Known for its role in America’s Civil War, Murfreesboro is home to historic battlefields, forts, cemeteries and former plantation homes. The “Boro” also embraces modern life with craft breweries, dedicated open-air shopping squares, trendy eateries and live-music venues.

Things to do

You can reflect on the city’s early days at Stones River National Battlefield and the adjacent Stones River Cemetery, the final resting place for more than 6,000 Union soldiers. A stroll through Cannonsburgh Village gives a more nuanced look at Tennessee in the 1830s, with an original schoolhouse and general store. You can also admire a diverse arboretum and centuries-old architecture at Oaklands Mansion.

Families enjoy discovering dinosaurs and fossils at MTSU’s Natural History Museum, home to a full-cast Tyrannosaurus Rex. At Murfree Spring Wetlands, you’ll find multiple hiking trails traversing natural habitats. Stop by the on-site Discovery Center to view animal exhibits, tromp through a simulated rainforest and operate trains in the interactive Discovery Depot.

After a morning of shopping on The Avenue, a collection of more than 100 outdoor shops, relax with espresso or ice cream in the downtown public square. Don’t miss authentic Southern fare at The Alley on Main, a “scratch restaurant” dishing out fried catfish and homemade desserts. Sip on local brews at Mayday Brewery taproom.

In the Nashville music tradition, Murfreesboro cranks out live music at joints, such as Hank’s Honky Tonk, The Goat and Main Street Music. Check schedules for karaoke and open-mic nights. Entertainment at Wall Street often includes stand-up comedy performances.

Getting around

Nashville International Airport lies about 40 kilometres away, where you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Murfreesboro. Taxis, bike shares and rideshares operate throughout the city, and the Relax and Ride bus services provide transportation to and from Nashville.