things to do in middle tennessee

Middle Tennessee is a region rich in music, history, and natural beauty. Here are some things to do in the area:

Music and Arts:

1. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (Nashville): A must-visit for country music fans, with interactive exhibits and a vast collection of artifacts.
2. The Ryman Auditorium (Nashville): Known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," this historic venue hosts various performances and concerts.
3. The Bluebird Cafe (Nashville): A legendary songwriting venue that has hosted many famous musicians.
4. Cheekwood Estate and Gardens (Nashville): A historic mansion with a collection of American art and beautiful gardens.
5. First Saturday Art Crawl (Nashville): A monthly event featuring local artists and galleries.

History and Museums:

1. The Hermitage (Old Hickory): A historic plantation and home of President Andrew Jackson.
2. Belle Meade Plantation (Franklin): A historic plantation with a winery and horseback riding.
3. Tennessee State Museum (Nashville): A museum showcasing the state’s history and culture.
4. Lotz House Museum (Franklin): A historic home turned museum that offers tours and reenactments.
5. Historic Carnton Plantation (Franklin): A historic plantation with a museum and walking trails.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Percy Warner Park and Edwin Warner Park (Nashville): Two adjacent parks with hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
2. Radnor Lake State Park (Nashville): A park with hiking trails, birdwatching, and opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
3. Cedarwood State Park (Lancaster): A park with hiking trails, a lake, and picnic areas.
4. Old Hickory Lake (Old Hickory): A lake with boating, fishing, and water sports.
5. Middle Tennessee vineyards and wineries: Explore the region’s wine country, with many vineyards offering tours and tastings.

Family-Friendly:

1. Nashville Zoo (Nashville): A zoo with a variety of animals, a playground, and a splash pad for kids.
2. Adventure Science Center (Nashville): A museum with interactive exhibits focused on science and technology.
3. Dollywood’s Splash Country (Pigeon Forge): A water park with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
4. Lake Winnepesaukah (Chattanooga): An amusement park with roller coasters, a water park, and a playground.
5. Southeastern Fly Tours (Nashville): Take a treetop adventure with a guided zip line tour.

Festivals and Events:

1. Nashville Film Festival (April, Nashville): A festival showcasing new and independent films.
2. Tennessee Renaissance Faire (September-October, Arrington): A themed event with music, food, and performers.
3. Middle Tennessee Blueberry Festival (June, Smith County): A festival celebrating blueberries with music, food, and activities.
4. Wilson County Fair (August, Lebanon): A fair with live music, rides, and a variety of vendors.
5. Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival (June, Manchester): A four-day music festival featuring a wide range of performers.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Middle Tennessee. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore history, enjoy the outdoors, and experience the region’s vibrant music and arts scene.