Author: Brittany Hoffmann

Fun In The Sun – Get Outside in WilCo This Summer!

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on June 9, 2018. Posted in Wilson County CVB.

Now that winter is behind us, it’s time to get outside and discover everything that WilCo has to offer for those seeking outdoor fun and adventure! Here are some of our favorite ways to explore the WilCo wilderness and have fun with your friends and family outside this summer.

Pine Creek Golf Course

Located in Mt. Juliet, TN, Pine Creek Golf Course offers a quiet, picturesque escape to hit some drives and grab some libations with your fellow golfers. The log cabin clubhouse welcomes you as you shop their fully stocked pro shop, eat at their bar & grill, and enjoy the views on the outdoor deck area before you hit the course! Pine Creek boasts an 18-hole course with pristine fairways, smooth greens and weekly entertainment sure to keep your summers fun and your golf swing straight!

Horseback Riding

There’s no better way to take in the WilCo wilderness than by horseback! The Cedars of Lebanon Riding Stables located inside Cedars of Lebanon State Park is a fun way to enjoy the local flora and fauna on your guided trail or gather your friends and head to Juro Riding Stables in Mt. Juliet for a relaxing ride! Horseback riding is a MUST this summer to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Disc Golf

Cedars of Lebanon offers a disc golf course that was one of the first in the state! This 18 hole course winds through the cedar forest and is an absolutely gorgeous way to spend time outdoors with your friends and family this summer! The course was designed by Ed Headrick (known as the father of disc golf!) in 1977. The best part? It’s FREE!

Cedar Creek Sports Center

Located in Mt. Juliet, Cedar Creek Sports Center has everything you need for fun with the whole family this summer! Go karts, putt-putt, driving range, arcade, batting cages, even bumper boats – Cedar Creek Sports Center has it ALL! We know its hard to keep the kids entertained when they are out for the summer, so head to Cedar Creek Sports Center for a fun filled day with the kiddos!

Star Dust Drive-In

What is more nostalgic than an evening at the drive-in on a cool summer evening? Head to Watertown’s Star Dust Drive-In for a unique date night idea this summer! With double features and two different screens each night, the Star Dust Drive-In offers entertainment all summer long, seven days a week! Admission is $8.50 per person (ages 12 and over) or $6.50 for kids (ages 6 – 11.) Not only does Star Dust Drive-In offer an array of food and beverage options, they even allow patrons to bring in outside food and beverage for a small fee! So load up the car and head to Watertown for this unique WilCo offering!

Batch & Bushell Farmer’s Market

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on June 8, 2018. Posted in Wilson County CVB.

It just isn’t summer without all the fresh fruits and veggies that Wilson County has to offer! And where’s the best place to stock up on all the great produce? The Batch & Bushel Farmer’s Market at the Wilson County Expo Center!

This summer, you can purchase homemade products like soaps, salsas and marinades, as well as farm fresh fruits and a variety of vegetables at the Batch & Bushel Farmer’s Market from 4PM – 7PM every Thursday from May 31st thru July 26th. Let someone else do all the planting, while you sit back and enjoy the farm-fresh taste in every bite – and there’s no need to check sell by dates, as every item just arrived from your neighbors’ farm and gardens! The Batch & Bushel Farmer’s Market is a family event, so bring everyone out to enjoy live music, shopping and food trucks!

To experience everything homegrown and homemade, stop by the Batch & Bushel Farmer’s market this week!

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I Scream For #WilCo Ice Cream

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on March 26, 2018. Posted in WilCo.

In anticipation for warmer weather, I decided to make a trip around Wilson County to restaurants that are known for serving sweet treats on warm spring days! Here’s the scoop on some places to go in Wilco if you’re a softie for some soft serve!

Adelita’s Ice Cream Shop Located in Lebanoin TNMy first stop was Adelita’s Ice Cream Shop located in Lebanon. This ice cream shop is unique because of its Hispanic flair and hospitality. First, I walked in and my eyes were drawn to a wall that is popping with color. Greens, pinks, purples you name it; arranged in a way that’s both exciting and inviting. My eyes were peeled away only to find a wall of ice cream and popsicles. At first, it’s a bit overwhelming; There were so many different colors and flavors, but the staff was very charming and happy to help me decide what flavors to get. I was able to narrow it down to two types of ice cream: vanilla with M & M’s and chocolate with Kit-Kats. I sat down to enjoy my frozen treats at their cute tables, perfect for a small group of people. I took a spoonful of both flavors and was blown away. This place puts the cream in ice cream. Seriously y’all, the Kit Kat was delicious and chocolatey, and the vanilla with M & M’s was a pair made in heaven. Adelita’s Ice Cream Shop is a hidden icy gem that is definitely not vanilla.

Snow White Drive-in In Lebanon, TNThe second stop, Snow White Drive-In on West Main Street, was a step back in time. A typical 1950’s diner complete with a jukebox and spunky waiting staff. I decided to keep the sweet theme going by ordering a banana split. This banana split was to die for! Underneath the mountains of whipped cream were walnuts, strawberries and even more ice cream, which was quite the pleasant surprise! Other patrons were also eating a banana split, and they were enjoying it just as much as I was. The sounds of town chatter and laughter filled this homey restaurant, making it the perfect place to take the family, or your lunch break. As I was leaving, one of the waitresses told me they served milkshakes. Worried I’d go into a sugar coma if I had anything else sweet, I told them I’d absolutely be back to try one.

Today was a sugary adventure I plan on attending more often. Adelita’s Ice Cream Shop and Snow White Drive-In are unique places that call Wilson County home. One gives you scoops of yummy Latino culture, while the other is a historical trip for both you and your taste buds. They are the places to go if you’re looking for a tasty and fun time with your friends and family. Only in #WilCo will you find such frozen fun!

The post I Scream For #WilCo Ice Cream appeared first on Whats Up Wilson County? | Tourist Information | Wilson County, Tennessee.

Foodie Friday: #WilCo Donuts

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on March 9, 2018. Posted in WilCo.

Is it just me or are there a LOT of donut shops here in WilCo? I don’t mean Krispy Kreme or Dunkin’ Donuts (not that I don’t also frequent those stops as well). I mean made-from-scratch, mom-and-pop, fresh out of the oven, melt in your mouth donut shops.

Since I’m new to the area, I felt like it was my duty to officially taste test those donut shops – it’s a tough job, but someone has to do it!

Stop #1: Donut Time (Lebanon)

Donut Time In Lebanon, TN Donut Time was my first stop on and did not disappoint! The staff was super friendly, and with a steady stream of customers entering while I was there, I could tell that this was clearly a local favorite. I tried an obscene amount of donuts here (for research purposes of course), but my favorite was the apple fritter! I’m usually not a big apple fritter person when I’m in a donut shop but upon the prompting of fellow customers and staff I tried one – and will definitely be getting them more frequently here at Donut Time!

Stop #2: Donut Palace (Lebanon)

Donut Palace In Lebanon, TNDonut Palace is actually on my way to work every day, and what’s even MORE convenient, is their DRIVE THRU WINDOW! That’s right, I don’t even have to get out of my car to stock up on these sweet, glazed babies! Although, I decided for my first trip, to go inside and check out all the donuts they had to offer. The selection did not disappoint and I left with my “traditional” favorites: glazed, blueberry and chocolate with sprinkles. Delicious!

Stop #3: J. Clayborn’s (Lebanon)

I’ve been hearing about J. Clayborn’s ever since I moved to #WilCo so I was excited to finally try it out! It definitely won my heart by it’s nostalgic café atmosphere where the smell of fresh brewed coffee and sweet baked goods welcomes you as you enter this tucked away gem. I decided to let the staff at J. Clayborn’s pick out two donuts I should try, which ended up being a pumpkin cake donut with a maple frosting and a classic cake donut with chocolate frosting. J. Clayborn’s isn’t playing around when it comes to their donuts – the frosting was rich and the cake texture was thick but fluffy! This is definitely a place I will continue to visit!

Stop #4: Gourmet Donuts (Mount Juliet)

Gourmet Donuts 3 300×225My last stop on this “Tour de Donuts” was Gourmet Donuts located in Mount Juliet. This time, I had a helper with me (my 18-month daughter Lucy) to help me taste test! The staff was super friendly and the donut selection was substantial. We decided to pick up a dozen (plus a couple…) to take to Lucy’s daycare as a treat! It was so hard to choose which one I was going to try, but at the end of the day, I thought I’d try a traditional glazed (ok, I also had a few donut holes but who’s counting…) Since I live in Mount Juliet, Gourmet Donuts has now become my weekend “go-to” morning treat!

So if you are looking for a sweet start to your day in #WilCo, try one of our amazing donut shops (or all of them – I won’t judge!)

The post Foodie Friday: #WilCo Donuts appeared first on Whats Up Wilson County? | Tourist Information | Wilson County, Tennessee.

Springtime in #WilCo

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on March 2, 2018. Posted in WilCo.

Spring weather is finally here! I know I’m new to the area and you may be saying “Amy, we will still get frosty mornings and cold fronts before we can officially welcome spring.” And to that I say, stop raining on my parade and let me wear my flip flops.

So in honor of this early warm-ish weather, I present to you a SPRING theme for this week’s #WilCo happenings!

STARDUST DRIVE-IN THEATRE

This weekend marks the beginning of the Stardust Drive-In season! I have heard about this place and I have to say I am SO EXCITED to check this spot out! Short of drinking a bottled coca cola while watching a Yankees game and eating a hot dog, there is nothing more “Americana” than a drive-in movie. Also, where else can you see TWO movies for $8.50. You can stop by their concession stand of course, OR, you can bring your own food for a charge of $6.00 – which is a pretty cool concept and totally worth me begging my husband to grab a Pizza on our way to Stardust!

PAWS FOR A CAUSE 5K RUN

Since it’s finally nice outside, we can start being more active outdoors! Head to Charlie Daniels Park in Mount Juliet on Saturday, March 3rd for the “Paws For A Cause” 5K race benefiting the New Leash on Life organization! The race is sponsored by Tito’s Vodka and registration includes all sorts of fun goodies (t-shirt, medal, race photos, and other fun items!) After the 5K, there is a post-race party at the Corner Pub – and get this, the whole event is DOG FRIENDLY! So register HERE and bring your furry friend with you (your dog of course, not your friend who still hasn’t prepared for wearing shorts after the winter months…)

LONG HUNTER STATE PARK SPRING HIKING TOUR

On Sunday, March 4th at 1:00PM, head to Long Hunter State Park for their Spring Hiking Tour. The hiking tour will include a one-mile hike along the inland trail and will be Ranger-led. Leashed pets are permitted, so bring the whole family. You will turn onto the third road (on the right) after turning into the park to meet the Ranger and fellow hikers! For more information and to register, click HERE.

WEED WRANGLE AT CEDARS OF LEBANON STATE PARK

A nation-wide initiative called “Weed Wrangle” is a program where volunteers from the community gather in public parks to help eradicate exotic, invasive plants in preparation for the spring and summer seasons. So come to Cedars of Lebanon State Park on Saturday, March 3rd from 9AM – 1PM to help us wrangle those weeds! This is a great way to give back to the community, and if you have any kiddos, bring them to help too! To register for the event, click HERE.

HORESBACK RIDING AT JURO STABLES

I’m not a “country girl” by any stretch of the imagination, but I LOVE horseback riding! One of my favorite memories from visiting Ireland was riding horseback through Killarney National Park. I believe horseback riding is a MUST when visiting a new area, as it is a fun way to get a sense of the natural beauty of a destination. So definitely check out Juro Stables when you are visiting #WilCo. Juro Stables is located in Mt. Juliet, and they offer group trail rides as well as private rides and lessons. For more information or to reserve your ride, call (615) 773-7433.

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Catch A Show In #WilCo

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on February 24, 2018. Posted in WilCo.

There is nothing better than live entertainment, especially live THEATRICAL entertainment! So check out some upcoming shows here in #WilCo – and don’t just save the drama for your mama, bring the whole family!

StageStruck Productions Presents: “Mayberry, Maybe?”

This weekend, StageStruck’s “Come Laugh With Us” comedy series begins with their production of “Mayberry, Maybe?” Audiences will enjoy this hilarious comedy of Deputy Dooley and the town folks preparing for an armageddon while the Sheriff is out of town. The show will take place at the Westland United Methodist Church located at 110 Dawson Lane, Lebanon, TN 37087. Tickets are $10.00 and can be purchased HERE.

Wilson Central Wildcat Theatre Presents: “Shrek the Musical”

Shrek the Musical – Wilson Central High SchoolWilson Central High School’s Wildcat Productions presents “Shrek the Musical” February 22nd – 25th at the Wilson Central High School Wildcat Theatre. Join fairy tale characters and your favorite grumpy, green ogre, Shrek, as they attempt to rescue Princess Fiona in order to restore order to Shrek’s swamp. Shrek the Musical will delight as it transforms the popular animated film into a high energy musical that is sure to delight audiences of all ages! Tickets can be purchased by clicking HERE.

Audience of One Productions Presents: “Singin’ In The Rain”

Singing In The Rain – Capitol Theatre Lebanon, TNHead to the Capitol Theatre February 28th – March 4th to catch “Singin’ In The Rain!” The story of famous movie stars Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont trying to hold on to their fame as their industry moves from “silent” to “talkies.” Lina, who’s voice is not suited for the task, struggles with the transition until the musically inclined chorus girl Kathy Selden is brought in as her voice double. This is one of my all-time favorite shows, so you can bet I’ll be grabbing my family and heading to the Capitol Theatre to catch this show before it ends! You can purchase your tickets today by clicking HERE.

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#WilCo Happenings This Weekend

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on February 16, 2018. Posted in WilCo.

Sing your heart out!

Head to the Woodfire Grille in Mount Juliet on Saturday, February 17th at 7:00PM for a Karaoke Night with DJ Krazee D! Try some of Woodfire Grille’s famous Nashville-style hot chicken, and then hit the stage with some equally hot tunes!

Have a “far out” time at a 60’s themed event.

The Roast will be having a 60’s night featuring the band “Feelin’ Groovy.” Guests are encouraged to dress in their 1960’s best! The event will take place on Saturday, February 17th at 7:30PM at The Roast in Lebanon, TN.

Grab your partner and do-si-GO to The Mill!

The Mill will be hosting a line dancing event with Instructor Dorothy Bard this Saturday from 2:00PM – 4:00PM. Don’t forget to check out the shops at The Mill with your dance partner after the class is over!

Check out the latest Centerstage production “The Piano Lesson.”

Centerstage Theatre Company proudly presents “The Piano Lesson.” The production tells the story of a brother and sister’s struggle to determine the fate of a piano that has been in their family for generations. The story shines a light on the struggle between keeping your heritage while also focusing on the future. You can catch “The Piano Lesson” this week or next. For more information and to purchase your tickets, click HERE.

The post #WilCo Happenings This Weekend appeared first on Whats Up Wilson County? | Tourist Information | Wilson County, Tennessee.

Valentine’s Day in WilCo!

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on February 12, 2018. Posted in WilCo.

Love is in the air here in #WilCo!

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but no need to panic, we are here to help make your Valentine’s Day easier with our guide to a fabulous WilCo Valentine’s Day!

Treat your Valentine to a spa day!

Body Kneads, Etc. in Lebanon, TN is offering a 5-hour spa package that includes a 60-minute massage (complete with a vanilla spice coffee back scrub), Image O2 Oxygen facial, and a chocolate / peppermint pedicure! The package also includes a toasted marshmallow latte before your treatment and a mid-day lunch! For more details, click HERE. Aqua Bella Day Spa in Mt. Juliet, TN is offering a couple’s massage complete with champagne and chocolates! Why not give your Valentine (and yourself) the gift of pampering? Forget the World Massage Therapy in Mt. Juliet, TN may not be offering a special just for Valentines, but we couldn’t miss the opportunity to point out that they have been voted the “Best Massage” in Mt. Juliet for both 2017 and just recently the 2018 title! You can check out their Facebook page HERE for a list of services and pricing.

Give your Valentine a sweet treat!

Sweet Biscuit Co. in Mt. Juliet, TN is offering a special Valentine’s package where you can mix and match their popular mini dessert biscuits. Choose from strawberry lemonade, cherry cordial and white chocolate raspberry for your sweetie! You can mix and match flavors in packs of 4 ($3) or 9 ($7). You can call 615-288-3649 to place your order. Stop by Short Cakes Cakery in Mt. Juliet, TN to place an order for cake pops or chocolate covered strawberries for your “cupcake” on Valentine’s day! Clayborn’s bakery in Lebanon, TN has special Valentine’s Day heart cookies as well as gorgeous heart-shaped donuts that are sure to make your Valentine’s morning!

Head to a Valentine’s Day event!

The Goat will be hosting an “Anti-Valentine’s Day” event for couples and singles alike for those who don’t get all mushy for the typical Valentine’s Day activities. So if a traditional Valentine’s Day isn’t your style, come to the Goat where they will have games, food, drinks and activities such as exercise Jenga and raffles! This is a free event from 6PM – 9PM on Valentine’s Day, but they do ask that you register in advance by clicking HERE. Take your Valentine to the Heart of Tennessee 3rd Annual Antique Show at the Wilson County Expo Center! The cost is $20, but the ticket will be good for the duration of the show (three days total). Have some wine and some finger foods as you stroll through the show to see and shop the fabulous antiques! Bloom Yoga Studio in Lebanon is offering a special Valentine’s Day couple’s yoga class led by Leighanne Buchanan. The class will cover partner yoga poses as well as Thai yoga massage techniques. The cost is $25 per couple, but the space is very limited – so make your reservation online today by clicking HERE.

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Business Spotlight Saturday: New Leash On Life!

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on February 10, 2018. Posted in WilCo.

There are many reasons to visit Wilson County: the parks, boutique shopping, dining, the local attractions, or for the many historical sites. However, many times we find ourselves in a new town or city not necessarily for leisure purposes, but because a product or service is available there that is difficult (or maybe impossible!) to get elsewhere. The businesses that offer these products and services play an important role to our tourism industry, so we would like to put a spotlight on those businesses in a segment called…

Business Spotlight Saturday!

This week’s spotlight is on the New Leash On Life organization located in Lebanon, TN. New Leash On Life is dedicated to improving the welfare of companion animals in the community through shelter, placement, spay/neuter, and education and awareness opportunities. The organization boasts three main programs: The Adoption Center, The Joy Clinic, and the Paw Pantry.

Buddy the Chihuahua

The Adoption Center is where our tour begins and is the longest-standing operation of the New Leash On Life organization. The Adoption Center provides shelter, food, basic medical care and training to rescued animals. The Adoption Center is a no-kill shelter that last year helped over 550 companion animals.

Monkey the cat who roams the halls during the evenings

The Joy Clinic is the spay and neuter servicing area of the New Leash On Life organization. The Joy Clinic is a proud partner with the National Spay / Neuter Response Team. This means that the Joy Clinic has been trained at the National Training Center of the Humane Alliance (a program of the ASPCA). The quality of care that companion animals receive at the Joy Clinic, coupled with the affordable pricing, is what sets this program apart from any other spay / neuter facility in the area. The surgery price range is between $35 – $75 (WELL below the industry average!).

Smelling all the visitors who pass by!

The Paw Pantry program provides monthly assistance with pet food for Wilson County residents (this may also be available to people in surrounding counties if supplies are available). The first time assistance is needed, they have a “no questions asked” policy. However, beyond the first time use of the program, the Paw Pantry asks that you provide proof of need as well as proof that your companion animal is spayed or neutered. Proof of need can include: unemployment, government assistance, fixed income, veteran services or referral from another nonprofit.

The Joy Clinic’s mascot, Bandit, getting up-close and personal with CVB Director Amy Nichols

Our visit with the New Leash On Life organization was a powerful one – full of people who are passionate about providing quality care and improving the lives of animals in need. The love that is felt for these animals from those who volunteer their time with New Leash On Life is powerful, but love is not the only thing needed to keep these valuable programs running! Visit the New Leash On Life website to see how you can help through donated items, donated time, and monetary donations.

The post Business Spotlight Saturday: New Leash On Life! appeared first on Whats Up Wilson County? | Tourist Information | Wilson County, Tennessee.

Super Bowl Sunday in #WilCo

Written by Brittany Hoffmann on February 2, 2018. Posted in WilCo.

The Titans may not be playing this weekend, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy all of the Super Bowl festivities around town. Check out one of these awesome Super Bowl parties happening right here in #WilCo!

The Rhythm Saloon

The Rhythm Saloon will be hosting a Super Bowl watch party at their location in Mt. Juliet. The party boasts specials on food as well as 11 big screens throughout the venue to watch the big game!

Jug Creek Distillery

Jug Creek Distillery will be hosting their first Super Bowl Party this Sunday. The game will be playing on a projector inside their new weather-proof venue, so all you will need to do is bring a chair to sit back and enjoy the game! Light snacks will be provided, and of course, drinks will be available at the bar! You do not have to be 21 to attend this Super Bowl party, and the best part is, no tickets are needed!

Legends Sports Grill

Head to Legends in Lebanon for a Super Bowl party with themed Patriots and Eagles food and beverage offerings such as Philly steak sandwiches or New England fish & chips! The party starts at noon, so come grab your spot to watch the big game (or if you are like me, the commercials!).

Super Bowl Potluck

The Riverfront Tavern in Mt. Juliet is hosting a Super Bowl potluck from 5PM – Midnight. If you’d like to bring a dish to the potluck – great! If not, bring your team spirit and come ready to cheer on your favorite team!

Pickin’ Party at Nona Lisa’s

Although not technically a Super Bowl party, Nona Lisa’s monthly “Pickin’ Party” will take place this Sunday in Watertown! At the Pickin’ Party, guests are invited to bring their own instruments and join in on the fun. The party starts around 1:30PM and goes until…..well until the musicians call it quits! Here’s where the Super Bowl part comes in – for the football festivities, Nona Lisa’s will be bringing back their 2×2 for $20 deal where you can get two large pizzas with a total of four toppings for $20. So come to Nona Lisa’s for the jam session, and leave with some pizzas as you head home to watch the big game!

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