Grab some fast food the old fashioned way at A&W
Monroe County has a variety of dining options that are great for a quick pick-up. We don't like to promote the major fast food chains, but we make an exception for A&W, given how rare they are. Some of you may not even know that they also have a fast food chain (and to answer your question, the root beer came first, then the restaurants). Madisonville features an A&W Restaurant on Highway 411, and what makes this one really special is that it a drive-in with carhops! When you visit on a hot Summer afternoon, get one of their iconic root beer floats. Yours truly also recommends the corndog nuggets and onion rings. If you want somewhere more scenic to enjoy your meal, drive down Highway 411 to Kefauver Park.
Support local farmers at the Madisonville Farmers and Makers Market
Every Thursday from June to October, Memorial Park in Downtown Madisonville hosts the Madisonville Farmers & Makers Market. During this three hour event, you'll find a variety of vendors selling the fresh produce you'd expect at a farmers market along with baked goods, crafts, and decor. They also have seasonal items depending on what is growing at that time. If you get hungry but don't feel like eating the raw vegetables, there are also vendors selling meals. You never know exactly what you'll find. If you want a good idea of who will be there each time, check their Facebook page. This is a great opportunity to support the small businesses that can be found across the county all the while enjoying the Summer weather in the afternoon.
Take an aerial tour at the Monroe County Airport
Normally, going to an airport is how you start or finish your Summer fun. Just a means of getting to another destination. This time, the airport is the destination. Monroe County Airport, a ten minute drive from Downtown Madisonville, is great for visitors with a love of aviation. If you have your own small plane, you can fly to Monroe County Airport, but for those of us who don't, you can book a sightseeing flight around the area. The airport has a crew of instructors and hosts various events each year. The local squadron of the Civil Air Patrol often meets here.
Get a relaxing farm experience at Pokedaot Hops & Garden
Located 15 minutes away from Downtown Madisonville is Pokeadot Hops and Garden where you and up to four guests can have a farm experience and stay in a cozy cabin. The 25-acre farm was founded by a disabled veteran and his wife who gave up her career in banking so she and her husband could grow vegetables and raise animals together. Guests can help around as they please and are encouraged to bring rubber boots. Kids will love being able to pet the animals. The cabin is 1200 sq ft and includes two bedrooms, a bathroom, full kitchen, and all the amenities of a modern space. Staying here is a great way to experience the work that goes into Monroe County's agriculture in the Summer without being forced to work out in the fields all day.
Sample local wine at Tsali Notch Vineyard
One great way to get out of the Summer heat is to take a trip to Tsali Notch Vineyard for a muscadine wine and juice tasting. This ticketed event is available every Wednesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 06 PM. The tasting lasts around 20 minutes and includes samples of four wines and a juice, all made from muscadines, an indigenous variety of grape. The menu of wines and juices changes based on the harvest and season. When you finish the tasting, you get to keep the glass as a souvenir. You must be 21 years old or older to sample the wines. Tickets are sold on a first come first serve basis but they do not expire and can be used at any time during operating hours. If you have the time, also check out the vineyard tour.
