Explore 8 Fun Things to Do in Rutherford County, TN

Jeff Adkins

Whether you’re taking a day trip to Murfreesboro or entertaining guests from out of town, there are plenty of fun things to do in Rutherford County that the whole family will enjoy. Here are eight great activities to enjoy in Middle Tennessee:

1. Soak in the Natural Beauty 

Nature enthusiasts will delight in Rutherford County’s outdoor attractions. Barfield Crescent Park, which spans 430 acres, is a haven for sports lovers with its baseball/softball complex, disc golf course and miles of trails. Percy Priest Lake is another scenic stop that is perfect for boaters and campers alike. The lake specifically draws many who love to fish, thanks to the lake’s variety of fish species, including bass and bluegill.

2. Experience Small-town Charm 

Eagleville, a quaint community with just under 1,000 residents, is like the small towns of movies, with its locally owned restaurants and cafes in the center of town. In 2022, country music artist Craig Campbell opened Grindstone Cowboy in Eagleville, creating a place where neighbors and visitors can grab a cup of coffee, order a western-themed entrée and watch talented local artists take the stage. A few doors down, Sorelles Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria is another restaurant favorite that serves all the signature Italian dishes people love, including a full menu of desserts like zeppola, cheesecake and cannoli. 

3. Visit Lucky Ladd Farms 

Discover the joy of agriculture at Lucky Ladd Farms, a seasonal haven for families seeking outdoor fun. With its sprawling petting zoo, wildlife exhibits and a unique playground, the farm invites visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of farm life. From ponies to barrel trains, the variety of rides ensures a delightful experience for kids and adults alike. Be sure to also explore Lucky Ladd’s country store, where shelves are laden with homemade jams, fresh kettle corn and clever farm toys – perfect souvenirs to take home. 

4. Cheer for the Home Team 

Immerse yourself in the spirited atmosphere of Middle Tennessee State University’s home games. Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball or a wide variety of other sports, cheering on the Blue Raiders is a quintessential Rutherford County experience. Join the community in supporting the local team and revel in the camaraderie that fills the air during game seasons. 

5. Discover Historic Landmarks 

Explore the area’s rich history by visiting landmarks such as The Historic Sam Davis Home and Museum, Stones River National Battlefield, Cannonsburgh Village, Oaklands Mansion and the Bradley Academy Museum and Cultural Center. The Sam Davis Home is an immersive experience that transports visitors back to the Civil War, while the Stones River National Battlefield stands as a beautiful memorial to the Battle of Stones River. 

Transport yourself to the 1830s-1930s with a visit to Cannonsburgh Village, a faithful reproduction of Tennessee’s historical life during that 100-year period. These landmarks provide a poignant journey through Tennessee’s past, nurturing a deeper understanding of the region’s historical significance. 

6. Catch a show at The Center for the Arts 

Since its inception in 1994, The Center for the Arts in Murfreesboro has stood as a testament to the vibrant cultural scene in Rutherford County. As a nonprofit community center, it has been a stage for theatrical performances, musical concerts, visual art shows and ballet performances, to name a few. The theater, which can accommodate up to 130 patrons, creates an intimate experience for every visitor. 

7. Tour the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring 

Families with children shouldn’t miss the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring. This multifaceted attraction combines a children’s museum, nature center and wetlands boardwalk, offering themed exploration areas for various interests. From town life and science to trains, cars and a farmers market, the Discovery Center ensures an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.

8. Travel to the Heart of Tennessee 

For a unique experience, head to the Geographic Center of Tennessee obelisk erected in 1978. Savor the significance of standing at its geographical epicenter, where this picturesque landmark sits at the true and literal heart of the state. This makes for an ideal photo opportunity, marking it a memorable stop on your visitor itinerary. 

Looking for a Hotel in Rutherford County?

Want to make it a weekend filled with fun things to do in Rutherford County? One of the first decisions to make is where to stay. Fortunately, the region offers a plethora of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preference and budget. 

From quality hotels and cozy home stays to rustic campsites nestled amid nature’s beauty, there’s something for everyone seeking to explore the captivating heart of Tennessee. 

Hotels are among the most popular overnight choices for guests staying here. Some of the brand-name hotels in Rutherford County include Courtyard by Marriott, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, Hilton Garden Inn, Hyatt Place, Tru by Hilton, and Wingate by Wyndham. Carriage Lane Inn, which hosts weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate functions and other big events, also operates a hotel and has several upscale rooms on-site for those guests who are visiting from out of town. 

Another option for visitors arriving in this beautiful part of Middle Tennessee is lodging at locally owned short-term homestay rentals. Companies like Vrbo and Airbnb feature a range of options, whether you’re looking for a quaint farm stay or a convenient place to crash near Middle Tennessee State University. 

And for those travelers looking for a more outdoorsy experience, Nashville I-24 Campground in Smyrna offers camping lots and cabins along with a swimming pool and recreation room. Poole Knobs Campground in La Vergne provides 88 campsites and an ideal location along the Percy Priest Lake shoreline.