Things to Do in Crossville, TN: Our 3-Day Family Adventure with Animals, Waterfalls, Parks & Local Shops
Crossville, Tennessee, is a great place for anyone seeking all types of fun. Sitting atop the Cumberland Plateau, it’s surrounded by lakes, waterfalls, streams, and mountains, and is incredibly rich in history. It’s the perfect mix of free attractions, great food, nature, animals, and small-town charm and making it one of the most underrated family destinations. For more information on local events, attractions, and seasonal happenings, the Crossville Tourism Board is a great resource to help plan your visit.
In this guide, I share all the things worth doing in Crossville, TN!
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Where We Stayed
📍 100 Stonehenge Dr, Crossville, TN 38558
We stayed at the Club Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Glade in Crossville, TN, which is located on 12,700 acres of land. I have to say I am so impressed by the amenities. There was so much to do, we didn’t need to leave the area for fun (even though we did anyway)! Below, I have listed the amenities that made us fall in love, all of which are included in the stay and are family-friendly. Dec 2025 Update: Club Wynham at Fairfield Glen is going to be shutting down this location end of December 2025.
- Indoor pool and jacuzzi, pickleball and racquetball court, gym, nine trails, miniature golf, beaches, boat rentals, golf course, tennis court, lake, and much more!
📍 560 Peavine Rd, Crossville, TN, 38571
Another great and affordable option in Crossville, TN is the Holiday Inn Express and Suites by IHG, with some wonderful amenities including an indoor pool, breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a Gym.
Things To Do in Crossville, TN
1. Stonehaus Winery
📍 2444 Genesis Rd #103, Crossville, TN 38571
We visited Stonehaus Winery and were shocked by how many wine selections they offered — all paired with cheese and crackers (which the kids happily ate for us!). The staff was incredibly informative, the atmosphere was kid-friendly, there was free coffee, five free wine samples, and a military discount since the winery is Air Force retiree–owned.
2. Copper Chick G.O.A.T Café
📍 3825 Peavine Rd, Crossville, TN 38571
We grabbed delicious coffee ( I recommend a hot caramel macchiato), shopped in their gift store, visited with goats and other animals, and even had a surprise visit with the Grinch. A cute, cozy, family-friendly spot with great photo ops.
3. Dirty Girls Nursery
📍 697 Dunbar Rd, Crossville, TN 38572
Dirty Girls Nursery was a highlight; we met Mrs. Claus, browsed the local artist market, drank hot cocoa, listened to live music, walked the gardens, and spent time with animals, including a turkey, bunny, and chickens. A wholesome, festive stop.
4. Cumberland Mountain State Park
📍 24 Office Dr, Crossville, TN 38555
We explored the park’s trails, enjoyed the playground, and walked over to the historic mill house and waterfall by the bridge. It’s free to enter and perfect for families with kids of all ages.
5. Muddy Pond Mennonite Community (General Store + Leather Goods)
📍 3608 Muddy Pond Rd, Monterey, TN 38574
We visited the general store, the leather shop, saw farmhouse scenery, and spotted large horses (possibly Clydesdales). While many people call this area “Amish,” Muddy Pond is technically a Mennonite / Plain community — offering bulk goods, handmade items, sorghum, leatherwork, and simple country living. An absolute must? Ordering salami from the deli counter and garlic cheese curds, you won’t regret it! Need shopping ideas? I always get “Grandma’s” Lye soap, sourdough bread mix, local honey, headache stick, and chocolate candy for the kiddos.
6. Bramble Berry Cafe and Bakery
📍 2446 Genesis Rd Ste 101, Crossville, TN 38571
We browsed antiques, home goods, and unique finds — a great place to slow down and wander. Although there are tons of glass items and don’t recommend if you have energetic kids. My one-year-old happily ran around in the yard with her grandpa while I looked at tea sets.
7. El Parian Mexican Restaurant (Family Dinner Stop)
📍 2565 Genesis Rd, Crossville, TN 38571
Conveniently located by the Stonehaus Winery & Bramble Berry Cafe and Bakery. Great family-friendly dinner spot with fast service and good portions — I love the tacos!!!
8. Buc-ee’s
📍 2045 Genesis Rd, Crossville, TN 38555
A chaotic, fun, delicious dinner stop. Plenty of kid-friendly options and always an experience. My eldest loves the pulled pork sandwiches, and they are always a hit.
9. Downtown Crossville
Whether you’re looking for gifts, clothing, coffee, or small-town charm, downtown Crossville is a great spot to explore.
10. The Custard Cabin
📍 5751 Peavine Rd, Crossville, TN 38571
Custard, ice cream, treats — a family favorite dessert stop.
11. The Playhouse
📍 221 Tennessee Ave, Crossville, TN 38555
Great for visitors wanting an indoor activity or local entertainment, it’s extremely popular during the holidays, so make sure you book your tickets ahead of time. Check out the calendar here!
12. Ozone Falls
📍 14563 TN-1, Ozone, TN 37854
This is the perfect place for a quick stop. Even better, Ozone Falls is free, gorgeous, and easily accessible right off the road. Check out this website for directions on how to get to Ozone Falls.
13. Black Mountain Overlook
📍 2000-3398 Black Mountain Rd, Crossville, TN 38555
Black Mountain Overlook is a 6.4-mile in-and-out trail with a 1,300 elevation gain. A rewarding overlook perfect for sunsets and family-friendly, with the appropriate preparation and gear.
14. The Overlook & Cascade Trails
📍 35°58’05.1″N 84°51′.”W, 0
A pet-friendly, easy 2-mile loop hike with panoramic views that is described as great for hikers and nature-loving families .
15. Plateau Discovery Gardens
📍 320 Experiment Station Rd, Crossville, TN 38571
A Grandma Meme favorite, Plateau Discovery Gardens, is on the University of Tennessee campus. It’s free entry, open during daylight hours, and 365 days of the year. You can expect to see pollinators, annuals, perennials, shrubs, and even vegetables. Plateau Discovery Gardens is family-friendly with a kids garden section, educational for all ages, pretty, and peaceful — a great add-on.
16. Shirley’s Cupcakes
📍 112 Genesis Rd, Crossville, TN 38555
A super cute and quaint cupcake boutique, Shirley’s Cupcakes is a Crossville favorite for baked goods and cupcakes.
17. Fly Fishing Charters & Outdoor Adventures
Okay, I had to add this in because Isaak loves to fish, and the fishing in the Crossville area is unique are worth checking out. Isaak was able to fly fish and land some cute trout. There are many local guides who offer fishing, paddling, and nature tours for visitors wanting something unique.
18. Cumberland Homesteads Tower Association
📍 3835 Hwy 127 S, Crossville, TN 38555TN 38555
Are you into local history? Then make sure to stop by the Cumberland Homesteads Tower Association. A 1983 uniquely shaped stone tower that serves as an exhibit into the 1930s history of homestead life in Crossville, TN.
Crossville, TN Fall Things To Do
19. Fall Creek Falls State Park
📍 2009 Village Camp Rd, Spencer, TN 38585
One of Tennessee’s crown jewels — spectacular waterfalls, overlooks, and kid-friendly trails. Great for fall colors.
20. Kimbro Farms
📍 1096 Baier Rd, Crossville, TN 38571
A perfect family autumn outing with activities for all ages. Corn mazes, pumpkin patch, giant bouncy mat, fun truck rides, and great food! We highly suggest visiting in the fall.
Free & Low-Cost Activities in Crossville
Many of these spots, including Plateau Discovery Gardens, Cumberland Mountain State Park, and Ozone Falls, are highlighted on the Crossville Tourism Board website, which is a helpful guide for families planning an affordable trip.
- Cumberland Mountain State Park (FREE)
- Plateau Discovery Gardens (FREE)
- Farm animal visits (Goat Café, Dirty Girls Nursery)
- Waterfalls + overlooks (FREE)
- Downtown browsing (FREE)
- Stonehaus Winery wine tasting (FREE — 5 samples)
- Muddy Pond scenic drive (FREE)
- Playgrounds (FREE)
3 Day Crossville, TN Weekend Itinerary
Vamonos Together!
Crossville truly surprised us with how much there is to do for families. From waterfalls and wildlife encounters to cozy cafés, Mennonite markets, and free outdoor adventures, it’s the kind of destination that feels peaceful yet full of life. Whether you visit for a weekend or stretch your stay longer, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly, kid-friendly, memory-making experiences here.
If you’re planning your own family getaway to Crossville, you may also enjoy my Ultimate Packing List for Traveling With a Baby and Toddler (PDF Included!) — it’s perfect for stress-free, organized travel.