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With its captivating historic sites, fun family activities, recreation opportunities, and exciting shopping and dining destinations, Sumner County is the place to come for a vacation that’s truly unforgettable.

1/Claim-to-Fame Attractions
One of the first things visitors to Sumner County notice is the sparkling water of Old Hickory Lake. The lake – and the trophy fish that swim in it – lures fishermen by the boatload. But fishermen aren’t the only ones reeling in the good times from this Middle Tennessee jewel. Old Hickory Lake spawns memorable moments from romantic moonlit cruises to camping with the kids.

Located just north of Nashville, this area also is home to some of country music’s brightest stars. You never know when you might run into Taylor Swift, Ricky Skaggs or one of the Oak Ridge Boys – all current Sumner County residents.

In Hendersonville, free tours of Trinity Music City USA, home of the Trinity Broadcast Network, include a stop at the estate and gardens of country music superstar Conway Twitty, who originally built the complex.

2/Historic Connections
For history buffs, Sumner County’s numerous historic landmarks are popular destinations.

Historic Mansker’s Station in Goodlettsville features the reconstructed Mansker’s Fort, which was originally built in 1779, and the Bowen Plantation House, the oldest standing brick structure in Middle Tennessee, built in 1787. Costumed interpreters are on hand to demonstrate the lifestyle of 18th-century settlers.

Visitors to Cragfont in Castalian Springs can stand where Andrew Jackson, Sam Houston and other historic figures dined and danced at the home of their host, Gen. James Winchester. Built in 1802, Cragfont was considered the finest house on the Tennessee frontier.

The 22-inch thick walls of Rock Castle, circa 1794, were built from limestone blocks quarried near the Hendersonville home of Daniel Smith. Rock Castle contains authentic period furnishings and Smith’s letters and 200-volume library.

Must-see historic sites in Gallatin include the elegant, mid-1800s mansion Rose Mont – a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture, the beautifully restored Palace Theater and the three-story Sumner County Museum, which features artifacts from prehistory through the present day.

3/Fun for the Family
The whole family will enjoy the old-time music, games and period goods at Bledsoe’s Fort Colonial Fair, held in May at Bledsoe’s Fort Historic Park in Castalian Springs.

From there, it’s just a few miles to Bledsoe Creek State Park, located on the banks of Old Hickory Lake. The park offers roomy, level campsites with 50-amp electric hookups, fire rings and picnic tables. It also has boat launches, fishing, hiking trails and a day use area.

Everyone loves to get out on the water aboard one of Captain Jesse’s Cumberland River Cruises on Old Hickory Lake. Whether he’s piloting a kids’ cruise, sunset or moonlight cruise, or hosting a family reunion or private party, Captain Jesse knows how to show off the lake.

Hayrides, corn mazes and farm-related fun at area agritourism destinations are also popular with the family set. There’s nothing quite like picking your own fruits, berries, vegetables, herbs and flowers at local farms, including Bottom View Farm in Portland, Bradley Kountry Acres in Cottontown and Red Chief Orchard in Gallatin.

Gathering eggs, petting the animals and learning how to catch rainwater are among the bonus offerings at all-organic Madison Creek Farms in Goodlettsville.

For a change of pace, check out the disc golf course at Sanders Ferry Park or Drakes Creek Activity Center in Hendersonville; it offers miniature golf, outdoor laser tag, a climbing wall, hot air balloon rides and a game room. Score bowling and a whole lot more at Strike & Spare Family Fun Centers in Hendersonville and Gallatin.

Walking and biking trails and top-notch golf courses are scattered throughout Sumner County.

4/Shop & Dine
And there’s no need to go home empty-handed.

Shoppers should pay a visit to Gallatin’s historic town square to browse antique shops and trendy boutiques.

In Hendersonville, try Patricia Jane & Co. for gifts and fashion accessories, and shop till you drop at the Streets of Indian Lake outdoor shopping center, with retailers such as J. Jill, Coldwater Creek, Jos. A. Bank and more.

In May, a unique shopping event draws bargain hunters from all over: The Tennessee Highway 52 Yard Sale stretches for more than 80 miles and spans the width of the county.

At The Gossett House in Portland, guests can shop and dine under one roof – at Occasions boutique and 5 Chefs restaurant, whose signature strawberry cake is to die for.

In fact, palate-pleasing restaurant selections that range from down-home Southern cooking to upscale elegance insure visitors to Sumner County won’t leave hungry.

Meat-and-three accompanied by live music and dancing is on the menu at Long Hollow Jamboree in Goodlettsville. In Hendersonville, Barefoot Charlie’s offers lakeside patio dining, and September’s serves American cuisine with an eclectic flair. Ladies – and gentlemen – love to take high tea at Gallatin’s English Garden Tea Room.

More Info on Sumner County

As of May 9, 2010, the contest is now closed. Visit www.sumnercvb.com to learn more about Sumner County attractions.

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Magazine:
Tennessee Home & Farm, Summer 2010 Edition Edition

Headline:
Sumner Co. Sparkle

Summary:
Get away to where the fish are jumping and the living is easy

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