Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee
The drive from Chattanooga to Nashville-Davidson can be a beautiful trip with many hidden gems along the way. The journey is approximately 134 miles, which typically takes around two hours and 15 minutes. Today, we'll explore five unexpected places that can make the trip even more enjoyable.
Halfway Point: Manchester, TN
Before we dive into our list, it's essential to mention the halfway point: Manchester, TN. Manchester is a charming town with a population of around 10,000 people. While the town itself can be a pleasant place to stretch your legs, our list of destinations will focus on places beyond Manchester. We suggest taking a break here to enjoy a cup of coffee or grab a bite to eat before embarking on the rest of your journey.
1. Rutledge Falls
As you leave Manchester, drive approximately 45 miles north to Rutledge Falls. Rutledge Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that cascades down over 40 feet of rocks. It's a fantastic spot for hikers or anyone who loves the outdoors. There's a bit of hiking involved to reach the falls, but the view is worth every step. We recommend packing a picnic, taking in the view, and relaxing by the waterfall.
Food Recommendation: Bring a packed picnic for a relaxing outdoor meal.
2. Lynchburg, TN
Drive another seven miles, and you'll find yourself in Lynchburg, TN. The town is famous for its whiskey distillery, Jack Daniels, and it's worth a visit, even if you're not typically a whiskey person. The Jack Daniels Distillery Tour is a must-visit if you're interested in the distilling process, and there's even a tasting room. Alongside the whiskey, there is also an abundance of cute local shops to wander through.
Food Recommendation: Try the Jack Daniel's BBQ sauce, which can be found and purchased in most stores within the town.
3. Shelbyville, TN
Shelbyville is a small town situated about 30 miles from Lynchburg. At a glance, Shelbyville may seem like a typical small town, but it has an interesting piece of history that many people are not aware of, "Walking Horse Capital of the World". From late summer into early autumn, you'll find their big event of the year, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration or, as locals call it, "The Celebration." It's a week-long event, full of horse shows, food trucks, and exhibitors. It's a charming and educational experience for all ages.
Food Recommendation: Stop by Shelbyville's Farmers Market to pick up some fresh produce.
4. Natchez Trace State Park
A few miles northwest of Shelbyville is Natchez Trace State Park. The park is the perfect spot to stretch your legs, walk the trails, or even spend the night at one of their campsites. The park is home to over 48,000 acres, which means there's plenty of outdoor activities to take part in. We recommend hiking, fishing, and swimming. Take a moment to connect with nature and take in the peace and quiet of the park.
Food Recommendation: Pack a lunch or dinner and dine al fresco in one of the park's many picnic areas.
5. Dickson, TN
Dickson is our final destination, located around 40 miles north of Natchez Trace State Park. The city has a rich history, which came to life in the road system of the town. The "Old Yellow" is a local driving tour of historic homes and businesses that date back to before the Civil War. It's an excellent way to see the local architecture and learn about the town's history.
Food Recommendation: Try some of the freshly baked goods at the local bakery, Nicky's Chuck Wagon.
Conclusion
There you have it, five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee. Whether you're interested in whiskey, outdoor adventures, or learning about history, this trip has something for everyone. Now, pack your bags, rent a car, and hit the road!