Nashville’s a happenin’ honky tonk kinda town. But sometimes, you just need a break from all that hustlin’ and bustlin’. When that happens, these five road trips provide the perfect escape without draining your gas tank. From historical towns to serene state parks, these one-tank trips are perfecto for a day trip or full-on weekend getaway.
The spots listed below are all within 300 miles (round-trip) of Nashville, TN. We’ve also noted where you can expect to find nearby charging if you’re in an electric vehicle.
1. Bell Buckle, Tennessee
Total mileage: 102 miles
Tucked into the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee, Bell Buckle is a charming small town with a big personality. Known for its art galleries, cozy cafes, and antique shops, this friendly small town also hosts fun events like the RC Cola and MoonPie Festival.
Don’t miss: Bell Buckle Café is famous for its Southern comfort food, so don’t skip the chance to try their fried green tomatoes or pecan pie. Stroll downtown to shop for antiques, local art, and handmade quilts. If you’re visiting in June, don’t miss the RC Cola-MoonPie Festival, a wacky, family-friendly event celebrating two iconic southern treats.
Stay: The Seasons Bed and Breakfast is a charming, vintage-inspired bed and breakfast in the heart of town. It’s the perfect spot for an overnight stay if you want to fully soak in Bell Buckle’s warm and welcoming ambiance.
Charge: EV charging stations are located nearby in Murfreesboro along I-24, about a 20-minute drive from Bell Buckle.
2. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Tennessee/Kentucky
Total mileage: 170 miles
Straddling the Tennessee and Kentucky border, Land Between the Lakes is a sprawling natural playground with nearly 200,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and scenic lake views. It offers the perfect outdoor playground near Nashville.
Don’t miss: The Elk & Bison Prairie is a 700-acre enclosure where you can see these majestic animals up close from the comfort of your car. Check out the Golden Pond Planetarium, where you can learn about the night sky in an interactive and family-friendly setting.
Stay: Piney Campground offers beautiful lakeside camping with amenities for tents and RVs. For a sticks-and-bricks stay, check out Aurora’s Kentucky Lake Cottages.
Charge: You’ll find charging stations in Dover, Tennessee, and Murray, Kentucky, making it easy to power up in either direction.
3. Lynchburg, Tennessee
Total mileage: 150 miles
Lynchburg may be a small town, but it’s home to one of Tennessee’s most famous brands: Jack Daniel’s. The historic distillery draws visitors worldwide, and touring the facility is an experience. Apart from the distillery, Lynchburg’s town square is filled with charming shops and boutiques where you can find local crafts and unique gifts.
Don’t miss: Book a Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tour to learn about the whiskey-making process and the history behind this iconic brand. For an expansive option, consider the “Angel’s Share” tour, which includes a premium tasting.
Stay: The Mulberry Lavender Farm and B&B sits in a rural setting and offers a charming stay within easy range of the distillery and downtown Lynchburg, TN.
Charge: EV charging stations are available in Tullahoma, an easy 15-minute drive from Lynchburg.
4. Rock Island State Park
Total mileage: 168 miles
Rock Island State Park is a breathtaking natural escape featuring waterfalls, rugged trails, and natural swimming holes. Located near the Cumberland Plateau, it’s perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. Swimming areas provide a refreshing escape in the warmer months. Picnic zones also abound in the park for a fun change to the culinary routine.
Don’t miss: Twin Falls is the star attraction, with water cascading down rugged cliffs into the river below. Be sure to check out the Blue Hole swimming area for a cool dip, or visit the Great Falls Dam, a photographer’s dream with views of the falls and surrounding cliffs.
Stay: Rock Island State Park offers cabin rentals for overnight stays. The main campground also has RV sites with hookups available.
Charge: EV charging stations are located in McMinnville, about 20 minutes from the park.
Enjoy waterfalls and wine in Tennessee’s Cumberland Mountains
5. Paducah, Kentucky
Total mileage: 290 miles
Paducah is a historic river town brimming with creative energy and unique attractions. Known as a UNESCO Creative City, Paducah has a thriving arts scene anchored by the National Quilt Museum and a lively collection of local galleries and studios.
Don’t miss: The National Quilt Museum is a must-see, with a rotating collection of stunning textile art that’ll reshape the way you think about quilts. Wander down to the Paducah Riverfront to see the impressive floodwall murals, a 50-panel masterpiece that tells the story of Paducah’s history and connection to the Ohio River.
Stay: The 1857 Hotel, located in a beautifully restored building downtown, is a boutique hotel that combines vintage charm with modern amenities.
Charge: Paducah has over 34 charging stations for easy top-ups while exploring town.
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