Free Things to Do in Murfreesboro (That Are Actually Worth Your Time)
LOOKING FOR BUDGET-FRIENDLY FUN IN MURFREESBORO?
You don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy a great day in Murfreesboro, and I’m here to prove it. Whether you’re a local trying to fill a weekend or visiting town and wanting to stretch your travel budget, there are plenty of free things to do that are actually worth your time.
I’ve lived in Middle Tennessee for over 20 years, and along the way, I’ve discovered some real local gems.
In this guide, I’m sharing my favorite free things to do in Murfreesboro, including:
In this post, you’ll find:
- Outdoor activities
- Family-friendly spots
- Local events
Let’s dive into all the ways you can explore Murfreesboro on a budget and still have a great time doing it.
Best Free Outdoor Activities
Murfreesboro has no shortage of beautiful outdoor spots you can enjoy without spending a dime. Whether you’re in the mood for a walk, a quiet picnic, or some fresh air with the family, these are some of my favorite places to go when I want to soak up a pretty day.
Stones River National Battlefield
This historic site is more than just a battlefield, it’s one of the best places in town to walk, bike, or explore. The paved and wooded trails weave through open fields and wooded areas, and there’s a peacefulness to it that makes it perfect for a solo stroll or a quiet morning out. You’ll also find educational markers throughout, if you want to learn a bit as you go.
TRAVELISTA TIP: The visitor center for Stones River Battlefield is also free to visit and is full of interesting information on the Battle of Stones River. They also occasionally host free events that history buffs would love!
Stones River Greenway & Arboretum
The greenway stretches across Murfreesboro and connects several parks and natural areas, making it a favorite for walkers, runners, and bikers. The section along the Stones River is especially pretty, and the arboretum areas are great if you enjoy spotting native trees and plants. Bonus: most of the trail is shaded and stroller-friendly.
Barfield Crescent Park Hiking Trails
If you’re up for a more wooded adventure, head to Barfield Crescent Park. The trails near the Wilderness Station feel like a mini escape into the woods, with a mix of paved and dirt paths depending on how deep you want to go. It’s a great spot for hiking with kids, and you’ll likely see deer, birds, and maybe even a turtle or two.
Old Fort Park & Fortress Rosecrans Trails
Old Fort Park is a community favorite and not just for the playgrounds and picnic spots, but for the historic walking paths around the old Civil War fortress. The trails are flat and easy to walk, and it’s a great way to mix a little history with your outdoor time. The shade here is especially nice on hot days.
Arrington Vineyards
Just a short drive from town, Arrington Vineyards offers beautiful views and a laid-back atmosphere — and yes, it’s totally free to visit.
You can bring your own picnic, spread out on the hillside, and enjoy the scenery. There’s often live music on the weekends, and while you can purchase wine if you’d like, there’s no pressure to spend anything if you just want to enjoy the experience.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Every Friday from May to October is Food Truck Friday at Arrington Vineyards for those wanting to purchase food instead of packing a picnic.
Explore Murfreesboro’s History for Free
If you’re a fan of local history or just love wandering around places with a story to tell, Murfreesboro has a few free spots worth checking out. These are all great ways to step back in time without spending a cent.
Cannonsburgh Village
Cannonsburgh is one of those places that feels like a little time capsule. It’s a recreated pioneer village with historic buildings like a gristmill, schoolhouse, general store, and even a log cabin church. You can walk the grounds for free and get a glimpse of what life looked like in early Tennessee. It’s self-guided, quiet and a great stop for history buffs or families.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Cannonsburgh Village is also home to the World’s Largest Cedar Bucket.
Oaklands Mansion Grounds
While there’s a fee to tour the inside of Oaklands Mansion, the grounds are free to explore. The lawn is beautiful, especially in the spring, and it’s a peaceful place to walk or sit under the big trees for a bit.
The grounds are dotted with informational signs about the mansion, the Maney family, and both of their roles in the Civil War. You’ll get a nice view of the historic architecture and can even spot the old spring that helped support the estate.
Historic Murfreesboro Walking Tour
Downtown Murfreesboro is full of charm and history. You can create your own walking tour by exploring the historic courthouse square, checking out the murals, and reading the plaques scattered around town.
Keep an eye out for old churches, original storefronts, and signs that tell the story of how the city grew up. You can even find many historic homes strolling down Main Street.
Explore the Campus of Middle Tennessee State University
MTSU’s campus is open to the public and great for a casual stroll. You’ll find public art, wide open green spaces, and historical markers around campus. There’s also a Veterans Memorial and arboretum areas if you enjoy nature with a side of learning. It’s a relaxing spot for an afternoon walk or an easy way to get in a few extra steps.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Park across the street from campus (for free!) at Bean Loft Coffee Company, grab a beverage to go, and stroll campus!
Free Family-Friendly Fun
If you’ve got kids to entertain, Murfreesboro has plenty of places where you can let them burn off energy without spending a dime. These spots are easy, fun, and mom-approved. I’ve tested most of them out myself over the years.
Gateway Island & Fountains Area
This is one of my favorite low-key places to take a walk with the kids. The paved path around the water is stroller-friendly and perfect for little legs. You’ll see ducks, turtles, and maybe even a heron or two.
Right next door, there’s a splash-friendly plaza at The Fountains where kids can run around while you sip a drink from one of the nearby spots.
City Parks & Playgrounds
Murfreesboro has some seriously good parks. Old Fort Park is a classic with its huge playground, walking trails, and wide open spaces for running and playing. Barfield Crescent, Sports Com, and Patterson Park are also great picks. Most parks have shaded areas, bathrooms, and places to picnic — all the things you need for an easy afternoon out.
The Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent
Tucked into the woods at Barfield, the Wilderness Station is part nature center, part trailhead, and full of hands-on fun for kids. There are exhibits, touch tables, and often free programs like scavenger hunts or guided hikes. Even just hanging out on the porch and spotting wildlife nearby makes it a great stop with little ones.
Linebaugh Public Library Kids’ Section
The downtown library is a solid rainy-day option. The children’s section has puzzles, games, and a cozy reading corner, and they offer free story times and activities throughout the year. It’s small enough to be manageable with toddlers, but still has plenty to keep older kids engaged too.
Greenway Biking & Scootering with Kids
The greenway is wide, flat, and ideal for beginner bikers or scooter riders. You’ll find several access points around town, so it’s easy to pick a section that works for your crew. Plus, there are plenty of shady spots and benches along the way for snack breaks or just catching your breath.
Go to Animal City to See the Animals
This little pet store is a hidden gem for families. It’s free to visit, and kids can check out all kinds of animals from snakes to birds, bunnies, fish and more. It’s like a mini zoo without the ticket price. They even have puppies and kittens waiting to be adopted that you can play with! Just be warned… your child will ask for a pet on the way out.
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Free Seasonal Events
Murfreesboro really comes to life during community events, and the best part is that many of them don’t cost a thing. These festivals and gatherings are perfect for families, couples, or anyone just wanting to soak up that small-town feel without spending money.
JazzFest & FolkFest on the Square
These downtown festivals are some of the best free events in town. JazzFest brings live music, food trucks, and a fun, laid-back vibe to the courthouse square each spring.
FolkFest usually happens in early summer and features international dance groups, live performances, and booths celebrating global cultures. Both events are kid-friendly and easy to pop in and out of throughout the day.
Murfreesboro Saturday Farmers Market
Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, the farmers market on the square is a great Saturday morning outing. You can walk around, listen to live music, sample local produce, and check out handmade crafts and treats. It’s stroller-friendly and usually buzzing with energy — plus, the people-watching is top-notch.
TRAVELISTA TIP: The Saturday Market typically runs late spring through fall, so there is plenty of opportunity to check it out.
Free Outdoor Movie Nights
During warmer months, keep an eye on the city’s event calendar and library listings for free movie nights in the park or downtown. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and settle in for a cozy community evening. These events usually start around dusk and are great for all ages.
MTSU Homecoming Parade & Campus Festivities
Every September, MTSU invites the whole community to celebrate homecoming weekend. The parade runs down Main Street and in front of campus and is full of floats, music, and local spirit. Afterward, the tailgate area is packed with free activities like bounce houses, live music, food tents, and games, and you don’t need a game ticket to join in on the fun. It’s one of the best ways to feel part of the campus energy without spending a dime.
Trunk or Treating & Fall Festivals
All through October, local churches and community groups host free trunk-or-treat events and fall festivals around town. These are totally free to attend and usually include candy, games, inflatables, music, and even costume contests. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy the season without spending a thing, and there’s almost always something happening every weekend.
TRAVELISTA TIP: On Halloween afternoon, you can Trick or Treat at the local business around the square in downtown Mufreesboro. It is fun, free even that usually draws a large crowd and lots of colorful costumes!
Tree Lighting & Holiday Parade
Downtown Murfreesboro’s Christmas parade and tree lighting events are always worth showing up for.
The Tree Lighting is held in the first few days of December, this festive event kicks off the holiday season in the sweetest way. The downtown square fills up with families for an evening of free games, live music, hot chocolate, and visits with Santa Claus — and yes, there are usually real reindeer to meet, too. It’s the kind of small-town magic that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie.
Usually held in mid-December, the Christmas parade is a longtime local tradition. Floats from small businesses, schools, and community groups roll through downtown, with marching bands, dance squads, and plenty of candy for the kids. Santa Claus always makes a grand appearance, and the whole event feels like one big hometown celebration. Bring chairs or blankets and plan to arrive early — it draws a crowd!
Free Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
These spots may not make every travel brochure, but locals know they’re worth a visit. If you’re looking to explore a quieter side of Murfreesboro, these free gems are easy to miss, but once you find them, you’ll be glad you did.
Discovery Center Outdoor Trails & Murfree Spring Wetlands
Tucked behind the Discovery Center and just minutes from downtown, this peaceful little spot feels like a hidden nature escape. A boardwalk winds through the wetlands where you can spot turtles, birds, and frogs, and there are a few hands-on water features that kids love to play around. It’s stroller-friendly, shady, and the perfect mix of fun and calm, especially if you’ve got little ones who need to move.
Murals Around the Square
Murfreesboro has a growing collection of public art and murals, especially around the courthouse square. They make great photo backdrops and are fun to hunt down while walking downtown. Some are tucked into alleyways, others are bold and bright right on the side of buildings. Make it a little adventure to see how many you can find!
Things To Do if You’re Willing to Spend a Little Money
If you don’t mind spending a few dollars, there are some great options around Murfreesboro that offer big fun without breaking your budget. These are the places my own family has gone back to time and time again, especially when we need an indoor activity, a fun afternoon out, or a little treat day.
TRAVELISTA TIP: If you want a fun, unique way to explore downtown Murfreesboro grab this cheap Zombie Scavenger Hunt. Complete some zombie inspired challenges to see if you would survive a zombie apocalypse.
Discovery Center
This was the very first activity my family did when we moved to Murfreesboro, and we were hooked. A day pass gives you access to a full day of hands-on exhibits, and there’s something for every age group. My daughter especially loved the water table when she was little. Whether it’s hot, rainy, or cold outside, the Discovery Center is a great all-day spot that’s absolutely worth the small admission fee.
Flashback Arcade
This one’s a hit for both kids and grown-ups. A day pass here lets you play all the games you want — no tokens or quarters needed. And you can even leave and come back later the same day. It’s one of the most affordable indoor play options around and has plenty of retro games that bring back all the nostalgia.
Bradley Museum
If you’re into local history, Bradley Museum is a small but meaningful stop. It focuses on African-American history in Rutherford County and is housed in one of the county’s first schools for Black students. Admission is just a few dollars, and it’s a thoughtful way to connect with the deeper stories of the area.
Catch a Show at Center for the Arts
I love this local theater! The shows are high-quality and the ticket prices are way more reasonable than what you’d pay in Nashville. There’s usually something playing every weekend, and most shows are family-friendly. They even have a children’s theater program, which puts on performances with all-kid casts. My daughter has performed in several shows here, and it’s such a great local gem for both entertainment and community.
TRAVELISTA TIP: If you are local and looking for something fun to be a part of, Center for the Arts posts their audition information on their website! Being a part of a show is a great way to build community and meet new people!
Bowling at Lanes Trains & Automobiles
We go here often for budget-friendly family bowling. You can bowl without spending a ton, and in the summer, they’re part of the Kids Bowl Free program. If you want to make it a full outing, they also have an arcade and food available. It’s a solid go-to when you need a low-key activity that works for a group.
Day Pass at Patterson Park or Sports*Com
Our local community centers offer so much for just a few bucks. My family lives near Patterson Park and we’ve spent a lot of time there over the years. The indoor pool has a water playground and a lap pool, plus there’s a library, a walking track, weight room, gym, and even a community theater. They also host low-cost classes and events that are perfect for families. Sports*Com offers similar amenities with outdoor pool features during the summer months.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Sports*Com is also home to Boro Beach which makes my list of Best Water Parks in Tennessee.
Cheap Movies at Premier 6 Theater
This theater is a favorite of ours when we want to see a movie without spending a fortune. Tickets are about $5 less per person than the big-name theaters in town, and while it’s not super fancy, it gets the job done. We used to come here all the time when my daughter was little, and it’s still a great affordable option for a movie night.
Tips for Planning Your Free Day in Murfreesboro
A little planning can go a long way when you’re trying to keep your day fun and free. Here are a few things I’ve learned from exploring Murfreesboro over the years, especially with kids in tow.
Where to Park Without Paying
Most businesses around town have their own free parking lots, so you usually won’t have to worry about paying to park — except when you’re downtown. Parking right in front of the spot you want can be tricky, and street parking around the square has a 2-hour limit.
Thankfully, there are two free parking garages downtown:
- One at the public library (accessed on Church Street)
- One across from the courthouse
Both are just a short walk to the square, restaurants, and many of the places mentioned in this post. If you’re spending a few hours downtown, those garages are your best bet.
Kid-Friendly Must-Brings
If you’re out with little ones, packing smart can make all the difference. I always recommend:
- Reusable water bottles
- Snacks (especially for those long trail walks or splash zone breaks)
- Change of clothes for splash pad or fountain areas
- Sunscreen & hats for summer days
- A lightweight stroller or scooter for tired feet
- And don’t forget bug spray if you’re heading out to the greenway or wetlands!
Being just a little prepared helps the whole day run smoother, and lets you enjoy all these free adventures without any mid-day meltdowns.
Planning Your Murfreesboro Trip
If you’re planning a visit to Murfreesboro — or anywhere in the South — I’d love to help. I offer custom travel planning services designed to take the stress off your plate so you can actually enjoy the trip.
Whether you’re coming for a quick weekend getaway, a family vacation, or just passing through on a road trip, I can help you find the best local experiences, choose the right places to stay, and create a flexible plan that works for your schedule and budget. I’ll also help with restaurant suggestions, fun stops along the way, and even special touches if you’re celebrating something.
I’ve lived in Tennessee for over 20 years and truly love helping people explore it like a local, without getting overwhelmed by all the options.
If that sounds like something you’d love, click the button below to get started!
Final Thoughts: Free Things to Do in Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro is one of those towns that surprises you — in the best way. There’s so much to do here that doesn’t cost a thing, and whether you’re chasing down murals, hiking peaceful trails, or letting the kids run wild at a local park, it’s easy to have a great day without spending money.
These are the places and experiences I’ve personally come to love over the years, and I hope they help you plan a fun and memorable visit.
If you need help planning your visit or want someone to help piece together an easy, stress-free itinerary, I’m just a message away.
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