Best Vacation & Staycation Spots Around Nashville – From Honky-Tonks to Mountain Retreats
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor planning the ultimate Tennessee getaway, Nashville and its surrounding areas offer no shortage of amazing vacation and staycation spots. From the vibrant energy of Music City to the mountain magic of Dollywood, there’s something for everyone within a few hours’ drive. Here’s a guide to some of the best destinations around Nashville that promise great food, unforgettable experiences, and a much-needed reset.
1. Explore the Heart of Nashville
Let’s start in the city itself. Sometimes the best escape is right in your own backyard. If you haven’t truly staycationed in Nashville, you’re missing out. Check into one of the city’s boutique hotels like The Graduate, Noelle, or The Russell, and play tourist for the weekend. Start with a stroll down Broadway for live music and rooftop bars, but don’t miss the hidden gems like Five Points in East Nashville, known for its indie vibes, record stores, and craft coffee shops.
Must-Dos in Nashville:
– Catch a show at the Ryman Auditorium or the Bluebird Cafe
– Take a mural tour in The Gulch and 12South
– Sip whiskey at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery or go all out at Bourbon Steak
– Relax with a spa day at Rose, the luxury spa at The Joseph hotel
Staycations are all about breaking your routine—so book that room, make a dinner reservation somewhere new, and let yourself unplug right here in Music City.
2. Dollywood & Pigeon Forge: Mountain Fun Meets Southern Charm
Just over three hours east of Nashville, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge is one of Tennessee’s most iconic attractions—and it’s not just for kids. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a culture buff, this mountain resort offers something for everyone.
Dollywood Highlights:
– Thrill rides like Wild Eagle and Lightning Rod
– Live shows featuring Appalachian music and storytelling
– Craftsman’s Valley with handmade goods and demos
– Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort, perfect for relaxing after a day in the park
And if you want a change of scenery, the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife spotting. Stay in a cozy cabin or luxury lodge and enjoy mornings on the porch with mountain views.
3. Leiper’s Fork: Country Roads & Artistic Soul
About 45 minutes from Nashville, Leiper’s Fork is a small town that feels like a world away. This hidden gem offers rolling hills, quaint shops, and an artistic, laid-back vibe that makes for a perfect day trip or overnight stay.
What to Do:
– Browse local art galleries and antiques
– Listen to live music at Fox & Locke (formerly Puckett’s Grocery)
– Enjoy craft cocktails at 1892, a historic house-turned-restaurant
– Stay at a local Airbnb cottage or at Pot N’ Kettle Cottages
Leiper’s Fork is all about slowing down—ideal for creatives, couples, or anyone who wants to disconnect from the hustle.
4. Franklin: Historic Charm with Modern Appeal
Just 30 minutes south of Nashville, Franklin offers the perfect blend of history, shopping, and Southern hospitality. Stroll through its picturesque Main Street, full of boutiques, restaurants, and restored Civil War-era buildings.
Franklin Favorites:
– Learn some history at Carnton Plantation or Lotz House
– Catch a show at the Franklin Theatre
– Grab brunch at 55 South or Gray’s on Main
– Shop vintage, high-end, and everything in between downtown
Franklin is a great choice for a romantic weekend or a girls’ getaway.
5. Chattanooga: Riverfront Adventures & Creative Vibes
If you’re willing to go a bit farther (about two hours southeast), Chattanooga makes for a fantastic mini-vacation. This city has undergone a major transformation in the past decade and now boasts one of the most walkable and beautiful riverfronts in the South.
Top Spots in Chattanooga:
– Tennessee Aquarium (one of the best in the country)
– Scenic views from Lookout Mountain and Rock City
– Thrilling adventures like Incline Railway or whitewater rafting nearby
– Cool neighborhoods like North Shore for dining and shopping
Chattanooga blends outdoor fun with artsy, small-city charm—a great mix for families or friend groups.
Choose Your Own Adventure
Whether you’re soaking in skyline views from a Nashville rooftop, riding coasters at Dollywood, or sipping wine in a historic town, there’s no shortage of incredible vacation or staycation spots near Nashville. You don’t have to go far to find new experiences—just head out in any direction, and you’ll uncover the diverse beauty and fun that Tennessee has to offer.
So, what’s your next stop?
