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Whether you're arriving early, staying a few extra days, or looking for an adventure between festival weekends, Nashville's Big Backyard offers unforgettable experiences filled with music history, scenic drives, small-town charm, and authentic Tennessee culture.

One of the best parts of traveling through Tennessee is discovering the small towns that still feel authentic, welcoming, and full of character. Middle Tennessee is packed with communities where historic downtowns, local restaurants, antique shops, and front-porch hospitality are all part of the experience. Whether you’re headed to Bonnaroo or simply exploring the region, these small towns are worth taking the scenic route for.

My secret creek spot! No matter the time of day, it’s the perfect time of day to dunk your toes in the cool water creek just behind Crown Winery, in the heart of Leipers Fork, Tennessee.

Centerville has a way of drawing you in gently—through its historic square, welcoming storefronts, and the kind of charm that reveals itself the longer you stay. This itinerary leans into that rhythm, offering a way to experience the town and its surroundings not as a checklist, but as something a little more personal.

Set your sights a little east and head Up The Mountain. If you've already hit the highlights closer to home, the waterfalls and sandstone cliffs on the South Cumberland Plateau are worth the drive.

There are places that feel curated… and then there are places that just are. Lynnville is the latter. Tiny, quiet, and deeply rooted, it’s the kind of town where craftsmanship still matters, where front porches outnumber stoplights, and where a good find usually comes with a story. This itinerary isn’t about rushing—it’s about slowing down, wandering, and letting the day unfold the way a good antiquing trip should.

Doors are opening on once dormant buildings, live music is playing in the evenings, and shopkeepers are arranging vibrant displays for each season. Under the surface of this transformation is something pretty interesting: Right now, every business on the Wartrace Square is run by women.

Vintage Remnants (aka your antique-loving best friend with a full tank of gas and no self-control in a good shop) Just south of Nashville sits Columbia, Tennessee, “Muletown” if you’re feeling local—and let me tell you, this place is the kind of town that sneaks up on you. One minute you’re planning a casual day of antiquing, and the next you’re mentally rearranging your house to fit a French armoire you absolutely don’t have room for.

Tucked just off the square on Main Street, this shop is full of character, history, and shelves packed with one-of-a-kind pieces that are waiting for a second life.

Discover the story of Rick’s Barbecue, a Tennessee staple that started with a small walk-up window in 1979. Learn how hard work, family, and wood-fired tradition built a lasting BBQ legacy.

Calling all river rats, day-trippers, and folks who just love a good view with their grub! If you haven't dropped anchor at the Clifton Marina Bar and Grill yet, consider this your official invitation to some serious fun.

Overnight Antiquing Trip: Fayetteville, Tennessee. Looking for a small-town getaway packed with vintage finds and antique treasures? Vintage Remnants founder Remy Watters recently spent a night exploring Fayetteville, Tennessee, and discovered that this charming Lincoln County town is full of unique shops, great food, and a cozy place to stay right in the heart of downtown.

If you are looking for a peaceful place to park your RV with instant access to some of Tennessee’s most beautiful landscapes, Natchez RV Park offers a front-row seat to the great outdoors.

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Waynesboro, Tennessee, Little Creek Ranch is a place where the pace slows down, the air feels fresher, and adventure waits just beyond the barn gate.

The Caverns has been named to Billboard’s 2026 Top Music Venues list, earning distinction for what the publication calls “The Wow Factor.”

Many first time visitors step into The Wartrace Emporium expecting a shop, and leave realizing they’ve experienced something much more personal. The magic, my friend, lives in the layers.

Part butcher shop, part country store, and part local showcase, Brick Church is built around one goal: bringing fresh, thoughtfully sourced food directly from the heart of Tennessee's agricultural community.

If you’ve got a few hours to spare and you’re in the mood to wander, Shelbyville makes for a perfect Backroads stop—especially when you build your day around the Historic Square. This is one of those places where you can park once, take your time, and let the day unfold naturally.

Travel+Leisure's Lydia Mansel highlighted the 20 Best Places to Visit in Tennessee for a True Taste of the Volunteer State, and there are several communities in and around South Central Tennessee and Nashville's Big Back Yard highlighted in the piece!

Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. is home to the award-winning George Dickel whisky. This historic spot offers guided tours, tastings, and a deep dive into Tennessee whiskey tradition.