17 Best & Fun Things To Do in Tellico Plains, TN
Are you planning a trip to Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and looking for fun activities to make your trip memorable? Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll be exploring the 17 best and fun things to do in Tellico Plains, TN, making your trip interesting.
Located in Monroe County, in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Tellico Plains, Tennessee, is a hidden gem that offers many outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural wonders.
This charming town is a treasure trove of experiences, ranging from the awe-inspiring vistas along the Cherohala Skyway to the heart-pounding excitement of whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. Visitors can explore several trails, the Bald River Falls, the Charles Hall Museum, and other unique attractions.
17 Best and Fun Things To Do in Tellico Plains, TN (2024)
1. Cherohala Skyway
Begin your Tellico Plains adventure with a leisurely drive along the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile scenic byway that gracefully winds through the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Opened in 1996, this scenic byway connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina, passing through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, thus the name “Chero-hala.”
This unforgettable journey offers the sparkling rush of the Tellico River. Stop at overlooks to have an expansive view of the Tennessee Valley and waves of mountain peaks. You can also hike to high-elevation mountains.
Address:Â Tellico Plains, Tennessee
2. Bald River Falls
One of the fun outdoor activities to do in Tellico Plains, TN, today is to visit Bald River Falls, a tributary of the Tellico River.
Cascading over 100 feet onto the rocks below, Bald River Falls is one of the most impressive and scenic waterfalls in East Tennessee. Although the river is short in length, it is powerful as it flows through a steep, densely wooded valley, and the area’s frequent rains constantly replenish it.
Each season brings about a change in the fall. Accessible via a short, picturesque hike, this natural wonder provides an ideal backdrop for photography and nature enthusiasts.
Address:Â River Road, Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
3. Ocoee River Whitewater Rafting
The Ocoee River is one of the most popular whitewater rafting adventures in the United States. Located in the Cherokee National Forest, the Ocoee River flows through a beautiful gorge surrounded by scenic wildlife and is within hours of many major cities.
As part of the many things to do in Tellico Plains, gear up for a thrilling whitewater rafting expedition down the Ocoee River.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned adventurer, experienced guides will ensure your safety as you navigate the exhilarating rapids of this iconic waterway.
Address: 1548 Highway 68, Ducktown, TN 37326, United States
4. Indian Boundary Recreation Area
The Indian Boundary Recreation Area is one of Tellico Plains, Tennessee’s most tranquil and impressive attractions. Spanning 96 acres, the Indian Boundary Recreation Area is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views due to its central location for hiking trails and waterfalls.
The area also features an 87-site campground with electric hookups, water, grills, a swimming beach, picnic tables, and more. It also features a 3.2-mile hiking and biking trail and a lake.
As part of the many unique things to do in Tellico Plains, TN, soak up the sun and enjoy family time in the beach area while floating around, swimming, or playing games.
5. Tellico Community Playhouse
One of the fun things to do in Tellico Plains, TN, at night is to embrace the world of performing arts by attending a captivating performance at the Tellico Community Playhouse.
The performing theater showcases various concerts, plays, dramas, musicals, and other events. This local venue offers a delightful escape into the world of theater, providing a special evening out with friends and a showcase of local talent.
To catch a performance, check the theater’s schedule and add this attraction to your Tellico Plains itinerary.
Address:Â 304 Lakeside Plaza, Loudon, TN 37774, United States
6. Charles Hall Museum
Exploring the Charles Hall Museum is one of Tellico Plains’ best things to do. The museum preserves Native American, Appalachian, and local history, emphasising the Greater Tellico Plains area.
The Charles Hall Museum houses over 10,000 historical artifacts and thousands of historical pictures and documents. Among the collections are 400 antique telephones and 17 switchboards, coins and currency, military displays including military weapons from the 1800s through WW2, relics from the iron ore industry in the early 1800s, and so much more.
Behind the museum is a garden and walking trail that winds along the edge of the fields where Indian mounds were still visible as late as 1926.
Address:Â 229 Cherohala Skyway, Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
7. Baby Falls
One of the fun things to do in Tellico Plains is to bask in the serene atmosphere of Baby Falls, one of Tennessee’s top attractions.
Located in the Unicoi Range of mountains, Baby Falls is just on the south side of the Cherohala Skyway. The fall cascades into a deep, foaming pool.
The falls area also features a few camping spots, making it an ideal destination for family picnicking.
Address:Â Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
8. Toqua Golf Course
Among the many things to do in Tellico Plains, TN, this weekend is to visit Toqua Golf Course for a round of tee time. Opened in 1987, the Toqua Golf Course challenges experienced and inexperienced golfers.
The golf course features a classic design that is considered one of the best golf tracks in Tennessee. The meticulously manicured greens and the exquisite natural setting, with several holes playing alongside Tellico Lake and others winding through hills and valleys, promise an engaging game for novices and pros.
The Toquo course also features a clubhouse with numerous dining options.
Address:Â 200 Toqua Club Way #2334, Loudon, TN 37774, United States
9. Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center
One of the best places to visit when exploring the Cherohala Skyway is the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center. The center offers information about lodging, attractions, and shopping.
At the center, you can also gather maps, brochures, and essential information about the Cherohala Skyway, the Cherokee National Forest, and the surrounding area. Friendly staff members can answer questions and provide insights into the best routes and scenic spots.
Take advantage of the gift shop, where you can get Skyway souvenirs, educational materials, and numerous tee shirts.
Address:Â 225 Cherohala Skyway, Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
10. Sequoyah Birthplace Museum
Among the many things to do in Tellico Plains for history enthusiasts is to explore the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum. Located in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, the museum showcases the history of the Cherokee people.
The museum, which is an educational resource, tells the story of the Cherokees and their impact on the country’s evolution. It also preserves artifacts to provide insight into the cultural heritage of the Cherokee people.
Address:Â 576 TN-360, Vonore, TN 37885, United States
Are you exploring other attractions near Tellico Plains? Why not check out some fun things to do in Copperhill, TN, fun things to do in Murphy, NC, and fun things to do in Cherokee, NC?
10. Fort Loudoun State Historic Park
One of the unique things to do in Tellico Plains is to take a short drive to Fort Loudon State Historic Park. Spanning 1,200 acres, Fort Loudon is one of the earliest British fortifications on the western frontier, built in 1756.
Today, the historic area provides a glimpse of life during the French and Indian War. The site features a visitor center and museum, a reconstructed Fort Loudon, a recreation park, a picnic shelter, and a pavilion.
This popular attraction is ideal for hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and other fun activities.
11. Conasauga Falls Trail
Hiking the Conasauga Falls Trail remains one of the fun things to do in Tellico Plains, TN, for outdoor enthusiasts. This 1.5-mile trail is great for families and single hikers alike and boasts a beautiful atmosphere with its waterfall and quiet creek.
Known for being moderately challenging, the trail takes about 46 minutes to complete. Besides hiking, the Conasauga Falls Trail is popular for birding, running, and wildflower peeping. The best time to visit this trail is from April through October.
Address:Â Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
12. Tellico Lake
Famous as one of the cleanest lakes in East Tennessee, Tellico Lake is 33 miles along the Little Tennessee River with 357 miles of shoreline and 15,560 acres of water surface for recreation activities.
Tellico Lake is part of the Tennessee River System and features the Smoky Mountains as its backdrop. The lake is ideal for numerous water recreation activities, including boating, swimming, paddling, boating, and fishing.
The lake is extremely busy from early May to late September, and you can engage in water skiing, tubing, paddle boarding, swimming, and just having fun.
Address: Tellico Lake, Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
13. Coker Creek Village
One of the fun things to do in Tellico Plains with family is to escape the summer heat at Coker Creek Village. This beautiful mountain town is nestled between mountains.
The village is an excellent destination for group camping, as it can take groups from 10 to 300 people. The Coker Creek Village also offers numerous activities, including mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, rafting, and panning for gold.
You can also embark on an adventure with Wildwater’s Ocoee River Basin Canopy Tours and Wildwater’s Ocoee River Rafting, just a 35-minute drive from Coker Creek.
Address: 12528 New Highway 68, Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
14. Tellico Community Farmers Market
Among the many unique things to do in Tellico Plains, TN, this weekend is to explore the Tellico Community Farmers Market. Held every Wednesday and Saturday from April to November, the market is one of the best places to get fresh local produce.
The farmers market is between the City Library and Cherohala Skyway and offers numerous freshly picked fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers. They also offer fresh eggs, baked goods and cider, milk and cheese products, and a wide array of meat and artisanal goods.
The Tellico Community Farmers Market is the ideal place to explore the vibrant local food scene, engage with friendly vendors, and savor the seasonal bounty of Tennessee.
Address:Â 1472 Fairview Road, Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
15. Tellico Plains City Library
Located in the heart of the town, the Tellico Plains City Library is a vital part of the community where knowledge seekers find solace.
The library has an extensive collection of books, newspapers, and magazines. The city library also hosts family-friendly activities, storytimes, and engaging programs that cater to various age groups, making it an enriching destination for all.
Address:Â 209 Cherohala Skyway, Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
16. Tellico River
The Tellico River is one of the major rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The river, about 53 miles in length, is a major tributary of the Little Tennessee River.
The Tellico River, renowned for its brook, brown, and rainbow trout fishing, provides an excellent opportunity for water activities such as fishing, hiking, camping, and scenic driving. The river meanders through a mountain gorge before reaching the broad plains downstream of Tellico Plains.
As part of the many fun things to do in Tellico Plains, explore this river and have an intimate view of the river and the 90-foot Bald River Falls.
Address: Tellico Plains, TN 37385, United States
17. Savannah Oaks Winery
Just a 30-minute drive from Tellico Plains, raising a glass of wine at Savannah Oaks Winery is one of the best things to do near Tellico Plains, TN.
Established in 1861, this family-owned and operated winery is one of the best places to sample various wines amidst a serene backdrop of the mountains. The winery offers the best, high-quality wines from around the state.
The winery is open for wine tastings from Friday through Sunday. Beyond the wine, you can enjoy live music and small gatherings at the winery.
Address:Â 1817 Delano Road, Delano, TN 37325, United States
Plan Your Trip to Tellico Plains, TN
Tellico Plains, Tennessee, is a remarkable destination that blends natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking relaxation, Tellico Plains has something to offer.
Plan your trip to this charming town and create unforgettable memories amidst the stunning Appalachian landscape.
