Living in Burns, Tennessee: A Hidden Gem with Southern Charm
Nestled in the heart of Dickson County, Burns, Tennessee, is a small town that offers the tranquility of rural living with the convenience of nearby urban amenities. With a population of approximately 1,573 as of the 2020 census, Burns is an ideal location for those seeking a close-knit community atmosphere.
Daily Life in Burns
Residents of Burns enjoy a peaceful lifestyle characterized by friendly neighbors and a strong sense of community. The town's small size fosters close relationships among residents, making it an excellent place for families, retirees, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Climate and Weather
Burns experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average high temperatures range from 46°F in January to 86°F in July, while average lows range from 24°F to 65°F . The area receives approximately 53 inches of precipitation annually, with rainfall fairly common year-round and occasional thunderstorms in the spring and summer months.
Parks and Recreation
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in and around Burns. The town is home to Montgomery Bell State Park, a 3,850-acre natural oasis offering camping, cabins, lodge rooms, golfing, hiking, and more . The park features three lakes, providing opportunities for swimming, paddling, and fishing .
Additionally, the town's Parks & Recreation department offers various recreational opportunities, including a gymnasium for indoor activities.
Dining and Local Attractions
Burns boasts a selection of local eateries that cater to a variety of tastes. Notable shopping and restaurants include:
Pelican Picks Antiques and Vintage: 3008 Church St, Burns, TN 37029 This shop offers treasures of many kinds, including vintage books and toys, glassware and cookware, art and pottery, and unique surprises.
Moss & Embers Gifts and Housewares: 2100 Highway 96, Burns, TN 37029 This delightful shop includes a wide variety of beautifully curated items, including home decor, jewelry, kitchen and bar tools, packaged foods, art, greeting cards, and gifts.
Twin Lakes Catfish Kitchen: Known for its boneless filet, deep-fried shrimp, oysters, scallops, and frog legs .
Jeanine's Cafe: A cozy spot offering classic American fare.
The Restaurant at Montgomery Bell: Located within Montgomery Bell State Park, this full-service, family-friendly restaurant overlooks Lake Acorn, providing a scenic dining experience.
For those interested in history, the Lonesome Historic Site preserves the oldest dwelling in South Dickson County, the Lonesome cabin, built in 1821.
Proximity to Nashville and Surrounding Areas
One of Burns' significant advantages is its proximity to Nashville. The town is approximately 30 miles west to Nashville, translating to a driving time of about 30 minutes. This close distance allows residents to enjoy the serenity of small-town life while having easy access to the amenities and opportunities of a major city.
Education and Extracurricular Activities
Burns is served by the Dickson County School District, which includes:
Stuart Burns Elementary School: Serving grades PK-5, this school has a student-teacher ratio of 16:1 and is rated 7/10 by GreatSchools.
Burns Middle School: Catering to grades 6-8, with a student-teacher ratio of 15:1.
For high school, students typically attend Dickson County High School, located in the nearby city of Dickson.
Extracurricular activities are abundant, with options such as band, choir, drama club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) available at Burns Middle School. Additionally, the Dickson County Family YMCA offers day camps and various programs to keep children engaged during school breaks.
A Glimpse into History
Originally known as Mile Post 36 due to its distance from Nashville, Burns has a rich history dating back to the Civil War era when it was inhabited by Union soldiers and railroad workers. The town's historical roots contribute to its unique character and charm.
As of late 2024 and early 2025, several new businesses have opened or are set to open in Burns, Tennessee, and within a 15-mile radius, particularly in Dickson County. Recent business licenses issued in Burns include according to Dickson County Source, include:
Hendrixson's Garage (Nov 2024): A mechanic shop located on Pine Hill Road.
Cutting Edge Land Solutions LLC (Nov 2024): Specializing in excavating and land clearing services on Sanders Mill Road.
Jensmith LLC (Dec 2024): Offering laser engraving services on Forest Court.
Maid To Shine Cleaning Service (Dec 2024): A cleaning service based on Spencer Mill Road.
Legacy Property Solutions (May 2024): Providing lawn care services, operating from Hogan Road.
Burns Backdoor Barber & Beauty (Apr 2024): A barber and beauty shop situated on Church Street.
Cajun Lake Clubhouse (May 2024): A restaurant located on Highway E.
New Developments in Dickson County (Within 15 Miles)
In the broader Dickson County area, several businesses have recently opened:
China Wok Dickson Inc (Dec 2024): A new restaurant on Highway S in Dickson.
Velvet Nails (Dec 2024): A nail salon located on Church Street Suite in Dickson.
Skeeters Country Market (Dec 2024): A market on Yellow Creek Road in Dickson.
Mile Post 42 LLC (Dec 2024): A food and drink establishment on North Main Street in Dickson.
Lucie's Laundromat LLC (Nov 2024): A laundromat on Highway North in Charlotte.
Joel's Auto Body LLC (Nov 2024): A body shop and repair service on Circle U Drive Unit A in Dickson.
Upcoming Projects and Developments
Dickson County Center for Higher Education: Groundbreaking occurred in November 2024 for this state-of-the-art facility, which will serve as the permanent Dickson campus for Nashville State and TCAT Dickson's nursing and allied health programs. (nscc.edu)
Big Lots Reopening: The Big Lots store at 220 Dickson Plaza Drive in Dickson is among the locations being reopened by Variety Wholesalers Inc., with a grand opening celebration planned for fall 2025. (https://www.wsmv.com)
These developments indicate a growing economic landscape in Burns and the surrounding areas, offering new services and opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Why Consider Moving to Burns?
Burns, Tennessee, offers a harmonious blend of rural tranquility and accessibility to urban conveniences. Its strong sense of community, quality educational institutions, recreational opportunities, and proximity to Nashville make it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Whether you're drawn to the natural beauty of Montgomery Bell State Park, the friendly neighborhood atmosphere, Burns provides a welcoming environment to call home.
Join us for an event and discover how Burns Village & Farm is redefining modern living
July 9th at 7:00 - 8:00 pm (CT)
July 19th at 12:30 - 1:30
July 20th at 2:00 - 3:30 pm