Day Trips in Middle Tennessee

Living in Tennessee is like a permanent vacation. The picturesque mountains and tumbling streams that cover the state are not just for the high dollar resorts but everywhere. There are several low cost and free retreats that the whole family can enjoy as well. Shopping and dining are a real treat in the state and country music fans converge here for sites like the Grand Old Opry and Nashville's Music Fest. One thing is for sure, whether you have unlimited funds or your budgeted to the penny, there are many day trips to take around the state to fit perfectly in your budget.

The Birdsong Resort and Marina offers something you can't see anywhere else in the country, a freshwater pearl farm. The Birdsong is a resort and marina with 14 cabins and a campground for tents and RV's. They provide guest amenities like a swimming pool and an open pavilion with picnic tables and game courts. There is a museum on site that shows the entire process of farming the freshwater pearls that are so plentiful in the area. It is a new experience that charms even the most seasoned vacationer.

The Birdsong Resort and Marina

255 Marina Road

Camden, TN 38320

731-584-7880

http://www.birdsong.com

Wine has never been as interesting as it is with a trip to Beans Creek Winery in Manchester, Tennessee. Not only does this amazing little winery have a complete tasting for everyone who ventures in but also a tour of the wine cellars and a unique wine related gift shop. The tour consists of the wine cellar and the warehouse where the champagne is made. The sommelier gives each tour which ends with a glass of the most recently finished champagne.

The main entrance of the winery holds the tasting bar. Each guest is presented with a list of the available wines made at the winery and is encouraged to taste each one in search of a favorite for purchase.

Each month from April to October the Beans Creek Winery offers summer music nights with area musician and poets performing while wine enthusiasts enjoy a bottle and the show. Refreshments are offered as well. Beans Creek is one of the many inexpensive day trips in the state.

The Beans Creek Winery

426 Ragsdale Road

Manchester, TN 37355-5894

(931) 723-2294

http:// www.beanscreekwinery.com

The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is an excellent day trip that is easy on the pocketbook.

Mammals, fish, reptiles and birds of every species call the Zoo at Grassmere their home. Frogs, toads, newts, salamanders and many other species of amphibians are all part of the amphibian house exhibit. See the African Clawed Frog and the huge Hellbender Salamander.

There are daily shows of birds, mammals, fish and arthropods throughout the day. Catch a show all about the amazing bird species in the aviary. There are also special events held for the public on occasion. A sleepover in the zoo is held several times a year where zoo patrons can spend the night and enjoy special shows just for them.

There are so many things to see and do at the Zoo at Grassmere it is perfect for a day trip. It certainly keeps you busy and interested all day long.

The Zoo at Grassmere

3777 Nolensville Pike

Nashville, TN 37211-3324

(615) 833-1534

http://www.nashvillezoo.org

Middle Tennessee is full of surprises. It's great for family fun as well a romantic get aways and more mature fun. Spend the day in middle Tennessee. You will be counting the hours until you can return.