Just 80 miles east of Nashville, Cookeville is its own destination brimming with history, nature and adventure. While Burgess Falls and Cummins Falls – state parks with two of Tennessee’s largest waterfalls – are major draws, they’re hardly the only places to get outdoorsy. Bee Rock rewards hikers with panoramic views via a short hike out to a rocky overhang, while Cane Creek Park attracts bikers, disc golfers and fishermen who take advantage of the 56-acre lake.

Anchored by the Cookeville Depot Museum and Tennessee Tech University, the downtown teems with dining options from barbecue at The Blue Pig to Southern fare at Seven Senses Food & Cheer. Tennessee Legend Distillery has an outpost with free tastings, and Red Silo Brewing specializes in sours and also makes its own seltzer and sodas. Looking for a pick-me-up? Poet’s Coffee has been a local institution for 30 years.

While Cookeville has several hotels, it also features bed-and-breakfasts, cabins and unique vacation rentals like treehouses and Airstream trailers. Learn more and plan your trip at visitcookevilletn.com.