10 Fun Things To Do Near Mount Juliet, Tennessee (Wilson County Guide)

If you’re looking for a friendly small town just outside Nashville with plenty to do, Mount Juliet, Tennessee is a great pick. Tucked into Wilson County, only about 20–25 minutes east of downtown Nashville, this fast-growing suburb has lakes, parks, shopping, and easy access to Music City. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family visit, or you just moved here and want to explore, here are 10 fun things to do in and around Mount Juliet, TN.

1. Get Out on the Water at Percy Priest Lake

One of the best perks of living near Mount Juliet is how close you are to the water. J. Percy Priest Lake stretches for miles, and parts of it are right by town. You can:

Rent a pontoon boat or jet ski
Go swimming at one of the day-use areas
Try paddleboarding or kayaking
Cast a line for bass, crappie, or catfish

If you don’t own a boat, check out nearby marinas and outfitters that offer rentals by the hour or day. On a hot Tennessee summer afternoon, drifting on the lake with a cold drink in your hand feels pretty close to perfect. Pro tip: Go early in the day on weekends. Parking lots and boat ramps can fill up quickly when the weather is nice.

2. Explore Long Hunter State Park

On the southeast side of Percy Priest Lake you’ll find Long Hunter State Park, an easy drive from Mount Juliet. It’s a calm escape when you need a break from traffic and screens. Things to do at Long Hunter:

Walk the 4-mile Couchville Lake Trail (paved and mostly flat)
Pack a picnic and enjoy lake views
Launch a kayak or canoe from the shore
Look for deer, birds, and wildflowers

If you’re new to hiking or have kids in strollers, this is a great park to start with because many of the trails are easy and clearly marked. On cool fall days, the trees around the lake put on a serious color show.

3. Shop, Dine, and Stroll at Providence Marketplace

If you’re asking, “What is there to do in Mount Juliet itself?” the answer usually starts with Providence Marketplace. This huge outdoor shopping center is the main retail hub of the city. Here you’ll find:

Big-name stores and small boutiques
Casual and sit-down restaurants
A movie theater for date night or family night
Plenty of coffee and dessert spots

It’s not just about shopping. On weekends, you’ll see families walking around, teens grabbing ice cream, and friends catching up over dinner. If you’re staying in a nearby hotel or short-term rental, you can easily spend an afternoon or evening here without ever needing to drive into Nashville. Mount Juliet travel tip: If you’re visiting during the holidays, Providence often has seasonal decor and occasional events that make it feel extra festive.

4. Enjoy Old Hickory Lake and Cedar Creek

Mount Juliet is lucky enough to sit between two major lakes. On the northern side of town you’ll find Old Hickory Lake, another great spot for outdoor fun. A popular local area is the Cedar Creek Recreation Area, where you can:

Launch your boat
Have a lakeside picnic
Camp at shaded sites
Fish along the shoreline

Old Hickory feels a bit more laid-back than some areas of Percy Priest. If you prefer quieter coves and a slower pace on the water, you may like this side of town better. Imagine starting your day with coffee at a Mount Juliet cafe, then heading a short drive north to spend the rest of the day by the lake. It’s an easy way to turn an ordinary Saturday into a mini vacation.

5. Take a Day Trip into Downtown Nashville

One of the biggest reasons travelers choose Mount Juliet is its easy access to downtown Nashville. You get a quieter, safer suburban feel at night, but you’re only about 20–25 minutes away from all the famous Nashville attractions. From Mount Juliet you can quickly reach:

Broadway and its live music honky-tonks
The Country Music Hall of Fame
Ryman Auditorium
Bridgestone Arena for concerts and games
The Johnny Cash Museum

You can drive in and park, or use rideshare if you don’t want to deal with traffic after dark. Many visitors like staying in Mount Juliet because hotels and short-term rentals are often cheaper than in downtown Nashville, but you still get to enjoy all the Music City action.

6. Visit the Wilson County Fairgrounds & Local Events

Just a short drive east of Mount Juliet is Lebanon, TN, the county seat of Wilson County. Here you’ll find the Wilson County Fairgrounds, home to one of the most popular fairs in Tennessee. If your trip lines up with the Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair, you can enjoy:

Rides and games
Fair food like funnel cakes and corn dogs
Livestock shows
Live music and entertainment

Even outside of fair season, the fairgrounds often host:

Car shows
Craft and trade shows
Seasonal festivals

If you like seeing a more local, small-town side of Tennessee, checking the events calendar for the fairgrounds is worth your time.

7. Walk, Run, or Bike the Local Greenways

Mount Juliet and Wilson County have been putting more effort into walking and biking trails, and it shows. If you like to stay active while traveling, you’ll find several greenways and parks to explore. Around Mount Juliet you can:

Stroll neighborhood sidewalks and connector trails
Visit local city parks with walking loops
Drive a bit farther to greenways in nearby communities

Even short walks are a nice way to get a feel for the area. You see everyday life—kids playing, dogs being walked, neighbors chatting on porches. It’s a simple thing, but it helps you understand what living in Mount Juliet is really like. Hint: Ask a local barista or server where they like to walk or run. They’ll usually point you to the closest and nicest paths.

8. Sample Local Eats and Tennessee Comfort Food

Trying local food is one of the best things to do near Mount Juliet, especially if you love Southern comfort food. In and around Mount Juliet you’ll find:

BBQ joints with pulled pork, ribs, and smoked chicken
Meat-and-three style restaurants with daily specials
Breakfast spots serving biscuits, gravy, and pancakes
Locally owned cafes and bakeries

If you have time, explore nearby Lebanon and other small towns in Wilson County. Many of the best places are family-run diners that have been around for years. The portions are usually big, the prices are reasonable, and the sweet tea keeps coming. If you’re planning a Mount Juliet weekend getaway, build at least one “eat your way through town” afternoon into your schedule.

9. Play a Round at a Local Golf Course

Golfers will find several golf courses near Mount Juliet, including both public and private options around Wilson County and the eastern Nashville area. Depending on where you book, you can:

Play 18 holes with rolling fairways and tree-lined views
Practice at a driving range
Enjoy lunch or a drink at the clubhouse

The mild Tennessee climate means you can often play from early spring into late fall, and some locals play year-round on warmer winter days. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, a morning round followed by a lakeside afternoon makes for a pretty great day. Travel tip: Reserve your tee time ahead of time on weekends and holidays, especially in spring and fall when the weather is ideal.

10. Discover Small-Town Wilson County Charm

Beyond Mount Juliet and Lebanon, Wilson County has several smaller communities that are fun for a relaxed drive and a few stops. You might:

Wander through historic downtown areas
Browse antique shops and local boutiques
Check out local churches and historic buildings
Stop at roadside produce stands in season

This is the kind of exploring you often don’t see in glossy travel brochures, but it can be the most memorable. Maybe you’ll find the best pie you’ve ever had at a tiny cafe, or you’ll end up chatting with a local shop owner who gives you tips on even more hidden gems near Mount Juliet.

Planning Your Trip to Mount Juliet, Tennessee

Mount Juliet is a great base if you want:

Quick access to downtown Nashville
Easy drives to Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake
Family-friendly neighborhoods and parks
Plenty of shopping and dining at Providence Marketplace

Whether you’re into boating, hiking, live music, or just relaxing with good food and good views, you’ll find something that fits your style.

What Would You Add to the List?

Have you spent time in Mount Juliet or Wilson County?

Did you find a favorite local restaurant?
Do you have a go-to fishing spot or park?
Is there a hidden gem you think more visitors should know about?

Share your tips in the comments so other travelers can discover more fun things to do near Mount Juliet, Tennessee. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or on social media—it might help someone else plan their perfect Mount Juliet getaway.

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