Day Trips from Knoxville, Tennessee

By VacationIdea Staff | Affiliate Disclosure

Tennessee

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Q: What makes Knoxville, TN an ideal location for day trips?
A: Knoxville, TN is a hub city located off I-40, I-75, and close to I-80, making it within a day’s drive of half of the continental United States.
Q: What are some exciting day trips from Knoxville?
A: Here are some of the most exciting day trips from Knoxville, TN, offering visitors a variety of nearby destinations to explore.

Best Time for Day Trips from Knoxville, Tennessee

April to June – Ideal for mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and exploring the Great Smoky Mountains.
September to October – Perfect for vibrant fall foliage, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures.
July & August – Warm summer days great for lake trips, hiking, and family outings.
November – Enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds at historical and cultural sites.
December to March – Mild winters ideal for cozy retreats, indoor attractions, and mountain getaways.

⮕ Chattanooga

Walk along the riverfront and explore cool art districts on a quick trip.

Chattanooga

Why is Chattanooga known as the scenic city?
- Chattanooga is known as the scenic city because of its beautiful mountain landscapes and its revitalized and vibrant riverfront district with unique hotels.
What is The Riverwalk in Chattanooga?
- The Riverwalk is a 13-mile paved road designed for pedestrian foot traffic that connects some of the best and most popular attractions in the historic city.
What attractions can visitors explore along The Riverwalk?
- Visitors can explore parks, restaurants, riverboat marinas, and more by foot or by taking the free electric shuttle.
Where can outdoor adventure seekers go in Chattanooga?
- Visitors looking for outdoor adventures can head to Lookout Mountain or stay in town and take a stroll through Coolidge Park to see the century-old restored carousel.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Chattanooga?
- Family-friendly attractions include The Chattanooga Zoo, Tennessee Aquarium, and Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park.

Best Time to Visit	Places to Stay	Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers.	The Edwin Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel with riverfront views.	Visit Rock City Gardens – See stunning views and unique rock formations.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for outdoor adventures.	The Chattanoogan Hotel – A modern stay in the heart of the city.	Take a cruise on the Tennessee River – Enjoy scenic boat tours and river activities.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful autumn foliage.	Bluff View Inn – A charming bed & breakfast with historic charm.	Ride the Incline Railway – Experience the world’s steepest passenger railway to Lookout Mountain.

⮕ Abingdon, VA

Visit the Barter Theatre and stroll the charming streets during a romantic weekend.

Abingdon, VA

What makes Southwest Virginia special?
- Southwest Virginia has some of the most beautiful landscapes on the east coast, and Abingdon, VA is less than two hours from Knoxville.
Why visit Abingdon, VA?
- This serene Virginia mountain town features amazing dining and signature events that draw in crowds from across the nation and world.
What major events take place in Abingdon?
- Nationally acclaimed music artists perform on the Barter Theater stage during winter months, and visitors can also enjoy the Virginia Creeper Fest in April and The Highlands Festival in the summer.
What are the must-see attractions in Abingdon?
- Some must-see attractions in Abingdon include the Martha Washington Inn and Spa, Grayson Highlands State Park, The Great Channels, and the famous Appalachian Trail.

⮕ Greenville, SC

Bike on the Swamp Rabbit Trail and explore Falls Park with family.

Greenville, SC

Why is Greenville a great place for history lovers?
- Greenville is steeped in history and a great place to visit historical landmarks and learn about the beginning days of the United States.
What makes Greenville a cultural destination?
- Today, Greenville is a cultural destination and home to more than 250 international businesses and a vibrant downtown supported by those businesses.
What major institutions are located in Greenville?
- Greenville is also home to the historic Clemson University and is the most populated city in the state, which means there is no limit to entertainment and attractions in the area.
What are some of the most popular attractions in Greenville?
- Some of the most popular attractions include The Gorge Zipline, which is the steepest and fastest in America, the Greenville Zoo, River Falls Spa, and the BMW Performance Center.

⮕ Lexington, KY

Tour horse farms and visit bourbon distilleries on a fall trip.

Lexington, KY

Why is Lexington known as the "Horse Capital of the World"?
- If you’re a fan of horses, you have to visit Lexington, the "Horse Capital of the World". The city was founded in 1775 and is known for being part of the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky.
What is the Kentucky Horse Park?
- The Kentucky Horse Park is a must-see attraction featuring a 1,200-acre campus with museums, art galleries, and all 50 breeds of horses on-site.
What historical sites can visitors explore in Lexington?
- Visitors can take horse farm tours, visit historic homes belonging to Mary Todd Lincoln and the family of Daniel Boone, among others.
What is unique about Shaker Village in Lexington?
- The largest Shaker Village that has been restored is also in Lexington, with the original 34 buildings still intact on 3,000 acres.
What are other popular attractions in Lexington?
- Many people love to visit the Keeneland Race Course and explore the famous Kentucky Bourbon distilleries.

⮕ Nashville, TN

Explore live music venues and visit country music landmarks with kids.

Nashville, TN

Why is Nashville called "Music City"?
- Music City is home to the best musical entertainment and live music venues in the world.
What are some of the best landmarks in Nashville?
- Some of the best landmarks in Nashville include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and Centennial Park, where you can see a life-size replica of The Parthenon.
Where can country music fans go in Nashville?
- If you love country music, you’ll want to stop by the Grand Ole Opry, one of the most iconic music venues in the city.
Where can visitors experience local culture in Nashville?
- Take a walk through East Nashville, Hillsboro Village, or 12South to experience the local culture, music, food, and shopping.
Where can visitors experience the real Nashville music scene?
- While exploring, spend some time on Lower Broadway to get a taste of the real Nashville music scene.

⮕ Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

See the moonbow and hike riverside trails during spring.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Where is Cumberland Falls State Resort Park located?
- Cumberland Falls State Resort Park in Corbin is approximately one and a half hours from Knoxville and offers a relaxing retreat in the beautiful hillside of southern Kentucky.
What activities are available at Cumberland Falls?
- Visitors can spend the day at the golf course, enjoy the lake, go horseback riding, or explore hiking trails. The park also offers tennis and volleyball courts for sports enthusiasts.
What family-friendly activities can be enjoyed?
- Children and adults alike can enjoy gem mining, birding, fishing, and picnicking within the park.
What accommodations are available for overnight stays?
- Visitors can stay in a lodge, cottage, or campsite if they would like overnight accommodations.
What makes DuPont Lodge special?
- The historic DuPont Lodge features large stone fireplaces, amazing views, and a large observation deck that overlooks the Cumberland River.

⮕ Blue Ridge, GA

Ride the scenic railway and explore mountain shops on a weekend getaway.

Blue Ridge, GA

Where is Blue Ridge located?
- Just over two hours from Knoxville, Tennessee, visitors can experience luxurious mountain cabins, breathtaking natural landscapes, and well-maintained trails leading to waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Foothills.
What outdoor activities are available in Blue Ridge?
- Visitors can enjoy the area all year round, with excellent trout fishing in the spring and exciting outdoor recreation through the summer.
What is Downtown Blue Ridge like?
- Downtown Blue Ridge has an artsy vibe with many local galleries, a performance theater, and craft breweries.
What is the music scene like in Blue Ridge?
- The live music scene is vibrant throughout this mountain town, which is also home to the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and its historic depot.

⮕ Roanoke, VA

Admire skyline views and visit museums on a retirement trip.

Roanoke, VA

Where is Roanoke located?
- Historic Roanoke is only four hours from Knoxville and is an island set against the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.
What is Roanoke famous for?
- The island is famous for the lost colony of Roanoke, established by Walter Raleigh in 1585.
What outdoor activities are available in Roanoke?
- Roanoke is America’s East Coast Mountain Biking Capital, with many opportunities for outdoor recreation such as kayaking and paddling on the Upper James River Water Trail.
What can visitors do indoors in Roanoke?
- Visitors who prefer the great indoors can explore galleries, museums, and boutiques in historic downtown Roanoke.
Does Roanoke have cultural events and nightlife?
- The historic city also hosts many cultural events and festivals and has an exciting nightlife for adults.
What lodging options are available in Roanoke?
- There are several hotels, bed & breakfasts, inns, and motels, as well as cabins and campgrounds for accommodations.

⮕ Huntsville, AL

Explore space exhibits and walk through botanical gardens with kids.

Huntsville, AL

What makes Huntsville a vibrant city?
- Huntsville is a vibrant Southern city with a bustling culture and rich history.
What historical and cultural attractions can visitors explore in Huntsville?
- Huntsville is home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Burritt on the Mountain, Historic Huntsville Depot, and Alabama Constitution Village.
Which historic neighborhoods can visitors explore?
- Huntsville features three historic neighborhoods to explore—Five Points, Old Town, and Twickenham.
How can visitors experience Huntsville’s history?
- The history of Huntsville from the Civil War through the Space Age can be explored through guided walking tours.
What outdoor activities are available in Huntsville?
- Visitors wanting to explore the great outdoors in Huntsville can spend the day at Ditto Landing on the Tennessee River, hike at Monte Sano State Park, or take self-guided tours of the city’s urban walking and biking trails.
What dining options are available in Huntsville?
- On your trip, be sure to leave plenty of time to explore the great restaurants in Huntsville.

⮕ Atlanta, GA

Visit world-class museums and walk through Centennial Park on a summer adventure.

Atlanta, GA

Why is Atlanta considered the heart of the South?
- If you want to visit the heart of the South, there is no better place to spend the day than Atlanta. The state capital is also the largest city in Georgia and offers dozens of attractions steeped in history, culture, and entertainment.
What are the most popular attractions in Atlanta?
- Some of the most popular attractions in the city include:
What dining and lodging options are available in Atlanta?
- Atlanta is a large metropolitan city with endless options for dining and lodging to suit any budget, style, and needs.
How far is Atlanta from Knoxville, and is it good for a multi-day trip?
- Atlanta is only three hours away from Knoxville and offers enough entertainment for multi-day trips.

Map:

Plan Your Trip

Table of Contents:

1. Chattanooga
2. Abingdon, VA
3. Greenville, SC
4. Lexington, KY
5. Nashville, TN
6. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
7. Blue Ridge, GA
8. Roanoke, VA
9. Huntsville, AL
10. Atlanta, GA