Your Guide to an Unforgettable Tennessee Road Trip

Oct 15, 2024

Your guide to the best Tennessee road trip depends on what you’re most interested in seeing and what excites you the most. With over 400 miles of sights to explore, Tennessee has so much to offer. From lively cities to quiet towns and scenic mountain views, this route covers the state's most memorable spots. So, let’s map out a journey that takes you through Tennessee’s must-see destinations.

Your 9-Stop Tennessee Road Trip

1. Memphis
2. Nashville
3. Leiper's Fork
4. Franklin
5. Lynchburg
6. Chattanooga
7. Knoxville
8. Pigeon Forge
9. The Great Smoky Mountains

Stop 1: Memphis

Memphis is where it all starts. This city is packed with music, history, and some awesome spots for riders. Sitting along the Mississippi River, Memphis offers a mix of city life and scenic routes that make for a memorable ride.

A ride down Beale Street, especially, is a must for any visitor. This street is the heart of the blues scene, where you’ll find live music pouring out of bars and street performers adding to the atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to park your bike, stretch your legs, and soak in the sounds and sights that make Memphis famous. Another essential stop is Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, who was a lover of Triumph motorcycles himself. The ride to Graceland offers a glimpse into Memphis' unique neighborhoods, giving you a feel for the city beyond the downtown’s busyness.

Looking for a break from the hustle & bustle? Skip the craziness

If you want to start this ride off on a calmer note and skip the craziness of downtown Memphis, the Mississippi Riverfront is a great spot. Riding along Tom Lee Park provides some great river views and a refreshing breeze, especially in the evening. It’s an ideal place to take a break, enjoy the open air, and watch the riverboats pass by. If you’re up for something a little different and a bit longer, the Great River Road extends south from Memphis. It’s a smooth, open ride that gives you a sense of freedom as you move alongside the river.

Riders appreciate Memphis not just for its sights but for its atmosphere. The roads here provide a mix of everything—from buzzing city streets to quieter stretches along the river. And, of course, Memphis has plenty of spots to grab a bite before continuing your journey. Make sure to stop by Central BBQ or Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken to fuel up. Memphis can be a lot to take in, but it's the best way to start this Tennessee road trip, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Stop 2: Nashville

After experiencing Memphis, head east to Nashville, about 212 miles away, or a little over a 3-hour ride. Known as the heart of country music, Nashville offers a mix of sights and activities that are worth exploring. As you arrive, make your way to Broadway, where live music fills the air, and the streets are lined with music venues and local shops. It's a great spot to park the bike, take a walk, and feel the city's lively atmosphere.

For those of you who are interested in Nashville’s general history, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Ryman Auditorium are nearby and offer a peek into the city's musical legacy. If you’re looking for a bit of green space, Centennial Park provides a peaceful spot with the unique Parthenon replica in the middle. You can take advantage of the park’s one-mile walking for a quick stretch! 

Nashville also has plenty of food options for a quick break. Grab some hot chicken from Hattie B’s or Prince’s (which has several locations throughout the city) before getting ready for the next leg of the trip. With the city in your rearview mirror, it's time to head to the quiet roads and small-town charm of Leiper's Fork.

Stop 3: Leiper's Fork

After the energy of Nashville, a quick 30-minute ride brings you to Leiper’s Fork. This small town is a must-stop on your road trip because it’s the kind of place where you can slow down, stretch your legs, and really take in the local scene. The main street has a calm feel with its local shops, art galleries, and not-so-busy streets. It's the perfect spot to park the bike and wander for a while.

One of the highlights here is Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant. You’ll want to stop in for a hearty meal and, if you’re lucky, catch some live music that captures the spirit of Tennessee. For those interested in local traditions, the Leiper’s Fork Distillery is a short ride away and offers a look into Tennessee whiskey-making, something this area is known for.

The roads around Leiper’s Fork are worth the trip alone. Taking a detour onto the Natchez Trace Parkway nearby gives you a peaceful stretch of road that feels made for riders. We personally recommend the Natchez Trace Parkway all the time, so we might be biased, but we definitely think it’s a spot that’s worth checking out.

Want a Local to Show You the Best Stretches of Tennessee?

Roads like the Natchez Trace and the backroads around Leiper's Fork are the kind of rides that get better when you're following someone who knows every pull-off and turn. Riders Share offers motorcycle experiences in Nashville led by locals who've ridden these routes and can help you hit the highlights without spending the night before buried in maps. If you'd rather focus on the ride than the route, a guided experience is a great way to see more of the state.

Stop 4: Franklin

Leaving Leiper’s Fork, it's just a short ride south to Franklin, a town rich in history and full of spots that make it worth the visit. Franklin's main street welcomes you with its brick buildings and local shops, offering a nice blend of old and new. This town is known for its Civil War history, with the Battle of Franklin taking place here in 1864. Today, sites like the Carter House and Carnton offer a glimpse into this significant part of the town's past.

Start exploring this city with a ride through Downtown Franklin, which is known as America’s favorite main street district. Park your bike and take a walk along the tree-lined streets, and you’ll soon come across places like the Franklin Theatre, an old-school cinema that's been part of the town since the 1930s. If you're up for a bit more history, Lotz House Museum gives you another look into the Civil War’s impact on the area.

Riding around Franklin, or walking if you’re up for a break, offers quiet, scenic roads, which allow you to take the time to really digest all the history this place has to offer. It’s a good location to do some learning before heading off to the next stop in Lynchburg.

Stop 5: Lynchburg

Next up on the road trip is Lynchburg, about an hour and a half ride southeast from Franklin. This small town is best known as the home of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, where Tennessee whiskey has been crafted for over 150 years. The ride to Lynchburg takes you through some quiet backroads, setting the tone for a relaxing stop in this iconic spot.

Once you arrive, head straight to the distillery for a tour. Even if you’re not a whiskey drinker, it’s a fascinating experience to learn about the history and craftsmanship that goes into making one of the world’s most famous whiskeys. The tours offer a peek into the distilling process, as well as the stories behind Jack Daniel himself. Just a heads-up: Lynchburg is located in a dry county, so while you can buy bottles, you won’t be able to sample them on-site.

What Else Does Lynchburg Have to Offer?

Lynchburg's town square is also worth a visit. Park your bike and explore the shops, many of which sell unique gifts and locally made goods. Lynchburg Hardware & General Store is a fun stop where you can pick up Jack Daniel’s memorabilia. For lunch, Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House offers classic Southern dishes served family-style, adding to the small-town experience.

Riding through Lynchburg gives you a sense of Tennessee’s slower pace, making it a memorable stop on the trip. After exploring, it’s time to gear up and head east toward Chattanooga.

Stop 6: Chattanooga

Leaving Lynchburg behind, it’s time to head southeast to Chattanooga, which is about a two-hour ride away. This city has plenty to offer and is a great spot to explore, with a mix of outdoor activities and local sights to take in before the next leg of the trip.

Start with a ride up to Lookout Mountain. The road leading to the top offers some fun twists and turns that make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. Once you’re at the top, you can visit Rock City and Ruby Falls or simply take in the views from Point Park, where you can see the Tennessee River and the city spread out below.

Explore Downtown Chattanooga

When you’re ready to explore the city, head downtown and park the bike near the Chattanooga Riverwalk. This area is lined with shops, cafes, and outdoor art, offering plenty of ways to relax and take in the surroundings. If you're in the mood for a casual meal, stop by Main Street Meats for a locally sourced bite or Sticky Fingers Ribhouse for some classic Southern barbecue.

Chattanooga also has a rich railroad history, and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a neat stop to learn more about it. We won’t give away all the details, but if this is up your alley, you'll get to see and hear about the trains that shaped the region's past. It’s a nice way to spend an hour or two if you’re looking to take it easy. After exploring Chattanooga, it’s time to gear up and make your way northeast toward Knoxville.

Stop 7: Knoxville

From Chattanooga, it’s a 1 hour and 45-minute ride northeast to Knoxville. This city has a little bit of everything to keep you interested. Once you get into town, head to Downtown Knoxville and park the bike near Market Square. This lively area is filled with local shops, cafes, and plenty of spots to people-watch. It’s a good place to sit and enjoy the scene before getting into everything the city has to offer.

For a change of pace, take a short ride over to Ijams Nature Center. Spread across 300 acres, it’s an easy escape into nature without leaving the city. If you feel like stretching your legs, the trails here are a nice break from the road, or you can simply take in the peaceful surroundings. Another great option is riding along the Riverwalk, also known as Volunteer Landing, beside the Tennessee River.

When hunger kicks in, Knoxville won’t disappoint. Stock & Barrel is known for its mouthwatering burgers, while Calhoun’s on the River serves up a barbecue with a view. With its mix of downtown energy and green spaces, Knoxville makes for a great 7th location. Once you’re ready, it's time to head toward the second to last stop of your trip: the Great Smoky Mountains.

Stop 8: Pigeon Forge

After a short 45-minute ride from Knoxville, you'll find yourself in Pigeon Forge. As you come into town, you’ll notice the main strip lined with shops and restaurants. It’s a bit of a change from the previous stops, but that’s what makes it interesting.

The Island in Pigeon Forge is where we’d recommend stopping once you’re in the city. It has plenty of shops, places to grab a quick snack, and spots to stretch your legs. And, depending on when you take this road trip, they have a long list of annual list of events that are sure to keep you busy. If you’re up for something different, you can head to Dollywood. Even if you don’t go into the park, the ride there gives you a look at the surrounding mountains, which is a helping hand in preparing you for our final stop.

Take a Minute to Experience Pigeon Forge’s Natural Beauty

When you’re ready to take in more of the natural beauty, hop on the Foothills Parkway just outside of town. The road offers some incredible views of the Smoky Mountains, with plenty of pull-offs to park your bike, and simply enjoy the moment. It’s a relaxing ride that sets the tone as you get closer to the end of your road trip. 

Before you head out, stop by The Old Mill Restaurant for a meal. It’s a local spot known for its Southern comfort food and is the perfect way to recharge. With Pigeon Forge behind you, it's time to ride into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains for the final leg of this journey.

Stop 9: The Great Smoky Mountains

You’ve made it! The final stop on this Tennessee road trip brings you to the Great Smoky Mountains. From Pigeon Forge, it’s a short ride, but the change in scenery will be a nice way to wrap up the journey. As you enter the park, you'll notice how the roads slow down, inviting you to take your time and enjoy the surroundings.

The Smokies are known for their mist-covered peaks, which create the "smoky" effect that gives the park its name. The area is also full of diverse plant and animal life, with over 1,500 types of flowering plants and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. This place isn’t just about scenery, though, it also carries a deep history. As you explore, you might come across some of the old cabins and homesteads that have been preserved to tell the story of early settlers.

The Great Smoky Mountains truly are a fitting end to this road trip. After all the miles you've covered, it’s a perfect place to pause, take a breath, and appreciate the quiet. You’ll get a chance to reflect on everything you’ve seen and experienced throughout your ride across Tennessee.

Ride Through Tennessee with a Motorcycle Rental from Riders Share

Ready to experience all that Tennessee has to offer? At Riders Share, we make it easy for you to find motorcycle rentals in Tennessee, whether you're looking for a motorcycle rental in Nashville, Chattanooga, or any other part of the state. With our wide selection of bikes, you can choose the perfect ride to match your road trip style. We offer flexible rental options, allowing you to explore Tennessee on your own terms. If you're planning your next adventure, our platform lets you quickly look up and reserve a bike near your chosen starting point. Let us help you get on the road and make the most of every mile through this incredible state.

Last Stop

So, there you have it: 9 great stops that create an even better experience across Tennessee. From the sights in Nashville to the quiet of the Great Smoky Mountains, this road trip covers the best the state has to offer. But there's always more to explore! If you’re looking to plan your next ride, check out our blog on the 10 Top Motorcycle Rides in Tennessee for more route ideas. Or, if you’re riding in the fall, don’t miss our guide to the 13 Scenic Locations to See Autumn Foliage in Tennessee. Each ride offers more of what makes Tennessee unforgettable.