Wilson: Nature and History in Tennessee

A protected natural area, an archaeological center, and historic sites offer different ways to shape a trip around Wilson. The themes range from cedar glades and barrens to museums, reconstructed buildings, and event venues. You can tailor your stay depending on whether you mainly want to experience nature or explore the area's history.

Natural Areas and Tennessee Coneflower

The Cedars of Lebanon Natural Area encompasses 2,690 acres in Wilson County. It is part of the largest contiguous publicly managed complex of cedar glades and barrens. In 1979, the National Park Service recognized the area as one of 13 National Natural Landmarks in Tennessee. Its size and this recognition make it a notable point of reference for anyone interested in Tennessee's landscapes and natural areas.

Couchville Cedar Glade is considerably smaller, at 140 acres, and is located in Davidson and Wilson counties. The natural area is home to one of the largest known and highest-quality populations of the Tennessee coneflower (Echinacea tennesseensis). Couchville also offers practical information for visitors: the area is open to the public from 7:00 a.m. until sunset, and parking and hiking trails are available. Since access hours and conditions can change, check them before your visit.

Archaeology and Regional History

The Sellars Farm State Archaeological Area preserves a fortified center with a Mississippian-period mound, dated to A.D. 1000–1450. The site is located three miles southeast of Lebanon, Tennessee, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its archaeological history is distinct from the later building history represented by the area's museums and villages.

Fiddlers Grove is a reconstructed historic village in Lebanon. It includes more than 60 historic structures and museums, including original and replica buildings. Some original materials came from structures in rural communities in Wilson County. As a result, historic buildings of different origins stand side by side here, while Sellars Farm offers a glimpse into a much earlier chapter of history.

Lebanon is also home to the Lebanon History Museum, in the former building of Castle Heights Military Academy. In Watertown, Watertown Square is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The archives at the Welcome Center offer insights into Watertown's military, economic, and educational history. These places each have a distinct focus: a former academy building, a historically listed square, and archives covering several topics.

Venues and Activities

The Capitol Theatre is located on Lebanon's historic downtown square and serves as a multipurpose venue. Events held there include concerts, films, and musicals. Since individual event schedules can change, check the dates in advance if a particular event is important to your trip.

Charlie Daniels Park features Planet Playground, an enclosed 9,000-square-foot playground, as well as a one-mile walking trail. The park's amphitheater hosts musical events throughout the year; the schedule varies. With this combination of offerings, the park makes for a destination in its own right, whether you are planning to spend time outdoors or attend music events.

The Stardust Drive-In Theatre in Watertown offers open-air movies under the night sky and has provided its drive-in experience since 2003. The address is 310 Purple Tiger Drive, Watertown, Tennessee 37184. If you'd like to combine a movie outing with time outdoors, this offers a different kind of evening than a concert or performance at the Capitol Theatre.

Breeden’s Orchard offers peach picking as a seasonal activity. Check dates and reservation options before you travel. Alongside the very different nature, history, and cultural destinations, this seasonal offering shows that the best time to travel may also depend on which activity you want to enjoy.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Mt Juliet, Lebanon, Shelby, Gibson, Davidson, Unicoi County, Mcnairy County, Grainger County.

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