Road Trip Itinerary: Driving From Atlanta to Nashville
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If you’re planning a Southern road trip, driving from Atlanta to Nashville is more than just a way to get from one city to another — it’s an unforgettable journey through the heart of the South.
Picture yourself cruising past rolling hills and roadside farm stands, stopping in mountain towns where time seems to slow down and discovering local eats and hidden gems you’d never find from a plane seat.
Clocking in at just under four hours, this drive is an experience unto itself. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a car, campervan, or an RV, the itinerary below shows the best places to soak in Southern charm on an Atlanta to Nashville road trip.
Route Overview
- Starting Point: Atlanta, GA
- Destination: Nashville, TN
- Distance: Approximately 250 miles
- Drive Time: 3.5 to 4 hours (without stops)
- Recommended Duration: Full day with stops or 2 days with an overnight stay
Morning Departure: Start in Atlanta
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Before hitting the road, fuel up with breakfast from a local fave like Home grown GA in East Atlanta, known for its laid-back atmosphere and Southern comfort food. You could also swing by Buttermilk Kitchen in Buckhead for elevated Southern classics or grab a quick bite at Atlanta Breakfast Club near Midtown.
Prefer something sweet? Stop at Sublime Doughnuts for a box of creative, crave-worthy treats.
Once you’re filled up, hop on I-75 North toward Chattanooga. Traffic can be heavy leaving the city, so hit the road early to give yourself more time for stops.
Stop 1: Rock City Gardens – Lookout Mountain, GA
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Distance from Atlanta: About 2 hours
Located just outside Chattanooga, Rock City Gardens is a mountaintop stop known for its scenic views, ancient rock formations, and winding trails.
The centerpiece is the famous “See Seven States” overlook, where you can see panoramic vistas stretching across many states. If you have extra time, consider visiting Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall nestled inside Lookout Mountain, or ride the historic Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger trains in the world.
Stop 2: Aquatic Critters in Chattanooga, TN
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Distance from Rock City Gardens: 15 minutes
Chattanooga offers a blend of urban charm and outdoor access, making it a perfect lunch stop. Head downtown to Urban Stack for gourmet burgers and whiskey cocktails or try The Daily Ration for lunch with a southern flair.
While you’re there, take a quick walk across the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. Be sure to also check out the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the best in the U.S.
Stop 3: Coffee Break in Monteagle, TN
Distance from Chattanooga: About 1 hour
After leaving Chattanooga, you’ll begin to ascend the Cumberland Plateau. The Cumberland Plateau offers some of the South’s most stunning natural scenery, with dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and forested trails perfect for hiking and exploring.
Quiet, scenic, and rich in Appalachian character, the plateau is a nice breather while driving from Atlanta to Nashville.
The small town of Monteagle makes a great mid-afternoon break. Stop at The Mountain Goat Market, a quirky cafe and gift shop with excellent coffee, sandwiches, and homemade sweets. It’s a favorite with locals and travelers alike.
If you’re in the mood for a bit of nature, the Fiery Gizzard Trail in nearby Tracy City offers a scenic hike through the forest, with waterfalls and rock formations along the way.
Stop 4: Explore Historic Franklin, TN
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Distance from Monteagle: About 1.5 hours
Just 30 minutes south of Nashville, Franklin is a charming town known for its well-preserved downtown, Civil War history, and Southern hospitality. Take a stroll down Main Street to explore boutique shops, antique stores, and local eateries. Merridee’s Breadbasket is a local favorite for baked goods, pies, and hearty sandwiches.
For a deeper dive into history, visit the Lotz House Museum, which offers a guided look at Franklin’s role in one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles. The town’s slower pace makes it a relaxing final stop before landing in the bustling city of Nashville.
Final Stop: Arrive in Nashville, TN
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Distance from Franklin: 30 minutes
Welcome to Music City. Whether you’re here to tour the Country Music Hall of Fame, catch a show at the Ryman Auditorium, or experience the nightlife on Broadway, Nashville has something for everyone.
Food lovers will want to try local specialties like hot chicken at Prince’s or Hattie B’s, and beer enthusiasts can explore the city’s growing craft brewery scene.
And then there’s the music…Nashville is a mecca not only for country, but for rock, blues, gospel and so so much more.
For accommodations, check out The Graduate Nashville, a music-themed boutique hotel. If you’re traveling by RV, Nashville has a campground for every style.
Common Questions About Driving from Atlanta to Nashville
How long is the drive from Atlanta to Nashville?
The direct drive takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, covering roughly 250 miles via I-75 N and I-24 W. However, if you plan to make scenic stops (like Chattanooga or Franklin), it’s best to set aside a full day.
What is the best route from Atlanta to Nashville?
The most popular route is to take I-75 N out of Atlanta, then merge onto I-24 W in Chattanooga. This takes you through some of the most scenic and interesting parts of north Georgia and southern Tennessee.
Is there anything to do between Atlanta and Nashville?
Yes! Some of the most worthwhile stops include Rock City Gardens on Lookout Mountain, downtown Chattanooga for food and attractions, a coffee break in Monteagle, and the historic town of Franklin, TN.
Can I make the trip in one day?
Yes, it’s possible to make the trip in a single day—even with a couple of short stops. But if you have time, stretching the trip into a two-day adventure allows you to explore more and enjoy the journey at a relaxed pace.
What’s the halfway point between Atlanta and Nashville?
Chattanooga is the most logical halfway point. It’s about two hours from Atlanta and offers plenty of things to see and do—from walking across the Walnut Street Bridge to grabbing lunch at a local spot downtown.
Is the drive from Atlanta to Nashville scenic?
Yes, especially as you get closer to the Tennessee border and into the Cumberland Plateau. You’ll pass through rolling hills, river valleys, and charming small towns. It’s a great stretch for travelers who appreciate both natural beauty and cultural stops.
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Final Thoughts: Driving from Atlanta to Nashville
Driving from Atlanta to Nashville offers much more than just a change of scenery. With everything from mountaintop views to historic small towns, this road trip is packed with Southern flavor and memorable experiences.
Whether you tackle it in a single day or make it a multi-day adventure, each stop along the way brings something special to the table—and by the time you reach Nashville, you’ll have plenty of adventures under your belt.
Josh and his wife traveled around the country in an '88 Airstream for 4+ years of full-time RVing. They made an unexpected pitstop in Montana in 2020 and haven't left since. That's because they got hooked on the glamping resort they run by Glacier National Park. Fittingly, they keep up their RVing love by renting out vintage Airstreams and other retro RVs to travelers hitting Montana.
