Blog
Sign up to be notified when we publish exciting events and locations in Monterey, TN and the Upper Cumberland area!
Concerts in the Upper Cumberland: White Pines Music Festival
The premier spring concert in the area is upon us! Read on to learn more about theWhite Pines Music Festival in Monterey, TN!Unless you want to miss the most exciting weekend festival in the Upper Cumberland, mark your calendar for May 24-25th!Featuring mega stars...
Trail Season at Meadow Creek Park
Are you a hiker, fisherman, kayaker, climber, or mountain biker looking for a local place to do your thing? Keep reading to learn more about all the exciting things happening at MeadowCreek Park in Monterey, TN!The season for outdoor exploration is upon us and Meadow...
New Monterey Soccer Field Opens in 2025
If you dream it, it can happen. If you build it, they will come.Back in the early 2000’s what was then the Burks Middle School Soccer team became the district champions. The “kicker” was—they had no home field to play or practice on. For any Monterey students who...
A City Built on a Hill Cannot Be Hidden
A city on a hill cannot be hidden. That is what the Bible says. After the new town of Monterey was established along the western edges of the Cumberland Plateau, people soon discovered its rich natural beauty. In modern times, many are rediscovering what the earlier...
“Recipe for Fun”
What do you get when you mix bananas, eggs, and motorcycles? You get a recipe for loads of fun on the mountain!BANANA PUDDING FESTIVAL. (APRIL 5/10 AM-4PM). DOWNTOWN MONTEREY, TN. Sponsored by Center Hill Events, it brought over 10,000 people to Monterey last year....
“Springing Forward”
Aren’t we all glad that February 2025 only had 28 days? The old weather lore is “if it comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb,” or visa-versa. March, we are glad you are here! Spring will finally be here on Thursday, March 20. Just as the new month is...
Metamorphosis
As temperatures hopefully moderate from last month’s snow and fridge temperatures, it is a time to focus on the warmth of things from the heart. As Valentine’s Day approaches, what better way to show your love to your sweetheart than to spend it in Monterey. Just this...
Explore Monterey TN
Happy 2025 from the Hilltops at Monterey! The Bible truly says that “a City on a Hill CANNOT be hid.” We’ve had a blast in 2024 but wait for what we have in store for the new year.. Here’s just a peek from Easter Rabbits to Summer Blasts and visits from St. Nick....
Sapori di Napoli Now Open!
Are you looking for a truly authentic Italian dining experience without having to drive toNashville or Knoxville? Read on to learn more about the newest premier dining option right here in the UC!Italian heritage is on full display in downtown Monterey in the form of...
Monterey Christmas Parade 2024!
Tis’ the season in Monterey and there is no better way to kick off the festivities thanattending the 2024 Christmas parade! Read on to learn more!Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? Does the thought of Santa’s slay, reindeer, floats, hot chocolate, and streets lit...
The Upper Cumberland’s Best Fall Drives Revisited
It’s time for our annual look at the best back road drives (in our opinion) in the area!Buckle up!Fall is upon us. And with it, the opportunity to cruise with the windows down, the radio up, and the coffee warm. And, as we do every year around this time, we’d like to...
The People of Monterey: Coach John Looper
In this month’s blog, we celebrate legendary Monterey High School baseball coach JohnLooper. Batter up!A quarter of a century.25 years spent dominating a sport in your hometown. The John Looper story. From his days as a player to the 719 games he’s coached, John has...
Why YOU should visit Monterey, TN this fall!
It’s time for my annual walk through autumn in my hometown, Monterey, TN. Read along tofind out the reasons I love the season in this beautiful city and why I think you should see itfor yourself in 2024!Coffee at The Lovely Brew. Delicious food and desserts at Los...
Events in the Upper Cumberland: Standing Stone Day 2024
For those looking to take in a Gilmore Girls-esque autumn day, in the closest thing to Stars Hollow you’ll find this side of Hollywood, Standing Stone Day in Monterey, TN is for you!Saturday, October 12th, 2024 will mark the 45th Standing Stone Day in downtown...
The Future of Monterey is Bright
Monterey is a small town, but it’s our sincere belief that the city’s ceiling reachesthe clouds (see their slogan). Read on to learn why the future of Monterey, TN looksincredibly bright.1-40 changed everything. Before that, the main highway connecting Bristol to...
Meet Monterey’s New Mayor, Alex Garcia
Read on to learn more about Monterey’s new headman, Alex Garcia!Cuban-American, second-generation U.S. Citizen, business-centric thinker, mayor of Monterey. Alex Garcia. Monterey’s newly-elected leader takes the reins this month, filling a void left after the passing...
Why Choose Monterey?
In today’s blog, I take a hard left, leave the interstate, and offer a subjective (homegrown) look at why Monterey is a great place to vacation or live. Let’s get started!I grew up in Monterey. I went to MHS and played baseball and basketball throughout my time there....
RV in the Upper Cumberland: Spacious Skies Camp Ground
Looking for a weekend getaway in the Upper Cumberland? Let’s take a look at Spacious Skies Campgrounds in Monterey!What if I told you a hidden treasure that includes cabins, RV slots, stunning views, and more sits just outside Monterey? It’s true. Spacious Skies...
Murder in Monterey?
In today’s blog we look at the untimely death of Monterey’s founding father, T.J.Whittaker. With the help of local historian Dale Welch, this quick look at Monterey’smurderous beginnings will have you begging for more city folklore! Let’s get started.I couldn’t do...
Activities in Monterey: Muddy Pond
In today’s blog, we revisit a treasure of the Upper Cumberland, Muddy Pond! Read onto get a refresher on this destination location that sits right outside Monterey, TN.What if I told you a magical, timeless world exists just 15 minutes from downtown Monterey, TN? It’s...
Fireworks in the Upper Cumberland: Fire on the Mountain!
What if I told you Monterey, TN puts on one of the PREMIER fireworks shows in thestate? Read on to learn more!Are you hoping to attend one of the biggest, most awe- inspiring fireworks shows in the state this year?Look no further than Fire on the Mountain in downtown...
Dining in Monterey
The current state (and future) of Monterey’s food options is bright. Read today’sblog to find out why we truly believe that.Monterey may be a small town, but despite having a population of less than 4,000, Commercial Ave (the city’s “Main Street”) offers visitors a...
Landers Trade Home Solutions Store
Are you looking to build, remodel, or accomplish those pesky spring cleaning chores?Landers Trade Home Solutions Store in Monterey can help! Read on to learn more!With items ranging from automotive to plumbing, and lumber to lighting, Landers Trade Home Solutions...
Monterey legend, James “Cooney” Foster!
Article written by Andrew Buckner If you’ve been to a tee-ball game in Monterey over the last… well, 40 years or so, you know the name James “Cooney” Foster.From challenging umpire decisions to helping lead as an Alderman, the town staple has been in the public eye...
Attraction in the Upper Cumberland: The Monterey Depot Museum
In this month’s blog, we revisit a favorite Monterey destination, the Depot Museum!With train memorabilia, coal mining history, local art, and more, this folksy spot is amustfor anyone visiting the Upper Cumberland!Tragedies, celebrations, gunfights? All and more are...
Making Monterey Proud: Matt Buckner
Did you know that one of the greatest high school coaches in the country grew up inMonterey? It’s true. Read on to learn more about a true hometown legend!Written by Andrew Buckner 21 seasons. 658 wins. 6 TSSAA state championships. 80-plus collegiate...
Live Music: The Old Gray Idol
Local talent, pro sound, delicious food, and a chance to win big? Read on to learnmore about what fans and contestants can expect from The Old Gray Idol finale!Who doesn’t love a good singer-songwriter? James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Ed Sheeran, and your neighbor? You...
Valentine’s Day Shopping In the Upper Cumberland
That most romantic of all days is here and we’ve got some recommendations forValentine’s shopping in the Upper Cumberland! Let’s get started!Ok, significant others, you’re stuck. Right? Valentine’s Day is almost here and you’ve got no gifts, ideas, or hope. Rest easy,...
A Day Spent Dining in Monterey
Are you looking for flavorful coffee, scrumptious treats, and delicious meals while touring picturesque Monterey? We’ve got you covered!So, you’ve got your day trip planned for Monterey, but don’t know where to find sustenance while there. Don’t fret.Today’s blog will...
Whitaker Park, Better Than Ever!
The best kept secret in the Upper Cumberland has upped its game! Read on to learn more about Whitaker Park and the fun improvements that have taken place there!Located just three minutes from the busy world of I-40 sits lovely Whitaker Park in Monterey, Tennessee....
The Characters of Monterey: Rafferty Cleary
Article written by Andrew Buckner In today’s entry, we explore the wonderful wizard of all things Monterey, Cultural Administrator Rafferty Cleary.Despite not being a Monterey native, cultural guru Rafferty Cleary has established himself as an agent of growth, a...
Avoid the Crowds: Christmas Shopping in Monterey
Christmas is almost here and in today’s blog we’re showcasing some of the BEST stress-free shopping spots for the holiday season!Can you hear it? Mariah Carey is belting “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” couples are arguing, and babies are crying as frenzied shoppers...
Thanksgiving in Monterey
Can’t climb into your Netflix account and join the cast of Gilmore Girls for a festive evening in Stars Hollow? No worries, read on to learn more about the next best thing, Thanksgiving in MontereyWe’ve said it before, but Monterey truly is a special place. It’s a...
The Upper Cumberland’s Best Fall Drives
Are you looking for a peaceful drive that offers some of the Upper Cumberland’s most beautiful autumnal sights? We’ve got you covered!Nothing beats a day spent cruising backroads in the fall. The leaves are blowing, the sun is shining, and the air is just crisp...
Fall Overlook Destinations in the Upper Cumberland: Bee Rock
The leaves are beginning to change and the temps are falling. This means, there is no better time to take in the gorgeous views and breathtaking vistas scattered across the Upper Cumberland than now! In this blog, we’re going to introduce you to our personal favorite,...
The Characters of Monterey: Bill Wiggins
Article written by Andrew Buckner You’ve seen him riding a Schwinn around town for the last 60 years, but do you really know Bill Wiggins? Keep reading to hear some personal reflections on one of my favorite people and a Monterey legend.If you follow along, most of my...
Concerts in the Upper Cumberland: Rocktober
Looking for a local place to headbang this fall? The Old Gray in Monterey has you covered!Picturesque farmland. The cool of a Tennessee autumn night. Headbanging icons? Rocktober is upon us once again!Likely to outpace even last year’s massive success, Rocktober 2023...
Growing Up In Monterey
explore what life growing up in Monterey was like for me! This quick, fun journey will pull back the curtain on my experience with small-town living atop the Cumberland Plateau!The crack of a bat rings from the little field as children swing in Whitaker Park. Bimbo...
Events in the UC: Standing Stone Day 2023
If the foothills of the Smokies, cozy weather, a parade, historical presentations, delicious food, and live music sound like your idea of the perfect autumn day, read on!October 14th, 2023 will mark the 44th annual Standing Stone Day in downtown Monterey! A beloved...
The Perfect City to Visit This Fall: Monterey, TN
We may be biased, but in our opinion, nothing is more beautiful than autumn in Monterey, TN. Read further to learn why we feel we love fall on the Cumberland Plateau so much!It’s almost here. A time when fog hangs on the ponds, lakes, and rivers. Leaves dazzle the...
Bulls, Broncs, Barrels, and Bands at the Old Gray
What’s more fun than a rodeo, barrel races, and professional live music? Nothing! Read on to learn more about how all of the above is coming to Monterey, TN, this August!Bull riding. Barrel races. Live music. All of this and more will combine to create one epic...
Upper Cumberland Adventure: The Outpost at Meadow Creek Park
Are you looking for a personalized outdoor adventure in the Upper Cumberland? The Outpost at Meadow Creek Park has you covered.Through the dedication and passion of many wonderful people, Meadow Creek Park has become a travel destination, and “The Outpost” is the...
Ben Anna’s and the French Market
Monterey is growing! Today’s blog highlights a reestablished staple and a newcomer to Commercial Avenue which are both part of the transformation. Read on to learn more. Big changes are happening on “Main Street” Monterey. For starters, an old favorite, Ben...
Events in the Upper Cumberland: 4th of July in Monterey
Looking for a fun, family-friendly way to spend this Independence Day? Montereyhas you covered. Read on to learn more!Fireworks. Live music. Togetherness. All this and more will be provided in Monterey, TN on Monday, July 3rd.As part of the “Summer Nights” concert...
Events in the Upper Cumberland: The Old Gray Revival
The best and brightest in worship music will be on display in Monterey this May! Read on to find out why Old Gray Revival is a MUST ADD to your calendar!We The Kingdom. Jason Crabb. Patrick Mayberry. Jimmy Thorpe. Bobby Davis.Household names for those in the Upper...
Bluegrass and Fellowship in Monterey
Are you a lover of all things folk, gospel, and bluegrass? Read further to learn more about a hidden music gem in Monterey!Do you hear banjo music? If you make your way to the Cumberland Plateau on a Tuesday night, you can catch the joyous sound of mandolins, guitars,...
Spring Activities For the Family: Hope in Monterey
Searching for a festival-style day packed with music, faith, and fellowship? Look no further than Hope in Monterey!Easter is upon us! And with it comes the beauty of church services, egg hunts, and Sunday dinners.But, what if a Saturday prelude to Easter festivities...
The Officer House Massacre
Do “haunted houses” or Civil War history pique your interest? We’ve got just theblog for you!Anyone who’s lived in Monterey for long has heard of “The Civil War House.” For some, this remote home built more than a century ago causes the hair to prickle and the senses...
Pickleball in the Upper Cumberland
Pickleball! The sport TAKING OVER recreational fun from coast to coast will soon be available to the citizens of Monterey!Though a specific date has yet to be set, the Putnam County Parks and Recreation department is planning a renovation of the public tennis area on...
Monterey Garden Club Partners to Protect Birdlife
Read on to learn more about how an exciting partnership between the Tennessee Bluebird Society and the Monterey Garden Club is protecting indigenous birdlife in the Upper Cumberland!Defending and celebrating the natural beauty around us has always been a central tenet...
Dining in the Upper Cumberland: Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant
Ready to have your taste buds ignited while visiting beautiful Monterey? Look no further than Los Agaves!You’ve traveled all day. Traffic, screaming kids, and a low-fuel light have you needing a break from I-40, like now. What’s more, you’re hungry. But, where...
The People of Monterey: Keith and Tammy Phillips
What does the ideal pairing of expertise, passion, and service look like? Keith and Tammy Phillips of Goff Funeral Home! Read on to learn more about how these incredible people make Monterey a better place to live.95 years. That’s how long D.M. Goff Funeral Home has...
Event Centers in the Upper Cumberland: The Old Gray
Searching for an amazing outdoor concert venue where you can catch your favorite acts without leaving the Upper Cumberland? Look no further than the Old Gray!American Idol Winner? Check. Rock Royalty? Yep. Country music legends? You bet. Current chart topper? YES! All...
Relaxing in the Upper Cumberland: Simply Divine Salon
Who doesn’t need a “me” day? From massages and hairstyling to permanentmakeup and facials, Simply Divine has all things relaxation covered!Like Tom and Donna on Parks and Rec, we all need a “treat yo self” day every once in a while. With this in mind, we can’t think...
The People of Monterey: Remembering Charlotte Mccowan
All lives are valuable and worth remembering, but, occasionally, a special person comes along who needs an extra dose of celebrating. In today’s blog, we honor the incredible life of one of Monterey’s finest, Charlotte McCowan. I’m going to miss Charlotte Mccowan. ...
Events in the Upper Cumberland: Monterey Christmas Parade
Looking for some local Christmas fun this year? Read on to learn more about theexciting festive parade happening in downtown Monterey!Mark your calendars for the Monterey Christmas Parade this coming Saturday, December 3rd at 6:30 p.m.! The night is PACKED with...
Remembering Mayor Nathan Walker
In today’s blog, I’ll celebrate the amazing man that was Nathan Walker, and do my best to convey what he meant to all of us.Obituaries are weird. A notorious criminal sounds like a saint when their eulogy is delivered. We fluff up, exaggerate, look over, and lie to...
Haunted Local Folklore: Crazy George’s Bridge
Halloween is upon us, and there’s no better time to visit a spooky (and real) local tale! Disclaimer: this story is not for the faint of heart or young children.A mysterious death. A railroad ghost. Murder? These are often the whispered sentiments heard when locals...
Reasons to Visit Monterey, TN: Autumn on the Plateau
Among the many alluring features which draw visitors to the Upper Cumberland, the splendor of fall reigns supreme. The changing leaves, cooling temperatures, and area events make autumn the perfect time to visit Monterey, TN!Crisp mornings, trees that seem to be made...
The Characters of Monterey: Chris “Mutt” Buckner
Thinking of visiting Monterey, TN? A MASSIVE part of the culture here lives through its wildest characters. One of the most well-known of these is “Mutt” Buckner, and today, we’re going to introduce him! Let’s get started!An affinity for dogs in childhood? An...
Santa Comes to Monterey on December 3
Santa Claus will be coming to the mountain in a big way! The 66th Annual Monterey Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Monterey Civitan Club, Monterey Depot Historical Society and the Town of Monterey will be Saturday, December 3, at 6:30 p.m. The parade will form on E....
Standing Stone Day
Fall weather, a parade, local history, live music, what more could you ask for? Read on to find out why you DON’T want to miss Standing Stone Day in Monterey, TN October 8th!For 43 years Monterey has hosted Standing Stone Day, a celebration of the community and the...
The people of Monterey: Dale Welch
Thinking of visiting Monterey, TN? While here, you’ll want to stop by theDepot Museum and visit Dale Welch. Read on to find out why!The son and grandson of miners, Dale Welch saw the toll the pursuit of coal could take and chose a different story. This passion for...
Touring the Upper Cumberland: Muddy Pond
Are you looking for a rustic getaway filled with fresh flowers, a teaming general store, local honey, and jaw-dropping leather shops? Look no further than Muddy Pond! Located less than 15 minutes from Monterey, TN, Muddy Pond is a must-see when visiting the Upper...
Monterey, TN
Today’s blog is going to be a departure from our normal routine. In this installment, I’m going to share briefly what Monterey, TN means to me!I won’t be sharing a “tourism” blog today. Instead, I’ll be handing over echoes of a life spent in Monterey, TN. From dusty...
Life in Monterey: Service stations, much more than gasoline
Nothing says small-town America like local service stations (and the stories shared over coffee there). Monterey features a couple of these unique spots, and in this month’s blog, we’ll learn a little more about each! Let’s get started! More than gasoline and tire...
Life in Monterey: Buckner’s Casual Wear and Buck’s Fireworks
Among the greatest characters in Monterey lore, Coy Buckner’s standing is secure! Read further to learn more about this wonderful man and his more than 60 years of business (and laughs)! Sparklers. Baseball cards. Endless pranking, laughing, and storytelling. The...
Growing up in Monterey: The Convenience Mart
Life in a small town is all about community, and NOWHERE has the communal spirit thrived over the last few decades quite like the Convenience Mart. Read on to learn more about a place that filled my childhood head with wonder, laughter, and redefined what “family”...
Growing up in Monterey: Monterey Foods
Nothing says Monterey like the people, culture, and service of Monterey Foods! In today’s blog, I share my personal experience working at this incredible grocery store as a teenager! Let’s get started! Skinny, nervous, clueless. Apt descriptors of me on my first day...
Can’t Miss Coffee Shops in the Upper Cumberland: The Lovely Brew
For the “bean heads” out there looking for a fresh, delicious cup of Joe, we’ve got a word or two. Keep reading to learn more about a secret coffee gem tucked away in Monterey called the Lovely Brew! The Lovely Brew was opened in 2020 by locals Rebecca and Jason...
Overlooks in Putnam County: Bee Rock
Are you a resident of the Upper Cumberland looking for stunning views close to home? Bee Rock is for you! Read further to learn more about this jaw-dropping natural wonder right around the corner!Gifted to the City of Monterey by Nashville attorney Bobby Walker in...
Upper Cumberland Car Shows to Visit: Monterey Cruise-Ins
Are you a gear head looking for the BEST classic car shows in the Upper Cumberland this summer? We can help! Read on to learn more about our favorite automotive extravaganza, the Monterey Cruise-In!In our opinion, nothing beats a classic car show. The weather is nice,...
Summer Fun in the Upper Cumberland at Holpp’s Pine Ridge Lake
Are you looking to have a blast without breaking the bank on travel this summerseason? Look no further than Holpp’s Pine Ridge Lake. Read on to learn more about this hidden gem!Hidden Gem What if I told you that a gorgeous, 185-acre lake lay just 20-minutes from I-40...
Whitaker Park, fun for the entire family!
Are you looking for a day out filled with fun, fresh air, and exercise? What if I told you I can help, and the location is only a few minutes from I-40 in Putnam County? Read further to learn more about the hidden gem called Whitaker Park!
Upper Cumberland history on display at Monterey Depot Museum!
From trains and coal mining controversies to local art and oral folk tales, Monterey Depot Museum is the place to be for all things Upper Cumberland! In today’s blog, we’re going to give just a taste of this incredible historical treasure!