My role as a trusted accountant in Crossville, TN has shown me that this charming Tennessee town offers much more than spreadsheets and tax forms. A hidden gem nestled in the Cumberland Plateau lies just beyond my office walls, and it bursts with unexpected attractions.

Crossville's reputation as the "Golf Capital of Tennessee" draws many visitors to its nine championship courses. Fairfield Glade alone features an impressive 90 holes. The local treasures are nowhere near limited to fairways though. Cumberland County showcases truly remarkable landmarks, including the spectacular Ozone Falls - a 110-foot waterfall that caught Disney's eye as a filming location for "The Jungle Book". The Cumberland County Playhouse stands out as one of rural America's 10 largest professional theaters and it draws over 145,000 visitors each year.

The newly opened Flatrock Motorsports Park features an impressive 3.5-mile Circuit Club track. This piece reveals five authentic spots that Cumberland County residents like me visit regularly. These locations offer genuine experiences that make our community special, not just tourist attractions.

Deep Draw Yak Ranch

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My trip to Cumberland County's hidden gems starts at one of the most unique farms you'll ever see. Deep Draw Yak Ranch sits in Middle Tennessee's scenic landscape and feels worlds away from my accounting office.

Deep Draw Yak Ranch Overview

Deep Draw Yak Ranch is a small family-owned operation that raises yaks—majestic, exotic bovines native to the Himalayan region. Ali and Kevin Bryant own the ranch, which gives you much more than just a peek at these unusual animals. Their 1.5-hour educational farm tours let you get up close with these gentle giants, along with mini horses, donkeys, and other farm animals.

The ranch stands out because it's not just a farm—it's a complete agritourism experience. You can shop at their Yak Boutique for unique products, join monthly paint parties, and take professional photos against their beautiful property.

The ranch has become a place where you can escape into farm life that blends Cumberland Plateau's charm with hands-on learning about these fascinating creatures. You'll quickly find that yaks are nowhere near as land-hungry as traditional cattle (three yaks can live comfortably on a single acre compared to one cow per acre for many cattle operations).

Why Locals Love Deep Draw Yak Ranch

Living in Crossville, I can tell you we love experiences that bring something different to our community. Deep Draw Yak Ranch has won local hearts for good reasons.

Ali and Kevin's passion shines through everything they do. Visitors often call them "knowledgeable and enthusiastic". Ali leads all tours herself, taking visitors around the property while sharing interesting yak facts.

The hands-on nature of the experience makes it special. Here's what you can do during your visit:

• Feed and scratch the yaks up close

• Spend cuddle time with mini equines (horses and donkeys)

• Meet baby animals including calves and chicks

• Take unlimited personal photos

The ranch's male yaks have Tennessee-themed names like Nashville and Memphis, while females sport cocktail-inspired names like Mint Julep and Tequila Rose. Uncle Jimmy and Razzleberry are the ranch's most famous residents, known as the "top attention and treat hoarders" in visitor reviews.

Best Time to Visit Deep Draw Yak Ranch

The ranch welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM Central Time. They close during January and February, so plan your visit between March and December.

Weather plays a big role in your experience since you'll spend lots of time outdoors with the animals. Bad weather or muddy conditions mean canceled or rescheduled tours. Spring and fall months usually offer the best visiting conditions.

The ranch welcomes school field trips, making it great for families with school-aged children. They host special events like painting classes and holiday celebrations throughout their operating season, giving you more reasons to time your visit right.

Deep Draw Yak Ranch Location & Accessibility

You can find this hidden gem easily:

Address: 1603 Deep Draw Rd, Crossville, TN 38555

Contact Information:

• Phone: (502) 939-2291 / (248) 939-0881

• Email: deepdrawyaks@gmail.com

The ranch sits just outside Crossville proper, keeping its rural charm while staying easy to reach. It's a short drive that leads to something truly unique in Cumberland County.

Tips for Visiting Deep Draw Yak Ranch

Here's what you need to know to make the most of your visit:

Booking and Pricing: Tours cost $20 per person, with a minimum requirement of 4 people or $80 total. Kids 3 and under get in free, while those 4 and older need tickets. Groups smaller than 4 still need to pay the $80 minimum.

Before Arriving:

• Book your spot through their reservation system

• Download and sign the waiver form

• Wear closed-toe shoes (you must have these for the tour)

• Leave pets at home (safety rules don't allow them)

During Your Visit: Plan for about 1.5 hours of walking and animal interaction. Bring your curiosity - these creatures have fascinating stories.

Photography Options: You can take personal photos during regular tours, or book professional photography services ahead of time. The ranch offers beautiful backdrops beyond the yaks, including a historical homestead barn, rushing creek, rustic '51 Chevy truck, and pond with fountain.

This unique farm experience gives you exceptional value compared to other animal encounters or agritourism spots near Crossville TN.

Flatrock Motorsports Park

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Tax season wraps up and my adventurous side takes over. I trade spreadsheets for speed at Flatrock Motorsports Park—Cumberland County's newest attraction that locals and visitors have grown to love.

Flatrock Motorsports Park Overview

A visionary USD 180 million project has altered the map of entertainment in our area. The heart of this amazing facility features a 3.5-mile FIA Grade 2 track designed by the prominent Tilke GmbH. This certification lets the track host all racing series but Formula 1.

Tennessee's natural topography shines through the track's design. It features 23 challenging turns and big elevation changes despite its misleading "flat" name. The 30-degree banking stands out as one of its most spectacular features, coming close to Daytona's famous 31-degree turns.

Racing is just the beginning at Flatrock. The destination continues to grow with future phases including:

• A 2.67-mile Grand Prix track

• A combined "endurance" configuration stretching nearly six miles

• A CIK karting track and skidpad

• A luxury hotel, amphitheater, brewery, winery, and shopping center

Flatrock stands out because it serves as both a public racing venue and private motorclub. Members get luxury amenities and track time on the exclusive Motorclub side, creating a resort atmosphere that car enthusiasts love.

Why Locals Love Flatrock Motorsports Park (so does The Accountant TN)

Cumberland County has evolved before my eyes, and my clients and neighbors share real excitement about Flatrock. The economic benefits are huge—new jobs and tourism dollars flow into our community.

The developers have built this facility with care and local input. They've "been working with the public and having meetings with them since last year," earning support from residents and government groups alike.

Cumberland County families love the venue's versatility. Flatrock wants to be "a destination for the motorsports enthusiast, and not just the driver". People who aren't into cars can enjoy restaurants, swimming, spa services, walking trails, and upcoming concert events.

The facility blends perfectly with our natural surroundings. Flatrock Motorclub sits among Tennessee's most beautiful outdoor spots, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park (under an hour away), Watts Bar Lake, and Cumberland Trail.

Best Time to Visit Flatrock Motorsports Park

Members got first access to the Motorclub track in fall 2024, while the facility grows in phases. The public can look forward to the 2.6-mile Grand Prix course opening in 2025.

Most racing happens in warmer weather, so spring through fall should offer peak activity at the park. Specific events haven't been announced yet, but the facility mentions "a letter of intent from a premier racing series to stage an international-level event".

Members get 200 track days yearly, which leaves 165 days potentially open for public events. This creates plenty of chances to experience the track throughout the year.

Flatrock Motorsports Park Location & Accessibility

The facility's location in Rockwood, Tennessee (just west of Crossville) makes it easy to reach:

• Knoxville sits less than an hour east

• Nashville is two hours west

• I-40 provides direct access

• Atlanta, Birmingham, and Chattanooga are short drives away

• Chicago, Detroit, Washington DC, and New York offer quick flights

This central spot makes Flatrock perfect for weekend trips, drawing both locals and motorsport fans from across the eastern United States.

Tips for Visiting Flatrock Motorsports Park

My local knowledge can help you make the most of your Flatrock visit:

Plan ahead: Check their official website before coming since the facility keeps growing. This helps you know which areas welcome public visitors.

Think about membership: Serious car enthusiasts might want to look into membership options for exclusive Motorclub track access and amenities. The track promises that "access to all will be guaranteed", so non-members will still get to enjoy the facility.

Bring everyone: Flatrock welcomes families with lots of activities beyond racing, unlike typical motorsport venues.

Stay awhile: Flatrock sits close to other Cumberland Plateau attractions. You can explore nearby Ozone Falls or check out other fun things around Crossville.

Keep an eye out: Public races, car shows, and special events will roll out through 2025-2026. These events deserve spots on your calendar.

Cumberland County's world-class motorsport facility adds excitement to our community. That's another reason I tell people Crossville is more than just a place to file taxes—it's becoming quite the destination.

Dogwood Exchange Artisan Market

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My days revolve around balancing ledgers and preparing tax returns for Cumberland County residents. The Dogwood Exchange provides my creative escape. This vibrant artistic haven sits on 12 acres in Crossville's historic Homesteads area and has become one of our community's most cherished creative spaces.

Dogwood Exchange Overview

The Dogwood Exchange story is fascinating. This 3-year old venue started as a retail space showcasing works from approximately 35 local artists. Their collection included recycled furniture, quilts, wood-turned items, and unique home décor. The space changed its focus beyond traditional retail in April 2025.

Owner Angela Witzel now runs Dogwood Exchange as a workshop and retreat venue that builds creativity and community connections. The space hosts:

• Small creative workshops for jewelry making, beginner sewing, quilting, soap-making, fused glass, and cooking classes

• Multi-day retreat experiences for artists and crafters

• The popular Homesteads Artisan Festival twice yearly (Spring and Fall)

This venue stands out because it builds both artistic skills and community ties. Dogwood Exchange creates environments where art happens—a place that serves as both classroom and creative sanctuary.

Why Locals Love Dogwood Exchange

Numbers and spreadsheets fill most of my days. The way this artistic hub strikes a chord with Crossville residents amazes me.

The venue's new direction shows a focus on real creative experiences rather than just shopping. Small group workshops let people learn hands-on skills, something rare these days.

The rustic setting inspires creativity. Log cabin and light-filled barn spaces help visitors forget their daily worries. Artists find their creative spark without traveling far from home.

Local artisans stay connected through the semi-annual Homesteads Artisan Festival. This maker-focused event features only artisans who create their own products. No direct sales vendors can participate. This approach ensures authentic craftsmanship and supports our local creative economy.

Dogwood Exchange also partners with local charities. Community members can pursue their creative interests while supporting causes close to their hearts.

Best Time to Visit Dogwood Exchange

Creative souls looking for things to do in Crossville TN should plan their visits carefully:

Festival Seasons: The Homesteads Artisan Festivals showcase the venue at its liveliest. Save these dates:

• Spring Festival: May 1-2, 2026

• Fall Festival: October 9-10, 2026

These festivals turn the 12-acre property into a craftsmanship celebration. Vendors set up tents the day before, and Blue Life Security watches over everything overnight.

Workshop Retreats: The year-round creative experiences include:

• Open Quilting Retreat: March 20-23, 2026 ($100)

• Jazzin' Up the Junque sessions: Two consecutive events from August 1-5 and August 5-9, 2026 ($750 each)

My accountant brain suggests checking their website often. Classes and retreats fill up quickly.

Dogwood Exchange Location & Accessibility

You'll find this creative haven easily, even if you're new to Cumberland County:

Address: 4950 Highway 127 S, Crossville, TN

Key Geographic Features:

• Just half a mile from Cumberland Mountain State Park

• Part of Crossville's historic Homesteads area

• 12 scenic acres provide plenty of space for events

Contact Information:

• Phone: 931-787-5838

• Email: dogwoodexchange@gmail.com

Tips for Visiting Dogwood Exchange

My experience and venue policies suggest these tips to make your visit better:

Important Venue Changes: The original retail store has closed permanently. The venue now focuses on workshops and retreat programs. Spontaneous visits won't work—all events need advance registration.

Reservation Requirements: Book early. Workshops and retreats often sell out months ahead. Many listed events already show "sold out" status.

Artisan Festival Vendor Information: Local artists wanting to join the Homesteads Artisan Festival should note:

• Submit applications through the venue's website

• All work must be handmade (include photos with application)

• Vendor fees cover both festival days

• Contact Angela Witzel (dogwoodexchange@gmail.com) directly

Workshop Preparation: Check material requirements before attending workshops or classes. The venue sells Wise Owl products like Chalk Synthesis Paint, One Hour Ceramic, brushes, and finishes for creative projects.

Experience Extensions: Cumberland Mountain State Park sits nearby. Many people combine creative workshops with outdoor adventures for a complete Cumberland County experience.

Dogwood Exchange balances my accounting work perfectly. This place brings imagination and community together in Crossville's heart.

Dirty Girls Nursery

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Cumberland County's creative and high-speed attractions are great, but I'm drawn to places that balance nature and nourishment. Dirty Girls Nursery stands out as our community's green-thumbed heart and gives visitors a peaceful yet productive experience.

Dirty Girls Nursery Overview

The nursery started in 2005 as Chardonnay Valley Nursery. It became Dirty Girls Nursery in December 2018 and moved to Tennessee in August 2019. The owner Jim started growing plants at 16 years old. He earned a BS in ornamental horticulture and built an impressive career growing everything from roses to poinsettias.

This place is much more than a plant shop. A 1930s Rock City homestead barn houses this nursery that's now a destination spot. You can buy plants, eat scratch-made food, drink coffee, take classes, or just relax in the park-like grounds. They even let you get creative at their "Plant yer own" station with containers and fairy gardens.

The nursery's growing philosophy makes it special. They grow what they sell and "grow hard" on their plants. Their customers often talk about the plants' exceptional survival rates.

Why Locals Love Dirty Girls Nursery

My years as an accountant in Cumberland County let me see this place become a local favorite. The nursery blends expert plant knowledge with warm hospitality.

The food brings people back regularly. Their scratch-made lattes (called "Mud"), farm-to-table pastries, and meals are popular. People love their homemade syrups and fresh ingredients. A customer praised the "blueberry sourdough and turkey sandwich" and "the friendliest staff".

Plant lovers appreciate the educational offerings. Classes teach everything from succulent pumpkin arrangements to Christmas wreath making. Staff members share planting tips because they want your plants to thrive.

The space serves many community needs. You can grab coffee, buy quality plants, enjoy seasonal festivals, or listen to live music in the Hayloft.

Best Time to Visit Dirty Girls Nursery

The nursery welcomes visitors Thursday through Monday from 9am to 4pm but stays closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Bad weather can force closures, like during January 2026's winter storm.

Fall brings the most activity with their Harvest Festival that features:

• Farm to Fire cooking

• Caramel apples and apple cider

• Real pumpkin lattes

• Local craft beer

• Live music

• Local artisan vendors

Special events fill the calendar. Halloweenie weekend happens October 26. Christmas Artisan vendor events with Santa run November 29-30 and December 13-14. Classes happen year-round. The September succulent pumpkin class ranks as "the absolute favorite" fall activity.

Dirty Girls Nursery Location & Accessibility

You'll find this botanical retreat at:

Address: 697 Dunbar Rd., Crossville, TN 38572 Phone: 931-742-0299 Email: DirtyGirlsNursery@gmail.com (for job applications)

The space lets you explore both retail areas and outdoor grounds. Plan enough time to enjoy more than just plant shopping.

Tips for Visiting Dirty Girls Nursery

Here's how to make the most of your visit:

Book classes and events early by calling 931-742-0299. Popular options like the Succulent Pumpkin Class ($40) fill up fast.

Come early to class to enjoy lunch or specialty drinks. Most events happen in the second-floor Hayloft. Call ahead about ground-floor options if you have mobility concerns.

This place stands out from other Cumberland County attractions. You can shop and dine here for hours. A visitor called it "a cozy happy place" with "very warm staff hospitality".

Plant lovers should tap into the staff's knowledge. These experts grow plants and know Cumberland County's climate well. They'll help you pick the right plants and teach you how to care for them.

The Pour House Bistro

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The Pour House Bistro is my go-to spot for client lunch meetings in Cumberland County. This culinary gem shows how far Crossville's food scene has come.

The Pour House Bistro Overview

The Pour House Bistro sits behind Crossville's historic train depot and has been around since 2014. This downtown spot serves what they call "creative comfort cuisine" in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.

The place grew from a simple bistro into a full-service restaurant. Now it serves everything from gourmet burgers to seafood specials, plus exciting daily creations. The drink menu doesn't disappoint either - you'll find excellent craft beers, wines, and handcrafted cocktails that pair beautifully with the food.

The space hits just the right note between energetic and cozy. You can drop by for a casual meal or celebrate special occasions here. Their website puts it simply: they're "all about good food, great drinks, and happy people".

Why Locals Love The Pour House Bistro

As an accountant that Crossville TN businesses trust, I've seen this bistro win people over time and again. It now ranks #2 out of 98 restaurants in Crossville on Tripadvisor, thanks to its quality food and attentive service.

The menu has something for everyone. Some standout dishes include:

• Spicy Korean Rice Bowl (a review favorite)

• Fish and Chips (shows up in lots of customer photos)

• Farmhouse Burger (locals can't get enough)

• Deadhead Black Bean Burger (vegetarians love it)

The bistro's success comes from more than just great food. Its atmosphere manages to be both trendy and casual - something you rarely find in Cumberland County.

Best Time to Visit The Pour House Bistro

You can visit Tuesday through Saturday during these hours:

• Lunch: 11am - 2pm

• Bar Menu: 2pm - 4pm

• Dinner: 4pm - 9pm

They take Sundays and Mondays off. Weekday lunches get pretty busy. A mid-afternoon visit might work better if you want a quieter meal with the bar menu.

The Pour House Bistro Location & Accessibility

You'll find this downtown spot easily:

• Address: 42 North Street, Crossville, TN 38555

• Phone: (931) 456-0066

• Website: thepourhousebistro.com

The bistro's spot behind Crossville's historic train depot puts you right in the middle of downtown. It's perfect if you want to check out other Crossville attractions.

Tips for Visiting The Pour House Bistro

Book ahead, especially for dinner or group visits. The place fills up fast during peak hours - locals really love it here.

Families exploring Crossville TN will be happy to know kids are welcome, though adults still feel right at home. When weather permits, grab a table outside and enjoy Tennessee's pleasant climate.

They take good care of guests with dietary needs - you'll find vegan options, and the staff can usually handle special requests if you let them know beforehand.

The bistro's central location makes it perfect to combine with some downtown exploring. Spend an afternoon shopping and sightseeing in the historic district before your meal.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

Cumberland County has so much more to show than what meets the eye. My years of balancing books and preparing tax returns led me to explore five local treasures that reveal Crossville's authentic heart. The community surprises even longtime residents with experiences ranging from feeding majestic yaks at Deep Draw Ranch to watching world-class racing at Flatrock Motorsports Park.

Our small town's creative spirit shines through workshops at Dogwood Exchange and the lush sanctuary at Dirty Girls Nursery. The Pour House Bistro shows evidence of our growing culinary scene, proving great dining exists beyond city limits.

These five spots barely scratch the surface of Cumberland County's charm. Most visitors zoom through Crossville and miss these local gems as they head to well-known attractions. We locals know better. These spaces mean more to us than their uniqueness - they bring our community together.

My work helps people manage their financial lives. The Accountant TN LLC, Teri Gibson, handles all your payroll, Quickbooks, clean-up / catch-up and reconciling needs. This gives me time to enjoy these special places that make Crossville my home.

Looking for things to do in Crossville TN? Skip the tourist spots and go where locals hang out. These five destinations show Cumberland County's rich experiences - from adventure and creativity to nature and great food. You'll quickly see why we call Crossville Tennessee's hidden gem.