WELCOME TO WALKING HORSE COUNTRY
In the heart of Middle Tennessee, Bedford County is known for rich agricultural roots, charming small towns, and the proud legacy of the Tennessee Walking Horse. Walking Horse Country brings together Shelbyville, Bell Buckle, Wartrace, and Normandy as one destination filled with history, culture, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable local flavor.
Explore historic uptown Shelbyville for shopping, antiques, and standout dining, then relax along the Duck River or plan your visit around the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Stroll the sidewalks of Bell Buckle for artisan shops, iconic festivals, and classic Southern cooking. Discover Wartrace, the Cradle of the Tennessee Walking Horse, with its museum, revitalized downtown, and local eateries. In Normandy, enjoy peaceful escapes on Normandy Lake or a float down the Duck River.
Walking Horse Country offers a fully authentic small town Tennessee experience, rooted in tradition and hospitality.
May - Wartrace Strawberry Festival
July - Bedford County Fair
June - Wartrace Music Festival
June - RC Cola-Moonpie Festival
RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCES
DINING OPTIONS
Glass Hollow Table & Tavern
123 South Side Square, Shelbyville
Spacious casual venue for steak and other American fare, as well as a salad bar Barrel House BBQ II
Casual eatery serving smoked meats as well as grilled cheese sandwiches and burgers. Bocelli Pizza & Pasta Shoppe
Informal restaurant specializing in pizza, pasta dishes, salads, and other Italian eats. Grindstone Cowboy
Shovel Pizza
102 W Depot St, Shelbyville
100 S Spring St, Shelbyville
A multifaceted establishment serving great food, coffee, and occasional live music.
205 E Depot St, Shelbyville
A family-owned pizza restaurant located on the Shelbyville square.
Pope’s Cafe
3125 US-231, Shelbyville 120 Public Square E, Shelbyville
A long standing cafe that serves classic made-to-order burgers and other fare.
Bell Buckle Coffee Shop
2 Railroad Sq, Bell Buckle
Books, games, and music are offered at this relaxing hang-out for coffee, tea, and bites. Bell Buckle Cafe
16 Railroad Sq, Bell Buckle
Casual, old-fashioned diner featuring hearty American platters, burgers, pizza, & more.
The Iron Horse
23 Main St E, Wartrace
Offering fried pies with hand-crimped flaky crusts and homemade fillings.
Rock House Deli
98 Main St E, Wartrace
A pizza joint offering burgers, wings, and craft beer in a casual venue.
Nash Family Creamery
4019 US-41A, Chapel Hill
Family business offering premium ice cream, gourmet sandwiches, and baked goods.
LODGING OPTIONS
Glass Hollow Table & Tavern
123 South Side Square, Shelbyville
Restaurant on the square that features four beautiful airbnbs on the second floor.
Microtel Inn & Suite
1207 N Main St, Shelbyville
A comfortable hotel with modern rooms, free breakfast, WiFi, and friendly service. Belmont Inn
422 Belmont Ave, Shelbyville
Stay in the historic 1852 Evans House, 10 minutes from historic uptown Shelbyville. Best Western
724 Madison St, Shelbyville
A pet-friendly hotel with hot breakfast, a heated indoor pool, fitness center, and WiFi
UNIQUE SHOPPING OPTIONS
The Pomegranate Shoppe
107 South Side Square, Shelbyville
A gift shop carrying home decor, Kendra Scott, Ronaldo, ENewton & Able accessories.
Bring it Back Games & Collectibles
108 Lane Pkwy, Shelbyville
A variety store full of unique treasures: collectibles, vintage games, records, and more.
The Shops at Main and McGrew
100 S Main St, Shelbyville
A large antique store housed in a 19th-century former library and post office.
Yesterdays Treasures
105 Public Square W, Shelbyville
A sprawling antique shop just off the square featuring collectibles and vendor booths. Ole Grapevine
Antiques
115 Main Ave S, Fayetteville
Antique furniture store offering home goods, a garden center, and lamp repair services. Hilltop Antiques
12 Railroad Sq, Bell Buckle
Carrying antiques, primitives, gift baskets, paintings, jewelry, and more.
Simplicity in Bell Buckle
6 Railroad Sq, Bell Buckle
Boutique offering antiques, home decor, candles, bags, and baked goods
Livery Stable Antique Mall
107 Main St, Bell Buckle
Showcasing a variety of items from furniture to collectibles, jewelry, and more.
The Wartrace
Emporium
100 Main St E, Wartrace
Carries an eclectic mix of handmade, repurposed, and artist-designed goods.
The Shoppes at 31 Main
31 Main St E, Wartrace
Discover local artisans, unique gifts, candles, farmhouse decor, & more under one roof.
Southern Goods Mercantile
7 Main St E, Wartrace
A locally owned collection of shops all in one place, featuring jewelry and clothing.
PLEASE SCAN THIS QR CODE TO FIND MORE
PLEASE SCAN THIS QR CODE TO FIND MORE
PLEASE SCAN THIS QR CODE TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EACH SUBJECT WHILE INFORMATION ABOUT EACH SUBJECT WHILE INFORMATION ABOUT EACH SUBJECT WHILE YOU ARE EXPLORING THE GUIDE, THANKS TO YOU ARE EXPLORING THE GUIDE, THANKS TO YOU ARE EXPLORING THE GUIDE, THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS AT EXPERIENCE TENNESSEE. OUR PARTNERS AT EXPERIENCE TENNESSEE. OUR PARTNERS AT EXPERIENCE TENNESSEE
SHELBYVILLE
COOPER STEEL ARENA
SHELBYVILLE
The Celebration
In the heart of Walking Horse Country, Shelbyville plays host to one of Tennessee’s most iconic and long-standing events. The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, often simply called “The Celebration,” is more than a horse show. It is a defining tradition that has shaped the identity of the region for generations.
The idea for a Walking Horse festival dates back to the late 1930s and is generally credited to Henry Davis of nearby Wartrace. What began as a way to showcase the smooth, natural gait of the Tennessee Walking Horse has grown into a nationally recognized event that draws competitors and spectators from across the country. Today, The Celebration® refers both to the event and the organization that produces it each year.
Held annually in Shelbyville, the event takes place on an expansive 100plus-acre equestrian complex. The grounds are designed to handle the scale of the show, featuring a 30,000-seat outdoor stadium, a 4,500-seat indoor arena, and permanent stalls for more than 1,700 horses. Campgrounds with full hookups allow visitors to stay on-site, creating a lively and immersive atmosphere throughout the event.
Each year, The Celebration spans 11 days and nights, leading up to the Saturday before Labor Day. More than 2,000 horses compete in a wide range of classes, each highlighting the grace, presence, and signature movement of the breed. As the days progress, the energy builds, with larger crowds and a growing sense of anticipation each night.
The final Saturday night is the highlight for many visitors. This is when the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse® is crowned. The moment is steeped in tradition, and the excitement in the stadium is unmistakable. Even for those new to the event, it is easy to feel the significance as the winning horse makes its final pass.
The Celebration has helped establish Shelbyville as the “Walking Horse Capital of the World,” drawing visitors from more than 40 states and selling nearly a quarter of a million tickets each year. While the competition is the main event, there is plenty to experience beyond the arena. Visitors can walk the grounds, see the horses up close, and get a better sense of the culture surrounding this long-standing tradition.
For anyone visiting Walking Horse Country, timing a trip around The Celebration provides a deeper connection to the region and offers a chance to experience a piece of Tennessee heritage that continues to thrive today.
Floating the Duck River in Normandy
Flowing 284 miles across Middle Tennessee, the Duck River holds a special place in the region’s landscape. It is the longest river located entirely within the state, and it is also recognized as the most biologically diverse river in North America. With more than 50 species of freshwater mussels and over 150 species of fish, the Duck offers more than just a scenic float. It is a living ecosystem that draws paddlers, anglers, and nature lovers year after year.
One of the best ways to experience the river is from Normandy, where Lucky Duck River Rentals makes getting on the water simple and accessible. Located right along the river, this outfitter is designed with visitors in mind, whether you are planning a quick afternoon float or a half-day adventure.
The stretch of the Duck River from Normandy Dam downstream to Hall’s Mill is known for being swift and rocky in places, which makes it especially appealing for those interested in fishing, particularly for bass. At the same time, the river remains approachable for casual paddlers who want to take in the scenery and enjoy a peaceful ride.
Lucky Duck River Rentals offers a range of options to match different experience levels and timeframes. Kayak and canoe rentals are available with float trips ranging from about 1.5 hours to 4.5 hours, giving visitors flexibility based on their schedule. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, they also offer a unique option often called “tanking.” Using repurposed farm stock tanks, these floats provide a slower, more relaxed way to enjoy the river, especially for groups who want to spend more time drifting and socializing.
If a tubing trip sounds more appealing, Lucky Duck also offers highquality float tubes designed to connect together, making it easy for groups to stay together on the water No matter which option you choose, the team provides all the essentials, including paddles and life jackets, so visitors can focus on enjoying the experience.
Before or after your float, the on-site market is worth a stop. It carries basic supplies along with items like fishing gear, making it easy to pick up anything you might need for the day. For those who want to extend their visit, Lucky Duck also offers a primitive campground with unique accommodations, including yurts and a treehouse. Firepits, hammocks, and open space create a relaxed setting for a full weekend outdoors.
Located at 103 Front Street in Normandy, Lucky Duck River Rentals serves as an easy access point to one of Tennessee’s most remarkable natural resources. The Duck River offers a memorable way to experience the natural side of Walking Horse Country.
THE SHOPS AT MAIN AND MCGREW
GRINDSTONE COWBOY
GLASS HOLLOW TABLE & TAVERN
BOCELLI PIZZA & PASTA SHOPPE
SHELBYVILLE
SHELBYVILLE
SHELBYVILLE
historic uptown shelbyville
Historic uptown Shelbyville has always had strong roots, but in recent years, it has taken on a new level of energy that makes it a destination in its own right. Centered around its historic square, this area blends deep history with a growing lineup of restaurants, gathering spaces, and experiences that invite visitors to stay awhile.
At the heart of it all is the Shelbyville square, a layout known as the “Shelbyville Plan.” This early American design, with roads framing a central courthouse, became a model for small towns across the country. While that layout may feel familiar, Shelbyville’s version carries a long and layered history The current courthouse, completed in 1935, stands on a site that has seen multiple buildings rise and fall over more than a century. Walking the square today, it is easy to feel that sense of history in the architecture, the brick storefronts, and the rhythm of the streets.
What makes downtown Shelbyville stand out now is how that history is being paired with new life. Local investment and thoughtful restoration have turned the square into a place where visitors can spend an entire afternoon or evening.
One of the standout additions is Glass Hollow Table & Tavern, located inside the historic Knox Pitts Hardware building. This locally owned steakhouse brings an elevated dining experience to the square, with a focus on dry-aged steaks, seasonal ingredients, and carefully crafted cocktails. The space itself feels refined but still welcoming, with dining areas and full-service bars spread across two levels. For travelers exploring the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, it also offers a unique option to stay overnight, with short-term rentals located just upstairs.
Just steps away, Grindstone Cowboy has quickly become one of the most talked-about additions to downtown. Founded by country artist Craig Campbell and his wife Mindy, this multi-concept space goes beyond a traditional coffee shop. Inside, visitors will find craft coffee, a full-service restaurant, live music, and even a speakeasy, all housed within a beautifully restored historic building. Plans for a rooftop terrace add even more to the experience, giving guests another way to take in the square from above. It is designed as a place to gather, whether you are stopping in for a morning coffee or settling in for an evening of music.
Together, these newer additions have helped transform downtown Shelbyville into a vibrant social hub while still preserving what makes it special. The square remains walkable and easy to explore, with each corner offering something different. Visitors can move from historic landmarks to modern dining without ever leaving the district.
Shelbyville’s “Historic Uptown” tells a story that stretches back more than two centuries, but it is not stuck in the past. Instead, it continues to evolve, giving visitors a chance to experience both the legacy of a classic American town square and the excitement of a community that is actively shaping its future.
AT 31 MAIN
SHOPPES
WARTRACE
THE BELL BUCKLE CAFE
BELL BUCKLE
BLUE BIRD ANTIQUES
BELL BUCKLE
bell Buckle & Wartrace
Beyond Shelbyville, Walking Horse Country is defined by its small towns. Bell Buckle and Wartrace are small railroad towns, each offering a memorable experience built around walkable squares, local businesses, and a strong sense of identity.
Bell Buckle is often the first stop for visitors, and it is easy to see why. With a population of around 400, the town has earned a reputation as a charming destination known for antiques, handmade crafts, and classic Southern hospitality. Its compact downtown invites visitors to slow down and browse, moving from shop to shop in search of unique finds. A meal at the Bell Buckle Café is almost a must, with its home-cooked dishes drawing visitors from far beyond the region.
What truly sets Bell Buckle apart is its event calendar. Each October, the Webb School Art and Craft Show transforms the town into a large outdoor marketplace, with more than 800 booths featuring artists, craftspeople, and live demonstrations. It is one of the premier art shows in the region and draws crowds from across the country The Bell Buckle RC ColaMoonPie Festival offers a completely different kind of experience. This long-running event celebrates a classic Southern tradition with music, parades, and plenty of lighthearted fun, including contests and games that keep the atmosphere lively and family-friendly.
Just a short drive away, Wartrace offers a quieter but equally meaningful stop. Known around the world among horse enthusiasts, Wartrace is considered the cradle of the Tennessee Walking Horse. It is the hometown of Strolling Jim, the first National Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, and that legacy continues to shape the town today.
Wartrace’s historic square reflects both its equestrian roots and its broader history Visitors can explore the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum to learn more about the breed and its impact on the region. Nearby, small businesses like The Wartrace Emporium, Rock House Deli, and Sweet Nook Coffee Shop create a welcoming atmosphere for those spending time downtown. The town is also known for its craftsmanship, along with its well-preserved architecture and Civil War history.
Together, Bell Buckle and Wartrace capture the essence of Walking Horse Country. They are places where visitors can take their time, explore at their own pace, and experience the kind of small-town charm that continues to define this part of Tennessee.
scan to get started!
