Whether you’re entertaining toddlers, teens or grandparents, Rutherford County has everything you need for a memorable family weekend. Explore museums, enjoy outdoor parks, and discover unique attractions and events. With over 475 local restaurants, you’ll find good food and great music around every corner.
Discover Family Adventure
“Start your day at the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring by exploring interactive exhibits perfect for family members of all ages,” says Tara McDougall, president and CEO of the center.
“Step into Tiny Town and discover how people work, live, and play together in a pint-sized community featuring a grocery store, a medical office, a Post Office truck, and a theater. Be sure to check out the new Water Works exhibit on the main floor, a crowd favorite. Afterward, enjoy an outdoor walk along the history wall and a tour of the wetland boardwalk, where you might spot otters and herons. The 22 acres of wetlands are a paradise for nature photographers and birdwatchers.”
The MathRox exhibit, here through September 2, is filled with fascinating puzzles, brain teasers and games to get kids excited about math. This fall, be sure to check out a new exhibit, Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab. Ongoing events and programs provide more focused time for specific topics and for special populations.
The Discovery Center is a big favorite among other locals as well. “There’s all kinds of fun stuff at Discovery Center—for kids who are barely walking up to adults,” says local realtor Jonathan Harmon, who stays busy entertaining four kids, ages 11 to 17. Insurance agent Chase Salas agrees, saying they often head there after checking out the local products at the farmers market. “My kids love to play there and check out the exhibits.”
Check out the Rutherford County Library System for all kinds of events, from family movie nights to chair yoga. “The library system’s Technology Engagement Center is super, super cool and grossly underutilized,” Jonathan says. “They have a free recording studio, hands-on tech lab for kids with virtual reality and minor programming classes.” There’s a retro video arcade and maker space, as well as facilities for meetings, STEAM kits and classes for all ages.
At Historic Oaklands Mansion, explore the mansion, gardens, and grounds through self-guided tours and learn about the Maney family, the enslaved people who lived on the property, and prominent historical figures who visited. You can also take in vintage “base ball” games, performing arts, classes, and festivals held on the grounds at Oaklands.
For active family members, Climb Murfreesboro offers bouldering, climbing, yoga and fitness classes, along with a great kids’ area. There’s something for every age at the Main Event, from immersive virtual reality experiences to escape rooms to climbing ropes. "Do ALL the things at Main Event—bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and dining," says Kristin Jackson, CFO of United Communications.
Where Big Fun Is Brewing
One (possibly surprising) source for family entertainment is the assortment of local breweries in Rutherford County. Jonathan, who is also a co-owner of Cedar Glade Brews, says theirs is a very kid- and dog-friendly place, with something going on almost every night. “Our goal when we opened was not just to be family friendly,” he says, “but that we want your families there.”
Lots of families, including his own, like to hang out in the outdoor space, which has padded turf, cornhole, and space to relax. The events schedule includes “hoppy hours,” Thursday board game meetup nights are great for all ages. “It’s a blast,” Jonathan says. “The core group there for that is very accommodating and loves to teach the games.”
Add in adult kickball league, live music, Brainiac Trivia on Sunday afternoons, car shows, cruise-ins—even guided stretch sessions on Saturday mornings. You can take a potted plant class, create an epoxy cutting board, and—oh, yeah—drink a craft brew of the alcoholic or non-alcoholic kind. “You don’t have to drink; we have different craft beverages and a food truck there. If alcohol is not your thing, we have all kinds of things to enjoy. We don’t just welcome that, we cherish that.”
“We try not to compete with the Friday Night Live concerts that Main Street Murfreesboro has. Other Fridays, we have headliner night, from 7:30 - 10 p.m.,” Jonathan says.
Tricia Pohlman, executive assistant at First Community Mortgage, and her family often visit Cedar Glades, Middle Ground Brewing Company, Panther Creek Brews, and Hop Springs for craft beverages, music, special events or simply playing games while watching sports.
Chill Out—Outside
Tara McDougall’s family like to explore the historic Murfreesboro Square, visit some local shops and stop at the Murfreesboro Saturday Market, a family favorite. You can explore other farmers markets at the Smyrna Depot, and Lane Agri-Park in Murfreesboro. History buffs will appreciate a tour at the Stones River Battlefield, Tara says.
“Go to any of the fun activities at the Fountains, like movies, ice skating, and more,” says Kristin. “And we stop by the Sodabar while we are there to get a treat!” You’ll find a variety of events year-round at The Fountains, as well as shopping and restaurants.
Jonathan is also a big fan of the Greenway trail system, which connects three of the four local breweries. “Within a mile and a half you can bike or walk to three,” he says. There are also dog parks, a new skate park in Old Fort Park. “There’s so much to do on greenways,” he says. “Parks and Rec has done a great job.” He also recommends Boro Beach and Patterson Park.
Because Rutherford County has a variety of great events happening all year round, there’s always a festival or community gathering going on. “We like to take part in community events like Friday Night Live around the Square, Rutherford County Pride, and others,” Tricia says of her family. And don’t forget the variety of things to do that MTSU offers for families, from football to performing arts.
“We enjoy attending MTSU sporting events—usually a couple of football, basketball and baseball games per year. We really enjoy the homecoming parade and tailgating when we can,” Tricia adds.
Fuel for Your Adventures
With more than 475 locally owned restaurants, Rutherford County can fill you up for more adventures. “We love waking up on a Saturday morning and going to grab breakfast somewhere on the square,” Chase says. For dinner, they favor the casual feel and upscale flavor of Primrose Table.
Tara McDougall recommends The Alley on Main, Marina's on the Square, Joanie's, and Brass Horn for coffee. "After lunch, we walk around the historic square, visit shops, and end with a treat from Hattie Jane’s Creamery." In Smyrna, Janarty’s offers homemade ice cream.
Or, “Go off the grid a little and try San Marcos Supermercado on the corner of E, Main and Middle Tennessee, a hole-in-the-wall market that has some of the best tacos I’ve ever had,” Jonathan says.
Other spots that get a thumbs up from locals include Ray Clark’s award-winning barbecue at Fat Guy Southern Kitchen—and be sure to stay for music on the porch. Music and “Q” are also on the menu at Puckett’s on the square.
Tricia's family enjoys dining at Xiaos’ Hibachi, PennePazze, and Toot's, always exploring new spots.
So, gather your family or favorite friends and take the whole gang to Rutherford County for a perfect weekend of flavor and beautiful memories.