Things To Do
in Dickson
Dickson, Tennessee is a friendly small city located west of Nashville that serves as the county seat of Dickson County. It blends a historic downtown square, local shops and cafes, and easy access to rivers, parks and state-managed forestland. Visitors find a relaxed pace, regular community events and a strong sense of Appalachian-Tennessee heritage.
The town is a convenient base for day trips to Montgomery Bell State Park and Nashville while offering classic Southern food and outdoor recreation.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Dickson, where you can savor homemade pastries and fresh coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic center, admiring the charming architecture and unique shops that line the streets. Don’t forget to stop by the Dickson County Museum to learn about the town's rich history.
For lunch, indulge in some southern comfort food at a local restaurant known for its fried chicken and biscuits. Afterward, visit the nearby parks, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and perhaps a picnic under the shade of the trees. Make sure to check out the local art installations that dot the landscape, showcasing the talents of local artists.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local breweries for a tasting of craft beers made on-site. Pair your drinks with some small plates while enjoying live music from local bands, creating a vibrant atmosphere. End the night with a stroll through the town square, taking in the twinkling lights and the sounds of laughter and conversation.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Montgomery Bell State Park. Spend the morning hiking along the scenic trails, where you can spot various wildlife and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas and potential wildlife encounters.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch by the lakeside, soaking in the natural beauty around you. Spend the afternoon kayaking or fishing in the tranquil waters, providing a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with nature. Take a moment to reflect and enjoy the serenity of the park before returning to town.
As evening approaches, return to Dickson and treat yourself to dinner at a cozy family-owned restaurant. Enjoy classic southern dishes while sharing stories of your day’s adventures with your companions. After dinner, catch a movie at the local cinema for a relaxed end to the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly for one) | $30-60 |
| 🚕Short rideshare/taxi | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to outdoor recreation (parks, rivers, trails)
- Friendly small-town atmosphere with local events
- Short drive to Nashville for big-city attractions
- Lower prices and less congestion than nearby metro areas
- Limited late-night entertainment and dining options within town
- Public transportation is minimal — a car is helpful
- Fewer cultural institutions and specialized services than a city
Places to Visit in Dickson
Visit one of these nice places.
The courthouse, murals and streetscape offer classic small-town Americana shots, especially in morning or golden hour light.
Wooded ridges, lakes and remnants of early ironworks provide scenic, natural and historical compositions—excellent for landscape and nature photography.
Riverside trees, reflections and seasonal wildflowers make for peaceful nature photography and birding shots.
Classic Tennessee farm scenes—pastures, barns, fences and rolling hills—great at sunrise or during autumn color.
Food in Dickson
Dickson Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-smoked meats served with traditional sauces and sides—coleslaw, baked beans and hush puppies; found at family-run BBQ joints and roadside stands.
Must-Try!
Choose one meat and three sides (greens, mac & cheese, collards, black-eyed peas) at classic Southern cafeterias and diners across town.
Flaky homemade biscuits smothered in sausage gravy—a popular breakfast staple at local breakfast spots and diners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market (spring–fall) featuring local produce, baked goods, preserves and occasional food vendors—great for fresh fruit, honey and farmstand sandwiches.
Look for weekend pop-ups and food trucks at community events that serve barbecue, tacos, and Southern comfort street food during festivals and market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents value politeness and friendliness—greetings, small talk and holding doors are common. A simple 'hello' or 'how are you?' goes a long way.
Much land around Dickson is private farmland—observe signage and stay on public trails; always ask before photographing people or private property up close.
Religious life plays a visible role in many communities; be respectful of Sunday services and church events, and check schedules for local businesses that may close midday or on Sundays.
Safety
Tipping in Dickson
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% for restaurant servers, $1–2 per drink for bar service, $2–5 for valet or bell services where offered, and 10–20% for taxi or rideshare drivers depending on service.
Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in town; small vendors, markets and some food trucks may prefer cash—ATMs are available but not always near parks, so carry some cash for remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make spring ideal for hiking, paddling and visiting the farmers’ market; occasional heavy rain and pollen are common.
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the 80s–90s°F; afternoons bring thunderstorms. Water activities and early-morning hikes are recommended to avoid heat.
Comfortable weather and colorful foliage—one of the best times for outdoor activities, scenic drives and photography; festival season ramps up on weekends.
Cool to cold with brief freezes and occasional snow or ice. Most outdoor amenities remain open; dress in layers and be mindful of possible icy roads after storms.
Dickson at Night
Hiking in Dickson
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails through forested ridges and around small lakes, with routes suitable for hiking, trail running and mountain biking; also features historical sites tied to early ironworks.
Riverside trails and access points for short nature walks, birdwatching and paddling along calm stretches of the local river system.
County backroads with pullouts and short trailheads for casual walks and photography—especially attractive in autumn for foliage viewing.
Airports
How to reach Dickson by plane.
The primary commercial airport for the region, about a 35–50 minute drive east of Dickson depending on traffic; offers domestic and international flights, rental cars and ground transportation to the area.
Several smaller general aviation airports around Nashville (including John C. Tune Airport) serve private planes and charters; useful for private flyers and quicker access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families have lived in the area for generations, contributing to a strong sense of local history and community institutions.
A segment of the population commutes to Nashville and surrounding employers, drawn by lower housing costs and small-town living.
Like many parts of Tennessee, Dickson is seeing gradual growth in Hispanic/Latino and other demographic groups, adding to cultural variety and new local businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Friday night high school football is a major local tradition drawing families and community support across the county.
Youth and adult leagues are common, with community fields hosting weekend games and tournaments during the warmer months.
Recreational fishing and small-boat boating on local rivers, creeks and nearby lakes are popular pastimes year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dickson.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but can be limited in traditional diners—look for salads, vegetable sides, grilled cheese, and seasonal vegetable plates; call ahead for special requests.
Vegan choices are more limited; seek out salads, fruit plates, grains, and some plant-based specials at cafes. Bringing snacks is a good backup when exploring rural areas.
Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests (grilled meats, salads without croutons, simple sides); always inform staff about cross-contamination concerns.