Featured Places and Activities

Nashville, Tennessee Ben Finch Nashville, Tennessee Ben Finch

Skip the Neon: A First-Timer’s Guide to the Real Downtown Nashville

Downtown Nashville is a neighborhood of storytellers, legendary songwriters, and incredibly deep, sometimes gritty, history. But to truly understand it, you need to step off the beaten path—even when you are standing right in the middle of the city. Here is your local guide to surviving, thriving, and uncovering the hidden gems of downtown Music City without looking like a tourist.

Read More
Nashville, Tennessee Ben Finch Nashville, Tennessee Ben Finch

The Ultimate Nashville Walking Guide: 6 Must-See Sights on Your Own Schedule

The true soul of Nashville cannot be scheduled. It is found in the lingering notes of a street performer's guitar, the slow sip of a local bourbon, and the freedom to wander down a side street just because it looks interesting. To help you build the perfect independent itinerary, here are the top 6 must-see sights in Nashville, starting right in the walkable heart of the city.

Read More
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee Ben Finch Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee Ben Finch

Where to Eat in the Smoky Mountains: A Guide to Authentic Local Dining

At Drives & Detours, we believe that discovering a destination’s culinary soul is just as important as learning its history. That is why we have put together this local guide to the best places to eat and drink in the Smoky Mountains. These are the standout spots—distinctive, highly rated, and full of character—that will make your mountain getaway truly unforgettable.

Read More
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee Ben Finch Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee Ben Finch

Unlocking the Great Smoky Mountains: The Ultimate Guide to the Park’s Top Sights

Exploring the Smokies is about the freedom of the open road. It’s about pulling over when you spot a black bear cub in a meadow, spending an extra twenty minutes admiring a cascading waterfall, and diving deep into the history of the land on your own schedule. Whether you are planning your first trip or your fifth, here are the top five must-see attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains—and how to experience them on your own terms.

Read More
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee Ben Finch Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee Ben Finch

The First-Timer’s Guide to the Smoky Mountains: Dodging Tourist Traps & Finding the Magic

Drives & Detours is here to help you navigate the Smokies like a seasoned pro. Whether you are a solo traveler looking for solitude, a couple seeking a romantic misty overlook, or a family trying to keep the kids entertained without losing your mind, this guide is for you. Here is how to bypass the tourist traps, embrace the wild beauty of Tennessee, and explore the Great Smoky Mountains on your own terms.

Read More