Spring Break Travel Tips: Best Road Trips from Clarksville, TN

Spring break is the perfect time for families to escape, relax, and explore new destinations. Fortunately, Clarksville, TN, is surrounded by great family-friendly road trip options, all within a few hours’ drive. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just some downtime, there’s something for everyone on these quick getaways. Here are the best family-oriented road trips for spring break from Clarksville!

Nashville, TN: Big City Fun with a Family Twist

Just an hour from Clarksville, Nashville offers a perfect mix of entertainment and family-friendly fun. Start your adventure with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame, where your kids can learn about the roots of country music in an interactive and educational setting. Afterward, take a walk through Centennial Park and explore the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the famous Greek monument. It’s an educational experience surrounded by nature, with plenty of space for the kids to run and play.

Another great family stop is the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, where you can get up close to a variety of animals, from giraffes to tigers, and enjoy the zoo's playgrounds. Don’t miss the Adventure Science Center, which is filled with hands-on exhibits that will keep the little ones engaged and learning.

Mammoth Cave National Park, KY: A Natural Wonder

Mammoth Cave National Park, just two hours north of Clarksville, offers a thrilling outdoor experience for families who love nature. As the longest cave system in the world, it’s an awe-inspiring place for kids to explore. There are a variety of guided cave tours that cater to families, with easy and moderate options for younger kids to safely discover the underground world.

Above ground, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and boating along the Green River. The park also has several family-friendly programs, like ranger-led walks and wildlife viewing, making it an ideal spring break destination for nature-loving families.

Chattanooga, TN: Scenic Views and Family Adventures

Chattanooga, located about two and a half hours away, is a great family-friendly getaway, offering both outdoor adventures and educational experiences. Start by visiting Lookout Mountain, where families can enjoy stunning views and check out attractions like Rock City Gardens, which features unique rock formations and beautiful gardens. The Ruby Falls underground waterfall is another exciting attraction that’s both breathtaking and fun to visit as a family.

For more hands-on fun, the Tennessee Aquarium is a must-see. This world-class aquarium features both freshwater and saltwater exhibits, showcasing a variety of animals from around the world. Kids can get involved with interactive exhibits and even touch some of the animals. For even more fun, visit the Creative Discovery Museum, which has interactive play areas designed for younger children, making learning feel like an adventure. Don’t forget to swing by Clumpies’ Ice Cream when you check out the historical Pedestrian Bridge!

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN: Mountain Fun for the Whole Family 

For an outdoor adventure packed with family-friendly attractions, head to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, just over three hours away in the Great Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers easy, scenic hikes for families, where you can spot wildlife, enjoy picnics, and take in breathtaking views. Don’t forget to stop by Cades Cove, a popular spot where families can drive through the cove to see wild turkeys, deer, and even black bears!

In Gatlinburg, visit the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, a favorite for families, with exhibits like touch tanks, penguin encounters, and a glass tunnel that allows you to walk underwater. Over in Pigeon Forge, the whole family will enjoy the fun at Dollywood, a theme park featuring family-friendly rides, live performances, and festivals throughout the year. There’s something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to young children, making it a perfect destination for family fun.

Road Trips Made Easy

Spring break is the perfect time to bond with your family while exploring new places. These road trips from Clarksville offer a variety of family-friendly destinations that are easy to reach and packed with fun activities. From the outdoor adventures of Mammoth Cave to the cultural experiences in Nashville and the theme park fun in Pigeon Forge, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab the kids, and hit the road for a spring break full of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories!

Story by: Izabel Hershey