Discover Culture and Charm in Maury County, TN
Maury County, Tennessee, is experiencing a remarkable boom, fueled by its rich Southern charm and an outstanding quality of life. This vibrant community, nestled within the Nashville metro area, has attracted a surge of new residents and visitors, with its population soaring over 12% since 2020 to reach 113,400. From a thriving arts scene and delectable local cuisine to abundant outdoor access and historic allure, Maury County truly offers a standout living experience.
In This Article
Arts and Music
The arts are alive in Maury County. Many public spaces are adorned with vibrant murals and colorful sculptures waiting for a photo op.
As evident by the region’s many live music venues, music is a way of life here. Historic Columbia’s popular venue, The Mulehouse, boasts a stacked calendar of live music, open mic nights and a Songwriter Series that draws in the Music City’s best songwriters.
In Mount Pleasant, the unique Music on the Porch Concert Series runs from April to October and offers free concerts on the patios of the city’s most beautiful homes. During the spring and summer, Pickin’ in the Park is an event that hosts musicians at Harvey Park in Spring Hill.
For live music among the grapes, Music on the Ridge at Amber Falls Winery is the perfect place to unwind on weekends.
Other venues to note are Puckett’s in Columbia and Columbia State Community College’s Performance Series at the Cherry Theater.
Nature Escapes
In Maury County, it’s easy to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Miles of greenways wind their way through the county, and parks are thoughtfully placed throughout. The large Chickasaw Trace Park is home to 9 miles of mountain biking trails to get your heart pumping as well as a flying field and track for remote-controlled airplanes and cars. Boat ramp access allows visitors to explore the ecologically diverse and stunning Duck River. Columbia’s Riverwalk Park also runs along the Duck River and is a great spot for running and walking. In the summer, kids enjoy the park’s splash pad.
At 474-acres, Yanahli Park is unlike any other and is Maury County’s biggest and newest park. The park is home to many unique geologic features and ecosystems, and provides habitats to rare and endangered species.
Local Fare
After working up an appetite at the region’s many parks, it’s time to eat. Luckily, Maury County takes its local fare seriously. Tucked away in the Factory at Columbia, August Sage Cafe and Lounge is a hip and airy hangout for coffee, cocktails and locally sourced food. For the perfect mashup of Texas and Tennessee eats, specializes in brisket and pulled pork.
For lunch, Ollie & Finn’s Counter is the place to be with mouthwatering sandwiches, cozy soups and fresh salads. Or try Columbia’s Little Juice Company for light bites, juices and smoothies.
Historic Charm
Maury County is rich in history. Perhaps the region’s biggest historic claim to fame is being the home of the 11th U.S. president, James K. Polk. Visitors can explore the house and grounds of the President James K. Polk Home and Museum and then head across the street to Preservation Park to view the life-sized bronze statues of the Polks.
Once part of a girls’ school, the Athenaeum Rectory is a must-see for its unique architecture, and George Polk’s home, dubbed “Rattle and Snap,” is often considered the most monumental house in the state.
For a powerful and insightful journey into the Civil War, history comes alive at Rippa Villa and the Spring Hill Battlefield in Spring Hill.
Agricultural Ties
Maury County has a long tradition of farming, and the region continues to maintain a strong agricultural presence. As the “Mule Capital of the World,” Columbia is home to the famous annual Mule Day celebration, luring in more than 100,000 visitors each year.
Downtown Columbia’s The Ridge Butcher Shop provides the area with high-quality meats and groceries. And from May through October, the Columbia Farmers Market slings fresh produce galore. For the region’s best-tasting honey, be sure to check out TN Bee Farm in Williamsport.
Get to Know Maury County, TN
Want to learn more about living and working in Maury County? Check out the latest edition of Livability: Maury County Business.