Bordered on three sides by Tims Ford Lake, Winchester is a favorite playground for Tennesseans and visitors alike.
Located between Nashville and Chattanooga, this charming lakeshore town is a popular site for second homes, so don’t be surprised if you spot a few famous faces among the locals. It’s also a great escape for outdoor enthusiasts drawn to the 10,700-acre lake and 246 miles of shoreline served by three marinas.
“Some people vacation in paradise, others choose to live there,” Yvonne Stewart, special projects coordinator for the City of Winchester, says with a smile.
While aquatic adventure abounds, there’s also plenty to do on dry land. Dive into all the fun featured downtown, including public art displays, shopping, dining, entertainment and events.
“Winchester has spent over a decade revitalizing downtown,” Stewart explains, pointing to changes in infrastructure and aesthetics, including updated streetscapes, walkability, lighting, landscaping and historic façade renovations.
“We have had an influx of new business owners visiting and making plans to locate in our picturesque downtown square,” she says of the continued momentum.
Of course, Stewart adds, there’s plenty to enjoy right now.
“Brighten your day by strolling, shopping, dining and relaxing in historic downtown Winchester,” she encourages. “Casual to fine dining is offered by numerous eateries. Locally owned shops should be visited while viewing the living architecture of the historic buildings. The Old Jail Museum has Civil War artifacts and Dinah Shore (a native daughter) memorabilia and is within walking distance of downtown.”
Shopping & Attractions
Centered around the historic Franklin County Courthouse, Winchester’s nine-block downtown district showcases beautiful architecture. The self-guided Discover Downtown Winchester Walking Tour tells the story of selected sites through information and anecdotes that bring history to life.
Winchester is also part of several Tennessee adventure trails. View stops on the Civil War Trail, the Jack Trail and Tennessee Music Pathways, which honors Winchester’s Grammy-winning artist Mike Farris. Public murals pay homage to other favorite sons and daughters including iconic University of Tennessee coaches Philip Fulmer and Johnny Majors and entertainers Dinah Shore and Hunter Girl.
For more entertainment, enjoy first-run movies in a beautifully restored 1950s setting at Oldham Theater. Downtown’s Kiwanis Amphitheatre hosts live music events in the summer. And while primarily a recording studio, R.A.R.E. is the place to find turntables and “not-so-common” vinyl.
Downtown shops feature gifts, décor and more, including a new antique mall anticipated to open in 2024. Initial It makes every gift personal. Blue Front Drug Store can help with sunburns and scratches, along with soy candles, snacks and goat milk soap. The Lake Store and Meshed both feature apparel, gifts and décor to keep you and your home looking stylish. hatWRKS helps you top off your new look with a custom chapeau. And Russell’s Outdoor and Trading Company gets you ready to hit the lake.
Dining & Entertainment
Whether you want to grab a quick bite at Burger King or savor the cedar plank-roasted salmon at Filo’s Tavern, downtown Winchester suits every taste.
Wings, burgers, oysters and sports are always on tap at Jefferson’s. Piezan Pizzeria Italiano serves up mouth-watering pizza and a full menu of signature entrees ranging from 12-layer lasagna to mussels pomodoro. For elevated Asian cuisine, don’t miss Mali Thai; or stop by Lupita’s Tacos for a quick bit of authentic Mexican cuisine.
Start the morning off with a scone or gluten-free pastry and fresh-brewed cup at Walnut Hill Coffee Company, or stop in at lunchtime for sandwiches, salads and bowls. Boost your energy during the day with protein bites and loaded teas at North High Nutrition Studio or enjoy a sweet treat at Designer Cakes.
And taste four generations of tradition at Branchwater Distillery, a monument to Tennessee’s rich heritage of producing some mighty fine “home brews.” Sip some shine from distiller Bud Kelley, check the performance calendar for live music shows or grab your crew and take a distilling class.
Rest & Relax
It’s a vacation, so pamper yourself from head to toe. Stop in the Glamour Lounge, L Grider Salon, Julia’s on the Square or Miranda’s Beauty Bar for stylish hair, nails and lashes. Feel your best with a workout at ELEV8 or Barre Fly Fitness. While sunscreen is a must, you can still get that sun-kissed look at Xtreme Tanning.
At the end of a busy day, there’s no need to go far. Rest easy at one of several privately owned rentals above the downtown storefronts.
Discover More
“Come discover the good life with beautiful sunsets, smooth waters and smiling faces waiting to greet you in downtown Winchester,” Stewart invites.
For more information on lodging, dining, attractions and events downtown and throughout Winchester, go online to Winchester-TN.com.
