La Vergne, Tennessee: 10 Fun Things to Do Nearby

10 Fun Things To Do Near La Vergne, Tennessee (Rutherford County)

Looking for ideas on what to do in and around La Vergne, Tennessee? You’re in a great spot. This small city in Rutherford County sits right between Nashville and Murfreesboro, which means you get the best of both worlds: quiet suburban life and big-city fun just a short drive away. Whether you live in La Vergne or you’re just visiting friends and family, here are 10 things to do near La Vergne that are easy, fun, and perfect for a day or weekend adventure.

1. Relax by the Water at Hurricane Creek Recreation Area (La Vergne)

If you want something close to home, start right here in La Vergne at Hurricane Creek Recreation Area on Percy Priest Lake. You’ll find:
  • Picnic tables and grills
  • A quiet shoreline to sit and relax
  • Easy access to the water
On a warm day, it’s the perfect spot to:
  • Bring a picnic lunch
  • Let the kids run around
  • Watch the boats go by
It’s not a huge, crowded park, and that’s part of the charm. If you’ve had a long week, this is a simple, low-stress way to reset without driving far.

2. Go Boating and Fishing at Fate Sanders Marina (Just Minutes Away)

Just a short drive from La Vergne on Percy Priest Lake, Fate Sanders Marina is a local favorite for anyone who loves being on the water. Here you can:
  • Rent a boat or launch your own
  • Go fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish
  • Grab a bite at the marina grill
If you’ve never fished before, this is a great place to try it. You don’t have to be a pro—cast a line, enjoy the fresh air, and see what happens. Early morning on the lake, with the sun just coming up, is hard to beat.

3. Walk, Play, and Unwind at Veterans Memorial Park (La Vergne)

Need something easy and family-friendly right in town? Veterans Memorial Park in La Vergne is a solid go-to. You’ll find:
  • Walking trails
  • Playground equipment
  • Sports fields
  • Plenty of green space
On weeknights, you’ll often see kids’ games, families walking dogs, and neighbors chatting by the bleachers. If you like to get in a quick walk after work, this park makes it simple. It’s also a nice place to throw a football or kick a soccer ball around.

4. Cool Off at the La Vergne Splash Pad (Perfect for Kids)

When the Tennessee summer hits and the humidity climbs, there’s one place every La Vergne family has on speed dial: the La Vergne Splash Pad at Veterans Memorial Park. Kids can:
  • Run through fountains and spray features
  • Burn off energy while staying cool
  • Make new friends in a safe, open space
Parents love it because:
  • It’s cheaper and easier than a water park
  • You can sit nearby and still keep an eye on the kids
  • It’s close to home—no long road trip needed
If you’re wondering what to do on a hot Saturday with little ones, this is an easy win.

5. Explore the Stones River National Battlefield (Murfreesboro)

About 20–25 minutes from La Vergne, just down I‑24, you’ll find Stones River National Battlefield in Murfreesboro. If you like history—or just want a peaceful place to walk—this is worth the short drive. Here you can:
  • Learn about a major Civil War battle that took place right here in Rutherford County
  • Walk or bike along the paved trails
  • Visit the national cemetery and visitor center
You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy it. The open fields, old stone walls, and quiet trails give you a look at the past and a nice place to stretch your legs. It’s also a good spot to teach kids a bit of local history in a way that feels real, not just like reading a textbook.

6. Shop, Eat, and Stroll in Downtown Murfreesboro

If you’re in the mood for local flavor, head to the Historic Murfreesboro Square, about a 20–30 minute drive from La Vergne. Around the square you’ll find:
  • Locally owned restaurants and coffee shops
  • Unique boutiques and antique stores
  • Seasonal events, markets, and festivals
You can grab a burger or a slice of pizza, then wander in and out of shops. On nice evenings, it’s fun just to people-watch and enjoy the small-town feel, even though you’re in one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing cities. If you’re planning a date night near La Vergne, this area gives you plenty of choices without driving all the way into downtown Nashville.

7. Get Outdoors at Long Hunter State Park (Nearby on Percy Priest Lake)

Just across the lake, roughly 15–25 minutes from La Vergne depending on your route, is Long Hunter State Park—one of Middle Tennessee’s best spots for simple outdoor fun. The park offers:
  • Easy hiking trails (some under 2 miles)
  • Lake views and quiet coves
  • Picnic areas and shelters
  • Boating and fishing access
If you’re not a hardcore hiker, don’t worry. Many of the trails are flat and well-marked, so they’re great for families, beginners, or anyone who just wants to get a few thousand steps in while enjoying the breeze off the water. Bring:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Water and snacks
  • A light jacket in spring or fall
It’s an easy half-day or full-day trip from La Vergne that feels surprisingly peaceful considering how close you are to the city.

8. Experience Nashville Nightlife and Live Music (About 25–30 Minutes Away)

One huge perk of living in or visiting La Vergne? You’re only about a 25–30 minute drive from downtown Nashville, depending on traffic. If you want big-city energy, you can:
  • Walk along Broadway and listen to live music pouring out of nearly every bar
  • Catch a concert or Predators game at Bridgestone Arena
  • Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame
Here’s the nice part: you get to enjoy the excitement of Nashville, then head back to the calmer, quieter feel of La Vergne at the end of the night. If you’re planning a visit, think about:
  • Going into Nashville for an evening
  • Spending the next day relaxing by Percy Priest Lake near La Vergne
It’s a great combo trip—especially if you’re hosting friends from out of state who want a taste of “Music City” while still seeing what everyday life in Tennessee is like.

9. Catch a Show or Game at Middle Tennessee State University (Murfreesboro)

In nearby Murfreesboro, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) brings a lot of energy and events to Rutherford County—and that’s good news if you’re in La Vergne. Throughout the year, you’ll find:
  • College football and basketball games
  • Plays, concerts, and dance performances
  • Art exhibits and guest lectures
You don’t have to be a student to enjoy the campus. Going to a Blue Raiders football game on a crisp fall afternoon or a concert at one of the campus venues is a fun, affordable night out. If you like staying local but still want “big event” vibes from time to time, MTSU is a great resource.

10. Explore Local Eats, Festivals, and Small-Town Flavor in La Vergne

Finally, don’t overlook the local life right in La Vergne. Around town, you can:
  • Try local restaurants and family-owned spots for barbecue, Southern comfort food, and more
  • Check out city events like holiday celebrations, parades, or community festivals
  • Visit nearby farmers markets in season for fresh produce and handmade goods
One of the best parts of La Vergne is how it blends cultures and backgrounds. You may find:
  • Mexican, Asian, and soul food spots side by side
  • Small bakeries with treats you won’t see in big chains
  • Friendly service where people remember your face
Spend a weekend just driving around town, trying a new place to eat, or stopping by a local event. You might be surprised by how much is going on in this “small” city.

Planning Your Time in and Around La Vergne

One of the best things about La Vergne, Tennessee, is location. You’re:
  • Right on Percy Priest Lake for boating, fishing, and relaxing by the water
  • Close to Murfreesboro for history, shopping, and college events
  • A short drive from Nashville for music, nightlife, and big attractions
You can easily mix and match:
  • Morning hike at Long Hunter State Park
  • Afternoon on the splash pad or at Hurricane Creek
  • Evening dinner on the Murfreesboro Square or in downtown Nashville
Whether you’re planning a weekend visit or looking for new things to do near where you live, La Vergne and Rutherford County give you plenty of options without long drives or complicated planning.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite La Vergne Ideas!

Do you live in La Vergne or visit often? What’s your favorite thing to do in or near La Vergne, Tennessee? Maybe it’s:
  • A hidden fishing spot
  • Your go-to local restaurant
  • A yearly festival you never miss
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—they help other travelers and locals discover new places. And if you found this list of 10 things to do near La Vergne, TN helpful, please:
  • Share this post with friends or family who are planning a visit
  • Bookmark it for your next free weekend
La Vergne may not always make the big travel headlines, but once you start exploring, you’ll see it’s a pretty great base for lake days, city nights, and everything in between.

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