Eastern Middle Tennessee Shines as a Destination – Part 2: Attractions
In our second blog focused on some of the many ways our region of the great state of Tennessee shines as a go-to place to live, work, visit, play, and thrive, we turn our attention to some of the attractions that Eastern Middle Tennessee has to offer.
(See Part 1: Natural Wonders here.)
We’re sure you are already aware of most, if not all, of these gems, but we hope the quick highlights here might be helpful to share with folks in your network if and when they ask for a quick rundown of what makes our little patch of the Volunteer State such a special place.
(The next installment of this blog series, Part 3, will feature Music & Arts.)
In our area—which we’re defining as in or near Wilson County—some of those attractions include:
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
But of course, this attraction not far west of Wilson County is often visited by school groups and tourists to the area. The Hermitage is a historical plantation (and museum) that was owned by Andrew Jackson, seventh president of the United States, from 1804 until his death in 1845.
James E. Ward Agricultural Center (at the WC Fairgrounds)
This municipally owned, 260-acre property encompasses three flexible-use destinations: the Agricultural Complex, the Wilson County Exposition Center, and Fiddlers Grove Historic Village. Together, these properties host over 1 million visitors each year for outstanding special events.
Lebanon History Museum
Located in the Historic Castle Heights Military Building, this museum chronicles the roots of the City of Lebanon, which was founded on tiny Sinking Springs in 1802. The exhibits cover a wide variety of experiences from the people, places, and things that make Lebanon what it is today.
Nashville Shores
This popular, wet-and-wild resort is a family recreation paradise along the shores of Percy Priest Lake. The property features a first-class waterpark, exciting zip lines and rope courses, lakeside accommodations, and more.
Breeden’s Orchard
This 12-acre working peach and apple orchard is open for the summer. Stop in for fresh produce and baked goods as well as weekend cookouts and Friday-morning Storytime. The orchard’s rotating products allow for an exciting variation every week.
Cedar Creek Sports Center
This well-known Fun Center has been designed with the family in mind. The 16½-acre center has plenty of room for mini-golf, a 1,100-foot-long go-kart track, a driving range, batting cages, and more.
Chad’s Winter Wonderland
This lovely seasonal drive-thru Christmas lighting event is typically open every night from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, weather permitting.
Fite-Fessenden House Museum
(236 Main St., Lebanon, 615-444-2275)
This historic house in Lebanon is now home to the Wilson County Museum. Tours are available by appointment only.
Cellar 53 Winery
This Brush Creek winery features wines produced using mostly Tennessee grown fruit, with the majority being grown on the eight acres of grape and blackberry vineyards. Open Thursday through Sunday, Noon to 6 p.m., and for private events.
A few other websites of interest:
Canoe the Caney (Silver Point)
615 Candle Lab (Mt. Juliet)
TN Vacation guide for Mt. Juliet
TN Vacation guide for Lebanon
And of Course: Rock-Star REALTORS®
You didn’t think we’d leave out our favorite “attractions” this time either, did you? (Hint: you!)
Chartered in 1969, our Association’s 1,300+ REALTORS® are a proud part of the 36,000+ members of Tennessee REALTORS® and of the 1.5 million+ members of NAR, all working to serve the public and protect the rights of America’s property owners. EMTAR members are known not only for their unmatched real estate excellence and high ethical standards, but also for being generous, hospitable, others-focused, loyal, hardworking, and eager to help wherever and whenever help is needed.
In sum, these are only a few of the myriad reasons why we love being part of Eastern Middle Tennessee—and why so many other folks continue to discover all of what makes this such an inviting place to live and visit.
Stay tuned for Part 3: Music & Arts, coming soon!