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 like 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.