One of the quiet advantages of Murfreesboro is how much there is to do for a city its size, outdoors, history, family attractions, college-town energy, and shopping, all without a big-city commute. Here is a local’s rundown.
Get outside
Murfreesboro is an outdoor town. Barfield Crescent Park offers 430+ acres of trails, disc golf, and the Wilderness Station. The Stones River Greenway runs more than 12 paved miles along the river, and the Stones River National Battlefield pairs Civil War history with quiet walking trails. Old Fort Park and Gateway Island add playgrounds, ponds, and open green space in the middle of town.
Explore the history
Oaklands Mansion is a restored historic home and museum set in a city park. Cannonsburgh Village recreates a 19th-century Middle Tennessee town, complete with the famous oversized cedar bucket, and hosts seasonal festivals. The historic Public Square downtown anchors the city with its courthouse, shops, and events.
Family favorites
The Discovery Center at Murfree Spring is a hands-on science and nature museum that is a rite of passage for local kids, with an adjoining wetland boardwalk. Sports*Com and the city’s recreation centers add pools, gyms, and programs year-round.
College-town energy
As home to Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro gets the perks of a college town: Blue Raider athletics, concerts and events at Murphy Center, and a steady calendar of campus activity that keeps the city young and lively.
Shopping and dining districts
The Avenue Murfreesboro is the city’s largest open-air shopping center, while The Fountains at Gateway and the historic downtown square add boutique shopping and locally owned restaurants. Between them you can find just about anything without leaving town.
Signature events
Murfreesboro’s calendar includes Main Street JazzFest in spring, Uncle Dave Macon Days, the International Folkfest, and the Saturday Market on the Square through the warm months, community traditions that give the town its character.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Murfreesboro, TN?
Plenty: hike Barfield Crescent Park and the Stones River Greenway, tour the Stones River National Battlefield and Oaklands Mansion, visit the Discovery Center with kids, catch MTSU events, and shop The Avenue and the historic square.
Is Murfreesboro a good place for families?
Yes. Between its large park system, the Discovery Center, recreation centers, and safe, family-friendly neighborhoods, Murfreesboro is a popular landing spot for families relocating to Middle Tennessee.
What is Murfreesboro known for?
Its Civil War history (the Battle of Stones River), Middle Tennessee State University, a fast-growing economy, and being the geographic center of Tennessee.
What is there to do outdoors in Murfreesboro?
Barfield Crescent Park, the 12-mile Stones River Greenway, the Stones River National Battlefield, Old Fort Park, and Gateway Island are the local favorites for trails, biking, and green space.