Category: Wilson County CVB

It’s more than 50 years old and the majority of its most beloved episodes appear on our digital flat screens or mobile devices in black and white, but the classic sitcom  “Andy of Mayberry” still appeals to all age groups – even those hard-to-impress Generation X’ers.  There’s a good reason for this.  It’s uncomplicated. It’s authentic. It’s based on real life without being un-nerving like the so-called reality shows which are a far cry from being real. This simple show appeals to our instincts to get back to basics when we’re surrounded by cacophony.

Watching an episode of this show is a way of stepping back to a simpler time when the biggest problem of the week was whether Thelma Lou would accompany Barney to the church social and stress consisted of having Goober working on the patrol car for the big event. The best part – these characters had it all figured out in less than half an hour.

And then, there’s that sweet town where they all lived. There’s something about that Paramount set that makes us want to visit on our day off. Sitting in the shade in that imaginary place and watching the world go by would be relaxing. Taking in the county fair and sampling Clara Johnson’s prize-winning pickles would be fun on a lazy summer afternoon.  Browsing the shops looking for vintage furniture or luxurious crazy quilts for the farmhouse would be just the thing to get your mind off the boss for a long weekend.  If you’d rather whistle on down to the fishing hole – then, you’ll have to venture into Mt. Pilot for that.  There are lakes and streams just brimming with catfish you’ve heard. Just as you’re ready to bait the hook and throw in the line, the credits roll and your escape from reality is over. Right?

It doesn’t have to be.

I’ll share a little secret:  I know of a place where a relaxing weekend or extended vacation can get you in that same relaxed, uncomplicated, authentic, southern state-of- mind and the best part – you can get a cozy room and stay as long as you like. Wilson County, Tennessee is only a short drive from wherever you live and you won’t have to take off your shoes until you get on the boat dock.

This centrally located destination consists of three great cities with amazing history, beautiful vistas, and southern hospitality. And, we’re next door to Music City, only minutes from the airport.  Before you head to 2^nd Avenue with a guitar and your dreams, stay with us for a spell to perfect your craft. Jam with a talented pro in one of our music and songwriting workshops. Perform your latest collaboration in a quaint café before an adoring crowd.

Want to spend some quality time with the kids?  Be sure to ask the boss for time off in August for what USA Today claims is the best county fair in the nation. (We agree!)  You don’t have to drive all the way to Mt. Pilot for great fishing and boating. The locals go to the place Charlie Daniels calls home – fabulous Mt. Juliet – when they want to enjoy the water.  Then, there are horseback rides at Cedars of Lebanon State Park, balloon rides, food festivals, hiking and biking. All this activity would boggle Aunt Bee’s mind.

Antiquing and shopping for vintage souvenirs of your amazing trip are just a train ride away to Watertown, a location famous in its own right for movies, music videos and getaways for the stars. Did you know that Sir Paul McCartney wrote a song about his famous getaway to Wilson County?  Yep, the man could have gone anywhere in the world and he chose to relax down on Junior’s Farm.

We’re not Mayberry – we’re the best kept vacation secret in the South. We’re for real and we’re ready for you to come and see us.

Get back to basics and make plans for a “Made in Tennessee” getaway to Wilson County.  We promise you’ll go home feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready for your Monday through Friday reality – whatever that might be.