Downtown Murfreesboro is a vibrant mix of Southern charm, local history, trendy boutiques, and mouthwatering eats—all wrapped into a walkable, welcoming hub. Whether you’re a local looking for a mini staycation or a visitor passing through Middle Tennessee, a day spent downtown offers a perfect blend of culture, food, and fun.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to spend a perfect day in Downtown Murfreesboro—from sunrise coffee to sunset strolls, with stops at some of the city’s best-loved spots along the way.
9:00 AM – Start with a Coffee and Pastry at Just Love Coffee Café
Begin your day at Just Love Coffee Café, a local favorite known for its specialty coffee and playful waffle-based breakfast menu. Located just off the square, it’s a cozy place to settle in with a caramel macchiato or honey lavender latte. Pair your drink with their signature Womelet (a waffle-omelet hybrid) or sweet cinnamon roll waffle for a delicious start.
The best part? The café is filled with quirky decor and a community feel—perfect for a slow, happy morning.
10:00 AM – Explore the Shops Around the Historic Square
After breakfast, head outside and take a stroll around Murfreesboro’s Historic Public Square, the heart of downtown. You’ll find charming local boutiques, art shops, and antiques stores:
- Trendy Pieces: A stylish boutique filled with clothing, accessories, and gifts.
- Bella’s Boutique: Great for accessories, shoes, and unique local finds.
- Sugaree’s: A whimsical stop for boho fashion, funky jewelry, and artisan candles.
Take your time browsing the shelves, chatting with shopkeepers, and soaking in the small-town vibe.
11:30 AM – Visit the Center for the Arts
Step inside the Center for the Arts, located in a historic building just off the square. This nonprofit theater regularly hosts plays, musicals, art shows, and cultural events. Even if there isn’t a performance scheduled during your visit, the architecture and history of the space are worth checking out.
Feeling inspired? Pick up a flyer for upcoming shows—you might want to come back for a night out!
12:30 PM – Lunch at Puckett’s Restaurant
For lunch, head over to Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, a Tennessee staple with deep Southern roots. Their downtown Murfreesboro location offers comfort food at its finest. Try their classic meat-and-three, pulled pork BBQ sandwich, or shrimp and grits. Their sweet tea and skillet cornbread are must-haves, and the rustic setting gives a nod to old-school Southern diners.
Bonus: Puckett’s often hosts live music during lunch or weekend evenings—call ahead to see if you’ll be treated to some local tunes.
2:00 PM – Walk Off Lunch at Cannonsburgh Village
Just a short walk or drive from the square, Cannonsburgh Village is a living history museum that represents life in 19th-century Murfreesboro. Explore historic buildings like a schoolhouse, grist mill, and even a working blacksmith shop. Don’t miss the world’s largest cedar bucket—a fun and quirky photo op.
The village is free to enter and open year-round, making it a great mid-day stop for anyone interested in local history or Southern heritage.
3:30 PM – Sweet Treat at Hattie Jane’s Creamery
Cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop (or two) from Hattie Jane’s Creamery, located right on the square. They offer small-batch, locally inspired flavors like “Bourbon Pecan,” “Cookie Jar Supreme,” and “Peach Buttermilk.” There are also vegan and dairy-free options available.
Grab your cone and find a bench outside to people-watch while you enjoy your treat—it’s a true downtown moment.
4:00 PM – Art & Antiques at Liquid Smoke and Boro Art Crawl Spaces
Spend the next hour exploring some of downtown’s more creative corners:
- Liquid Smoke: While it’s known for its cigars and relaxed lounge, Liquid Smoke also hosts local artwork and live music. It’s a funky, unexpected gem.
- Boro Art Crawl: If your visit lines up with the quarterly Boro Art Crawl, you’re in for a treat—local artists take over storefronts and galleries, with wine tastings and live painting.
Even on non-event days, downtown often has rotating exhibits and sidewalk art that make for great Instagram shots.
5:00 PM – Sunset Walk on the Greenway
End your afternoon with a gentle walk on the Murfreesboro Greenway System, which connects to the downtown area through several trailheads. The Lytle Street Trailhead is nearest to downtown and will take you along the Stones River with views of the trees, bridges, and birds.
As golden hour sets in, it’s a peaceful time to reflect, stretch your legs, and watch the day wind down.
6:30 PM – Dinner at The Alley on Main
Treat yourself to an upscale dinner at The Alley on Main, a favorite spot for locals looking for hearty Italian-American dishes with a Southern twist. Their steak, pasta, and seafood plates are made with love, and the atmosphere is cozy but elegant.
If you’re in the mood for something more casual, consider:
- Marina’s on the Square – family-owned Italian
- Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint – creative burgers and craft beer
- Philly’s Cheesesteaks – laid-back and flavorful
8:00 PM – Evening Entertainment
Your perfect day in downtown Murfreesboro wouldn’t be complete without some nighttime fun. Depending on the day of the week, check out:
- Hop Springs Beer Park (a short drive away): Local brews and outdoor music.
- Wall Street: A popular downtown bar for cocktails and dancing.
- The Center for the Arts: If you grabbed those show tickets earlier, now’s the time to enjoy them!
Final Thoughts
Downtown Murfreesboro is the kind of place where modern creativity meets timeless Southern hospitality. It’s walkable, friendly, and full of delightful surprises. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the square, hunting for vintage treasures, or watching the sunset from the Greenway, it’s easy to fall in love with the Boro—one perfect day at a time.
Want More Murfreesboro Fun?
Explore more guides and local recommendations at BoroLove.com—your go-to source for all things Murfreesboro.