How to Spend a Weekend in Manchester, Tennessee

During the Middle Woodland Period, Native Americans lived in the area where Manchester, Tennessee sits today. They built the Old Stone Fort nearly 2,000 years ago and used it as a ceremonial gathering place. The Old Stone Fort is just one of the destinations attracting visitors to Manchester today, though. The various parks and outdoor activities, the vibrant downtown dotted with shops and the numerous restaurants—to to mention, a winery and a brewery—give visitors to Manchester an abundance of things to do.

Photo: Phillip Fryman

If you find yourself in the town home to Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, you’ll experience the spirit of positivity not just during the festival but any day of the year. For a weekend filled with activities and fun, use the following guide to make sure you hit all key destinations.

Saturday

Savor the flavors: dine out in Manchester

Eclectic food experiences give you options. When in Manchester, don't miss the Bonnaroo Burger at Jiffy Burger. The multi-layered burger features an egg among its ingredients. Down the road, Ramsey Grill serves Greek dishes, including gyro sandwiches, Greek salad and baklava.

Photo: Phillip Fryman

Shop the Manchester square

A variety of shops surround the historic Coffee County Courthouse downtown, bringing a dose of antiques, comfortable apparel, stylish clothing, home décor, accessories and traditional Mexican outfits to the square. Check out Downtown Antiques and Boutique, Owen’s Apparel and Provisions, Reese’s Genes Boutique and Evelina’s Boutique.

Catch the local live entertainment

See a show at the Manchester Arts Center Saturday night. The Manchester Arts Center presents shows on Friday and Saturday nights usually. See a list of upcoming shows, which have recently included The SpongeBob Musical, The Ultimate Oldies 70s Show, The Addams Family and Footloose.

Sunday

Explore nature at Manchester's state park

Take a morning walk in the area where Native Americans built Old Stone Fort 2,000 years ago. Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park offers several trails winding through beautiful scenery along the river, and a museum, which is open daily 8am to 4:30pm. The Little Duck River Greenway connects Old Stone Fort to several parks in Manchester and has its own mural trail.

Photo: Phillip Fryman

Eat at J&G Pizza and Steakhouse

With some restaurants closed on Sunday, J&G Pizza and Steakhouse is a great choice as it's open from 10:30am to 3pm. One of the oldest eateries in town, J&G Pizza and Steakhouse has served pasta, steak, chicken and pizza, including the loved-by-all House Special pizza, since 1972. The House Special features pepperoni, yellow onions, green peppers, mushrooms, beef, mozzarella and sausage—what more can you ask for?

Sip wine at Beans Creek Winery

Wine tasting is among the things to do on a weekend in Manchester. Beans Creek Winery is open 1 to 5pm on Sunday. Take a tour of the winery, learn about the winemaking process and sip wine from locally grown grapes.

Enjoy craft beer at Common John

If you’re more of a brewery fan, Common John Brewing Company is a no-brainer. In addition to craft beer the brewery also provides a food menu, serving tacos, pizza and sandwiches. Common John Brewing Company highlights the talent of local musicians. See upcoming events at the brewery and plan your visit accordingly.

Photo: Odinn Media

For more information and restaurants in Manchester, browse our Coffee County travel tips here.