Your Guide to Murfreesboro in the Fall

Cool breezes, cozy mornings, and chili season have officially made their way into Middle Tennessee. Is there anything better?

If you’re a Tennesseean, you know that this time of year can be a bit unpredictable when it comes to temperature variation. Typically, by Halloween we can enjoy long sleeves and layers for a night of trick-or-treating, but until then it’s a mixed bag. Fall activities and pumpkin patches will absolutely be around though and that helps make the season feel like the best time of year!

If you’re new to Rutherford County or just curious about a new spot, here are some ideas from a local to add to your weekend list.

DAY TRIPS

1. Cheekwood Harvest Festival, Nashville | September 14-October 27, 2024

2. Nashville Fall Festival, Nashville | September 20-October 27, 2024

3. Oktoberfest, Nashville | October 3-6, 2024

4. Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival, Nashville | October 5, 2024

5. Webb Arts & Crafts Show, Bell Buckle | October 19-20

6. Boo at the Zoo, Nashville | October 11-31, 2024

PUMPKIN PATCHES

1. Walden Pumpkin Farm, Smyrna

2. Lucky Ladd, Eagleville

3. Grandaddy’s Farm, Tullahoma

4. Wilson Family Farm, College Grove

5. Cedarwood Pumpkin Patch, McMinnville

OUTDOOR WALKS & HIKES

1. Barfield Park, Murfreesboro

2. Cedar Stone Park, Smyrna

3. Sharp Springs Park, Smyrna

4. Murfreesboro & Smyrna Greenway Systems

5. Hiking trails in South Cumberland State Park

6. Walking path day loop around Long Hunter State Park

7. Machine Falls loop, Tullahoma

BONUS: SEASONAL RECIPE TO TRY

Pumpkin Chili
This is my family’s favorite chili recipe that everyone loves, 2 & 4 year old included! It is simple and so easy to throw together. The addition of pumpkin makes it hearty and filling, but also adds some extra nutrients. With two little ones, any time I can add additional nourishment to their diet and make it taste this good is a win.

Ingredients:
1 onion
1.5 lbs. beef or venison
1 large can of chili pinto beans
2 regular cans of chili kidney beans
1 large can of fire roasted tomatoes
1 can of pumpkin
Chili powder, salt, pepper to taste

Stovetop instructions: Cook onion and meat to 50%, add remaining ingredients, cook until done
(you can also add it to a crockpot for a few hours after you cook the meat and onions 50% if you prefer)