UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
#1. Columbia TN
Why It’s an Amazing Fall Destination: Columbia is just about an hour outside of Nashville, and there’s no better time to take in its picturesque, historic town square than fall, when local businesses are adorned with festive decorations and everyone’s sipping Muletown coffee. It’s also the perfect destination to take in all the gorgeous fall colors that line Tennessee’s portion of the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Where to Spot the Best Fall Colors: Almost anywhere along Natchez Trace is going to make all your fall foliage dreams come true, with peak colors usually happening in the last week of October and the first week of November. The Maury County Park Nature Trail is a .6-mile loop just 10 minutes outside of downtown Columbia and it’s an easy stroll if you’re more interested in sipping a latte and chatting than working out.
What to Eat and Drink: ‘Tis the season for soup and Square Market and Cafe has the best in Maury County. Their tomato artichoke soup and crab bisque earn constant raves. Hit up Muletown for all your coffee needs and The Windmill Bakery for sweet treats. Their menu includes cinnamon rolls, pecan pie, and pumpkin cheesecake (and they also offer tons of gluten-free options).
And While You’re There…: Every October Satterwhite Farm turns into Pumpkin Paradise with pumpkin picking, tractor rides and more. The fun doesn’t end on Oct. 31, though — the weekend after Halloween they host the Pumpkin Paradise Catapult, where you can bring your old jack-o-lanterns and launch through the air into the nearby pumpkin field.
Read More:
Downtown Columbia, TN is Bustling
Discover Maury County, TN
