Living in Shelbyville, TN or visiting it soon, you will be glad to know that there are fantastic road trips you can embark on that will leave you awed, satisfied, and yearning for more. From stunning mountainscapes to national parks, historical landmarks, and beautiful beaches, there is a lot to explore beyond Shelbyville’s boundaries. In this article, we present to you the 5 best road trips from Shelbyville, TN.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Named after the haze that seems to hug the mountains, visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an unforgettable road trip with majestic views. The park runs along the North Carolina and Tennessee border and features abundant wildlife, hiking trails, and campgrounds.
As you make your way along the park’s winding roads, be sure to stop at Cades Cove, a historic open-air museum with an 11-mile loop trail dotted with 19th-century homesteads, churches, and even barns.
Nashville, TN
Nashville is known worldwide as Music City, but there is more to it than just country music. The city is home to fantastic restaurants, boutique shops, and historical sites.
Be sure to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Johnny Cash Museum and Café while in downtown Nashville. Head to Broadway for a night of live music and people watching.
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga, TN, is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground, and it’s just a 2-hour drive from Shelbyville. You can start your tour at Lookout Mountain, the site of the famous battle during the civil war.
In the area, the Tennessee Aquarium delights visitors of all ages, and the historical sites such as the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park provide insight into the US’s past. Afterward, stop for some delicious southern-style cuisine at Champy’s Famous Fried Chicken.
Pigeon Forge, TN
For something a little different, make your way to Pigeon Forge, TN. En route, you can marvel at the awe-inspiring views of the Smoky Mountains, pass through Sevierville, and reach your fun-filled destination.
Pigeon Forge is home to Dollywood, an Appalachian-themed amusement park that includes thrilling coasters and other rides, entertainment and musical performances, and plenty of dining options.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
If you want to venture beyond Tennessee, pack up and hit the road for Gulf Shores, Alabama. The beach town, which sits on the Gulf of Mexico’s shores, is around 8 hours from Shelbyville. The drive might seem long, but you will love the beautiful scenery.
Along the way, stop at Destin, Florida, for some extra sightseeing, and take a dip in the emerald waters.
Whether you prefer stunning vistas, historical landmarks, or adrenaline-pumping amusement parks, there are endless possibilities for road trips outside Shelbyville, TN. These five road trip ideas will take you to various destinations, introducing you to new sights, sounds, and cultures. Pack up your car and head out for an unforgettable trip.
