Weekend Trips From Kingston, Tennessee

Kingston, Tennessee is perfectly positioned for those who love to explore. Situated near the foothills of the Appalachians and less than an hour from Knoxville, Kingston offers not only peaceful lakeside living and small-town charm, but also convenient access to a wide range of weekend destinations. Whether seeking natural beauty, historic experiences, or vibrant city escapes, there are countless options for weekend trips from Kingston, Tennessee that cater to a wide variety of interests. For current residents and those considering a move to the area, having so many top-tier destinations within easy reach only adds to the appeal of Kingston as a home base.

Perhaps the most iconic destination for weekend trips from Kingston, Tennessee is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Just under two hours away by car, this beloved natural retreat spans over 500,000 acres across Tennessee and North Carolina, offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and panoramic scenic drives. From Kingston, it’s an easy and enjoyable drive through Oak Ridge and Maryville before entering the park via Townsend or Gatlinburg. Once inside, visitors can hike popular trails like Laurel Falls or Clingmans Dome or explore more secluded areas like Tremont or Greenbrier.

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, both adjacent to the park, offer entertainment options for families, including attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium, Dollywood, and a growing number of distilleries and craft breweries. For a more peaceful stay, the town of Townsend provides charming cabins, quiet trails, and less crowded access points into the national park. A weekend here allows for both adventure and relaxation, making the Smokies one of the most reliable and rewarding short getaways from Kingston.

Just over three hours from Kingston, Asheville is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and known for its thriving arts scene, culinary excellence, and outdoor adventure. Ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking culture and comfort, Asheville offers an inspiring blend of historic charm and modern creativity. The Biltmore Estate, a French-style château built by George Vanderbilt, is a must-visit and serves as a centerpiece for many first-time visitors.

The River Arts District and downtown Asheville are filled with galleries, craft shops, and local eateries serving Appalachian-inspired cuisine. Asheville also has an impressive concentration of breweries and is often considered the craft beer capital of the Southeast. With the Blue Ridge Parkway winding along its outskirts, Asheville also makes a great starting point for scenic drives and day hikes. For those interested in longer weekend trips from Kingston, Tennessee, Asheville offers a rich, immersive experience that feels far from the ordinary without requiring a flight or long travel day.

Less than two hours from Kingston, Chattanooga is an excellent destination for a family-friendly weekend or a couple’s retreat. Known for its scenic riverfront and walkable downtown, Chattanooga offers a compelling mix of outdoor recreation, history, and modern amenities. Visitors can spend a day exploring the Tennessee Aquarium, taking a cruise on the Southern Belle Riverboat, or strolling across the Walnut Street Bridge—the longest pedestrian bridge in the country.

Chattanooga’s Incline Railway and Lookout Mountain attractions, including Ruby Falls and Rock City, offer both panoramic views and a sense of adventure. The Bluff View Art District and North Shore provide a sophisticated selection of cafes, galleries, and boutiques. With accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to mountain-view cabins, Chattanooga continues to grow as one of the most accessible and enriching weekend trips from Kingston, Tennessee.

For those seeking a quieter, more upscale weekend experience, Highlands, North Carolina delivers. Located about four hours from Kingston, this mountain town sits at over 4,000 feet in elevation and offers a cooler climate, boutique shopping, and luxury accommodations. Ideal for a romantic escape or a long weekend, Highlands is known for its fine dining, art galleries, and well-maintained hiking trails like Whiteside Mountain and Glen Falls.

The surrounding Nantahala National Forest provides ample opportunities for fly fishing, scenic drives, and nature walks. Many homes in the area are second residences or vacation rentals, contributing to a refined, small-town atmosphere that still feels welcoming and laid-back. Highlands makes an excellent choice for those looking to combine natural beauty with sophisticated leisure.

Approximately a three-hour drive from Kingston, Nashville offers an entirely different weekend experience. Known as Music City, Nashville is a top destination for live music, food, and nightlife. Whether visiting the Grand Ole Opry, catching a show at the Ryman Auditorium, or exploring the honky-tonks along Broadway, there’s no shortage of entertainment.

Beyond music, Nashville is also a destination for food lovers, with standout restaurants offering everything from classic Southern fare to nationally acclaimed fine dining. The Gulch, 12South, and East Nashville neighborhoods offer stylish boutiques, artisan coffee shops, and walkable streets. For residents of Kingston, Nashville is a favorite for special occasions, long weekends, or impromptu getaways—offering big-city energy without the need to travel far.

For a nature-focused trip closer to home, the Cumberland Plateau and Fall Creek Falls State Park are just 90 minutes west of Kingston. Fall Creek Falls is Tennessee’s tallest waterfall, dropping 256 feet into a scenic gorge surrounded by hiking trails, picnic areas, and dramatic overlooks. The state park also offers a newly renovated lodge, modern cabins, and a golf course, making it suitable for both rustic and more comfortable weekend stays.

This region of the state is particularly popular in the fall, when the plateau comes alive with color and cooler temperatures. It’s also a year-round favorite for hiking, photography, and kayaking in nearby parks such as Savage Gulf and Rock Island. For residents looking for low-key weekend trips from Kingston, Tennessee that highlight the state’s natural assets, the Cumberland Plateau offers beauty and accessibility in equal measure.

Though often considered a weekday destination, Knoxville also makes for a fulfilling weekend trip, particularly when paired with seasonal events, concerts, or sporting events. Only 45 minutes from Kingston, Knoxville offers a compact but dynamic downtown filled with historic architecture, rooftop dining, live music venues, and boutique shopping.

Market Square, Gay Street, and the Old City are all walkable areas where visitors can enjoy brunch, visit the Knoxville Museum of Art, or explore the historic Tennessee Theatre. The city’s location along the Tennessee River also supports activities like paddleboarding, biking along the greenways, and riverboat dining. Knoxville’s mix of urban energy and Appalachian charm makes it a convenient and enjoyable short trip for Kingston locals.

One of the most attractive features of living in Kingston is the freedom to explore the surrounding region without sacrificing comfort or convenience. These weekend trips from Kingston, Tennessee offer a wide variety of options—whether the goal is rest and relaxation, cultural enrichment, outdoor adventure, or something in between. From the rolling Smoky Mountains to the creative energy of Asheville or the luxury of Highlands, the area surrounding Kingston supports a lifestyle defined by access and variety.

As the popularity of regional travel continues to grow, more destinations are offering boutique accommodations, curated experiences, and seasonal events tailored to weekend travelers. Residents of Kingston are well-positioned to take advantage of these offerings, adding richness and variety to everyday life.

For those exploring real estate options in East Tennessee, Kingston offers the perfect balance of peaceful living and convenient access to some of the region’s most popular destinations. These weekend trips from Kingston, Tennessee are just one of the many reasons homebuyers are drawn to the area. Contact Kathy May-Martin today to learn more about available properties and discover how life in Kingston can support the lifestyle you’ve been searching for.