things to do in cookeville tn
Cookeville, Tennessee, is a charming college town located in the heart of the Cumberland Plateau. Here are some things to do in Cookeville:
- Tennessee Tech University: Visit the beautiful campus of Tennessee Tech University, which features a mix of modern and historic buildings. Take a stroll through the gardens, visit the university’s art gallery, or catch a game at Gentry Center Arena.
- Cookeville Greenway: Explore the 12-mile Cookeville Greenway, a network of trails and parks that offer a peaceful escape from the city. The greenway features walking and biking paths, picnic areas, and scenic views.
- Bennett’s Pit: Visit Bennett’s Pit, a historic site that showcases the region’s coal mining heritage. Take a guided tour and learn about the history of coal mining in the area.
- Cookeville Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday morning, visit the Cookeville Farmers’ Market to sample local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
- Cumberland Mountain State Park: Just outside Cookeville, Cumberland Mountain State Park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Cookeville Museum of Art: The Cookeville Museum of Art features a diverse collection of American art from the 19th century to the present. Admission is free.
- Dunbar Cave State Park: Explore the stunning Dunbar Cave State Park, which features a 65-foot cave, hiking trails, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Cookeville Historic District: Take a self-guided tour of Cookeville’s historic district, which features charming homes, churches, and other historic buildings.
- The Cookeville Opera House: Catch a performance at the historic Cookeville Opera House, which hosts a variety of shows, concerts, and events throughout the year.
- Cookeville’s Downtown Area: Visit Cookeville’s downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Be sure to check out the Cookeville Public Square, which hosts events and festivals throughout the year.
Some popular events in Cookeville include:
- Cookeville BBQ Festival: A annual festival that celebrates the city’s BBQ heritage.
- Cookeville Christmas Parade: A festive parade that takes place in December.
- Tennessee Tech University Homecoming: A celebration of the university’s athletic teams and traditions.
- Cookeville Farmers’ Market Festival: A festival that celebrates the city’s farmers’ market and local produce.
Overall, Cookeville is a charming college town that offers a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and small-town charm.