Hit the road to secluded spots in Lebanon, Pasquo, and Franklin (left to right). | Photos via Airbnb
Did you know? Nashville is projected to see one of the sharpest increases in out-of-state drivers over Labor Day weekend. Avoid the highway crowds and take a back road to these nearby staycations.
Barn retreat | Lebanon
This farm stay is situated on 18 acres along Barton’s Creek, and guests are welcome to cast a line, take a kayak out, or just soak up the views from the porch swing. After sunset, gather around the fire pit or drive 15 miles southeast to Stardust Drive-In.
Creekside cottage | Pasquo
Unwind on the porch with the sound of the creek below. Inside, you’ll find a queen bed, claw-foot tub, and locally made ceramics that give the space its charm. Loveless Cafe is just a mile away if you want to pick up some biscuits before retreating to the quiet hideout.
Forest cabin | Franklin
Perched on 13 acres at one of the highest points in Franklin, this tiny cabin is surrounded by old-growth oaks and maples. Spend time at the property’s pond or make the short drive to Leiper’s Fork.
If these properties get booked up, explore more nearby escapes at the button below.
Panda Fest makes its Nashville debut the weekend of Oct. 24-26 at Fair Park. The Asian food and culture festival has already drawn crowds in Atlanta, Boston, and Seattle, and now it’s Music City’s turn to host 80+ food vendors, artisan goods, and live performances. Tickets go on sale Thursday, Sept. 4.
Closed
Party Fowl has closed its original location in the Gulch, but the hot chicken chain already has new restaurants lined up. An East Nashville spot is set to open in late September on Woodland Street and another near Vanderbilt is in the works.
Shop
Rejuvenation opened its first Tennessee store at Hill Center Green Hills. The Portland-based brand, part of the Williams-Sonoma family, sells lighting, decor, and customizable home furnishings. A grand opening event is set for Thursday, Sept. 18 with a designer panel and local vendors.
Coming Soon
Hawkers Asian Street Food is bringing its shareable small plates to Franklin’s McEwen Northside in early 2026. The Florida-based chain, which also operates in East Nashville, is known for dishes such as twice-fried wings and five-spice green beans.
Concert
Brandy and Monica added new dates to their “The Boy Is Mine” tour, including a stop at Bridgestone Arena with opener Coco Jones on Friday, Oct. 24. Tickets go on sale Friday, Aug. 29.
Read
Now in Books recently made a guide of what novels to read based on your state. To be read in Tennessee? Ashley Jordan’s “Once Upon a Time in Dollywood,” which follows a playwright recovering from personal heartbreak who retreats to the Tennessee mountains.
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Home
How smart homeowners preserve their property (and their weekends): using Homebuddy for a one-time install of top-rated gutter guards that require zero maintenance. Compare local offers now.*
Tea by Southall returns Saturday, Aug. 30 for its fall season. The garden-inspired tea service features a prix fixe menu of sweet and savory bites made with ingredients harvested from the farm. Seatings run Saturdays and Sundays through January.
The perfect stadium accessory: this clear crossbody bag for all your gameday essentials. We love this option’s adjustable strap, smooth zipper, and chic hardware.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Speaking of getting out of town, I had a great meal recently at Golden Lanzhou Bowls down in Murfreesboro (the hand-pulled noodles were a hit). If you’re in the area, this spot and Cup Pop are great places to stop in for a bite.
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