scenic drive from nashville to knoxville

Trucks and commercial vehicles arent allowed on the parkway. stay for about 1 hour. Benefits: Skip Knoxville traffic, drive through historic towns, enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, Google Maps link:https://goo.gl/maps/957KV9nnXM12. Traveling the Trace is an excellent way to step back in time to an era of the scenic road trip where you take the time to enjoy the trip itself. It was such a fun and memorable experience, and one Sarah and I will talk about for years to come. Popular sites include Jackson, Dunbar Cave and David Crockett State Parks, Tennessee Safari Park, Discovery Park of America, Holly Springs National Forest as well as Graceland. Overton County, Tennessee, is an absolutely STUNNING bit of the state, and we found a million and a half little roads here with great views. How a weekend exploring Chattanooga and Knoxville turned a couple Austinites into lifelong fans of Tennessee. Lots of maps, easy to read text, and photos. 10:00 am start in Nashville drive for about 54 minutes 10:54 am Gordonsville stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:54 am drive for about 34 minutes 12:28 pm Cookeville stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:28 pm drive for about 40 minutes 2:08 pm Crossville stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:08 pm drive for about 1 hour 4:15 pm Loudon (Tennessee) Are there any other scenic backroads to drive along in Tennessee? The Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Hotel has Victorian Train Car hotel rooms right in Downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee. Won't be in a hurry as it seems to only be about 2.5 hours anyway. Also, visit the Wears Valley Chamber of Commerces website for some tips on things to do in Wears Valley. The upper Pigeon offers an exhilarating Class III rapid trip, while the lower river is calmer, offering those who would rather take in the peaceful scenery than get their blood pumping, a chance to float gentle rapids and swim in calm swimming holes. Suggest a scenic route/area about 1hr from Nashville., Nashville, 17 replies Dinner & A Drive . Scratch-Made Dishes, Ice-Cold Drinks, Hot Country Music. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. These 7 Covered Bridges Around Tennessee Are Just Begging To Be Visited On Your Next Road Trip, Take These 10 Country Roads In Tennessee For A Scenic Drive, These 7 Beautiful Byways In Tennessee Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive, Drive To 7 Incredible Summer Spots Throughout Tennessee On This Scenic Weekend Road Trip, Take A 2-Hour Drive Through Tennessee To See This Years Beautiful Fall Colors, This Dreamy Road Trip Will Take You To The Best Fall Foliage In All Of Tennessee, The Lighthouse Road Trip In Tennessee Thats Dreamily Beautiful, Take This Road Trip Through Tennessees Most Picturesque Small Towns For A Charming Experience. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. It provides about 440 miles of driving pleasure! How far is it from Nashville to Knoxville? These voices - and more - on this edition of "Scenic Roots.". At this point, youll take a right to continue onto Highway 23 and continue north until Highway 23 ends. Around 1700 French explorers and traders established a trading post near the present day Natchez and later Fort Rosalie constructed as the European population in the area expanded. After all, the city boasts free music all the time.. Tips to grow your RV rental business. Utilities are underground - water, electric and fiber optics. Often called a National Park Pass, it offers 1-year unlimited entrance to so much more, and includes National Parks, National Forests, National Wildlife Refuges, Bureau of Land Management sites, Bureau of Reclamation sites, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sites!Share time outdoors with family and friends. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its beautiful and diverse scenery. The Trace was the trail that formed from thousands of travelers following this path. The Tail of the Dragon begins in Deal's Gap, Tennessee and takes you on a twisting, turning 318 curves in 11 miles. From there youll take to enter Highway 74, which is where youll continue until you take Exit 74 to US-441. Listen 28:54. Thunder Valley. Official website of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development 2022. Scenic drives abound as visitors explore this dramatic landscape. 733 mi. We think that for many people, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to travel on such a unique train. Dubbed the Scenic City,' and endowed with incredible vistas and popular area attractions, the city has been recognized nationally for its downtown . Youll find authentic charm in Sevierville. A drive that's love to see AND historic. Get more stories delivered right to your email. They're beautiful, with hundreds of miles of trails for walking, hiking, and biking, and tons of waterfalls, ponds, and springs for your enjoyment. We LOVED the energy of the square. Now you know some of the best weekend trips from Nashville Tn or fantastic road trips from Nashville within a 3 to 4 hours scenic drive. Encompassing more than 24,000 acres of wilderness area, Frozen Head State Park and Natural Area is named for a 3,324-foot peak in the Cumberland Mountains. Market Square is one of the most charming places to go in Knoxville, with an array of shops and restaurants lining the cobblestone sidewalks. Pick one and drive on! Did you pick a favorite? Theres just something about the old school and brilliant, exciting, and almost forgotten treks that call to our wanderlust. Explore its historic downtown, boutique shopping, chef-driven restaurants and a wide range of lodging options. Be sure to take your time to enjoy the river running alongside the road and the prepossessingmountain views. 238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211, USA. Over time inns (called stands) and small communities grew up along this route to serve travelers along the trace. No matter what kind of peaceful environment you're seeking - you'll find it in Tennessee's stunning state parks (and in lots of other places, of course). Bleak House, a luxurious mansion that briefly served as a Confederate headquarters, is another highlight of the tour, as is Campbells Station, where the Battle of Knoxville raged. For even more stunning scenery, follow U.S. Highway 441 through the Great Smoky Mountains and enter the Blue Ridge Parkway. Rather than following I-75 to Knoxville, visitors seeking a more scenic drive south can take Highway 25 E south. Photo by Wes Ramey of the Dollywood Company, The Ober Gatlinburg tram in summer next to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Some accounts point to the War of 1812 as the source of this nickname, and others to the MexicanAmerican War. Were in the car so often nowadays that the beauty of nature and the twang of the radio is simply forgotten. Share your thoughts in the comments! Road Trip Guide: Tennessee to North Carolina. Love Tennessee? There sure are! From Atlanta take I-85 North towards Greenville, SC until you come to Exit 113. You will discover 883 acres of unblemished natural landscape that encompasses Center Hill Lake at the juncture of three powerful waterways. The location is by far the coolest location of any aquarium Ive ever seen, sitting right on the Tennessee River. Other attractions include The Johnny Cash Museum, National Corvette Museum and the Nashville Flea Market (held the fourth weekend of every month). Motorcyclists and sports car drivers come from all over the world to make their mark on this iconic road that carves its way through the east Tennessee mountains. By 1900, due to improvements in river travel and the competition from more recent roadways, the Trace had reverted to a wilderness state along much of its original course. In 1801 President Jefferson authorized construction of a national road along the Trace as a national security measure. youll pass right by Dollywood and be dropped off on the parkway in the heart of Pigeon Forge. Carnton. I find the I-40 section to Nashville (or to Knoxville) less "mountain" than the I-24 section to Chattanooga. Choose your own Tennessee vacation and discover new food, classic whiskey, rockin' music, and so much more. Unlimited stops Plan trips worldwide Divide your trip into days Export to GPS or Print and more handy features! Tennessee is a state with a lot to explore, and our road network is excellent for adventuring. Once youve driven through Maryville, youll have a decision between two routes of roughly equal distance. The colors are beautiful in autumn, by the way, so plan accordingly! Road Trips. Find a scenic drive or plan a road trip with myscenicdrives.com Find a Scenic Drive Road Trip Planner Plan, edit, save, and share your custom day trips, weekend getaways, and cross-country adventures. Report inappropriate content 2. Make sure to ride the Lightning Rod, the worlds fastest roller coaster and dont forget to check out other amazing roller coasters like the Wild Eagle and FireChaser Express. It was truly a special place to visit. Another great stop along this route is Wears Valley, a small town with a big personality and lots of history. West Virginia Scenic Drive #1 - The Highland Scenic Highway. Make your way through South Cumberland State Park for a view of Grundy State Forest, a facet of Tennessee protected land that hides not one, not two, but FIVE waterfalls in its heart. The peak is often shrouded in ice or snow in the winter months. THE TENNESSEAN Hotel, Knoxville's only AAA Four Diamond award hotel, is an 82-room personal luxury hotel just steps from the city's iconic Market Square featuring beautiful mountain views. Beginning in Tellico Plains, take the skyway to see some of the most beautiful mountain views in the whole of the state. Best stops along Nashville to Knoxville drive The top stops along the way from Nashville to Knoxville (with short detours) are Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, The Lost Sea Adventure, and Stones River National Battlefield. In the summer, Splash Country, the Dollywood water park, is the place to cool off. The best way to prepare for this trip is to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Im telling you, weve seen a lot of really beautiful places, but this view, especially at sunset, was one of the most stunning. 7 scenic alternative routes to Pigeon Forge that help you skip traffic and see beautiful sights! Get exclusive stories delivered right to your inbox. Learn more about Construction (lettings, bidding, contracts)? Drive three hours east to get to Knoxville, Tenn. Our first morning started off on the right foot, waking up in our tent on the Tennessee Georgia border, just shy of the city. 1. Rocky Top Trail The Great Smoky Mountains are the ultimate Knoxville area getaway, and the Rocky Top Trail offers one of the most scenic ways to see them. Will be driving from Asheville to Knoxville in July for our journey to Nashville. Travelers on this route will take I-40 West Towards Knoxville and follow the interstate to Exit 27in Clyde, NC and enter into Highway 74. Sign up to receive trip ideas and inspiration from Tennessee Tourism. Driving along I-75 south, you'll follow the interstate to US-441 / Henley St. once you pass through Knoxville, rather than entering I-40. The Natchez Trace Parkway runs from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, about 440 miles. The next morning we felt like we had only skimmed the surface on all the great food we had been hearing about in Knoxville, so we headed to a quaint breakfast spot called OliBea in the old part of the city. $115. The best time to fish for trout is between February and March. Over twelve miles of views await you here, chock full of rolling hills and beautiful mountain vistas. Buckle up for a 200-mile journey through the best of Tennessee. Known as Americas Favorite Drive, this is one of the best scenic drives youll find anywhere in the nation. Nashville to New Orleans Road Trip, Via Natchez Parkway, music roadtrip, blues highway, highway 61 blues tour, Map, Itinerary, Tips, Places to stop of . We guess it depends on just what you're looking for out of your Tennessee forest adventure! Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. Plan, edit, save, and share your custom day trips, weekend getaways, and cross-country adventures. Let us know in the comments below, friends, and happy (and safe) driving! 1706 Cumberland Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916. The winding wooded route provides access to hiking trails, and Norris Lake. Events include music festivals, turkey shoots in November, and model airplane competitions in the fall. In fact, this park has more visitors than if you were to combine the total number of people who visit Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. When you research the Pigeon River, youd think it was designed with all levels of white-water rafter in mind. A Nashville to Knoxville road trip will satisfy your craving for an exciting getaway, whether you want to hike through one of Tennessees many state parks or explore the rich history of two of its most iconic cities. This route cut about one third of the distance between Natchez and Nashville off the original Trace. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in East Tennessee, and there are literally hundreds of little, barely-appreciated roads that spin off into a beautiful nature netherworld. We grew up doing summer camp and on occasion did ropes courses and such, but really didnt know what this experience would be like. From there youll be travelling along beautiful Highway 411 north for 25.1 miles, experiencing peaceful ruralviews along the way. In this road trip guide, we'll be highlighting four stops starting in Nashville, the country music capital of the world, and heading east through the Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains to Knoxville. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The cliff-hugging road offers sweeping views, fascinating and diverse flora and fauna, geologic wonders and a myriad of recreation opportunities. Hours Of Operation: Tuesday to Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM, Sundays 1-5 PM. 2. Did we miss any alternative routes? Own a cabin, A-frame, yurt, or other outdoor stay? A National Scenic Byway since 1996, this 42-mile-long road is well-traversed by locals and tourists alike. CMP, Travel the original overland route used by Native Americans and pioneers. Take exit 290 (Cookeville). Regardless of its origin, youll want to follow our peoples example and volunteer to drive on your next road trip. Take US 64 for 26 miles and you'll pass through Cherokee National Forest as you drive next to the Ocoee River. You can hike among beautiful wildflowers and powerful waterfalls at the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, climb to the top of Chimney Tops, or pay respects to early pioneers at Cades Cove. . Read our Privacy Policy. Take a picturesque drive through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a spin around Cades Cove Loop. Belle Meade not only offers tours of Tennessees history and architecture but also provides visitors with a taste of the states hospitality through wine and food pairings, chef-inspired meals, and bourbon tastings. Then when you leave Chattanooga, take I-75 to Knoxville. (615) 741-0803. It's 43 miles of gorgeous, wonderful and great. Wears Valley Chamber of Commerces website, Field Trip Destinations in the Pigeon Forge Area. . Yes! Want to know more? When youre ready to relax for the evening, head to Market Square, near the University of Tennessee. What are the best roadside attractions in Tennessee? Your first stop is the city's famous Gay Street. The Chapman Highway driving route leads you through the Colonial Village and Lake Forest neighborhoods, where youll spot a historic cemetery and nearly 5 miles of walkable trails. We had the privilege of exploring Eastern Tennessee, starting in Chattanooga and making our way up north through Knoxville and eventually arrive in Bristol. See if you can catch a show at the legendary Grand Ole Opry where pop artists and country singers perform or head to a smaller venue like The Bluebird Cafe to see incredible live music in a really intimate space. Are you a Snowbird having trouble finding an RV site along the Gulf Coast? Also by this time a defined trail had taken shape between Natchez and Nashville as an overland return route from farmers and traders who floated their crops and products down the Cumberland, Ohio, and then the Mississippi Rivers to markets in Natchez and New Orleans. Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga on the beautiful riverfront, the Tennessee Aquarium is the top-rated aquarium for guest satisfaction. Land Between the Lakes is a 170,000-acre national recreation area in Western Kentucky located just off I-24, about 90 miles north of Nashville. Stonehaus Winery, 2444 Genesis Rd # 103, Crossville, TN, USA, +1 931 484 9463. Like most of the roads on this list, it's astonishingly beautiful all year, but there's just something about the summer and autumn months that are particularly special. 15 Best Day Trips from Knoxville (TN): Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Blue Ridge, Georgia Roanoke, Virginia Huntsville, Alabama Atlanta, Georgia Chattanooga Alpine Helen, Georgia Maggie Valley Asheville Treetops Adventures Pigeon Forge Great Smoky Mountain National Park Gatlinburg Dollywood Black Mountain Tugaloo State Park Other popular stops include Fall Creek Falls, Cummins Falls State Park, and American Museum of Science and Energy. Come to find out, it was the hotels opening day, which made our time there all the more special. My Camera: https://amzn.to/3tbC8hOA quick drive from I-40 to the World's Fair Park (including the Sunsphere) and Knoxville Convention Center area of Knoxvill. Distance from Nashville: 74 miles, 1 hour and 19 minutes Warren County's positioning between the Barren Fork and Collins River make it a must-visit for outdoor lovers, as do its nearby state parks, Rock Island and Fall Creek Falls. Little River Road daveynin/Flickr Are there other similar things to do in Tennessee when you have a free afternoon? Get exclusive benefits and discounted fees for a limited time. Tags: Around Town, Scenic Drives, Travel Posted in CMP, This Art Modern classic was built in 1934 as a supply route for TVA's first hydroelectric dam. Learn More This route is relatively straightforward, and will take you down a winding path that features breathtaking mountain views. Find Family Fun Under Pigeon Forges Sparkling Lights, Find Authentic Charm Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Sevierville. Comments Off on 4 Scenic Drives Near Knoxville, Toyota Named One of the Most Dependable Brands By, 2023 Toyota GR Corolla: Everything You Need to Know, The Difference Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned Toyotas, The Best Time of Year to Buy a New Toyota. Our trip offered us everything from amazing adventurous hikes, to world-class cuisine, and everything in between. . For those looking to find a bite while in the downtown district, Market Square is the perfect spot for some classic southern cooking. Army troops began clearing brush and building bridges along the trail and in a few years a good section of the trail had been improved from a winding, narrow path to a wider more comfortable road for wagons and horses and began attracting numerous travelers in addition to the Boatmen. Filled with family attractions, music, events, food, drinks, and more, you can choose your own Tennessee vacation. Slate at 901: Things to Do in Knoxville, TN 8. We dont blame you one bit! The road to Camp Nakanawa is right off of I-40, near Crossville. Here you can see Meigs Falls, one of the very few waterfalls you can spot from the road. Cherokee is also home to Harrahs Cherokee Casino, one of the only casinos of the area. ends, youll take a left across a bridge to Henderson Rd., and then your first right onto Henderson Chapel Rd., which will drop you on the Parkway right next to Music Road Resort Hotel. Drive three hours east to get to Knoxville, Tenn. Watch for a large, colorful sign . Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Navigate 27 miles of the beautiful Tennessee River and 27,000 acres carved through the Cumberland Mountains for an incredibly closeup look at wildlife, nature, history and culture. is a national scenic treasure. Fun Fact: Captain William Driver, who flew the U.S. flag in front of his Nashville mansion, is credited with nicknaming the flag "Old Glory" in 1837. The routes are split into four categories, depending on which direction youre coming from. . Running all the way up from Mississippi to Tennessee, Natchez Trace is absolutely gorgeous during summer and even more incredible in the fall. From the mysterious Lost Sea Caverns to the amazing Great Smoky Mountains National Park, youre sure to have a wonderful time as you explore what these cities have to offer. CMP, One of Tennessee's 3 All American Roads, The Trace offers a beautiful drive through more than 10,000 years of interpreted history. . Love Tennessee? Nashville, TN 37203 Click Here for Directions to the Parthenon from Memphis taking the direct I-40 route. The night continued with dinner at one of Knoxvilles newest restaurants, J.C. Holdway, a beautiful farm to table restaurant serving up some amazing local fare and thoughtfully crafted mixed drinks. . Some of the best stops on your drive from Nashville to Knoxville include Rock Island State Park, Frozen Head State Park, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and having some food at Market Square in Knoxville. Whether you want to take a quick break from the city or youd rather plan a long weekend getaway, theres no shortage of natural beauty in the Knoxville area. Once you pass the Sugarlands Riding Stables you should come to the Gatlinburg bypass on your left. This drive along Highway 143 is full of majesty, including wildflowers, rolling mountains, and water features. Once you enter Highway 19 youll see beautiful Lake Junaluska to your right. Along the route are numerous historical markers, restored historical sites and exhibits, rest stop parks, picnic areas, hiking trails, and public campgrounds. We found eleven places around the state of Tennessee yes, even on the west side that are great for driving during the twilight hour, in the afternoon, or even during those light, bright early mornings. Benefits: A beautiful drive down historic Highway 25 E, cool towns along the way such as Morristown, lake and reservoir views, Google Maps link:https://goo.gl/maps/kPV5rbtvnrx. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Grab some snacks and turn on your favorite playlist, its time to hit the road. (youll know to turn when you see the Taco Bell). With no practical way to navigate their craft back up the Mississippi River, the float boats that carried the cargo were disassembled and the lumber sold. ! and enjoy your chicken with traditional southern sides like pimento mac and cheese and creamy coleslaw. Townsend is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as well as Cades Cove. From 1812 to 1815 the Trace was a major route used by Andrew Jacksons Tennessee Volunteers during the War of 1812 and the 1815 Battle of New Orleans. There are, and they're our favorites! The hotel staff was by far one of the friendliest staff weve ever interacted with. Your Middle Tennessee Adventure Starts Here. Read until the very end to learn everything there is to know about this amazing road trip. CMP, Cross the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on this 31 mile byway that includes numerous pull-offs, stopping point, and scenic opportunities. Once you enter Sevierville, take a left onto Veterans Blvd. Grab some snacks and turn on your favorite playlist, it's time to hit the road. It's known as the, "Blues Highway," traveled by legends like Elvis Presley and BB King. A pandemic-friendly activity is to do a car tour of the park's 384 miles of road, . Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Follow this early route from Knoxville to Nashville across the northern plateau. Can I Rent a Car with A Temporary License; Can You Rent A Car For Someone Else; Can You Rent a Car If You Have A DUI? If you dont already own an RV, check out these RV rentals in Nashville for an unforgettable adventure! Building the onramps for "sustainable mobility" at CO.LAB. The 35-mile drive from Crossville (elevation 1,854 feet) to Cookeville (elevation 1,140 feet) is one of the highest stretches of I-40 between Knoxville and Memphis. This mountain pass flirts with both states and will have your camera and selfie game working overtime. The best time of year to drive from Nashville to Knoxville is in the spring. Read our privacy policy. Your best bet is to take Fiery Gizzard Road from Tracey City. You can find many natural wonders, such as Great Falls and Twin Falls. Have lunch at the Seasons of Ober Restaurant for more great views. The idea is a stress free, scenic, and enjoyable ride in an auto, RV, motorcycle, or road bike (theres a special network of rustic campsites reserved for bike riders). Best stops along Knoxville to Asheville drive. We believe in cultivating meaningful experiences. Escalators move you from level to level allowing you to see everything from local river otters to the new Lemur Forest. Looking for more ideas for scenic drives in Tennessee? The Top Secret Trail starts right in town and then heads east through the Upper Cumberland Plateau and through the Appalachian foothills. Take in some history at Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, and then relax by the water at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort. The driving tour starts on Chapman Highway at Fort Dickerson, a site of conflict between the Union and Confederate armies. Explore its historic downtown, boutique shopping, chef-driven restaurants and a wide range of lodging options. The "Mile High Legend" passes through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. . Take U.S. 25/70 toward Marshall and turn left at the first stoplight onto Monticello Road. Hit the open road in your new Toyota and get some fresh air with one of these four scenic drives in the Knoxville area. Today, stroll the street for shopping, dining and entertainment. If you follow Highway 321through Townsend and Wears Valley, youll eventually find yourself on the Parkway, right in the heart of Pigeon Forge. Great River Road actually stretches across ten states as a series of scenic byways. While music may be the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks Nashville, if youre a foodie, Nashville Hot Chicken is a close second. Routes in Tennessee fall into four quadrants, given the state's logistical layout. The town is home to numerous events and festivals, ideal for adding an exciting touch to your scenic trip. Just one hour east of Nashville, Edgar Evins is a hot spot for wildflowers amidst lake views. Get a free Great Smoky Mountains National Park trip planner for inspiring itineraries and essential information. Planning on visiting Pigeon Forge? Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic landscapes, our . Meads Quarry at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee from an overlook along Tharp Trace. Michael.McClanahan@tn.gov From there, we made the easy hour and a half trip north to the birthplace of country music, Bristol, Tennessee. A bonus is you can save gas by driving at a comfortable 50 mph without being hassled by drivers behind you.