Smyrna, Tennessee Travel Guide

Experience the warmth of Southern hospitality, rich history, and scenic beauty in Smyrna, Tennessee—a charming town with something for everyone.

Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Smyrna offers a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and contemporary living. This charming town boasts a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, with landmarks and museums that tell the story of its past. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, where you will find quaint shops, local eateries, and friendly faces. Nature lovers will appreciate Smyrna's lush parks and beautiful green spaces. Percy Priest Lake and its surrounding areas provide ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. For a more relaxed day, visit one of the town's scenic parks such as Sharp Springs Park, where you can picnic, walk trails, and enjoy the serene environment. Smyrna is also home to a variety of cultural and community events throughout the year. From local festivals to farmers markets, there is always something happening to bring the community together. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking to experience the charm of small-town America, Smyrna, Tennessee, is a destination worth exploring.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Smyrna.

Visit the Smyrna Depot Farmers Market on Saturdays for fresh local produce and unique crafts.
Take a guided tour at the Sam Davis Home and Museum to learn about local Civil War history.
Bring your fishing gear to Percy Priest Lake for a relaxing day by the water.
Check the local events calendar before your trip to catch a festival or community event.
Explore the Historic Downtown Smyrna for unique shops and local dining experiences.

Explore Smyrna: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Smyrna

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Grand Ole Opry

Discover the iconic Grand Ole Opry, Nashville's historic live music venue, where country music history comes alive through unforgettable performances.

4.8

Ryman Auditorium

Discover the Ryman Auditorium, Nashville's historic live music venue, where legends have performed and memories are made.

4.8

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Explore the rich history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, a must-see for music lovers and tourists alike.

4.6

Bridgestone Arena

Discover the excitement of Bridgestone Arena, Nashville's premier venue for sports and entertainment, and make unforgettable memories in Music City.

4.7

Best landmarks in Smyrna

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Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center

Discover the ultimate family fun at Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center, featuring bowling, laser tag, an arcade, and delicious dining in Smyrna, TN.

4.4

Karin's Kustard & Hamburgers

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Karin's Kustard & Hamburgers in Smyrna, TN, where delicious burgers and creamy custard create an unforgettable dining experience.

4.7

Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que

Explore the rich flavors of the South at Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que—where tender meats and homemade sides create an unforgettable dining experience.

4.2

Margarita House Smyrna

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Margarita House in Smyrna, Tennessee for a memorable dining adventure.

4.4

Best restaurants in Smyrna

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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Discover delicious Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store - A family-friendly dining experience with unique shopping.

4.3

Hickory Falls Restaurant

Experience the best of American cuisine at Hickory Falls Restaurant in Smyrna—where great food meets inviting ambiance.

4.5

Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen

Discover hearty American comfort food at Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen in Smyrna, TN - where every meal feels like home.

4.2

Tokyo Japanese Steak House

Indulge in authentic Japanese flavors at Tokyo Japanese Steak House, where sizzling steaks meet exquisite sushi in Smyrna's vibrant dining scene.

4.6

Best bars in Smyrna

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Hickory Falls Restaurant

Discover the essence of American dining at Hickory Falls Restaurant in Smyrna, TN - where comfort food meets a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

LongHorn Steakhouse

Experience the best of American cuisine at LongHorn Steakhouse in Smyrna, TN - where delicious steaks and a friendly atmosphere await.

4.4

Legends Steakhouse

Experience the best of steak dining at Legends Steakhouse in Smyrna, TN, where flavor meets a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable meal.

4.1

Chili's Grill & Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of American and Tex-Mex cuisine at Chili's Grill & Bar, a perfect spot for families and friends in Smyrna, Tennessee.

3.9

Best nightclubs in Smyrna

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Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center

Discover endless fun for the whole family at Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center, featuring bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and delicious dining in Smyrna, TN.

4.4

Sullivan's Sports Bar

Discover Sullivan's Sports Bar in Smyrna, TN, where great food, sports, and entertainment meet for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Chappy's Bar & Grill

Experience the best of American grill cuisine at Chappy's Bar & Grill in Smyrna, Tennessee, where great food meets a warm, friendly atmosphere.

4.5

Hotshotz Bar & Grill

Discover the flavors and sounds of Smyrna at Hotshotz Bar & Grill, where delicious grilled dishes meet live music in a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Best shops in Smyrna

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Antique Archaeology Nashville

Explore a treasure trove of antiques and unique souvenirs at Antique Archaeology Nashville, a must-visit for vintage enthusiasts.

4.1

The Crossings Of Spring Hill

Explore The Crossings of Spring Hill for a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in Tennessee's vibrant retail scene.

4.4

The Factory at Franklin

Explore the rich history and vibrant culture at The Factory at Franklin, a unique shopping and cultural destination in Tennessee.

4.5

Ross Dress for Less

Discover unbeatable fashion deals at Ross Dress for Less in Smyrna, TN—your go-to destination for stylish clothing and accessories on a budget.

4.0

Explore Smyrna on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Smyrna, mapped for you.

Smyrna Essentials

Smyrna, Tennessee is conveniently located near Nashville, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Nashville International Airport (BNA), approximately 20 miles north of Smyrna. From the airport, you can rent a car, book a ride-sharing service, or take a taxi to reach the town. If you prefer driving, Smyrna is accessible via Interstate 24. Greyhound and Megabus also offer bus services to Nashville, from where you can take local transportation to Smyrna.
Smyrna offers several transportation options for getting around the town. Car rentals are widely available and are the most convenient option for exploring the area. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Smyrna, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. Public transportation is limited, but the Rover bus service connects Smyrna with nearby Murfreesboro. Biking is another viable option, thanks to the town's bike-friendly infrastructure.
The official currency in Smyrna is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially around shopping centers and major attractions. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also increasingly accepted.
Smyrna is generally considered a safe town for tourists. However, it’s wise to exercise standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. While Smyrna does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, always be vigilant about your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Smyrna has a well-equipped police department and medical facilities, including the TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, several pharmacies are available throughout the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to elderly passengers if using public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain friendly eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southern cuisine and be gracious when offered food or drink. Don't forget to tip service staff, as gratuity is customary.
To experience Smyrna like a local, visit the local farmers' market held on weekends for fresh produce and handcrafted goods. Engage with locals who are generally friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Sam Davis Home and Museum for a glimpse into Civil War history. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Smyrna Greenway System offers excellent trails for walking, jogging, and biking.

When is the best time to visit Smyrna?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Smyrna

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Smyrna. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haʊdi]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [siː jə ˈleɪtər]
- YesYep
  [jɛp]
- NoNah
  [nɑː]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pliːz/nəʊ ˈprɒbləm]
- Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [ˈpɑːrdn miː/maɪ bæd]
- How are you?Howdy
  [haʊdi]
- Fine. And you?I'm good. How 'bout you?
  [aɪm ɡʊd. haʊ baʊt jʊ]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [aɪ eɪnt ˈkætʃɪn ɒn]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kæn aɪ tʃɛk aʊt ðə ˈmɛnjuː]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [aɪ doʊnt duː mit]
- Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [ˈbɒtəmz ʌp]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'm fixin' to settle up
  [aɪm ˈfɪksɪn tʊ ˈsɛtəl ʌp]
- Help!I need a hand!
  [aɪ niːd ə hænd]
- Go away!Scat!
  [skæt]
- Call the Police!Ring the Cops!
  [rɪŋ ðə kɒps]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc on the line!
  [ɡɛt ə dɒk ɒn ðə laɪn]
- I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [aɪm ɔːl tɜːnd əˈraʊnd]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [aɪm ˈfiːlɪn ˈpʊrli]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [aɪm ˈfɪksɪn tʊ ˈpɜːrtʃəs]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [dʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪn]
- How much is it?How much does it run?
  [haʊ mʌt ˈdʌz ɪt rʌn]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [ðæts ə bɪt stiːp]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya cut the cost?
  [kæn jə kʌt ðə kɒst]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [wɑːts ðə taɪm]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [tɛn ˈθɜːrti]
- MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔːrnɪn]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnuːn]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ˈivnɪn]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstərˌdeɪ]
- TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɒrəʊ]
- 1One
  [wʌn]
- 2Two
  [tuː]
- 3Three
  [θriː]
- 4Four
  [fɔːr]
- 5Five
  [faɪv]
- 6Six
  [sɪks]
- 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
- 8Eight
  [eɪt]
- 9Nine
  [naɪn]
- 10Ten
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wɛəz ðə]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [wɑːts ðə ˈædi]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [kæn jə pɔɪnt ɪt aʊt ɒn ðə mæp]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst (bʌs)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt (tu ....)]

History of Smyrna

Smyrna, Tennessee, was originally inhabited by Native American tribes before European settlers arrived in the 18th century. The area's fertile land and strategic location along the West Fork of the Stones River made it an ideal spot for settlement. Smyrna was officially established in the early 1800s and quickly grew as a small farming community.
During the American Civil War, Smyrna played a significant role due to its proximity to key transportation routes. The town saw several skirmishes and was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces at different times. Notably, the Sam Davis Home, now a historic site, served as a Confederate stronghold. Sam Davis, known as the 'Boy Hero of the Confederacy,' was captured and executed by Union forces, and his story remains an essential part of Smyrna's Civil War history.
After the Civil War, Smyrna evolved from a war-torn region into a thriving agricultural hub. The construction of railroads facilitated the transport of goods, particularly cotton and tobacco, bolstering the local economy. The town began to modernize, with new schools, churches, and businesses establishing Smyrna as a prosperous community.
World War II brought significant changes to Smyrna with the establishment of Sewart Air Force Base in 1941. The base played a critical role in training pilots and aircrew for the war effort. It remained operational until 1971, shaping the town's demographic and economic landscape. The closure of the base led to economic challenges, but the community adapted and repurposed the land for industrial and residential use.
A pivotal moment in Smyrna's modern history was the opening of the Nissan North America manufacturing plant in 1983. This development transformed Smyrna into an industrial powerhouse, providing thousands of jobs and boosting the local economy. The plant remains one of the largest automotive manufacturing facilities in the United States, cementing Smyrna's reputation as a key player in the automotive industry.
Smyrna has seen substantial cultural and recreational growth in recent decades. The town boasts numerous parks, historical sites, and community events that celebrate its rich heritage. Notable sites include the Sam Davis Home, Sharp Springs Park, and the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center. These attractions, along with a vibrant arts and music scene, highlight Smyrna's commitment to preserving its history while fostering a dynamic community spirit.