There’s something undeniably charming about seeing Tennessee by train. Instead of white-knuckling the steering wheel on I-40 or circling downtown for parking, you can sit back, relax, and watch the scenery roll by your window.
The WeGo STAR offers a surprisingly affordable way to travel between Nashville and some of Middle Tennessee’s most inviting communities — all in under an hour. From lively city streets to historic town squares, this easy rail ride connects you to places that feel both close and completely different.
A Budget-Friendly Way to Explore Tennessee
If you love the idea of a scenic train ride but don’t want to splurge on a tourist excursion, the WeGo STAR might surprise you. Operated by WeGo Public Transit, this commuter rail line connects downtown Nashville to several communities east of the city, offering a relaxed and affordable way to explore Middle Tennessee.
Unlike long-distance passenger trains, the WeGo STAR is designed primarily for weekday commuters traveling between Nashville and Lebanon. But that doesn’t mean it’s only for work trips. With comfortable seating, large windows, and no need to fight highway traffic on Interstate 40, the ride itself becomes part of the experience.
Ticket prices are budget-friendly compared to gas, parking, and downtown congestion. For locals and visitors alike, it’s a stress-free alternative to driving.
All Aboard at Riverfront Station
Your journey begins at Riverfront Station in downtown Nashville. Located near Broadway and Nissan Stadium, this station places you within walking distance of some of the city’s most popular attractions. You can grab coffee, stroll along the Cumberland River, or explore Lower Broadway before boarding.
Riverfront Station serves as the western anchor of the line. From here, the train heads east, gradually leaving behind the skyscrapers and neon lights for quieter neighborhoods and open stretches of countryside.
Donelson & Hermitage: Suburban Stops with Character
The first stops east of downtown are Donelson Station and Hermitage Station. Both are convenient for riders who want easy access without venturing too far from the city.
Donelson has grown into a lively neighborhood with local restaurants, breweries, and nearby green spaces. It’s also just a short drive from Nashville International Airport. For visitors staying in the area, hopping on the train can be far easier than navigating downtown traffic.
Hermitage Station places you close to one of the region’s most significant historic sites: The Hermitage, home of President Andrew Jackson. While the estate itself requires a short drive from the station, the train provides a convenient starting point for exploring this quieter side of Davidson County.
Mt. Juliet Station: Shopping and Small-Town Vibes
Further east, Mt. Juliet Station offers one of the most versatile stops along the route. Mt. Juliet has grown rapidly in recent years but still maintains a small-town feel.
One of its main draws is Providence Marketplace, a large shopping and dining area featuring national retailers and local eateries. Whether you’re looking for lunch, boutique shopping, or a casual stroll, Mt. Juliet delivers convenience without the intensity of downtown Nashville.
The train ride between Hermitage and Mt. Juliet also becomes more scenic, passing wooded areas and open landscapes. It’s a subtle but noticeable shift from urban to suburban Tennessee.
Martha & Hamilton Springs: Peaceful Escapes
Two of the quieter stops along the line are Martha Station and Hamilton Springs Station. These stations primarily serve residential communities, and they offer a slower, more peaceful atmosphere.
Hamilton Springs is part of a newer planned community development. The station provides easy commuter access but also gives riders a glimpse of how Middle Tennessee continues to grow beyond Nashville’s core.
Martha Station, located in Wilson County, feels even more low-key. Surrounded by open land and fewer commercial developments, it offers a calm pause along the journey.
Lebanon Station: History, Squares, and Southern Hospitality
At the eastern end of the line sits Lebanon Station, the final stop and one of the most rewarding destinations on the route.
Lebanon is home to a picturesque historic downtown square filled with boutiques, antique shops, coffee spots, and locally owned restaurants. The courthouse anchors the square, giving it that classic Southern town-center look that feels timeless.
Cumberland University is also located in Lebanon, adding a lively campus presence to the town. Seasonal events, farmers markets, and festivals often take place around the square, making it an enjoyable destination throughout the year.
Stepping off the train in Lebanon feels like arriving somewhere distinct. The pace slows. People greet each other on sidewalks. You can wander without a strict plan and still stumble upon something memorable.
For many riders, Lebanon is the highlight — a reminder that some of Tennessee’s most charming cities are just a train ride away.
What to Know Before You Ride the WeGo STAR
Before planning your trip, it’s important to know that the WeGo STAR operates primarily on weekdays, with limited service focused on commuter hours. There is currently no regular weekend service, so checking the official WeGo Public Transit schedule ahead of time is essential.
The full route stretches approximately 32 miles between Nashville and Lebanon, and the one-way trip takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on stops.
Tickets can be purchased through WeGo’s official channels, and fares are typically modest compared to gas and downtown parking fees. Because the service is commuter-oriented, the atmosphere is generally calm and orderly. It’s not a themed excursion train — it’s a working rail line — but that authenticity is part of its appeal.
For travelers looking for a scenic, affordable, and underrated way to explore Middle Tennessee, the WeGo STAR delivers something refreshingly simple. It connects city energy with small-town charm, all without the stress of traffic.
Sometimes the journey really is the destination — especially when it rolls through some of Tennessee’s most charming communities.