23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Gallatin (TN)

Gallatin is a remarkable city in Sumner County, Tennessee. It is also the county’s seat. This United States city had a population of 44,431 in 2020.

Gallatin is situated on the northern banks of the raging Cumberland River. It is known for its history and various outdoor recreation opportunities. Gallatin has an area of 84.56 square kilometers and a history that dates back to the 1800s.

Imagine a city with broad avenues lined with trees, recognizable landmarks and buildings over a century old, museums, and a ton of lush, rolling parks and gardens. That city is Gallatin, TN.

The attractions to see and activities to do in Gallatin are as extensive as the city’s splendor. Culture lovers and daring outdoor enthusiasts will adore it.

Let’s explore the top things to do in Gallatin, TN

Things To Do In Gallatin, TN

1. Bledsoe Creek State Park

The Bledsoe Creek State Park is the place to go if you want to engage in outdoor activities in Gallatin.

The 169 acres of Bledsoe Creek State Park is a leisure location ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.

Several amenities are available for visitors to enjoy at this Tennessee State Park. There are 60 campsites and miles of hiking paths among the park’s amenities.

Additionally, there are two picnic tables and many play spaces where your kids can run around and have as much fun as they want.

You may even go fishing here because it is close to Old Hickory Lake. As a component of the Old Hickory Dam project, Bledsoe Creek State Park was created primarily for recreational purposes.

It would be best if you visited the Park to find out what else the Park offers. Visiting this Park is one of the best things to do in Gallatin, TN.

Address: 400 Zieglers Fort Road, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

2. Trousdale Place

One of Gallatin’s most beautiful buildings is the old home, Trousdale Place, erected in the 1800s.

William Trousdale, the previous governor of Tennessee, resided in the house. It is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

The place was named Trousdale Place after being granted to the Daughters of the Confederacy.

When there is enough staff, visitors can tour the historic house. Alternatively, they can come during one of the four Open House events held annually in November, April, July, and September.

Visit and behold the magnificent architecture and authentic Trousdale furnishings. The grounds at Trousdale Place are accessible to the public every day from sunrise to nightfall, even though the house itself may not always be

Address: 183 W Main Street, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

3. Rose Mont

One of the beautiful old buildings in the city is Rose Mont, which is owned by the city of Gallatin.

The Greek Revival-style home, built in 1842 for Judge Josephus Conn Guild’s family, was acquired by the city in 1993.

The architecture combines the Palladian and Greek Revival styles, which were popular during the Middle Tennessee homes era. The architectural style distinguishes the location.

Additionally, you may notice Louisiana Creole features like wide porches, open-air hallways, and oversized windows.

The mansion is available for escorted public visits from April 15 until October 31. If you enjoy learning about architecture, you should visit Historic Rose Mont, as it’s one of the top things to do in Gallatin, TN.

Address: 810 S Water Avenue, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

4. Sumner County Museum

Visit the Sumner County Museum for a more comprehensive look at local history. John Garrott’s concept for the Sumner County Museum first took root at Trousdale Place on Main Street in the 1970s.

The Sumner County Museum was established in 1975. This Museum has a variety of relics, including antique fossils, blacksmithing equipment, and even vintage cars.

It houses exhibits of Native American and African American origin, vintage toys, automobiles, quilts, clothing from bygone eras, collections of military relics and firearms, and objects related to music and entertainment.

This Museum has three floors that you can explore, and each is filled with fascinating relics from various eras.

Numerous people have given the Museum a variety of things over the years. A number of the exhibits are local landmarks, including the first pumper fire engine of Gallatin.

The Museum also conducts several events all year long. It also runs a “Travel Trunk” initiative that brought the exhibits to Sumner County school children.

You can get all the historical information about the city and county by going to the Sumner County Museum.

Address: 183 W Main Street, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

5. Historic Stonewall

Gallatin Historic Stonewall is a 5,600-square-foot historic home that has been standing since 1831.

John Garrott, the man behind the Sumner County Museum, lived at the Historic Stonewall before it turned into a multipurpose event location on East Main Street.

Today, tours are offered at the Historic Stonewall. You can get in touch with the museum staff if you wish to find out more or reserve the space.

Address: 332 E Main St, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States.

6. Govan’s Salon & Coffee Cafe

Govan’s Salon & Coffee Cafe, one of Gallatin’s distinctive locations, is located on North Water Avenue in the city’s Historic Downtown Square.

Govan’s was first established as a Salon until its proprietors added a coffee shop to it in 2001.

The salon offers hair color, manicures, and skincare. In the coffee shop, you may choose from various coffees, teas, and a selection of recently baked delicacies.

 Whatever you do, treat yourself at Govan’s Salon & Coffee Cafe.

Address: 116 N Water Ave, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

7. The Palace Theater

Visit the Palace Theater to experience performing arts and history together. It is one of the best places to visit in Gallatin, TN.

The Palace Theater was founded in 1913 and operated successfully as a silent movie theater until 1977, when it closed its doors in 1987.

Under Bill Roth’s management, the Palace Theater flourished as a local theater from 1913 until 1977. The Palace dominated the old downtown plaza for all of those years.

After Mr. Roth passed away in the 1990s, Johnny and Sonny Garrott bought the Theater and eventually gave it to Greater Gallatin, Inc., now known as Historic Downtown Gallatin, Inc.

The Theater was bought in the 1990s, renovated, and reopened its doors in the 2000s. The Theater currently serves as a historical monument in the North Water Avenue neighborhood and hosts movies, live performances, concerts, and other events on its stage.

The attraction has a variety of amenities, including a two-story practice, a backstage area, a 30′ x 80′ screen, etc.

Address: 146 N Water Avenue, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

8. Lock 4 Park.

Check out the amenities at Lock 4 Park if you enjoy cycling or other outdoor sports, as they are among the fun things to do in Gallatin, TN.

Lock 4 Park is located near Lock 4 Road and has many mountain riding tracks. One of the most well-liked trails in Middle Tennessee is the well-maintained 15 km long singletrack path.

The Park has several fishing areas you may try out, as it is situated next to a lake. The Park also provides spots for picnicking. Three locations, called The Point, provide access to the path.

Since it offers fishing spots, a pier, a mountain bike track, a picnic pavilion, and even a model airplane landing strip, it attracts numerous visitors.

Address: 1598 Lock 4 Road, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

Check out our list of things to do in Townsend and things to do in Lebanon for a fun Tennessee trip

9. Nashville SUP & Yoga

Would you like to engage in a different outdoor activity? Then, schedule an appointment with Nashville SUP & Yoga.

Kayak rentals, yoga courses, and other paddling alternatives are available through Nashville SUP & Yoga.

You can try yoga on a paddleboard with Nashville SUP & Yoga. Don’t worry if you don’t have much paddleboarding expertise; you can sign up for sessions to learn.

Nashville SUP & Yoga also provides kid camps during the summer, kayaking, and paddling activities. You should seek Nashville SUP & Yoga at Marina Private Road if you want to try something new.

Address: 727 Marina Pvt Drive, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

10. Triple Creek Park

Triple Creek Park is the best place for a family to enjoy the outdoors. Triple Creek Park is the biggest park in Gallatin, TN, with a total area of about 185 acres.

Triple Creek has many things to do, including sports fields, a dog park, and a picnic area.

It also has playgrounds, walking trails, adult and youth softball fields, soccer fields, tournament-caliber sports complexes, and other amenities.

An 18-hole Frisbee Disc Golf Course is also one of the Park’s distinctive features. In addition, the 185-acre Park serves as a location for regional festivals and contests.

Town Creek Greenway in Gallatin is connected to Triple Creek Park’s greenway. Exploring this Park and its facilities are among the fun things to do in Gallatin, TN.

Address: 1333 Touchdown Dr, Gallatin, TN 615-451-5911, United States

11. Nat Caldwell Park

The federally controlled Nat Caldwell Park in Gallatin is a smaller and less popular Park situated directly on the shores of Old Hickory Lake.

Nat Caldwell Park is not as well-known as some other parks in the city, but it has some entertaining amenities since it is a waterfront park.

This Park offers amenities like a grill-equipped picnic area, kayaking trails, and fishing piers.

It includes grassy, open spaces and a shoreline that is excellent for fishing. The Park is also renowned for its wildlife viewing.

If you’re traveling with family or friends, you can reserve a grill and a shelter for a large picnic.

Nat Caldwell Park is the spot to go if you’re looking for more relaxed places to explore in Gallatin.

Address: Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

12. Douglas-Clark House

Elmore Douglas and his family resided in the Douglas-Clark House, which was constructed in about 1786.

It served as one of the first courthouses in Sumner County between 1788 and 1790. The House hosted court sessions for many of the neighborhood’s original residents.

Andrew Jackson, who subsequently became president, tried several cases in this courthouse during his early career between 1789 and 1790.

The Clark family moved into the house around 1831. Enslaved people resided at the Douglass-Clark House as early as 1790.

It now functions as a museum with significant records that list every enslaved person who called this location home as early as 1790.

The museum chronicles the tale of the family that lived there and influenced the neighborhood’s history. Visitors are welcome to the home. A tour of the Douglass-Clark House is a priceless educational opportunity.

Address: 2115 Long Hollow Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

13. Ramblin’ Bee

The Ramblin’ Bee is one of the many stores you can explore in Gallatin.

The Ramblin’ Bee is a honey house that recently opened its doors to the public. It is situated on East Main Street in the city’s downtown area.

Along with training, it offers a variety of products relating to honey and beekeeping in general.

Infused honey and beeswax candles are just a few items available at this honey shop.

The Ramblin’ Bee is an excellent store for anyone interested in bees and honey.

Address: 220A East Main Street Gallatin TN 37066, United States

14. Square Fest

The springtime Gallatin tradition, Square Fest, is celebrated on the city’s historic downtown square.

The Square Fest is an art and crafts fair held in the spring with a kids’ area, entertainment, and many exhibitors.

At this event, you may browse approximately 200 vendors, indulge in a wide variety of food, and enjoy arts and crafts.

It now boasts more than 200 merchants and more than 25,000 attendees. The festival is primarily arts and crafts fair, but it also features a wide range of food, various non-profit organizations, two stages of entertainment, and a sizable children’s area.

Everyone is welcome to join in the fun. The event typically lasts a little longer than a day. The festival is held in the city’s downtown, where you may attend it in any weather. So bring your family and invite your friends! Admission is free.

Address: 146 N Water Avenue, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

15. Gallatin Farmers Market

Visit the Gallatin Farmer’s Market to treat yourself to regional goods. The Market delivers your products straight from the producers to your shopping bag.

The Market offers the most fantastic seasonal fresh vegetables, fresh baked goods, local honey, farm-raised meats, seafood, jams & jellies, herbs, pickles, honey, farm-fresh eggs, handcrafted pet treats, and locally grown plants.

Locally manufactured artisan products, such as vegan soaps and lotions, leather goods, woodcrafts, candles, jewelry, and more, may be found at the Market along with other beautiful presents and home décor.

The Gallatin Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm during the season. The Saturday market is open from May through October.

Address: 160 W Franklin St, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

Considering a Tennessee road trip, check out our guides on things to do in Brentwood and things to do in Hendersonville for a memorable trip.

16. Gallatin Ghost Walk

Are you looking for what to do in Gallatin, TN? Then, you should participate in Gallatin Ghost Walk. The Gallatin Ghost Walk is one of the activities you will surely enjoy.

The yearly Gallatin Ghost Walk features ghost tales and traditions from Sumner County, which is known for its historical significance. It is centered around the nation’s most haunted public plaza.

It includes tales of paranormal activity in contemporary apartments, haunted homes of early settlers on a new frontier, Civil War ghosts, mysterious caves, and the spirits of Rebel raiders who still ride across small bridges and country roads.

The two-hour walk is a fun way to discover Sumner County’s rich and vital history and to take in a genuinely unsettling ghost story. Of course, there will be a costumed guide to assist you.

The historical tour is offered on Friday and Saturday in October and November.

Address: 122 West Franklin St, Gallatin, TN 615-512-5299., United States

17. Swaney Swift’s on the Square

On Gallatin’s Historic Square is Swaney Swift’s on the Square, a fixture of the area since the 1950s.

Swaney Swift’s started as a drugstore with a soda fountain, but it quickly gained popularity as a hangout for friends to enjoy milkshakes and fun drinks.

The pimento grilled cheese, sweet potato fries, fried pickles, buffalo chicken sandwich, and gourmet burgers with a broad range of toppings are all on the menu at Swaney’s today.

Swaney Swift’s was reopened in 2015. Frequently live music and other entertainment are offered at the destination.

Address: 118 N Water Ave, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

18. Starr Ranch Grill

The Starr Ranch Grill is a large, rustic restaurant with a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere and cattle skulls adorning the walls.

James Lampley, a well-known chef, specializes in modern southern cuisine, fusing classic dishes like fried green tomatoes with excellent cuts of meat.

He also has his unique take on classic comfort foods like meatloaf wrapped in bacon and Smokestack, house-smoked pulled pork on corn cakes that are “hot off the griddle,” served with hand-cut cider slaw and barbecue sauce.

Guests may get almost whatever they want in their full bar, including creative cocktails and “make your own mule” options. In addition, every Friday and Saturday night, live music is performed. Visiting this restaurant with friends and family is one of the best things to do in Gallatin, TN.

Address: 170 N Water Ave, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

19. Tommy Garrott Pool

The Tommy Garrott Pool at the Gallatin Civic Center is famous for being Gallatin, Tennessee’s first zero-depth swimming pool.

The swimming complex, open seven days a week, has three water slides, a splash pad for kids, two refreshment stands, giant umbrellas, spray toys, a water tower, a kids’ train slide, and a party area.

A 167-foot, 134-foot, and 57-foot speed slide are among the three drops of the Tommy Garrott Pool complex. So if you don’t know what to do in Gallatin, TN, cool off at Tommy Garrote Pool.

Food like nachos, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, fries, soft drinks, and freezer pops are available in concession sections.

Address: 210 Albert Gallatin Avenue, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

20. Worthington Galleries

One of the best places to visit in Gallatin, TN, is the outstanding Worthington Galleries, especially if you enjoy fine art.

Worthington Galleries, the most extensive retail fine arts gallery in the whole South, in addition to fine art, also features memorabilia, poster art, mosaic art, ethnographic art, sculptures, textiles, and wall art.

Drawings from the Neoclassical, Baroque, Romantic, and early or late Renaissance periods can all be found here.

Address: 805 Teal Dr, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

21. Long Hollow Golf Course

The Long Hollow Golf Course was opened in Gallatin in 1983 to provide golfers near Middle Tennessee with more accessible and affordable options.

The par-70, 6,100-yard standard 18-hole golf course has a course grade of 66.2 and a length of 6,100 yards from the longest tees.

The Long Hollow Golf Course is open every day. It features a putting green, a driving range, cart sheds, refreshments, and competitions.

Additionally, there are concession stands on the grounds, and the helpful personnel may provide you with strategies for playing your best.

The Golf Course also hosts exclusive group gatherings.

Address: 1080 Long Hollow Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

22. Strike & Spare Family Fun Center

Visit the Strike & Spare Family Fun Center in Hendersonville to learn more about nearby Tennessee choices.

The family fun center offers various entertainment options and a bar and grill area where you can chow down on various appetizers, desserts, and beverages.

This facility has a laser tag arena and bumper cars, among other amenities. It also offers intriguing arcade games, rock climbing, and bowling.

We advise choosing one of the spectacular packages if you want to host a party here. These packages come with an hour of bowling, party supplies, and even an arcade card.

The Strike & Spare Family Fun Center is a must-visit if you want to have a good time with the family.

Address: 90 Volunteer Dr, Hendersonville, TN 37075, United States

23. Cumberland River Cruises

Cumberland River Cruises, based at the Gallatin Marina, provides a variety of boating excursions for most of the year.

Why not cruise the Cumberland River if you want to discover the city and enjoy yourself with your family?

Cumberland River cruises allow visitors to see charming ports and the picturesque Tennessee countryside.

The Sunset, Homes, and Nature Cruises are the three main cruises on offer. While tours leave daily, private party reservations are only accepted Monday through Wednesday.

On Old Hickory Lake, Cumberland River Cruises also offers scenic, family-friendly pontoon boat trips, which are available daily with reservations for groups of one to six individuals from Wednesday through Sunday.

They typically start or end in Nashville. American Queen Steamboat Company and American Cruise Lines Queen of the Mississippi are options.

Book a tour to see the lovely Gallatin Marina and observe Tennessee from a unique, peaceful vantage point.

Address: 727 Marina Pvt Dr, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States

Check out other cities in Tennessee, here is  a list of things to do in Gatlinburg, things to do in Murfreesboro, and fun things to do in Fairfield Glade for a fun time

Plan Your Trip to Gallatin

Visit Gallatin to take in the scenery and learn about history. There are plenty of fascinating historical tales for you to discover in this charming city.

The city has several locations where you may go shopping and try out various activities.

Consider making Gallatin, Tennessee, your next destination if you want to explore a city with many stories and hidden beauties.