March 29, 2021
Tullahoma is known as “Tennessee’s Rising Star.” A town born from the railroad, Tullahoma has grown to become a world leader in flight and engineering research, and it has a few secrets that keep people talking. From coffee shops, breweries, distilleries, restaurants, and numerous lakes and state natural areas, Tullahoma is a small town just waiting for you to discover its uniqueness.
Where to Stay
Tims Ford State Park
Book a comfortable cabin at Tims Ford State Park. You’ll enjoy a two-bedroom, one-bath cabin with an oven, stove, microwave, full-size refrigerator, coffee maker, linens and more. Take in the beautiful views of Tims Ford Lake from your porch, then enjoy the family-friendly offerings in the park including a playground, hiking trails that lead to suspension bridges, Bear Trace Golf Course (part of the Jack Nicklaus-designed collection), and a marina where you can rent boats and load up on snacks.
The Grand Lux Inn
Conveniently located to downtown Tullahoma, The Grand Lux Inn is a historic hotel with six suites and continental breakfast. Each room comes with a queen-sized bed, armoires and writing desks, flat screen television, full private baths and 24-hour access to the full kitchen. The inn features a beautiful wrap around porch, luxe common spaces and also has two apartments if you want to enjoy an extended stay.
What to do
Beechcraft Heritage Museum
Spend some time at Beechcraft Heritage Museum, reopening May 4, 2021. The 60,000-square-foot facility houses historic memorabilia and more than 35 aircraft. The museum follows the lineage of the Beechcraft legacy including original collections from the Beech family, the first Beechcraft, a 1929 Travel Air “Mystery Ship” and aircraft ranging from 1924 to 1994 including Barons, Starship and Staggerwings.
Short Springs Natural Area
Saturday afternoons are for hiking, so make your way to Short Springs Natural Area to conquer the Machine Falls trail, a 1.6-mile loop with a gorgeous waterfall that you can wade in, located in the middle of the hike. The hike includes a steep incline coming out of the ravine, so use caution on your way back.
Grandaddy’s Farm - Estill Springs
If you're visiting in the fall, stop by Grandaddy's Farm to get your fill of seasonal goodness. They have a corn maze, hayrides, animals, eats, and other activities and special events. Check out the website to find out what's going on each autumn weekend.
Ole Shed Brewing Company
Founded in 2011, Ole Shed Brewing Company is the perfect oasis after hiking Machine Falls. Try a flight of their beer selection, which includes a number of pale ales, IPAs, porters and a golden ale that has a hint of a honey flavor. The covered outdoor area is a perfect spot to sip a cold beer and play giant Jenga and cornhole, or relax with friends.
Whiskey Trail BBQ and Steakhouse
Go to Whiskey Trail BBQ and Steakhouse for mouthwatering barbecue from brisket to fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs. Start your meal with the Whiskey Trail wings or the pork, chicken or brisket cowboy quesadilla. If you're craving a salad, order the pulled pork salad with dried cranberries, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, cheddar cheese and croutons served with a raspberry vinaigrette. Dig in to the ribs, brisket, chicken or pulled pork,riblet dinner, smoked bologna sandwich, sirloin or ribeye steaks. Savor sides like mac n cheese, fried okra, loaded potato salad and sweet potato casserole. You'll want to finish your meal with an apple, peach, cherry or chocolate handmade fried pie.
One22West
You’ll love the food and atmosphere served up at One22West. The restaurant is beautiful, the menu has many delicious choices, and it’s a great place to watch football and hang out with friends and family. One22West is located on the town square and has been open since 1997, so you know it’s good. Start off with fried ravioli or nachos with creamy queso as an appetizer then order the salmon filet, filet mignon or parmesan crusted chicken. Traveling with kids? One22West has a children’s menu with favorites like grilled cheese, chicken tenders and pasta. Save room for dessert like the cheesecake or gluten-free chocolate torte.
Donut Palace
Delicious donuts can be found in downtown Tullahoma.
Photo Credit: Josh Ness
Want to give your day a sweet start? Go to Donut Palace where you’ll find a variety of donuts freshly made each day. From traditional glazed to seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice donuts in the fall, the Donut Palace is a gem in Tullahoma.
Gondola Pizza & Steakhouse Restaurant
Order takeout or dine in at Gondola. Gondola is a family-owned and -operated restaurant that uses traditional family recipes and ingredients. Made-from-scratch dishes include pizzas, steaks cut in-house and more.
The Celtic Cup Coffee House
Some of the best breakfast can be found at Celtic Cup.
Photo Credit: Josh Ness
The Celtic Cup Coffee House is one of the best place in Tullahoma to get fantastic coffee accompanied by great breakfast options while simultaneously feeling like you’ve traveled to another country. The moment you step inside, the decor and music transport you to an Irish pub. Enjoy an English toasty – grilled ham or sausage with aged cheddar cheese on a grilled English muffin or one of the three varieties of the house quiche – Lorraine, Florentine or house original three-cheese and herbs. Pair it with an espresso macchiato or espresso con panna, bonfire mocha, cold brew or matcha latte.
Locals love Emil’s for dinner in Tullahoma. Open since 2001, chef and owner Georges Martin is a native of France where he also completed culinary training. He and his wife, Tammy, are passionate about bringing fine, quality dining to Middle Tennessee. Chef Georges specializes in fresh food prepared honestly with consistency, elegance and love. Located next door to The Grand Lux Inn, this is not a place to miss.
Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. - Cascade Hollow
The southern hospitality at this distillery makes this a must-stop place close to Tullahoma in beautiful Cascade Hollow. Located on the statewide Tennessee Whiskey Trail, Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. specializes in keeping the legacy of George Dickel Tennessee Whisky alive and well. Take a tour of the facility where you’ll see behind the curtain on how the whisky is made. After you see the process, have a taste and take a bottle home for yourself.
Spend a few days exploring these and more fun spots in Tullahoma. Start planning your trip to discover adventure and things to do.
