Tennessee is full of incredible places to visit, and you don’t need your own car to see them. Thanks to trains, shuttles, trolleys, and walkable downtowns, you can explore cities, mountains, and historic spots using public transit or just your own two feet.
Whether you’re hopping on a commuter rail from Nashville or strolling through a charming small town, these destinations make it easy to leave the driving to someone else and focus on the adventure.
1. Chattanooga Downtown
Getting around downtown Chattanooga without a car is surprisingly simple thanks to the free CARTA Downtown Shuttle. This handy service loops through the heart of the city, connecting major attractions like the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium without you spending a dime on transportation. Once you hop off, everything from restaurants to museums sits within easy walking distance.
The Tennessee Aquarium alone could fill half your day with its massive freshwater and saltwater exhibits. After you’ve admired the river otters and jellyfish, wander over to the nearby Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. The views of the Tennessee River are perfect for photos, and the bridge connects you to the North Shore neighborhood, packed with local shops and cafes.
Downtown also offers plenty of green space at Coolidge Park, complete with a restored carousel and river access. Grab lunch at one of the walkable eateries along the riverfront, then explore the Hunter Museum of American Art perched on a bluff. The combination of accessible transit, compact layout, and variety makes Chattanooga downtown one of Tennessee’s best car-free day trips.
2. Lookout Mountain by Incline Railway
Riding the Incline Railway up Lookout Mountain isn’t just transportation—it’s the entire experience rolled into one thrilling journey. This steep funicular climbs at a 72.7-percent grade, making it one of the steepest passenger railways in the world. You can reach the base station via rideshare or public transit from downtown Chattanooga, then let the railway do all the climbing work for you.
Once you reach the top, you’re greeted with sweeping views of seven states on a clear day from Point Park. The historic Civil War battlefield site adds layers of history to your visit, with monuments and walking paths that tell the story of the Battle Above the Clouds. Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall inside the mountain, offers guided tours that take you deep into cavern passages lit by colorful lights.
Rock City Gardens sits nearby with its famous Lover’s Leap overlook and quirky Fairyland Caverns. While these attractions charge admission, the scenery and unique experience justify the cost.
3. Lebanon via WeGo Star Commuter Rail
Lebanon offers one of the most authentic car-free day trip experiences from Nashville, thanks to the WeGo Star commuter rail that runs on weekdays. The train departs from Nashville’s Riverfront Station and glides east through suburbs and countryside, delivering you straight into Lebanon’s downtown area in about 45 minutes. It’s affordable, comfortable, and gives you time to relax or catch up on reading during the ride.
Once you arrive, Lebanon’s historic downtown square welcomes you with locally owned shops, antique stores, and friendly cafes. The town square layout makes navigation dead simple—everything radiates from the central courthouse. You can browse vintage finds, grab lunch at a family-run diner, or explore the quirky Cedar Creek Antique Mall if you’re into treasure hunting.
Lebanon also sits near several historic sites and parks within walking or short rideshare distance from the station. The slower pace compared to Nashville feels refreshing, giving you a genuine taste of small-town Tennessee life. Since the train runs on a set schedule, plan your return time in advance, but the predictable timetable actually makes the day trip stress-free and well-paced for a relaxing escape.
4. Mt. Juliet via WeGo Star
Mt. Juliet makes for an effortless suburban escape from Nashville using the same WeGo Star commuter rail. The train ride takes you east into Wilson County, where Mt. Juliet has grown into a bustling suburb with plenty of shopping and dining options near the station. It’s perfect when you want a change of scenery without the hassle of navigating traffic or finding parking.
The area around the Mt. Juliet station features chain restaurants, local eateries, and retail centers within walking distance or a quick rideshare hop. You can spend the afternoon browsing stores, catching a movie, or enjoying a leisurely lunch at one of the many casual dining spots.
Providence Marketplace and other shopping centers offer everything from clothing boutiques to home goods stores.
What makes Mt. Juliet appealing for a car-free outing is its low-pressure vibe. You’re not cramming in tourist attractions or rushing between landmarks—you’re simply enjoying a relaxed day of shopping, eating, and people-watching in a different setting.
The train schedule keeps you on track, and the suburban layout feels refreshingly uncomplicated. Pack light, bring a reusable bag for any purchases, and enjoy the simplicity of this easy day trip.
5. Hermitage via WeGo Star
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage area becomes surprisingly accessible when you take the WeGo Star to the Hermitage station. While the historic plantation itself sits a few miles from the train stop, rideshare services make the connection easy, and once you’re in the area, you can spend hours exploring without worrying about driving. The Hermitage offers a deep look into early American history with its preserved mansion, gardens, and museum exhibits.
Beyond the presidential estate, the Hermitage neighborhood has grown into a quieter corner of the Nashville metro area with local restaurants and shops worth checking out. You’ll find family-owned diners serving Southern comfort food and small businesses that reflect the community’s character. It’s a nice contrast to the high-energy tourist zones downtown, giving you a more authentic slice of Nashville-area life.
Plan your visit around the train schedule, and consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the Hermitage grounds if weather permits. The slower pace here lets you absorb history and scenery without the rush. Since you’re relying on the commuter rail, weekday trips work best, and the predictable schedule actually helps you structure your day efficiently while keeping transportation costs minimal.
6. Donelson via WeGo Star
Donelson gives you a short, realistic car-free outing from Nashville that feels like a mini neighborhood adventure. The WeGo Star stops right in Donelson, placing you within reach of local food spots, small shops, and a community vibe that’s distinct from downtown Nashville’s tourist-heavy zones. It’s ideal when you want to explore somewhere new without committing to a full-day excursion.
Local eateries in Donelson range from classic meat-and-three diners to international cuisine, reflecting the area’s diverse community. You can grab lunch, browse a few shops, and soak in the suburban atmosphere before hopping back on the train to Riverfront Station.
Because Donelson is a residential and commercial area rather than a tourist destination, you’ll experience Tennessee life as locals live it. That authenticity makes the trip worthwhile, especially if you’re curious about Nashville beyond the honky-tonks and Broadway crowds. The train ride itself is quick and affordable, and the flexibility to return whenever you’re ready keeps the day stress-free.
7. Downtown Knoxville
Knoxville’s downtown core is built for walking, with Market Square serving as the lively heart where locals and visitors gather. The fare-free Downtown Connector bus makes moving between neighborhoods effortless, linking Market Square to the Old City, Gay Street, and the waterfront. You can spend an entire day hopping between coffee shops, galleries, restaurants, and historic sites without ever needing a car or paying for transit.
Market Square buzzes with farmers markets, live music, and outdoor seating at local eateries. From there, stroll down Gay Street to admire the beautifully restored buildings and pop into boutiques, bookstores, and the historic Tennessee Theatre. The Old City neighborhood offers a grittier, artsy vibe with murals, craft breweries, and music venues that come alive in the evenings.
Museums like the Knoxville Museum of Art and the East Tennessee History Center add cultural depth to your visit, and both are accessible on foot or via the free connector. The compact layout means you can cover serious ground without exhausting yourself, and the variety of food options—from Southern comfort to international flavors—keeps you fueled.
Knoxville proves that mid-sized cities can be just as car-free friendly as major metros.
8. Memphis: Beale Street + National Civil Rights Museum
Memphis becomes an urban adventure once you’re downtown, where Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum anchor a walkable day trip. Beale Street pulses with blues history, live music venues, and barbecue joints that have fed generations of music lovers. Even during the day, the street’s energy is infectious, with street performers and neon signs hinting at the nightlife to come.
Just a short walk away, the National Civil Rights Museum stands at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. The museum’s powerful exhibits trace the civil rights movement through artifacts, multimedia displays, and preserved rooms that tell deeply moving stories. Plan at least two hours here to fully absorb the history and significance of the site.
Memphis also offers downtown trolley and bus options through MATA, though service has changed recently, so check current routes before your trip. The riverfront area, Beale Street, and the museum district all sit close enough for comfortable walking. Grab lunch at a classic Memphis barbecue spot like Central BBQ, and spend the afternoon exploring music history at places like the Blues Hall of Fame.
9. Memphis Riverfront
Memphis’s riverfront has transformed into one of the city’s best outdoor spaces, anchored by the Big River Crossing pedestrian bridge that spans the mighty Mississippi River. Walking or biking across this bridge gives you sweeping views of the river, barges floating by, and the Memphis skyline behind you. The crossing connects Tennessee to Arkansas, making it a unique two-state experience without needing a car.
Tom Lee Park stretches along the riverfront with green space, walking paths, and spots to sit and watch the river roll past. The park hosts festivals and events throughout the year, but even on quiet days, it’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Nearby, you’ll find riverside restaurants and food trucks serving everything from soul food to tacos, perfect for a casual meal with a view.
Downtown Memphis’s compact layout means you can easily walk from Beale Street to the riverfront in under 15 minutes. Combine river views with downtown exploration for a full day that mixes nature, history, and urban energy.
10. Nashville Without a Car Day
Nashville’s downtown and surrounding neighborhoods pack so much into a walkable area that you can easily fill a day without ever sitting in a car. Broadway’s honky-tonks blare live music from morning until late night, while the Country Music Hall of Fame preserves decades of musical history in its massive collection. The Frist Art Museum offers world-class rotating exhibits in a stunning Art Deco building, and admission is free on certain days.
Beyond Broadway, the Gulch neighborhood features trendy restaurants, rooftop bars, and Instagram-worthy murals like the famous Wings mural. Bicentennial Mall State Park provides green space and monuments celebrating Tennessee’s history, and Germantown’s tree-lined streets offer boutique shopping and upscale dining in a quieter setting. WeGo buses, rideshare, and rental scooters connect these neighborhoods affordably and efficiently.
Food options span every budget and craving, from hot chicken joints to upscale Southern fusion. Nashville’s walkability improves every year as the city invests in sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure. Start your day with coffee in Germantown, explore downtown museums and music venues midday, then end with dinner in the Gulch.
11. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Chattanooga
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum turns transportation into the attraction itself, offering scenic train rides through the Chattanooga area and nearby Delano. Vintage locomotives and restored passenger cars take you on journeys ranging from short excursions to longer trips through tunnels, over trestles, and past landscapes that showcase the region’s natural beauty. The experience feels like stepping back into the golden age of rail travel.
Departures from the Chattanooga station make the museum accessible via rideshare or public transit from downtown. Once you arrive, the museum grounds include historic train equipment, exhibits on railroad history, and a gift shop packed with train-themed memorabilia. The staff’s passion for preservation and history shines through in every tour and conversation, adding depth to the experience.
Different train rides operate seasonally, so check the schedule before planning your visit. The Missionary Ridge Local offers a shorter option perfect for families, while the Summerville Steam Special provides a longer journey through rural Tennessee. Since the train rides themselves are the main event, you’re experiencing car-free travel in its most nostalgic form.
Pack snacks, bring a camera, and prepare for a day that celebrates Tennessee’s railroad heritage while proving you don’t need a car to explore.
12. Franklin Main Street
Franklin’s Main Street district charms visitors with its beautifully preserved historic buildings, locally owned boutiques, and a walkable layout that makes car-free exploration a joy. While getting to Franklin from Nashville requires a rideshare or shuttle, once you arrive downtown, everything sits within easy walking distance. The compact grid of streets means you won’t waste time navigating or backtracking—just wander and discover.
Shops along Main Street range from antique stores to modern boutiques, offering everything from vintage finds to handmade jewelry. Restaurants serve Southern comfort food, farm-to-table cuisine, and international flavors, with many featuring outdoor seating perfect for people-watching. Franklin’s Civil War history adds another layer, with historic sites like the Carter House and Carnton Plantation within reach for history buffs.
The town square atmosphere encourages slow exploration, where you can duck into a bookstore, grab coffee at a local roaster, or browse art galleries without feeling rushed. Seasonal events and farmers markets add to the community vibe.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring a tote for shopping finds, and embrace the slower pace that makes this historic town special.
13. Gatlinburg Parkway
Gatlinburg’s main parkway stretches through town with attractions, restaurants, and shops lining both sides, creating a tourist-friendly environment where walking is often easier than driving. Once you arrive in town via shuttle or rideshare, the compact downtown puts everything within reach on foot. The Smoky Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to every stroll, reminding you why millions visit this gateway town each year.
Attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, mini-golf courses, and arcades cluster along the parkway, giving families plenty of entertainment options without needing to drive between stops. Local trolley services connect different parts of town and nearby areas, though many visitors find walking more convenient given traffic congestion during peak seasons. Candy stores, fudge shops, and pancake houses tempt you at every corner.
Gatlinburg’s pedestrian-friendly infrastructure includes sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian bridges over the river that runs through town. You can walk to the Space Needle, browse mountain craft shops, or ride the SkyLift for aerial views—all without returning to a parked car. The town’s tourist-focused layout actually makes it ideal for car-free exploration once you’re there.
Just be prepared for crowds during peak seasons and plan your lodging strategically if staying overnight.
14. Pigeon Forge Parkway
Pigeon Forge’s famous parkway runs for miles through town, packed with dinner shows, shopping outlets, and attractions that make it a car-light destination once you’ve arrived. While the town sprawls more than Gatlinburg, trolley services and rideshare options help you move between zones without needing your own vehicle. The Dollywood area anchors the southern end, while outlet malls and entertainment venues fill the northern stretches.
Dinner shows like the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud or Dolly Parton’s Stampede offer all-in-one entertainment and dining experiences, meaning you can spend an entire evening in one location. Shopping at Tanger Outlets or the Island complex gives you multiple stores and restaurants clustered together, reducing the need to hop in a car repeatedly. The Island even features a Ferris wheel and fountain show, creating a mini-destination within the larger Pigeon Forge area.
Trolley routes connect major attractions along the parkway, though schedules and routes vary by season, so check current service before relying on it completely. Walking between nearby attractions is possible but less practical than in Gatlinburg due to longer distances. Still, strategic planning lets you enjoy Pigeon Forge’s unique blend of mountain kitsch and family fun without the stress of driving through bumper-to-bumper traffic during peak times.
15. Jonesborough Historic District
Jonesborough holds the title of Tennessee’s oldest town, and its compact historic district preserves that heritage with beautifully maintained 18th and 19th-century buildings. The downtown area spans just a few blocks, making it perfectly suited for car-free exploration once you arrive. Brick sidewalks, historic markers, and locally owned shops create an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time without the theme park artificiality.
Known as the storytelling capital of the world, Jonesborough hosts the National Storytelling Festival each fall, drawing thousands of visitors to this tiny town. Even outside festival season, the storytelling theme appears in murals, shop names, and community events that celebrate oral tradition. Antique stores, craft shops, and cozy cafes line Main Street, inviting leisurely browsing and conversation with friendly shopkeepers.
Historic sites like the Chester Inn and the Jonesborough History Museum offer glimpses into frontier Tennessee life, while the town’s walkable layout makes self-guided exploration effortless. You can see the entire historic district in a few hours or stretch your visit into a full day with lunch and shopping.