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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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Week Tennessee Road Trip Itinerary for Couple

Week Tennessee Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Nashville

Start your road trip in Nashville, the vibrant capital of Tennessee. Explore the famous Country Music Hall of Fame, visit the historic Ryman Auditorium, and enjoy live performances on Broadway. Don't forget to indulge in some delicious southern cuisine.

Day 2-3: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Head east to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a natural wonderland. Spend a couple of days exploring the park's scenic drives, hiking trails, and breathtaking mountain views. Don't miss Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife.

Day 4: Chattanooga

Travel south to Chattanooga, a charming city nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Visit the Tennessee Aquarium, take a scenic walk on the Walnut Street Bridge, and explore Lookout Mountain for stunning views and rock formations.

Day 5-6: Memphis

Continue west to Memphis, a city steeped in music history. Visit Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, and explore Sun Studio, where legendary musicians recorded their hits. Experience the vibrant nightlife and indulge in barbecued specialties.

Day 7: Gatlinburg

End your road trip in Gatlinburg, a picturesque mountain town near the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, take a scenic drive through the Smokies, and visit the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community for unique local crafts.

This week-long Tennessee road trip offers a perfect mix of music, nature, and southern hospitality. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!


Recommended Activities

  • Nashville, also known as Music City, is a vibrant and energetic city with a rich musical heritage. It is home to the famous Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and numerous live music venues. Visitors can enjoy live performances, explore the historic Music Row, and experience the vibrant nightlife.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers breathtaking mountain views, diverse wildlife, and over 800 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, go camping, fishing, and experience the beauty of nature.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Chattanooga

    Chattanooga is a charming city nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It offers a combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Tennessee Aquarium, visit the historic Lookout Mountain, take a riverboat cruise on the Tennessee River, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
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  • Memphis is a city famous for its rich musical history, particularly as the birthplace of blues music and the home of legendary musicians like Elvis Presley. Visitors can explore iconic attractions such as Graceland, Sun Studio, and Beale Street, which is known for its vibrant live music scene and delicious southern cuisine.
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  • Gatlinburg is a picturesque mountain town located at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers stunning natural scenery, outdoor adventure activities, and a charming downtown area. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic drives, skiing at Ober Gatlinburg, explore the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, and experience the friendly mountain hospitality.
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Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    Skull's Rainbow Room

    Skull's Rainbow Room

    Located in Nashville, this unique restaurant offers a blend of live music, classic cocktails, and fine dining. Experience the speakeasy vibe with a dash of history and enjoy the energetic atmosphere.
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    The Wild Plum Tea Room

    The Wild Plum Tea Room

    Situated in Gatlinburg, this charming tea room offers a delightful experience with its vintage decor and delectable homemade food. Treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon tea and indulge in their famous plum pudding.
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    Sticky Fingers Ribhouse

    Sticky Fingers Ribhouse

    With locations in Chattanooga and other cities, this barbecue joint is a must-visit for meat lovers. Enjoy mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and flavorful sauces in a casual and fun atmosphere.
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    The Arcade Restaurant

    The Arcade Restaurant

    Located in Memphis, this historic restaurant is the oldest café in the city. Step back in time with its vintage decor, jukebox tunes, and classic American diner fare, including delicious breakfast options.
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  • Sunspot

    Situated in Knoxville, Sunspot is a sustainable restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table dining. Enjoy a diverse menu of globally inspired dishes using locally sourced ingredients, with vegan and vegetarian options available.
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  • Alleia

    In Chattanooga, Alleia is an Italian trattoria offering rustic and delicious regional Italian cuisine. With a cozy ambiance and an ever-changing menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients, it's perfect for an intimate dining experience.
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    Catherine & Mary's

    Catherine & Mary's

    Located in Memphis, Catherine & Mary's is a modern Italian restaurant drawing inspiration from Sicilian and Tuscan flavors. Enjoy creative pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and an extensive wine selection.
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    The Pancake Pantry

    The Pancake Pantry

    A Nashville institution since 1961, The Pancake Pantry is a must-visit for breakfast lovers. Choose from a variety of mouthwatering pancake flavors and enjoy a hearty meal to start your day off right.
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Hotels

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    Urban Cowboy Bed & Breakfast

    Urban Cowboy Bed & Breakfast

    Located in Nashville, this unique bed and breakfast combines rustic charm with a touch of urban luxury. Each room is thoughtfully designed and captures the spirit of Music City, providing a memorable and immersive experience.
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    Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa

    Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa

    Situated in Pigeon Forge, this resort offers a magical experience inspired by Dolly Parton's vision. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, whimsical decorations, and a range of amenities, including a luxurious spa.
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    The Read House

    The Read House

    Located in Chattanooga, The Read House is a historic hotel that combines timeless elegance with modern amenities. Immerse yourself in the hotel's rich history and take in the stunning architecture and luxurious accommodations.
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    The Peabody Memphis

    The Peabody Memphis

    A legendary hotel in Memphis, The Peabody is known for its famous resident ducks that march through the lobby daily. Enjoy classic elegance, exceptional service, and a prime location in the heart of downtown Memphis.
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    Blackberry Farm

    Blackberry Farm

    Set in the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Farm offers a luxurious and unique escape. Indulge in farm-to-table dining, enjoy outdoor activities, and unwind in elegant accommodations surrounded by natural beauty.
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    The Tennessean Hotel

    The Tennessean Hotel

    Located in Knoxville, The Tennessean Hotel offers a modern and sophisticated experience in the heart of downtown. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city, luxurious rooms, and world-class amenities for a memorable stay.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Bonnaroo Music + Arts Festival

    Bonnaroo Music + Arts Festival

    The event will take place at Great Stage Park in Manchester.
    Map IconGreat Stage Park in Manchester (14.46 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
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  • Event Icon

    Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival

    Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival

    The event will take place at Great Stage Park in Manchester.
    Map IconGreat Stage Park in Manchester (15.69 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
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  • Event Icon

    Fruit Bats

    Fruit Bats

    The event will take place at The Caverns in Pelham.
    Map IconThe Caverns in Pelham (17.3 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Jul 2024
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  • Event Icon

    Aaron Lewis

    Aaron Lewis

    The event will take place at The Caverns in Pelham.
    Map IconThe Caverns in Pelham (17.3 mi)
    Calendar Icon3 Aug 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    The 2:49 route is my favorite to take. Its slower but its a nicer drive down 111 than across 70 through McMinnville. Beware of cops though in the small towns. They like their ...

    Rate the TN portion of my road trip!

    The 2:49 route is my favorite to take. Its slower but its a nicer drive down 111 than across 70 through McMinnville. Beware of cops though in the small towns. They like their ...

    /r/Tennessee
  • Reddit Icon

    My girlfriend and I are planning on leaving for Tennessee on 12/30/17 and returning on 01/07/17. We live in Northern Virginia, it will take us about 7 hours to get into TN. I ...

    Where should we road trip to in TN?

    My girlfriend and I are planning on leaving for Tennessee on 12/30/17 and returning on 01/07/17. We live in Northern Virginia, it will take us about 7 hours to get into TN. I ...

    /r/Tennessee
  • Reddit Icon

    Stop at Newfound Gap, the highest point on Newfound Gap Rd, to check out the views. If you have time, take the road up to Clingmans Dome (if the weather is clear) and go up to...

    Roadtripping thru TN and heard great things. Any places to ...

    Stop at Newfound Gap, the highest point on Newfound Gap Rd, to check out the views. If you have time, take the road up to Clingmans Dome (if the weather is clear) and go up to...

    /r/Tennessee
  • Reddit Icon

    Will be traveling between Knoxville and Nashville by road soon, looking for recommendations on the best towns to stop in, sights to see! ... Tennessee Man Arrested on Felony a...

    Recommendations on where to visit/stop on our road trip

    Will be traveling between Knoxville and Nashville by road soon, looking for recommendations on the best towns to stop in, sights to see! ... Tennessee Man Arrested on Felony a...

    /r/Tennessee
  • Reddit Icon

    Looking to take a LA-MS-TN road trip centered around all things music: venues (historic and otherwise), bars, studios, anything ! Not looking for super touristy locales, would...

    TN Music-themed road trip recommendations?

    Looking to take a LA-MS-TN road trip centered around all things music: venues (historic and otherwise), bars, studios, anything ! Not looking for super touristy locales, would...

    /r/Tennessee

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Chris Stapleton - Tennessee Whiskey

    Chris Stapleton - Tennessee Whiskey

    This soulful country song by Chris Stapleton is a perfect fit for a Tennessee road trip. Its smooth and bluesy sound will enhance the scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere of the trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Chris Stapleton - Tennessee Whiskey
  • Music Icon

    Conway Twitty - Rocky Top

    Conway Twitty - Rocky Top

    Rocky Top is an iconic bluegrass song that has become an unofficial anthem for the state of Tennessee. It's energetic and lively, representing the spirit of the region's music and culture.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Conway Twitty - Rocky Top
  • Music Icon

    Darius Rucker - Wagon Wheel

    Darius Rucker - Wagon Wheel

    Originally written by Bob Dylan and later completed by Old Crow Medicine Show, Wagon Wheel is a timeless folk-rock song. Its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a great companion for a road trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Darius Rucker - Wagon Wheel
  • Music Icon

    Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama

    Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama

    Although not about Tennessee specifically, this classic rock song by Lynyrd Skynyrd is a perfect fit for a Southern road trip. Its iconic guitar riff and sing-along chorus will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama
  • Music Icon

    Marc Cohn - Walking in Memphis

    Marc Cohn - Walking in Memphis

    This iconic song by Marc Cohn is an ode to the city of Memphis. Its soulful piano and heartfelt lyrics beautifully capture the essence of the city's rich musical heritage.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Marc Cohn - Walking in Memphis
  • Music Icon

    King Harvest - Dancing in the Moonlight

    King Harvest - Dancing in the Moonlight

    This upbeat and feel-good song by King Harvest is perfect for cruising along the scenic routes of Tennessee. Its catchy melody and joyful lyrics will definitely enhance the road trip experience.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for King Harvest - Dancing in the Moonlight
  • Music Icon

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    No road trip playlist is complete without this classic song by John Denver. Its beautiful melody and nostalgic lyrics about the beauty of nature and longing for home will resonate with any traveler.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads
  • Music Icon

    The Weeknd - Wasted Times

    The Weeknd - Wasted Times

    Wasted Time by Eagles is a mellow rock ballad that perfectly complements the laid-back atmosphere of a road trip. Its introspective lyrics and soothing sound make it an ideal choice for contemplative moments.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for The Weeknd - Wasted Times
  • Music Icon

    Dolly Parton - Jolene

    Dolly Parton - Jolene

    This timeless country song by Dolly Parton tells the story of a woman pleading with Jolene not to steal her man. Its powerful vocals and emotional lyrics will captivate listeners on the road.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Dolly Parton - Jolene
  • Music Icon

    Whitney Houston - I Will Always Love You

    Whitney Houston - I Will Always Love You

    Originally written and performed by Dolly Parton, this iconic ballad gained worldwide fame when Whitney Houston covered it for the movie 'The Bodyguard'. Its powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect song for a reflective moment during the trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Whitney Houston - I Will Always Love You