Points of Interest between Cape Girardeau, Missouri to Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee

picture of Cape Girardeau, Missouri

A Road Trip from Cape Girardeau to Nashville: Top 5 Must-See Attractions

If you're looking for a road trip that combines history, music, and natural beauty, look no further than the journey from Cape Girardeau, Missouri to Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee. Along the way, you'll discover a world of hidden gems, from charming small towns to breathtaking natural wonders.

The Halfway Point: Eddyville, KY

Nestled halfway between Cape Girardeau and Nashville is Eddyville, KY, a historic town that's definitely worth a stop. Here, you'll find the striking Lyon County Courthouse, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture that dates back to 1884. You can also explore the Kentucky State Penitentiary Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the state's criminal justice system. And if you're a nature lover, be sure to check out the Eddyville Riverwalk Trail, a peaceful pathway along the Cumberland River.

Top 5 Must-See Attractions

  1. Trail of Tears State Park: This historic site commemorates the tragic forced relocation of the Cherokee people in 1838. Today, the park boasts scenic hiking trails, a museum filled with artifacts and exhibits, and a peaceful campground.

  2. Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area: Located on a peninsula between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, this stunning recreation area boasts endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, from fishing and boating to hiking and wildlife viewing.

  3. Muscle Shoals Sound Studio: If you're a music lover, you won't want to miss a visit to this legendary recording studio in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Some of the biggest names in music history have recorded here, including Aretha Franklin, the Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan.

  4. Jack Daniel's Distillery: No trip to Tennessee would be complete without a stop at the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg. Here, you can learn about the history and process of distilling this famous whiskey, and even sample some for yourself (if you're over 21, of course!).

  5. Radnor Lake State Park: End your road trip with a peaceful stroll along the shores of Radnor Lake, a tranquil haven just a few miles from the hustle and bustle of downtown Nashville. Here, you can spot wildlife such as deer, otters, and herons, or simply enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.

The Best Route for Your Trip

While there are many possible routes for this journey, we recommend taking Highway 62 from Cape Girardeau to Eddyville, then heading south on I-24 towards Tennessee. From there, you can take the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway towards Nashville, stopping at points of interest along the way. This route offers stunning views of the countryside and plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and exploration. Happy travels!