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With the dog days of summer well under way, there's no better time to press pause, drop what you're doing, and hit the roadeven if just for the day. Limited vacation time? No problem.
Readyville Mill, TN
Distance: 50 miles
Why you're going: A historic gristmill that now doubles as one of the best eateries around
What you're doing: Since 1812, Readyville Mill has stood tall over Stones River, but it has changed hands many times over the course of two centuries and evolved from a water-powered gristmill to a lumber mill to, today, a restaurant and special events venue (though the mill is still operational).
Readyville Mill has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973 and was purchased last year by Goodness Gracious Café, a beloved breakfast spot that relocated from its post on the Murfreesboro square out to the mill. Now, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday is packed with enthusiastic diners who want to eat their way through the lengthy menu of savory options, like the blackened salmon eggs Benedict, or sweets, such as the popular cinnamon swirl pancakes.
Tip: The café does take weekend brunch reservations, so call in advance or prepare to wait an hour (or more). If you don't plan ahead, have your camera ready as there's plenty to see and snap around the expansive grounds as you wait.
