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Nashville to Memphis: An 8-Day Road Trip Adventure

Viewed by 153 travelers

Day 1: Explore Nashville

Nashville, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pancake Pantry, known for its fluffy, homemade pancakes.
Head towards the Pancake Pantry located in Hillsboro Village.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

Explore the rich history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame, featuring exhibitions and archives.
Drive to the Country Music Hall of Fame downtown.
USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hattie B's Hot Chicken

Savor Nashville’s iconic hot chicken and experience the local flavor at Hattie B's.
It's a short 10-minute drive from the Hall.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tour the Ryman Auditorium

Take a guided tour of the Ryman Auditorium, known as the 'Mother Church of Country Music,' and feel the musical history.
Located right next to the Hall of Fame.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Broadway Street

Stroll along Broadway Street, enjoying live music and vibrant energy unique to Music City.
Walk to Broadway; it's just a few blocks away.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Rotier's

Indulge in a classic burger at Rotier's, a Nashville institution famous for its tasty eats.
A quick drive will take you there.
USD18, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nashville

Day 2: Charming Nashville

Nashville, TN

9:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Love

Start the day with some Southern-style breakfast biscuits at Biscuit Love, a local favorite.
It's a short drive from your hotel.
USD12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit The Parthenon

Explore the full-scale replica of the Parthenon located in Centennial Park.
A 15-minute drive from Biscuit Love.
USD10, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden

Enjoy fantastic burgers and a variety of local beers in a lovely outdoor setting.
About a 10-minute drive from The Parthenon.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Belle Meade Plantation

Take a historic tour of Belle Meade Plantation and learn about the South’s thoroughbred horse racing history.
Drive 20 minutes from lunch for a scenic ride.
USD18, 2 hours

4:30PM

Shopping at The Gulch

Spend some time shopping and strolling through the chic neighborhood of The Gulch.
Drive for 10 minutes to The Gulch.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Merchants Restaurant

Dine at Merchants, a historic restaurant on Broadway with a vibrant atmosphere and excellent Southern cuisine.
Drive or walk back to Broadway.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore Franklin

Franklin, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Frothy Monkey

Enjoy a cozy breakfast with locally sourced ingredients at Frothy Monkey in downtown Franklin.
Drive 30 minutes from Nashville to Franklin.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Carnton Plantation

Explore the history of the Civil War and the beautiful gardens at Carnton Plantation.
A short 10 minute drive away.
USD12, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll Historic Downtown Franklin

Enjoy shopping and exploring the charming shops and art galleries in Historic Franklin.
It's a walking distance from Carnton.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant

Relish some comfort food, with a local twist at Puckett's, where you can grab some Southern BBQ.
A 5-minute walk from downtown shops.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Lotz House Museum

Take a tour of the historical Lotz House, learning about its significance during the Civil War.
A 10-minute walk from Puckett's.
USD10, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Gray's on Main

Dine in a renovated pharmacy turned restaurant serving creative dishes inspired by Southern recipes.
A quick drive from the Lotz House.
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franklin

Day 4: On to Jackson

Jackson, TN

9:00AM

Breakfast at Waffle House

Start your day simply and deliciously at Waffle House before hitting the road.
Drive 1 hour 40 minutes to Jackson.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Casey Jones Village

Explore the historic Casey Jones Village, featuring a museum and a train-themed park.
Drive just 10 minutes from breakfast.
USD5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Old Town Spaghetti Store

Savor a hearty meal of freshly made pasta and delicious sauces in a warm setting.
Head 15 minutes to Old Town Spaghetti Store.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Learn about the influence of soul music in America through interesting exhibits and memorabilia.
Drive 45 minutes to the museum in Memphis.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Refresh yourself and drop off your bags at your hotel in Memphis.
Only 10 minutes from Stax Museum.
USD150, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Indulge in Memphis' classic fried chicken at Gus’s, a must-try restaurant.
A quick drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Jackson

Day 5: Memphis Highlights

Memphis, TN

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Arcade Restaurant

Start your morning at Memphis’ oldest café, known for its hearty breakfasts and retro vibe.
Drive or walk to The Arcade from your hotel.
USD12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Graceland

Explore Elvis Presley's iconic home, Graceland, and pay homage to the King of Rock and Roll.
A 15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD45, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Central BBQ

Devour some of the best BBQ in Memphis at Central BBQ, renowned for its mouthwatering ribs and pulled pork.
Drive 25 minutes from Graceland.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the National Civil Rights Museum

Engage with the heartfelt history of the civil rights movement at this inspiring museum.
Drive just 10 minutes from Central BBQ.
USD14, 2 hours

5:00PM

Ride on Beale Street

Spend the evening filled with live music, food, and fun on lively Beale Street.
It's just 5 minutes from the museum.
Free, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Ribs R Us

Finish your day with great southern BBQ at Ribs R Us, a laid-back spot for delicious food.
Just a short walk from Beale Street.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Memphis

Memphis, TN

9:00AM

Breakfast at Rise Biscuits Donuts

Start your day with fluffy biscuits and delicious handmade donuts to get energized.
Walk or drive to Rise from your hotel.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Sun Studio

Discover the birthplace of rock 'n roll with a guided tour of the legendary Sun Studio.
Drive 10 minutes to Sun Studio.
USD15, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Beauty Shop Restaurant

Indulge in creative southern dishes inside a former beauty salon, offering a unique dining experience.
Just 5 minutes from Sun Studio.
USD18, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Memphis Zoo

Spend the afternoon at the Memphis Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals and a great family-friendly destination.
Drive 15 minutes to the zoo.
USD20, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check-in for a Riverboat Cruise

Experience an unforgettable riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River.
Cruise embarking point is 20 minutes from the zoo.
USD30, 30 minutes

4:30PM

Mississippi River Cruise

Relax and take in the beautiful views while enjoying onboard music and dining.
A 2-hour cruise before returning to the docks.
Included in above, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Silky O'Sullivan's

End your evening at Silky O'Sullivan's, known for its lively atmosphere and great food.
Drive 10 minutes from the riverboat dock.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 7: Leisure Memphis

Memphis, TN

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Plate Cafe

Enjoy a homestyle breakfast at The Blue Plate Cafe, famous for their hearty Southern breakfast.
Drive 10 minutes from your hotel.
USD12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Dixon Gallery and Gardens

Explore the beautiful art and stunning gardens at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens.
A short 15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD8, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Shelby Farms Greenline

Picnic at the Greenline or dine at one of the nearby cafés while enjoying the outdoor scenery.
Drive to Shelby Farms Park about 15 minutes away.
USD10, 2 hours

3:00PM

Afternoon at Shelby Farms Park

Enjoy some leisure activities like hiking or biking around the expansive Shelby Farms Park.
Already located in the same park.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Kingsway

Savor delightful dishes at The Kingsway, a rustic spot showcasing American fare.
About 20 minutes from the park.
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Memphis

Day 8: Return to Nashville

Memphis, TN to Nashville, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brother Juniper's

Enjoy one last breakfast at Brother Juniper's, famous for its generous portions and diverse menu.
Check-out and drive 15 minutes to Brother Juniper's.
USD12, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Last-minute sightseeing in Memphis

Take a stroll to see some last attractions or visit a souvenir shop before heading back.
Choose from nearby attractions; Beale Street is a short drive away.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Drive back to Nashville

Embark on the scenic drive back to Nashville, reflecting on your amazing trip.
Drive approximately 3 hours back to Nashville.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Loveless Cafe

Enjoy a famous Southern lunch at The Loveless Cafe, known for its biscuits and country cooking.
Drive 15 minutes from Nashville's entrance.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Departure

Finish your trip with fond memories and a heart full of music.
Drive to the airport or your onward destination as required.
Free, Variable
Find Hotels in Memphis
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More About nashville to memphis

Trip Packing List: United States multi-city tour (30 Aug 2026 — early Nov 2026)
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Trip Packing List: Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans — December
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