It's no secret most of us are a little cooped up and a touch stir-crazy right now. And while there's no doubt that quarantine has its blessings, as my own family has found, there comes a moment when looking at a different patch of grass and different walls might be nice.
To date, outdoor exercise is still getting the green light from state and local officials, so take advantage of the city's inviting outdoor spaces for a healing dose of nature, art, education, and some much-needed fresh air.
Just be sure to check websites for any changes in public access before you go, and of course do all the preventative things -- wash or gel hands frequently and maintain 6 feet or more between yourself and any non-family members.
While green spaces are still open to the public, do note that play areas for children are currently roped off to prevent the spread of Covid-19. You may need to redirect eager little people from the temptation, and just come prepared to play with toys from home!
1. Oaklands Mansion
Head over to the historic home's beautifully cultivate grounds for a walk, run or bike with the family. For an educational outting, peruse the arboretum which hosts more than 70 trees known to live in Tennessee and look over the wetlands shaded by a historic forest. Read the identification markers and complete the "Tree Hunt" scavenger hunt (copies of which are on the porch of the visitors center), or pick up an "Architectural Scavenger Hunt" to help you identify the details the of the Italianate house.
2. Sinking Creek Farm
Ginger and Danny Demonbreum have opened up their suburban organic farm and event venue to allow families a safe place to stroll during these days of quarantine. Reservations are required (no chance of too many people at one time) by emailing, but admission is free. Kids will love watching and listening the creek run through the property, and families can get some stellar shots with the property's flower clusters, murals, and whimsical photo props. Email solfoodg@gmail.com to reserve a time.
3. The Stones River Greenway
Load up wagons, scooters, bikes and skates to take on any one of the Stones River Greenway's 13 trailheads. While park play areas are roped off, kids can still have plenty of fun roaming spacious green fields and climbing boulders at most trailheads (and don't forget to bring the Frisbee and some balls!) Use the trailhead map to locate canoe and kayak put-ins as well. Want a little extra help exploring? Use The Friends of the Greenway scavenger hunt sheet to guide your visit! Click here.
4. Hop Springs
The brewery sits on 84 acres complete with a dog park, a 3k trail, and a 9-hole disc golf course. Mom and dad can also pick up one (or more) of their signature brews via the drive-thru before heading home!
5. Readyville Mill
While eating out right now means literally "eating out-side of any restaurant," it's nice when you can combine a meal with a gorgeous setting. The Readyville Mill in historic Cannon County not only serves up a mean gourmet Southern menu (updated on their FB page and available for take-out), it also offers visitors a fun ramble around 6 acres along Stones River. Explore the 200-year-old mill and its adjacent buildings, pose for photo ops next to old farm equipment and take in wild flowers blooming along the property.
6. Stones River Battlefield Trails
History buffs, nature enthusiasts, and wiggly kids alike can enjoy visiting the hallowed grounds of the battlefield. Take the whole crew walking, running or riding along the many beautiful paved and unpaved trails, and see the sweeping scope of indigenous flora and fauna that make their home there. While the visitor's center and restrooms are closed, guests are still welcome onsite to explore. Picnics at specific areas are also permitted (just be sure to clean up everything). Check out recommended visitor guidelines here.
7. Mural Shoot
If you're familiar with my page, you know I'm alllll about the murals! Get some inspiration from my starter list from the fall here, and then follow popular artists like The Iron Brush Mural Company, Rhino Virus, and Murfreesboro Murals on social media for their latest on-location creations downtown, at The Avenue, Donut Country, and more! Then dress up the kids and head to the car for a fun, funky, one-of-a-kind photo shoot around town.
What other outdoor activities is your family loving right now? Comment and share below to inspire other readers (I think we can all use all the inspiration we can get right now!)
