Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

11-Day Family Friendly Road Trip: Nature & Foodie Adventure in Nashville, TN and Beyond

Viewed by 144 travelers

Day 1: Explore Nashville

Nashville, TN on December 20, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Love

Savor Southern breakfast delights like the famous bonuts, fluffy biscuits, and homemade jams, perfect for energizing your family for the day ahead.
Take a leisurely walk or a short drive to the restaurant from your accommodation.
USD40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

Dive into the rich history of American music at this interactive museum that entertains all ages with exhibits showcasing legendary artists.
Drive 5 minutes to the museum.
USD80, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hattie B's Hot Chicken

Try Nashville’s iconic hot chicken with various heat levels that’ll please both spice lovers and the kiddos with milder options.
A brief 10-minute drive.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Walk in Centennial Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in this beautiful park, featuring a full-scale replica of the Parthenon and lovely green spaces for the kids to play.
About a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden

Indulge in delicious handcrafted burgers and homemade sodas alfresco, a hit with both adults and children.
Approximately 10 minutes by car.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nashville

Day 2: Nashville Arts & Culture

Nashville, TN on December 21, 2024

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a variety of fluffy pancakes, a family favorite that even picky eaters can’t resist.
Located in the Hillsboro Village area, a short drive from downtown.
USD50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Frist Art Museum

Experience family-friendly exhibitions and art activities that inspire curiosity and creativity in your children.
Just a 10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Edley's Bar-B-Que

Enjoy Southern BBQ with mouth-watering brisket and pulled pork, along with classic sides that everyone will love.
10-minute drive from the museum.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Spend the afternoon interacting with wildlife and enjoying the interactive exhibits at this engaging family destination.
Approx. 15 minutes driving.
USD80, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at 5th & Taylor

Delight in farm-to-table meals made with locally sourced ingredients, offering a relaxing dining experience.
20-minute drive back towards downtown.
USD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nashville

Day 3: Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN on December 22, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Loveless Cafe

Relish in homemade biscuits and Southern breakfast classics before embarking on your nature adventure.
Drive 30 minutes southeast to this iconic restaurant.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Enjoy a scenic one-hour drive through picturesque landscapes to reach the breathtaking park entrance.
Follow US-441 S for beautiful mountain views.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hiking the Laurel Falls Trail

Explore this popular family-friendly hike leading to stunning waterfalls in a serene setting, taking your time to enjoy nature.
The trailhead is a short drive from the park entrance.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Park

Pack a picnic lunch with sandwiches and snacks to enjoy at one of the many scenic picnic areas within the park.
Find a picturesque spot near the trail.
USD40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Cades Cove

Experience wildlife and historic buildings in this beautiful valley, perfect for some family exploration and photography.
Around a 30-minute drive to the west.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive to Pigeon Forge

Head to your evening destination in Pigeon Forge, known for its family attractions.
About a 30-minute drive east.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill

Dine at this rustic restaurant famous for its Southern cuisine and beautiful waterwheel view.
Located in Pigeon Forge.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Day 4: Fun in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN on December 23, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Grist Mill

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast featuring homemade pancakes and syrup that will fuel your Pigeon Forge adventures.
Located within The Old Mill complex.
USD50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Dollywood

Spend the day at the famous theme park, filled with rides, shows, and great food that caters to families of all ages.
Just a short 10-minute drive.
USD200, 6 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bullfish Grill

Savor a variety of steak and seafood options in a family-friendly ambiance.
A quick 10-minute drive from Dollywood.
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pigeon Forge

Day 5: Gatlinburg Excursion

Gatlinburg, TN on December 24, 2024

8:30AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry Gatlinburg

Treat the family to some of the best pancakes around, custom-made to satisfy everyone's taste bud.
A quick drive to downtown Gatlinburg.
USD60, 1 hour

10:00AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Ride the SkyLift SkyBridge for breathtaking views of the Smokies and an exhilarating experience.
Just a short drive to the SkyLift Park.
USD100, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Park Grill

Enjoy delicious smoky mountain dishes served in a rustic lodge setting, perfect to refuel after your morning adventures.
A quick walk from the SkyLift park.
USD70, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Experience an interactive and educational aquarium that offers fun and excitement for all ages.
Just a short walk from lunch.
USD120, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Calhoun's

Feast on BBQ and American classics in an inviting setting with views of the river.
Approximately 10-minute drive away.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Gatlinburg

Day 6: Chattanooga Adventure

Chattanooga, TN on December 25, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Plate

Start your Christmas Day with classic American breakfast plates that will bring the family together in a festive mood.
Drive 1 hour from Gatlinburg to Chattanooga.
USD50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Tennessee Aquarium

Let your kids marvel at the wonders of marine life and hands-on exhibits perfect for young explorers.
Located downtown, grab a parking spot close by.
USD120, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Aretha Frankenstein's

Indulge in creative brunch dishes in a quirky diner setting, ideal for excited families looking for something different.
A short drive or walk from the aquarium.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Lookout Mountain

Take a scenic drive and enjoy breathtaking views, visit Ruby Falls, and ride the Incline Railway for family fun.
About 30-minute drive from lunch.
USD100, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Big River Grille & Brewing Works

Enjoy craft brews and a variety of fresh dishes in a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for winding down after a day of excitement.
A quick 15-minute drive.
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chattanooga

Day 7: Return to Nashville

Nashville, TN on December 26, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Milk & Honey

Enjoy artisanal breakfasts made with fresh ingredients, perfect for a delicious and healthy start to your day.
Drive back to Nashville, about 2 hours.
USD50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Nashville Adventure Science Center

Keep the kids entertained at this hands-on science center with engaging exhibits and fun activities.
Only a short drive from breakfast.
USD70, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Jack's Bar-B-Que

Taste authentic Nashville BBQ with a family-friendly menu featuring a variety of meats and classic sides.
10-minute drive.
USD60, 1 hour

3:30PM

Stroll through the Nashville Farmers' Market

Explore local vendors and fresh produce, a great place for kids to learn about healthy eating.
20-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Capitol Grille

End your day with a fine dining experience, offering a seasonal menu with locally-sourced ingredients.
Head back to downtown Nashville, about 20 minutes away.
USD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nashville

Day 8: Day Trip to Franklin

Franklin, TN on December 27, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Franklin Mercantile Deli

Delight in a cozy breakfast featuring homemade pastries and local specialties to kickstart your day.
Drive down to Franklin, about 30 minutes.
USD50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Downtown Franklin

Stroll through charming streets teeming with boutique shops and delicious cafes, great for some family exploration.
Walk around the historic downtown area.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gray's on Main

Savor seasonal dishes in a unique setting that reflects Franklin's history, perfect for family dining.
A short walk from downtown shopping.
USD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Carnton Plantation

Learn about Civil War history and explore beautiful gardens that offer a glimpse of Southern life.
A short drive from lunch.
USD80, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The 5 Spot

End your day back in Nashville enjoying eclectic menu options that especially cater to families.
Drive back to Nashville, approximately 30 minutes.
USD100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franklin

Day 9: Lynchburg & Jack Daniel's

Lynchburg, TN on December 28, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Rich Southern flavors shine at this local diner, perfect for a hearty breakfast before the day’s journey.
Drive 1.5 hours to Lynchburg.
USD50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Jack Daniel's Distillery Tour

While the kids explore the beautiful grounds, adults can enjoy a guided tour of the world-renowned distillery.
A short drive to the distillery.
USD30, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Barbecue Joint

Feast on local BBQ treats that will satisfy the whole family’s appetite.
10-minute drive from the distillery.
USD70, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Lynchburg's Town Square

Spend some time wandering the quaint town square, filled with shops and small local attractions.
Drive a few minutes into the town center.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive back to Nashville

Enjoy the scenic ride back, reflecting on your family adventure.
Approximately 1.5 hours back to Nashville.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Demos' Steak and Spaghetti House

Savor a delicious mix of Italian and steakhhouse favorites in a welcoming atmosphere, perfect to end your day.
Located in Nashville.
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lynchburg

Day 10: Final Day in Nashville

Nashville, TN on December 29, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Row Kitchen & Pub

Relax and enjoy classics like avocado toast and Southern-style breakfast dishes to ease into your final day.
A short drive within Nashville.
USD50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit The Johnny Cash Museum

Explore the exhibits dedicated to the legendary Johnny Cash, making music history entertaining for the whole family.
Just a drive away from breakfast.
USD40, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Wild Cow

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian menu that even meat-eaters will love, featuring creative dishes in a laid-back vibe.
Just a short drive.
USD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore The Parthenon

Take the kids to learn about ancient Greek architecture with a fun visit to this full-scale replica adorned with beautiful art.
Head back to Centennial Park.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Wrap up with Dinner at The Palm

Cap off your memorable journey with an upscale dining experience featuring quality steaks and seafood.
Located in downtown Nashville.
USD200, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nashville

Day 11: Departure Day

Nashville, TN on December 30, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel or Local Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation or a local cafe to fuel up before your trip home.
N/A
USD50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Leisurely Day & Departure

Pack your belongings and take a final stroll through the city or visit any missed attractions before departing.
Prepare for your flight or travel back home.
Free, Variable
Find Hotels in Nashville
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Nashville, TN

Trip Packing List: Nashville (Late February — 2026-02-27 travel date)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: Nashville, TN (June 11–15, 2026)
Packing List
Nashville Weather Guide: Climate and Seasonal Expert Insights
Weather Guide
Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Nashville
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Nashville, TN Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go