There’s something about a train ride from Nashville that gets our mind gears working and fills our hearts with nostalgia. It’s the sweetness of the almost forgotten train ride that reminds us of the way things used to be, back when America was pushing towards newness and change. If you’re looking to take a step back in time and take one of the best day trips near Nashville, we have five incredible train trips from the city that are great for all ages. All aboard!

Brent Moore - Flickr
1. The North Pole Express Santa Excursion Train
Tennessee Central Railway Museum, 220 Willow St, Nashville, TN 37210, USA
Tennessee Central Railway Museum/ Facebook
Okay, okay — you're right. The North Pole isn't just a train ride away from Nashville, you'll have to get on a plane to see Santa. It's every holiday season, however, that you have the chance to hop aboard a Nashville-based train for a Polar Express-themed ride. Hot cocoa and Christmas cheer abound, giving children something to remember and look forward to during the sweaty summer months. It's one of the most unique things to do around Nashville. Around Christmas time make sure you head on over to the Tennessee Central Railway Museum website to learn more about the Polar Express.
2. Lebanon
Lebanon, TN, USA
Brent Moore - Flickr
Take a destination excursion, a four-hour round-trip train ride to Lebanon. With 64 miles of track beneath your feet and a whole bunch of history at your fingertips, Lebanon will no longer feel like a simple suburb. This railroad town is a worthy place to explore. Head to the official City of Lebanon website for more information.
3. Monterey
Monterey, TN 38574, USA
Brent Moore - Flickr
Head out to Monterey, the longest excursion trip on the agenda at 216 miles round trip. This ride takes approximately 11 hours from Nashville so you may want to book a hotel room for the night in order to maximize your time in town. Monterey is a wonderful place to take a date and enjoy a step back in time. This lovely town is certainly dreamy and one of the most romantic day trips near Nashville. Visit the Town of Monterey website to learn more.
4. Watertown
cmh2315fl/ Flickr
Everyone loves cute little Watertown, known for its drive-in movie theatre and great pizza and their Jazz Festival stuck hard in the middle of summer. There are multiple murder mystery trains headed out to Watertown this year, making the tiny Tennessee town one of the most popular excursions for families. You'll love exploring Watertown, Tennessee on a day trip.
5. DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards
DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards, 600 Lance Dr, Baxter, TN 38544, USA
Andrew Steele - Flickr
There are quite a few dates on the calendar to make the DelMonaco Winery Trip, a 9.5-hour day trip that includes a solid stop at the gorgeous Tennessee winery. You'll also get to see 168 miles of Tennessee scenery, which we're not even complaining about. DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards is one of the most unique day trips near Nashville.

Have you ever taken one of these train rides from Nashville? Let us know in the comments if you’ve explored the state of Tennessee by train. You can book your tickets now or you can visit this stunning Tennessee waterfall. Your choice.

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More to Explore

Best Day Trips Near Nashville

Melissa M. | June 29, 2022

What are some of the best day trips to take from Nashville?

Some of the best day trips to take from Nashville are:

 

Aside from a day trip by train, which to many is the best type of day trip, there are many other options. You can take a drive to Fall Creek Falls State Park for some gorgeous scenery and a time out in nature. Go hiking, view the falls, and even spend the night camping. It’s a beautiful place to spend some time. Or you can take one of these 12 day trips near Nashville. Have an adventure traveling to places like Rock City, Shiloh National Battlefield, and The Lost Sea.

Are there any exciting road trips I can take near Nashville?

Here are the top road trips you can take near Nashville:

 

If you love pie, you can take our sweet road trip to several pie shops around Nashville. You can also take a family-friendly road trip through the city of Nashville to places like the Nashville Children’s Theatre, Elliston Place Soda Shop, and the Adventure Science Center. And if you love history, trek around town to see six iconic landmarks in Nashville.

What are some of the hidden gems near Nashville?

Here are the hidden gems near Nashville:

 

There are many hidden places around the city, places that are so tucked away that some locals may not even know they exist. The Loading Dock in Nashville is a hidden gem coffee shop that’s worth checking out. This funky place offers an atmosphere like no other cafe in town. If you love nature but not the crowds, check out Bowie Nature Park which is located in Fairview.

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