Spring Break is just around the corner, and we have some great ideas within driving distance for you! So — even if you’re planning last minute, or you can only manage to travel for a few days or a long weekend, we’ve got you!
Spring Break Travel Ideas: Driving Distance from Nashville
Chattanooga
Chattanooga is a very pleasant, short drive down I-24. You not only get amazing views — but also affordable, family fun! We love to visit Rock City when the weather permits. You can see seven states from up high and get to experience some seriously enchanted fun. Ruby Falls and the Incline are also fun stops! While you are there, head downtown to the Tennessee Aquarium or the Creative Discovery Museum or check out the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Don’t leave town with stopping by Clumpies for some tasty ice cream! Check this post for more Chattanooga ideas.
Smoky Mountains
Is outdoor adventure more your style? Head on over to the Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. There truly is something for every age here. From hiking to live shows to outlet shopping to buffets of food — this area is packed with things to do. We love to walk down the streets of Gatlinburg checking out the candy kitchens and eating samples, shopping, and taking in the views! The SkyBridge is a big hit, as well as Ober Gatlinburg, the Aquarium, Anakeesta and the Island at Pigeon Forge. But that is just the tip of the iceberg!
Knoxville
If the Smoky Mountains are a bit too much for you, then stop in Knoxville for a fun time! We love the downtown area with so many great places to eat and walk! Cruze Farm ice cream and Ham’N Goodys cookies are a must! (The lemon cookies are amazing!) Check out Muse, the Knoxville Zoo, or the history or art museums! Check out other ideas at Knoxville Moms!
Huntsville
If you’re looking for an educational good time, Huntsville is a quick drive down I-65 and is home to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center – a must see! Northern Alabama is also home to many lakes, rivers, parks, and green spaces. Check out the Huntsville Botanical Garden boasting over 100 acres of natural beauty. Check this post for more Huntsville ideas.
Bowling Green
Just a short drive North of Nashville is the eclectic city of Bowling Green, Kentucky – home to both a National park and a National car museum. Bowling Green is bursting with experiences the whole family will enjoy. Visit Mammoth Cave National Park and discover an underground world full of rich history and hidden wonders. Have a car enthusiast in your group? Head to the National Corvette Museum to see America’s favorite sports car up close and personal. Bowling Green is also home to Aviation Heritage Park and Museum and the Historic RailPark & Train Museum. If you’re interested in seeing dinosaurs, Kentucky’s got ‘em at Dinosaur World! Just a 30 minute drive outside of Bowling Green is this outdoor wonderland your kids will love! Be sure to head downtown and check out Fountain Square Park for fun sightseeing, great shopping and some seriously good eats.
Atlanta
The capital of the Peach State has so much to offer for a family getaway! Downtown Atlanta is a great place to stay because most sites are walkable. The Georgia Aquarium is a must see and is home to over 120,000 animals! Centennial Olympic Park is a great place to let the kids run off their energy and enjoy the sunshine and play in the fountains. Next door to the park is the Coca-Cola Museum, a really cool place to learn about the history of one of the most popular and iconic beverages of the world. (And you get to taste samples of sodas from around the world!) You can do a tour of CNN, ride the Sky Wheel, see the College Football Hall of Fame, visit The National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and check out the Atlanta Zoo. Check out this Atlanta Guide for more information!
Memphis
If you are wanting to travel west toward the Mississippi River, check out Memphis! The Bass Pro Shop in the Pyramid building has fun for everyone including a bowling alley, restaurant, fish, shopping — and even a hotel! Another great place to visit is the Children’s Museum. The staff is super helpful, and there are many fun, yet educational, activities for the kids to enjoy. My other picks? The Memphis Zoo (free on Tuesdays for Tennessee residents, some exclusions apply), and the Civil Rights Museum (free on Mondays, 3p-closing, some exclusions apply). If you’ve got an Elvis fan in your midst, you can’t miss Graceland. And you can never get enough of that Memphis-style BBQ!
St. Louis
St Louis is a good choice if you want to get away — but still want to stay within a drive-able distance with your kids. Be sure to head to Union Station! There is an aquarium, ferris wheel, miniature golf, mirror maze, ropes course, and an old-fashioned soda fountain. That is enough to keep you busy for days! The St. Louis Zoo offers free admission (shows are extra) and is a great stop. I also recommend the Magic House Children’s Museum and the Arch (beware, the cars for riding to the top are TINY). If you are a baseball fan, the season is opening soon, and you can check out a game!
Staycation in Nashville
There is nothing wrong with staying in town and being a tourist for the week! We love to go check out the murals around town, visit the parks and greenway trails, eat amazing local cuisine and explore the history and culture this town has to offer! The Frist Art Museum, the Adventure Science Center, and the Country Music Hall of Fame are great places to visit! Need more staycation ideas? We’ve got you covered.
