Family Road Trip from Chattanooga to Memphis with Scenic Stops and Fun Activities

Day 1: Chattanooga to Memphis Adventure

Chattanooga to Memphis, Tennessee, USA on May 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast Before Departure

Grab a quick breakfast at a local Chattanooga cafe like Aretha Frankenstein’s before you hit the road, or pack some easy-to-eat snacks to enjoy on the way.
USD10-15, 0h30m

8:00am

Depart Chattanooga

Start your scenic road trip westbound on I-24 toward Manchester with the family ready for a fun day of exploring.
Free, 1h30m

9:30am

Old Stone Fort State Park

Stretch your legs on an easy 30-minute walk to see beautiful waterfalls and ancient Native American mounds, great for kids and adults to enjoy nature and history alike.
USD3 per vehicle, 0h30m

10:00am

Continue Drive to Jackson, TN

Get back on I-24 heading towards Nashville and then merge onto I-40 west, aiming for Jackson for your lunch and museum stop.
Free, 2h30m

12:30pm

Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum

Explore this kid-friendly railroad museum featuring climbable trains, ringing bells, and model railroads, while adults enjoy the rich history of Casey Jones and the railroad industry in Tennessee.
USD8, 1h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Old Country Store

Enjoy a family-style Southern buffet at The Old Country Store right next door to the museum, offering hearty home-cooked meals in a charming setting perfect for recharging after the museum.
USD15-20, 1h

3:00pm

Drive Jackson to Memphis

Continue your journey heading west via I-40 for approximately 1.5 hours to reach Memphis.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

Take the family elevator ride up the Pyramid’s 30-story lookout deck for breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Don't miss the large indoor swamp area with alligators, the aquarium, and the bowling alley for some fun.
Free entry, aquarium and bowling extra, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner Recommendation

Dine at Uncle Lou's BBQ inside Bass Pro Shops, featuring kid-friendly Southern favorites with a Memphis flair.
USD20-30, 1h

7:15pm

Optional Beale Street Visit

Enjoy a stroll on Beale Street early evening before dark to take in the kid-friendly music vibe and lively atmosphere in a safe environment.
Free, 0h45m

8:00pm

Return to Hotel and Relax

Head back to your accommodation to get some well-earned rest after a packed day of family fun.
Depending on hotel, Rest
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