As summer rolls in, many of us are on the hunt for things our families can safely do this season (and hopefully include a few friends in the mix).
Enter Hop Springs. Over the last three and a half years, its team has created an incredible destination that's a perfect addition to the summer bucket list. Yes, it's a brewery, and yes, I'm enouraging you to take the kids! Because more than just a spot for great beer, it's also a fantastic outdoor experience for all ages.
Check out these 8 reasons to love Hop Springs.
1. Community
With the tagline "let adventure flow" the Hop Springs creed is all about fostering community and extraordinary experiences. Brewmaster Derrick Morse commented that, “We really wanted to create a place for people to go, to hang out, to be a place where you could literally spend all day and not spend more than 40 or 50 bucks. We’re all about creating extraordinary experiences, and that’s what we work for.” There are no parking fees or minimum purchase requirements here; simply the invitation to show up and play.
2. The Land
Since “space” is at premium these days, Hop Springs is an ideal greenspace destination. What was once more than 80 acres of cow pasture now offers an 18 hole disc golf course, a beautiful dog park, three miles of walking trails, and wide open spaces for picnicking, playing corn hole, flying kites, you name it. This is social-distancing at its best.
3. Disc Golf
You’ve got to try this—and get ready for a workout! Created by pro field designer Will Schusterick, the course takes players in and out of the property’s hills and fields for some challenging and incredibly satisfying throws. Bring your own discs or purchase a few in the tap room.
4. Trails
Think walking trail with a little bit of a hiker’s challenge. Grownups and kids alike will have fun tracing the trails and taking in local wildlife along the way. Bring the binoculars, bikes, and bug spray, and get ready to explore.
5. Dog-friendly
When I say the whole family will love it, that includes fur babies! Whether it's letting Fido run around the property or just socialize in the spacious fenced and shaded dog park area, it's a great spot for four-footed family members to have some summer fun, too.
6. On-Site Catering
Even for those who don't imbibe, On-Site Catering's food truck is itself a worthy reason to visit. Mouthwatering staples like the house-made dry-rubbed wings and woodfired pizzas (gluten-free folks can get a cauliflower crust), as well as other creative specials like loaded mac 'n' cheese are available daily. Place your order and pick up a pager to let you know when your order is waiting, then settle in on the porch overlooking the property for a delicious alfresco dining experience. Check out the latest menu offerings on the Hop Springs Facebook page.
7. Music
While music nights and the all-inclusive Americana-music nights were canceled during Safer at Home, a new outdoor stage will be completed this summer to keep the music flowing. Keep an eye on their website and FB page for upcoming performances and opportunities to jam.
8. The Brews
it might be THE reason to visit Hop Springs (though certainly not the only one), and yes, it's a very, very good reason. Steel Barrel Brewery (the name of the actual brewing facility and tap room on site) features an array of signature flavors including the Americana pale ale, Raider IPA, the popular Johnny Red and the darker Pioneer. Choose from a rotating selection on tap behind the live wood bar, or grab some cold cans from the coolers, and don't forget the timely brews "Social Distance" and "Hospitality Strong."
Kiddos and non-drinkers can choose from an ample stock of Coke and juice products, or sip the house-made root beer on tap. Guests can relax with drinks inside the tap room with its high ceiling and open air seating, or just visit on the wrap-around porch if not rambling on the property. There's not a bad spot here.
Hop Springs is located at 6670 John Bragg Hwy, Murfreesboro, and is currently open Wednesday-Sunday, 1-9pm (subject to change). Learn more at their website hopspringstn.com and follow their Facebook adn Instagram pages for updates, special menus, and events.
Laura Beth Payne is a writer mama living in the Blackman Community of Murfreesboro with her husband Nathan and their two children. Follow @murfreesboromama on Facebook and Instagram for more family fun in and around the city.
