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14-Day Family Friendly Adventure: Atlanta to Kentucky Road Trip

Viewed by 77 travelers

Day 1: Explore Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe

Start your journey with a hearty Southern breakfast at this popular local hangout, known for its fluffy biscuits and creamy grits.
Located in Midtown, it's convenient to begin your day here.
USD15, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Georgia Aquarium

Dive into a thrilling adventure at one of the largest aquariums in the world, perfect for families wanting to explore marine life.
Short drive from the cafe, park nearby.
USD35, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ponce City Market

Enjoy a variety of tasty options at this vibrant food hall that boasts everything from BBQ to vegan dishes.
A quick ride will get you there.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Piedmont Park

Spend your afternoon enjoying the great outdoors, letting the kids play on the spacious lawns while you relax.
A short drive or easy walk from the market.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Mary Mac's Tea Room

Experience authentic Southern cooking with dishes like fried chicken and collard greens in a charming setting.
Located nearby in Midtown.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 2: Travel to South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina

8:00AM

Breakfast at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit

Grab some delicious biscuits filled with various flavors before hitting the road.
Drive down to Charleston, about a 5-hour ride.
USD12, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Fleet Landing Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood with wonderful views of the waterfront and the Charleston harbor.
Located in downtown Charleston; park nearby.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Discover the Historic District

Take a walking tour through cobblestone streets filled with historic homes and beautiful gardens, an enriching experience for the family.
Self-guided walking tour; maps available online.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Husk

Savor farm-to-table Southern cuisine in a beautifully restored historic building.
Just a short drive or walk from the historic district.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Explore More of South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Rise Bakery

Indulge in artisanal pastries and fresh coffee for a delightful morning.
Located near your hotel; a quick drive is recommended.
USD10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Boone Hall Plantation

Experience a living history tour that showcases the rich culture and history of the area with interactive exhibits.
A 30-minute drive from Charleston.
USD25, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Snack Shack

Enjoy casual dining with burgers and sandwiches right by the beach.
Head to Sullivan’s Island; a drive is needed.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Beach Time at Sullivan’s Island

Let the kids build sandcastles and enjoy the beautiful beach setting.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Crab Shack

Savor Lowcountry cuisine and seafood in rustic charm surrounded by nature.
Drive back to the main part of Charleston.
USD35, 2 hours
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Day 4: Travel to Tennessee

Nashville, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Love

Start the morning with Southern-style biscuits served with a twist in downtown Nashville.
Begin driving to Nashville, about a 7-hour journey.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken

Experience Nashville's famous hot chicken at this local favorite—plenty of options for spice lovers!
Try to avoid peak hours for a smoother visit.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame

Discover the rich history of country music and its legendary artists through engaging exhibits.
Park nearby; a short walk will get you there.
USD25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pharmacy

Enjoy delicious burgers, house-made sodas, and a laid-back atmosphere, a perfect stop after a long day.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Discover Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Pantry

Indulge in delicious pancakes served in this beloved breakfast spot filled with Southern charm.
Located in Hillsboro Village; it's a short drive away.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit The Parthenon

Explore this full-scale replica of the Athenian original, showcasing art and history in a beautiful park setting.
A short drive from the pancake spot.
USD10, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at 112 Eatery

Savor a unique menu of gourmet comfort food in the heart of Nashville.
Just a short drive away.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Tour the Johnny Cash Museum

Dive into the life and music of the legendary Johnny Cash through interactive exhibits and memorabilia.
Nearby in downtown Nashville; a short walk is fine.
USD25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Rest and Relax at Centennial Park

Wind down at this lovely park, ideal for picnics and a great playground for children.
Close to The Parthenon.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at City House

Enjoy farm-to-table dining with Italian-inspired Southern dishes in an eclectic setting.
A bit of a drive from the park, but worth it.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Leisure Day in Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Loveless Cafe

A true Southern institution, enjoy country ham and homemade biscuits at this charming cafe.
Located on the outskirts but definitely worth the drive.
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Adventure Science Center

An engaging science museum with interactive exhibits, ideal for kids to learn and play.
Short drive from the cafe; park available.
USD15, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Edley's Bar-B-Que

Experience Nashville’s barbecue culture with delicious smoked meats in a relaxed atmosphere.
Just a quick drive from the museum.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Nashville Zoo

Foster the kids’ love for animals with a visit to this family-friendly zoo featuring diverse animals and exhibits.
Located just south of downtown; short drive required.
USD18, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Local

Discover locally sourced dishes served in a cozy environment, highlighting Southern flavors.
North of the zoo; a quick drive.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 7: Trip to Ruby Falls

Chattanooga, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blueberry Cafe

Enjoy blueberry pancakes and fresh coffee before departing for a day of exploration.
Back up north towards Chattanooga, about a 2-hour drive.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Arrive at Ruby Falls

Experience the breathtaking underground waterfall on a guided tour—an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.
Upon arrival, parking is available at the site.
USD25, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Terminal Brewhouse

Grab a delicious bite at this popular local restaurant known for its beer and fresh pizza.
Drive to downtown Chattanooga; a short distance.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Tennessee Aquarium

Enjoy exploring fresh and saltwater exhibits, perfect for family enjoyment and learning.
Driving distance from the restaurant.
USD30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sticky Fingers BBQ

Finish the day with mouthwatering barbecue, ideal for meat lovers and families.
Just a quick drive away.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Travel to Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Little Debbie’s Restaurant

Enjoy a classic diner breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead.
Drive from Chattanooga to Memphis, around a 5-hour trip.
USD12, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Central BBQ

Taste some of the best barbecue in Memphis; great portions and every bite is worth it.
Located on Central Avenue; easy access.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Graceland

Dive into the life of Elvis Presley by touring his famous home and museum—an iconic visit for music lovers.
Graceland is just a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD45, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Complete your Southern culinary experience with some renowned fried chicken at this beloved spot.
A short drive back into downtown Memphis.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Day in Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Arcade Restaurant

Start your day in the oldest diner in Memphis with classic breakfast selections.
Located downtown; parking nearby.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Civil Rights Museum

Engage with the important history of the civil rights movement through this impactful museum experience.
Walking distance from the diner.
USD15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Alcenia’s

Enjoy a soulful meal at a local favorite spot filled with art and music history.
Just a short walk from the museum.
USD18, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Beale Street

Wander through this iconic street known for its music clubs and vibrant atmosphere, a great photo opportunity.
Head to Beale Street, a short distance from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Rendezvous

Savor delectable dry-rub ribs and other barbecue specialties at this historic restaurant.
Drive a few blocks back towards downtown.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Travel to Kentucky

Louisville, Kentucky

8:00AM

Breakfast at Toast on Market

Enjoy inventive dishes and a cozy atmosphere for a delicious start to your road trip to Louisville.
Drive about 3 hours to Louisville.
USD15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Arrive in Louisville

Upon arrival, head to the Louisville Slugger Museum to learn about baseball history and see the famous bats.
Located in downtown Louisville; parking available.
USD22, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hammerheads

Experience a unique twist on classic dishes at this popular eatery known for its excellent burgers and sandwiches.
A short drive or walk from the museum.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Kentucky Science Center

Engage the family in an interactive museum with exhibits that entertain and educate children of all ages.
Just a quick drive from the lunch location.
USD15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Pat’s Steakhouse

Savor a classic steakhouse experience with a wide selection of meals in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Drive west towards the restaurant.
USD35, 2 hours
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Day 11: Experience Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet Surrender

Delight in artisanal pastries and gourmet coffee to power your day ahead.
Located near downtown; a quick drive is ideal.
USD12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Muhammad Ali Center

Honor the legendary boxing champion and his humanitarian work through inspiring exhibits.
A short drive from the bakery.
USD15, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Old Spaghetti Factory

A family-friendly restaurant with a vintage décor offering classic Italian dishes.
Head back towards the heart of the city.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Louisville Waterfront Park

Enjoy the scenic views of the Ohio River; perfect for kids to run free and picnics.
Located close to downtown, easy access.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Buck's Restaurant

Enjoy a casually decadent meal, perfect for a family night out with an excellent selection of dishes.
Drive back towards downtown, a short ride.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 12: Venture Out in Kentucky

Lexington, Kentucky

8:00AM

Breakfast at Catawba Coffee

Start your day with artisan coffee and freshly baked pastries from this local favorite.
Drive from Louisville to Lexington; about a 1.5-hour trip.
USD12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Kentucky Horse Park

Learn about Kentucky’s rich equine history through engaging exhibits and horse rides—perfect for the equestrian buff!
Located just outside of Lexington; a short drive.
USD20, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ramsey's Diner

Savor comfort food from a local favorite in a relaxed atmosphere that the whole family will enjoy.
Just a 15-minute drive from the horse park.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Mary Todd Lincoln House

Step into history by touring the childhood home of Abraham Lincoln's wife, filled with period furnishings and guided tours.
A quick drive from lunch.
USD10, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Grey Goose

Relax with a selection of classic American fare in a cozy setting while you recount the day's adventures.
Located conveniently in downtown Lexington.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Return Journey to Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast to get refueled for your journey back to Atlanta.
Begin your drive from Lexington to Atlanta; it's about a 4.5-hour trip.
USD12, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Varsity

Stop by this iconic fast food joint known for its hot dogs and burgers once you reach Atlanta.
Head downtown; prepare for the ultimate fast food experience.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Pay homage to Dr. King with a visit to the park that honors his legacy; take family photos to document this moment.
A short drive to Sweet Auburn neighborhood.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at South City Kitchen

Wrap up your adventure with a delightful Southern meal featuring traditional dishes in a contemporary atmosphere.
Located a short drive from the park.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Depart Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia

8:00AM

Breakfast at J. Christopher’s

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to kick off your last day, choosing from a variety of breakfast options.
Conveniently located within the city.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Pack and Prepare for Departure

Take the time to pack and reflect on the incredible memories made during your trip.
At your accommodation before heading to the airport, if applicable.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Check-out and Head Home

Final packing and say goodbye to the experiences of your epic road trip.
Ensure the vehicle's tank is full before returning it.
Free, 1 hour
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