Taking a day trip in the summertime is just a given – why WOULDN’T you lock yourself in a car for hours, in a little pod of air conditioning, and traverse the good ol’ US of A? It’s a classic facet of old school Americana, and we look forward to planning sunny days on the road just as much as the next person. These places are close enough to Nashville that you won’t have to book a hotel, but can still get the rush of the open road. Check ’em out! If you’re looking for some amazing waterfalls in Nashville, road trips in Nashville, or anything else – you’re going to love these.

1. Check out this list of of things to do in Nashville for an epic adventure, each one more necessary than the last.
Michael Hicks - Flickr
From the best country restaurant for breakfast to a hike around the waters edge, we've scoured the surrounding areas around Nashville to bring you an epic adventure guide. All you have to do? Commit.
2. Did you know about the epic wine train near Nashville?
220 Willow St, Nashville, TN 37210, USA
DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards, 600 Lance Dr, Baxter, TN 38544, USA
Delmonaco Winery - Facebook
The Central Tennessee Railway has multiple excursions planned on an annual basis, but their trek out to DelMonaco Winery is one of the most amazing. Take a day trip out into the countryside, no driving required. Just a whole lotta rest and wine upon arrival. Does it get better than that? We think not.
3. This list of tea rooms in Nashville makes for a fun, classy afternoon.
High Garden - Facebook
Have you ever visited a local tea room? We have a whole list of places to enjoy, whether you're stocking up your cabinet or looking for an afternoon full of peace and calm. We may not be in England, but Tennessee is doing fine all by itself.
4. Looking to get out onto some lakes near Nashville?
Big Willie's Action Sports - Facebook
Kayaking is a pretty fun Saturday experience, and we've found seven places where you can indulge all across Music City (Whether you're looking to stay close to home or not!). Grab a friend, make a reservation and get out there! It's almost never a bad time for this, but summer is definitely the BEST time.
5. This hidden park in Nashville is an absolute hidden gem.
Bells Bend, Nashville, TN, USA
Kelly Stewart - Flickr
Bells Bend is one of the least known public parks in Nashville, and we'd argue it's one of the most beautiful. Skip Radnor and head just outside of the city, where no tourists or crowds await. This is pure Tennessee beauty.

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6. Have you visitedThe Lost Sea?
140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874, USA
The Lost Sea Adventure - Facebook
The Lost Sea is actually one of the largest bodies of underground water in the United States, and is actually known across the world for its vast size. Since it's located right here in Sweetwater, Tennessee, you can take a glass bottomed boat tour anytime you want.
7. We found the best lazy rivers in Tennessee for tubing!
1270 US-70, Kingston Springs, TN 37082, USA
Foggy Bottom Canoe - Facebook
Foggy Bottom Canoeing is one of the best places to visit if you're looking for a day on the Harpeth, filled with sunshine and sans crowds. Rent one of their canoes and take 'em for a spin - and make sure to bring some friends! The more folks, the more fun.
8. These waterfalls in Tennessee are hiding in plain sight.
Michael Hicks - Flickr
Waterfalls make for a magical experience, don't they? There's a certain aesthetic to it, something that just calms us and makes us feel completely at peace. There are seven waterfalls near Nashville hiding in plain sight. Which one will you visit first? We know - it's hard to choose.
9. We found the best places for camping around Nashville.
Nashville on the Move - Flickr
East Tennessee tends to get all the accolades when it comes to camping, but Middle Tennessee ain't no schlump. We've found ten spots that are great if you're looking to pitch a tent, and find the best, most affordable camping near Nashville.
10. Adventureworks makes for one of the most exciting days spent in nature.
1300 Narrows of the Harpeth Rd, Kingston Springs, TN 37082, USA
Adventureworks - Facebook
Located in Kingston Springs, Adventureworks has a canopy course that's great for folks of all ages. There are nine separate ziplines in the park, which means you can zip for over a mile through the beautiful heart of the Tennessee wilderness.
11. This taco road trip near Nashville will take your tastebuds on QUITE the wild ride.
Google Maps
Taco joints tend to be the genearational watering hole of millennials, but can you blame them? From the cult following of Mas Tacos to Oscar's and bartaco, we've mapped out the best way to indulge. You can find the link to our map right here.

Fun, hey? If you’d rather stay overnight somewhere, you should check out these 10 Beautiful Farmhouses Around Nashville. After all, it’s not every day you get to spend the night somewhere so beautiful.

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More to Explore

Best Day Trips in Nashville

Tori Jane | July 11, 2022

What are some fun, unique things to do around Nashville? 

Nashville is a fun and unique place to visit (or live), and there are all kinds of wonderful unique things to do around Nashville that we’re pretty sure you won’t want to miss. Nashville is, of course, the country music capital of the world, and thanks to that it’s one of the best (and only) places you can come to visit historic locations in the genre’s history, including the world-famous Grand Ole Opry. There’s also the Nashville Musician’s Hall of Fame, and music fans also won’t want to miss a stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. Kill the whole afternoon somewhere like the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens, which is 55 acres of urban paradise, or maybe check out any of the state parks in Nashville and go camping!  

Where can I go on some fun day trips near me?  

Nashville is an awesome destination for day trips. Did you know you can visit the original Jack Daniel’s Distillery and do a tour? Even if you’re not a whiskey drinker, you might still enjoy learning about the history of this Tennessee staple and learning more about how it’s made. You can even do samples! Spend the day looking at some of the most amazing murals in Nashville and check out the Nashville Zoo if you’re an animal lover. Hike on any of the beautiful hiking trails in Nashville (and nearby) or visit one of the many state parks around Nashville for a real adventure.  

What are the best getaway spots near me? 

Nashville is an excellent city for the perfect getaway no matter what you’re interested in. Check out one of the many historic places to stay in Nashville and make the perfect weekend out of it, or maybe do a long, scenic drive along the Honky Tonk Highway and make every stop along the way. Enjoy a romantic dinner at some of the best restaurants in Nashville and finish off the evening at some of Nashville’s famous hotels. There are even some wineries around Nashville that also make for the perfect getaway; the possibilities are only as limited as your imagination.  

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