Tennessee's Charming City Near Nashville Once Dubbed 'The Nicest Place In America' Is A Lovely Outdoor Escape

It's safe to say that most people coming to Middle Tennessee are there to see Nashville, a city where even the most underrated neighborhoods are full of dive bars, old-school charm, and green spaces. But for those who feel a bit lost between all the big city noise and tourist chaos, there are some lovely, quiet hubs not too far away that still promise all the historic attractions and great eats you've come to expect from these parts of the state. Gallatin, in particular, stands out so much with its perfect blend of city-esque allure and outdoor attractions that it was once named "the nicest place in America" by Reader's Digest.

And thanks to its proximity to the state capital, Gallatin is very easy to reach. Most visitors come through Nashville International Airport, which is just a 35-minute drive away via I-40 and TN-109. Those coming by car can drive in via I-65S from Kentucky, too, but since the city is so close to a major airport and rentals there are pretty reasonably priced (starting at just $30 a day), flying is always a great option. As soon as you arrive, you'll get to explore the livelier-than-you'd-expect town square, historic architecture, the Palace Theater, and, of course, the scenic Old Hickory Lake, and your visit's just begun.

Your first stop in Gallatin should be none other than its historic downtown, where 19th-century brick buildings have now turned into boutiques, antique shops, and mom-and-pop restaurants. The Palace Theatre, built back in 1913, is Tennessee's oldest silent movie theater that's still in operation, and today it's a proper cultural landmark that hosts films, concerts, and even community events. If the history aspect of it all interests you, try adding Trousdale Place to your itinerary, too. Once the home of Tennessee Governor William Trousdale, this Federal-style house, built in 1813, is now a museum that showcases period furnishings, Civil War memorabilia, and an expansive collection of antique textiles.

For a piece of that retro charm, make sure to stop by Towne Square Records & Comics or Tennessee Honey Boutique & Gifts. The former is a collectibles store beloved for its kind, knowledgeable owner and fair prices. It doesn't hurt that the vinyl collection is great, too. The latter is closer to your typical boutique, but with an added layer of charm thanks to its warm atmosphere and kind staff. Customers also rave about the clothing quality.

Foodies can't miss out on Swaney Swift's On The Square. This is your all-American joint serving shakes, fries, and classic burgers. It's a very popular spot, though, so it might be idea to get a wait time estimate online before you actually go. Those willing to travel for that perfect bite need to visit Loveless Cafe, too. This Tennessee hole-in-the-wall restaurant is a roadside gem with legendary chicken, biscuits, and charm. And though it's a good 50-minute drive away from Gallatin, the restaurant is pretty close to Nashville, so you can make a day trip out of it.

What really sets Gallatin apart from other charming towns of its kind is its unrestricted access to nature. For starters, the city sits right alongside Old Hickory Lake, a massive reservoir with over 440 miles of shoreline. This is a water lover's playground, offering everything from fishing and boating to kayaking and canoeing, while those looking for a more laid-back experience can always enjoy a dreamy lakeside picnic. One of the best places to do just that is Bledsoe Creek State Park. Only 10 minutes from the city center, this local treasure spans 169 acres on the lake's shoreline and features some gorgeous trails and campsites. It's open daily from 7 or 8 a.m. (depending on the season) until sunset, and you can even attend some ranger-led programs.

If you're craving an actual beach, we've got good news for you. The Anderson Road Recreation Area, a golden sand beach park with pristine water and tranquil camping, is just 35 miles away. Not only is this a fantastic place for hiking and exercising, but the waters are swimmable, too! If, instead, you've loved Gallatin's lakeside allure and want to experience it in a different setting, you might want to make the 20-minute drive to Hendersonville, a bustling Nashville suburb with eclectic shops and great fishing, otherwise known as the "city by the lake."

But the best way to enjoy Gallatin's charming city scene-beautiful outdoors combo is to attend one of the many seasonal events, and the Gallatin Main Street Festival might just be the liveliest one of all. Held every year in October, this is a fall staple for locals, drawing in more than 30,000 visitors with its hundreds of unique vendors, local food trucks, and live music.