Things To Do
in Fairfield Glade

Fairfield Glade is a master-planned resort community in Cumberland County, Tennessee, set among rolling hills and sparkling lakes. It centers around five golf courses, miles of walking and biking trails, and a welcoming village center with shops and casual dining. The area is known for its outdoor recreation, scenic views, and a laid-back, friendly Southern vibe.

It serves as a calm gateway to Crossville and the Cumberland Plateau, with year-round activities for visitors and seasonal residents alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Welcome to Fairfield Glade
morning
:

Kick off your trip with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring homemade biscuits and gravy. Afterward, take a stroll around Lake Cupid, where the serene waters and surrounding nature provide a beautiful start to your day. Explore the nature trails nearby to soak in the fresh air and stunning landscapes.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon indulging in a round of golf at one of the five scenic courses in the area, each boasting picturesque views. Alternatively, visit the local shops for unique gifts and crafts made by local artisans. Recharge with a picnic lunch at the scenic Peavine Falls where you can enjoy the beauty of nature.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, head to the resort's dining venue for a delightful dinner featuring local specialties. Afterward, relax around a bonfire, sharing stories and making s'mores under a sky full of stars. Conclude your day with a quiet walk, allowing the tranquility of the area to wind down your evening.

day 2
Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Start your day with an energizing breakfast before embarking on a guided kayak tour on the nearby lakes. Paddle through calm waters as you enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife along the shoreline. This is a perfect way to connect with nature and kick off a day full of adventure.

afternoon
:

Enjoy an afternoon hike on the scenic trails, diving deeper into the natural beauty of the Cumberland Mountains. Don't forget to capture breathtaking photos of the diverse flora and fauna along the way. After your hike, relax with a visit to the local spa for a well-deserved rejuvenation session.

evening
:

As night falls, try dining at one of the charming bistros in the heart of Fairfield Glade. Relish the flavors of a locally sourced meal while enjoying live music that showcases regional talent. Wind down your day with a peaceful evening walk around the resort grounds.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🏨Hotel or resort stay (per night)$100-180
🛒Grocery bill (monthly)$250-400
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3-4
Coffee at cafe$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Excellent access to outdoor recreation and scenic lakes
  • Well-maintained golf courses and community amenities
  • Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with a safe environment
  • Limited nightlife and urban attractions within Fairfield Glade
  • Seasonal tourism can affect crowds and pricing
  • Requires a car for most activities beyond the village center

Places to Visit in Fairfield Glade

Visit one of these nice places.

Fairfield Glade Lakeside Promenade

Open lake views with opportunities for sunrise and golden-hour photography, plus reflections on calm days.

Bear Trace Golf Course Overlook

Rolling greens and scenic vistas over water features—great for landscape shots.

Swan Lake at Fairfield Glade

Waterfowl habitats and serene shorelines ideal for reflections and wildlife photography.

Cumberland Plateau Vista Points

Elevated lookouts with panoramic views across the plateau and forested hills.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fairfield Glade

The Crossville-Fairfield Glade area offers hearty Southern comfort food, farm-to-table options, and casual lakeside dining. Expect generous portions, good coffee, and dishes that showcase local produce and meat options.

Fairfield Glade Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pulled Pork Barbecue

Slow-smoked pork with tangy sauce, commonly found at local BBQ joints around Crossville and Fairfield Glade.

Must-Try!

Meat-and-Three

A classic Southern plate featuring a protein with three sides; widely available at local diners and cafes.

Fried Catfish

Crispy fried catfish with hush puppies, a staple at lakeside eateries and casual restaurants.

Biscuits and Gravy

Savory breakfast classic served at many local diners and cafes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Crossville Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, honey, jams, baked goods, and crafts; best in spring and summer.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fairfield Glade experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot with humidity; winters are cool to cold with occasional light snow; springs are mild and wet, while autumns bring colorful foliage and cooler, crisp air.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Southern Hospitality

Friendly greetings and polite conversation go a long way; a smile and please/thank you are appreciated.

Golf Course Etiquette

Respect dress codes on courses; repair divots and keep pace with the group ahead.

Quiet Hours

Be mindful of neighbors and wildlife, especially near lakes and trails—keep noise to a minimum after the evening hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Safety in the area is generally good, with typical rural precautions. Stay aware of wildlife near trails, lock vehicles when parked at lakes, and carry a basic first aid kit on hikes. Have emergency numbers handy and know the location of the nearest hospital in Crossville.

Tipping in Fairfield Glade

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

15–20% at sit-down restaurants; tips for hotel staff, guides, and delivery services; rounding up small bills is common for casual services.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy. Mobile payments and contactless options are increasingly common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and greenery; occasional showers—pack layers and a compact umbrella.

Summer

Warm to hot days with higher humidity; thunderstorms are common in the afternoons—hydrate and plan outdoor activities earlier or later in the day.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and cooler air; ideal for hiking and photography; bring a light jacket for evenings.

Winter

Cool to chilly with occasional snowfall; outdoor activities are still enjoyable with proper gear and indoor options available.

Nightlife Guide

Fairfield Glade at Night

The nightlife in Fairfield Glade is relaxed and low-key, centered around resort amenities and nearby Crossville’s casual bars, live music venues, and dining spots. Expect social hours at the village center, occasional concerts, and seasonal events, with plenty of opportunities for a laid-back evening rather than a bustling club scene.

Hiking in Fairfield Glade

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cumberland Trail – Regional Segment

Accessible day hikes with forest scenery, lake views, and ridge crossings along the Cumberland Plateau.

Frozen Head State Park Trails

Forest trails near Wartburg featuring waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints; excellent for a day hike.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Trails

Easy to moderate trails with birdwatching opportunities and water features.

Clover Bend Ridge Trail

Ridge-top hike offering sweeping valley views near Crossville.

Airports

How to reach Fairfield Glade by plane.

Nashville International Airport (BNA)

Major hub about 3 hours away by car, with extensive domestic flight options and a broad network of connections.

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville

Regional airport about 2 hours away, offering domestic flights and car rentals.

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA)

Smaller regional airport roughly 2.5–3 hours away, with a limited but useful range of flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fairfield Glade offers some walkable options within the village center and along lakefront paths, but overall it is not highly walkable for long urban strolls. Most visitors rely on a car to reach golf courses, markets, and Crossville attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retirees and Seasonal Residents

A large portion of the population comes for the outdoor lifestyle and community amenities.

Families and Outdoor Enthusiasts

Visitors and residents who enjoy golf, lakes, trails, and relaxed social scenes.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Golf

Five courses in the Fairfield Glade area anchor the local sports culture.

Tennis and Pickleball

Numerous courts and clubs support seasonal leagues and casual play.

Fishing

Lakes and streams offer freshwater fishing opportunities for beginners and enthusiasts.

Hiking and Trail Running

Accessible trails around lakes and hills encourage outdoor activity year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate in this rural region, with occasional peak-hour slowdowns around major routes during holiday weekends. Public transportation options are limited; most travelers rely on personal vehicles or rideshares.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fairfield Glade.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many cafes and diners offer veggie plates, salads, and plant-based options; ask for meat-free preparations and dairy-free sauces when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access is centered in Crossville with Cumberland Medical Center and several clinics, urgent care facilities, and specialty services within a short drive from Fairfield Glade.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide