Welcome to Tennessee's South Central region! We are excited to see you visit what we believe to be the heart and soul of the American South.
From the hills and hollers of Lynchburg, coated with aroma from the stills making Tennessee Whiskey, to the home of the Tennessee Walking Horse in neighboring Shelbyville, take some time to explore Tennessee Whiskey Country
Find yourself radiating positivity in the fields of the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, or reconnect with family in Bell Buckle or Muletown, TN (Columbia).
Relax on the banks of the Duck, the Elk, or the granddaddy of all, the Tennessee River, or choose "Lake Life" done right on Tims Ford, Normandy or Kentucky lakes.
Our point is simple; from the historic travels of David Crockett to the glistening waters of the Piney and Buffalo rivers, there is something for everyone to experience in Tennessee
And remember, don't just travel Tennessee, Experience Tennessee!
Annual Events
(Scan the QR or Visit
ExperienceTN com/Events to see regional events)
February
Lone Star Rodeo - Shelbyville, TN
March
Mule Day - Columbia, TN
Blooming Arts Festival - Linden, TN
Daffodil Day - Bell Buckle, TN
April
Slawburger Festival - Fayetteville, TN
May
High on the Hog Festival - Winchester, TN
Wartrace Strawberry Festival - Wartrace, TN
June
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival - Manchester, TN
Sun Drop Festival - Pulaski, TN
Wartrace Music Festival -Wartrace, TN
RC Cola Moon Pie Festival - Bell Buckle, TN
Homestead Festival - Columbia, TN
Butterfly 5k Race - Waynesboro, TN
Frontier Days - Lynchburg, TN
July
Blackberry Festival - Lynnville, TN
James D. Vaughan Gospel Quartet Festival - Lawrenceburg, TN
Lions Super Pull of the South - Chapel Hill, TN
August
The Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration - Shelbyville, TN
Crape Myrtle Festival - Ardmore, TN
Here's the Beef Ag Week- Pulaski, TN
September
Middle Tennessee District Fair - Lawrenceburg, TN
41A Music Festival - Tullahoma, TN
October
Webb Craft Fair - Bell Buckle, TN
Jack Daniel's World Championship Invitational BBQ - Lynchburg, TN
The National Banana Pudding Festival - Centerville, TN
Hohenwald Oktober Heritage Festival - Hohenwald, TN
November
Host of Christmas Past - Fayetteville, TN
December
Mule Drop (New Year's Eve)- Columbia, TN
StateParks& NaturalAreas
Bark Camp Barrens WMA - Manchester
Bear Hollow Mountain WMA - Sherwood
Carter Natural Area - Sherwood, TN
David Crockett State Park - Lawrenceburg,
Devil's Backbone SNA - Hohenwald
Duck River Complex SNA - Columbia
Hawkins Cove SNA - Sewanee
Henry Horton State Park - Chapel Hill
John Noel at Bon Aqua SNA - Bon Aqua
Laurel Hill WMA - Lawrenceburg
May Prairie SNA - Manchester
Mingo Swamp WMA - Belvidere
Mousetail Landing State Park - Linden
Natural Bridge SNA- Sewanee
Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park - Manchester
Short Springs SNA - Tullahoma
Stillhouse Hollow Falls SNA - Summertown
Tim's Ford State Park - Winchester
Walls of Jericho SNA - Belvidere
Wells Hill Park - Fayetteville
Photo: Morrison Visuals Henry Horton State Park
Henry Horton State Park
Henry Horton State Park, located near Lewisburg in Chapel Hill, Tennessee, was established in the 1960s on former Governor Henry Horton’s property along the Duck River. Open Thursday through Sunday, the park’s restaurant offers a popular dining spot for visitors. Activities in the park include hiking, swimming, biking, fishing, and a range of sports such as disc golf, baseball, basketball, tennis, and volleyball. The park features an Olympicsized pool and offers river access for swimming, as well as fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, red-eye, and catfish with a valid Tennessee fishing license.
The Duck River Education Room in the visitor center highlights the river's ecosystem through exhibits, large freshwater aquariums, and an interactive map. For those planning overnight stays, the Horton Park Inn offers 65 rooms and four suites, while other options include cabins, campsites, and a large group site. The park also has four hiking trails, from the short Wilhoite Mill Trail (0 7 miles) to the 4 2-mile Duck River Trail. G golf co hing 7,
Photo: Morrison Visuals Duck River in Normandy, TN
Lucky Duck River Rentals
Lucky Duck River Rentals in Normandy, Tennessee, offers scenic and accessible river experiences along the Duck River, catering to a range of adventure levels. This family-owned business provides a variety of kayaking and tubing options, ideal for enjoying the river's calm waters and abundant wildlife. A popular route starts at Normandy Dam and ends at Huffman Bridge, creating a two-hour float over 1.5 miles. This short, tranquil trip is perfect for families and groups, allowing linked tubing for a connected, group-friendly experience.
For those wanting a longer journey, Lucky Duck offers options to extend trips to Dement for a four-hour float or to a private farm off Haley Road, making for a six-hour excursion. The rental services include single and tandem kayaks, canoes, and high-quality tubes, with shuttle services for seamless transport to and from the river.
Visitors who bring their own gear can still utilize Lucky Duck’s shuttle service for a small fee. With its blend of relaxed and extended river trips, Lucky Duck River Rentals provides a hassle-free way to explore Tennessee’s picturesque waterways.
Lucky Duck also offers a "Primitive Camping" experience at Warner's Bridge, where you can unplug and immerse yourself in nature. The campground supports basic yurts and treehouses, providing a rustic yet comfortable outdoor experience. This is combined with a two-day kayaking trip that includes an overnight stay, adding an element of adventure to the camping experience.
The rental services are comprehensive, including single and tandem kayaks and canoes, with shuttle service to ensure easy access to and from the river. For those bringing their own equipment, a shuttle service is available for a nominal fee.
Photo: Adin Parks US Colored Troops Memorial
US Colored Troops
Celebrated in Pulaski
In June 2023, Pulaski, Tennessee, unveiled a powerful new monument, "Resurrection of Valor," to honor the United States Colored Troops who served in the Civil War. This lifesize bronze statue, created by local artist Pamela Keller, features a Black soldier in a moment of reflection, passing wisdom to a young child, symbolizing the sacrifices and enduring legacy of African Americans in American history. Situated at Cave Spring Heritage Plaza, the statue marks Pulaski’s first dedicated tribute to Black historical contributions and is part of a larger plan to recognize influential Black figures, including educators and medical professionals.
The project was initiated by Vivian Sims, Pulaski’s first Black elementary school principal, who personally funded the $82,000 statue. Sims was inspired by the bravery of the U.S. Colored Troops, particularly the 110th and 111th Regiments, organized in Giles County and composed of around 2,400 soldiers, many of whom escaped slavery. These troops defended critical areas during the Civil War, and many settled in Pulaski post-war, becoming leaders in education and religion.
This monument and future projects aim to foster a more inclusive narrative in Pulaski, highlighting the vital role of African Americans in shaping the community’s history and future
Photo: Adin Parks Colonel Littleton’s in Lynnville
Small Town Lynnville
Lynnville, Tennessee, a charming town with a population of around 300, offers an engaging experience for visitors with its blend of history, local craftsmanship, and southern hospitality. Whiskey enthusiasts can visit Big Machine Distillery to learn about the art of distilling and enjoy tastings of expertly crafted spirits. For history buffs, the Lynnville Railroad Museum, located in the heart of the historic downtown, provides a fascinating look at railroad memorabilia and the town’s heritage. The downtown area itself, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserves the town’s rich past and vintage charm.
One of Lynnville’s standout businesses, Colonel Littleton, specializes in high-quality, handcrafted leather goods made with meticulous attention to detail. From leather bags and belts to accessories, each product showcases fine American craftsmanship.
The town's dining scene includes the popular Soda Pop Junction, a 1950s-style diner famed for its “Big Johnny Burger” and live weekend music. Another must-visit is The Lynnville Fried Pie Company, where owners Patty and Chuck Nicks, along with their talented team, serve up delicious, flaky fried pies with homemade fillings in flavors like apple, peach, and chocolate. Friendly staff and quality ingredients make each visit memorable. Lynnville Fried Pie Company continues to innovate while embracing tradition.
Photo: Chasing Yesterdays
TN Whiskey Trailhead Lynchburg
TN Whiskey Trailhead
The Tennessee Whiskey Trailhead, located on the historic Jack Daniel Distillery campus, is the starting point for the renowned Tennessee Whiskey Trail. This over 120-year-old center is a gateway to the rich heritage of Tennessee’s whiskey culture, welcoming over 300,000 guests each year. As the official trailhead, it serves both the region and the state, providing visitors with trained travel advisors ready to guide them on their whiskey journey and beyond.
The Tennessee Whiskey Trail stretches from Memphis to Bristol, including over 30 distilleries where visitors can collect unique stamps and poker chips at each stop. Those who complete visits to 24 distilleries receive a commemorative poker set from the Tennessee Distillers Guild. For convenience, both physical and virtual passports are available for this immersive experience.
The trailhead features exclusive Tennessee Whiskey Trail merchandise, from Dolly Parton pillows and Captain Rodney’s sauces to classic t-shirts and koozies, ensuring travelers can find a unique memento of their journey. Knowledgeable travel advisors are on hand to help plan itineraries, offer recommendations for local attractions, and suggest additional points of interest across the region. The Tennessee Whiskey Trailhead is an essential stop for those seeking an authentic taste of Tennessee’s whiskey legacy.
Photo: Hannah Helton Beans Creek Winery, Manchester
20 Year of Beans Creek Winery
Beans Creek Winery in Manchester, Tennessee, founded by Tom Brown in 2004, is a familyowned winery producing award-winning wines from local grapes. Brown’s passion for winemaking began in 1976 when he made his first batch from grapes grown in his mother’s backyard, a hobby that grew into a successful venture with the support of nine local families. The winery’s name honors Beans Creek, the last place where Tom made his wine before expanding to a commercial scale.
After Tom’s passing in 2016, the Brown family continued his legacy. His wife Becky, children, and extended family all contribute to the winery, reflecting its deeply rooted family values. Tom’s son Josh, a former firefighter and Jack Daniel’s tour guide, took over as winemaker in 2013 and as manager in 2015 His dedication to using Tennessee-grown grapes mirrors his father’s passion, and his favorites include Traminette and Apropos, a port-style wine.
Today, Beans Creek Winery is a community cornerstone in southern middle Tennessee, proudly offering a wide range of wines enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. It stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of family and friends, making Beans Creek an enduring part of Tennessee’s wine heritage.
Photo: Ryan French TN Music Pathways, Lawrenceburg
The music Legacy of James D. Vaughan
James D. Vaughan, a key pioneer of Southern gospel music, significantly shaped the genre through his hymns, music publishing, and innovative promotion. Born in 1864 near Pulaski, Tennessee, Vaughan began composing hymns in the 1890s, inspired by his experience teaching and participating in singing schools. He published his first hymnal, Gospel Chimes, in 1900, merging shape-note techniques with popular congregational music. By moving to Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, in 1902, Vaughan expanded his reach, distributing hymnals nationwide and forming gospel quartets to promote his music.
In 1909, Vaughan created his first quartet to popularize his hymnals, which became a staple format in Southern gospel. His influence grew with the Vaughan School of Music (1911) and The Family Visitor magazine (1912), which provided wholesome family content. Vaughan’s entrepreneurial impact extended further when he founded Tennessee’s first record company, the Vaughan Phonograph Company, in 1921, releasing the earliest Southern gospel quartet recordings.
Recognizing radio’s potential, Vaughan cofounded WOAN, one of Tennessee’s first radio stations, in 1922. After his death in 1941, his legacy continued, with the Blackwood Brothers acquiring his music company in 1964. Vaughan’s contributions laid the foundation for Southern gospel’s growth and enduring appeal.
Bad idea Brewing
Bad Idea Brewing, launched in 2015 from a casual conversation, transformed a humorous remark about a “bad idea” into a creative brand in Columbia, Tennessee. Officially opening on September 7, 2019, the brewery became the first of its kind in the area, establishing a reputation for its inventive, rotating craft beers. Now located at 510 N. Garden Street, Bad Idea Brewing has joined forces with Ollie & Finn’s sandwich counter, forming a vibrant culinary space in Columbia’s Arts District.
With no flagship beers, investors, or board of directors, Bad Idea Brewing embraces full creative freedom, following their tagline, #CraftedInColumbia. This allows Owner and Head Brewer Zac Fox to experiment freely, bringing bold, unexpected flavors to southern middle Tennessee.
The partnership with Ollie & Finn’s enhances the brewery experience by offering visitors the perfect food pairing for their unique brews. Cofounder Anna Eilerman explains that the location’s visibility off Columbia’s main highway has been instrumental in attracting both longtime patrons and new faces. Together, the two businesses provide a lively spot for locals and tourists alike, blending the best of Columbia’s craft beer and food in one convenient, welcoming destination.
Photo: Odinn Media Jackson Falls, Hickman County
the Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee
The Natchez Trace Parkway, a historic route stretching 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, traverses South Central Tennessee with scenic landscapes and cultural landmarks. Passing through Wayne, Lewis, and Hickman counties, it offers travelers an immersive journey filled with history and natural beauty.
In Wayne County, visitors can begin at the Collinwood Visitor Center, which offers insights into the Natchez Trace’s rich history and local attractions.
Lewis County features notable sites such as the Meriwether Lewis Monument at Milepost 385.9, honoring the famed explorer who passed away here in 1809. The area also boasts Metal Ford on the Buffalo River, marked by iron ore, and Fall Hollow Waterfall in Hohenwald, with trails and a viewing platform for a closer look at its cascading waters.
Hickman County highlights include Jackson Falls, accessible by a steep trail for an adventurous experience, and the Baker Bluff Overlook, providing panoramic countryside views. The nearby Gordon House and Ferry Site along the Duck River reveal the challenges faced by early travelers.
Whether for history, nature, or peaceful reflection, the Natchez Trace Parkway through these Tennessee counties promises a memorable journey through one of America’s cherished pathways.
Photo: Hannah Helton Oldham Theatre, Winchester
downtown Tennessee: Winchester
Downtown Winchester, Tennessee, offers visitors a delightful blend of history, shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. The area is anchored by the historic Franklin County Courthouse in the town square, a classic architectural gem often hosting community events. History buffs will enjoy the Old Jail Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Franklin County’s past with unique artifacts and exhibits.
For dining, Winchester’s downtown is home to standout options. Filo's Tavern serves a locally sourced, made-from-scratch menu in an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, providing a memorable dining experience with Southern flair. Walnut Hill Coffee Co. offers expertly brewed coffee and fresh pastries in a cozy, welcoming setting, perfect for casual gatherings or a quiet break.
Shopping in Winchester brings visitors to unique boutiques like About Town Apparel and Meshed, where they’ll find everything from antiques to handcrafted goods, making it easy to take home a special souvenir or gift.
Just a short drive from downtown, Tims Ford State Park provides outdoor recreation with hiking, fishing, boating, and golf, making it a perfect day-trip destination. With rich history, engaging shops, delicious dining, and nearby outdoor activities, Winchester’s downtown promises a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for everyone.
ROADTRIPS PILGRIMAGES
Photo: Dominic Gialdini
Shopping Sign in Amish Country
Tennessee Amish Country: Ethridge
Ethridge, Tennessee, in Lawrence County, is home to one of the largest Amish communities in the South, with over 250 families preserving the Swartzentruber Amish way of life. This community offers visitors a peaceful glimpse into traditional Amish culture, where values of family, faith, and simplicity guide daily living. Amish homes are notably plain, and residents sustain themselves with time-honored farming practices, forgoing electricity and modern conveniences.
Visitors can explore local Amish markets marked by hand-painted signs, each offering unique, handcrafted goods—from fresh produce and canned items to baked treats, quilts, and woodwork. Maps from the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce and Amish Welcome Center make it easy to locate these markets.
A highlight for guests is the Amish wagon tour, where guides share insights into Amish history and traditions. The Plowboy Produce Auction, held April through October, also allows visitors to bid on local produce. Respect for the Amish way of life is encouraged, including avoiding photography. Ethridge provides a meaningful experience into a life of simplicity and tradition.
The Duck River
Photo: Morrison VIsuals
Sliding at Lyon Family Farm
Tennessee’s Farms
fayetteville
In Fayetteville, Tennessee, Pilaroc Farms, Buckley Farm, and Lyon Family Farm each bring unique qualities to the local agricultural scene. Pilaroc Farms champions sustainable farming through its "Rock to Table" initiative, raising Black Angus cattle, heritage pigs, and poultry on non-GMO feed without antibiotics. Their products, featured in local restaurants, highlight ethical practices and environmental care.
Buckley Farm offers grass-fed beef, pastureraised pork, free-range chickens, and seasonal produce, ensuring fresh, high-quality food through their direct-to-consumer approach. The farm’s selection also includes honey and artisanal goods like jams and bread, available at their farm and farmers’ markets.
Lyon Family Farm combines agriculture with tourism through its annual Fall Festival, drawing visitors from across Tennessee and Alabama. Starting as a pumpkin patch, it has grown into a popular seasonal attraction featuring various family-friendly activities.
These three farms reflect Fayetteville’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and community, providing locals and visitors alike with fresh, locally-sourced products and engaging experiences.
Photo: TN’s South Cumberland Biking the Mountain Goat Trail
The mountain Goat Trail in Tn’s South Cumberland
The Mountain Goat Trail in Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau offers a scenic and historical outdoor experience, transforming a former railway into a multi-use trail connecting communities across the region. Originally the Mountain Goat Railroad in the late 1800s, the trail has been revitalized by the Mountain Goat Trail Alliance, providing safe, picturesque paths for walking, biking, and running.
Currently, paved sections in Monteagle, Sewanee, and Tracy City allow visitors to enjoy natural beauty, with Sewanee’s Gothic architecture, Monteagle’s local eateries, and Tracy City’s historic Grundy Lakes as key highlights. The trail is eventually planned to stretch 35 miles, linking seven towns.
More than a recreational route, the Mountain Goat Trail boosts local businesses, attracts tourism, and supports conservation by offering an eco-friendly travel option. Community events, organized by the Trail Alliance, bring locals and visitors together through runs, rides, and educational programs that promote wellness and community engagement. This vibrant trail invites everyone to explore Tennessee’s stunning plateau and connect with its rich history.
Glass Hollow Table & Tavern
South Central’s Newest Premier Dining Destination
In the heart of Shelbyville’s revitalized downtown and along the celebrated Tennessee Whiskey Trail, Glass Hollow Table & Tavern brings a new level of culinary excellence to town.
Owned by Jeb House and his mother, Chavigny Beasley, this destination steakhouse combines Southern hospitality with a sophisticated farm-totable dining experience.
The menu focuses on high-quality, classic steakhouse fare with a seasonal twist, featuring core items enhanced by rotating dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Housed in the historic Knox Pitts Hardware building at 123 S. Side Square, Glass Hollow promises more than just a meal — it’s an experience. Guests will enjoy upstairs and downstairs dining, with full-service bars in each area.
For private events, the restaurant offers a spacious dining room seating up to 60 guests both upstairs and downstairs.
Notably, Glass Hollow also provides a unique lodging option with four short-term rentals available for visitors, a perfect stop for those exploring the “Whiskey Triangle” between Jack Daniel’s, Cascade Hollow/George Dickel, and Nearest Green distilleries.
