We all love Music City, but sometimes you just need to get the heck out of Dodge - er - Nashville. We've found ten hot spots that are sure to give your summer weekends the perfect day trips you need, and the peace of mind you desire. Who knows, maybe your favorite spot will make an appearance. Here are 8 amazing places you can go on one tank of gas from Nashville.
We LOVE Watertown! Take the train out or jump in the car, but the forty-five minute drive will feel like nothing compared to the small town fun and quirky characteristics of this Tennessee favorite.
You could use an entire tank of gas driving this behemoth. At over four hundred miles long, the parkway is perfect for a hot cup of coffee and an autumn jaunt through the countryside.
A little over two hours and a time-change away will give you this gorgeous view with enough time to grab dinner and get home before dark. Yes. A million times, yes.
Listed as one of the best places to live in the NATION - yeah, you heard us right, thirty minutes from the city will put you smack dab in the middle of small town America. Walk their downtown streets and check their event calendar for some fun activities to prioritize throughout the year.
We. Love. Bell Buckle. Located roughly an hour from town, you can get an infusion of small town sweetness and calorie dense goodies that will leave you forever changed. But really - visit during the RC Cola & Moon Pie Festival! It's fantastic.
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What does your summer hold for you...? What are some other places you can go on one tank of gas from Nashville?
There’s something magical about the scenic drives in Nashville. A backroad, an open window, a great country song on the radio, and someone you love at the wheel – it’s got all the makings of a great time. Nashville scenic drives are an experience that drills itself into your heart and helps you to disassociate from the crazy going on outside that truck cab. I’ve found nine wonderful places to drive around Nashville, which are perfect for you to traverse during light-filled, late evenings – care to join?
The most popular of all Nashville scenic drives, the famed Natchez Trace Parkway runs through multiple states and is located just south of Nashville. It's a great road trip to take if you're looking to head to Mississippi, or just stay on the road for a while. It simply never ends.
Located to the north of Tennessee, Graycroft is studded with old ranch homes and overhanging tree limbs. If you're looking for a way to stay off of Gallatin, this is the prettiest way to do it.
One of the most peaceful places to drive around Nashville, this gorgeous Madison road leads you on a winding, tree-ensconced drive to Peeler Park. You'll want to head down this way over and over.
Wait, are we in Nashville?! Yes, yes you are. You haven't wandered into the horse laden properties of Williamson County, you're right here. And yes, that is love you're feeling.
Whites Creek Pike leads you to the homey community of Whites Creek - we know, you're shocked. It's a darling area that caters to young families looking for land. Want to stretch your legs? Check out Adventureworks, which is home to the longest canopy walk in Nashville.
Winding through one of the most beautiful towns in Tennessee, Clarksville Pike leads you back up into the hills of Nashville, carrying you away from city limits and out onto side roads like this one, proudly boasting a barn and open field. We'll take it!
Wait - it's a highway! Yes, Briley Parkway is a highway that circles the entirety of Nashville. It's a prettier and less trafficked alternative to Highway 65.
If you dare to drive Hillsboro Pike past its infamous Green Hills beginning, you'll be treated to multi-million dollar homes and the greenest foliage this side of the city.
Tyne Boulevard is located out near Hillsboro Pike, another great road to drive if you're looking to ogle at the houses of the rich and famous or plot your own rise to Nashville's hall of house fame.
So, what do you think? Are these the best scenic drives near Nashville? Know of any other beautiful places to drive around Nashville? Of all the Nashville scenic drives, which are your favorites? Tell us!
While these drives aren't quite your typical road trip if they inspire you to next time take a longer drive, be sure to use our helpful ultimate road trip packing list!
You’re bound to get hungry after your mini-road trip, providing the perfect opportunity to check out these famous restaurants in Nashville. You’re bound to find a new favorite!
Everyone knows that the two most invigorating things in the world are searching for treasure and traveling. Or, at least, every pirate knows that, but we think they just might be on to something. For those of you who don't have time to sail the seven seas or commit international crimes, there's a fantastic alternative just for you: these thrift stores in Nashville road trip! This itinerary will take you to the best bargain bins in town. Just be sure to keep an eye out for treasure...
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If you want to follow along on our road trip for yourself, you can use this helpful map.
Editor's Note: two of these Thrift Stores have, sadly, closed their doors for good. Both Our Thrift Store and 12th Ave Thrift are no longer in business and we replaced them on this list, but we loved them so much that we had to give a quick shout-out to the amazing value they gave to our city. Want to replace these stops on your road trip with another Nashville favorite? Though it's not a thrift store, Flora Plant Shop is full of charm.
This quirky little thrift shop in the Nations is a true hidden gem. Also, we're not sure who Dave is, or why he's crazy (maybe this is where the guy from Plants Verse Zombies went), but we're not complaining about half-price pants. For more information please visit the This N That Thrift Shop website.
Southern Thrift has three different locations around the city, but the favorite one for locals is the West Nashville location. Be sure to check out the basement when you go! For more information please visit the Southern Thrift website.
Ok so we will declare that The Hip Zipper was the most unique thrift store on this list, but, this next one has it literally in the name. The Unique Thrift Store is on the Charlotte Pike strip of thrift stores, and they live up to their name. They've got one of the biggest thrift furniture sections in the city. They truly specialize in finding the perfect fit for your home and your style, so let the bargain hunting begin! If you would like to learn more check out the Unique Thrift Store Facebook page.
At Buffalo Exchange, you can buy, sell, and make good use out of old clothes. What can be someone's trash can be your treasure and end up in your closet. The racks are always stocked with interesting finds so make sure you check it out! For more information please visit the Buffalo Exchange website. Visit at 2214 Elliston Pl.
The Hip Zipper not only breathes new life into old clothes but creates an entirely new style all on its own. These clothes might hark back to a time long forgotten in fashion but this store puts it front and center, giving each piece a unique flare. Not only do they bring back old styles but they give them new life. This is probably the most unique thrift store on our list and deserves a visit. If you want to learn more please visit The Hip Zipper website.
ThriftSmart is actually one of the largest thrift stores in the city! If you're looking for the biggest variety, look no further. Cds, books, clothes, and so much more can be found at this lovely shop. This is a store that works hard to impact the community in a variety of ways and that's just one of the reasons people love shopping here. For more information please visit the ThriftSmart website then check out this testimonial video they made about their store:
Music City Thrift in South Nashville is known for their absolutely incredible selections of clothes, furniture, and books. You never know what kind of treasure you can find on the racks or on the shelf, for any more information please visit the Music City Thrift website. There is also a location in Smyrna if that is closer to you, or check them both out!
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Visit at 3780 Nolensville Pike.
So did you shop till you drop? These are some pretty amazing thrift stores in Nashville, so make sure you visit each one. Then after your treasure hunt, stop by one of Nashville's coolest restaurants for the best rolls in the city.
