What to See in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

While Nashville is considered to be the primary tourist attraction for Tennessee being the City of Music, there is still much more to see and explore in the state of Tennessee. One of the options is Murfreesboro, the county seat of Rutherford County. It is Tennessee’s fastest growing city and home to Middle Tennessee State University, the largest undergraduate university in the state.

Booking at Sleep Inn Hotel in Murfreesboro Tennessee would be a great advantage for those visiting the Middle Tennessee State University as it is conveniently located within the area. You can also explore various attractions like the Stones River National Battlefield. The Stones River Mall is also a walking distance from the hotel.

Music is not lost in this county seat though, as it hosts several music-oriented events annually, including the Main Street Jazzfest, which is presented by Middle Tennessee State University's School of Music. For over 30 years, “Uncle Dave Macon Days” has celebrated the musical tradition of Uncle Dave Macon. This annual July event includes national competitions for old-time music and dancing.

 

Stones River National Battlefield

Stones River National Battlefield is a 580-acre area that was used for battle during the Civil War, located about 30 minutes south of Nashville. If you are in the area, it is worth the visit. They have an informative visitor's center (along with a well provisioned gift shop), a small driving tour, and excellent park rangers.

 

Stones River Mall

This is the premier shopping destination of Rutherford County and Middle Tennessee, anchored by Sears, Dillard's, JC Penney, and Goody's. It features over 50 specialty stores such as Gap, Starbucks, Finish Line, LensCrafters, and Spencer Gifts. It is a shopping haven for locals and tourists alike.

 

Murfreesboro/Rutherford County Center for the Arts

Located just 30 minutes east of downtown Nashville, artists from around the country present their work at this visual and performing arts venue. The Center for Arts is part of the beautiful Carnegie Library, and consists of a large gallery and auditorium.

Changing art exhibits and musical performances run throughout the year. A range of theater productions and children's workshops occur from time to time.

 

Oaklands Historic House and Museum

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this antebellum mansion looks much as it did 150 years ago. Once home to Col. Hardy Murfree, for whom the town of Murfreesboro is named, the structure, furnishings and surrounding property provide an authentic view of 19th century America and its war-torn South. During the United States Civil War, both Union and Confederate armies camped and fought here.

About the Author: Martha Blythe is a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University and has explored Murfreesboro during her undergraduate days.