Running diagonally across Tennessee, just east of Nashville and immediately west of the major Appalachian spine, the Cumberland Plateau is a comparatively shorter range - it rises roughly 1,000 feet above the surrounding countryside, as opposed to 4,000-6,000 feet, more common in the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge - but no less beautiful. Here, you'll find gorges, waterfalls, arches, sandstone outcroppings, natural bridges, and deep cut valleys where so many outdoor things to do near Nashville await you.
Monteagle, perched on the ledge of the Cumberland Plateau, is your gateway to the entire southern plateau region. All of this is located within a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham, Chattanooga and Knoxville. Read more for a great list of things to do near Nashville.
The funky artistic renditions of goats participating in various forms of goat merriment that adorn the building’s exterior will be what draws you in to the Mountain Goat Market first. But it’s the food that’ll keep you coming back. They’ve got breakfast, an espresso bar, artisanal sandwiches, desserts and even awesome pizzas. And all around the store are eclectic finds of all kinds that you’ll want to bring home. When you roll into Monteagle - your best jump-off point for all the South Cumberland Plateau has to offer - snag your breakfast and coffee here. You’ll be fueled up and ready to kick the exploration into overdrive.
Stepping onto the 13,00-acre grounds of Sewanee really is like a walk through another time and place. This liberal arts college was founded before the Civil War by delegates from 10 dioceses of the Episcopal Church and while it retains a world-renowned School of Theology to this day, it is also well known for the School of Letters where students study creative writing and American literature. The handsome stone architecture (particularly the All Saints’ Chapel) and the Memorial Cross have become iconic photo spots. And conveniently to visitors, the on-campus Sewanee Inn may be the region’s best lodging option.
The Dutch Maid Bakery & Cafe has a history as rich as its baked goods. First opened in 1902 by a couple of Swiss immigrants, it is Tennessee’s oldest family-owned bakery. Many of the tools of the baker’s trade - mixers, ovens - are original to the bakery’s early days, a nod to its heritage from the bakery’s new owner. Pastries, breads, eclairs, fritters and all else behind Dutch Maid’s glass counters are each made from scratch, on site and by hand. And the adjoining cafe’s soup, sandwich and salad offerings make this a perfect refueling stop after a trip hiking or climbing in the South Cumberland State Park.
Speaking of South Cumberland State Park - this 30,845-acre is really nine individual areas of preserved wilderness that constitute one of Tennessee’s greatest and most underutilized natural resources. The notorious Fiery Gizzard Trail is a 13-mile, one-way trail that Backpacker Magazine has listed as one of its favorite hikes in the US. Stone Door is a geological wonder that cannot be properly contended into words and featured in a photograph. And opportunities for rock climbing abound. At Foster Falls and Denny Cove are world-class sports climbing spots that range in grade across nearly 250 routes. These challenging sandstone bluffs attract climbers from all over North America, and for this reason, Tennessee State Parks requires all climbers to obtain a permit, which are available online or by calling the park office itself.
The Caverns, an underground music pavilion created by water over eons, is home to The Caverns Sessions, featuring artists in various genres like EDM, rock, punk, country, bluegrass and more. Attending a concert at the Caverns is an unforgettable experience, and the perfect way to end your visit to the South Cumberland Plateau of Tennessee.
Unique structures both natural and man-made, homemade dishes and desserts, history and music are just waiting to be discovered in Tennessee’s South Cumberland Plateau.
Located in a restored 1850s post office on Lafayette’s square, Gibson’s Cafe blends local flavor with vintage flair. Owned by Miles and Ginger Gibson, this cozy spot features walls lined with pop culture memorabilia and a menu inspired by Ginger’s New York roots—don’t miss the house-cured pastrami Reuben or seasonal cheesecake. On Friday nights, Miles performs his original tunes while guests enjoy steak and seafood specials. Bring your own wine or beer -- it remains a dry county -- and settle in for a meal that feels like a visit with old friends.
Tucked along Muddy Pond Road, Country Porch is a sweet stop in Tennessee’s Mennonite community. Known for its famous sorghum molasses and small-town hospitality, this general store offers local goods, gifts, and irresistible baked treats. Fresh bread is made three days a week, and the deli sandwiches are worth the drive. Grab cinnamon rolls for the road, settle into a rocking chair, and enjoy the peaceful pace of country life.
Tennessee’s oldest winery, Highland Manor in Jamestown, invites guests to stroll its 75-acre estate, sip 14 handcrafted wines, and explore a tasting room full of local finds. With trails, restored vineyards, and a record player spinning vintage tunes, it’s more than a wine stop — it’s a charming escape. Horse lovers will enjoy the nod to nearby East Fork Stables, and the signature Cab Berry remains a must-try.
This family-run bistro in Crossville blends local flair with farm-fresh fare. Chef Rebekah Mullinax names dishes after her kids — try Alexander’s Chicken Flatbread or the Southern Scarlett sandwich. Everything is house-made, including sauces. Burgers use Hidden Valley Farm beef and are city favorites. Stop in for Saturday brunch and order the “nasty biscuit” — a towering plate of Southern comfort with biscuit, fried chicken, gravy and eggs.
Nestled beside the Calfkiller River, this laid-back brewery is a Sparta favorite. Brothers Dave and Don Sergio craft bold, unfiltered beers using pristine local water and Trappist yeast. Try the distinctive Smokey Treat or fan-favorite seasonals in the shady beer garden. With a 1970s home-turned-taproom, record spins and growlers to go, Calfkiller offers an easygoing vibe and flavors as unique as its name.
This downtown McMinnville barbecue joint serves smoked wings, honey-glazed ribs, brisket with Alabama white sauce, and house-made everything. Pitmaster Joe O’Neal’s family recipes shine — from cornbread salad to hickory-smoked salmon. The two-story space has vintage charm and live music upstairs. Stop by before your river adventure and grab a picnic pack to-go.
Chef Chad Combs brings Nashville training to his hometown at this Cookeville hotspot. Seven Senses serves locally sourced fare like grilled Atlantic salmon and Bacon Cheese Grit Puppies. Everything from the dressing to the dessert is made in-house. Settle into a downtown seat, soak up the buzz and taste the passion in every bite.
This distillery captures Smoky Mountain spirit in small batches of moonshine, bourbon, vodka and liqueurs. Try smooth “80 Proof Water” vodka or brave the 100-proof White Lightning. With 24 spirits and creative mixes like cinnamon roll cocktails, there’s a flavor for every palate. Located in a historic hardware store, it’s a spirited stop in downtown Cookeville.
Cookeville’s first brewery features an open brewhaus, live music, and rotating taps brewed on-site by its three co-owners. Sip Honey Bear Blonde with local wildflower honey or explore small-batch brews like Broast Yoself Pale Ale. Enjoy tunes on the patio or bring your dog along for Blues Jam Wednesdays and weekend sets.
Childhood friends Kevin Maxwell and Chris Batty created this stylish, welcoming restaurant in downtown Cookeville. Repurposed architectural elements set the tone, while Chef Dustin Dishmon puts a refined twist on Southern classics. Highlights include seared filet with red wine glaze and pork belly with turnip green slaw. Open late with live music on weekends.
Just an hour from Nashville International Airport, Wildwood Resort and Marina offers a lakeside escape on scenic Cordell Hull Lake. Spot eagles, otters and deer as you paddle, cruise or unwind by the water. Enjoy Tex-Mex and barbecue at Timberloft at the Marina, then grab a craft cocktail on the patio. Stay overnight in retro Airstreams, cozy cabins or luxury lodge rooms. Whether you're glamping or boating in, expect comfort, charm and a warm welcome. Don't miss live music nights and Saturday sunset cruises—just one more reason to linger a little longer by the lake.
