Our county has so much to offer that it can be difficult to pick what to do. If you want a definitive list of the best of the best, this bucket list is what you need. It includes a little bit of everything from shopping and dining to outdoor adventures and cultural institutions. It even includes unique places to stay. While you can do most of these during any time of the year, some of these destinations are better in one season than another. We don't recommend going out on Tellico Lake in the middle of Winter. This list is organized geographically, starting from the interstate in Sweetwater. Scroll to the bottom for a printable version of the list.
Sweetwater
Grab some snacks at Grain Bin Commodities
Grain Bin Commodities is a ten minute drive from downtown Sweetwater and sells baked goods with most of the ingredients coming from their own farm. They are open all year but the best time to visit is during the Fall when they have seasonal treats like caramel apples and pumpkin rolls. They also host Fall on the Farm, an autumnal festival featuring all the classics such as a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and hay ride. Plus, when better to get some fresh baked cookies than a chilly Autumn day? If you are willing to save those treats, go for a picnic in downtown Sweetwater at one of the parks or the Train Car.
Grain Bin Commodities Go shopping & dining in Downtown Sweetwater
Sweetwater prides itself on having “the sweetest street in Tennessee,” and you’ll quickly understand how it got its moniker as you shop the mostly women-owned businesses on Main Street including the Lily Pad Boutique, Relaxed & Refined Menswear, and Sweetwater General. Downtown also has a variety of dining options with something for everyone including Kokita Asian Cuisine, El Jacal Restaurante Mexicano, and The Lazy Beagle. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, Sweetwater Creamery has ice cream, crème brûlée, and other decadent desserts. And as you'll see in a moment, if all you want to do is stroll, then Downtown Sweetwater has something perfect for you...
Downtown Sweetwater Stroll Main Street with the Flower and Mural Walk
Downtown Sweetwater features several large murals which are great to visit year round, but when the flowers start blooming in Spring, the natural beauty of the flowers and the artistic beauty of the murals complement each other perfectly. The Duck Park has plenty of greenery and even has a mural near the start of the trail. From there, you'll want to head northwest to the giant orange and white Sweetwater mural at The Lazy Beagle at 144 Monroe Street. Look up to see the second-floor mural of a beagle. From there, you'll want to go up Main Street to the Hurrah! Vote mural by Jenny Ustick which celebrates Sweetwater's role in the history of women's suffrage. Across the street is the historic gazebo and Train Car which features a small park. Next you'll head northwest to 120 Morris Street to see the mural This Girl Can by Kim Radford. The trail is very short at less than half a mile and is mostly on flat sidewalks so this is very accessible though there is no sidewalk connecting the Duck Park and Main Street. Visitors with disabilities may want to skip the Duck Park and start the trail at 144 Monroe Street. Use the map below to navigate. Click "More Options" in the top-left corner to open the full map.
Act in your own murder-mystery dinner at Whistlestop Manor
Whistlestop Manor is a historic house in Sweetwater, five minutes away from Downtown. Instead of being a dusty old museum, this manor is a bed & breakfast that hosts lively events every week. One of their most popular are their murder mystery dinners (think Knives Out but with better Southern accents). These events last for three hours and feature a full course gourmet meal and different murder mystery scripts to pick from. Attendees can wear costumes that are also provided by the manor. The event costs $80 per person. These dinners are hosted throughout the year but Summer is one of the best times to go so you can get out of that awful heat. This is perfect for when you and your friends want to have some fun and enjoy a nice meal.
Whistlestop Manor Murder Mystery Dinner Take a boat ride underground at the Lost Sea
Sweetwater’s most famous attraction is the Lost Sea, the country’s largest underground lake, where you can take a boat ride on the crystal blue placid water. It has been a popular place to visit for over 20,000 years (though that first visitor was a prehistoric jaguar). Only accessible by guided tour, the experience includes a near-mile loop down and back that takes you past mineral formations with needlelike crystals. At the lake, you’ll board a glass-bottom boat, from which you can see the blind cave trout washed in from upriver streams. Many parts of the trail are slippery and steep, so those with mobility issues will find the tour challenging. Wear sturdy shoes and a jacket as the cave is a temperate 58°F year-round. Tickets are available to purchase on their website.
The Lost Sea
Madisonville
Try local wines at Tsali Notch Vineyard
Tsali Notch Vineyard has become an all-day destination not only for locals, but residents of Knoxville, Chattanooga, and other nearby cities. This Monroe County vineyard offers tours and tastings, and its shop sells cheeses and other accoutrements that make for the perfect afternoon picnic. Named for a Cherokee leader who hailed from the area, Tsali Notch grows six kinds of muscadine grapes used to make its red and white wines. During the harvest season of September and October, visitors can pick the muscadines themselves. Throughout the year, the winery hosts food trucks and live music, as well as rents out its various venues for private events and weddings.
Tsali Notch Vineyard See some outdoor art at the Mural Walk
You could visit a museum to see some art but Downtown Madisonville has something different. Scattered around the area are seven large murals, all forming a trail through downtown. Start up at Houston Park to see the first mural (look for the cinderblock building with a red roof at the center of the park) then head down to 186 Warren Street, just next to the police department. From there, you'll head west along Warren and Locust streets to see the next few murals, then back east to Tellico Street, ending your tour at the R. Beecher Witt Judicial Building to see the murals honoring our veterans. The trail is roughly a mile long on sidewalks with a mix of flat and hilly areas. While on the trail, you'll also want to check out the boutiques near some of the murals and see the historic courthouse and war memorials. As you start the journey, grab a coffee at 10-80 Roasters, and when you finish, have a meal at either The Patio or Donna's Old Town Cafe. There are some areas where you'll have to walk on the side of the road, so please be extremely careful. Visitors with disabilities may find sections of this trail difficult. Use the map below to navigate. Click "More Options" in the top-left corner to open the full map.
Sample a slice of tradition at Benton's Hams
If you want to try something savory, visit Benton's Smoky Mountain Country Hams & Bacon, one of the last producers of traditional country ham in America. In the words of owner Allan Benton, shops like his used to be in every town across the country but they have slowly disappeared. A visit to Benton Hams is not just a trip to a store, it is a way to see a piece of Appalachian culture. Their store is open to the public but they do not offer tours, though you can sometimes see the hams being smoked and cut. You can purchase one of their hams straight from the shop, or if you don't feel like doing that, their smoked hams are used in restaurants across the country, including here in Monroe County. For a specific recommendation, the Tellico Grains Bakery sells cheddar bacon biscuits and bacon pizza using bacon from Benton Hams.
Benton Ham Get away from civilization at The Dome
For any couples looking for a private getaway to enjoy the outdoors together, this is the place you are looking for. One of the most unique places to stay in Monroe County is The Dome. This geodesic dome, which appears like a spaceship amongst the earthly foliage, can fit up to four guests in an intimate space and is tucked away in the rolling hills between Madisonville and Tellico Plains. The abode has a living room, a full kitchen, one bedroom with two beds, and a bathroom as well as a backyard with a fire pit, hammock, and grill. The Dome is a 15 minute drive from both Tellico and Madisonville which we have guides for.
The Dome Cycle around the city on the Madisonville Loop
If you want to ride your bike where you like, you'll have to check out the Madisonville Loop. This is a trail of 35 miles of paved roads through the hills, forests, and farmland around the city. Be aware that these are not separated bike paths so be mindful of passing cars. The loop begins in Downtown Madisonville and passes through Tsali Notch Vineyard with sections close to Benton Hams and the Lost Sea. If you stick to the trail without any major stops, this should take about three hours, but with so many amazing attractions along the way, why not make a whole day of visiting these local landmarks while getting some great exercise? Check out our cycling trails guide for tips and more trails to check out.
Madisonville Loop
Vonore
See living history at Fort Loudoun Historic Park
Fort Loudoun State Historic Park features a reconstruction of the original fort built by the British in 1756 as part of their campaign to rally Cherokee support during the French and Indian War. Artifacts from the original fort are displayed in the visitor center. On select weekends, reenactors bring the fort to life with demonstrations of how the fort was operated, including how 18th century firearms were shot. The grounds feature panoramic views of the lake and forests. Fort Loudoun is open year round but is best during Spring or Fall because (with the exception of the musuem) it is all outdoors.
Fort Loudoun Learn local indigenous history at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum
This museum tells the story of Sequoyah, the creator of the Cherokee syllabary which was one of the first writing systems for an indigenous language. The newly-renovated exhibit uses a mix of original artifacts, reproductions, and video displays to show how Sequoyah was inspired to give his people a way to preserve their language and culture. The gift shop has a variety of items, perfect for history lovers, as well as Christmas ornaments. There are outdoor exhibits as well as a burial mound of 191 Cherokee people who lived in Chota and Tanasi in the 17th century and whose original graves were disturbed by the TVA when they flooded the valley. The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum is a five minute drive away from Fort Loudoun.
Sequoyah Birthplace Museum Enjoy your favorite water sports on Tellico Lake
Monroe County has two major lakes with the most accessible being Tellico Lake in Vonore. Here you can enjoy all your favorite water sports such as boating, canoeing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, wakesurfing, and wakeboarding. There are several launches and piers at various locations such as at Four Loudoun and Heritage Park. There are two marinas (Tellico Marina and Cherokee Outdoor Resort) which both have everything you need for a day on the lake. Before you take to the water, make sure you understand boat safety. A Boating Education Certificate is required for anyone born after January 1989.
Tellico Lake Have some lunch right on the waves at The Mudpuppy
Imagine it: you've had a day out on Tellico Lake, maybe you've been doing all the exciting water sports or maybe you just relaxed on the gentle waters. It is time to eat but you don't want to have to drive inland. Lucky for you, there is a restaurant floating on the lake. The Mudpuppy, which is part of the Cherokee Outdoor Resort and Marina, has an extensive menu with something for everyone such as shrimp tacos, BBQ nachos, and chicken wings. The restaurant has a mix of outdoor and covered seating (but not truly indoors so you will still feel the outdoor heat and any wind and rain). Park your boat at the marina and take a quick walk over to the restaurant.
Mudpuppy Restaurant Take the road less traveled on the Unicoi Turnpike
For our visitors who like venturing where tourists don't normally go, you'll want to check out the Unicoi Turnpike which was a major road used by the Cherokee and connected their capital Chota (near what is now Vonore) to Tellico (which was a major Cherokee town). Highway 360 follows the original path between Vonore and Tellico Plains. It is 20 miles long and should take about 30 minutes to drive. This is a narrow, curvy backroad which takes you through the rural countryside. The only gas stations and public restrooms are at the beginning and end in Tellico and Vonore. Use the map below to navigate. Click "More Options" in the top-left corner to open the full map.
Tellico Plains
See the mountains on the Cherohala Skyway
The Cherohala Skyway gives amazing views of the forest in every season, but if you can only visit once in a year, you have to experience the Skyway in the Fall. The Skyway has several overlooks where you can pull off the road, get out of your car, and view the rolling mountains and autumnal forests. The road varies from 900 to 5400 ft above sea level. A full drive from Tellico to the terminus in Robbinsville, North Carolina will take about 2 hours one way but this depends on how often you stop at the scenic viewing areas. Before you begin the journey, stop by the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center to grab a free map, chat with the friendly knowledgeable staff, and have any questions answered. The visitor center has a variety of souvenirs including seasonal decor. Make sure you have a full tank of gas because you won't see another gas station until you reach the end. There is no cell phone reception and only a few restrooms so plan accordingly. GPS does not work up in the mountains.
Cherohala Skyway Hike through the Cherokee National Forest
For all our visitors looking for outdoor adventures, the Cherokee National Forest is the place to go. It is the only National Forest in Tennessee and provides spaces for just about every outdoor activity you can imagine including fishing, hiking, biking, stargazing, birdwatching, and even gold panning! One of the major landmarks in the forest is Bald River Falls. You can enjoy the ninety-foot tall cascades from the bridge on FS Road 210 or close up on hiking trails. Another popular spot for visitors is Indian Boundary Lake. The lake and surrounding forest include campgrounds, hiking trails, a fishing pier, boat launches, and a beach. Cherokee National Forest is home to a wide variety of species including black bears, coyotes, foxes, river otters, raccoons, skunks, and white-tailed deer. You can also find several species of birds and reptiles. Please be mindful when around the animals as the forest is their home and their space must be respected. The local Forest Service office is at 250 Ranger Station Road, Tellico Plains and is open Monday to Friday from 08:00 AM to 04:30 PM.
Indian Boundary Lake Go shopping & dining in Downtown Tellico
Tellico Plains is famous for the surrounding forests and mountains but the downtown cannot be missed as it boasts several small independent shops. Tellico Goods and Gear is a must-visit if you plan on a journey into the forest while The Bookshelf is great for bookworms and people who've always wanted to visit a quaint, old fashioned bookstore. Fans of antiques will love Wren Rock Mercantile and boutique shoppers should check out The Born Again Gypsy Boutique. Dining options include Tellico Grains Bakery and Peach Street Grill. Not far from downtown is Tellico Beach Drive-In which is a very popular spot, especially during the Summer. Many of the businesses are closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Tellico Grains Bakery Learn local history and do some shopping at the Charles Hall Museum
Monroe County, and East Tennessee as a whole, has a long, complex history which often goes overlooked. A great place to learn about this local history is the Charles Hall Museum, located at the start of the Cherohala Skyway in Tellico Plains. This museum features a variety of artifacts ranging from arrowheads and firearms to antique telephones and the first television in Tellico Plains. Founded by the long-time Tellico mayor Charles Hall, the museum has two buildings, both free to enter, and many of the artifacts were collected by Charles Hall himself. While you are there, check out Timeless Treasures which is a store selling a variety of items from local vendors. A history lesson, gift shopping, and a great way to get out of the Summer heat or Winter chill all in one trip!
Charles Hall Museum Relax in the wilderness at a cabin rental
One day is not enough to truly take in all the natural beauty of Tellico Plains or to enjoy all the fun activities like hiking, fishing, and stargazing. You'd need atleast a weekend to do it all. For many, this means going camping at Indian Boundary, but what if you don't want to pitch a tent or stay in an RV? If you want to spend a weekend in nature while still having all the modern amenities, you need to rent a cabin. Lucky for you, Tellico Plains hosts a large variety of cabins; some of them are for a whole family while others are best for a couple's private retreat. Some will let you bring your pet, some are great if you are riding a motorcycle. No matter your needs, there is a cabin waiting for you. For a full list of where to rent cabins, check out the stay page of our Tellico guide and filter the list to just show cabins.
Cabin Rental