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Looking for the perfect Tennessee itinerary that mixes music, history, and mountain adventures? This trip takes you from the bright lights of Nashville to the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains with plenty of unique stops along the way. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a full week, here’s exactly how to fly into Nashville, road trip across Tennessee, and fly out of Knoxville.
We combined a couple’s adventure trip with a family trip & loved the versatility in this area! We could have made a few adjustments and been totally fine traveling with our kids when they were younger.
Day 1 – Arrive in Nashville
- Check into The Fairlane Hotel: Retro-modern style and centrally located.
- Explore Broadway: Neon lights, honky-tonks, and live music everywhere.
- Secret Speakeasy Stop: Red Phone Booth — get the secret code from your hotel concierge for cigars, cocktails, and small bites.
- Dinner & Music: Reservations at the Twelve Thirty Club (a Justin Timberlake & Sam Fox concept). Finish the night with more live music on Broadway or head back to rest.
Day 2 – Nashville Favorites
- Breakfast: Frothy Monkey (local coffee + hearty plates).
- Culture Stop (your choice of museum): we went with Country Music Hall of Fame
- Wander Printers Alley: A historic street filled with nightlife and charm.
- Sip Local: Standard Proof Whiskey (great spot to taste & grab a bottle for the road – we recommend trying the Pecan).
- Lunch: Quick bite on Broadway before heading out.
- Road Trip Leg: Drive toward Hickman County — stay in a charming old farmhouse Airbnb and enjoy a laid-back dinner.
Day 3 – Road to the Smokies
- Morning Stop: Burgess Falls State Park — short hike with gorgeous waterfalls.
- Lunch Break: Buc-ee’s (an experience in itself if you don’t have them at home).
- Arrive in Gatlinburg: Check into a cabin with family, relax, and prep for mountain adventures.
Day 4 – Explore the Smokies
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Spend the day hiking, fishing, and exploring.
- Scenic Drive: Cades Cove Loop (a must for wildlife and mountain views).
- Evening: Dinner + strolling downtown Gatlinburg.
Day 5 – Dollywood & Family Fun
- Dollywood Theme Park: Don’t miss Dolly Parton’s tour bus for some history mixed with fun rides and shows.
- Dinner Show: End the night with a classic Gatlinburg dinner show — cheesy but unforgettable family fun.
Day 6 – Last Adventure
- Sunrise Hike: Walk to Clingman’s Dome (Kuwohi), the highest point in the Smokies.
- More Exploring: Squeeze in extra fishing or hiking.
- Stop in Knoxville: If time allows, grab an early dinner before your flight home.
Pro Tip:
This itinerary is perfect for travelers flying into Nashville and out of Knoxville. It lets you maximize your time without having to backtrack, combining city energy, hidden gems, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Southeast.
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