Near Nashville, Miles from Ordinary: Exploring Wilson County, Tennessee

© Courtesy of Wilson County

Near Nashville, Miles from Ordinary: Exploring Wilson County, Tennessee

Wilson County, Tennessee, is a trifecta of family fun—not only is it comprised of Lebanon, Mt. Juliet, and Watertown, but it’s also filled with small-town charm, rich history, and thrilling entertainment. If you’re looking for the best of southern hospitality, Wilson County is the place to be.

NASHVILLE SUPERSPEEDWAY

If the roar of engines and the thrill of speed are calling your name, don’t miss a visit to the Nashville Superspeedway.

Located in Lebanon, the Nashville Superspeedway is a state-of-the-art racing facility that offers NASCAR events for fans of all ages, hosting over 260,000 visitors annually. Its biggest events include the adrenaline-filled NASCAR Ally 400 Race Weekend from June 28th to 30th. This year, for the first time ever, the Nashville Superspeedway is also hosting The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix on September 13th to 15th!

A CENTURY-OLD TRADITION OF FUN

Every August, the Wilson County Fair/ Tennessee State Fair in Lebanon brings together communities near and far for fun-filled days of excitement and entertainment. A beloved tradition dating back over a century, the fair showcases the vibrant culture and traditions of Tennessee. From thrilling rides and games to live music performances and delicious fair food, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can experience the warmth of Southern hospitality while creating lasting memories with family and friends at this iconic Tennessee event. Come see us at the fair from August 15th to 24th, 2024!

HISTORY COMES ALIVE

Over the years, this region has seen many famous faces and has been the backdrop for countless history-making moments. As a result, there are several captivating historical sites for visitors to explore—like The Fiddlers Grove Historic Village. With its collection of authentically restored pioneer buildings and exhibits showcasing rural Tennessee life, the Village offers a glimpse into the past. Over at Historic Lebanon Square, you’ll find beautifully preserved architecture that has since become a charming shopping experience, including mouthwatering restaurants and boutiques.

But for those who prefer their history to be a touch more modern, there are plenty of fun facts and pop culture secrets to be found. Mt. Juliet has an entire park dedicated to Charlie Daniel from the famous Charlie Daniels Band, who was born and raised there. Over in Lebanon, you can visit the first-ever Cracker Barrel! And for the pop culture fans, challenge yourself to a 2000s-musicvideo scavenger hunt—Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, Miranda Lambert, Darius Rucker, Keith Urban, Kid Rock, and more have used Wilson County as the setting for music videos.

Get Outdoors

One of the best ways to experience this region of Tennessee is by getting outdoors and exploring its natural playgrounds! Two state parks—Long Hunter State Park and Cedars of Lebanon State Park—call this region home, offering visitors breathtaking natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities.

At Long Hunter, outdoor enthusiasts can explore over 20 miles of hiking trails, enjoy fishing and boating on Percy Priest Lake, and immerse themselves in the area’s rich history. Meanwhile, Cedars of Lebanon State Park is filled with stunning cedar glades, tranquil hiking trails, and picturesque picnic spots—a serene escape into nature. Cedars of Lebanon also offers tent, RV and cabin rentals on-site, so you can spend the night under the stars. Both parks offer a chance to experience the beauty of Tennessee year-round, creating unforgettable memories for adventurers of all ages.

A visit to the county is a win-win-win—three small towns with countless opportunities for adventure, culture, and nonstop family fun.

Go to visitwilco.com to plan your trip, or call 615-547-6438 to learn more.