What comes to mind when you think of Cookeville, Tennessee? Maybe it’s the majestic mountains or the picturesque rivers that surround this charming city.
Whatever your opinion, there’s no doubt that Cookeville is a great place to visit.
The city is blessed with a rich history, unique attractions, and plenty of things to do.
To help you out, I’ve compiled a list of the 21 best and fun things to do in Cookeville, Tennessee.
Things To Do In Cookeville Tennessee
1. Explore the Great Outdoors at Cummins Falls State Park
Cummins Falls State Park is one of the most popular outdoor destinations for nature lovers in Cookeville.
With its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, this park is ideal for a romantic picnic or a day of exploration.
The park’s main highlight is Cummins Falls, a spectacular 75-foot cascading waterfall that tumbles over ancient shale and limestone.
Visitors can admire the beauty of the falls from a viewing platform and also take part in activities such as swimming and picnicking.
The park also has a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult.
The trails lead visitors through a variety of scenic views and wildlife, making it the perfect spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Address: 390 Cummins Falls Rd, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
2. Tour the Cookeville Depot Museum
The Cookeville Depot Museum is an excellent place to visit for those interested in learning more about the railway history of Cookeville.
The museum is housed in the original Cookeville train depot, built in 1909.
The museum features exhibits that showcase the history of Cookeville’s railway system during its heyday.
It features a large collection of artifacts related to the city’s railway history, such as Tennessee Central Railway artifacts, Cookeville replicas, dioramas, and much more.
Some of the highlights of the museum include a Baldwin steam engine from 1912, track cars, the Red Caboose from 1920, and a caboose from the 1960s.
Guided tours are available, and they are a fun way to learn more about Cookeville’s rich railroad history.
Admission to the Cookeville Depot Museum is free, which makes it one of the best things to do in Cookeville if you’re looking for some budget-friendly activities.
Address: 116 W Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
3. Explore the Cookeville History Museum
The Cookeville History Museum is a great place to learn more about Tennessee’s history and the city of Cookeville.
It houses a large variety of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Putnam County and Cookeville’s past.
The museum offers interactive displays, guided tours, and occasional special exhibits focusing on Cookeville’s history.
This is a great option for locals and tourists who are interested in learning more about the city’s past.
The staffs here are friendly and knowledgeable, so be sure to ask them any questions you may have while exploring the museum.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Cookeville History Museum also hosts a number of events throughout the year for visitors to enjoy.
From lectures and book signings to family days and more, this is a great spot in Cookeville to spend the day.
Address: 40 E Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
4. Have a Picnic at Dogwood Park
Dogwood Park is a beautiful park located in Cookeville, and it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon with family and friends.
It offers a great opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones amid the lush greenery and scenic trails.
The park features picnic shelters, a rose garden, benches, beautiful walking trails, and a water park perfect for summer.
Moreover, there are plenty of things to do here for the whole family. You can have a picnic, go for a hike, and also enjoy the breathtaking views of Dogwood Park.
Dogwood Park is open all year round and provides ample opportunities for visitors to get out in the fresh air and admire nature.
Address: 30 E Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
5. Go Camping at Old Mill Camp
Old Mill Camp is one of the most popular spots in Cookeville for campers and RV enthusiasts.
This family-friendly campground offers a variety of sites, including tent pitches and RV hookups.
This means that you can stay here for a few days to a week and enjoy all the best Cookeville attractions.
The campground also features a plethora of amenities for its visitors, including a playground, a front porch stage, a swing set, and much more.
There are also many picnic tables and fire pits for visitors to enjoy a relaxing evening.
The ground is also very well maintained, and the staffs are friendly and helpful.
Old Mill Camp is also located near Cummins Falls State Park, which is a great spot for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and bird-watching.
So you can combine your camping trip with a day of exploring the park.
Address: 4801 Blackburn Fork Road, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
6. Have fun at Hidden Hollow Park
Next on this list of the best things to do in Cookeville is a visit to Hidden Hollow Park, a great spot for family entertainment.
This park was initially a tobacco, corn, and cattle farm, but was later turned into a recreational park.
Today, this park is the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy some outdoor activities with their families, friends, or loved ones.
The park features a petting zoo, picnic areas, a swimming pool, volleyball courts, fishing ponds, and several playgrounds.
There are also several walking trails and biking paths that are perfect if you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll or get some exercise.
And besides all the things to do, the park also has a number of amenities, such as restrooms and a snack bar.
Address: 1901 Mt Pleasant Rd, Cookeville, TN 38506, United States.
7. Go on a Nature Walk at Burgess Falls State Park
Burgess Falls State Park is one of Cookeville’s best nature parks, and it is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy a peaceful nature walk or hike.
This park is known for its spectacular scenery of crashing waterfalls, lush forests, and breathtaking views.
You can visit the park any time of the day and explore its rugged terrain, which is filled with miles of trails.
From easy walking paths to more challenging hikes, there are plenty of trails to choose from.
I suggest wearing sturdy shoes and bringing plenty of water so that you can enjoy your stroll in the park.
The park also has a number of picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for a family outing or romantic picnic.
And, of course, you can also venture out to the park’s overlook points and take in the stunning sights of Burgess Falls.
Address: 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583, United States.
8. Catch a Show at the Cookeville Performing Arts Center
The Cookeville Performing Arts Center (CPAC) is an impressive venue for performing arts and culture in Cookeville.
This theater has hosted a number of acclaimed concerts, plays, and dance performances over the years.
CPAC features three different theaters that can accommodate up to 456 audience members for music, theater, and dance performances.
It also has a spacious lobby, which is perfect for pre-show gatherings.
The atmosphere here is always upbeat and vibrant, making it an ideal spot for date nights or special family outings.
And with its state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, CPAC provides the perfect platform for talented performers to showcase their art.
So make sure to check out the upcoming events at CPAC before your visit so that you can enjoy the best of Cookeville’s performing arts scene.
Address: 10 E Broad St #3285, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
9. Shop till You Drop at the Market on the Square
The Market on the Square is one of Cookeville’s most popular shopping spots.
This multi-level retail center offers a great selection of products ranging from apparel and jewelry to home goods and decorations.
This means that whatever you’re in the Market for, you’ll likely find it here.
The Market on the Square is also home to a variety of restaurants, as well as a few local shops offering unique items and handmade arts & crafts.
You can also find great deals and discounts in the mall’s many shops.
The Market on the Square is also a great spot for people-watching or just enjoying some downtime in Cookeville.
With plenty of things to see and do, this is an ideal place to spend an afternoon.
Therefore, when you’re looking for things to do in Cookeville, TN, make sure to check out the Market on the Square.
You’re sure to find something that will catch your eye.
Address: 6 N Jefferson Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
10. Take in the Beautiful Views at Cane Creek Park
If you’re looking for Cookeville attractions that offer a more tranquil experience, the Cane Creek Conservation Area & Nature Preserve is an ideal spot.
This 262-acre park is home to abundant wildlife, lush forests, and beautiful views of Cane Creek Lake.
This is a great place for outdoor adventures such as camping, fishing, boating, and hiking.
You can also explore its many trails winding through the park and its scenic terrain.
The park also features an 18-hole disc golf course, five playgrounds, three picnic shelters, two fishing piers, a mountain bike trail, pollinator fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and picnic tables with charcoal grills.
All these things make Cane Creek Conservation Area & Nature Preserve one of Cookeville’s best attractions for outdoor enthusiasts.
So be sure to check it out when you’re in town!
Address: 201 C C Camp Rd, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
11. Shop at Cookeville Antique Mall
Cookeville Antique Mall is a great spot to find some unique and interesting things in Cookeville.
This multi-vendor antique mall, with over 9000 square feet of retail space, is filled with a wide selection of antiques, vintage items, and collectibles from all over the world.
You can find things from furniture and lighting to jewelry, books, toys, clothing, and more.
These antiques are all reasonably priced, so you can find some great items at a fraction of their original value.
Most visitors to this mall come to find things for their home or just for a unique souvenir.
The vendors are always friendly and always willing to answer any questions you may have.
Address: 402 Dubois Rd, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
12. Enjoy Tasty Treats at Cream City Ice Cream & Coffee House
Cream City Ice Cream & Coffee House is a popular spot for those looking for a sweet treat in Cookeville, Tennessee.
They offer more than 40 flavors of ice cream as well as locally roasted coffee, hot chocolate, and other desserts.
This cozy little shop is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and just relax.
You can enjoy the tasty treats with your friends or family, chat with the friendly staff, or just sit back and people-watch.
Address: 119 W Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
13. Relax With a Spa Day at Glow Skincare and Wellness Spa
If you’re looking for a bit of relaxation and pampering on your trip to Cookeville, then Glow Skin Care, and Wellness is the perfect spot for you!
This spa offers a number of services, such as facial treatments, massage therapy, and more.
They also provide a variety of organic spa treatments and products to help you look and feel your best.
Glow Skin Care and Wellness Spa strives to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy much-needed relaxation.
Their expert staff is always happy to answer any questions you may have, and they will make sure your spa day is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
So choose a spa day and take some time to relax and rejuvenate. After all, this is one of the cool things to do in Cookeville to really enjoy some “me time”!
Address: 39 W 1st St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
14. Take a Scenic Drive Through the Cumberland Plateau
The Cumberland Plateau is a scenic and rugged area in Tennessee, stretching from northern Alabama to Kentucky.
This area is full of winding roads, breathtaking views, and small towns that are perfect for exploring.
Take a leisurely drive along the plateau, and you’ll find some unique things to explore.
Stop by Ozone Falls State Natural Area to admire the stunning waterfalls, or visit any of the small towns in the area for a bite to eat.
You also pass some small towns with interesting things to explore and discover. In addition, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities, such as cycling, hiking, and bird-watching.
So make sure to pack your camera and capture some of the breathtaking views along the way.
Remember to plan your route before you head out so that you can make the most of your trip.
15. Indulge in Shopping at Cookeville Farmer’s Market
The Cookeville Farmer’s Market is the ideal spot for food and shopping lovers.
It takes place every day from 6 am to 6 pm and offers a wide variety of things to buy, from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts.
Their prices are affordable, and the quality of the items is top-notch.
Additionally, the Market provides an excellent opportunity for tourists to interact with the locals and learn about their culture.
Address: 530 Mahler Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
16. Tour the Tennessee Legend Distillery at Maddux Place
Do you enjoy whiskey, vodka, and other spirits? If yes, why not make a trip to the Tennessee Legend Distillery at Maddux Place?
Located on Cookeville’s historic downtown square, this distillery offers a unique experience for visitors.
Here, you’ll learn about the process of making whiskey and vodka, as well as the history of this craft.
You can also take part in a tasting session and sample some of the spirits produced here. I loved their cinnamon and salted caramel vodka flavors, which were very nice.
After tasting, you can take a bottle of your favorite spirit to take home as well. Their prices are very reasonable, and they offer great customer service.
So if you’re looking for a fun day out with friends or family, this is definitely one of the top tourist spots in Cookeville that you won’t want to miss.
Address: 323 East Spring St, Cookeville, TN 38501, United States.
17. Visit Delmonaco Winery and Vineyards for Some Tasting Events and Tours
Delmonaco Winery and Vineyards is located just 15 minutes outside Cookeville and is a great spot for wine lovers looking to relax and enjoy some local wines.
The winery offers guided tours so you can learn more about its processes and get an up-close look at the vineyards.
You can also enjoy complimentary tastings of some of their award-winning wines.
The grounds of the winery are beautiful, and it’s a great spot to enjoy a romantic picnic or just relax and take in the scenery.
You can also enjoy tasty foods at the winery’s on-site restaurant. The menu features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and the restaurant also has an extensive wine list.
Delmonaco Winery also hosts a number of events throughout the year, from wine tastings and pairings to live music nights.
This is a great option for couples looking for romantic things to do in Cookeville and enjoy a night out.
Address: 600 Lance Dr, Baxter, TN 38544, United States.
18. Enjoy a Drive-in Cinematic Experience at Sparta Drive-In
The Sparta Drive-In is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with the family or even a romantic date.
This Drive-in is the only one of its kind in the entire area and is a great spot to experience classic movies on their big screen.
This theater has been open since 1948 and is the longest-running drive-in theater in all of Tennessee.
Its parking can accommodate up to 276 cars, and the tickets here are quite cheap.
The theater is known for its classic movie screenings as well as for hosting special events like concerts and other live performances.
What’s more, this theater offers a variety of concessions and snacks for you to enjoy during the movie.
So if you have no idea what to do in Cookeville, head over to the Sparta Drive-In for a fun and memorable experience.
Address: 220 Roberts Matthews Hwy, Sparta, TN 38583, United States.
19. Visit the Famous Our Protectors Mural
Our Protectors is a stunning mural located on the corner of Cedar and W. Broad streets.
It was painted by a renowned local artist to honor the men and women who stepped up during the events of September 2001.
They include firefighters, paramedics, military personnel, emergency technicians, law enforcement officers, and helpful local people.
You can visit the mural, take some photos, and be reminded of the resilience and courage of those who put their lives on the line to protect the nation.
20. Enjoy a Horseback Riding Experience
A few things make Cookeville special, and one of them is its horseback riding experience.
The city has several horseback riding trails and stables that are perfect for anyone looking to explore the area from a different perspective.
Some of the most popular stables are Leslie’s Performance Horses, Circle K Horse Pavilion, Wildwood Stables, and Manna Hana Riding Center.
These stables offer guided tours, lessons, and horseback riding sessions for all levels of experience.
Personally, I would recommend Circle K Horse Pavilion to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.
This stable provides a great atmosphere, and the staffs here are very helpful and friendly.
They offer guided tours, as well as specialized riding lessons for both adults and kids.
Address: 4698 Bohannon Ln, Cookeville, TN 38506, United States.
21. Enjoy Cookeville Nightlife
After a long day of enjoying some of the famous attractions in Cookeville, spice things up by exploring the city’s nightlife.
Cookeville has plenty of hot spots for a wild night out with friends or that special someone.
From bars and pubs to trendy lounges and nightclubs, you’re in for a great time no matter what you’re looking for.
Some of the best spots in town are Father Tom’s Pub, Chili’s Grill & Bar, Spankies, and Hooligans Half Irish Pub.
There are more than enough things to do in Cookeville at night, so you’re sure to have a blast no matter what your preference is.
So get ready for awesome music, delicious food and drinks, and plenty of fun.
Address: Various locations in Cookeville.