Ideas for Fall Activities in Nashville

Middle Tennessee has some of the most beautiful fall seasons I have ever experienced in my life. With fall comes a ton of great outdoor activities to soak in the gorgeous surroundings.  Here are some of the places I've visited in the past during the fall that you should check out this year:

Gentry Farms.  Everyone loves a good pumpkin patch and Gentry Farm offers that and more.  A corn maze, nature trail, and tons of activities for the kids sum up why it is totally worth the $5 admission (and btw. last time I was out at Gentry, I saw Keith, Nicole, and Dierks. You never know who you might run into. Swoon).

While you're out at Gentry, drive a little further down Old 96 to the Natchez Trace Bridge (pictured above), one of my favorite architectural designs in Nashville, is especially stunning at this time of the year. Just down the street on Old 96, take a drive through the beautiful Westhaven neighborhood. The attention to detail in this community is simply stunning, and an absolute must-see.

While you're out that direction, don't forget about the Liepers Fork community. It always amazes me that the country is so close to the city here in Nashville. The original Puckett's is a must-see (stop in for some homemade cobbler... delish.), and there are some fabulous antique and art shops to check out as well.

A few other ideas:

• Radnor Lake. A fairly hidden park in Nashville, one that must be seen in the fall. Absolutely beautiful trails, trees, and of course, the lake itself. It's a wonderful to have such a serene place so accessible from the hustle and bustle of town.

• Check out a Haunted house. Check out my behind the scenes chat with my favorite haunted attraction in town, Nashville Nightmare. If you're looking at staying closer to town, Devils Dungeon in East Nashville is also terrifying.

• Burgess Falls. Head east to this absolutely stunning state park with a 1.5 mile round-trip hike which takes you past four waterfalls. Perhaps my favorite park and completely worth the trek.

• Fall Creek Falls. Another gorgeous park featuring miles of trails and an epic waterfall. An easy day trip from Nashville.

Finally, of course fall wouldn't be complete without a trip out East to the Smokies and Gatlinburg. About a three hour drive east of Nashville - simply rent a cabin and enjoy the views for one of the best and easiest weekend getaways. If you're up for a bit of adventure whilst out that direction, be sure to check out Dollywood, one of my favorite theme parks in the country (because seriously, who doesn't love some Dolly Parton.)

What are some of your favorite can't miss fall activities?