Now that summer’s here, thoughts turn to vacations, cookouts and family outings. Rising fuel prices don’t have to keep you from having fun. Some of the most memorable summer activities are those that are simple, relaxing and inexpensive. Add one or two of these each week to your list of summer things to do, and make a few memories right here at home.
Trinity Music City USA – Originally built by country superstar Conway Twitty, this complex is now owned by Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN). Tour the studios, see a religious film in the Virtual Reality Theater, tour Twitty’s home and browse the gift shop. Grab a snack at the Rock Solid Bistro overlooking the garden’s water features. Open 11 am – 6 pm, Tuesday – Saturday, 1 – 6 pm Sunday, free. 1 Music Village Blvd, Hendersonville, 615-826-9191.
Sumner County Museum – Get in out of the heat and explore Sumner County history. Three floors of interesting displays including prehistoric artifacts, antique toys, World War II and military gear, music/entertainment displays, period clothing and a car/truck collection complete with a vintage fire engine. Wednesday – Saturday 9 am – 4:30 pm, Sunday 1 – 4:30 pm, $3 adults, $1 children. 183 West Main, Gallatin, 615-451-3738.
Greenways & Walking Trails – Early morning or late afternoon walks will keep you in shape this summer without gym fees. For a change of scenery, try each of the pretty greenways and walking trails in Sumner County’s parks. Contact each city for details: Gallatin, 615-451-5911; Hendersonville, 615-822-3898; White House, 615-672-4350; Portland, 615-325-6776; Goodlettsville, 615-851-2253.
Old Hickory Lake Visitor Center – A trip to Old Hickory Dam is an excellent way to learn more about the history, navigational facilities, management programs, and recreational facilities of Old Hickory Lake. Interactive displays feature water safety, resources management and memorabilia. Pack a picnic lunch and eat in Rockland Park by the lake. 9 am – 4 pm, Monday – Friday, free. 5 Power Plant Road, Hendersonville, 615-822-4846.
Lock 4 Bike Trail – For a challenge, bring your bike and try the mountain bike trail, known for XTERRA and triathlon events, featuring a 9 mile base course and a kid’s course. Lock 4 Park also has picnic areas and you can walk along the shores of Old Hickory Lake. Sunrise to sunset daily, free. Lock 4 Road, Gallatin, 615-451-5911.
Bledsoe Fort Historical Park – This beautiful 80-acre park features a self-guided walking tour along a portion of the original Avery Trace, with an Irish stone cottage, 1700’s log cabin and the site of Bledsoe Fort. Take along a picnic lunch to eat under the covered pavilion. Open sunrise to sunset daily, free. Hwy. 25, Castalian Springs, 615-452-5463.
Bledsoe Creek State Park – Enjoy nature on beautiful wooded acreage along the shores of Old Hickory Lake, with 6 miles of hiking trails including 1 mile paved handicapped accessible. Watch for deer or turkey and ask the ranger for birdwatching tips. Bring along some hot dogs to grill for lunch while the kids play on the playground. 7 am to sunset, free day use area. Camping available, overnight fee. 400 Zieglers Fort Road, Gallatin, 615-452-3706.
Monthaven – Another cool way to spend a hot afternoon or rainy day, browsing the rotating exhibits of the Hendersonville Arts Council galleries. This summer see the art of William Lee Golden, and the creations of Lakeshore Quilters, along with other artists and a gift shop. Open 9 am – 3 pm, Monday – Friday, free. 109 Monthaven Blvd, Hendersonville, 615-822-0789.
Bonus: Sumner County historic sites admissions are only $5 or $6 for adults, with children $3 and $4. Cragfont, Rose Mont, Mansker’s Fort & Bowen House, and Rock Castle offer tours and tell the stories of how our area was settled and the people who lived here in the early 1800’s. Find details and links under Things to Do - Historic Sites.
For more ideas, summer programs, free concerts, and a list of special events, see the Events Calendar or call 615-230-8474.