Cookeville

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Cookeville's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Downtown
morning
:

Start your first morning in Cookeville by grabbing a cozy breakfast at a local café. Wander through the charming downtown area, where you can admire historic architecture and quirky shops. Don’t forget to stop by the Cookeville Depot Museum to learn about the city's railroad history.

afternoon
:

After lunch at one of the many delightful eateries, spend your afternoon at the Tennessee Tech University, where you can stroll through the beautiful campus and perhaps catch an art exhibit at the student gallery. Visit local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs, and chat with friendly shop owners about their crafts. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely walk in the nearby Dogwood Park, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local steakhouse, where you can savor a hearty meal made from locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, consider catching a live performance at the Cookeville Performing Arts Center or a local music venue. Wind down your night by sipping a nightcap at a cozy bar and reflecting on your day.

day 2
Nature Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day early with a delicious breakfast to fuel your exploration of nature-heavy attractions surrounding Cookeville, such as the Cummins Falls State Park. Hike the scenic trails, and take in breathtaking views and the sound of cascading waterfalls. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the picturesque landscape.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river after your hike, then explore more of Cummins Falls, where you can cool off by the cascading waters. The afternoon can also be well-spent fishing or swimming in the designated areas. Before heading back to town, take a moment to appreciate the peacefulness of nature in this beautiful region.

evening
:

As dusk falls, return to Cookeville and treat yourself to dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights local produce and meats. Engage with locals and fellow travelers here, and share stories of your day's adventures. Cap off your evening with a relaxing stroll downtown to experience the lively night atmosphere.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Delve into the local culture at the Cookeville History Museum, where you’ll gain insights into the rich heritage of the area. Spend the morning learning about Native American history and the origins of Cookeville. Afterward, grab a quick bite at a nearby brunch spot known for its Southern delicacies.

afternoon
:

Your afternoon will be dedicated to a self-guided tour of local art galleries and studios, where you can appreciate the work of regional artists. Participating in a workshop could also be an enriching experience, where you might learn pottery or painting. You'll enjoy engaging with artists and appreciating their creative processes.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural evening at a local theater, where you can see a play or musical performance showcasing Cookeville's artistic talent. Afterward, grab dinner at a nearby ethnic restaurant that offers a taste of Global cuisine. Conclude your night with a visit to a local coffee house to unwind over a warm drink.

day 4
Outdoor Exploration
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a visit to the scenic Standing Stone State Park, where the gorgeous landscapes beckon outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or bring a packed meal to relish amidst nature’s beauty. Spend the morning fishing or hiking on the various trails with stunning views.

afternoon
:

The afternoon invites you to explore more of the park’s recreational activities such as paddle boating or biking. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a picnic area, soaking in the calming sounds of nature. If you're up for it, try geocaching for a fun treasure hunt experience.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head back to Cookeville for dinner at a local favorite known for its barbecue. Share tales of your adventures with fellow diners or locals, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Spend your evening at a local pub enjoying live music, or simply relaxing with a crafted drink.

day 5
Gastronomic Delights
morning
:

Start your day with a culinary adventure at a breakfast spot famous for its homemade pastries and coffee. After enjoying a hearty meal, consider visiting local farms or markets to learn about farm-to-table processes and organic produce. Gather ingredients for a cooking class you might attend later in the day.

afternoon
:

After your culinary explorations, participate in a cooking class where you can learn to make classic Southern dishes. Enjoy your creation for lunch, surrounded by fellow cooking enthusiasts. This interactive afternoon will build friendships and enhance your cooking skills.

evening
:

After an afternoon of cooking, unwind with a casual dinner at a food truck park or a trendy bistro that emphasizes local flavors. Adventure into more gastronomic realms by embarking on a food tour in Cookeville, sampling local specialties. Wrap your culinary journey with dessert at a local bakery, indulging in sweet creations.

day 6
Shopping and Leisure
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a quaint café, and prepare for a day of shopping at The Cookeville Mall and nearby specialty shops. After breakfast, explore unique boutiques where you can find handmade crafts, vintage items, and trendy clothing. Stroll through the local art shop for unique gifts to take home.

afternoon
:

Savor lunch at a local café renowned for its sandwiches, then continue your shopping spree at the local Farmer's Market, where you can find fresh produce, homemade jams, and artisan crafts. Engage with local vendors as you sample farm-fresh offerings and purchase unique items. Take a leisurely break with a coffee from a nearby café.

evening
:

In the evening, relish dinner at a charming restaurant with outdoor seating that allows you to enjoy the warm Cookeville breeze. Look for restaurants that showcase local musicians to add entertainment to your meal. Finish off your shopping experience with a trip to a local ice cream parlor or dessert shop.

day 7
Historical Sites Tour
morning
:

Delve into history by starting your day at the Cookeville Depot Museum, where you can view artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city. After your visit, enjoy breakfast at a nearby diner that reflects the nostalgia of old Cookeville. Take a moment to appreciate the antique décor while chatting with locals.

afternoon
:

The afternoon can be spent exploring the historic side of Cookeville, visiting the Westside School Museum and the Putnam County Historical Society. Immerse yourself in tales of yesteryear and the significant events that shaped the area. You could also consider joining a guided historical walking tour to enhance your experience.

evening
:

For dinner, visit a historic restaurant that has been a part of the community for decades, sampling dishes born from family recipes. Afterward, seek out any community events or historical reenactments taking place and join in on the festivities. End your evening with a peaceful walk along local town squares, reflecting on the historical insights you've gained.

day 8
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Begin your family fun day with breakfast at a family-friendly diner that caters to all ages, providing comfort food favorites. Planning a day filled with fun activities for kids is essential, starting at the Cookeville Children's Museum, where creativity and learning intersect. The morning will be filled with imaginative play and educational exhibits.

afternoon
:

After a morning of interactive learning, have lunch at a kid-friendly restaurant, then head to Dogwood Park for outdoor fun like picnicking and playground activities. You could also take advantage of the splash pad during warmer months, offering kids hours of entertainment. Engage in outdoor games and races for a lively afternoon.

evening
:

Conclude your family fun day with a casual dinner at a pizzeria where families can enjoy making their own pizzas. Consider visiting a local cinema to catch a family-friendly movie, creating a fun and memorable finish to your day. Cap it all off with dessert from a local ice cream shop, making sure to indulge in tasty treats.

day 9
Adventure Sports
morning
:

Embrace adventure early in the morning with a hearty breakfast to prepare for an adrenaline-fueled day engaging in activities like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on local lakes. Head to the nearby Center Hill Lake for some high-energy fun on the water. You’ll appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you while you engage in thrilling sports.

afternoon
:

After your morning activities, break for lunch at a lakeside café, enjoying a meal with a panoramic view of the water. Spend the afternoon on an exciting zipline adventure or rock climbing at nearby facilities, where you can challenge both your skill and nerve. Experiencing these thrilling adventures will leave you with lasting memories.

evening
:

Ending your active day, return to Cookeville for a relaxing dinner at a restaurant known for its hearty meals. Share stories of your day’s adventures with your companions over good food. Consider unwinding with a tranquil evening stroll by the lakeside or visit a local bar for some post-adventure relaxation.

Discover Cookeville

Read more in our Cookeville 2025 Travel Guide.

Cookeville Travel Guide