore an antebellum plantation with hiking trails.
    • Open for self-guided tours on select days.