Cookeville is a beautiful destination to explore, with a wide range of attractions. Check out some of the most exciting things to do in Cookeville before heading out on your vacation here.
Though a small town, there is something for everyone here in Cookeville. It is a beautiful tourist destination surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural attractions.
With more than 150 waterfalls, a vast coastline, and fine restaurants, Cookeville is a delight to visit.
It is also home to some of the world’s most famous artists and chefs, which means you will find many interesting museums and an excellent dining experience.
There’s also a theater that hosts all kinds of events. You will be fascinated by just what this city has to offer.
Check out our list of things to do in Cookeville (TN) as you plan your trip.
Fun Things To Do In Cookeville (TN)
1. Watch a Performance at the Backdoor Playhouse
The Backdoor Playhouse ranks high on the list of the best-performing theaters in town. It is the perfect place to relax and catch some fun.
It is situated at Tennessee Tech University, which is quite popular with most entertainment lovers. No matter what your taste is, the theater puts up shows of different genres. It would be best if you visited them soon.
It has a comfortable and beautiful ambiance that makes it cozy and nice.
Address: 805 Quadrangle, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
2. Enjoy a Memorable Horseback Riding Experience with Circle K. Horse Pavilion
The Circle K Horse Pavilion is the perfect place to try some horseback riding. They offer training courses for riders of all skill levels – beginner, intermediate and advanced.
You don’t have to worry, as safety standards are strictly followed here to ensure your safety and that of the horse too.
You can ride in or out of the arena, as there are numerous trails and lush pastures around. When was the last time you tried horse riding? Don’t miss this opportunity.
Address: 4698 Bohannon Ln, Cookeville, TN 38506, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Brentwood (TN)
3. Go Riding with the Gentlest Horses at Wildwood Stables
Here is another horseriding option for you. You don’t have any reason not to try this out.
Enjoy some safe and fun horseriding here in Cookeville. Located in downtown Crossville, the Wildwood Stables is about an hour’s drive from Cookeville.
Wildwood Stables has many beautiful long trails perfect for horseriding and hiking. The horses here are quiet and friendly. You can’t help but love them!
Wildwood Stables also offers dinner hangouts and cart rides too; what a delight!
Address: 1450 Westchester Dr, Crossville, TN 38558, United States
Things To Do In Cookeville (TN) At Night
1. Enjoy a Unique Cinematic Experience at Sparta Drive-In
Nothing beats the experience Sparta Drive-In offers. Sitting in your car after the day’s work and watching a thrilling or comic movie.
This driving theater is very popular with locals and tourists alike. It shows all genres of movies, all blockbusters.
The car arrangement is quite appealing. You don’t have to worry about getting hungry, too, as they are food vendors close by to make you even more comfortable.
It’s a must-visit.
Address: 220 Roberts Matthews Hwy, Sparta, TN 38583, United States
2. Eat at Crawdaddy’s
Crawdaddy’s is one of the best in town. You should visit.
They offer New Orleans-inspired food like crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, gumbo, fried shrimp, crawfish, or oysters.
They also have a bar that offers cocktails, local beers, and a wide range of wine and liquor.
Check out one of their special weekly events, like Sunday Brunch and Jazz. You shouldn’t miss the chance to enjoy good music from local bands.
Address: 762 Parkway #5, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States
3. Visit Chattanooga Choo Choo
Chattanooga Choo Choo is a former hotel that has become a railway depot. It doesn’t exactly offer a train ride, but it’s a delight to visit all the same.
You can stay overnight in one of its historic Pullman cars or choose a traditional room. It has many restaurants, shops, bars, and a comedy club. You’ll never get bored here.
Don’t fail to visit while you’re in town.
Address: 92 Choo Choo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Maryville (TN)
Things To Do In Cookeville (TN) For Couples
1. Shop at the Market on the Square
The Market on the Square is one of the best shopping destinations in Cookeville. It offers various products; you can find virtually whatever you want here.
If you need some home decor and interior accessories, you can check out their numerous stores.
It is a one-stop destination for fulfilling all your shopping needs while you’re in Cookeville.
Address: 6 N Jefferson Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
2. Join a Wine Tasting Tour at Delmonaco Winery & Vineyards
Go on a Delmonaco Winery & Vineyards tour and enjoy some great wines. Their guides are friendly and experienced; they will tell you the stories about each wine as you go on.
All wines are made fresh with ingredients from the vineyards and are just above the earth.
The vineyard is also perfect for pictures, as the lush green vegetation is just a delight to look at.
Address: 600 Lance Dr, Baxter, TN 38544, United States
3. Father Tom’s Pub
You’re guaranteed to have a great experience at Father Tom’s Pub while enjoying wine, alcoholic beverages, local drinks, and amazing food.
Their menu ranges from sandwiches, fish ‘n’ chips, a signature quesadilla, or Bernie Mac – a homemade white cheddar mac and cheese stuffed with hot chicken.
It’s something you don’t want to miss while you’re here. You should visit them.
Address: 32 N Cedar Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
Things To Do In Cookeville (TN) For Kids
1. Satisfy Their Sweet Tooth at Cream City Ice Cream & Coffee House
The Cream City Ice Cream & Coffee House is the perfect place to grab some tasty ice cream and desserts.
It is one of the best in the city. They have a variety of flavors available, so you can try out as many as you want.
Some of their regulars are peanut butter, Tennessee fudge, black cherry, cookies and cream, caramel cone, cake batter, and much more.
They also serve beverages such as milkshakes, affogato, sundaes, and smoothies.
Address: 119 W Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
2. Enjoy an Old-School Arcade Experience at Paradise Games and Arcade
What could be better than having a thrilling game after work?
Paradise Games and Arcade is the best place to try your hands on so many games. You’ll love every time you spend here.
It is a perfect place to bond with the kids, have fun, and relax.
It has an amusement park where the kids can play different games like retro games and cones, cabinet games, new consoles and games, pool tables, virtual reality games, and more.
Address: 8 S Washington Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
3. Spend Time at Cane Creek Park
Cane Creek Park is one of the most lovely places to be in Cookeville.
The park has a playground, picnic shelters, and barbecues. You can try fishing or go on boat rides.
Pets are also allowed, so you can come along with your furry friends and walk them down the smooth trail.
It is good for hiking and jogging too. It also has a volleyball and basketball court.
Address: 201 C C Camp Rd, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Columbia (TN)
Indoor Activities To Do In Cookeville (TN) For Adults
1. Step Back in Time at the Cookeville History Museum
The Cookeville Museum of Natural History provides programs, activities, and exhibitions that enhance the history of Putnam County and Cookeville. It is a good place to learn about local history.
The museum is unique because it promotes only local content, showing exhibitions from various local tourists.
Feel free to visit the museum anytime, as there are always shows and exhibitions that will interest you.
Address: 40 E Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
2. Sample the Most Exquisite Wines at Stonehaus Winery
Stonehaus Winery is a popular family-owned winery perfect for a tour because of its beautiful aesthetic.
Apart from granting tours, this winery also organizes events that allow you to taste so many flavors of wines. You wouldn’t want to miss such an offer.
It also has a luxury store where you can get great gifts as souvenirs. They serve delicious food as well. Not forgetting the most delicious homemade fudges in town.
Address: 2444 Genesis Rd #103, Crossville, TN 38571, United States
3. Red Silo Brewing Company
Pull up a chair at Red Silo Brewing Company to try out their little beers.
They serve various beers like brown ales, pilsner, stouts, sours, and even hard seltzer lemon and root beer.
They also have live music each time you can enjoy. So it’s just generally a great time here. You should come along with friends and loved ones, as the taste of the beer and the fun of the place is better when it’s shared.
Address: 118 W 1st St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Cleveland (TN)
Romantic Things To Do In Cookeville (TN)
1. Have a Scenic Picnic at Hidden Hollow Park
Hidden Hollow Park, now a recreational club, initially functioned as a tobacco, cattle, and corn farm.
However, it was renovated and now includes a swimming pool, fishing ponds, playgrounds, picnic areas, flood lights, volleyball courts, and a zoo.
It is a beautiful park where you can spend time with your partner. It would be best if you took advantage of this.
Address: Cookeville, TN 38506, United States
2. Kick-Start Your Day with Breakfast at Poet’s Coffee
Poet’s Coffee allows you to see the world while enjoying your cup of coffee.
They offer caffeinated beverages like Americanos and Cuban espressos. And also various teas, such as hot green tea, Earl Gray, and White Orchard.
Along with its delicious Coffee, Poet’s Coffee also offers a variety of old bagels with avocado, cream cheese, and other ingredients that make a perfect breakfast at Poet’s Coffee.
Address: 230 E Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
3. Shopping in Downtown Cookeville
Go on a shopping spree at the best shops in the city, most of them are found downtown. You start with the 31 Twenty-Five Boutique; whatever fashion item you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it here.
Not forgetting Cigi, you don’t necessarily have to buy; you can window shop and admire various items for hours, as they have quite a good collection here. Ranging from jewelry, shoes, and clothes. And also house items too.
You can head to the West Side Cultural District, where you will find shops such as Broadway Boutique Mall and Luxe Boutique.
Address: Tennessee, USA
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kingsport (TN)
Free Things To Do In Cookeville (TN)
1. Stroll Around Dogwood Park
Dogwood Park is where to go if you need some peace and quiet. It has beautiful trails for a perfect lazy walk.
There’s a rose garden as well, where you get to admire lush and beautiful flowers, and of course, take pictures too; you should come with a camera, don’t forget!
The park also has picnic areas and a water park for children; no one is left out.
There are shaded trees, so you don’t have to worry so much about the sun.
Address: 30 E Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
2. Make Your Way to Cummins Falls State Park
Cummins Falls State Park is a popular attraction among locals and tourists. Its aesthetic is something everyone should experience at least once in their life.
Didi you know it is the largest waterfall in the area? Cummins Falls has picnic areas, parking, and well-maintained trails.
You should visit and explore this fascinating attraction.
Address: 390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
3. See Cookeville’s Famous Our Protectors Mural
This is one of the city’s most famous murals.
It was painted in honor of law enforcement officials, firefighters, paramedics, paramedics, soldiers, and local people who were active during the September 2001 events.
The murals were painted by local talents. It speaks of the value of the city.
Cheap Things To Do In Cookeville (TN)
1. Take a Walk through Railroad History at the Cookeville Depot Museum
The Cookeville Depot Museum is a popular historical site in the city.
It carries out numerous art exhibitions showcasing the history and development of the Tennessee Central Railway.
The railway history museum showcases a variety of trains, including Red Caboose since 1920, caboose since the 1960s, car tracking, Baldwin steam engine since 1912, and more.
The most exciting thing about this museum and its exhibitions is that admission is free. You should take advantage of it.
Address: 116 W Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
Also see: 24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Crossville (TN)
2. Treat Yourself to a Nice Meal at Seven Senses Food & Cheer
Seven Senses Food & Cheer is quite famous for its South American cuisine. It ranks among the best restaurants in town.
Grab lunch or dinner here, and you’ll be glad you did.
Their menu includes salads, tacos, lean chicken wings, fried cucumbers, sandwiches, burgers, and much more.
With culturally rich food and welcoming staff, Seven Senses Food and Cheer is a great place to find satisfying food. Visit them while you’re here; it promises to be the best you’ve ever had.
Address: 32 W Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
3. Cumberland Caverns
With more than 30 miles of underground exploration sites, you can go on Discovery Walking Tours, held hourly, where you get to walk down the cave entrance using beautiful wood.
The tour brings you to some of the most famous and easily accessible cave sections with beautiful aesthetics, like the Volcano Room and its large, precious chandelier (they have concerts, dinners, and weddings in this room), and, of course, an underground waterfall.
There is a waterfall whose origin has never been found, which makes the cave even more mysterious.
Several events are held at the Cumberland Caverns. You should attend one.
Address: 1437 Cumberland Caverns Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110, United States
Cool Places To Visit In Cookeville (TN)
1. Burgess Falls State Park
Walking in the majestic Upper Cumberland is a memorable experience.
Burgess Falls State Park is a total beauty to behold. It has three magnificent waterfalls, with so many camping areas as well.
So many rivers are around the park, with high mountains considered one of the area’s most difficult.
Why not take a picture of this beautiful attraction while you’re here for memory’s sake? Check the weather report before you leave.
Address: 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Hendersonville (TN)
2. Outdoor Experience
To enjoy the outdoor recreation in Cookeville, Tennessee, you should check out.
Enjoy a good time outdoors at the Outdoor Experience. You can try out so many things here, like hiking, boat rides, kayak rides, fishing, and lots more.
Don’t get left out. Get your gear ready from the in-house shop.
You could try out other activities here, such as an arcade house, a museum, and a theater.
Address: 124 E Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States
Conclusion
Cookeville is an amazing historic city that has what it takes to make your vacation the best you’ve ever had.
From green spaces to picnic parks, waterfalls, shopping malls, and clubs, a trip to Cookeville is all you need. Don’t miss anything; make our checklist of things to do in Cookeville (TN) your guide.
We’ve listed in this article these fun places to make your vacation lovely. Let us know in the comments the one you’ll try out first on arrival.
