Manchester is located in the heart of Central Tennessee, halfway between Chattanooga and Nashville, and is the county seat of Coffee County. Genteel Southern hospitality and charm welcome visitors to this warm and friendly community, and there are plenty of fun and interesting things to do here. Among the exciting options are visiting America’s largest aerospace testing facilities at Arnold Engineering Development Center, and touring the Arrowheads/Aerospace Cultural Center. History buffs in particular will enjoy touring the Cultural Center, which presents local Indian artifacts; Civil War photos, clothes, weapons, and documents; local agricultural and textile industry history; award-winning scale replicas of famous pioneer and Colonial-era buildings; antique home-furnishing collections; and information on the impact of World War II, as General Patton trained his 600,000 troops nearby.
Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in exploring both the May Prairie Natural Area, where lovely flora and fauna flourish, and the Old Stone Fort State Park, which offers hiking, biking, birding, fishing, boating, golfing, picnicking, and camping among beautiful waterfalls. This park also features a fascinating Native American archeological site and museum – Native Americans lived in this area 1,500-2,000 years ago! The annual, four-day Bonnaroo Music Festival features a wide variety of live, continuous music, artists, and vendors, and it attracts over 80,000 people to the city!
Another fun annual event is Old Timer’s Day, which celebrates the heritage of Manchester and kicks off with a parade through town. Music, dancing, amusement rides, games, and a beauty pageant are enjoyed by people of all ages, as are refreshments and arts and crafts for sale. Visitors can also browse through interesting art galleries, craft centers, and stores; sip local wines at Beans Creek Winery; and enjoy a delicious meal at an inviting restaurant. When you have the chance, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the welcoming town of Manchester. Hotels in the area allow you to stay conveniently close by to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you can enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. We look forward to hosting you soon! Plan your trip with our Tennessee travel guide. Reserve your room today!