Blog

Tennessee cities, especially Morrison, are famous for their delicious fried chicken. So, if you're craving some juicy fried chicken while in Morrison, Tennessee, check out these top restaurants in the area, which promise to satisfy your hunger. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify hours of operations by contacting the businesses directly. Prater's Bar-B-Que Prater's Bar-B-Que might be known for its finger-licking ribs and heaping platters of barbecue, but the restaurant offers a lot more. You'll also find some of the tastiest fried chicken in Morrison here. If you have an appetite, you can start your meal with some onion rings, fried pickle chips, or cheese sticks. When you're ready for your chicken, go with the fried tender plate that comes with two sides. We recommend you try these three side options: the potato salad, sweet potato fries, and baked potato. If you're feeding a crowd, order the chicken tender family pack, which includes 16 tenders, two sides, and rolls. more Medley's Diner Medley's Diner, another top Morrison restaurant, is a laid-back spot where you can find some of your favorite comfort food. If you decide to stop by for lunch, the fried chicken sandwich is sure to satisfy your appetite. For dinner, you can't go wrong ordering the Southern fried chicken plate that comes with your choice of salad or coleslaw, a baked potato or onion rings, and a roll or grilled bread. Plus, kids who love fried chicken will enjoy the chicken strips children's dinner. Collins River BBQ & Cafe Travel just 10 miles northeast of Morrison for a friend chicken treat at Collins River BBQ & Cafe. This down-home cafe in the heart of McMinnville is a local favorite for delicious fried chicken. The hand-breaded chicken tenders are one of many great options. They're fried to perfection and served traditional or coated in your favorite sauce. The chicken wrap is another excellent choice and is made with fried chicken, black beans, tomato, onion, fresh greens, and shredded cheese. You can also pass the children's menu to your kids so they can order the crispy chicken sliders. Cumberland Biscuit Company If you wish to start your day with some fried chicken, Cumberland Biscuit Company is the place to go. Popular menu options at this restaurant in McMinnville include the fried chicken biscuit, chicken and waffles, fried chicken burger, and fried chicken smothered in gravy and served with two eggs, home fries or grits, and a biscuit or toast. Don't worry if you get a late start to your day; the restaurant has you covered with its brunch servings. The Southern Eatery The Southern Eatery in Morrison is a small and simple eatery that dishes out fresh Southern staples, such as fried pork chop, country ham, sweet potato casserole, fried catfish, and country-fried steak. The fried chicken is also a popular dish and usually served with sides that include french fries, tater tots, and green beans. Don't forget to save room for one of the freshly baked desserts, especially the popular choices like chocolate cake and lemon meringue pie. Each time you're in the mood for some tasty fried chicken, you'll find what you want when you visit these local eateries in and around Morrison. Image via pixabay.com

There are few natural sceneries that are quite as spectacular as the chromatic beauty of autumn leaves. As nature prepares for winter, people use the last days of warm temperatures to soak up the natural landscape. Those living in or around Warren County, Tennessee, are blessed with a multitude of breathtakingly beautiful places where they can admire the fall foliage. Collins River Nature Trail Collins River is only a few miles to the East of Warren County and its banks are filled with wonderful displays of natural beauty. The best place along the bank to admire the autumn landscape is along the exterior edges of the Collins River peninsula, with a three-mile trail that will help hikers discover the local fauna and flora. Aside from the many trees shedding their leaves, visitors will also encounter a wide variety of wildflowers, as well as white-head deer and woodpeckers. The trail has a few challenging areas for experienced hikers but is still accessible enough for first-timers. more Dottie West Park The great thing about Warren County is that you don't even have to leave town to experience the best of what autumn has to offer. Dottie West Park is located In McMinnville and has many urban attractions, such as a pool, gym, and the McMinnville Civic Center, a 4,800-seater multipurpose arena that regularly hosts various events, such as sports competitions and concerts. West Elementary School is also right next to the park. Although it's not a park that impresses with its size, it being close to town means that locals can enjoy its beauty even on a quick lunch break. McMinnville Country Club If your idea of enjoying nature involves a game of golf, this is the perfect place in the area for you. This elegant country club features an 18-hole golf course and driving range, giving you the perfect place to escape the city and to reconnect with nature, either practicing your swing or enjoying a game with friends. Guests also have access to a swimming pool and can also enjoy a delicious meal and drinks from the club's restaurant and bar. Rock Island State Rustic Park This 883-acre park is home to many incredible natural landscapes and will leave a long-lasting impression on any nature lover. Aside from the beautiful autumn foliage that can be observed anywhere around the park, it also features two natural waterfalls. The Great Falls Gorge is located near the Great Falls dam and consists of a series of waterfalls that can be observed when the river levels are low and the Twin Falls are a cascade waterfall that was created as a result of the river rising when the dam was erected. Autumn is a bittersweet season. On one hand, you are energized by the warm months of summer, but you are also observing nature's transition to the cold winter. Luckily, this transition produces amazing sights and colors and by visiting any of these landmarks you will be creating memories strong enough to last until spring. Image via pexels.com

When the craving for pizza and Italian food hits, you'll have plenty of options in the Morrison, Tennessee, area. Bring your appetite to any of these amazing pizzerias and enjoy a tasty meal and the delightful aromas that are such an important part of Italian cuisine. Viola's Pizza Company Just 6 miles from Morrison, you'll find Viola's Pizza Company. This family-owned pizza place uses only the finest of ingredients. They make their own tomato sauce and hand-crafted dough that takes three days to make. Before having your pizza, enjoy hot, fresh garlic knots, which is a style of garlic bread, or a crisp, refreshing salad. Build your own pizza with a variety of toppings or choose one of Viola's signature pizzas. Save room for a chocolate chip cookie or cinnamon roll for dessert. more In/Out Pizza Pizza isn't just for lunch or dinner at In/Out Pizza. The chefs make tasty dessert pizzas like the chocolate chip or banana pudding pizza to satisfy your sweet tooth. All pizza crusts come in either thin or hand-tossed versions, and you can either build your own pizza or enjoy one of In/Out Pizza's specialty ones. On the menu, you'll also find a variety of appetizers, calzones, pasta, and sandwiches. Nico's Family Restaurant You can find something for everyone at Nico's Family Restaurant. About 5 miles from the heart of Morrison, this family-owned restaurant has an extensive menu that features everything from appetizers to salads and pizza to rib-eye steak dinners. Nico's is open for lunch or dinner and they even have a special kid's menu for the little ones. To satisfy your sweet tooth, try a slice of cake, cheesecake, or a piece of delectable baklava. Spinelli's Pizzeria Over in Tullahoma, you'll find Spinelli's Pizzeria. You won't find fast food pizzas here, each one is handmade with the utmost care, fine ingredients, and the slices are big and hearty. Spinelli's specializes in East Coast-style pizzas that feature hand-tossed dough, rich tomato sauce, luscious mozzarella cheese, white sauces with garlic, or zesty pesto sauce. Enjoy an appetizer like cheese fries or a refreshing salad before moving on to your main meal. Have a classic pizza, like cheese or pepperoni, or sample one of Spinelli's creative, specialty pizzas, like the loaded baked potato or buffalo chicken pizza. For something different, have a meatball parmesan or Caprese sandwich. Save room for dessert and try the fried Oreo cookie or sweet cannoli. Paco's Pizza and Pasta Take a drive out near Manchester and go to Paco's Pizza and Pasta. When you're waiting for your main meal, sample one of their appetizers or a crisp salad. Choose from a variety of baked pasta dishes, hot sandwiches, calzones, or any of their fabulous pizzas. Build your own masterpiece, or indulge in one of Paco's signature pizzas, like the Greek, Sicilian, or Grandma's. We hope you enjoy eating at these tasty pizza places around Morrison. If you have a favorite one or can recommend any others, we would love to hear from you. Image via pexels.com

Fried chicken is one of the staples of Southern fare, and finding a place that makes fried chicken the way you like it is a must. Learn about some of the finger-licking-good eateries in Morrison, Tennessee, that offer crispy, juicy, and delicious fried chicken. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify current state of operations by contacting the businesses directly. 1. Prater's Bar-B-Que & Catering Fried chicken is a popular menu item at Prater's Bar-B-Que & Catering, a down-home restaurant with a location at 9576 Manchester Highway in Morrison. The kitchen team prepares the chicken tenders with a flavorful batter and deep-fries them until they're crispy on the outside. You can order a tender plate, served with your choice of sides, or single tenders to pair with other items on the menu. The chicken tenders family pack includes 16 crispy tenders, two pint-sized sides, and rolls. You can choose from ranch beans, coleslaw, and potato salad for your sides. If you're dining in, additional side choices include french and sweet potato fries, baked sweet and regular potatoes, and side salads. If others in your dining party want other menu options, they can sample the brisket, specialty smoked meats, steak, or barbecue pork. The sample platter includes a little of everything, including meats and sides. more 2. Medley's Diner Medley's Diner, at 7783 Manchester Highway, serves tasty fried chicken alongside many other menu options. This establishment provides traditional home cooking with Southern recipes and fresh ingredients. You can get fried chicken with side dishes, on a sandwich, or as a salad topping. The chicken strips dinner comes with your choice of onion rings or fries, salad or slaw, grilled bread or a roll, and a drink. The fried chicken sandwich is piled high with juicy, crispy chicken pieces and other complementary toppings. Medley's Diner also serves hot wings. For children who love fried chicken, the children's chicken strips dinner is a great option and comes with a drink and a side of tater tots or fries. You can also finish your meal with something sweet, such as ice cream or a creamy milkshake. 3. Davy Crockett Restaurant Davy Crockett Restaurant, at 3282 E. Morris Blvd., serves a range of options, including several dishes that feature crispy, golden fried chicken. You can start your meal with an order of chicken “fryz,” thin strips of breaded and fried chicken. The fried chicken salad is another house favorite that features a bed of fresh garden greens topped with fried chicken strips and your choice of dressing. Golden-fried chicken tenderloins are also available as an entree, and the platter comes with your choice of three sides. Choose from options such as okra, onion rings, cottage cheese, pinto or green beans, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, french fries, baked apples, and banana pudding. The children's menu also includes an option of three chicken tenders and a side dish. Instead of trying to make fried chicken yourself, head to one of the above Morrison establishments that will make it for you. When dining at each restaurant, you can enjoy traditional cooking and a welcoming atmosphere. Image via pixabay.com

At the end of a long day, it's nice to enjoy a good craft beer. Fortunately for Morrison locals, several breweries within driving distance can satisfy those cravings. One might even become your new go-to spot for kicking back and relaxing with friends. Depot Bottom Brewery Located about 15 minutes from Morrison in McMinnville, Depot Bottom Brewery is a small, downtown craft brewery that's big on flavor. The brewery's taprooms feature in-house brews as well as supplies you can purchase to try making your own craft brews at home. If you're serious enough, the brewery offers classes to teach you everything from brewing basics to developing your own craft beer masterpieces. While Depot Bottom Brewery doesn't serve food, a food truck often provides meals outside. You're also welcome to order food delivery. The staff is always super friendly and laid-back, and they encourage you to feel at home. more Hop Springs If you don't mind driving toward Murfreesboro, Hop Springs is a fun destination worth experiencing with the whole family. Located on John Bragg Highway, Hop Springs features a beer drive-thru, beer truck delivery, disc golf, a running trail, a dog park, on-site catering, and (of course) a brewery. Since 2017, Hop Springs has been producing Steel Barrel beers in conjunction with Middle Tennessee State University's fermentation science degree program. Offerings include Americana pale ale, Frost crushable ale, Raider IPA, Spree Berliner Weisse, Derrick export stout, Johnny Red American-style Scottish ale, and Crockett lager. The brewery has other ventures, as well. The Humulus Project offers bold, experimental IPAs such as the Rethink New England-style IPA. Mantra has a distinctive beer portfolio consisting of both seasonal and year-round bottles as well as limited releases. Currently, Hop Springs is home to two taprooms: Mantra Taproom and Steel Barrel Taproom. Common John Brewing Co. Humble, hardworking, and proud of its blue-collar roots, Common John Brewing Co. is passionate about good, refreshing beer. The company got its start in a small shop with friends listening to music and experimenting with craft brews. Today, those humble beginnings have led to high-quality craft beer and an approachable atmosphere that feels like coming home. With the company gearing up to open its state-of-the-art brewery in Manchester, Tennessee, Common John Brewing Co. is sure to be a welcome addition for both casual beer drinkers and hops enthusiasts. Ole Shed Brewing Company Located in Tullahoma, Ole Shed Brewing Company has been an oasis for lovers of unassuming domestic lagers, craft beers, and artisan ales since 2011. The brewery features a taproom where you can unwind with a Honey Do golden ale, a Haystack IPA, a Tenniskey porter, or a variety of other favorite brews. Ole Shed Brewing Company also hosts lively events such as a popular cornhole tournament, a food truck rally, and an acoustic music showcase. Between the delicious brews and friendly atmosphere, you'll never want to leave. With so many great breweries within easy driving distance of Morrison, why not cozy up to a nice craft beer this weekend? Image via pexels.com

Looking for the perfect brunch spot in the Morrison, TN area? Check out one of these three spots for your next weekend brunch! And although we all may be cooped up inside because of COVID-19, here are some great ideas when everything goes back to the way it was. Cumberland Biscuit Company Located in picturesque downtown McMinnville, Cumberland Biscuit Company specializes in warm, fluffy biscuits and Southern classics. It's one of the few restaurants in the area that serves French Quarter beignets, chocolate gravy, crab cakes, and loaded home fries. Go-to brunch favorites include country biscuits and gravy, Florentine eggs benedict, grilled pimento cheese and tomato on Texas toast, and fresh waffles stuffed with breakfast meat. You'll also love the brunch burger, a 1/3-pound beef patty topped with a fried egg, cheddar cheese, bacon, grilled onions, and spicy mayo. As if all this isn't enough to satisfy the biggest appetite, Cumberland Biscuit Company also serves generous breakfast platters. Local favorites include chicken and waffles, crab cakes and eggs, fried chicken smothered in gravy, and the iconic griddle breakfast with eggs, home fries, sausage, and pancakes. more Coffee Cafe This homestyle cafe in nearby Manchester offers American plates, coffee, beer, and wine in a cozy setting. The cafe has limited hours, but it's a hidden gem that's worth making your go-to brunch spot. Start with a delicious sandwich on sourdough, Texas toast, wheatberry, marble rye, white, or jalapeno bread. Choose from the classic BLT, chicken or tuna salad, turkey club, ham and cheese, or grilled cheese and bacon and tomato. You can also opt for the half sandwich and cup of soup special or order a side of homemade chips, potato salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, or tomato-cucumber salad. Additional menu items include fresh wraps, hot sandwiches, salads, breakfast platters, lunch plates, and burgers. Be sure to save room for dessert — the assorted cakes, pies, cookies, and pastries are a must. Bites of Europe Another great brunch spot in Manchester is Bites of Europe. This scratch-made, European-style kitchen is part French bakery and English pub, bringing a unique dining experience to Middle Tennessee. The restaurant even has outdoor dining and entertainment, including bingo, trivia, and live music. Menu items vary by season but typically consist of Bavarian pretzels, German potato salad, schnitzel sandwich, grilled bratwurst, wagyu burger, and fish and chips with green peas. Aside from the impressive menu, Bites of Europe also boasts a varied draft and bottled beer selection. If you're looking for an imported bottled stout you encountered on a trip to Europe, you could very well find it here. Finally, Bites of Europe's traditional European bakery is as diverse as the countries of its inspiration. Expect fresh bread baked daily as well as dark chocolate eclairs, French lemon tarts, tiramisu, apple strudel, chocolate truffle cake, and daily homemade ice cream. You'll also love the traditional Italian panna cotta desserts and the top-rated creme brulee. Whichever dessert you choose, you won't be disappointed. Make the most of your next get-together by savoring brunch at one of these local spots. With so many great options, you'll look forward to brunch every week. Image via pexels.com

Summer wouldn't be complete without a camping trip and Morrison, Tennessee, has a few great places where you can spend your nights under the stars. And although we all may be cooped up inside because of COVID-19, here are some camping ideas when everything goes back to the way it was. Sassy Springs Retreat Sassy Springs Retreat is an ideal getaway for those who want to camp, but who could do without the bugs or hard sleeping conditions on the ground? Things at Sassy Springs are cozy and luxurious. You can enjoy a camping trip in your personal yurt or enjoy some family time on your wooden deck. Many of the yurts also come with luxury beds, heat, air conditioning, and even an over-sized tub. This campsite is also in a good location, just a short walk to the Cumberland Caverns and the Collins. You can also spend time getting to know other campers in the community kitchen area or watch a movie together at the community center. more Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park offers both entertainment and education when camping. Hike among the Old Stone Fort, a prehistoric native building, and get to know the history and nature of the area. Campers here also enjoy fishing. The local lakes and streams are well-stocked with Largemouth Bass and Bream. You can also hike to the waterfalls, where you will definitely want to have your camera to capture this breathtaking view. This campground is a great location if you prefer to be secluded when camping. Each campsite is separated by a large, wooded area that offers plenty of shade and peace and quiet. You can pitch a tent or hook up your RV for an easy camping adventure. Machester KOA Visit the Manchester KOA if you want to camp among the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Hook up your RV or rent a cabin for the weekend, either way, you will be just a few minutes from the best outdoor recreation in Tennessee. The campground offers all your favorite camping amenities including cable TV, mini-golf, an on-site pool, and a Kamping Kitchen. Kids will enjoy the outdoor bowling lane and the mini spray park. The campsite also often hosts entertaining events like horse carriage rides. The Manchester KOA is also a great option for long-term camping. South Cumberland State Park South Cumberland State Park is one of the most popular destinations for outdoor recreation in all of Tennessee. The large park spans across four different counties and consists of over 30,000-acres of land to view. Bring your hiking boots as you will definitely want to check out the over 12-miles of trails that take you through the deep local nature. More advanced of hikers often work their way toward the impressive views at the Great Stone Door, a cliff that overlooks the park and gulf. Bring your tent or hook up your small trailer at the on-site campground, the Foster Falls Campground. Tennessee is full of outdoor beauty to enjoy. Whether your idea of camping includes a rustic tent out in the woods or an upscale, five-star experience, with all your favorite amenities, they have a little something for every camper. Image via pexels.com

You can't pass through Tennessee without stopping at a great hometown barbecue joint. The following are a few of the best barbecues near Morrison, Tennessee. Prater's BBQ Locals consider Prater's BBQ to be the best place for barbecue in the South. Whether you're looking to cater an event or are simply craving a half-rack of ribs, Prater's is the place to go. Every item on their menu is made from scratch, so you know you'll be enjoying high quality southern barbecue. Every year, Prater's joins other vendors at the Bonnaroo Music Festival in Manchester, Tennessee. Rolling Stone Magazine voted Prater's as the number one thing to do while at the festival, so you know the food must be good. From ribeye steaks to catfish and hand-battered fried chicken, you'll enjoy Prater's delicious and affordable menu. more Collins River BBQ & Cafe Collin's River BBQ & Cafe is located just 15 minutes from Morrison in the heart of McMinnville. Locals enjoy this sweet little cafe for its tasty food, craft beers, welcoming environment, and live music. Their menu offers classic pulled pork and smoked wings. A couple favorites include their baby back ribs that are double basted with barbecue sauce and local honey and the brisket wrap with black beans, onion, fresh greens, tomato, and cheese with your choice of dressing. The wrap is served on either a jalapeno cheddar wrap or a wheat wrap. High Roller Smokers BBQ & Catering High Roller Smokers BBQ & Catering isn't you're standard barbecue joint. Its business is primarily focused on catering- from weddings to birthday parties and work functions, they're happy to serve wherever they're needed. If you're looking for a quick bite, you can check out their High Roller Smokers Bar-B-Que Trailer that's parked at the local Plaza Shopping Center on Thursdays and Fridays. It's only open for lunch from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, so make you sure you catch them while they're there. Their menu includes pulled pork plates, pulled pork nachos, BBQ stuffed potatoes, organic grilled chicken salads, baby back ribs, beef brisket, and a pulled chicken sandwich. Piggy's Place Bar-B-Que Piggy's Place Bar-B-Que is a local favorite that has been family owned and operated since 1980. For more than 30 years, they've prided themselves in offering fantastic food and delicious desserts. You can dine-in, carry-out, or even opt for delivery when available. If you're looking for some great food that won't break the bank, you'll want to check out their daily specials menu. If you visit on a Saturday, you'll enjoy their Loaded BBQ Potato with a drink for under $6. Whiskey Trail BBQ & Steakhouse Just 30 minutes from Morrison, in Tullahoma, Tennessee, is Whiskey Trail BBQ & Steakhouse. Whiskey Trail combines the idea of a family steakhouse with the touch of southern barbecue. Their menu includes your usual steakhouse dishes as well as tender smoked meats like their hickory smoked pulled pork and slow-smoked pulled to order chicken. Whether you're a long-time fan of barbecue or new to the southern style, make sure you stop and check out at least one of these awesome joints around Morrison, Tennessee. Image via pixabay.com

When you get a craving for some delicious sushi, you don't have to travel too far from Morrison, Tennessee, to satisfy your appetite. Here are some of the best sushi restaurants just a short drive away. Saki Saki is located on Smithville Highway in McMinnville and offers a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and attentive service. The bar serves tea, coffee, soda, and a selection of beer, but if you want to drink wine you will want to bring your own. The restaurant will provide the wine glasses. You can choose appetizers from the kitchen or from the sushi bar. Sushi bar appetizers include octopus su, rainbow naruto, sushi pizza, sashimi, and sexy jalapeno. They also offer a good selection of soups and salads. The sushi rolls feature items like the eel avocado roll, futomaki with crab meat, spider roll, spicy tuna, and rainbow roll. You can also choose from raw and cooked special rolls and a range of traditional entrees. more Yamato Family-owned and operated, Yamato on Hillsboro Boulevard in Manchester is a Japanese steak house serving sushi and hibachi-style grilled dishes. The restaurant is simply but nicely decorated and has a relaxed ambience. On the menu, you can choose from appetizers such as edamame, gyoza fried dumplings, shumai steamed shrimp dumplings, crab rangoon, and yaki soba stir fried noodles with beef, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. From the special sushi rolls, the spicy girl and Pikachu roll are particularly recommended. Sushi dinners mix a variety of rolls served with miso soup and salad, or you can select one of the popular hibachi or bento dinners. If you're there at lunchtime, check out the lunch specials and the bento lunches. Love Thai Sushi A little further away on Epps Mill Road in Christiana is Love Thai Sushi, which is well worth the longer trip. The family run restaurant is laid out cafeteria-style and has pretty basic decor, but the welcome is warm and the food is superb. For starters, you can choose from dishes like baby octopus, baked mussels, seaweed salad, and takoyaki. Maki rolls include the Hamachi with yellowtail and green onion, tekka with tuna and avocado, and spicy crab, salmon, or tuna. Nigiri and sashimi can be served with shrimp, surf clam, mackerel, salmon, white tuna, and more, while the special rolls feature spider, dragon, rainbow, beauty on the beach, dancing tuna, and the volcano roll. Ming's Buffet & Grill Back in McMinnville, Ming's Buffet & Grill on Smithville Highway is a tastefully decorated restaurant featuring stylish lighting effects over the buffet counters. While Ming's specializes in buffet-style dining, the sushi rolls include eel, salmon, crab stick, egg, shrimp, and sweet tofu. House special rolls include the Mexican, American dream, Rainbow, and the T.G.I.F. roll with crab meat, avocado, eel, cucumber, and eel sauce. Among the hand rolls are the California, Alaska, Boston, spicy salmon, and the Japanese bagel roll. Considering how far Morrison is from the ocean, these locations offer some great sushi to satisfy your craving. Image via pexels.com

The Morrison, Tennessee, area has a rich history worth exploring. The best way to truly get to know a place is by diving into its history, especially by visiting its important historical sites. If you're planning your springtime adventures, make sure you stop at these historic sites in the area. Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens Head over to McMinnville to explore the Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens. This mansion was built in 1896 as the home for the owner of the "Gorilla Pants" factory in town. Clay Faulkner and his wife lived in the 10,000-square-foot home they built with all the modern conveniences of its time. Now, it's a great place for visitors who want to explore what life was like for the upper crust in the earliest years of the 20th century. Tickets to the museum are $13 for adults and $7 for children 12 and younger. You'll get a guided tour of the mansion, as well as the opportunity to stroll through the manicured gardens around it. more Cumberland Caverns If you're looking for a tour of the area's natural history, head to the Cumberland Caverns. The nearly 30 miles of caves and passageways of the Cumberland Caverns let you see a great many geological features, including rock formations, underground waterfalls, pools, and more. This is a great destination if you're trying to find something interesting to do with kids. Admission to the daytime walking tour is $13.95 for children 6-12 and $21.95 for adults. It includes a guided 1.5- to 2-hour, 1.5-mile walking tour with a guide who explains the history behind the many rooms you can explore in the caves. The Black House The oldest standing residential home in McMinnville is the Black House. It was built in 1825 and is now a museum that lets visitors dive into the pre-Civil War history of the area. Its Federal-style architecture was popular at the time and many of the now-gone houses that lined the streets of McMinnville were built similarly. This building was home to a Revolutionary War soldier, a friend of President Polk, and a Confederate surgeon until it fell into disuse. It has now been restored, complete with period-specific furnishings. Tours of the museum are given out by appointment only. Call Jeanette Lowery at 931-668-5050 to schedule your tour. Southern Museum & Galleries If you want to take a crash course in the history of the area and see local photography, visit the Southern Museum & Galleries. The gallery is mainly dedicated to the work of photographer, artist, author, and historian Monty Wanamaker, who helped capture the essence of what made the area the place it is today. Wanamaker, who passed away in 2018, was prolific in his work to collect and create items that displayed McMinnville's and Tennessee's heritage. Give yourself enough time to explore all the historically significant areas our part of Tennessee has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned history buff or you just want to experience a little bit of the way things used to be, these sites are all worth a visit. Image via pixabay.com

No matter how cozy and comfortable our lives get, many of us have a strong need to go on an adventure from time to time. Those living in or around Morrison, Tennessee, don't have to go very far in order to find new and exciting activities to take them out of the boring daily routine. Here are some of the most exciting. Cumberland Caverns Located less than a half-hour drive east of Morrison, the Cumberland Caverns the ideal spot for an unforgettable adventure. The daily walking tours are great opportunities to fully discover the cave, and you'll be assisted by knowledgeable guides who will lead you through all the attractions. Inside the cave, you'll discover amazing places, such as a saltpeter mine from 1812 and a breathtaking underground waterfall. The best way to fully experience what the cave has to offer is by staying overnight with the Caveman Campouts package. The cave is also home to the Volcano Room, an unlikely but unique live music venue 333 feet below the surface. Over the years, it has hosted a wide variety of great musical performances by artists from many different musical genres. Ocoee Outdoors If you're more into outdoor adventures, a rafting trip with Ocee Outdoors is sure to raise your adrenaline level and offer you experiences you'll remember for a long time. The Ocoee River is considered to be the best rafting river in the entire United States, and it has been a venue for guided raft trips for more than four decades. It was even the location for the 1996 Olympic whitewater events. The river features 11 miles of heart-pumping action. more The river's power makes rafting a potentially dangerous adventure, but the experienced staff always makes sure everyone is as safe and as well-informed as possible. If navigating down turbulent rapids is not enough of a thrill for you, zip lines are available throughout the river, offering some variety to adventurers. Outdoor Gravity Park Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, near the Smoky Mountains, Outdoor Gravity Park features an adventure that was born in New Zealand and is increasingly popular all over the world: zorbing. Adventurers will be placed inside an 11-foot transparent plastic sphere and thrown down a 1,000-foot hill, resulting in a thrilling ride they're sure to remember for quite a while. Up to three people can fit inside the sphere, making it easy to share the adventure with your friends. Zorbing is not dangerous, although it may look that way, so it's available for anyone over the age of 5. It's open in all weather conditions and doesn't require a reservation, although booking a spot online will get you a discount. People have always had a sense of and a need for adventure in their lives, and modern technology hasn't managed to erase that. We want adventures that are special and unique but also safe enough so they can be experienced with the entire family. Luckily for the people of Morrison, any of these breathtaking adventure spots are just a short drive away. Image via Flickr by pocketwiley used under CC By

As we all get more and more attached to technology and detached from nature, there's nothing like a hike to help you get reacquainted with the great outdoors. Luckily for the people living in or around Morrison, Kentucky, you have plenty of amazing trails to choose from. Here are some of the best. Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park Just a quick 20-minute drive southwest of Morrison, Old Stone Fort Archaelogical Park has one of the most fascinating hiking trails in the entire state. The Old Stone Fort was built around 2,000 years ago by ancient Native Americans and used continuously for about 500 years before being abandoned. When it was found by European settlers, they couldn't quite figure out what it was used for, so they called it a fort. In 1966, the fort was purchased by the state of Tennessee, and the park was born. Its main hiking trail offers a trip back in time, which helps the hiker get a better understanding of the continent's long history. It follows the walls of the Old Stone Fort, passing former Native American ceremonial gathering places, including the fort's original entrance, which was built to face the exact place where the sun rises during the summer solstice. Panels, replicas, and photos that include information about ancient Native Americans are ever-present, giving the hiker a glimpse of how life used to be around in the Morrison area. more Rock Island State Park The 883-acre Rock Island State Park is located at the meeting point of the Caney Fork, Collins, and Rocky rivers and offers some absolutely breathtaking views. That includes the Great Falls, a 30-foot waterfall that was used to power a cotton textile mill over a century ago. The area became a park 50 years ago and quickly became one of the best destinations around for hikers, swimmers, or fishers. If you decide to stay overnight during your hiking trip, you can use any of the park's 10 gorgeous and well-equipped cabins, open all year round. There are also campsites where visitors can park their trailers and RV or set up their tents. Savage Gulf Natural Area The 15,590-acre Savage Gulf Natural Area features over 50 miles of hiking trails of various difficulty, making it a great hiking spot for beginners and veterans alike. Visitors will be treated to some fantastic views, from steep ledges to beautiful waterfalls. The most popular hiking trail is the Big Creek Rim Trail, with 6 miles of difficult terrain and fantastic views. The Tennessee State Parks department manages and operates the area, which has picnic and camping areas as well as a visitor center where hikers can get trail maps. From old Native American structures to incredible waterfalls, locals and visitors in Morrison are blessed with a great variety of landmarks to discover on their hikes. Experienced hikers will find new challenges, while those who are just getting into this hobby will certainly discover what the fuss is all about. So grab your friends or family, get your hiking gear, and head over to any of these amazing locations, all of them just a short drive away. Image via Flickr by Phil Horton used under CC By