Tennessee Road Trip: Memphis and Nashville

Hit America’s music route and wander through bucket list destinations.
Discover the best things to do and must-sees in Memphis and Nashville.

This is an amazing road trip to take year-round. It navigates you through nothing less than the Blues Capital of the World and America’s Music City.

If you love music, you must take this trip now! And even if music is not exactly your passion, go. This trip has so many bucket list destinations along the way that not taking advantage of this opportunity while living in Dallas is a shame!

Think Elvis, Martin Luther King, the country music mecca, world-famous concert and live music venues, one of the best barbecues in the U.S., America’s most famous streets. You got it all covered and more.

This route is ideal to be taken in 5+ days if you want to do the whole thing – or alternatively you can only do the Memphis stretch during a long weekend.

If you are looking for shorter trips to take from Dallas, take a look into this ‘Weekend Getaways from Dallas’ post.

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Road Trip Itinerary from Dallas to Nashville

Go Elvis! Have the time of your life at one of America’s liveliest cities and country music hub. Immerse into the roots of American music and the Civil Rights Movement. The road trip between Dallas and Nashville is epic and totally worth the drive.

Find out bellow the best stops and things to see between Dallas, Memphis and Nashville. Discover must-sees in these cities, the very best things to do to make the most of your trip.

1. Memphis, TN

450 miles/ 6h 30m from Dallas

Memphis is in your way between Dallas and Nashville, and a destination that worth the trip by itself.

It’s among my top 3 destinations to visit from Dallas: not too far, as iconic as it gets and offering so many interesting attractions per square feet that it makes it a non-brainer in my opinion!

Plan to spend 2 to 3 days there. Once in Memphis, check on the city’s most famous attractions:

Sun Studio

Sun Studio is the very place where Elvis recorded his first album and were careers of music legends such as B.B. King and Johnny Cash were launched. The place is pure history and considered by many as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll.

It is also still working as a recording studio, making the visit to Sun Studio even more authentic and unique.

Graceland

Visit Graceland, the King of Rock’s last home and gravesite.

The place is sort of an “Elvis Disneyland”, and although it seemed a bit too touristic for my taste at the first glance, it proved to be and amazing place to visit.

Expect to stroll through the King of Rock’s former house, preserved as the way it used to be when he lived there. Visit the home gardens, a small museum and the meditation garden, where Elvis is buried.

Whether you like rock ‘n’ roll or not, Elvis is Elvis and somehow visiting Graceland made him look more ‘human’ to me.

Many people say it is a way too touristy attraction and they are not wrong about that. But in my opinion visiting Memphis and not visiting Graceland is like going to Paris and not going up the Eiffel Tower. In other words, Graceland is a must-visit while you are in Memphis – don’t skip this one.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Stax Museum of American Soul Music is located on the original site of Stax Records Studio.

It’s a tribute to American soul music, with an impressive and rare collection of music memorabilia. Isaac Hayes famous golden Cadillac is on display. Music classics are everywhere. You can even hit the dance floor at the Express Yourself area.

An immersive experience into Memphis Soul Music that leave many blown away.

Beale Street

Step on historic Beale Street, the ‘Home of Blues’. A National Historic Landmark and hands down one of the most iconic streets in the US.

Stroll up and down Beale Street between 2nd and 4th streets. Check on memorabilia shops, lively pubs and live music venues. Stop by the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Catch a live concert at B.B. King’s Blues Club – offering also afternoon family friendly shows. Try the legendary Dyer’s Burger, which has been using the same grease to make their burgers for over a century!

Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is just off Beale Street and a neat place to learn Memphis music history and legacy.

Civil Rights Museum/ Lorraine Motel

The Civil Rights Museum is simply amazing. It was one of my favorite experiences in Memphis – and I wasn’t expecting that!

It is located inside the former Lorraine Motel, the place where Martin Luther King was murdered over 50 years ago.

The murdering scene is preserved – and it’s chilling and touching at the same time – but there is much more than that to the Civil Rights Museum. It takes you back in time to the context preceding the crime, through an outstanding and inspiring exhibition. And gives you a better comprehension of American society back then and nowadays. I’ve loved it.

Peabody Ducks

The Peabody Ducks are an odd and unique Memphis attraction. You won’t see it anywhere else in the world, that’s for sure.

Every day, exactly at 11 am and 5 pm, trained ducks that call the top of the Peabody Hotel home, exit the elevator into the lobby. They then march towards the lobby’s center fountain to take a bath, guided by a ceremony master. Wacky.

The Peabody Ducks’ March is a free attraction. Just walk into the Peabody Hotel lobby and find a spot to see them (arrive 15 to 30 minutes earlier). Or maybe sit at the bar to have a drink while you try to make sense of what you are watching lol.

At the hotel’s sidewalk you also find sort of a Duck’s Hall of Fame, cool for some snapshots!

Memphis Barbecue

Try Memphis famous barbecue at Rendezvous or Central BBQ (Downtown location).

The Rendezvous is just down the street from the Peabody Hotel and famous for the ribs. The Central BBQ is by the Lorraine Motel/ Civil Rights Museum. So, take advantage and combine a barbecue lunch or dinner with a visit to one of these attractions.

2. Nashville, TN

212 miles/ 3h 00m from Memphis

Nashville is all about music. It is ‘America’s Music Capital’ and the hub of country music in the US. It attracts songwriters, aspiring singers and music lovers worldwide, making Nashville’s music and nightlife scene simply amazing.

A trip to Nashville will immerse you into everything music. Iconic landmarks and music venues, top-notch museums, lively streets and live music is the mix of attractions you can expect to find there.

Check bellow the best things to do in Nashville and must-see attractions, as well as hidden gems off the beaten path.

Have the time of your life at the “Music Capital of the World”!

Grand Ole Opry House

An American icon, the Grand Ole Opry takes place every week in Nashville. It’s the longest running radio show in the nation, with country music idols and contemporary artists performing on stage.

In 1974 the Grand Ole Opry moved from the Ryman Auditorium to the Grand Ole Opry House, built to be able to host larger crowds of the increasingly popular show. The Grand Ole Opry House is currently listed in the National Register of Historic Places and one of Nashville’s top attractions.

You can simply tour the Grand Ole Opry House and this by itself is already a bucket-list style attraction not to be missed. But for an unparalleled experience, plan to watch the Grand Ole Opry Show there! It’s performed every week – check the calendar and buy your tickets in advance here. Top off with a post-show backstage tour and follow the steps of the music legends that once performed there.

Ryman Auditorium

Ryman Auditorium is an over a century old Historic Landmark, aka as the “Mother Church” of country music. A must-see for anyone visiting Nashville.

It’s hosted celebrities such as Charlie Chaplin, Elvis Presley and Theodore Roosevelt throughout the years. The Ryman Auditorium was also home to the famous live radio and TV show Grand Ole Opry for over 30 years, before the Grand Ole Opry House construction.

Ryman Auditorium offers daily self-guided and guided behind-the-scene tours that take you through the music venue and museum. For a once in a lifetime experience in Nashville, you can also watch a live music concert there!

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Get into Nashville musical roots and history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

The museum holds one of the world’s most impressive and largest country music collections, with instruments, costumes and all sort of music artifacts. The Hall of Fame takes you through the most famous country artists of all times.

It is a large and super interesting exhibition, a treat for country music fans but also enjoyable even if it’s not your favorite music style. A must-see Nashville attraction.

Make sure to opt for the add on to tour the historic RCA Studio B on music row (shuttle included).

RCA Studio B and Music Row

Step on the grounds where Elvis recorded over 200 songs and where over 1,000 American hits where brought to life by artists such as Willie Nelson, Dollie Parton and Roger Miller, only to name a few.

See in person the studios and equipment used back in the golden times. Listen to the soundtracks recorded in the studio. Touring the legendary RCA Studio B is an authentic and unique experience you shouldn’t miss while in Nashville.

It’s located at the Music Row, Nashville’s country music heart, home to record labels, studios and radio stations.

Live Music Venues

Nashville is all about live music and you can find amazing music spots in almost every corner. The most iconic ones, not to be missed, are the Blue Bird Cafe, Wildhorse Saloon and Robert’s Western World.

Robert’s Western World is considered by many the best honky-tonk in Nashville. The place to go to sip a beer, grab a bite and listen to high-quality country music.

The Bluebird Cafe is the best place to experience an authentic and intimate Nashville experience, the famous songwriters’ sessions, with musicians playing their own songs.

The Wildhorse Saloon is the perfect place to hit the dance floor, offering daily free line dancing classes.

Downtown Nashville

Broadway, Johnny Cash Museum and John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Stroll down the iconic Broadway Street street to get into the Nashville vibe. Stop by the shops, pubs and live music venues.

For a lunch bite and live music, stop by the famous Robert’s Western World. The fried bologna sandwich, moon Pie and cold PBR are Nashville staples. For a treat, try locals favorite Goo Goo Shop and Dessert Bar – you can even take a class and make your own candy there.

Then burn out the extra calories and enjoy amazing Nashville skyline views walking across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, an over than a century old bridge only a few blocks away from the Broadway. The Johnny Cash Museum is right off Broadway and takes you through the music icon life through authentic artifacts and memorabilia.

The Gulch

For something out of the beaten path in Nashville, head to The Gulch, a trendy neighborhood with famous graffiti murals, local shops and restaurants.

Start with lunch at the nearby Arnold’s Country Kitchen, an award winning classic and Nashville essential restaurant, considered one of the best restaurants in the south. Don’t expect fanciness – it’s a laid-back over the counter restaurant – but the food is simply amazing (the best fried catfish I’ve ever had).

Head then to 11th Street and stroll through the boutiques and cafes. Check the amazing graffiti murals around. – don’t miss the famous What Lifts You Wings mural.

Greek-revival Architecture - Parthenon, Tennessee State Capitol and Belle Meade Plantation

Nashville is home to the world’s only life-sized replica of the Greek Parthenon. The Parthenon operates as a gallery and Nashville’s art museum. A curious attraction, at least. It’s the centerpiece of the beautiful Centennial Park. The closest you can get to the Greek Parthenon without the price tag of a flying ticket to Athens 🙂

The Tennessee State Capitol, one of the oldest State Capitols in operation in the U.S., also carries the Greek-revival style in its beautiful over 150 years old building. It offers free guided tours.

Belle Meade Plantation is a well-preserved 19th century mansion, with Greek-revival architecture. Touring it is stepping back in time into the big plantations and slavery era, an interesting experience. Belle Meade Plantation is also home to a winery and free tastings are offered with the tour.

Side Trips from Nashville

Here are some cool side trips to take from Nashville. Bonus ideas on how to enjoy your road trip from Dallas to Nashville to the fullest!

Franklin's Historic District (0h30 from Nashville)

Site of the last big battle of the American Civil War, full of southern charm and home to ‘Americas Favorite Main Street’, Franklin will captivate all types of travelers.

To get into the small southern town vibe, head to Downtown Franklin and stroll down Main Street through boutiques, coffees, restaurants and historic landmarks. Take an insta-worthy shot at the historic Franklin Theatre. Stop by Landmark Booksellers, one of Franklin’s oldest buildings and the place that inspired the New York Times best-seller ‘The Bridge’. Check on The Factory, just off Main Street, a historic building listed in the National Register of Historic Places and home to a cool and unique mall.

To immerse into the town’s history, visit Carnton House, a historic plantation which played an important role into the infamous Battle of Franklin, being used as an improvised hospital to care for the wounded and bury the dead – over 10,000 casualties were reported.

For breakfast or just coffee and treats, try the lovely and mouthwatering Merridee’s Breadbasket. Lunch at local’s favorite 55 South is a must. Drinks? O’ Be Joyful offers great atmosphere, delicious burgers and an impressive whiskey’s selection.

Jack Daniel's Original Distillery (1h30 from Nashville)

Jack Daniel’s original distillery is in Lynchburg, only a short driving distance from Nashville!

There you can take daily tours to check the behind the scenes whiskey making process and taste whiskey straight from the barrels – once a privilege of only to a few lucky distillers and professional tasters.

A once in a lifetime opportunity for Whiskey lovers and a Jack Daniel’s fans.

Burgess Falls State Park (1h15 from Nashville)

For adventure seekers and outdoorsy folks, Burgess Falls State Park is within a short driving distance from Nashville and home to one of Tennessee’s must impressive natures wonders.

There you will find four beautiful waterfalls that can be seen throughout a moderate short trail. Among them, the amazing Burgess Falls, a stunning 130 ft tall cascade plunging into a large limestone gorge.

Summing Up

Looking for an epic road trip to take from Dallas? Look no further! The itinerary Dallas – Memphis – Nashville has more bucket-list places per mile than any other you can think of and it’s guaranteed to create amazing memories for life!

Only 6 hours away from Dallas, Memphis is all about Elvis, blues and history.

The Blues Capital of the World is a lively town home to the world-famous Beale Street, to Graceland (Elvis’ last official home and gravesite), to the legendary Sun Studio and Stax Records and to the infamous Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King was murdered over 50 years ago. It’s also famous for its mouthwatering barbecue as well as for the eccentric Peabody Ducks’ attraction.

Another 3 hours on the road and you’ll stumble upon Nashville, America’s Music City and one of the liveliest cities in the US – expect to find entertainment at its finest there.

In Nashville, you can watch a live performance at the acclaimed Grand Ole Opry House, tour the historic Ryman Auditorium, visit the superb Country Music Hall of Fame, and follow Elvis, Dollie Parton and another music legends’ steps at the RCA Studio B tour. Then get into the city’s vibe at the popular Broadway and listen to high-quality live music in famed venues – or everywhere!

You can even step into the only life-sized replica of the Greek Parthenon! And to follow on the Greek-Revival vibe, visit the historic Belle Meade Plantation and Winery and explore the Tennessee Capitol, one of the oldest State Capitols in operation in the US.

This post covered all the best things to do in Memphis and Nashville, as well as 3 amazing side trips you can take from Nashville: Franklin, Jack Daniel’s distillery and Burgess Falls.

Dig into it, choose your favorite attractions and make your own itinerary. Then hit the road, have the time of your life and get back here to tell your experience and share new findings.

If you know of any other must-visit place in Memphis and Nashville – or interesting places to stop along the way – please share your wisdom leaving a comment bellow. I’ll love to hear from you!