This Tennessee Town Has Waterfalls, Caves, And The Coziest Main Street You’ve Ever Seen
Situated at the midpoint between Nashville and Chattanooga, you’ll find the charming small town of McMinnville, Tennessee. Its location makes it an easy weekend trip for travelers, while still maintaining an off-the-beaten-path spirit that welcomes visitors to feel like locals during their stay.
Born and raised in McMinnville, interior designer Raven Young is active in the town’s Historic Zoning Commission and Main Street McMinnville initiative. She works to highlight and share the area's beauty with tourists and residents alike.
“I think visitors especially love the charm, natural beauty, and history that our town offers,” she said. “I have talked to visitors who have come to enjoy some of the beautiful parks for hiking and kayaking, and then they venture downtown to the locally owned shops and restaurants. Our downtown is very much out of a Hallmark movie and gives visitors a genuine small town experience and makes them feel at home.”
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R24e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R44e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframeWhether you’re stopping in McMinnville for the day, spending a long weekend, or using it as a basecamp to explore nearby Tennessee state parks, we’ve rounded up the best places for lodging, dining, shopping, and adventuring in the town to help plan your trip. Get ready for a warm welcome from big-hearted locals.
“One of my favorite things is being able to walk down Main Street and wave at my friends as I walk by their shop or chat as we stand in line at the bank,” said Young. “It’s hard to describe to someone that maybe hasn’t experienced that, but I could never imagine living anywhere else, and I hope that everyone is able to experience walking down Main Street on a sunny afternoon and just feeling happy.”
Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens
Shelby Durham Photography
Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens is a beautifully preserved 1890s Victorian estate in McMinnville that offers guided tours rich in history and character. Visitors can enhance their experience by staying overnight in one of four bed-and-breakfast-style suites at Falcon Manor, located on the mansion’s grounds. Each suite blends antique elegance with modern comforts, and guests can enjoy gourmet breakfasts and stroll through the beautifully maintained gardens for a relaxing, memorable getaway. The estate’s five acres of gardens, developed over more than a decade, recreate an outdoor haven true to the time period with vibrant blooms and tranquil pathways.
falconrest.com, 2645 Faulkner Springs Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110
Smooth Rapids
Smooth Rapids
Smooth Rapids offers a full-service outdoor experience with kayaking, camping, and dining all in one scenic riverside location. Float down the Barren Fork River with beginner-friendly kayak rentals, then relax at the 8-acre pet-friendly campground featuring tent sites, RV hookups, and rental campers. The Grill at Smooth Rapids serves up hearty meals with river views and often hosts live music, creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Onsite amenities also include a playground, shower house, and easy access to the river, making it an ideal destination for a laid-back adventure in McMinnville.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R2ee4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R4ee4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframesmoothrapids.com, 245 Durham St, McMinnville, TN 37110
Cumberland Caverns
Sveinn Photography | Cumberland Caverns
McMinnville’s Cumberland Caverns invites adventurers to explore more than 27 miles of underground passageways with stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and pools. Guided walking tours, like the Discovery Tour, showcase the cave’s natural beauty and history. For thrill-seekers, adventure tours, such as the Hall Crawl or Guts and Glory, offer hands-on spelunking experiences through muddy passages and challenging climbs. Unique overnight packages allow groups to sleep within the cave’s expansive chambers. With a consistent temperature of 56 degrees and 99% humidity year-round, it’s a cool escape into nature’s depths. Reservations are recommended for adventure and overnight tours.
cumberlandcaverns.com, 1437 Cumberland Caverns Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110
Rock Island State Park
Shelby Durham Photography
Located northeast of downtown McMinnville, Rock Island State Park spans 883 acres of rugged beauty, featuring cascading waterfalls, deep-blue pools, and scenic trails. Highlights include the 30-foot Great Falls, which is below a historic 19th-century cotton mill, and Twin Falls, which emerges from a cavern into the Caney Fork River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing, and kayaking. On-site lodging includes 10 cabins and 60 campsites, offering a serene nature retreat.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R2ne4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R4ne4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframetnstateparks.com/parks/rock-island, 82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, TN 38581
The Park Theater
Shelby Durham Photography
The Park Theater is a meticulously restored 1939 art deco venue in downtown McMinnville that has reclaimed its role as a cultural centerpiece. Following a $2 million renovation completed in 2015, the theater now hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, theatrical productions, comedy shows, and community events. With seating for nearly 560 guests across its main floor and balcony, every seat offers a clear view of the stage. It’s the perfect place to catch a family-friendly show or venture out for a date night on your next trip.
mcminnvilleparktheater.com, 115 W Main St, McMinnville, TN 37110
Lemon
Shelby Durham Photography
Lemon is a boutique clothing and gift shop located in downtown McMinnville. Founded in 2019 by Amanda Lowe, Lemon offers a curated selection of stylish apparel, accessories, and home goods. The shop features brands such as Lucky Brand, Flying Monkey, and Vervet, catering to a variety of tastes and styles. With a focus on personalized customer service, shoppers can find unique items and receive styling advice.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R30e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R50e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframelemon37110.com, 126 E Main St, McMinnville, TN 37110
Southern Traditions Gifts and Interiors
Shelby Durham Photography
Southern Traditions Gifts & Interiors is a family-owned boutique that has operated in downtown McMinnville since 1981. The shop features an array of products, including fine china, jewelry, candles, women’s clothing, framed art, gifts, and more. Known for its warm welcome and customer service, the store is a beloved destination for those seeking unique and stylish items for their homes.
southerntraditionstn.com, 217 E Main Street, McMinnville, TN 37110
The Hitch Outfitters and General Store
Shelby Durham Photography
The Hitch Outfitters and General Store are two local-favorite shops located across from each other on Main Street in downtown McMinnville. The Hitch Outfitters offers a wide range of outdoor gear, clothing, and pet supplies. Brands like YETI, Chaco, and Life is Good are featured alongside local McMinnville merchandise. Meanwhile, across the street, The Hitch General Store delights visitors with nostalgic treats such as Goo Goo Clusters, Moon Pies, jams, honey, and classic bottled sodas. Both stores are known for their friendly service.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R39e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R59e4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframefacebook.com/thehitchoutfitters, 121 E Main St, McMinnville, TN 37110
Begonias
Shelby Durham Photography
Begonias is a mouth-watering bistro in downtown McMinnville, known for its house-made pasta and pizza dough, which is crafted daily. The menu offers a diverse selection, from classic pizzas and pastas to burgers, sandwiches, steaks, salmon, and fresh salads. Popular dishes include the garlic confit appetizer, Caesar salad, steak with smashed red potatoes and squash casserole, and the burnt cheddar cheeseburger. Dessert options like the homemade cheesecake are a must-try. The restaurant boasts a wide selection of beers and provides a nice ambiance for dinner.
facebook.com/BegoniasMcMinnville, 239 E Main St, McMinnville, TN 37110
Collins River BBQ & Cafe
Shelby Durham Photography
Collins River BBQ & Cafe is the perfect stop for some hearty Southern barbecue in a relaxed setting with excellent hospitality. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, and baby back ribs, as well as hand-breaded chicken tenders and Mississippi catfish. Popular sides include cornbread salad, baked beans, and Gouda mac and cheese. Appetizers like loaded nachos, smoked wings, and fried green tomatoes are also favorites among patrons. The restaurant offers a wide selection of craft beers and is known for making every guest feel like family.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R3ie4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R5ie4kr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframecollinsriverbbq.com, 117 E Main St, McMinnville, TN 37110
Cumberland Biscuit Company
Cumberland Biscuit Company
Cumberland Biscuit Company is a brunch spot on Main Street in McMinnville that is known for its scratch-made comfort food and warm hospitality. Their pancakes are a local favorite, often hailed as some of the best around. For a hearty meal, try the supreme omelet or the biscuits and gravy. On Friday and Saturday evenings, the dinner menu features standout dishes like shrimp and grits and the flavorful voodoo pasta, combining shrimp, chicken, and andouille sausage in a spicy, creamy sauce. The restaurant offers a selection of local beers and provides a cozy, rustic ambiance.
cumberlandbiscuitcompany.com, 114 W Main St, McMinnville, TN 37110
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