Waverly Travel Guide

Discover the culturally and naturally rich town of Waverly, Tennessee with our ultimate tour guide. From hiking routes to local cuisines, we've got all covered!


Introduction to Waverly

Located in central Tennessee, Waverly is a small town known for its scenic views, outdoor adventures, and historic landmarks. This charming town is perfect for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, Waverly has something to offer.

In this tour guide, we’ll take a look at the top attractions, activities, and places to eat in Waverly, as well as practical information on getting around, safety, and cultural practices.

List of Places to Visit in Waverly

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Humphreys County Museum & Civil War Fort - This museum showcases exhibits on the history and culture of the region, as well as a replica of a Civil War fort.

  • Loretta Lynn’s Ranch - A must-visit for country music fans, this ranch features a museum dedicated to the legendary singer and entertainer.

  • Richland Railroad Museum - This museum is housed in a restored train depot and showcases the history of the railroad in the region.

  • Johnsonville State Historic Park - This park was the site of a Civil War battle and features a museum and historic walking tour.

Natural Attractions of Waverly: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Birdsong Hollow - A beautiful nature reserve that offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Natchez Trace State Park - This park features several hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating opportunities, and campgrounds.

  • Mousetail Landing State Park - Another great option for outdoor enthusiasts, this park features hiking and horseback riding trails, fishing, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Waverly

  • Birdsong Hollow - The Hootin’ Hollow Trail is a popular hiking trail in the reserve, offering impressive views of the valley below.

  • Natchez Trace State Park - The park offers more than 40 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the scenic Cub Lake Trail.

  • Mousetail Landing State Park - The park’s namesake trail is a challenging 8-mile hike, offering stunning views of the Tennessee River.

Best Things to Do in Waverly: Activities and Tours

  • Canoe the Buffalo River - This river offers a peaceful and scenic route for canoeing or kayaking.

  • Horseback Riding at Circle E Guest Ranch - The Circle E Guest Ranch offers horseback riding tours through the beautiful countryside.

  • Golfing at Waverly Country Club - This golf course offers challenging holes and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Waverly

Day Activity
1 Visit Humphreys County Museum & Civil War Fort
2 Hiking at Birdsong Hollow Reserve
3 Canoeing on the Buffalo River
4 Golfing at Waverly Country Club
5 Horseback riding at Circle E Guest Ranch
6 Visit Loretta Lynn’s Ranch
7 Hiking at Natchez Trace State Park

Food and Drink Scene of Waverly

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hot Chicken - A spicy dish consisting of fried chicken and cayenne pepper.

  • Biscuits and Gravy - A Southern breakfast classic, gravy poured over biscuit halves.

  • Fried Catfish - Freshly caught catfish, lightly battered and fried to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Jack Daniel’s Whiskey - This world-famous whiskey is distilled nearby and available for tastings and tours.

  • Tennessee Brewing Company - A local brewery that offers a range of craft beers.

Where to Stay in Waverly: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Natchez Trace RV Campground - This RV campground is located within Natchez Trace State Park and offers campsites with hookups and amenities.

  • Quality Inn - A budget-friendly hotel near the center of town, offering comfortable rooms and a free breakfast.

  • Airbnb - In Waverly, there is a wide range of unique lodgings such as farmhouses that offer a true taste of Southern hospitality.

What to Buy in Waverly: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Jack Daniel’s Whiskey - A bottle for those back home who couldn’t take the tour.

  • Handmade Crafts and Kitchenware - Shopping around for one-of-a-kind souvenirs can be done in places such as the Humphreys County Museum & Civil War Fort as well as local farm stands and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Waverly

Waverly is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors are encouraged to experience the local culture and customs. A popular tradition is the Annual Cornbread Festival, which celebrates the local staple with food, music, and family-friendly activities.

Best Time to Visit Waverly

The best time to visit Waverly is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Waverly

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine - Sample the hot chicken, biscuits and gravy, and fresh catfish from local restaurants.

  • Do respect the local culture - Waverly is a welcoming town, but visitors should be respectful of their customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter - Help keep the beautiful countryside clean by disposing of trash properly.

  • Don’t be rude - Southern hospitality is important in Waverly, so be polite and courteous to locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Waverly

Waverly is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should still exercise common sense and take precautions such as locking their doors and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Waverly

Medical facilities and hospitals are available in nearby towns. Visitors should bring any necessary medication and consult a doctor before traveling.

Getting to Waverly: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Waverly

The closest airport to Waverly is Nashville International Airport, which is about 80 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Waverly

Greyhound buses stop in nearby towns such as Dickson and New Johnsonville, both within a 30-minute drive.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services to reach Waverly.

How to Get Around in Waverly

The best way to get around Waverly is by car, as public transportation is limited. Visitors can also rent bicycles or hike trails for more outdoor enjoyment.

Where to Go Next from Waverly: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Nashville - About an hour and a half’s drive, this lively city is known for country music, food, and attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame.

  • Memphis - About a three and a half-hour drive west across the state, Memphis is the home of rock and roll and barbecue.

Conclusion

Waverly is a charming town filled with outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, making it a great destination for travelers looking to escape the big city. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors can experience the best of what Waverly has to offer, from hiking trails to hot chicken, all while immersed in Southern hospitality.