One of my favorite things about Knoxville is how many incredible escapes are tucked just a short drive away. Whether we headed toward the mountains, rolled through small towns, or cruised into big cities, every day trip brought its own kind of magic. Some were peaceful, like the quiet power of Cumberland Falls. Some were full of rhythm and energy, like a day in Nashville. All of them reminded me that adventure doesn’t need a plane ticket—just a good playlist and the right direction.
We hiked, we sipped, we strolled. And in the in-between moments—on winding roads, in conversations over coffee, or standing in front of a view that made us both stop talking—we remembered why these little escapes matter.
Best Day Trips from Knoxville:
Exploring arts and views in Chattanooga - 1 hour and 45 minutes from Knoxville
Chattanooga had just the right blend of mountain calm and city charm. We parked near the riverwalk and wandered toward the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the country. The view stretched wide over the Tennessee River, and I remember thinking, “This is what a city feels like when it breathes.” We moved at an easy pace—checking out local galleries, poking into bookstores, and ending up at the edge of the bluff just in time for golden hour.
What I Loved Most: The peaceful walk across the bridge and the murals hidden in side streets around every corner.
My highlights? Lunch at The Blue Plate downtown. I had the shrimp and grits—creamy, smoky, and topped with fried green tomatoes. Sitting by the windows watching the city roll by felt like a gift.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Knoxville: ~1 hour 45 minutes southwest
- Vibe: Artsy, scenic, friendly
- Highlights: Walnut Street Bridge, Bluff View Art District, Tennessee Aquarium
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for riverfront walks and patio dining
- Cost: Free to explore; attraction admission varies
- Hours: Most attractions 10am–6pm; parks open dawn to dusk
Discovering mountain charm in Abingdon, VA - 1 hour and 45 minutes from Knoxville
Abingdon had this sweet, creative energy—like a town where artists and storytellers quietly thrive. We started at the Barter Theatre, even just admiring it from the outside, and wandered into shops filled with pottery and books. I remember thinking, “Why does this place feel like a secret I get to keep?” There’s a gentleness to Abingdon—perfect for slowing down and just enjoying the moment.
What I Loved Most: Walking the Virginia Creeper Trail for a bit, then resting under a shady tree while the world stayed quiet.
My highlights? Brunch at 128 Pecan, where I had the Southern Benedict—cornbread base, poached eggs, and country ham with hollandaise. It was soulful and hearty, like everything Abingdon stands for.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Knoxville: ~2 hours northeast
- Vibe: Artistic, walkable, inviting
- Highlights: Barter Theatre, Virginia Creeper Trail, artisan shops
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for art and outdoor events
- Cost: Mostly free; theatre tickets and meals extra
- Hours: Shops and cafés open 10am–6pm; trails open dawn to dusk
Slowing down in Lexington, KY - 2 hours and 45 minutes by car
Lexington felt like a living postcard—brick sidewalks, horse-drawn carriages, and college-town energy without the noise. We strolled through historic streets and toured the Lee Chapel at Washington & Lee, letting the slower pace set the tone. I remember thinking, “Some places invite you to listen, not just look.” It was calm, thoughtful, and full of subtle charm.
What I Loved Most: The tucked-away corners and gardens around the university, where we sat for a while and just talked.
My highlights? A meal at Bistro on Main, where I had grilled trout with herbed butter and lemon risotto. Quiet music, warm lighting, and the kind of atmosphere that made us linger long after dessert.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Knoxville: ~2.5 hours northeast
- Vibe: Historic, academic, peaceful
- Highlights: Washington & Lee campus, Lee Chapel, boutique shopping
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for campus tours and colors
- Cost: Free to explore; optional museum donations
- Hours: Attractions 10am–5pm; some campus areas open all day
Feeling the rhythm in Nashville, TN - 2 hours and 45 minutes
Nashville had a pulse that you could feel as soon as you stepped onto Broadway. But beyond the honky-tonks and neon, there were quiet cafes, old neighborhoods, and the kind of music that hits you right in the chest. I remember thinking, “This city is more than country songs—it’s a full-on love letter to sound.” We ducked into record shops, walked the pedestrian bridge, and watched the sunset with the skyline glowing in gold.
What I Loved Most: Catching a live acoustic set at a dive bar, just us and the music and a handful of strangers tapping their feet.
My highlights? Dinner at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor, where I had the falafel burger with tzatziki, a side of sweet potato fries, and a hand-spun chocolate malt. Loud, fun, and just messy enough to be perfect.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Knoxville: ~3 hours west
- Vibe: Musical, eclectic, high-energy
- Highlights: Broadway, live music, record shops, pedestrian bridge
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall; weekday visits avoid the biggest crowds
- Cost: Free to explore; venues and food vary widely
- Hours: Most venues open by noon; nightlife runs late
Romantic Day Trips from Knoxville:
Chasing waterfalls at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park - 1 hour and 30 minutes
Cumberland Falls wasn’t just beautiful—it was powerful. We stood on the overlook as the waterfall thundered into the gorge below, mist rising like breath. I remember thinking, “This is what nature looks like when it’s showing off.” The trails were peaceful, the river steady, and the whole day felt grounded in something older and wilder than we were.
What I Loved Most: Hiking Eagle Falls Trail and seeing the big waterfall from a new angle—hidden, quiet, and magical.
My highlights? Lunch at DuPont Lodge Restaurant inside the park. I had fried catfish with hush puppies and slaw, and we split a slice of warm blackberry cobbler with ice cream. It tasted like home.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Knoxville: ~2 hours northwest
- Vibe: Rugged, powerful, restorative
- Highlights: Cumberland Falls, hiking trails, scenic overlooks
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall; visit during full moon for moonbow
- Cost: Free entry; meals and lodging optional
- Hours: Park open daily dawn to dusk
Unwinding in Blue Ridge, GA - 2 hours and 15 minutes by car
Blue Ridge felt like a deep breath in the form of a town. Tucked in the mountains, filled with charm, and blessed with cool air and kind people—it was exactly the kind of getaway I needed. I remember thinking, “Why haven’t I come here before?” We browsed galleries, rode the scenic railway, and ended the day sipping wine overlooking the hills.
What I Loved Most: Sitting in rocking chairs outside a winery, watching clouds roll over the mountains in silence.
My highlights? Dinner at Harvest on Main, where I had the pecan-crusted trout with garlic grits and sautéed greens. Warm service, fresh ingredients, and mountain air all around us.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Knoxville: ~2.5 hours south
- Vibe: Cozy, artsy, mountain-fresh
- Highlights: Scenic Railway, art galleries, wineries, lake views
- Best Time to Visit: Fall for foliage, spring for festivals
- Cost: Free to explore; attractions and dining vary
- Hours: Shops open 10am–6pm; restaurants 11am–9pm
Go Far Enough to Feel Something New
Each of these day trips gave me a fresh view, a deeper breath, or a new story to tell. From Abingdon’s artistic quiet to the hum of Chattanooga’s riverfront, I came home from every journey feeling a little more grounded—and somehow a little lighter too.
If you're in Knoxville and need a break from the routine, let the road guide you. Take the detour, order dessert, and stay long enough to watch the sky change. Sometimes the best part of the day is the part you didn’t plan.
More to explore...
Planning your next adventure? Check out these ideas to keep the inspiration flowing: