There’s only a short drive between Nashville and Manchester, but tucked between the two larger cities is a place that has all the small-town charm you could ask for. You might think, for being so close to a big city (never mind two), you won’t find the kind of friendliness you get in more remote spots. But after a short time in Christiana, Tennessee, you might just eat your words.
Christiana is a quiet, close-knit community situated in the countryside of southern Rutherford County. With a population of just over 4,700, it retains a distinctly rural vibe despite its proximity to big cities. Historically, Christiana grew around a railroad whistle stop. Legend holds that the community’s name came from twin girls, Christy and Anna, who used to wave to passing trains from the platform. It is an unincorporated community (meaning it does not have a local government) but is a growing and evolving place, with new construction mixed with farms and older homes.
Its proximity to major cities is great for accessibility. The closest major airport is Nashville International, only about a 50-minute drive away. From here, the most direct route into Christiana is by car via the Interstate 24 or U.S. 231. Visitors without a car can take a regional bus from Nashville to Murfreesboro, an artsy city, then continue the short distance by taxi. If you’re coming from Manchester, the drive takes roughly 30 minutes. There’s no direct public transport link, so renting a car or taking a bus, then a taxi, is definitely the easiest way to explore the area.
What makes Christiana so friendly?
There’s nothing like the warm, friendly vibe of a town or city to make you feel welcome and at home. And that feeling isn’t in short supply at Christiana (or in Athens, another friendly Tennessee city). According to local platform Nextdoor, residents consistently describe the area as “peaceful, quiet, rural”, but also “friendly” and “safe.” Country churches, beautiful horse farms, and wide-open fields surround the area, meaning residents don’t have to travel far to experience a remote feel…