Day Trips from Nashville for Families

Located in southern Indiana, Brown County State Park is the largest state park in Indiana and a must-visit for nature lovers. Known for its stunning fall foliage, the park offers a variety of hiking trails, scenic vistas, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The park's visitor center provides information on local flora and fauna, and there are plenty of picnic areas for a family lunch. Don't miss the chance to explore the park's historic sites, including the historic cabins and the iconic Salt Creek Grist Mill.

Chattanooga, often referred to as the 'Scenic City,' is a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Known for its outdoor adventures, Chattanooga offers a variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. The Tennessee Aquarium is a must-visit for families, featuring a wide array of marine life. The city's vibrant arts and culture scene is showcased in the Creative Discovery Museum and the Hunter Museum of American Art.

Lynchburg, Tennessee, is a historic town known for its rich heritage and the famous Jack Daniel's Distillery. Visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery to learn about the whiskey-making process and sample some of the world's finest bourbon. The town's charming Main Street is lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and local eateries. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Lynchburg Square, a picturesque park in the heart of the town.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a unique and beautiful destination located between Kentucky and Barkley Lakes. This vast area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The area is home to the Elk & Bison Prairie, where visitors can observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat. The Golden Pond Visitor Center provides information on local attractions and offers a variety of educational programs.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular mountain town nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Gatlinburg offers a variety of activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. The town is also home to a variety of attractions, including the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and the Gatlinburg Space Needle, a 407-foot observation tower with panoramic views.

Huntsville, Alabama, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural attractions. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is a must-visit for space enthusiasts, featuring a variety of interactive exhibits and the historic Saturn V rocket. The Huntsville Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of artwork, and the Huntsville Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis featuring a variety of plant life and scenic trails.

Mammoth Cave National Park, located in central Kentucky, is the longest known cave system in the world. Visitors can explore the park's extensive cave system through a variety of guided tours, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The park also offers a variety of above-ground activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The Mammoth Cave Visitor Center provides information on local attractions and offers a variety of educational programs.

Memphis, Tennessee, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural attractions. The National Civil Rights Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, featuring a variety of interactive exhibits and the historic Lorraine Motel. The Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum showcases the city's rich musical heritage, and the Memphis Zoo is a popular attraction for families. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the city's famous barbecue at one of the many local restaurants.

Paducah, Kentucky, is a charming river town located on the banks of the Ohio River. Known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, Paducah is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and historic sites. The National Quilt Museum is a must-visit for quilt enthusiasts, featuring a diverse collection of quilts from around the world. The Paducah Riverfront offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and scenic walks along the river.

Birmingham, Alabama, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural attractions. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a must-visit for history buffs, featuring a variety of interactive exhibits and the historic 16th Street Baptist Church. The Birmingham Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of artwork, and the Birmingham Zoo is a popular attraction for families. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the city's famous barbecue at one of the many local restaurants.