5 Things To Do in Rutherford County After Work
After a long day at the office, it can be easy to just head home and sit in front of the TV. But in Rutherford County, there’s plenty to do after you clock out. Whether you’re into being active outdoors, learning about the history of the region, listening to live music or kicking back with friends at a cool restaurant, Rutherford County has a superb selection of things to do after your 9-to-5.
In This Article
1. Get Outside
Head to Poole Knobs Recreation Area in La Vergne for a serene evening on the lake or take in the sights from the beach area while you cook dinner over the firepit.
Smyrna’s Sharp Springs Park is the largest natural area in the Smyrna Park System and boasts 360 acres of greenway trails, the aptly named Bark Springs Park dog park and an 18-hole disc golf course.
If it’s cold outside, Climb Murfreesboro has you covered with world-class rock climbing for any level as well as group fitness classes and even a kids’ area.
2. Listen to Live Music
If you like to kick back and listen to live music with a beer in hand after work, check out Hop Springs Beer Park in Murfreesboro. With music and entertainment almost every night and ice-cold beer on tap, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the evening.
Eagleville’s Grindstone Cowboy is family run and touts itself as being a coffee shop, restaurant, bar and music venue all in one. A packed events calendar, friendly atmosphere, and delicious food and cocktails bring locals back again and again.
Boro Bourbon & Brews is the place to go to catch the game or enjoy live music with a bourbon in hand. Conveniently located on the Murfreesboro Square, its weekday happy hour caters to those looking to relax after work and features $2 off appetizers, beer, wine and more.
3. Enjoy Some Family Fun
Bowling alleys aren’t just for birthday parties! Stars and Strikes in Smyrna is packed with family fun, including laser tag, axe throwing, virtual reality experiences, and of course, bowling. Make it a whole night and grab dinner at its restaurant.
If the weather is good, pack a picnic and head to Murfreesboro’s Old Fort Park. This 50-acre community park features greenway access, a tennis complex and the local favorite Kids’ Castle Playground.
Another great playground option is the all-inclusive Freedom Playground, offering fun for all ages and abilities in Smyrna’s popular Lee Victory Park. While you’re there, don’t miss the park’s Captain Jeff Kuss USMC Memorial, featuring a Blue Angel Hornet aircraft honoring the Blue Angels.
4. Check Out the Dining Scene
After you clock out, The Alley on Main is the perfect place to head for fresh seafood, pasta dishes and steaks. Located right off the Murfreesboro Square, it’s ideal for a date night or family dinner. You can’t go wrong here, but people rave about the chicken parmesan — it’s big enough to share!
The Print Shop Restaurant in Smyrna is a fantastic place to hang with friends after a long day. Created as a socialhouse, restaurant goers enjoy good bites in unique surroundings with a good view of downtown Smyrna.
5. Learn About Local History
If you enjoy learning about the area’s rich history, Stones River National Battlefield in Murfreesboro is a good place to start. This 570-acre park is full of Civil War landmarks. Walk, bike or even take a drive to tour the many historic sites located here.
The Geographic Center of Tennessee is a unique place to hang out as the obelisk monument marks the exact center of the state. Just half a mile from the campus of Middle Tennessee State University, it’s now a great selfie spot, but 200 years ago it was an important location as Tennessee’s capital was chosen.
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