Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Knoxville, TN
Knoxville sits at the foothills of the Smokies with access to the University of Tennessee, the Ijams Nature Center, and the Tennessee River.
The Ijams Nature Center and the Tennessee River offer urban nature in the Smokies' shadow.
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Popular Interests
or browse all12 destinations near Knoxville
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.9 by 50.1k+ visitors) · 51 min from Knoxville · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Yahoo Falls Overlook
Whitley City, KY 42653
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 43 min from Knoxville · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Tuckaleechee Caverns
Townsend, TN 37882
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 4.9k+ visitors) · 50 min from Knoxville · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cloudland Canyon State Park
Rising Fawn, GA 30738
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 7.2k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 10 min from Knoxville · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Natural Arch Scenic Area
KY 42634, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 41 min from Knoxville · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
High Falls
Lookout Mountain, GA 30750
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 1 hr 56 min from Knoxville · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Appalachian Caverns
Blountville, TN 37617
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 41 min from Knoxville · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
KY 40965, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.8 by 3.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 29 min from Knoxville · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Blowing Cave Mill
Sevierville, TN 37876
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 53 min from Knoxville · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Lost Sea Adventure
Sweetwater, TN 37874
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 8.3k+ visitors) · 55 min from Knoxville · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Forbidden Caverns
Sevierville, TN 37876
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.1k+ visitors) · 55 min from Knoxville · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rock City Gardens
Lookout Mountain, GA 30750
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 28.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 54 min from Knoxville · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Knoxville, TN?
The best day trips from Knoxville include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Knoxville?
Most great day trips from Knoxville are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Knoxville?
Many of the best day trips near Knoxville are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Knoxville?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Knoxville, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Knoxville?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Knoxville make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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