There’s nothing more refreshing than skipping town for a weekend. These ten Louisville weekend getaways are all within 300 miles and five hours of driving time from Louisville – perfect for a short weekend away from home.

1. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Address

Gatlinburg Overlook Parking Area #1, Gatlinburg Bypass, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

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Pigeon Forge is best known as a major shopping destination, and Gatlinburg is known for its breathtaking mountains. However, at close to 300 miles and four and a half hours away, you may want to make this trip over a three-day weekend to avoid fatigue on your return to work. In Gatlinburg, enjoy mountain cabin stays, ski lift rides, and a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium. Pigeon Forge offers delightful shopping experiences at outlet malls and specialty stores, making for an engaging getaway.

2. Cumberland Falls, Kentucky

Address

7351 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701, USA

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Phone: +1 606-528-4121

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At approximately 170 miles and close to three hours away from Louisville, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting over 17 miles of hiking trails and a stunning waterfall. You can hike, fish, raft, swim, and go horseback riding here. The resort provides a perfect retreat after a day of adventure, making the drive well worth it.

3. Nashville, Tennessee

Address

600 Opry Mills Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, USA

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Phone: +1 615-871-6779

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The drive from Louisville to Nashville is convenient, taking I-65 South the entire way. Nashville is approximately 175 miles and three hours from Louisville. Popular attractions include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Grand Ole Opry, the Music Valley Wax Museum, Opry Mills Mall, and Opryland Hotel.

4. Bloomington, Indiana

Address

200 E Winery Rd, Bloomington, IN 47404, USA

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Phone: +1 812-876-5800

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Bloomington is primarily a college town, home to Indiana University, but it offers much more than just sports and social events. At approximately 100 miles and two hours from Louisville, a weekend trip can include visits to the historic IU campus, tastings at Oliver Winery and Butler Winery, shopping for antiques, and exploring the Elizabeth Sage Historic Costume Collection.

5. Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Address

Red River Gorge, Kentucky 40387, USA

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Red River Gorge is a top choice for warm-weather getaways, located just 131 miles and two hours from Louisville. This scenic destination offers over 500 miles of trails through breathtaking sandstone cliffs. Activities available here include hiking, camping, fishing, rock climbing, swimming, and more, making it a beloved spot for weekend adventures during spring and summer.

6. Bowling Green, Kentucky

Address

Bowling Green, KY, USA

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Bowling Green, known for being home to Western Kentucky University, is just over 100 miles and two hours away, presenting several attractions for a weekend retreat. Don’t miss Beech Bend Raceway Park, the Russell Sims Aquatic Center, and Riverview at Hobson Grove during your visit. Conveniently, Cave City and Nashville are also within a short drive.

7. Indianapolis, Indiana

Address

4000 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA

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Phone: +1 317-923-1331

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Though a day trip from Louisville is possible, the depth of attractions in Indianapolis makes it worthwhile to take a weekend. At 107 miles and about two hours away, the city offers attractions like the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and Lucas Oil Stadium.

8. Columbus, Ohio

Address

333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215-2738, USA

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Phone: +1 614-228-2674

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Columbus is an excellent choice for those seeking more than just a brief visit, being approximately 200 miles and just over three hours from Louisville. Make sure to explore top attractions like the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), Longaberger Headquarters, the historical German Village, Ohio Statehouse, Granville, and the Ohio Theater.

9. St. Louis, Missouri

Address

St. Louis, MO 63102, USA

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Phone: +1 877-982-1410

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Located just slightly more than 250 miles and a four-hour drive away, St. Louis is an ideal weekend getaway. Known for the Gateway Arch, the city has much to offer. Visitors can explore the St. Louis Zoo, Busch Stadium, Missouri Botanical Garden, Grant’s Farm, and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. However, be cautious if you’re sensitive to heights, as ascending the Gateway Arch could be a challenging experience.

10. Boonesborough, Kentucky

Address

4375 Boonesboro Rd, Richmond, KY 40475, USA

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Phone: +1 859-527-3131

Fort Boonesborough State Park marks Kentucky’s second settlement and stands as a historical tribute to Daniel Boone. About 100 miles and a two-hour drive from Louisville, the park offers various attractions including realistic cabins, live reenactments, the Kentucky River Museum, and opportunities for camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking. This destination is perfect for families eager to learn about local history.