Driving from Nashville to Atlanta – secrets spots and incredible stops.

Josh SchukmanJanuary 10, 2023

Driving from Nashville to Atlanta – secrets spots and incredible stops.

Nashville to Atlanta | What to Expect and Where to Stop

Whether by a car, truck or RV/Camper, if you’re planning a road trip from Nashville to Atlanta, you’re in for an exciting journey. This route takes you through some of the most beautiful and historic parts of the South, with plenty of stops along the way to explore. 

The best time of year to drive from Nashville to Atlanta is during the spring or fall months. During these times, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, making for a comfortable and enjoyable drive. The route from Nashville to Atlanta is about 300 miles and takes around 4 hours to complete without stops.

From Nashville, you’ll drive south on I-24 through Chattanooga and into Georgia before reaching your destination in Atlanta. Along the way, there are plenty of interesting places to stop and explore, so let’s take a look at what you can expect.

Stop at the Lookout Mountain Parkway

Lookout Mountain on drive from Nashville to Atlanta
Photo Credit: Frank Kehren via Flikr/Creative Commons

You’ll drive through the scenic Lookout Mountain Parkway in Georgia. This stretch of road offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and is a great place to take a break from the highway and add to your Instagram account. Be sure to stop at Rock City Gardens for some breathtaking views and wander its gardens and accessible trails.

Visit Chattanooga, Tennessee

Visit Chattanooga on your drive from Nashville
Photo Credit: Jeff Miller via Unsplash

Your second stop is only a few minutes away – Chattanooga, Tennessee. This city offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages. Take a stroll along the Riverwalk, explore the Tennessee Aquarium, or take a ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. If you build up an appetite be sure to stop at the famous Big River Grille & Brewing Works for some delicious food and local craft beer.

Check out Dalton, Georgia

Stop in Dalton Georgia sign on your drive to Atlanta from Nashville
Photo Credit: Jimmy Everson via Flikr/Creative Commons

If taking the I-75, your next stop should be Dalton, Georgia. This small town is home to some of the best antique shopping in the South. Spend an afternoon browsing through vintage stores and picking up unique finds. A popular restaurant in Dalton is the Red Pepper Taqueria, which serves up delicious Mexican food. Just make sure you get there early!

Take a side trip to Rome, Georgia

Take a side trip to Rome, Georgia
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

If you are open to a small 20-mile detour why not make a stop in Rome, Georgia? This charming town is home to the historic Myrtle Hill Cemetery, where you can explore the graves of Civil War soldiers and learn about the area’s rich history.

Destination Atlanta

Driving to Atlanta from Nashville
Photo Credit: Joey Kyber Unsplash

Finally, after getting back on the I-75, you’ll arrive in Atlanta. Home to 5 million residents, this vibrant city offers a variety of attractions and activities for all ages. Visit the Georgia Aquarium, explore the World of Coca-Cola, or take a stroll through Centennial Olympic Park. If you’re looking for some great food, be sure to check out The Varsity for some classic southern cuisine.

Cloudland Canyon State Park for something different

Drive to Cloudland Canyon State Park near Atlanta
Photo Credit: Will Swann via Unsplash

If you need a break from city life, head to Cloudland Canyon State Park in Rising Fawn, Georgia. This park offers breathtaking views of the canyon and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing.

Driving in an RV/Camper?

If you are driving from Nashville in an RV/Camper it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for the journey. Before you leave, make sure your vehicle is in good condition and that you have all the necessary supplies for the trip. It’s also a good idea to research rest stops and campgrounds along the route so you can plan out where you’ll stop for the night. Additionally, make sure you have a full tank of gas and that your vehicle is stocked with food and drinks for the trip. With a little bit of planning, you can make the most of your RV road trip and create lasting memories.

A few final thoughts on driving from Nashville to Atlanta

No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone on this road trip from Nashville to Atlanta. The drive is relatively short and there are plenty of interesting stops along the way. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, historical sites, or unique restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to plan ahead and take advantage of all the attractions that this route has to offer. With a little bit of planning, you can make the most of your road trip and create lasting memories.

5 commonly asked questions by driving heading to Atlanta from Nashville

  1. How long does it take to drive from Nashville to Atlanta?

The driving time from Nashville to Atlanta is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. Depending on traffic and road conditions it could be as much as 4 hours and 30 minutes.

  1. Is it a straight drive from Nashville to Atlanta?

The drive from Nashville to Atlanta is mostly a straight route starting on -24, with some slight deviations around towns and cities.

  1. What is the distance from Nashville to Atlanta?

The distance from Nashville to Atlanta is approximately 186 miles (299 kilometres).

  1. What is the speed limit on the interstate from Nashville to Atlanta?

The speed limit on the interstate from Nashville to Atlanta is generally 65 mph (105 km/h). However, be sure to pay attention to any posted speed limit signs, as the speed limit can vary in certain areas.

  1. Are there any rest stops or places to stop along the way from Nashville to Atlanta?

Yes, there are several rest stops and places to stop along the way from Nashville to Atlanta. These may include gas stations, restaurants, and convenience stores. It’s a good idea to plan your stops in advance and take breaks to stretch your legs and stay refreshed on a long drive.

Josh and his wife traveled around the country in an '88 Airstream for 4+ years of full-time RVing. They made an unexpected pitstop in Montana in 2020 and haven't left since. That's because they got hooked on the glamping resort they run by Glacier National Park. Fittingly, they keep up their RVing love by renting out vintage Airstreams and other retro RVs to travelers hitting Montana.


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