Are you looking for something to do in and around Rugby, TN? From picturesque trails to art galleries and wineries, there is much to explore in the area! Step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and take a moment to experience all these little Tennessee town offers. Take a stroll on the Massengale Homeplace Trail, get lost in the history of the Rugby Commissary & Museum Store, experience the beauty of Meeting of the Waters, explore nature at Newbury House, admire art in the Gallery at Rugby, take a hike on one of Laurel Dale Cemetery’s Trails, cool off at Gentlemen’s Swimming Hole, or sip some wine at Highland Manor Winery. Whether visiting for a day or staying longer, there are plenty of things to do in and around Rugby!
Massengale Homeplace Trail
The Massengale Homeplace Trail is a great way to explore the history of Rugby, Tennessee. Located in the heart of Rugby, this trail winds through the original homestead of the Massengale family. The trail takes visitors through lush forests and fields, over small bridges and creeks, and past historic buildings that Massengales built.
Visitors can enjoy various activities along the trail, including bird watching, hiking, picnicking, photography, and identifying wildflowers. For those interested in learning more about local history, interpretive signs throughout the area explain each site’s significance. Visitors can also explore the many historical sites along the trail, including an old mill and several old homesites.
The Massengale Homeplace Trail allows one to learn more about Rugby’s past while enjoying some of its most scenic views. Whether you hike or bike this trail or explore it on foot, you are sure to experience something special as you travel back in time and discover one of Tennessee’s hidden gems!
Rugby Commissary & Museum Store
The Rugby Commissary & Museum Store is a must-see destination for history buffs looking to explore the area. Located in the historic town of Rugby, Tennessee, the Commissary & Museum Store offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the area’s rich heritage. From Civil War relics to historical documents, there’s something for everyone.
The Commissary & Museum Store features various exhibits that tell this small community’s story. One popular exhibit is an extensive collection of artifacts from several local businesses, including photographs, newspaper clippings, maps and more. Visitors can also explore the store’s displays of vintage clothing and other items from past eras.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Commissary & Museum Store hosts various special events throughout the year, including lectures on local history and guided tours of Rugby’s historic sites. The store also offers educational programs for children and adults that focus on folk art and agriculture in early Tennessee.
For those interested in shopping for souvenirs or gifts, the Commissary & Museum Store has a wide selection of books, postcards, coins and other items perfect for collecting or gifting. The shop also stocks several products made by local artisans, such as pottery and handcrafted jewelry inspired by Rugby’s unique culture. So whether you’re looking to learn about Rugby’s past or find a special souvenir to take home, stop by the Commissary & Museum Store while visiting!
Meeting of the Waters
The Meeting of the Waters, located in Rugby, Tennessee, is a beautiful spot to take in the area’s natural beauty. This scenic overlook provides amazing views of the confluence of the Obed River and The Clear Fork River. You can often see wildlife, including birds like osprey and eagles, beavers, and other animals.
The Meeting of the Waters was named for its unique geology: the Clear Fork runs hot while the Obed is cold. As they meet, their waters mix yet remain distinct. It’s an amazing sight to behold!
The best time to visit this special place is during the early morning or late afternoon when you can fully appreciate the spectacular colors of both rivers reflecting off each other in the sun’s rays. You can stroll along a footpath that winds through a serene wooded area near the overlook. To get up close and personal with nature, you can also explore several trails that lead off from this point for further exploration into more remote parts of Tennessee’s wilderness.
Whether seeking a peaceful escape from city life or some quality time outdoors with your family, The Meeting of the Waters won’t disappoint. So come and experience this beautiful landscape for yourself!
Newbury House
If you’re looking for a historical and educational experience in Rugby, TN, visiting the Newbury House is a must. Built-in 1895 by Thomas Hughes, author of Tom Brown’s School Days and founder of Rugby, this stunning home has been beautifully preserved. It offers visitors an opportunity to explore the heart of Rugby’s history.
The house is open to the public on Saturdays from April through October and features many artifacts from its original construction. Inside, you will find original furniture, carpets, wallpaper, photographs, books and other items that help tell the story of life in 19th-century England. There are also occasional guided tours that will provide more information about the architecture, furnishings and life in the Victorian era.
Outside you can stroll through the gardens or around the grounds, where there are plenty of spots to sit down and take in some stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The grounds also feature a variety of plants that have been carefully cultivated over time, including heathers and hollyhocks.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about Victorian life or want to take in some picturesque scenery, visiting Newbury House should be at the top of your list when visiting Rugby!
Admire Art in the Gallery at Rugby
The Gallery at Rugby is one of the most popular attractions in town, and it’s easy to see why. Located just off Main Street in the heart of downtown, the Gallery showcases works from local and international artists. There’s something for everyone here, from sculptures to paintings, photography to textiles.
If you’re a fan of modern art, you’ll be sure to find something that catches your eye at the Gallery. With an impressive selection of abstract pieces and more traditional artwork featuring landscapes and figures, there’s no shortage of inspiration here. You can also explore unique 3D installations made out of metal or ceramic.
The Gallery also hosts special events throughout the year, such as artist talks and workshops where visitors can learn about different techniques featured artists use. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or simply seeking creative inspiration, the Gallery at Rugby will surely provide that and more!
Laurel Dale Cemetery Trails
The Laurel Dale Cemetery Trails, located in Rugby, TN, offer a unique chance to explore the history of the town and its surrounding area. The trails are divided into two sections, one in the original cemetery and another that follows along a ridgeline overlooking Rugby.
The original cemetery was established in 1884 and contained several gravesites that date back to the mid-1800s. It is also home to some of the most well-known figures from Rugby’s history, including Thomas Hughes and his wife Sarah, who founded the town. The trail through this section offers a peaceful stroll among some of the oldest headstones in town.
The ridge trail provides an amazing view of Kingston Valley and continues up to its highest point, which is known as Chota Vista. Along the way, hikers will find some interesting rock formations and many wildflowers, including Black-Eyed Susans, Trilliums, Jack-in-the-Pulpits and Fire Pink. About halfway up, visitors can take a break at an old cedar log cabin built in 1940 by local farmers. The ridge trail eventually ends at Gravely Hill where hikers can get a glimpse of what life was like during Victorian times with its 19th-century tombstones and mausoleums.
The Laurel Dale Cemetery Trails allow one to experience nature and history in one exciting adventure!
Gentleman’s Swimming Hole
The Gentleman’s Swimming Hole is a local spot in Rugby, TN. This secluded spot is located off a small road surrounded by lush vegetation and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the clear waters here and take in the serenity of nature as they refresh themselves with a swim. This area offers many great opportunities for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to take a dip or relax on the banks of the river, this area has something for everyone. The best part about this spot is that it’s right in the heart of town – so you don’t have to go far to enjoy its beauty!
Highland Manor Winery
Highland Manor Winery offers a unique way to experience Rugby, TN. Located in a historic Victorian-style mansion, the Lillard family owns and operates the winery. They produce several varieties of wine from their vineyards, including syrah and many more.
At the winery, guests can take tours of the grounds and learn about the history of Tennessee viticulture. During the tour, visitors will get to sample some of the wines that are produced onsite. The knowledgeable guides will also explain how different factors, such as climate and soil, can affect wine production.
The Highland Manor Winery also hosts events throughout the year, such as tastings, music concerts, and food pairings. Guests can also purchase bottles of wine directly from the winery store or online at their website. Explore this beautiful Rugby destination that honors Tennessee’s wine-making history and modern culture!
Rugby, TN, offers many activities to suit everyone’s interests. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll through nature along the Massengale Homeplace Trail, learning about the city’s history at the Rugby Commissary & Museum Store and Meeting of the Waters, admiring art in the Gallery at Rugby, or taking part in outdoor activities such as Laurel Dale Cemetery Trails or Gentleman’s Swimming Hole, there is something for everyone. And for those who prefer to sample some local wines, Highland Manor Winery will surely be an experience that won’t soon be forgotten. With all these activities available to explore in Rugby, it’s no wonder it is one of Tennessee’s most exciting travel destinations.
