5 day road trip ideas

Question

Couple of us flying in from Ireland and Australia for 10 days (birthday celebration) in and around Atlanta and would love some ideas for a road trip. We have 5 days on a road trip and 3 days in Atlanta for a music festival. Thinking of up to Nashville and return but would welcome any ideas. Food, drink, music, bit of walking and chilling will be on the agenda. Will have a rental car.

Never been to this part of the States.

Thanks in advance.

Answer

It sounds like you’re in for a fantastic trip! A 5-day road trip around the southeastern United States offers a mix of scenic drives, great food, lively music, and a bit of relaxation. Given that you have a rental car and a love for food, drink, music, and some outdoor exploration, I’d suggest a route that combines a mix of cultural experiences, lively cities, and some beautiful nature spots. Here’s an itinerary idea that loops from Atlanta to Nashville and back, but with a few exciting stops along the way:

Day 1: Atlanta to Chattanooga (2 hours drive)

Chattanooga, Tennessee: Start your road trip with a short drive to Chattanooga, a city that’s known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and emerging food and drink scene. Explore the Chattanooga Choo Choo, and visit the Tennessee Aquarium or take a scenic walk across the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. The Southside district has great restaurants and bars to sample some local flavors. Enjoy craft beer at places like OddStory Brewing, or relax with a cocktail at the Whiskey Thief.

Day 2: Chattanooga to Nashville (2 hours drive)

Nashville, Tennessee: Nashville is all about live music, food, and Southern hospitality. When you get there, check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and take a stroll down Broadway, where you’ll find honky-tonk bars with live bands playing all day and night. For a fun dining experience, head to Hattie B’s for Nashville-style hot chicken or enjoy the upscale vibe at Etch for creative dishes. In the evening, catch a live show at the Ryman Auditorium or Tootsies Orchid Lounge for a more casual, lively bar experience.

Day 3: Nashville to Louisville (3 hours drive)

Louisville, Kentucky: Louisville is the home of bourbon and is a must-visit for food and drink lovers. Explore the Bourbon Trail and visit distilleries like Old Forester or Maker’s Mark to get a taste of Kentucky’s famous bourbon. For food, try some classic Southern comfort food at Harvest or head to Jack Fry’s for upscale Southern dining. In the evening, you can visit a bar with live jazz or country music. If you're into walking and nature, check out the Big Four Bridge for a scenic walk over the river.

Day 4: Louisville to Knoxville (2.5 hours drive)

Knoxville, Tennessee: Knoxville is a great spot for a laid-back day with plenty of food, drink, and outdoor activities. Explore the Market Square area for eclectic restaurants and shops. For a dose of nature, visit Ijams Nature Center for hiking, kayaking, or just enjoying the beautiful surroundings. If you’re interested in food, try the Sunspot for great Southern fare or grab a drink at Old City Wine Bar for a more intimate experience. Knoxville is a great blend of urban and nature, making it a nice stop on your journey.

Day 5: Knoxville to Atlanta (3 hours drive)

Return to Atlanta: Head back to Atlanta for your last day. You could spend the day relaxing in one of Atlanta’s famous parks, like Piedmont Park, or if you're into history, visit the Atlanta History Center or the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Finish the day with a farewell dinner at a trendy Atlanta spot like The Optimist for seafood, or head to South City Kitchen for classic Southern cuisine with a modern twist.

Other Recommendations:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: If you enjoy hiking or scenic drives, the Smoky Mountains, just outside of Knoxville, offer stunning views and hiking trails. If time permits, consider adding a detour here for a day or half-day of outdoor exploration.
Music in Memphis: If you're willing to extend your trip, you could also detour to Memphis, Tennessee (a 3-hour drive from Nashville), where you can explore Graceland, the Sun Studio, and enjoy live music on Beale Street.

With this route, you’ll have a balanced mix of city life, food, music, and a bit of outdoor relaxation, which sounds like a perfect fit for your birthday celebration road trip. Enjoy your travels through the southeastern U.S.!