Explore Nolensville, TN: Small-Town Charm in Williamson County
Nolensville, TN, situated about 14 miles east of Franklin, offers the perfect mix of small-town charm with easy access to the amenities of Franklin and the larger Nashville area. With roots dating back to the late 18th century, Nolensville has evolved from a humble farming community into a steadily growing town, attracting both visitors and new residents. Offering a combination of history, diverse dining, recreation, and friendly community spirit, Nolensville is quickly becoming a must-visit destination in Middle Tennessee.
A Brief History of Nolensville, Tennessee
Nolensville was founded in 1797 by William Nolen, who, according to legend, suffered a broken wagon wheel while traveling through Middle Tennessee. Halting his journey, he decided to settle in the area due to its fertile land and abundant natural resources. The town grew rapidly and was incorporated in 1838.
Throughout the 19th century, Nolensville developed as a small farming community. The town’s soil was ideal for agriculture, and its proximity to larger cities like Nashville allowed local farmers to sell their produce and goods in broader markets. Many of the early settlers’ homes and shops still stand today, offering visitors a glimpse into the town’s past. One such landmark is the Nolensville Feed Mill, built in the early 1900s, which remains a beloved local institution and a testament to the town’s agricultural roots.
Nolensville’s history is also marked by its role during the Civil War. The town witnessed military activity as both Union and Confederate forces moved through the region. Following the Civil War, Nolensville continued to serve as a hub for farming families, maintaining its small-town charm throughout the 20th century.
As the greater Nashville metropolitan area began to expand in recent decades, Nolensville found itself in a unique position—close enough to benefit from the growth of the region, yet far enough to retain its rural, close-knit identity. This combination of proximity and preservation has made Nolensville an attractive place for families seeking both a slower pace of life and access to the amenities of a larger city.
For those interested in diving deeper into Nolensville’s history, a visit to the Historic Nolensville School Museum is a must. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, including a recreated 1937 kitchen, a historic classroom, and Grady Bob’s Workshop, which showcases artifacts from the town’s early days. Additionally, the museum houses the Nolensville Sports Hall of Fame and memorabilia from local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops. The museum’s rotating exhibits provide a rich, immersive experience for anyone interested in Nolensville’s unique history.
Nolensville, TN Now: A Blend of History and Modern Living
Today, Nolensville has grown into a vibrant community that blends its historical charm with modern conveniences. As more people discover this hidden gem, Nolensville has managed to keep that close-knit, small-town feel while offering a variety of amenities to suit all kinds of interests. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to raise a family, a fun spot for a day trip, or a town that perfectly balances the old and new, Nolensville has something to offer for everyone.
Where to Eat in Nolensville, TN: A Diverse Food Scene
Nolensville’s restaurant scene is a testament to its growing popularity. The town boasts a wide range of dining options, from classic Southern barbecue to international cuisine.
If you’re looking for drinks and socializing, Mill Creek Brewing Co. offers craft beers, while Happenchance Social Lounge provides a laid-back atmosphere for light bites and drinks.
Known for its whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint draws both locals and visitors with its signature pulled pork, ribs, and hearty, made-from-scratch sides. For family-friendly fried chicken, Outlanders Southern Chicken offers crispy, Southern-style meals in a casual atmosphere. Amico’s New York Pizza & Italian Restaurant serves Italian cuisine, including pizza, pasta dishes, and more. Marco’s Pizza is the place to go for fresh-made pizzas, pizza bowls, and subs.
Mojo’s Tacos serves up flavorful, street-style tacos with a creative twist and bold flavors, while Oscar’s Taco Shop focuses on traditional Mexican favorites like burritos, quesadillas, and tacos. Better Days Diner serves up classic American comfort food, including hearty breakfast plates, burgers, sandwiches, and more.
For Asian cuisine, Yuno Sushi & Asian Cuisine and Keriyaki Asian Cuisine deliver fresh, flavorful dishes. Mad for Galbi is a Korean BBQ restaurant that specializes in traditional Korean dishes, with a focus on galbi, which are marinated short ribs.
Waldo’s Chicken & Beer is perfect for those looking for fried chicken paired with a refreshing drink. Cabos Mexican Restaurant offers authentic Mexican dishes in a relaxed setting while Oh My Chives Natural Market provides health-focused choices like organic produce, sandwiches, and more.
For more casual dining, Roo’s Bar & Grill and West Coast Burgers & Dogs serve up pub-style favorites, while Wings To Go is a local favorite for wing enthusiasts.
Nolensville also offers several cozy spots for coffee lovers. Just Love Coffee Café, Monamie Coffee, and Mama’s Java Café are ideal for grabbing a cup of coffee and relaxing, while Itty Bitty Donuts & Specialty Coffee offers fresh donuts and coffee. For those with a sweet tooth, Sweet CeCe’s is the go-to spot for frozen yogurt, hand-dipped shakes, ice cream cookie sandwiches, old-fashioned ice cream floats, and waffle bowl sundaes.
Shopping in Nolensville, TN: Unique Shops and Boutiques
Nolensville’s shopping scene offers a blend of small-town charm and curated specialty shops, perfect for those looking to find something one-of-a-kind. A local landmark, the Nolensville Feed Mill, is an Amish grocery store and deli that captures the town’s history while offering a variety of goods, including jams, hams, cookies, breads, and more. Small Town Charm brings Southern-inspired fashion and home decor to life, while Wild Blue Market Gift & Decor features carefully selected gifts and home accents, emphasizing handmade and small-batch items.
Families love the Nolensville Toy Shop for its selection of quality toys and gifts, with the added bonus of gift-wrapping services for easy, last-minute shopping. Village Antiques & Gifts is the perfect stop for unique vintage finds, collectibles, and antique treasures.
For those seeking apparel, Threadzz Boutique offers trendy and classic fashions for women, and The Diva Shoppe Boutique showcases stylish and affordable pieces. Happy Place Market & Mercantile is another local gem, featuring handcrafted goods, apparel, local art, home decor, gifts, and more. Stillwater is a boutique offering a collection of women’s clothing and accessories sourced exclusively from women-owned businesses.
Additionally, nellamoon offers locally-made, artisan candles, while The Amish House specializes in handcrafted Amish and Mennonite furniture, home goods, and décor.
Recreation and Outdoor Fun in Nolensville, TN: Activities for Everyone
Nolensville offers a variety of indoor and outdoor fitness and recreation options for residents of all ages.
The Nolensville Recreation Complex, part of Williamson County Parks and Recreation, offers a variety of amenities, including a gymnasium, fitness center, and indoor walking track. It also features group fitness classes, sports leagues, and various programs for all ages.
Summit Sports Center offers a variety of programs for kids, including gymnastics, cheerleading, and tumbling. They provide both recreational and competitive classes for all skill levels, along with fun options like ninja warrior training.
Nature enthusiasts can explore Nolensville Park and Mill Creek Park & Greenway, which offer walking trails, sports fields, and tranquil outdoor spaces. Additionally, Morning Glory Orchard offers a charming retreat with seasonal pick-your-own fruit and local treats, making it a perfect destination for family fun.
For a unique experience, Goat Yoga Nashville blends yoga with playful goats, providing a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors. Tennessee Kids Company is an indoor playground designed for kids aged 1 to 10. It features three levels of soft play, a ball pit, slides, swings, and an Xbox gaming area.
Arts and Culture in Nolensville, TN
Nolensville has a growing arts and culture scene, which provides several avenues for creativity and performance. One key organization is the Artist Guild of Nolensville, which supports local artists through exhibitions, workshops, and community outreach. The guild regularly hosts events like gallery walks and public art shows, providing artists with the opportunity to showcase their work and engage with the community.
Additionally, the Nolensville Performance Collective offers a platform for performing arts in the area. Home to Ignite Dance Company, Stoke Performing Arts, and Beacon, the collective focuses on offering adults a space to learn, collaborate, and grow in their creative talents.
Community Events and Festivals in Nolensville, TN
Nolensville’s sense of community is evident in its annual events, which draw both residents and visitors. In the spring, the Buttercup Festival is one of the town’s most popular events, featuring local artisans, food vendors, live music, and the Miss Buttercup Pageant.
The Star Spangled Celebration is a highlight of summer in Nolensville. Held at Nolensville High School, the event features food trucks, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display. In the fall, the Broken Wheel Festival brings together live performances, food trucks, and artisan booths for a day of fun.
The Nolensville Farmers Market is another community favorite, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local products on Saturdays. The market also features live music, cooking demonstrations, and themed events.
In November, the town hosts its annual Veterans Day Parade and the winter holidays bring the Hometown Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, featuring a holiday parade and tree lighting ceremony. The event includes local performers, festive floats, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
What’s New in Nolensville: Shopping Centers and Residential Growth
Nolensville is experiencing significant growth with new retail and development projects. One of the most prominent additions is the Village Green, a 90,473-square-foot shopping center set to be anchored by Publix. Scheduled for completion in summer 2025, the center will include a variety of businesses such as Heartland Dental, Club Pilates, Jersey Mike’s, Waxing the City, Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, and Physicians Urgent Care. This development will serve as a new hub for shopping, dining, and services, offering Nolensville residents more local options.
Additionally, Nolensville Town Square, a large-scale 27-acre mixed-use development, is on the horizon. The project will combine residential units with retail spaces, offering over 400 homes and multifamily units along with commercial spaces, creating a central location for both living and shopping. This development is part of Nolensville’s effort to create a pedestrian-friendly, community-focused environment.
Nolensville: A Hidden Gem in Williamson County
Nolensville, Tennessee is more than just a quiet town near Franklin—it’s a destination that balances history and modern growth. Whether you’re exploring its rich past, sampling diverse dining options, or enjoying outdoor activities, Nolensville retains its small-town charm while embracing the conveniences of nearby urban areas. With exciting developments on the horizon, Nolensville is quickly becoming one of Middle Tennessee’s must-visit spots. Explore its scenic parks, attend local festivals, and enjoy the welcoming small-town vibe—now is the perfect time to plan your visit to Nolensville, TN!
Want to explore even more of Williamson County? Leiper’s Fork is a must-see destination with unique attractions and activities. Discover all the top things to do in this picturesque village by visiting Leiper’s Fork Must-See Attractions and Activities.
