Summer Fun for Families in Rutherford County, TN
Remember when we were kids and Summer seemed like it could not come fast enough and it went by way too fast? Then, as an adult and more specifically a parent, it’s like it goes from Springtime when we are waiting and waiting for warm weather too BAM – May. Time for every end of year party, social calendars filling up, Summer days with no school, and for us multiple birthdays. All of the sudden it’s here and you may or may not have planned a few things to enjoy with the kids this Summer. (and whether you did or did not plan, remember you’re doing great!)
If your kids are like mine, they could spend all day outside, love anything that leads them to needing a bath, and will never pass up on an opportunity to enjoy a hot day in the water.
Luckily, in Middle Tennessee we have plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun in addition to so many indoor options. While I do advocate for some boredom during childhood, it’s always fun to have a nice planned fun day as well!
As a Rutherford County parent, it’s my specialty. So here it goes! I hope this list helps and if you have any must-dos, please let me know and I will add them!
OUTDOOR
1. Parks: all of these have great spots to walk, push a stroller, picnic and playground space
a. Barfield & McKnight Park in Murfreesboro
b. Cedar Stone & Lee Victory Park in Smyrna
2. Greenways: Located all over Rutherford County you’ll find plenty of Greenway trails and trailheads all around. They are the perfect place to go if you want a paved trail, but don’t necessarily need a playground. If you’re looking to pair a walk with coffee or a meal, you can head to the trailhead at The Fountains! Grab something from Just Love Coffee and you’re set.
3. SOAC: The Smyrna Outdoor Activity Center has the Splashtown Pool which is the perfect place when you just need a pool! They also offer party rentals for the pool or indoors if you are looking.
4. Splash pads: The Fountains & Gregory Mills Park are two of our favorites!
5. Lakes & Hiking: This one is just outside of Rutherford County, but we have so many lakes and parks in the area that offer a chance to get on the water. Whether boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or just floating is your speed, it’s within reach. Some of our favorites are Tims Ford Lake, Percy Priest Lake, and Center Hill.
INDOOR
1. Murfreesboro:
a. Discovery Center – a children’s museum with tons and tons of activities for a large range of ages.
b. Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park
c. Lanes, Trains, and Automobiles – bowling + arcade
d. Climb Murfreesboro
2. Smyrna
a. SOAC – indoor rock climbing, monthly kids activities
b. Kidz Adventure Center – indoor play space for younger kids
c. Stars & Strikes – bowling
d. Smyrna Public Library – check out their events calendar for fun days all month
e. Sam Davis Home – “Toddler Tuesdays” on the last Tuesday every month. This is an indoor/outdoor activity day that is planned seasonally.
I hope you and your family have the absolute best Summer filled with smores, water, laughter, lightness, and delicious warm weather meals!
