Attractions and Places To See in Rutherford County - Top 10

Rutherford County is rich in Civil War history. You can explore the Stones River National Battlefield, the site of one of the war's bloodiest battles, which includes a museum, film presentation, and trails. Within the battlefield, you'll also find the Hazen Brigade Monument, the oldest intact Civil War monument still standing in its original battlefield location. Other significant sites include Oaklands Mansion, which played a role in the war, and Fortress Rosecrans, built by the Union Army.

You can step back in time at Cannonsburgh Village, a reconstructed Southern village showcasing rural Tennessee life from the 1830s to the 1930s, complete with a gristmill, schoolhouse, and blacksmith's shop. The Historic Sam Davis Home & Plantation offers a glimpse into 19th-century farm life. Additionally, the Rutherford County Courthouse in Murfreesboro, a Classical Revival building from 1859, served as Tennessee's state capitol for a period.

Rutherford County offers diverse natural settings for outdoor activities. J. Percy Priest Lake is ideal for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, surrounded by woodlands and rolling hills. You can also visit Sharp Springs Park, which features paved and gravel trails, wetlands, and ponds, or explore the trails at Barfield Crescent Park.

Yes, several trails offer unique experiences. The Stones River Battlefield Loop Trail provides an immersive walk through historic grounds with scenic river views. For a unique ecological experience, Flat Rock Cedar Glades State Natural Area features well-maintained trails through a rare Cedar Barrens ecosystem. You can also find easy hikes and running trails in the area, such as those mentioned in the Easy hikes in Rutherford County guide.

J. Percy Priest Lake, spanning over 14,000 acres, is excellent for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Its clear waters are surrounded by woodlands and rolling hills, offering scenic spots for relaxation. Long Hunter State Park, partially located in Rutherford County, also provides extensive shoreline access for boating and fishing on the lake.

Absolutely. The Flat Rock Cedar Glades State Natural Area is a unique 846-acre preserve known for its rare Cedar Barrens ecosystem, home to federal and state-listed plant species. Other notable natural areas protecting unique ecosystems include Elsie Quarterman Cedar Glade and Fate Sanders Barrens.

For family fun, Lucky Ladd Farms in Eagleville is an award-winning agricultural park with a petting zoo, pony rides, corn mazes, and seasonal events. Many parks like Barfield Crescent Park and Sharp Springs Park offer playgrounds and nature education programs. The Stones River Battlefield Loop Trail is also considered family-friendly.

Many outdoor areas in Rutherford County welcome dogs. Highlights like J. Percy Priest Lake, Long Hunter State Park, Barfield Crescent Park, and Sharp Springs Park are noted as dog-friendly, often featuring trails where leashed dogs are permitted.

The Bradley Academy Museum & Cultural Center is a restored National Register building that educates visitors on the United States Colored Troops and African-American education. The Heritage Center of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County offers interactive exhibits on the county's history, particularly the Civil War era. You can also explore Murfreesboro's historic downtown square with its unique shops and restaurants, and even visit the Watlau Buddhist Temple for a unique cultural experience.

Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to visit Rutherford County. In spring, you can see a variety of wildflowers in bloom, especially in natural areas like Flat Rock Cedar Glades State Natural Area. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, ideal for exploring historical sites and outdoor trails.

While many attractions are well-known, exploring the various cedar glades beyond Flat Rock, such as Elsie Quarterman Cedar Glade or Fate Sanders Barrens, can offer a quieter, unique natural experience. For a cultural 'hidden gem,' the Watlau Buddhist Temple provides an unexpected and intricate architectural experience.

Rutherford County offers a variety of routes for different outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find easy hikes like the Jones Mill White Loop. Runners can explore options from the Running Trails in Rutherford County guide, including the Murfreesboro Greenway. Cyclists have several road cycling routes, such as the Murfreesboro Greenway, which also offers longer loops.

Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of history and nature. The immersive experience of the Civil War battlefields, with their well-maintained paths and scenic views, is highly rated. The tranquility and unique ecosystems of natural areas like the Cedar Barrens are also a highlight, offering relaxing walks and opportunities to see diverse wildflowers. Many also enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere and the variety of outdoor activities available.