Driving to Tennessee - anything to do on the way?

[Anonymous]

We have to drive to TN over Memorial Day weekend for a wedding. Me, DH, and 5 yo DD. We'll be heading to Knoxville first for a day, and then to Nashville. We'll drive back to DC from Nashville. What's do to on the way/in and around Knoxville or Nashville that might make this a fun family vacation? Is Dollywood or the splash park near there worthwhile?

[Anonymous]

Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge
Chattanooga has a great aquarium
Nashville Toy Museum
Loveless Cafe(breakfast-yum)
Adventure Science Museum
Nashville Shores
Wave Country

I grew up in west TN. Dollywood would also be good. It is in Pigeon Forge. That is going to be one heck of a drive! Getting through VA seems like forever! Have fun!!!!

[Anonymous]

My godparents live in Knoxville so we did that drive fairly often when I was a kid. I remember we went to Biltmore House in Asheville on the way when I was only a little older than your daughter - I still haven't forgotten it and would love to go back! Very cool place.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thanks for these great ideas! I will look them up and start mapping.

[Anonymous]

Gatlinburg is a fun area - I went there as a child with my family a couple times (pre Dollywood). I think you could find some fun things to do around there!

If you want to stop in Blacksburg, the VA Tech campus is pretty and would be a good place to run around a bit.

[Anonymous]

We did the trip to Knoxville last summer with our two girls. It was long. Look up Natural Bridge--there are a few things around there that might be fun and Roanoke isn't terrible if you need a break. Blacksburg is a good idea but it seemed like too much of a detour for us.

[Anonymous]

You can also check out Opryland in Nashville.