Cedar glades and barrens shape a distinctive natural area in Wilson County. The Cedars of Lebanon Natural Area covers 2,690 acres and is part of the largest contiguous publicly managed complex of these landscape types. In 1979, the National Park Service recognized the area as one of Tennessee’s 13 National Natural Landmarks. Its size, landscape, and designation together set the scene for exploring nature in Wilson.
Cedar Landscapes and Special Plants
Couchville Cedar Glade offers another distinctive setting: this 140-acre natural area lies in Davidson and Wilson Counties. It is home to one of the largest known and highest-quality populations of the Tennessee coneflower (Echinacea tennesseensis). Public access is available from 7:00 a.m. until sunset; parking and hiking trails are provided. Since access hours and conditions can change, it’s a good idea to check the latest information before visiting.
Archaeological and Built History
At Sellars Farm, a fortified center from the Mississippian period takes center stage. The mound is part of an archaeological center dating from AD 1000 to 1450, located three miles southeast of Lebanon in Wilson County. Sellars Farm is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The site thus connects a clearly defined time period with lasting historic recognition.
Fiddlers Grove in Lebanon presents history as a reconstructed historic village. Its more than 60 historic buildings and museums include original and replica structures; some use original materials from buildings in small rural communities in Wilson County. This mix sets the village apart from a single historic building: different structures and their materials stand side by side, pointing to the communities they came from.
The Lebanon History Museum is housed in the former Castle Heights Military Academy building in Lebanon. In Watertown, the Square is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The archives at the Welcome Center offer insights into the city’s military, economic, and educational history. These places offer different points of focus: a former academy building, a historic square, and insights into a community’s development.
Events and Outings
The Capitol Theatre, a multipurpose venue, is located on Lebanon’s historic downtown square. Events include concerts, movies, and musicals; individual listings may change. If a particular event fits your trip, check the dates in advance.
The Stardust Drive-In Theatre offers a different movie experience: films screen under the night sky, and the drive-in experience has been offered there since 2003. The address is 310 Purple Tiger Drive, Watertown, Tennessee 37184. Check the address before setting out. For a seasonal outing, Breeden’s Orchard offers peach picking; ask about dates and reservations in advance.
Charlie Daniels Park combines several recreational options: Planet Playground is a fenced-in, 9,000-square-foot playground, and there is also a one-mile walking path. Musical events take place in the amphitheater. Since park facilities and programming may change, it’s a good idea to check the latest information before visiting. This makes it easy to distinguish the park from an evening at the drive-in or a seasonal visit to the orchard.
Travel Planning Tips
For trips toward Nashville, the Music City Star commuter rail may also be an option: it serves six stops and terminates at Riverfront Park in downtown Nashville. No schedules are provided here; check the service for your chosen travel date. Wilson offers a range of ways to explore, from natural areas and archaeological sites to events and seasonal activities. Choose what suits your interests, and plan around dates and current visiting conditions.
Explore more destinations: Mt Juliet, Lebanon, Giles County, Lauderdale County, Obion County, Unicoi County, Knox and Gibson.
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