Field Notes: Give the Gift of Tennessee

Looking for a unique gift this holiday season? Whether it's to yourself or a loved one, give the gift of experience this year- give the gift of Tennessee! These small town getaways are Santa-Approved 😉

Natchez Valley

Three towns make up the Natchez Valley, each with its own particular charm! Stop in Waynesboro for a down-home bite at Emerald’s Restaurant, take the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway to Collinwood and enjoy coffee and dessert at The Dragonfly, and make your way to Clifton for breathtaking views of the mighty Tennessee River. Perfect for a day trip, the Natchez Valley is full of nature, small town charm, and hidden gems!

Linden & Lobelville in Perry County

Picture this: two charming small towns, both with the beautiful Buffalo River running right through them! Linden and Lobelville are the perfect pair of destinations for lovers of nature and historic sites! In Linden, a night at the historic Commodore Hotel and a guided kayaking tour is a necessity. Make your way over to Lobelville for a cozy coffee at Bold Wind Coffee Bar and book a stay at the Buffalo River Resort!

Tims Ford Lake & Nearby Winchester

A state park, a lake, stunning lodging options, and proximity to gorgeous downtowns all await you with a day trip to Tims Ford! The lake is stunning even in the cooler weather, and many hiking trails at Tims Ford State Park offer spectacular views of it. For the night, book a waterfront cottage at Twin Creeks Marina. Feel like exploring more? Head into downtown Winchester for shopping destinations and a caffeine boost from Walnut Hill Coffee Co!

Amish Country

Step into a slower pace of life in Tennessee’s Amish Country. Stroll through farm stands and markets for famously delicious butter, jams, and canned goods, or hop on a buggy tour with a local guide to see more of the land. Don’t forget to visit the Amish Museum & Welcome Center to learn all about the settlement! 

Nashville’s Big Backyard

A string of enchanting towns joined together by the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, Nashville's Big Backyard stretches from Nashville all the way down to The Shoals in Alabama. Spend time in lesser-known small towns and find true hidden gems, like Fisher's Off Road Tours in Williamsport, Tennessee, or the Elephant Discovery Center in Hohenwald.

Pulaski & Lynnville

Set out for a pair of towns that make for the perfect weekend or day trip! In Pulaski, you can't miss a stroll around downtown and a photo op in front of the beautiful historic courthouse. In Lynnville, shop exquisitely crafted leather goods at Col. Littleton. Finish the day with the ultimate comfort food: a warm fried pie topped with a scoop of ice cream from the Lynnville Fried Pie Company.

Downtown Columbia

Explore trendy boutiques, upscale specialty shops, and some of the finest dining options in the region in downtown Columbia! Don't forget to admire the historic courthouse as well. Make a bonus stop at the James K. Polk House just a few blocks away to enjoy rich history and traditional Christmas decorations!

Henry Horton State Park

Alaina Broyles Photography

Even in the chilly weather, Henry Horton State Park is a can't-miss destination. Book a stay in their cozy cabins, enjoy a meal or two at their on-site restaurant, and spend peaceful time in nature with breathtaking views of the Duck River. Don't leave without a walk-through of their visitor's center and a trip to the gift shop for some state park swag!

Bell Buckle & Wartrace

Pair these two small towns together for the ultimate weekend of charming downtown streets, history, shopping, and great eats. In Bell Buckle, start your day at the Coffee Shop & Book Swap before shopping util you drop at Phillips General Store, The Welcome Corner, Livery Stable Antiques, and more. Stop by the famous Bell Buckle Cafe for classic Southern favorites. In Wartrace, grab a slice at The Iron Horse and visit the Wartrace Emporium and the Shoppes at 31 Main for all your unique shopping needs!

Bonnaroo in Manchester

For the music lovers in your life, start planning for the future now. With tickets and lineup soon to drop, the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival returns to Manchester in June 2026 and promises four days full of headlining acts and unforgettable fun!

Fayetteville

Fayetteville promises a magical weekend trip with a charming downtown and beautiful outdoor spaces. Spend hours in Sissy's Antiques or the Fayetteville Antique Mall uncovering treasure, then break for lunch at the brand-new Revolutionary Tavern. Spend the afternoon with a brisk walk in Stone Bridge Memorial Park or Wells Hill Park and cap it all off with a homemade scoop (or two) of seasonal ice cream flavors from Pythian Parlor!

Tennessee Whiskey Country

Whiskey enthusiasts need to check a visit to Tennessee Whiskey Country off their travel bucket lists! Start in Lynchburg with a tour of the iconic Jack Daniel Distillery and a visit to the Tennessee Whiskey Trailhead for a Whiskey Trail passport & a bonus poker chip. Then head to Cascade Hollow Distilling Company in Tullahoma and enjoy the beautiful setting in which George Dickel whiskey is distilled. Finish the trifecta in Shelbyville with a tour of Nearest Green Distillery and a dinner at Glass Hollow Table & Tavern!