Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Chattanooga and Newport, Tennessee
Looking to embark on a road trip between Chattanooga and Newport, Tennessee? Here are the top five popular attractions to visit along the way.
The Route and Halfway Point: Loudon, TN
Loudon, located about halfway between Chattanooga and Newport, is a charming small town with plenty of history and Southern hospitality. Stop by The Village Antique and Home Decor Mall, which features over 75 vendors with a variety of vintage and antique items. Check out the nearby Sweetwater Valley Farm for some delicious cheese and fresh milk. Don't forget to take a stroll along the Loudon Greenway, a picturesque trail that winds around the town's beautiful green spaces.
1. Chattanooga National Cemetery
Founded in 1863, the Chattanooga National Cemetery serves as a final resting place for over 50,000 veterans from various wars. The cemetery's serene grounds provide a peaceful place of remembrance and reflection. Visitors can explore the many monuments and memorials scattered throughout the cemetery, as well as attend periodic events and ceremonies honoring those who served.
2. Ocoee River Whitewater Center
If you're looking for a little adventure, head to the Ocoee River Whitewater Center, which hosted the 1996 Olympic kayaking and canoeing events. Here, you can experience the thrill of the river yourself by booking a rafting trip or taking a guided zipline tour. The surrounding Cherokee National Forest also offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.
3. Lost Sea Adventure
The Lost Sea Adventure in Sweetwater takes you deep underground to explore the largest underground lake in the United States. Take a guided tour of the caverns, check out the fossil finds, and then board a glass-bottom boat for a closer look at the crystal-clear water. The Lost Sea Adventure is a unique and unforgettable experience for all ages.
4. Dollywood
One of the most popular attractions in Tennessee, Dollywood is a theme park that celebrates the culture and heritage of the Smoky Mountains. With a variety of rides, shows, and attractions, Dollywood offers something for everyone. Don't miss the park's signature wooden roller coaster, the Thunderhead, or the nightly fireworks show.
5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No trip to eastern Tennessee would be complete without a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 800 miles of trails, the park is a hiker's paradise, offering everything from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks. Take a scenic drive along the park's many roads, visit historic sites like Cades Cove and the Mingus Mill, or simply enjoy the stunning vistas and abundant wildlife.
Conclusion
For the best route on this trip, take Interstate 75 North to Exit 60 in Sweetwater. From there, take TN-68 and US-411 to get to Loudon, and then continue on US-321 to Newport. With these five must-see attractions, your road trip between Chattanooga and Newport is sure to be full of adventure and fun. Don't forget to take lots of photos and make memories that will last a lifetime!