The Best Weekend Trip From Nashville: Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Need a break from Nashville? Head 90 minutes north on I-65 and you're in a totally different world: the world's longest cave system, an emerald river, and a tiny tourist town built for adventure. Here's the perfect 48-hour itinerary.

Saturday Morning — Drive North on I-65

Leave Nashville by 8am. Take I-65 north through Bowling Green and exit at Cave City (Exit 53). About 90 minutes door-to-door.

Saturday Late Morning — the Mammoth Cave area Tour

Book the Historic Tour in advance. It's 2 hours, 2 miles, and the best intro to the cave system.

Saturday Afternoon — Helicopter Tour Near Mammoth Cave

After lunch in Cave City, head to our helipad for a helicopter tour near Mammoth Cave. The contrast — caves in the morning, treetops in the afternoon — is unbeatable. Tours run $49 to $189.

Saturday Night — Dinner in Cave City or Horse Cave

Stop at the historic Wigwam-era diners or a BBQ joint. Stay overnight at a Cave City hotel or KOA campground.

Sunday Morning — Green River Float Trip

Rent a canoe and float a quiet stretch of the Green River near the Mammoth Cave area.

Sunday Afternoon — Lost River Cave, Bowling Green

On the drive back south, stop in Bowling Green for the underground boat tour at Lost River Cave. You're back in Nashville for dinner.

More From Nashville

See our full guide to helicopter tours near Nashville, or read about 10 things to do near Mammoth Cave.