Mount Juliet, Tennessee: 10 Short Day Trips to Explore
10 Easy Road Trips from Mount Juliet, Tennessee for a Fun Day Out
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| Trade routine for a scenic drive from Mount Juliet to Nashville music, lakeside views, waterfall stops, and historic Tennessee charm in just one day. |
If you’re in Mount Juliet, Tennessee and itching for a quick escape, you’re in a great spot. This Wilson County city makes it easy to plan a road trip, a simple day trip, or even a casual nearby getaway without spending all day in the car. Within about an hour or so, you can reach lakes, museums, waterfalls, charming downtowns, and some of Middle Tennessee’s most loved spots.
The best part? You do not have to go far to feel like you’ve had a real break. Sometimes a short drive is like hitting the reset button. Pack some snacks, cue up your favorite playlist, and let’s look at 10 great things to do near Mount Juliet that are outside Wilson County.
1. Walk Through History at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage in Davidson County
Just west of Mount Juliet, The Hermitage is one of the most well-known historic sites in the Nashville area. This former home of President Andrew Jackson gives you a close-up look at early Tennessee history, with a mansion, gardens, and walking paths around the property.
If you enjoy places that tell a story, this is an easy win for a day trip from Mount Juliet, TN. The grounds are peaceful, and the tours help bring the past to life without feeling too heavy. It’s a good pick if you want something interesting but not overwhelming.
- County: Davidson County
- Why go: Historic home, scenic grounds, easy drive
- Great for: Couples, families, history fans
2. Spend the Day at Nashville’s Broadway and Downtown in Davidson County
Sometimes the most iconic weekend trip is the one that gives you a little bit of everything. Downtown Nashville is packed with live music, restaurants, murals, shops, and famous honky-tonks along Broadway. Even if you’ve been before, it always feels a little different each time.
You can keep it simple: grab lunch, listen to a few bands, and stroll by the riverfront. Or make it a full day with stops at museums and local shops. If a friend asks, “What’s an easy road trip near Mount Juliet?” this is probably the first answer that comes to mind.
- County: Davidson County
- Why go: Music, food, fun atmosphere
- Great for: Groups, first-time visitors, couples
3. Take in the Views at Long Hunter State Park in Davidson County
Need some fresh air? Long Hunter State Park is a solid choice for a nearby getaway. With trails, lake views, and picnic spots near Percy Priest Lake, it’s ideal when you want a break from traffic and screens.
I’ve always liked places like this for a low-stress road trip. You don’t need a big plan. Just bring water, wear decent shoes, and enjoy a few quiet hours outside. It’s the kind of spot that feels simple in the best way.
- County: Davidson County
- Why go: Hiking, lake scenery, peaceful setting
- Great for: Nature lovers, solo travelers, families
4. Explore the Stones River National Battlefield in Rutherford County
In Murfreesboro, Stones River National Battlefield offers a meaningful and memorable day trip. This Civil War site has walking trails, monuments, and a visitor center that helps explain what happened here.
Even if you are not a huge history buff, the area is easy to appreciate. It’s quiet, well kept, and gives you room to slow down for a while. Think of it as part outdoor walk, part history lesson, and part reflective escape.
- County: Rutherford County
- Why go: Important history, scenic trails, educational exhibits
- Great for: Families, students, history fans
5. Visit the Discovery Center in Murfreesboro in Rutherford County
If you’re planning things to do near Mount Juliet, Tennessee with kids, the Discovery Center is an easy pick. This hands-on museum has interactive exhibits that keep little ones busy while still being fun for adults too.
On a hot day or a rainy afternoon, it can be a lifesaver. Every parent knows that finding a place where kids can burn energy and learn something is like finding gold. This is that kind of stop.
- County: Rutherford County
- Why go: Interactive exhibits, family-friendly fun
- Great for: Families with young kids
6. See the Water at Center Hill Lake in DeKalb County
For a relaxing day trip near Mount Juliet, head east to Center Hill Lake. This beautiful lake is a favorite for boating, fishing, swimming, and simply enjoying the view. If you want a nearby getaway that feels more like a mini vacation, this is it.
There’s just something about a lake day. The pace slows down. The air feels lighter. Even sitting by the shoreline with a sandwich and a cold drink can feel like a reward after a busy week.
- County: DeKalb County
- Why go: Water views, boating, relaxing atmosphere
- Great for: Couples, families, outdoor lovers
7. Tour the Appalachian Center for Craft in DeKalb County
Also in DeKalb County, the Appalachian Center for Craft offers a different kind of road trip. This creative spot showcases fine craft, art exhibits, and often working studios where you can see beautiful handmade pieces.
If you like discovering places that feel a bit under the radar, this one is worth the drive. It’s calm, inspiring, and set in a scenic area. You may even leave wanting to take up pottery or glasswork yourself.
- County: DeKalb County
- Why go: Art, scenic setting, unique experience
- Great for: Creative travelers, couples, quiet explorers
8. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Gallatin in Sumner County
Downtown Gallatin is a charming short trip from Mount Juliet with a classic Tennessee small-town feel. You’ll find local shops, places to eat, and a walkable square that makes for an easy afternoon outing.
This is a nice option when you don’t want a packed schedule. Maybe you just want coffee, a little shopping, and a change of scenery. Not every road trip needs to be a big production. Sometimes a simple downtown stroll is exactly enough.
- County: Sumner County
- Why go: Small-town charm, dining, shopping
- Great for: Couples, friends, casual day trippers
9. Enjoy the Lake at Bledsoe Creek State Park in Sumner County
If your ideal nearby getaway from Mount Juliet, TN includes nature and easy walking trails, Bledsoe Creek State Park is a smart choice. Set along Old Hickory Lake, the park is known for birdwatching, peaceful water views, and picnic areas.
It’s one of those places where you can do as much or as little as you want. Walk a trail, sit by the water, or just breathe a little deeper for a while. That kind of flexibility makes it great for almost any traveler.
- County: Sumner County
- Why go: Lake access, trails, quiet outdoor time
- Great for: Nature fans, couples, families
10. Visit the Historic Cordell Hull Birthplace Area in Pickett? No — Instead, Discover the Rock Island Side of Cannon County at Short Mountain Distillery
For a unique outing in Cannon County, head toward Short Mountain Distillery near Woodbury. This scenic property is known for its Tennessee spirits, countryside views, and relaxed setting. It’s a nice choice for adults looking for a different kind of weekend trip or afternoon drive.
The drive itself is part of the fun, with rolling hills and rural scenery that remind you how pretty Middle Tennessee can be. It feels a bit like stepping off the main road and into a slower world, which can be a welcome change after a busy week.
- County: Cannon County
- Why go: Scenic drive, local distillery, countryside setting
- Great for: Adults, couples, food and drink fans
Quick Tips for Planning Day Trips from Mount Juliet, Tennessee
Before you head out, here are a few easy tips to make your road trips from Mount Juliet smoother:
- Check hours before you go, especially for museums and historic sites.
- Bring snacks and water for longer drives or outdoor stops.
- Wear comfy shoes if you plan to walk trails or tour downtown areas.
- Start early if you want to fit more into your day.
- Keep a backup plan in mind in case weather changes.
Why Mount Juliet Is Great for Quick Escapes
One of the best things about living in or visiting Mount Juliet, TN is how many fun places sit just beyond the county line. You can go from city lights to lakeside views, from live music to quiet trails, all in a pretty short drive. That’s what makes this area so good for spontaneous adventures.
So, which of these day trips near Mount Juliet sounds best to you? A walk through history, a day on the lake, or a food-and-music run into Nashville? However you like to travel, there is something nearby that fits.
If you found this list helpful, share it with a friend who loves a good road trip. And if you’ve visited any of these spots, leave a comment and say which one you’d recommend most.
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