10 Fun Things To Do Near Cookeville, Tennessee (Putnam County)
Looking for a laid-back getaway in the heart of Tennessee?
Cookeville, TN, in Putnam County, is a friendly small city right off I‑40 that’s packed with outdoor adventure, good food, and small-town charm.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip from Nashville or Knoxville, or just passing through on your way to the Smokies, this guide will walk you through
10 fun things to do in and around Cookeville.
1. Chase Waterfalls at Cummins Falls State Park
If you do just one thing near Cookeville, make it
Cummins Falls State Park, about 9 miles north of town.
This park is home to one of Tennessee’s most-loved waterfalls. The falls drop about 75 feet into a gorgeous swimming hole surrounded by rock walls. It feels like a hidden canyon, even though it’s just a short drive from the city.
- What to do: Hike down to the gorge (permit required), swim, picnic, and take photos.
- Tip: The hike is rocky, steep, and can be slick. Wear good water shoes, not flip flops.
- Good to know: The state park often closes the gorge area after heavy rain for safety, so check conditions and permits online before you go.
On a hot Tennessee afternoon, that cold river water feels amazing. It’s the kind of place you’ll think about long after you head home.
2. Explore the Historic Cookeville Downtown & WestSide District
Downtown Cookeville has a cozy, old-town feel with brick buildings, local shops, and murals that make fun photo backdrops.
Start around the
Cookeville Depot Museum, then wander through the
WestSide District.
- Grab coffee or ice cream from a local café.
- Pop into antique stores and gift shops.
- Check out murals and public art for a quick photo walk.
- Enjoy live music some evenings at local bars or restaurants.
If you like towns where you can park your car and just stroll, downtown Cookeville will be your kind of place.
3. Step Back in Time at the Cookeville Depot Museum
Right in downtown, the
Cookeville Depot Museum sits in a restored 1909 train depot. Even if you’re not a “train person,” this little museum is worth a stop.
- See historic train cars, including a steam engine and caboose.
- Learn how the railroad shaped Cookeville and the Upper Cumberland region.
- Let kids climb around the outdoor displays (great for photos).
Admission is usually free or very low cost, and you can easily pair a visit here with lunch or shopping downtown.
4. Hike & Picnic at Cane Creek Park
If you want something relaxing and close to town, head over to
Cane Creek Park on the west side of Cookeville.
This is the kind of park locals use all the time, and visitors love it too.
- Walk the paved and natural trails around the lake.
- Rent a paddleboat, kayak, or canoe in season.
- Let the kids burn energy on the playgrounds.
- Fish from the shore or from the small dock.
Pack a simple picnic (sandwiches, chips, maybe some sweet tea) and enjoy a slow afternoon by the water.
5. Discover More Falls at Burgess Falls State Park
Just a short drive southwest of Cookeville,
Burgess Falls State Park delivers another “wow” moment.
Here, the Falling Water River crashes through a series of waterfalls, ending in a dramatic 130‑foot drop into a deep gorge.
- Walk the river trail and stop at multiple lookout points.
- Take your time at the main overlook with views down into the gorge.
- Enjoy wildflowers and lush greenery in spring and early summer.
The trails here are shorter than at Cummins Falls but still offer plenty of scenery. It’s a great stop if you want big views without an all‑day hike.
6. Visit Tennessee Tech University & the Appalachian Center for Craft
Tennessee Tech University gives Cookeville a fun college-town vibe. The campus is nice for a short walk, but the real hidden gem is a few miles away: the
Appalachian Center for Craft, near Center Hill Lake.
This craft center focuses on traditional and modern Appalachian arts, including:
- Glass
- Wood
- Clay
- Fiber
- Metal
You can:
- Browse the gallery and gift shop for handmade pieces.
- Watch artists at work during certain hours.
- Check for workshops or special events if you plan ahead.
If you like supporting local makers and taking home unique souvenirs instead of mass‑produced trinkets, this spot is for you.
7. Eat Your Way Through Cookeville’s Local Restaurants
Cookeville may be a smaller city, but its
food scene surprises a lot of visitors. You’ll find everything from classic Southern comfort food to trendy coffee shops and craft beer.
Some ideas to get you started:
- Local diners: Grab a meat‑and‑three plate, biscuits and gravy, or fried catfish.
- BBQ joints: Try pulled pork, ribs, and all the smoky sides.
- Bakeries & coffee shops: Perfect for a slow morning before you hit the trails.
- Breweries & pubs: Sip local beer and listen to live music in the evening.
If you like to structure your day around where you’re eating next (no judgment!), Cookeville makes that very easy.
8. Take a Scenic Drive Through Putnam County
Sometimes the best part of a trip is the drive itself. The countryside around Cookeville is full of rolling hills, farms, and river valleys.
Consider:
- A loop drive that connects Cookeville, Baxter, and Monterey.
- Pulling over at overlooks and small churches for photos.
- Stopping at local produce stands in season for fresh peaches, tomatoes, or jams.
In fall, the colors along these backroads can be stunning. Think shades of gold, red, and orange across the hills. Even a simple one‑hour drive can feel like a reset button.
9. Play & Relax at Center Hill Lake or Dale Hollow Lake (Easy Day Trips)
While not technically in Cookeville, both
Center Hill Lake and
Dale Hollow Lake are popular day trips for visitors staying in Putnam County.
Center Hill Lake (about 30–40 minutes away) offers:
- Boat rentals at marinas.
- Swimming coves and picnic areas.
- Fishing for bass and crappie.
Dale Hollow Lake (about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on where you go) is famous for:
- Very clear water.
- Houseboat rentals.
- Great fishing and quiet coves.
If you’re planning a long weekend in the Cookeville area, consider spending one day on the lake and another exploring the waterfalls and downtown.
10. Catch a Local Event, Festival, or Live Show
Cookeville and Putnam County host a variety of events throughout the year. Depending on when you visit, you might stumble onto:
- Downtown festivals with food trucks and live music.
- Seasonal markets with local crafts and produce.
- Performances at local theaters or on the Tennessee Tech campus.
Before your trip, check community calendars or the Cookeville visitors’ website to see what’s happening. A normal weekend can turn into something special if you time it with a local event.
Planning Your Trip to Cookeville, Tennessee
To make the most of your visit to Cookeville and Putnam County:
- How long to stay: A weekend is enough to hit the highlights, but 3–4 days lets you see more waterfalls and lakes.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Most of the best outdoor spots are a short drive from town.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal for hiking. Summer is perfect for swimming and lake days. Winter is quieter and cooler, but some trails can still be nice.
If you enjoy small towns, nature, and friendly people, Cookeville is a great base for exploring the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee.
What Will You Do First in Cookeville?
Will you start with a waterfall hike at
Cummins Falls or a slow coffee in the
WestSide District? Maybe a lake day at
Center Hill is more your style.
Whatever you choose, Cookeville, Tennessee offers a nice mix of adventure and relaxation without big‑city crowds or big‑city prices.
If you found this guide helpful:
- Share it with a friend or family member who loves road trips and hidden‑gem towns.
- Comment below with your favorite thing to do in Cookeville or Putnam County, or ask a question if you’re planning a trip and need ideas.
Your tips and stories can help other travelers discover the best of Cookeville, TN!
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