Planning a trip to Nashville? Take a few days to explore the outdoor adventures, history and secluded nature stays located near Nashville. These fun (and some free!) activities are just a drive from the city. Choose how you'll spend your days exploring the towns and cities conveniently close to Nashville.
Outdoor Activities near Nashville
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Hike: Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park - Manchester

- Experience rich Native American Woodland culture with a hike through the beautiful Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park, full of outdoor activities close to Nashville in Manchester, Tennessee.
- Witness the sites and traverse the trails where Native Americans resided nearly 2,000 years ago.
- Spend the day exploring, take in the picturesque waterfalls and delve into the remarkable history of this park.
- A small museum and visitor center are open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and restrooms are available onsite.
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AdventureWorks - Kingston Springs

- AdventureWorks in Kingston Springs is the perfect setting.
- Outdoor activities close to Nashville, about 24 miles away from the city.
- Surrounded by the Harpeth River Take the Canopy Zip Tour, Nashville’s original zip line tour that has you flying fast above their 40-acre forest.
- The Haunted Forest Zip Tour features stories of the mysterious Montgomery Bell.
- Zip line at night with the Moonlight Tour.
- Perfect for family outings or a daytrip with friends.
- AdventureWorks is open on weekends and by special request.
History Stops or Downtown Strolls
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Downtown Stroll: Franklin

- Visit Downtown Franklin, about 22 miles south of Nashville, which ranks among the best main squares in the U.S.
- Historic preservation meets contemporary shopping and dining - take in the stunning architecture, and enjoy the vast collection of antique and art galleries, quaint gift stores, boutiques, restaurants, and historical locations.
- Also home to a number of music, food, and holiday festivals held throughout the year, Franklin’s Main Street District is a must-visit.
- Historic sites like the Carter House and Carton in and around the downtown area are must-sees and provide an astonishing glimpse into the expansive Civil War history of Franklin.
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Downtown Stroll: Columbia

- Delicious food, live music, and trendy shopping experiences, downtown Columbia is always sure to please.
- Whether it is enjoying the local breweries and restaurants or walking through the quaint boutiques and shops, downtown Columbia offers fun for the whole family.
- Also be sure to check out the nearby Columbia Arts District where you can share in the abounding local artistic and creative expression.
- Kayak the Duck River, which wraps around the edge of downtown and is home to over 150 species of fish.
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Walk Through History: Cannonsburgh Village - Murfreesboro

- Experience life in Tennessee from the 1830s to the 1930s with a visit to Cannonsburgh Village.
- 8-acre site is home to a large tractor exhibit, gristmill, schoolhouse, caboose, chapel, doctor’s office, general store and a functional blacksmith’s shop.
- You can even see the world’s largest cedar bucket.
- Free to visit.
- Open season is April-November.
- Structures are closed December-March.
- Grounds are open year-round.
Brewery or Distillery
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Brewery: Star Spangled Brewing Company - Clarksville

- Star Spangled Brewing Company is located in Clarksville, Tennessee.
- Veteran-owned brewery.
- A rotating selection of small-batch, high-gravity craft beers.
- “Hop” on over to the tasting room and sample some of their best brews.
- Check out the brewery’s fun outdoor space which is pet-friendly and features picnic tables and yard games.
- Food trucks are available with tasty meals and snacks to compliment your drinks.
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Distillery: Short Mountain Distillery - Woodbury

- Short Mountain Distillery specializes in making organic Tennessee whiskey, bourbon, and various original spirits.
- Nestled on 400 acres of stunning Tennessee farmland.
- See firsthand how the spirits are made on the distillery tour.
- Be led through a spirits tasting after the tour.
- Stop by The Restaurant at Short Mountain Distillery for genuine Southern cuisine accentuated by farm fresh vegetables, herbs and meats.
- Cocktail crafting classes offered throughout the year.
- Mule rides around the property given April-August each year for the perfect, low-key outdoor activity.
Solo Vacation or Celebration
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Solo Vacation: The Treehouse of Center Hill Lake - Smithville

- The Treehouse of Center Hill Lake is perfect for a solo getaway and peaceful mountain vacation.
- Five balconies with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
- Hike down to Center Hill Lake on the private trail, which leads to a cove and a perfect spot to kayak.
- Rentals available through Canoe the Caney
- Gas fire pit.
- All cooking/grill utensils, Keurig coffee maker, paper plates, paper towel and basic toiletries are provided.
- Finish the day relaxing in the hot tub beside the fire pit or cozying up on the large sectional to watch the sunset.
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Solo Vacation: Wildwood Resort - Granville

- The Wildwood Resort and Marina offers a variety of accommodations and adventures for every traveler.
- Located about 65 miles from Nashville.
- Unique places to stay include rustic waterfront cabins, harbor cottage houseboats, vintage Airstream village.
- Book a pontoon or kayak to explore Cordell Hull Lake.
- Partake in the wide variety of water activities.
- Dine at the Lakeside Restaurant and enjoy panoramic views of the lake aside shoreline bonfires and live music
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Celebration: Pins Mechanical Company - Nashville

- Pins Mechanical Company located in the heart of Nashville has extensive collection of vintage arcade, pinball and yard games.
- Duck bowling
- 24 pinball machines in one room.
- Indoor bocce.
- Life-size pong and Jenga.
- Three bars offering a plethora of unique cocktails like the Pinball Wizard or the Game Over, draft beer and wine.
- Food trucks are parked outside to satisfy your appetite.
- A combination of cozy indoor sitting areas and spacious outdoor patios.
- Quick tip: if you are interested in bowling, reserve a lane as soon as you arrive because it's one of the more popular activities.
Barbecue Ribs or Hot Chicken
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Barbecue ribs: Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint - Nolensville

- Middle Tennessee’s most iconic barbecue at Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nolensville.
- This location was the first Martin’s opened in 2006.
- Features their award-winning West Tennessee-style whole-hog barbecue.
- Try some of the local favorites, including the Redneck Tacos or Farmer’s Salad with smoked turkey.
- Served in generous portions and with a number of delicious sides, Martin’s will never disappoint.
- Order Martin’s online for takeout or for delivery through DoorDash and savor the flavor from your own kitchen table.
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Hot Chicken: Prince’s Hot Chicken - Nashville

- Recognized as the original home of Nashville hot chicken, Prince’s Hot Chicken is located downtown.
- Delights heat lovers with chicken rich in flavor.
- With a variety of hot (and mild) menu options to choose from, Prince’s hot chicken is coated in flaming spices sure to kindle your taste buds.
- Prince’s provides some of the best hot chicken in Middle Tennessee.
- Beware though, the “XX-Hot” chicken may cause you to breathe fire.
Honky Tonk Highway or Songwriter’s Paradise
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Honky Tonk Highway: Tootsie’s - Nashville

- Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is known around the world as one of Nashville's oldest and most prominent honky-tonks.
- Tootsie's has hosted thousands of live music concerts since 1960.
- Hosted such artists as Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Faron Young.
- Steeped in history with an unmistakable old-school atmosphere.
- Tootsie’s features three levels, each with live music and a full bar.
- Complimented by tasty food, great drinks, and enduring history, this Nashville icon is a must-visit.
- And be sure to check out the rooftop area for some amazing views of downtown.
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Songwriter's Paradise: Grinder House Coffee Shop - Crossville

- Grinder House Coffee Shop is more than just a coffee house, it is a welcoming and cozy community.
- Enjoy locally sourced coffee drinks, home-style soups and sandwiches, and live music.
- Homey décor, accommodating staff, and plenty of space to sit back and relax.
- Grinder serves breakfast all day in addition to their full lunch and dinner menus, accentuated by delicious made-from-scratch buttermilk biscuits and other delightful treats.
- Declared the best listening room for live singer songwriters in Tennessee.
- Check out their website for a calendar with upcoming live shows.
- Continue planning your vacation by discovering even more things to do in and around Nashville.
Continue planning your vacation by discovering even more things to do in and around Nashville.