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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Chesterfield to Bristol?
The direct drive from Chesterfield to Bristol is 617 mi (993 km), and should have a drive time of 9 hrs 7 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Chesterfield to Bristol, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Nashville, Gatlinburg, Saint Louis, Pigeon Forge, Asheville, Knoxville, Cherokee, Bowling Green, Franklin, and Paducah, as well as top places to visit like Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, or the ever-popular Downtown.
The top cities between Chesterfield and Bristol are Nashville, Gatlinburg, Saint Louis, Pigeon Forge, Asheville, Knoxville, Cherokee, Bowling Green, Franklin, and Paducah. Nashville is the most popular city on the route. It's 5 hours from Chesterfield and 4 hours from Bristol.
St. Louis is a significant metropolis in Missouri that lies on the banks of the Mississippi River. The city boasts the famous 630-foot Gateway Arch, constructed during the 1960s to commemorate Lewis and Clark's exploration and America's westward expansion. Visitors can enjoy scenic vistas of this iconic landmark while cruising on replica paddlewheelers along the riverfront. St.
57% as popular as Nashville
2 minutes off the main route, 4% of way to Bristol
Paducah, a city in Kentucky, is designated as a home rule-class area and serves as the county seat of McCracken County. Positioned at the junction where Tennessee and Ohio rivers meet, it is the most populous metropolis in Jackson Purchase region. The town lies equidistant from St. Louis, Missouri to its northwest and Nashville, Tennessee to its southeast.
3% as popular as Nashville
5 minutes off the main route, 31% of way to Bristol
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Bowling Green, situated in the southern part of Kentucky, is home to a number of attractions. The National Corvette Museum showcases a variety of these cars, ranging from classic models to prototypes. Drag racing events are held at Beech Bend Raceway located on the outskirts. Visitors can also explore state history at the Kentucky Museum which includes exhibits about the Civil War.
5% as popular as Nashville
30 minutes off the main route, 47% of way to Bristol
Nashville is the capital city of Tennessee and hosts Vanderbilt University. Famed for its country music heritage, Nashville boasts renowned venues such as the Grand Ole Opry House which houses the world-famous “Grand Ole Opry” stage and radio show. The Downtown area includes attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, honky-tonks featuring live music performances and the Johnny Cash Museum that celebrates the life of this legendary singer.
Most popular city on this route
2 minutes off the main route, 52% of way to Bristol
Franklin is a Tennessee city located south of Nashville, significant for its role in the American Civil War. Two key sites in Franklin are the Carter House and Carnton Plantation, where visitors can explore the 1864 Battle of Franklin and pay respects at McGavock Confederate Cemetery. The Lotz House Museum offers an extensive collection of 19th-century furniture. Downtown Main Street boasts Victorian buildings restored to their former glory, antique shops, and galleries.
8% as popular as Nashville
23 minutes off the main route, 52% of way to Bristol
I'll never travel to Bristol without this trip planner again
Cherokee, located in western North Carolina, is a town on the reservation of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. Visitors can experience the 18th-century Cherokee lifestyle at Oconaluftee Indian Village through live demonstrations and watch the tribal story unfold at the outdoor Mountainside Theatre during summer performances of "Unto These Hills." The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers campgrounds and Appalachian hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Gatlinburg, located in the eastern part of Tennessee, serves as an entry point to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park spanning over 520,000 acres. This mountain town provides tourists with numerous attractions that offer panoramic views of the park surroundings. Among them are a 407-ft Space Needle observation tower and a 2.1-mile Sky Lift cable car that takes visitors from Downtown to Ober Gatlinburg - a well-known amusement park and ski resort destination.
69% as popular as Nashville
36 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to Bristol
Knoxville is an eastern Tennessee city that sits on the Tennessee River. Its Market Square district boasts 19th-century structures housing various shops and eateries, while the Museum of East Tennessee History offers interactive displays featuring regional artwork, textiles, and relics from the Civil War. Moreover, James White's Fort, constructed by a Revolutionary War captain showcases a reconstructed log cabin built in 1786 - Knoxville's inaugural permanent structure.
10% as popular as Nashville
1 minute off the main route, 81% of way to Bristol
Pigeon Forge is a popular tourist destination located in eastern Tennessee, known for its mountain town vibe and numerous attractions. One of the most well-known spots is Dollywood, an Appalachian-themed amusement park created by country singer Dolly Parton, which includes thrilling rides, a water park and a museum featuring her costumes and memorabilia. Travelers can also enjoy various country music shows like Smoky Mountain Opry or dinner theaters such as Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede.
67% as popular as Nashville
21 minutes off the main route, 82% of way to Bristol
Asheville, situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, is renowned for its thriving arts scene and historic architecture. The city boasts grand landmarks like the Basilica of Saint Lawrence with its striking dome and also the 19th-century Biltmore estate, home to priceless artworks by masters such as Renoir. Asheville has a lively Downtown Art District filled with galleries and museums, while the River Arts District houses artists' studios in converted factory buildings.
22% as popular as Nashville
55 minutes off the main route, 85% of way to Bristol
Best stops along Chesterfield to Bristol drive
The top stops along the way from Chesterfield to Bristol (with short detours) are Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, and Cades Cove. Other popular stops include Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) Rafting, Grand Ole Opry, and Market Square.
Nashville's lively country music scene can be found in the bustling Downtown area, which is home to numerous honky-tonk bars along the main street, Broadway. Visitors can enjoy big-name concerts and backstage tours at the historic Ryman Auditorium, or explore artifacts from Johnny Cash's life at the nearby museum dedicated to him. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum offers hands-on exhibits and audio tours for those interested in learning more about this genre of music.
The Ryman Auditorium, known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," is a renowned live performance venue located in Nashville, Tennessee. Formerly called the Grand Ole Opry House and the Union Gospel Tabernacle, this historic 2,362-seat auditorium holds a significant place in entertainment history.
I toured the Ryman by myself today waiting for a friend to fly into town and it was a wonderful visit. The staff is really friendly and knowledgeable and it was a neat feeling to walk into a room with such history. They play an informative video to start (don't skip it) and then the rest is self guided. You can get your picture taken on the stage steps and you get a copy for free in the gift shop! I highly recommend going.
Dana Dickerson — Google review
I enjoyed the $30 tour. It includes a video that wraps around you. Displays of clothing worn by many of the greats, both old and current and framed play bills. You can walk freely throughout the auditorium which also let's you see where the techs work. A free photo is provided that is taken on the stage. The employees were lovely and happy! The gift shop is quite affordable. Definitely a worth while adventure. If you choose not to venture inside there are several things to enjoy for free outside.
Ashley — Google review
Always love the Ryman! Of all the venues in Nashville, this is my go-to place! Much more intimate setting and there's no bad seat in the house. I've been to other venues in town but this is absolutely my favorite and always will be. The sound is absolutely incredible. They don't call it the mother church for nothing! It's also amazing the variety of artists that come there. I'm so glad it's one of the buildings that have been restored and still in use! Parking is easy with a parking garage directly next door and several across the street. There are actual church pews that you sit on but you can also bring a cushion. I've never been to a bad concert there! Can't wait for my next trip to the mother church!
Barbara Sly — Google review
Really glad I stopped for the guided tour of the auditorium. There is so much history in one place it’s amazing. If you like country music then this is the place to start. It’s really cool to see the videos and the outfits that were created by and worn by many stars of the past. The dressing rooms are particularly interesting with so many pictures of the stars who have entertained there. It’s fun to have your pictures taken on stage and the gift store has many different kinds of gifts that are all related to the Ryman.
Examiner 007 — Google review
Fantastic shows both Friday and Saturday. I love the residency program it makes my drive more affordable when I can catch multiple shows! The staff as always was outstanding the lines for concessions and bathrooms moved well and we're not outlandish. My balcony seats were outstanding and the sound top notch. The best at any venue I've been in. The place was clean also. Nice that they have a band in the courtyard while waiting to enter. Bravo! My wait time to get in included me showing up an hour early to get a Hatch Print. I always meet music lovers so I don't mind.
Mark Drook — Google review
I went here for a show (The Infamous Stringdusters + Leftover Salmon) while I was in town and it was so fun! I didn't have time to do the tour beforehand, but hopefully next time!
The acoustics were unreal 😍.Although...maybe ear plugs would be a good idea. It's a perfectly intimate setting and so cool to be in the same space where so much country music history took place. I LOVED the pews - was worried we would be super cramped but we had plenty of space and it wasn't uncomfortable. Our seats were in the balcony (halfway back) and I was worried it wouldn't be as good so far back, but there really isn't a "bad seat" in the place (although I read ahead that the acoustics sitting toward the back underneath the balcony aren't quite as good).
Wonderful experience and can't wait to come back.
Lauren Hartmann — Google review
Ryman is fantastic intimate venue! Saw Van Morrison and can't think of better place. Built in 1892 (?) it has beautiful architecture inside and out. Was originally a church, great acoustics, and still has wooden benches. I lucked out and got end of row padded seat, lol. Highly recommend for any artist you want to see.
Martin Schneider — Google review
This was a very nice venue that truly gave me and my husband an intimate listening experience with the musicians on stage. We were just there to see Father John Misty and we were amazed at the acoustics, how sitting in the balcony we had a great view of the entire stage, and the workers there were all very friendly and welcoming. I liked the wooden pew style seating and while it was a tight squeeze and we were packed tightly in our row, the show quality was worth the social discomfort. I would be happy to see any musician on this stage again.
The stairs are quite narrow though and while walking up them I tripped onto my face so perhaps be warned. Still, solid 10/10 experience.
Maria — Google review
Did the self guided tour. Beautiful old church turned auditorium with tons of history. The tour features a short video explaining the history, exhibits with clothing worn by inductees, with more history, and a photo on the stage is included.
Rachel White — Google review
We completed the self guided tour on a Sunday and it was an awesome experience. Right from the amazing video introduction through to the cool displays, to the auditorium itself.
You can't help but get caught up in the emotion that the multitude of stars would have felt and still no doubt feel to this day when walking through the Ryman and taking the stage.
I would happily recommend a visit to the Ryman to anyone that has an interest in music.
Martin Morris — Google review
Loved the history. Took the self-guided tour and it was worth every penny. Really enjoyed being in the place where so many got their start. If you like history, or country music, or both, add this to your list of places to visit.
Laura Jaskot — Google review
The history in this building is really neat - but let's talk about the physical experience of attending a show here. Very often the folks who perform are doing so to a sold-out crowd. This church was built when humans occupied much less space than they do today. If you are 6 foot, it will be painful because there is no room for your knees. If you are even simply moderately sized, you will personally extend over the allotted space for your "seat". And even if *you* don't have long legs or happen to be a thin person, if you have the misfortune of being in a row with a couple other larger folks and your row is full, everyone will be squashed, because they are church pews and many sections don't have any type of seat divider. I know the pews are historic and we want to keep them historic, but the venue DESPERATELY needs to realign the spacing. Charge more per ticket if you have to, but I want to be able to take a full deep breath without every inch of my side body touching the stranger next to me. It's *genuinely* worse than any old, teeny tiny Broadway theater seat in NYC, and I have been in some bad ones. The positive: The acoustics in the venue are great, the bathrooms were clean and modern, the staff is kind. I appreciate that you can take in your beverages to the show, but I had people who spilled their open cup by kicking it on the floor and it dripped down into my space so my floor was covered. Nowhere to put your bag if the seats are all full and the floor is covered in red sticky liquid. ☠️
Kailey Parks — Google review
We visited the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN in February and it was a fantastic place! We purchased VIP tickets and our guide, Ken, was fantastic. He told us all about the history of this great place and took us backstage, in the dressing rooms and on the stage. The same stage the likes of Minnie Pearl, Charlie Pride, Bill Monroe and Loretta Lynn, to name a few, performed on. It was the fifth place of the Grand Ole Opry, from 1943 to 1974. The Ryman is a historical building and any music lover would love to see it. It was a Bucket List thing to do and it was an awesome experience.
Terry G — Google review
Really interesting history! I took the guided tour and although the price might seem high, it was well worth it. I learnt so much about the Ryman Auditorium and the whole experience was really interactive and really made the history come to life. It’s a must see if your are visiting Nashville!
Arianna Lafoley — Google review
This was such a great place. After we entered the Auditorium, we were directed upstairs to a movie theater. This was a film on the Auditorium and it's history. Amazing story. During the film, I now understood the importance of the place and how many things came and went. Have a good one.
B Joseph — Google review
We had a fantastic experience at the Ryman auditorium! I took my team to the haunted tour and we all had a blast. The tour was filled with historical facts as well as spooky stories going back to the early 1900s. We got to see dressing rooms, authentic costumes from BB King, and even under the stage. We were also very pleased that everyone in our group was provided a photo at the end of our experience for no additional charge.
Justin Langford — Google review
We went to see two shows on two different nights and both experiences were great. The Ryman was a clean and well organized venue. Entry was simple with little security. The sound was incredible. Crystal clear and at a volume that did not require ear protection. The only downside was the seating. Hard wooden pews were not very comfortable. In spite of that, I'd love to see more artists performing there.
Edward Lewis — Google review
The Ryman Auditorium is an essential stop for anyone visiting Nashville, even if you don't have tickets or there is no show that day, it's worth stopping at. I say this because it is located in the heart of downtown Nashville, surrounded by a vibrant and safe environment full of wonderful retail shopping and all kinds of dining.
I went to a concert this summer and got tickets for the front row of the balcony. They were the most amazing seats, and I got them for about $100 each! There was nobody to stand in front of me or block my view, and my buddy and I had the time of our lives!
With it's rich history, our band opened by saying that it was a dream of theirs to play at the Ryman, and then proceeded to put on the best live show I've ever seen from them (and I've seen them play live 11 times before). In summary, if there IS a show, GO! If not, stop by and take pictures of the statues outside before continuing on to the surrounding attractions like Printer's Alley (the main street for all the bars and pubs). I recommend staying in a hotel downtown. You can walk everywhere with ease. Everything is close and safe, and you won't have to worry about drinking and driving.
Elliot Schumacher — Google review
We didn’t know what to expect when we came for the tour but it was very nicely done. The short movie and effects was very well made. The exhibits were quite minimal though and it isn’t advertised well but you can take a free photograph on the stage! It will be taken by a photographer for you, printed and available to pick up in the gift store. The gift store was also reasonably priced.
Dawn Christon — Google review
The Ryman Auditorium is such an amazing venue! The history in this building is unbelievable. So much talent has graced the stage over the years. I have seen many shows over the years here. This particular concert was Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade on Halloween 2023. So much fun! The crowd was definitely into it. The sound was amazing (I could feel the bass through my feet) and the light show was spectacular! The staff were super friendly and even though the lines were pretty backed up getting in, everything flowed smoothly and we weren't in line too long. I can't wait to see more shows here in the future!
Jeremy Smith — Google review
First tour on our last full day in Nashville. Our tour guide, Drake, was very friendly and knowledgeable and provided a great experience. We got to see inside four dressing rooms(no pics allowed)since there were no performances that evening. Walked on stage and was truly in awe of the history. So glad they saved this historic building! We got a short tour of Johnny Cash’s last tour bus too which was included with our ticket purchase.
Don Cosgrove — Google review
I had a ticket to a show in the evening and decided to take the self-guided tour earlier in the day. I bought my ticket I site and not in advance. There was just a short wait for the tour to begin. thoroughly enjoyed this experience. They show you a short film to start on the history of the building. Then you take yourself throughout the building. They had some artist memorabilia showcased and you get a free picture of yourself at the end of the tour - free print and then $5 to purchase a digital download. The staff/volunteers were all friendly and knowledgeable. The Johnny Cash bus was on-site and that was accessible with your tour ticket.
The sound and energy during the show I saw that evening was incredible. I highly recommend taking the tour and seeing a live show here!! I’m sure I will be back! Also - I had purchased a seat that said obstructed view at the end of an aisle (section 3 - row M) and I can assure you my visibility was not that obstructed.
Miss Val — Google review
I went both to the tour in the morning and Vince Gill Amy Grant Christmas show that night.
The tour was great and well worth the extra time I. The movie alone 3D made me feel like I had got my money's worth. Getting a picture is fun. Great walking around seeing the memorabilia. Amazing place. The show spoke for itself!! Not a bad seat in the place. Great experience. Friendly staff. Gift shop nice too.
Joe Watts — Google review
Watching a show at the Ryman is special, there's no denying that. We went to see the Black Pumas in April as it's one of our favorite bands. Eric is an amazing entertainer! You can't beat the acoustics of the Ryman. Drinks are easy to get with two concessions, although getting to your seat can be a challenge (which can tend to be uncomfortable if you sit too long). We will be back!
Mark Harmon — Google review
Walking into the auditorium was an experience that I'll never forget. To the effect of chills and goosebumps just thinking about all the history that has been made in that one place by so many. The most humbling feeling you could ever imagine. Sitting on the old pew and just taking it all in was just amazing. I can't imagine what it must feel like to stand on that stage in that building and do what you love. Something I've always dreamed about.
Appliance Repair — Google review
We went to see Amy Grant and Vince Gill's Christmas Show. We were extremely pleased with the ease of getting in even though several bus loads of people were in line as well. It was great being in this historic building. We did have a column in our view but it did not diminish the entertainment or our evening at all. This was our first visit to the Ryman for a show. We had toured it many years ago. We drove in from the Lexington, Kentucky area and would definitely do this again. Vince Gill and Amy Grant were great!!
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum showcases the rich history of American music through its collection of artifacts and interactive displays. Situated in downtown Nashville's vibrant District, this attraction brings the city to life, especially at night. Alongside the famous honky tonk bars, visitors can explore shops, restaurants, and historic music landmarks. Just a short distance away is Centennial Park, which offers unique features such as a full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon.
This place was so cool!!! We budgeted one & a half hours based on the recommended time. I wish we would have planned on a little bit more time. It was so interesting seeing costumes & outfits country stars have worn over the past several years. Loved seeing how fashion has changed & the details in the clothing. Martina McBride section was one of my personal favorites. Definitely recommend but make sure you budget enough time before tours, if you are doing tours.
Chirelle Pearson — Google review
This was an experience that I will never forget in my entire life. I think I was most excited to go here over anywhere else in Nashville. We purchase tickets in advance and therefore were allowed to go straight in. You start on the third floor and work your way down to the first floor where the exit is. I thought that was very smart. The displays were incredible! I love older Country Music and they did not disappoint. I would love to come back here with my kids one today. I know they would love it as much as I did. The gift shop was awesome too!
Amber Wilt — Google review
If you're a music fan of any genre, the Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-see. Lots of history and stories. We also did the RCA Studio B tour. So cool to be in the studio where iconic songs were recorded, ie from Elvis, Dolly and many more. Sitting at the same piano Elvis played was very surreal. Highly recommend!!!
Josh Hightower — Google review
We took the kids through the museum on our vacation and we had a great experience. Wonderful exhibits and history. Would highly recommend this. Tickets seem to average $30;a piece at any museum so if you have to choose, this is the one!
Thomas Selgrade — Google review
Not at all a country music fan (except bluegrass) but I thought this was a great museum. I learned quite a bit, they have some absolutely amazing artifacts, especially musical instruments, great exhibits, some hands on stuff. Really, really enjoyed it and I probably will explore country music outside of bluegrass because of this visit. If you like guitars, they have a fantastic collection to drool over, especially Martin and Gibson.
Robert Marcovich — Google review
This place had some really cool things in it and so many things to look at! It had outfit of what the singers wore in their most popular songs and the records and everything! It's just an amazing place you have to visit if you're ever in Nashville!
Cierra Russell — Google review
Listen. If you're in Nashville you MUST go to the Country music hall of Fame whether or not you like Country music. It's spectacular. Blows that other museum in Cleveland away. Always a rotating exhibit when you enter. We saw one for Bill Anderson. Two levels of amazing artifacts documenting the history of Country music from the 20s/30s through today showing the rise fall and eventual rise again of the genre of music. The guitars are amazing. Outfits and stage wear even better. Several cars including Elvis's limo and the TA from Smokey and the Bandit. Make sure you pay extra and go over to RCA studio B. It takes and hour and is absolutely worth the additional cost and bus ride over. I've been here twice and would come back another 10 times if in Nashville.
Richie Pawlowski — Google review
It was alright, nothing blew me away. If I were a huge country fan, it probably would have been really cool. The whole 3rd floor is the beginnings of country.. the second floor being the more modern era. There were a lot of artists, in my opinion, that have made bigger contributions to country, yet they were not found anywhere in the museum (or it was one item). It was a lot smaller than I had expected as well. Highlight of this stop was Bajo Taco.
Brianne Soful — Google review
Nashville is all about country and blues music, and this museum is a great way to explore a lot of the history and upbringing of the country music scene.
There are 3 floors to the museum and each one is layed out well so that it is easy to navigate and plenty of room. I'm not a big country music fan, but I very much enjoyed browsing through the museum learning about the history and see many of the artifacts that made country music what it is today.
Highly recommend booking the first visit of the morning so you can get in before the museum gets crowded.
We also booked the museum tickets with the Hatch Show Print and RCA Studio B combo package. It can get a little pricey to do this depending on how many people are in your party (about $75 for the 3 together), but it was very worth it.
Neil Hodges — Google review
Visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville is a musical pilgrimage that any country music enthusiast should undertake. Nestled in the heart of Music City, this iconic museum is a sprawling treasure trove of the genre's rich history.
As you approach the building, you're struck by its sheer size. The museum is a colossal three-story structure, with a distinct design that evokes the grandeur of the country's musical heritage. The modern architecture seamlessly blends with the surrounding historic district, making it both a beacon of the future and a guardian of the past.
Once inside, the Hall of Fame doesn't disappoint. Its vast collection covers the full spectrum of country music, preserving the legacies of legendary artists from the earliest roots of the genre to contemporary superstars. Exhibits showcase costumes, instruments, and personal artifacts of icons like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Hank Williams, connecting you to the heart and soul of their music.
To ensure an optimal experience, arriving early in the day is advisable. This way, you can beat the crowds and soak in the exhibits at your own pace. It's also wise to purchase your tickets online in advance to bypass the lines that tend to form, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A trip to the Country Music Hall of Fame is not just a museum visit; it's a journey through the soul of America's music. It's a place where you can stand in awe of the legends, feel the rhythm of history, and understand why country music is such an integral part of the nation's cultural tapestry.
Scott Puccinelli — Google review
Recently updated exhibits spread out smartly to accommodate large numbers without feeling overwhelmed. Recommend the audio tour for more information that's different from what you can read on the exhibits! Fully accessible regardless of mobility. Small theatres so you can sit and rest at intervals throughout (3). Enjoy!
JL M — Google review
To be honest, I'm not much of a country music fan - but when in Nashville, right? The collection at this museum is vast, and you could easily spend hours here. Being a bit of an outsider to the genre, I would have loved a little more context for many of the displays, but maybe that's on me.
Alyssa, waywardblog — Google review
What a great place to visit. Beautiful collection of music stars of artifacts, instruments and costumes. Well worth the visit for everyone to enjoy Country music's artist and history. There are shops inside if you want to purchase items for gifts or other merchandise. Don't pass this up!
Patricia Coyle — Google review
This is a MUST DO! when your in Nashville!! We had a great time learning all about the history of country music and all about current country music!! WOW! so much cool stuff! What a fun time! We paid for the guided tour and that helped a lot and I definitely recommend it. It was just a simple device that you put in the number of the display that your looking at and it tells you all about it. They have the Elvis limousine in there and so many other cool things. Go check this place out it is so cool!
Eric Solheim — Google review
Fun experience with lots to look at. There are interactive things as well as items to view of all sizes and types. Lots of history for those interested, and easy to walk through as fast or as slowly as you'd like. Plan on at least an hour to walk around and maybe longer especially if you're a country fan. There's a nice gift shop as well as a snack stand with lots of seating indoors and out. A lovely place to spend a hot Tennessee afternoon.
Christine Dey — Google review
My family and I loved learning the history of each Hall of Fame musician and songwriters! Our kids discovered that there was proof that a lot of the music they listen to now was and is richly influenced by so many in the Country Music industry and not just something we told them to expand their music choices. There is also some fun interactive games and a recording studio that you can save and email to yourself that the whole family will have fun with.
Tonya O — Google review
This was my 2nd visit, a first with other people in the party. I enjoyed that exhibits had changed since I had originally been there, which had only been 5 months prior. Having exhibits that change on a regular basis will keep people wanting to continue to visit.
I saw things through fresh eyes, as this visit my child was with me. Country Music Hall of Fame is FULL of interactive things to do for children (and adults). The music petting zoo was a highlight!
Kristin Davis — Google review
Nice collection of all things country music. Worth a visit if you like history. Exhibits were good. Audio devices are worth it as it was crowded and allowed me to stand away from exhibits while others bunched around to read the info in the exhibit. I enjoyed the video and audio items the most. The interactive portions were a creative touch.
Jeff White — Google review
This place is absolutely amazing. If you are into country music, or just music or history in general, then do yourselves a favor and go and check out the Country music hall of fame. They have so so many incredible exhibits and musicians that are featured in this huge and expansive building. So many incredible artifacts that are on display. The sheer history in this building is absolutely fantastic.
B A — Google review
I don't know much about country music. I am here as a pure tourist. It's a great place to visit when you come to Nashville. It covers almost famous country music singers in history. Briefly introduced them and also displayed their stage dresses and instruments. There is even a recording section to let you play around. A nice place for all ages and families. I had a good time here. Recommended!!
Peng Hsu — Google review
So, i am not a giant country music fan. This is still great museum with loads of interactive displays, videos, and loads of detail in every display. If you're a country fan, it would be easy to spend 2 to 3 hours here. We spent about 1.5 hrs wandering through. I would not suggest it to younger kids unless they are music history fans.
Heads up, if you walk past the gift store, there are at least 2-3 places to have a bit to eat. The lobby restaurant was packed on our visit and a bit of a zoo.
grant I — Google review
I grew up listening to the old country music with my Pop Pop and transitioned into more recent country in my adult years. This place has it all. I loved getting to soak up the history and actually see what I'd consider lost artists in this fast past world. I'd give it 5 stars on one condition if there was NO TAYLOR SWIFT. She faked a country accent and has no place there. Completely ruined my first impression when her big, annoying name was the first thing you see whenever you get off the elevator. It's disrespectful to the other country music artists who worked hard to get to where they're at. She has a place, but not at this museum.
Kendall Mcniel — Google review
Went on Dec 22nd. Purchased tickets online and paid the extra $5 for the audio player. I'm a 52 yr old man who has listened to country music since I was a baby. This was my first time in Nashville, and I was very eager to visit this museum. The history of country music was well represented. I would have liked to have seen more of the blues influence, but I get that it's a different genre.
The displays were done very nicely, and the entire museum was impressive. If you go, get tickets online... it'll get you in much quicker. If I were to do it again, I would not rent the audio player.
BigMan Survival — Google review
“Will the Circle be Unbroken ” the best ending and beginning. Just a taste of my adventures because you have to see it,hear it,and feel it for yourself in Country Hall of Fame and Museum. We did a self guided tour. I loved the exhibits! The only thing I will say make sure you are on time for the tour because they presale tickets!
Ariel — Google review
Great place for country music history, spent 2.5 hours here. They offer an audio tour for an extra 5 or so bucks it gives extra info about each display.Its deff worth it.they have a gift shop also that was nice. The park across the street with the walk of fame is a bit dicey though. a lot of homeless panhandling going on ...id skip
Kevin Simmons — Google review
Worth visiting if you're a country music fan. I found the displays well done and not overly done. The video presentations were great - a bit long for some, but fans will appreciate it.
Greg Marchand — Google review
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222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
The Grand Ole Opry, renowned as the authentic country music hub, is a must-see for enthusiasts of this genre. Established in 1974 to serve as the permanent residence of the world's longest-running live radio broadcast, it offers visitors the opportunity to embark on either self-guided or backstage tours. These tours present an array of distinctive memorabilia and intriguing behind-the-scenes anecdotes about the stars who have graced its stage.
I loved this tour so much!!! It was really cool to see all the backstage things for the Grand Ole Opry. The dressing rooms were really interesting to look at. They seem so simple but in my head, they were a lot fancier than they actually are. Most of them don’t even have their own bathrooms. Our tour guide was great! He told us which celebrities saw which dressing rooms. We were able to go on stage as well. I really recommend this tour & hope to one day see a show there.
Chirelle Pearson — Google review
First time to the Opry, and I was not disappointed. Really no bad seat in the venue. The sound and acoustics are great. Be prepared to spend a hefty amount if you plan to drink. Domestic beers were $10.
The presentation of everything is immaculate. The venue really goes above and beyond to make this a wonderful experience. There is a 15 minute intermission to allow patrons to use restroom or get food and drinks.
Buy your tickets as early as possible. Tickets prices go up closer to showtime, even when seats are the same or further back or to the side. Fee additions are what you expect. You shouldn't need to worry about parking as there is a big open lot in front of the venue that is shared with other local shops. They will make it seem on the website that it is mandatory (or at least imperative) to buy a parking pass.
My wife is a huge country fan, as I am more of a casual listener. Regardless, I still had a blast watching live music.
Jon Fred — Google review
Wow. I had no idea How Much Fun!! Great venue. Great entertainment. The host is funny. The musicians are fantastic. Really enjoyed the music and the atmosphere is amazing. The staff are very friendly and helpful. Driving was no issue and we got back downtown with no problem. The mall next to it looks Huge. I’m sure you could spend the whole day there. Get your tickets soon. They go fast and now I see why. Everyone had a great time. Enjoy 😊
Examiner 007 — Google review
My friends and I went to a country music tour at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville for a bachelorette party. It was both thrilling and memorable. As our first time immersing ourselves in the heart of country music, the electric and heartwarming atmosphere provided an ideal setting for our brides. The rich history and undeniable charm of the Grand Ole Opry truly enhanced our celebration.
The highlight of the evening was the backstage tour, which allowed us a glimpse into the magic behind each performance. It was both exciting and deeply moving to walk the same path as legendary country music artists, creating a wonderful memory for our group.
A massive thank you goes out to the Grand Ole Opry and our tour guide for making this event so special.
Thuy-Linh Phan — Google review
The venue is nice and you can see fine from anywhere. We were in the last row and didn’t have any problems. The seats are like church pews. They were comfortable. The show itself was entertaining as well. They had a variety of acts and each performed for around 15 minutes. It was nice to have them changing frequently. That way if they have one that you don’t like much it will switch out in a few minutes.
Ryan Bibler — Google review
Wow! What a classic venue. You can feel immense talent that makes this a huge showcase for young/upcoming, current and ageless superstar performers. The Customer Service was great, even moving us and others down to closer seats. They keep things moving and in-between the MC is great. If close you have to check this out country fan or not.
Brian Fitch — Google review
What a amazing experience. We did the Circle room, Opry and post show. I could not find any reviews on the Circle room(premium lounge pass) but we enjoyed having a place to be before the show, drinks and munchies included until intermission is over. Included a photo and a guest drop in. Shout out to Maddie & Q! We would do it again. The Opry...wow! That was an awesome experience. We didn't know performers really, but do not need to. What an amazing show. The comedian was spectacular, the up and coming performers were outstanding and the Opry members were wonderful. I cannot say enough about all the staff we encountered. They made our experience so much more. Very friendly, helpful and they all loved their jobs & the Opry. We sat in section 4, row G. I would absolutely want those seats again! No watching screens. Thank you Grand Ole Opry, what a great night!
Michelle Behne — Google review
I enjoyed the show! We had upper bowl tickets and one of the hosts offered to move us to the lower bowl because there were 2 men in our seating section and we would not of all fit together...so moving to the lower area was exciting and a plus!! So thank you for that. The grand Ole Opry is so beautiful inside and a great place to see a concert!!
Amy kirila — Google review
I was in Nashville for a few days and saw the Opry Country Christmas show. I purchased a ticket the day before at the ticket office. The venue is top-notch. It was easy to find my section. My seat was on the upper level but I could still see just fine and there were plenty of screens for a more up close view. Pew seating but it’s cushioned…plan to stand up or move out of the way if you have long legs and anyone in your row needs to get out. The ticket price was reasonable considering the number of artists performing. Concession stands sold food: snacks but also packaged salads, sandwiches and pizza. Alcoholic drinks were available. I had water and pretzel bites. Restrooms were easy to find and no long lines. I parked across the street at Opry Mills for free - that’s just a short walk. The show was entertaining and had audience participation. I did the backstage tour on a previous trip and recommend that at well.
Miss Val — Google review
Great place to visit when you're in Nashville. It is a major part of the country music scene history of the town. There are always great shows, I caught one on a whim, but was able to see country music legends and members of the Country Music Hall of Fame play.
Tickets were reasonable, and I got great seats last minute. There is also a huge mall across the street with lots of shopping, a giant Dave & Buster's, a steakhouse, an aquarium restaurant, many other food options, drinks, and more. The whole Grand Ole Opry is a destination in itself, what's a big resort hotel right next to it, tons of parking, the mall, and obviously the theater.
Constantino Papadimitropoulos — Google review
We couldn't believe how close we were to the stage, but I don't think there is a bad seat in the house. They also have big screens to watch the artists up close. There was a good variety of the Old and the new music. We even got to listen to a hilarious comedian, although many of the musicians made us laugh too. Seats were comfortable, bathrooms clean and the staff were very friendly and helpful. Food and beverages were also available to take to your seats to enjoy. Don't miss it! Every show is unique.
Katrina Qualls — Google review
We enjoyed our visit, show and post tour. We saw a country classic show. They change up the shows so they have different people in different days of the week. It was a great venue with only 4,400 seats and there's not a bad seat and you could move around with ease because it wasn't overly crowded! That made it very nice!!
The show flowed well, Larry Gaitlyn did an excellent job hosting and it was a fabulous show that made you feel right at home!
The post tour, a behind the scenes look at what goes on backstage. was excellent as well! It's a solid 45 minutes of going through were the singers enter, quite a few dressing rooms and going on stage. Note, this tour was all standing.
The shop was large and had a variety of items but it was expensive.
A must see for any music fan! We definitely will take an opportunity to visit again!
DElightful Photography — Google review
At first I was a little concerned with selecting the $55 "cheap seats" but that's all that was available when we decided to go. I was relieved to see there is no bad seat in the house! It is such an intimate setting. We will definitely be back!
Wendy Sebert — Google review
I had such an amazing day at the Opry. I took the Women of Country Tour and David was a wealth of knowledge on the women who have and currently call the Opry home. The show I attended was just so great. It was awesome to be able to share my first time at the Grand Ole Opry with Kasey Tyndall as she stepped into the circle for the first time. After the show, I took a post-show backstage tour and once again my tour guide, Michael had so much to share with us. Even though I had seem some of the backstage earlier, Michael had different information to share and I got to see different things. Getting to see where they filmed HEE HAW was so awesome as I remember watching that show with my Grandma, who is the whole reason I love country music. This was such a great day and I cannot wait to be back.
Antoinette Harris — Google review
I saw Dashboard Confessional and Counting Crows Monday Aug. 14, 2023. Absolutely amazing concert in a beautiful, historic venue. It was my second at the Opry, and I will definitely be attending more concerts there. The only negative is if you are in the 30 sections of the balcony it's a very steep angle to see down to the stage. Otherwise, it's a wonderful place to see some of your favorite band.
Corey Guthrie — Google review
Psychedelic Furs and Squeeze. The college self is very happy. Great venue, full of Nashville vibes. It was odd to be there for something other than country music. Free and plentiful parking was a treat. Short walk and lots of benches and places to sit if you arrive early for a show.
Jody Todd — Google review
We were in town on a business trip and got to tour the Grand Ole Opry. Such a wonderfully unique experience! The tour guide we had was fabulous and entertaining- she made sure to cover the history of the place with a nice flair of fun.
The video they showed made me tear up, you can really tell it's an honor for someone to be invited to join as a member. We got to stand on the stage and it's unbelievable! I definitely recommend doing this tour and I can only imagine how awesome a show here is.
Daydreanne Loftis — Google review
My recent visit to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville was nothing short of a sensational experience. From the moment I stepped inside the complex, I was enthralled by its grandeur and warm Southern hospitality. The architecture, both inside and out, was a testament to the rich history of country music, and it felt like stepping into a musical shrine.
One of the first things that caught my eye was the large gift shop, filled with a wide array of country music memorabilia and souvenirs. It was a country music lover's paradise. I couldn't resist picking up some unique keepsakes to remember the night.
The Grand Ole Opry complex also offered numerous dining options and places to grab a refreshing drink, ensuring that guests could enjoy a delightful meal or quench their thirst before the show. The convenience of having all these amenities within the complex made the evening even more enjoyable.
But what truly made the night remarkable was the size of the arena. It was just the right balance, not too big, ensuring that no matter where you sat, you had an excellent view of the performers on stage. And what a show it was! The tribute night featured Garth Brooks and several other country music legends, leaving the audience in awe with their extraordinary performances.
My visit to the Grand Ole Opry was a memorable experience. The exceptional complex, a vast gift shop, various dining options, and an intimate arena made it a night to remember. If you're a country music enthusiast, this iconic venue in the heart of Nashville is an absolute must-visit. It's a place where the magic of country music truly comes alive.
Scott Puccinelli — Google review
This is a wonderful venue to see great entertainment! The seats are Pews. *If you have any back issues the seat will get uncomfortable. Intermission is a great time to move and stretch while standing up.
When purchasing Tickets for a show also purchase Parking. It makes it so easy to walk/use a walker /wheelchair under the lighted covered walkway to your vehicle and leave. Traffic moves really smoothly too.
As you can see it’s decorated beautifully for Christmas. So much to take in. The Opry Mall is close too if you want to go out to eat or shop prior to your show.
Alcoholic beverages are served at the bars set up in the foyer before a show and during intermission.
Restrooms are located on the far right inside. The Restrooms outside on the far left are available to access before entrance inside.
There is also the Axis Shop for purchasing tickets, the Opry Gift Shop along with The Roy Acuff House close by.
You will not be allowed to enter until the entrance time. If it’s cold or rainy the Gift Shop or Mall are close options to wait.
Tammy London — Google review
We have been to Nashville many times, and never attended the Grand Ole Opry. Wow! We missed so much. This time we were guests of one of the acts (Shane Smith and the Saints), and the show was amazing! Great venue! Great show!
John Richardson — Google review
Wonderful evening at the Grand Ole Opry. The show was fantastic. Larry Gatlin was a great host, very humorous. Loved him singing with his brothers. He really shared his deep feelings for how precious it is to sing at the Opry. He was so warm and welcoming to the new singer Mae Estes. Chuck Mead was great, lots of fun tunes. It was amazing to hear Leona Williams and learn about all the songs she had written. The Bellamy Brothers were fabulous, they did all there No. 1 hits, so much for to sing along with. The whole show was warm and comforting, like you were being entertained by family. It was my first Opry show, hopefully I will get to go again one day. It's a long way to go from Montreal, Canada. 🎵🎸🎶🎵🎸
Kathy A — Google review
All I can is for King & Country! Awesome experience and best concert where the sound was on point! Christmas time is always magical, but this had me in awe. There were so many sunshine moments on this trip, and I'm glad to have chosen to spend my Christmas here for 2023.
Melissa is your Lil Sarcastic Ray of Sunshine (Ramblin Rose) — Google review
We had great seats and the view was awesome!! Thought it was a bit pricey but changed my mind... Was well worth the price!! We also did the after show backstage tour!! Also worth it!! You get a photo op on stage in front of the mic so bring or wear what you want to be seen in!! Get experience!!
John D (Bubba1SC) — Google review
Was a wonderful moving experience. Great backstage tour seeing all the dreasing rooms and areas the entertainers hang out. The theatre and stage was impressive. So much history and information. Can't wait to see a live performance. I do recommend getting tickets in advance. We just showed up but had to buy tickets for a later time or next day.
Dawn Buccigrossi — Google review
It's difficult to explain how fantastic this show actually is. I'm not a massive country music fan, but, when in Nashville, we figured we should go. I'm so glad we did. It was a fascinating mix of big stars, up and comers, and forces behind the music industry that we'd never heard of, but turned out to be highlights. If you don't recognize the line up, don't let it dissuade you from going - our group thoroughly enjoyed everyone.
James McCallum — Google review
What a great night! It's not cheap, and I think the earlier you book, likely the better prices you get.
But I was surprised with how the whole thing worked. Multiple artists, 2-3 songs each, really good pace - we loved it.
The atmosphere is great, although where it loses its 5th star for me - if you are sitting in the higher rows,.it wasnt quite loud enough. The view was great but I could hear conversations around me better than the music. The other thing, the on air advertisements is kind of gross. I've never been to a show/concert where they are saying between every act, "and today's event is brought to you but (xx) because when you are in need, trust (xx), it's the #1 (xx) in America". Cheesy and weird.
Did get to see Don McLean sing American Pie, Adam Wainwright made his debut, Connie Smith, but I think our favourite unexpectedly was Riders in the Sky. Cute, witty, funny and great.
Andre Blanchet — Google review
Wow! So many great performances all on one stage in one night! For best seats, buy tickets when you are planning to visit. We bought these tickets on Saturday for the Tuesday show. We were close by off to the side. For the best view, sit in the center where the performers are most of the time. Traffic is ridiculous as there is one way in and one way out. Give yourself plenty of time!
Terri Carrico — Google review
This is our 3rd visit to the G.O. Opry. If we lived closer I'd go to a show there every month. It's a small intimate setting and the crowds are always respectful. No one is yelling, whistling, or standing up in front of you like at typical concerts. There's not a bad seat in the house. Acoustics are spectacular! Can't say enough Great things about this special Iconic experience. We love the Grand Ole Opry! It makes me want to move to Nashville!
Kay Condon — Google review
This was very awesome. We loved every minute. My teenager laughed and smiled quite a bit so it has to be great. I would highly recommend this to all. We liked the shop and the back stage tour. Which is take it or leave it but Connie was great. Wonderful stuff going on here.
Eric Fitzpatrick — Google review
We stopped by for a tour of the Grand Ole Opry and it did not disappoint. It is a beautiful facility and the history is so rich. The tour guide was so knowledgeable and they take you back stage to see the unique and stunning dressing rooms. It was a wonderful experience and we are so happy we went.
Underground cave tours are a great way to explore Bowling Green's Lost River Cave complex. The attraction offers an interesting experience on a subterranean boat ride that is appropriate for all ages. The tour guide provides information about the history of the cave and underground waterway while visiting "blue pools" near the entrance of the cave.
We really enjoyed our visit today! The boat ride was nice and the cave is beautiful. Our tour guide was super funny and made it so much more enjoyable as she educated us on the natural history of the area. I felt good spending money here, knowing that the proceeds go to and not for profit foundation set up to preserve this historical cavern. The site also ties in with Civil War history, which was an extra bonus for my boys.
Daniel Eichelberger — Google review
Pulling in the parking lot we had no idea what to expect. After entering the gift shop to buy spots on the tour, we found a wonderful place for souvenirs.
The staff was super friendly and gave us all the information we needed to start our adventure.
Walking down to the cave is a beautiful Scenic route. 🚶♀️🚶♂️🚶Once we reach the end of the path and saw the cave, we were pleasantly surprised at its splendor. 🤩
Our guide was full of energy and made us laugh many times during the boat ride.
I recommend you don’t forget to fit this itinerary on your next vacation. 😁
Troy D — Google review
A very short experience in the cave itself. The surrounding area is beautiful and well maintained. Plenty of parking and staff to assist. The gift shop is on the pricey side but has all kinds of options for everyone.
Jennifer Sanchez — Google review
If you love being surrounded by the wonders of God's creation then I highly recommend the nature trail here. With beautiful scenery and interesting facts about the Lost River along the way it is sure to please any nature lover. I have yet to take the underground boat tour but I'm sure I won't be disappointed when I finally do. The gift shop has unique and beautiful items for sale and the employees are very friendly. My grandchildren enjoyed the rock mining and the Lost River spring more than anything. I could go here every day and discover something new.
Laura LeSueur — Google review
We've been through numerous caves, and although this one does not have the massive stalactites and stalagmites (which they explain about during the tour), it was a very interesting cave and I loved hearing about all of the history surrounding the cave and the area. Our guide, Jayden, was both personable and knew what he was talking about. I wish I had known ahead of time about all of the trails in the area as well because I would have planned to have more time before or after our tour to explore the area some more. I am very glad that we decided to do this.
The walk down to the cave was intermixed with things to see and stories to hear, so it wasn't too fast for anyone in the group and our overall group ranged from somewhere 6 months to somewhere upward of 60. You walked back on your own and at your own pace for the uphill part, and it really wasn't bad. There is a gravel parking lot at the very back of the property that will knock about 10 minutes off of the return walk if you are worried about the total distance. One woman had her son go and get their car for her. Nice short distance, so very easy to drop one person at the front desk to check-in, then drive those worried about the walk to the back of the parking lot and park there.
The only warning I would have for people with balance or knee type problems is that the two steps down into the boat can be a bit hard to manage since there isn't anywhere really good to hold onto. The guide was holding the boat steady, so he wasn't able to help much. Even though I was headed to the left side of the boat to be seated, I walked in on the right side and used the rail on shore to hold onto, then moved over to my side.
Ann W — Google review
We had so much fun on our visit to Lost River Cave. It was one of the highlights of our trip to Nashville. This was our sons favorite part of vacation. It is just a short 45 minute drive from Nashville and well worth it. I purchased our tickets online and there are a few benefits of that. I was able to get a discount on the kids mining buckets which they loved! And you also receive a coupon for the gift shop. The tour guides do an amazing job and know a lot of history about the cave and area which I enjoyed. Really all the staff from the gift shop to the guides are super friendly and helpful. If you are visiting when it is cooler be sure to bring a jacket you do have to walk outside some and will want a jacket.
Just a note our kids are 9 and 2.5 and it was perfect for them. I was unsure if our daughter would enjoy it or be entertained long enough to sit still for the tour but she did fine. I highly recommend the mining bags or buckets kiddos get to pan for treasure (gemstones shark teeth and geodes) outside of the gift shop and ours loved that experienced.
Jessica Cummings — Google review
This cave was beautiful! I enjoyed learning facts about the place from our tour guide. You can also rent the area for a wedding! It was really pretty and very neat to ride the boat through the cave, my son loved it. Also I think its less than a 20 minute walk to the cave or for the start of the cave tour. They are kid/baby friendly as we took a 9 year old and a 9 month old on the tour. The gift shop had lots of cute knickknacks too! We didnt have a wait to buy the tickets but we had about a 20 minute wait from time we purchased tickets until our tour actually began, which was totally fine with us as there was plenty to see to occupy our time.
Kim Godwin — Google review
2nd time here. 1st time seeing the butterfly exhibit. I love that they did it, but dislike that people touch them too much. The boat cave tour was amazing. Hannah was a great guide (5/28/23). Loved hearing the history of this place. Please go out and support this amazing little wonder!
Eric Price — Google review
This tour was good, not great, but a nice stop if you have extra time near Mammoth Cave.
This was the only truly wet cave we ventured to. It was a nice albeit short boat ride through the cave. Our tour guide Emma-Claire was so passionate and informative. You could tell she was interested in what she was talking about, and did a great job of inserting humor in with the history.
The cave is very pretty and the gift shop has a good selection of trinkets and handmade goods from local artisans.
This wouldn’t be a tour I would repeat, and think the price doesn’t necessarily match the length and overall experience, but still glad we experienced it.
Rebecca D — Google review
Just got done with the boat tour and loved it. What a unique experience! Our group had a toddler and it was great—they had kid-sized life vests (required for those under 13). This seems pretty doable for different activity levels, with these two things in mind: 1) there is a bit of a walk to get to the start, so give yourself extra time, 2) at one point on the boat you have to duck pretty far down so as not to hit your head. Staff was really knowledgeable and friendly. Nice visitor center and bathrooms. Other activities available and spaces for picnics—could spend several hours here. This is run by a nonprofit. Would totally recommend to others and go again!
Marissa Widdison — Google review
Such a cool experience! The short walk back up the hill is worth it! Our guide was so knowledgeable and had great dad jokes! The cave is beautiful. Was hoping it was bigger but hey its a cave! Was so interesting learning all the history and with that was put into this. Definitely worth the stop! Oh and the gift shop has so many good tourist stuff!
Jessica Husted — Google review
We took the boat tour very informative guide great visuals and very educational. Also in the park is a it's a 2 mile walking trail that could that currently has many scarecrows for the Halloween season a lot of fun for the kids and adults as well. The cave entrance can be rented out for events the day we were there it was set up for a wedding with crystal chandelier
Ernest Grendell — Google review
Tour guide is very passionate and knowledgeable about the cave and knows how to deliver information to audiences with different ages. It was fun listening to all the information he gave to the tour group.
Lots of interaction between the tourist and the guide, pointing out formations of the rock, and ducking our heads down to squeeze in through the cave made up the entire experience
The whole tour was very exciting, and memorable experience. I did not know that Kentucky was full of cave until I got here and learned about it.
Highly recommend to come check this place out! Family-friendly!
I don’t know how often the tickets sell out, but you can book it online or in person!
Edward Lee — Google review
Absolutely loved it! We had Becky as our tour guide and she did a great job with commentary and history. It’s not a super long tour so you can talk smaller children on it (there are life vests and the water is only around 4 feet deep). Would definitely recommend.
Taylor Geaney — Google review
This place is really relaxing and calming. I love coming here when I am in Kentucky. They have a great gift shop and very friendly staff. The grounds are beautiful, there is hiking trails and a butterfly garden that is fun to see. It is a good place to get out in nature. I love seeing the creeks and hearing the water.
The tour is short but I enjoyed the boat ride. You don't go that deep into the cavern but I would definitely recommend coming here. It is beautiful.
Carla Stapleton — Google review
Definitely book this tour! We were searching for a cave tour that is easily accessible as we had two with us that had small mobility issues that could not do much of the hiking which would be involved with the other cave tours around. They both made it up and down to the entrance with ease. Our tour guide was fantastic, knowledgeable and made the adventure enjoyable! The boat tour itself is gorgeous.
T — Google review
Lost River Cave is phenomenal! I had my wedding here over the weekend and I got so many compliments! The staff were so helpful and professional. Their get ready building was so helpful! I got to hang out with my girls and hook my phone up for music! I strongly recommend this venue for weddings! 10/10!
We also did the tour and that was so much fun! We encouraged everyone from our guests list to go before the wedding as well!
Dawn Davis — Google review
We came for spring break, and the boat ride through a cave is one of the things our kids were the most excited about. It was their favorite cave tour. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about our experience here. The hiking trails were perfect for our youngest child’s little legs, and well maintained. The boat tour was a lot of fun, and a different experience than the other caves we toured. Something I saw earlier in the week at their gift shop was gone, and they were able to go into their storage area and get exactly what I wanted. It made my day because I came back to the gift shop a few days later specifically hoping that item was still there. Would recommend to anyone!
Stacy McAuliffe — Google review
Loved our visit! Must stop! Great cave and short boat trip. Beautiful area around it. Friendly service from all. Great tour guide! Very nice gift shop.
Sara Twogood — Google review
What a neat experience! It was quite unique.
We had an entertaining tour guide who shared a lot of stories about the cave and area.
The actual time on the boat in the cave was shorter than I was hoping, and you don’t travel very far. Other than that it was fun. I wouldn’t go a second time but I’m glad I did it once.
Jason Bushmire — Google review
Great tour to check out the caves. We purchased tickets ahead of time, and the tour was right on schedule. The time in the boat on the water was only prob about 10 min, but it was cool to be down there. If you're in the area, I would recommend adding it to your list of things to do.
Matt DeVries — Google review
The cave tour was sold out the day we visited. Decided to do the walking trails and they did not disappoint! Very scenic, loved the blue holes!
Tami Nitsche — Google review
Outstanding educational, historical, and nature filled experience. Fletcher is an excellent tour guide and very patient w kids. Get tix in advance. Come early or stay late to enjoy the nature trails. Really nice gift shop too. Nonprofit supports continued cleaning and preservation of cave. Come support this mission driven haven!
Greg L — Google review
This was a different cave experience than what we are used to since this one is in a boat. It isn't a long boat tour but it is interesting. The grounds are very nice and the staff is nice and friendly. Our tour guide was fun. They also have ziplines, a butterfly sanctuary, and nature trails. There is also a very nice gift shop. This is one tour that you probably wouldn't repeat, but it is definitely worth visiting.
Donna Smith — Google review
I’m so glad we decided to come here! Everyone in the gift shop was super friendly. Brad was our tour guide and he was very knowledgeable and he was kind to all the kids with questions on our tour.
The National Corvette Museum is a car museum located in Bowling Green, Kentucky that features over 80 Corvettes from across the lifespan of the car. The museum has interactive exhibits and allows visitors to get behind the wheel of a Corvette stimulator. It is a great place for families to visit and learn about Corvettes history.
I was honestly surprised how much fun it was. I'm not a huge fan of cars, but there were some seriously impressive cars, but also great displays and artifacts in the museum.
My husband and father-in-law absolutely loved it and they are why we went.
The tickets were not too expensive and worth what you got out of it.
I particularly enjoyed the sinkhole exhibit.
I probably could have spent longer at each exhibit, but we were a bit pressed for time. I'd say give yourself at least 2 hours to go through the whole tour.
Erin Grigson — Google review
This place is beautiful. We didn't get to see the private collection, and I wish they had some sign at the check-in desk that have the hours of when they are open. Also the cafe was closed (closes at 3p) when we went and I was looking forward to doing that too but they weren't open.
The Museum has a wonderful collection of corvettes over the years. They deliver their timeline beautifully. TCM also shows their entire sinkhole collection and history of everything. They have a special room. It's magnificent to see. You really feel the energy from that day in there. It's displeasing to say the least. But, wonderfully put together.
There are lots of photos of the different era cars on the Google page, however, I clicked the snap button on my favorites.
I did check out the brick engraving and that's $125 to do that, but gets shared after a while due to weather. However, they do have nice octagon shaped bricks inside and those are $250 for non members and $200 for members. This would make for a better option if you would like your legacy to live on for years to come.
Sharon Gadbois — Google review
The experience was a great learning experience for the history of the corvette. Well worth the stop for car enthusiasts. My kids enjoyed some of the interactive exhibits. The corvette collection is fantastic. So many I would love to own. Also the sink hole exhibit was interesting and educational. The children did the simulator and both were frustrated with the steering of it but both were glad they had done it. Probably just a one time event for me..
Shawn Collins — Google review
Great private tour. Well informed docent. Excellent exhibits put together in a highly understandable fashion. The cars on display were of high quality and possessed distinctive pedigrees. I’m so glad that we took the time to tour this facility.
Mark Naes — Google review
This place has a little something for everyone to enjoy! My husband and teenage son loved the cars from top to bottom and from the inside out! The younger kids loved designing their own car and seeing it displayed on the big screen! The girls particularly liked the different scenes of cars displayed during their various eras. The sink hole has its own special displays, which was fascinating for everyone! We were tight on time, but we’ll be back!
Augusta Nguyen — Google review
You don't have to be a Corvette nut to absolutely love this place, but it helps to love cars!! A superb museum with everything you need to see and know about Corvettes. The main lobby is also the delivery area for people to collect their new cars, so you get to see the absolute latest cars too. There's also a great exhibit about a sink hole that swallowed a load of cars from their collection... very interesting.
PM Biffa — Google review
Great experience, learning opportunity, and eloping history of one incredible design of an automobile. Gorgeous vehicles displayed elegantly with a good flow of exhibit. Shop is also very well equipped with unique gifts and brand items. Go see for yourself.
Marlena Karwowski — Google review
I grew up in a Corvette family, so this was a must to stop and see. It just happened to be on our way home from vacation. We added a night in Bowling Green to be able to see this and Mammoth Cave. The history is fantastic and the cars are oh my!! Both new and old, fantastic! If you love cars or Corvettes, then you need to stop here! I did purchase my tickets online ahead of time. They do say they are food for 1 year from the purchase date as long as it is not a combo ticket. We went on a Monday morning and it wasn't super busy yet.
Tracey — Google review
This place is awesome. What a treat to visit this museum. They have a lot to offer. A lot of beautiful,rare cars are on display for your viewing pleasure.
The sinkhole was an incredible event that took place here a few years ago. It's all fixed now and you can visit worry free.
Sean Motise — Google review
3.9.24
Our final stop before heading back to Michigan! Guess you could say we saved the best for last. The museum was super cool and has so much to see. There’s also go karting available at the tracks, but we didn’t do it since it was cold and rainy. Definitely do if you get the chance though! And the little restaurant inside is AMAZING.
Samantha Compagnari — Google review
Wow!!! This place is amazing! What a great job of preserving and presenting the history of the Corvette. The displays are immaculate. The entire museum is very well lit and all the signage is easy to read. I did not know that they had a cave collapse that wrecked eight cars. I couldn't stay as long as I wanted, but I'll be back SOON!!
Stan Arnold — Google review
Very cool and informative tour of the factory. No phones, cameras or recording devices allowed. We also toured the museum and saw the sink hole area. That hole is crazy deep.
My favorite Corvette paint job was the shark.
Went i the gift store and surprised by how reasonable the merchandise was.
Gene was great, hell, they all were great and informative.
Christa — Google review
What a great place for my corvette loving teen. The exhibits are top notch, easy to access and interesting. Easy to walk through. Wheelchair accessible. Very cool place. Get the simulator ride for 10 dollars worth it. There is a bit of a wait for that when busy waited 30 min. Eat the the Stingray Cafe. Chicken and waffles 🧇 😋 stingray burger 🍔 victory burger a1 z1 burger yum . Bourbon cake 🎂
Sharon J — Google review
Visited 7/23/23 nice museum. Cost to much money to enter. $18 adults & 14 & under is free. Many different vets to druel over the old & new. They did great with the history
Ebonyeyes — Google review
Really enjoyed our visit. We also did the plant tour, which made the trip more than worth it. The museum was very cool with lots of unique Corvettes to see. It doesn't take too long to see everything, though. The restaurant was also quite nice.
Peter Sanders — Google review
Definitely one to mark off the bucket list for people who love to travel and learn. They have made several updates since the last time I came. I loved that they added stuff for the younger kids. Definitely will be back!
N&N Homestead Channel — Google review
Good museum and not just for fans or owners. A bit pricey for what you see but it’s inline with similar museums.
Make sure to really say you want a plant tour and check your receipt. We got booked a museum tour instead. They made it right but we had to come back another day.
Jean-Francois Désilets — Google review
You need to go visit this place if you like cars.
We decided to add the guided tour to our ticket. We thought it would add more to the experience. Wow, were we correct. Our tour guide, Jackson, was amazing. Although he was young (19 to 21, we guessed), he knew so much about the history and construction of the Corvette. Jackson worked on the assembly line, as did his father and grandfather. You could tell his love of the Corvette. With 3 generations of knowledge, Jackson was able to bring in personal stories to the tour, not just dry facts. We loved every minute of our tour.
The museum is extremely interesting. They have Corvettes from 1953 to today. The displays are well thought out and the descriptions well written. It isn't just a bunch of cars lined up like a car show.
Valari Rose-Johnson — Google review
Had a great visit to the Museum. Glad to see that they were open on Sunday and went with my 2 sons. The place is very well kept and modern. They had a restaurant, library and archive (not open), gift store, stimulator and of course the main museum. We loved the Education center and all the interactive activities within. It kept my 8 and 4 year old entertained and excited. The 'shrine' to the cave-in was awesome and informative. I do wish they left a bit more of the cave-in exposed but probably couldn't for safety reasons. All this along with the awesome, historic Corvettes made it a trip to remember. We plan on returning.
Adam — Google review
Loved it here. Lots of information and history. Great exhibit including the sinkhole incident exhibit. Little section with interactive kids to draw their own corvette to get shown on big screen and other interactive displays
dsofia1023 — Google review
Really enjoyed the museum.
We arrived later in the day (after 2pm), but still managed to make it through before 5pm.
Definitely a notch off my Bucket list!
Randy St John — Google review
The family and I had a fantastic time at the National Corvette Museum! We drove the Cprvette simulator and designed our very own vettes!! So cool! The cars were amazing the there was so much his history. We will definitely be backbat at some point.
James Zorn — Google review
Great place to visit for car lovers and just a hour north of Nashville. Interesting collection and history, plus a look down at the sink hole that swallowed millions of $ in vehicles a few years ago. Even got to see some buyers take delivery of their new cars. Affordable
Laura Degelau (Laura Degelau REALTOR) — Google review
My boyfriend and I went to visit for the first time on his birthday weekend. We had a really great time. We loved the seeing the authenticity and beauty in the cars and learning about them and the people that made them. We were a little disappointed that when we went some of it was closed off because of renovations. But we still had an awesome experience and cannot wait to bring our kids!
Johnica Ester — Google review
One of my favorite places on earth! We enjoyed the factory tour beforehand which was somehow even more impressive than the museum. Give yourself a few hours to really enjoy every bit of this extensive collection.
Stones River National Battlefield is a 570-acre park and cemetery that features well-marked trails and a visitor center, which provides information about the Civil War battlefield. The visitor center was designed to teach visitors about the site's history while remaining respectful towards fallen soldiers and apolitical. The National Park Service did an excellent job of presenting the information without bias towards any side of the battle - there was no mention of which party emerged victorious.
A very nice day for a visit. The driving tour is great, but it is walkable and great for bicycles. Something for everyone of all ages. Sites are well marked and easy to find. There is a self guided audio tour which is very helpful. Also very sobering to think of the number of casualties. You can spend as little or as long as you like exploring the park. Download the National Park Service app before you go.
Sheila Hadden — Google review
Really great national historic site with a lot of intentionality put into capturing the history and events that took place. A few monuments that you were able to go see (accessible by walking) definitely add to the experience. This is a park that enables you to stop by on a day trip to Murfreesboro and is generally accessible by car. There’s pretty great biking infrastructure, and a visitor center that allows visitors to walk through a chronological record of “Hell’s Half Acre”
Zak Myers — Google review
Well designed visitor center that allows you to learn about the site and battle while also remaining respectful to the fallen soldiers and remaining apolitical. The NPS did a nice job of presenting this without a prejudice for one side being better or worse--specifically I didn't recall seeing any information on which side won the battle.
It's about 8 minutes from the interstate and you can enjoy the full visitor center experience in as little as 30 minutes.
Brad Kosar — Google review
If you are looking for a outing with the family or just want to get out and learn about the civil war and the struggles these men went through.This place is one of the largest battles and most causalities occurred in a short three day period.It’s humbling to walk amongst the soldiers graves and see the many that gave their lives during the battle.
They have a guided tour you can take or you can go in your vehicle and drive among the trail to the actual battlefield places.Such a great trip for learning and seeing what they went through.
Brad — Google review
We are always pursuing more passport stamps! My kids enjoyed the Visitor Center and the drive through the battleground and past the Stone River National Cemetery. We saw 4 wild turkeys as we drove in and they "talked back" when my girls called to them "Gobble, gobble, gobble!" Junior Ranger activity books are free for kids, and completing one will earn them a badge. We spent some time (and money) in the gift shop... a bird guide, a couple children's books, Christmas ornament, and more stickers to stamp for our forgotten at home passport! Also there was a book for Family Activities. I do recommend as a great place to visit and learn some history and about local wildlife. There is a short educational film that shows reenactments (including head wounds and dead bodies) my girls found this a bit upsetting and said, "I hate wars, they make people die!" In my opinion, that's an excellent take away! I enjoyed the quotes from Ed Abbott.
Big Boneded — Google review
Just stumbled onto this on our trip as we were making a stop in Murfeesboro and had some downtime to be able to visit this battlefield. Neat little battlefield that is very accessible to walk around, drive to and spend an easy 1-2 hours here tops.
You will not be spending hours and hours here to see everything but for a a battlefield I didn't know exist before visiting, it was worth a little detour to get out and stretch our legs.
Mr. Whiskers — Google review
This park is awesome. Unfortunately, the history behind it is not, but the presentation of the history and historical facts at the time is just great. It is also horrifying at times to realize what those soldiers went through.
I highly recommend taking in the whole park. It is truly an experience. The slaughter pen is unbelievable, especially when you realize the horrifying battle that occurred there.
The folks at the visitor center were extremely helpful and friendly.
Do not miss out on this park for sure if you are in the area.
Dan J — Google review
This is a battle field during the Civil War. This park you can drive to locations within the park to see certain important locations. You have an option to hear free audio (off your phone from a number you call) of the area you are in. If you enjoy history this can be a nice place to visit.
Giovanni Silva — Google review
There has definitely been a lot of work put into this place lately. I haven't gone here since I was a kid on a field trip. There are bike Lanes car Lanes and just beautiful surroundings. We even got to see deer!
Amanda Flowers — Google review
Stones River is nice to have in town for a casual stroll. Today was a great fall day! Those who are into history will find this place rich with information about a time before..
Preston Thompson — Google review
I appreciated that it was possible to visit this despite not having a lot of time. I was able to complete the visitor center and 5 of the outdoor sites in about 1.5 hours.
The rock formations in the Slaughter Pen were interesting.
James Milks — Google review
Tucked into a city, this is a great place to see nature. I was surrounded by deer the morning I was there. As far as following the battle, it's not the easiest place to do so. If you have knowledge of the battle then what you see and walk/drive to would make some sense. There are very few plaques and almost no monuments. The visitor center is nice and the rangers there are very knowledgeable. Having the natl. Park app helps to follow along some of the high points that are preserved within the park.
brian schroeder — Google review
We did the booklets for junior rangers- ages 13-6 and it was fun. The books will be updated to the park for better outlining they stated, as it was a bit all over the place where to find the clues. The staff were super friendly & engaging. We absorbed history & discussed many aspects of war and the struggles as well as that each longed for home. They had audio to listen to writings. The only downfall we had was the field being sprayed where the tombstones were and figuring how to maneuver out without inhaling or getting on shoes. Cross walks have buttons you press to alert passing street to different portions to the park. Very clean bathrooms and great gift shop. Highly recommend the park.
Melanie Cain — Google review
We will have to come back on a warmer day to walk the trails, but the driving tour was fun and perfectly fit the hour of free time we had while in the area. The visitors center was informative and rangers were friendly and helpful.
Kristy Schepker — Google review
Humbling to say the least, a great spot loaded with history. An interesting multi stop tour of the battlefield, a cemetery, a nice museum & gift shop.
Hockey Fan — Google review
The visitors center was great! We were greeted with a smile and given a map. We toured the small museum which was very informative and nicely laid out. The outdoor area had a a few monuments and fields but left a lot to be desired. I definitely recommend if you enjoy taking a walk and learning about history.
Opinion Oracle — Google review
It was an amazing experience walking the trails of this Battleground and learning its history via the visitor's center and the National Parks employees.
Donald Dacus — Google review
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3501 Old Nashville Hwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA
Historic site of 2 former mills is now a popular spot for swimming & hiking.
Beautiful place!
We did the overlook and the base hike.
The overlook honestly was not worth it. You could barely see the falls.
The base hike was great! I'm sure it changes with the seasons, I was in October 2022, the water was no more then knee level throughout the river. I didn't think the hike was as difficult as others had described, besides crossing the river twice, and watching out for the slippery rocks, it was pretty easy getting across the huge boulders. The waterfalls were very nice and the fall colors were coming out too, overall very nice fun adventurous hike.
noa kahana — Google review
This place is really beautiful. Due to recent rains the water was high. That and the temperature stopped us from hiking the gorge, but there were people hiking it. You could tell the water was cold. We hiked some of the outer trails, but a recent prescribed burn left most of the scenery charred. It was a bit windy at times and we ended up covered in soot. It was decent exercise for the day. 3/5/22
T Sol — Google review
What an amazing place! It was a challenging trail but so worth it! We experienced this with 3 adults (1 over 65) and 2 kids (10 and 6). Overall everyone enjoyed our time at the park. I would recommend the park have places along the trail with garbage bins but even without that... 5 stars!!!
Claudia David — Google review
We had been planning this hiking for a long time, so we arrived around 9:30 AM; for the first time, we did the tour, including the waterfall overlook, and then we took the Blackburn fork river trail, you can see map 1; the route was 2 miles, and we covered it in 1 hour 2 minutes to Cummins falls; I recommend patience and enjoy nature there is no rush, and the was stony path; There is a part of the trial where you have to cross the river, it is super slippery there.
After swimming and submerging, and swimming in cold waters, the route was lighter see map 2; but you have to take your time going up to the parking area; it takes us 34 minutes in 1.1 miles.
Alvaro Zea — Google review
CAREFUL! By far one of my most memorable hikes yet. You can access the overlook easily, but the hike becomes extremely strenuous once you travel to the base. You must have a gorge permit which you can purchase online and screenshot, but make sure to wear some water shoes with good grip bec you WILL have to enter some water along your journey. I'd recommend a backpack or fany pack to keep your hands free, but the views were definitely worth it.
Unjala — Google review
Beautiful area, go early for less people. I saw the falls from a super easy walk. I did not want to hike the gorge in March if it required getting wet. I didn’t see any people on the other trails I took. Not sure why but all restrooms were locked up. There is plenty of parking, dogs welcome on a leash. The park staff were friendly.
Beth Rekoske — Google review
Must get the permit to hike the gorge. It took a total of 1.5 hours from the parking lot to the base of the Falls. We crossed the river at the little waterfall on the right first. The water was about upper thigh high (I'm 5'2") - the 2nd crossing was a little slippery, the water was just below knee high - we followed the rock bed through back to the left side. The walk down to the river gets steep the closer you get. The hardest part of the hike is the walk back up from the river to the parking lot. The level was a 3 the day we hiked 5/8/22. The day before 5/7/22 it was a 4 - gorge closed. Go as early as you can because this is an out-and-back hike, it gets busy and some of the trails are very skinny.
Alieda Short — Google review
This hike is amazing. You NEED water shoes, I was most comfortable in shorts and bikini bottoms as pants will get wet. Need to get a permit beforehand online. I also had a backpack and put my phone and car keys in a ziplock bag and boy did that save my life with the deep water, highly recommend if you don’t have a waterproof case. The water was waist deep in spots when I went since it rained all week, so definitely check the weather and know what to expect as well attire wise. It was pretty strenuous with a dog, but so much fun. I got there at 8am when the park opened so I could get pictures of the falls without people standing all over the falls. It was so peaceful going early. It’s not marked, but when you get down to the river, you turn left and hike upstream. You basically hike until the path runs out then cross the river and hike the path on that side. I crossed 4 times total the whole trip. I ran into 3 other hikers who were really cool and fun so we all walked together halfway to the falls. I can see why they say it’s hard for young children, I suppose if they are carried in a pack or you pick them up for certain boulders they could do it. But it’s tough! I was picking up my 50 pound pit-bull sometimes! It’s definitely worth the pain though 10/10 yes do it if you’re in the area.
Alexis — Google review
Fantastic swimming hole. Didn't seem overcrowded and rangers on duty to keep people safe. Dog friendly too! Small fee to enter the gorge but totally worth it. The hike to the falls is not super hard but there are some slippery/rocky parts. Bring decent shoes and have a spare dry pair waiting in the car and you will be fine.
Gary Roberts — Google review
Wear appropriate hiking/water shoes! Geeze people are down there in flip flops! Lots of large boulders, slippery algae rocks when you have to cross through water, etc. Bring a backpack with lots of snacks and waters, and pack out your trash. This hike is such an amazing experience and well worth it when you arrive at the waterfall. Make sure to get your gorge access pass online to make things simple. People were jumping off the waterfalls, but it was only about 4 feet deep and all three people hurt their feet. Also, the rocks on the upper ledge are super slippery, one lady and child fell and slipped off into the pool below, and another man slipped and fell on the boulders trying to leave the falls area. My own daughter fell and took a chunk out of her knee. Also, check the weather and go when there's no rain a few days prior to help make sure the water is ankle deep and not thigh deep.
Make sure you stop to see the fossils along the rocks, and enjoy the brisk water. We brought our own life jackets. Enjoy it!
me ow — Google review
Amazing place! We were lucky to have a beautiful 70° day in November. The water was low and had not rained recently. Definitely impossible to keep your feet dry, bring old shoes or sturdy sandals not flip-flops! Worth the rugged hike over large rocks, not for the casual hiker. The return hike back was just as rugged and then it's back UP the steep hill to your car! Walking sticks/poles would be a good idea.
S K — Google review
Please take your water shoes to enjoy the hike.
You will have to cross the river twice when headed towards the falls and twice again while returning.
It can get strenuous if you are trying to avoid walking in the water and stick to the land.
Pets had a great time.
It's take about 3-4 hours for the entire trip.
Most scenic and beautiful views at the falls.
Deepti Kalkur — Google review
Checking in and getting a permit to enter the water at the falls is worth it. The hike to the gorge itself is beautiful than when you actually reach it you're blown away. Wear sturdy shoes you don't mind getting wet, wear or pack a swimsuit. And throw a towel in a backpack. Don't bring anything you can't afford to get potentially wet. This is not an average hike. Technical terrain with rocks and small boulders. The water is cold but very refreshing on a hot day! Highly recommended this experience!
Clayton Woodward — Google review
Amazing falls and the park has well maintained trails. Rocks are slippery of course but the crossings weren't too deep. Don't forget to plan ahead with a permit and for rain. It will close for any rain forecast due to risk of flash floods.
Madeline Hattman — Google review
This was so beautiful!! I do think the park should warn you more about how tough it can be to actually get to the falls and have signs reassuring you of which way to go to get to the falls. You must, must, must have water shoes or sneakers on that you don’t mind getting wet and you must have good tread on your shoes. Once you get to the actual falls you realize it was worth all that trekking to get to them!!!
R S — Google review
This is one of the top favorite places to visit when we have friends and family in the area. We live about 2 hrs away from Cummins Falls and love to make a day trip out it! We make it a point to show off this Tennessee beauty every chance we can!!
The hike can be a bit challenging for those some, but it is definitely doable if you're determined. Love that they offer life jackets and rangers are on stand-by.
Asury Ariza — Google review
Such a beautiful waterfall!
I recommend appropriate footwear (they will get we). There’s lots of rocks to maneuver around but a great activity overall. If it was summer I would definitely jump in the water.
Any Orellana — Google review
The gorge and falls exceeded our expectations! Plan on getting wet feet at least. Use the 3 points of contact rule when scrambling over wet river boulders. (Or you might eat sh.t). Make sure to pack in and pack out. The trash left by lesser humans is a real bummer. Matter of fact, next I my partner and I visit we’re gonna being an extra trash back and pack to clean up what trash we find. I think the weekends are gonna be very busy especially through the summer. Try to get there early or on a weekday. Beautiful spot. $6 a person bc there is a limited number of visitors per day fyi.
Make sure to use the restroom bf going down to the falls. Nowhere to even try to pee in the gorge. There’s nowhere to hide. Lol
Make sure to visit Rita at the country store at the entrance to the park. Great ice cream and wonderful service.
andykalber — Google review
It's beautiful there, but the walking path down to the creek before heading to the falls is a fantastic workout going back up🥵. Do that 3 or 4 times a day and you'll be skinny in no time😅😅. I went in the beginning of December so the water was very low. You could see the bedrock and walk on it. I noticed kinda a lot of trash on the sides of the walking paths and near wear the water meets the banks. The park needs to get in there and clean that up a little. Saw some Hawks and deer on my walk. Not one chipmunk or squirrel, which is weird🤔.
Joshua Keene — Google review
Loved this park 👍🏻 well maintained. Nice campground across the road. Great hiking trails.
Mark Ultz — Google review
Great river hike up a gorge to a stunning waterfall that is tired and has a large pool of water at the base. Many great rocks to scramble over. Water proof boots are useful when crossing the stream a couple times.
Kevin Conley — Google review
Really great place with nice staff. They were showing us a snake that looked awesome. They also did a great job at letting us know about the dangers of the gorge.
Ben Spader — Google review
It's absolutely amazing. Beautiful trails. Peaceful place. Swimming hole at the waterfall. Great park Rangers. Definitely going back.
This little gem is tucked in the beautiful landscape of East-Mid Tennessee. It’s between Knoxville and Nashville. The charming & rustic playhouse doesn’t do justice to the quality of the actors and stellar performances. We just saw “Murder on the Orient Express” and it exceeded expectations. Not only was the acting superb, the set designs and changes of scenery were impressive. All of the volunteers and staff there were so nice, welcoming and kind. The prices are very reasonable, with an average ticket price at $35.
(And while the bathrooms are a bit dated, they are very clean and have a second ladies room inside the theater.) While waiting for the show to begin, walk around the side and relax in the darling gazebo. We grabbed the schedule for year and plan to return. Plus there are free outdoor concerts in the summer!
KLK 90 — Google review
This playhouse has been around for 57 years and is a regional favorite. They toughed out covid and are as successful as ever. On our visit, they featured Margaritaville. We got an opportunity to have our pictures taken with the cast. Pictures could not be taken of the play, but could of the facility.
This year, we attended the opening of All Shookup... A Musical Comedy. It was loosely based on Elvis featuring his hits. It was the funniest play I've seen in a while. It was well choreographed and performed. The Playhouse does a fantastic job with its performances. It continues to win grants and special funding and accolades from multiple sources. It is well supported by local business and arts enthusiasts. I recommend Cumberland County Playhouse for Arts first-timers and veterans.
Larry Henry — Google review
It's been years since I've been here but it is one of the best childhood memories that I have. Most may not remember Marion Sullivan's niece who used to follow her wherever she went but my favorite memories of hanging out with her was during rehearsals.
I miss everyone one I met during rehearsals and that one acting camp I did that one summer!!! Everyone was always so happy and full of joy even when multiple runs had to be done of the same set. Hopefully soon I'll return until then I hope that you all have an amazing year!!!
Katerina jin — Google review
We were looking forward to a family friendly comedy. Instead we heard a mom telling her daughter to live with several men to try them out. What awful advice for our young people.
Several incidents of drunkenness. It could have been a really cute and funny play if the subject matter had been given a little more thought
Anne Kerley — Google review
My husband Ray and I attended a performance of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory this afternoon at the playhouse and the show was phenomenal! It was obvious that the cast was well versed on the script and had put forth great effort and many hours of rehearsal to perform a play that was attended by a sold out crowd! We have attended plays in the past and will continue to attend well into the future. Thank you, Cumberland County Playhouse for having us today!
Peggy Jones — Google review
Absolutely Fantastic! Eagle Mania was off the charts best show!
Irishman's Food Adventures East Tennessee — Google review
My daughter had a school field trip to see Junie b Jones batman smells and it was wonderful! The cast was amazing! The staff was extremely organized and helpful. 10/10 would definitely recommend catching a play if you haven't already.
Rachel Miller — Google review
Saw an amazing show in Scrooge! The playhouse is set in the hills of Middle Tennessee and you might think that they couldn't get good talent in there but they are fantastic. Jason Ross played Scrooge and was a joy to watch! Seating is a little tight as it is an older style theater. However, if you've never been, you need to check out the Cumberland County Playhouse!
Steve Engle — Google review
Went as a family and joined my Granddaughters girl scout troop ..The Best Christmas Pagent Ever was the Best Christmas Pagent Ever..The children in the play were Exceptional;the whole cast was wonderful. It is well worth seeing..There is no way someone could not like it. It was heart warming and touching, it brought out the true meaning of Christmas. Many Thanks to the whole crew for putting their hearts into the Play..lol even BOB ;)
Debbie Matthews — Google review
My husband and I saw "White Christmas" today. It was absolutely WONDERFUL! I LOVED this performance! The actors were SO TALENTED and energetic! When the old man Hank found out about the surprise, his words made me cry. If this play comes back next Christmas, I will be there to see it!🥰👍
Sulynne Denton — Google review
Went to Cumberland County Playhouse and seen Little Shop of Horrors. I had a blast! Cast was great, and you could tell all the hard work they put into it. I would highly recommend checking this play out before it ends.
Brandon Stafford — Google review
My wife and I bring 7-10 kids with us each time we go. Normally a group of 10-16 of us. We have seen elf, the best Christmas pageant ever, young frankenstine, little shop of horrors, junie b jones, Charlie and the chocolate factory. They do a great job and always impress for a regional play house we love going and supporting them. Looking forward to our trips next year as soon as they post new line up.
Tim Johnson — Google review
Cheap concessions (popcorn & drink for $5!), comfy chairs, plenty of ushers to lead you right to your seat. Love the place!!! Cannot wait to visit more often next year :)
Liza Grace — Google review
For a small company they put on professional shows. I have seen several shows here and I am never disappointed. I love the Cumberland County Playhouse!!!
Kim Bracken — Google review
Just got back from seeing the production of Charlie and the Chocolate factory. I’m so impressed with this show, especially Jason as Willy Wonka. His singing of Pure Imagination in the factory seen, took me back to my childhood, thinking of Gene Wilder performing. The whole troupe does a wonderful job, I highly recommend everyone see this production, you will not be disappointed.
High Country Adventures is a full-service tour company that offers a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and rock-climbing. Visitors have praised the welcoming and friendly staff who create a light-hearted and upbeat atmosphere. The whitewater rafting experience is highly recommended, with expert guides providing flawless directions for maximum adventure. Guests appreciate the excitement and safety provided by experienced guides, making it an incredible adventure every time.
We had an absolute blast. It was my husband's first time going, and now he can't wait to go back. The High Country team was great. Our team leader Hannah was absolutely great. She did a wonderful job, and made sure everyone on the raft was enjoying themselves and tried to Kerri everyone comfortable.
(The river was freezing, but it was still an amazing trip!)
Shannon Whitaker — Google review
My experience was amazing. This was my 1st time ever rafting. The staff was friendly and informative. They show us our safety guideline prior to our ride up to the rafts. Our guide James was very great. He was knowledgeable about was needed to keep us in the boat. Also you get great photos of our experience.
Melissa Harvey — Google review
This is the best white water rafting tour around!! We have now gone a few times and every time has been an incredible adventure story lol. Shelley is the best guide ever hands down! But all of the guides there are amazing an experienced. You feel excited and safe and having fun all at the same time. They start out by giving you an intro class and teach you how to do the paddles etc. Then you board the bus and ride down to the entrance at the river. The lunch they serve is pretty good too and they even offer a veggie option. There is also a really fun part before lunch where you swim and float down the river. The water gets colder as the season ends, we went the second time on last day of the season. But what an incredible ride.The first time we conquered the Godzilla rapid was unreal and the second time too. If you stay on the raft or if you flip you will be well prepared and it will be an adventure of a lifetime. We cannot wait to go back next year! They also take pictures the entire time so you have the option to buy one or all of them at the end. Team Kenny!
Heather Tazza — Google review
Candace was a great guide with lots of experience on the river. She took us through the rapids making my boat of novices feel like pros. High Country was great to deal with on the phone (called them instead of booking through Groupon) for my party of 9.
Paul — Google review
Me and my group thoroughly enjoyed our time. We went after 3pm which seems is the best time of day for the rapids. Our guide was Dean and he was spectacular. He's a lead guide and knows all the great rapids and key spots in the river. He also know many tricks with the raft that made the experience that much better. He also had great conversation and kept the first timers calm yet brought them out their shells. I highly recommend and ask for Dean!
R Alvarez — Google review
Went here for one of my good friends Birthday and we had an amazing time. I had never been water rafting before this time. The event was crazy. The water was exactly what we needed it to be. I plan on going back for my birthday!
POP Studios — Google review
This was my first time whitewater rafting, and I can 100% say that I loved it!
The staff there were super welcoming and friendly, and they all had a light-hearted, upbeat attitude, and definitely made the whole experience that much better!
After a scenic drive to the dam where the rafting starts, we met our guide and learned our commands, and this began our trip down the river.
I won't spoil the trip, because I definitely think you should do it yourself, but just know that it is definitely worth it.
Also, quick shout out to some of our guides, TC Lee, Jack, and Hannah!
Ethan Poole — Google review
Family adventure day was a success! Everyone had a fun day and enjoyed rafting on the river. Our guide Howdy was awesome. Definitely will recommend this place to friends and we will be back. So much fun!
Sarah Knight — Google review
I have not had so much fun in forever! This weekend was my first experience in white water rafting and we did the full run - Upper and middle. We had ‘Gale Force’ as our guide and things couldn’t have been more perfect. We also stayed in the cabins - if you’ve not done this you definitely should. Lots of room, clean, very convenient, and the views are amazing. Best part? No TV. 🤪. Thank you for an absolutely amazing adventure. I could not think of a better way to spend my birthday!
Dee Kuma — Google review
This was the best whitewater rafting trip I have ever experienced. Our guide was Nick (Harp) and he was an expert with us. He gave flawless directions & delivered 100% when we asked for max adventure! When we flipped in a rapids, Nick successfully managed to rally everyone back into the boat before maneuvering us out. I am used to having boring & uneventful trips down the river but WOW if I could have detailed everything I wanted to happen on a trip, it would be this one. Thank you so much Harp ! You’ve redeemed whitewater for me - & We absolutely loved you!
Devin Snyder — Google review
I had the most incredible time white water rafting. We had a big group & some were rafting for the first time (naturally apprehensive). TC Lee was our instructor & he did an amazing job from start to finish. He was funny, engaging, & super safety conscious while giving us a ton of thrills! Im looking forward to next year!!!
LMik — Google review
We took a family of five and had a fantastic experience on the middle part of the river. Sydney was our guide and we could not have asked for a better person to take us down the River. She was kind, respectful, and extremely knowledgeable. I trusted her to keep our family safe, but also to give us a great time together.
Mundok Fam — Google review
This is my first white water rafting trip, plus I can't swim. I have a tremendous amazing experience wanting to do it again. Our raft leader is Shelly. He is awesome, very experienced, and so is all his raft mates. My friends and I we have the 5 hours trip it included lunch regular burger or veg burger. I wish I had a go pro camera. Ocoee River scenery is amazing.
Jojo Wan — Google review
This was my first time white water rafting and it was so much fun. Our guide T.C. Lee was very nice and treated us with care. He was very knowledgeable about the River and the many different names of the tides and rocks. I would definitely do this again
Sylvia Omo-Abu — Google review
Really enjoyed today's trip with friends and family. Our guide Justin was very fun and knowledgeable about the rapids and we had a good run down middle Ocoee. I have done this section of the river many times and always enjoy bringing new people with me.
anita ling — Google review
This is our 4th time with High Country. The place is top-notch. The guides are always excellent. White-water fun at its fullest. We did the middle Ocoee class IV. Our two daughters ages 12 and 14 went down this river for the first time, Mr. Pink made sure to keep us safe and kept the fun rolling. We will be back agian! Our daughters haven't stopped talking about how much fun they had. They are ready for some Class Five with Pink!
This This for outdoor adventure rafting staff: Daniel Christopher, not Daniel tardy, is the greatest guide yall have! It was amazing! He was born to do that job! Great skills. Great sense of humor and all about it out there on that river and he makes sure all is safe while giving us an amazing time. Because of him I will be coming back and bringing family and friends with me. Keep that guy!
Anthony Hobbs — Google review
We love Outdoor Adventure Rafting!! We have been coming here every year since we first started whitewater rafting. They have the absolute best guides and staff! We always have tons of fun and feel completely safe because of how womdeful the guides are. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
Also, they are all hilarious and will have you laughing the entire time!
Our favorite guides are Hayden and Cleveland. They are so fun!
Bethany Bailey — Google review
Rafted on 7-10-23 with my family. We have done rafting before in Colorado and have always enjoyed it, but this was the best time ever. The river is great because of constant action, and our guide Jon was phenomenal. We took the more adventurous line on a number of the rapids and then would go back and surf some of them. He was constant energy. We got to the last two rapids and he asked if we wanted to take the road less traveled, noting that you could get tossed from the raft. We chose that and all five of us went for a swim. It was awesome. Highly recommend. If you can get Jon, you will have the best time.
Russ D — Google review
Highly recommend for rustic camping, whitewater rafting, and tubing trips.
It’s a quiet place to camp which I love. Sits right on the lower Ocoee and has great tubing trips for people with young children or who want a relaxing day. They also offer Middle and Full river trips if whitewater rafting is your style. They have trips running every day the river is on for tubing and whitewater rafting.
They have a large campground great for camping off grid, tents, or car camping. Lots of hot showers, and ample restroom facilities. Nice store for tshirts, memorabilia, and snacks.
If you prefer a cabin, they have plenty of those, and specialize in large groups.
Family friendly environment. Outfitter was taken under new ownership a little over a year ago (female owned 💕) by a prior employee. The improvements to the facilities and equipment in a year are commendable and I highly encourage visiting this outfitter.
If you go rafting request Dirty Mike 🥰
Carrie Soulliere — Google review
David was our guide yesterday & he made the experience sooo fun! From the time we stepped foot on the property til the end of the adventure. He brings good energy & made sure we received the full experience.. This was my first time white water rafting & I can’t stop talking about the experience. Thank you so much David ! You are awesome ⭐️!
Evony Smith — Google review
Highly recommend this outfitter! I'm sure that all of the guides are great, but our guide Brett is amazing! He really knows his stuff! Highly recommend asking for Brett when you go ... you'll be doing some fun tricks in the rapids that you may not necessarily get to do with other guides. You'll get to practice "surfing" on the downstream of some rapids, "bull ride", spins, etc. Brett is very personable and hilarious..... he really works hard to see that his guests have fun. Brett and this outfitter are very safe ... thorough safety briefings and instructions, and safe equipment in excellent condition.
Alfred — Google review
We had such a great time with Outdoor Adventure Rafting! Definitely recommend them. Jared was our guide, and he was very knowledgeable of every rapid, kept it a lot of fun but also very safe the whole way. Jane at OAR was super helpful every time I called with any questions about how to prepare or what to do locally after we finished. Hope you go to OAR for your Ocoee trip as well
David Reeves — Google review
Fantastic experience! We camped out and then did the middle river section the next day. Great price and a great company. Our guide, Tito, knew the River super well and was able to provide us a unique and thrilling experience while keeping us safe along the way. This was my second time using OAR- they are the best!
Jack Henry — Google review
I camped at OAR for 7 nights over a two week period. Their accommodations are fantastic. A quick walk to the bathroom & showers make camping a joy. They have several cabins, but I was camping. I was impressed with their Guide's knowledge and rafting skills. As a first time White water rafter, I was at ease with their captains at the helm. I did more than one trip. OAR has access to a great location just below the dam, for tubing. On my relaxing day, I tubed down with a group. I saw several groups, churches, schools and familys tubeing while I was there, everyone having a blast. I also used my paddleboard to launch at that same spot to go down river. It was fun , not too rough, and beautiful. This will always be my first stop as I leave Florida for fun
John-Lester Gibson — Google review
It was incredible!!! The experience was safe and fun and very beautiful. Our guide - Jon Hall - was amazing. Super nice funny and he did lots of cool tricks. I definitely recommend requesting him if you can. I will definitely be coming back.
Evan Nader — Google review
This was my first time rafting and it was fantastic! We had Tyler as our guide and he was phenomenal! Funny, entertaining, knew what he was doing, and overall a great guide! We did the all day and I totally recommend it! Lunch was great, everyone was super nice and helpful! Definitely recommend and hopefully will be back in the future!
Ryan Beatty — Google review
My nine-year-old daughter, and I had scheduled to float down the river in a tube, however, the weather didn’t cooperate. Even though the temperature dropped and it was raining, Tyler made our experience very enjoyable. We were able to float down the river in a raft instead of a tube, and they provided dry vests to help keep us warm and dry. Tyler was super positive the entire time and even helped keep my daughter entertained with her videography skills. Tyler has a lot of knowledge and experience on the river and I would highly recommend him for as a guide for any whitewater rafting or float down the river.
Allison Falden — Google review
Memorable day on the Ocoee River with OAR. We had a great time and got to experience some giant rapids. Our guide knew the river well and kept us safe, while also picking the right lines in the water to catch some intense rapids. My favorite rafting trip so far.
Kaymo — Google review
We had a wonderful time tubing! I'm horrible names, but I believe one of the kids said our guide's name was Sarah. Anyhow, she was awesome! She had a great sense of humor and they all did a great job of making sure we avoided obstacles along the river. This was only our second time tubing, and we had a few children(ages 10-15) with our group this time, but we were able to relax more knowing that the guides were there to keep everyone safe.
Whitley Love — Google review
My wife and I went on the 5 mile trip with my brother and sister and spouses. We had an absolute blast...we will be back! The guides were all fun and informative. We had Sam as our guide, he was great. We all felt safe with him guiding us. Next time we're probably going to do the 10 mile paddle, thank you OAR and staff for a great day on the river!
Nick Fischer — Google review
We had a fantastic tubing adventure with Sarah yesterday. She was knowledgeable, friendly, and patient as she helped our little group down the calm river journey. My senior citizen mother had hurt her wrist earlier and couldn’t paddle well, and Sarah was great with bumping her to keep her on track. From ages 10 to 68, all three generations loved this tubing excursion!
Bonnie Smith — Google review
My friend raved about the experience, and I had high expectations going in. The front desk treated me like a lifelong friend, and I felt super excited about the rest of the day. We loaded on the bus and the guides squeezed in for the 30 minute ride. Instead of relaxing, they entertained, engaged, and made us feel important. To me, this was going the extra mile that sets them apart because small details matter. The river was raging, gnarly was the word we heard often, and our guide, CAVEMAN, beemed with experience and a desire to make sure we were having a blast. He didn't disappoint! There wasn't a moment I didn't enjoy and that included being thrown out on "Slice and Dice." I left feeling I have friends for life and a new returning trip for my family.
Museum offering educational & interactive displays exploring energy, with a focus on nuclear power.
Four adults and my grandson went. It was very interesting for all of us. Not too crowded on Monday. Some interactive stuff like programming a mechanical mouse in the lab. Lots of nuke history.
frederick b — Google review
I never had the chance to visit the museum in its previous location, however I can reinforce previous reviews that say this museum is very small. It's also hard to tell what age group this museum is catering to. The front half of the museum is very wordy, mature, and packed with information. The back half features many interactive displays obviously geared towards children. It seems like it would make more sense to have more interactive, kid-friendly displays throughout, rather than packed in the back of the museum.
The staff at the museum seemed very friendly and knowledgeable, with some members being long-term residents and/or employees in Oak Ridge with firsthand experience related to the exhibits in the museum. One staff member approached us multiple times to share anecdotes relating to Oak Ridge, which was nice and unexpected!
Overall, I liked the musuem. However, it was small and didn't have as many artifacts and relics as I had hoped. Unfortunately there were a lot of exhibits that only had paragraphs on the wall to read and didn't include the physical objects that really catch your eye and hold your interest.
If you're looking for a museum exclusively relating to Oak Ridge or the Manhattan Project, I think the K-25 History Center down the road is slightly better, as it's roughly the same size and manages to pack more information and more artifacts into the museum. But if you're in the area and looking for things to do, it can't hurt to visit both as they both have their strengths and weaknesses!
Jacob Boissonnault — Google review
Incredibly small, but the fee for entry isn't terrible at $10.00. You could absolutely see everything they have here in less than one hour. There are not a lot of actual relics, but they have a wide variety of 3D printed replicas of items of interest. Weekdays are full of school field trips so be prepared for a bit of noise if you visit during those times.
Brian Savage — Google review
Super nice and clean little place. The activity areas were nice (although some things were broken). The portions about the history of Oak Ridge and the atom bomb were interesting, but honestly, nowhere near as good as the old museum. My kids missed seeing all of the bombs that used to be there. They would love to go back however.
Amber Hyde — Google review
Enjoyed this place. And a 3D printed Jeep. Come on. Informative.
Manhattan project. I believe the bomb saved 1000s of lives.
Steven Stacey — Google review
The American Museum of Science and Energy is a fantastic place that is just jam packed with information, displays, and interactive features throughout - all related to science and energy contributions that the Oak Ridge National Laboratory were instrumental in making. The amount of information will keep you there for a couple of hours, and there are some games and such in the back that could keep you there longer. It's relatively inexpensive and well worth the admission price. Staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. I'd highly recommend this museum.
Jon Monahan — Google review
A neat and fun place to learn about nuclear energy and science. Several good hands on exhibit options.
You won’t be bored and will learn and have fun at the same time. Fascinating and informative video worth viewing. Learn about nuclear submarines and neutron detectors, and have some fun with Archimedes Screws. Learn more about the Secret City and life during WWII.
Exhibits are well laid out, and a lot of time and money was put into this museum and it shows. Gift shop has all sorts of interesting items for sale as well, most reasonably priced. Bring in a few quarters to play the pinball machine. See an entire Army Jeep completely made on a 3D printer (how did they even do that?) as well as a small car and an old robot. Such a unique mix of items that will keep you entertained as you explore the museum. Don’t let the fact that it is at the end of a mall fool you. This place is large and has something for everyone and very reasonably priced to enter. Even if passing through at least put this museum on your list.
J Hytken — Google review
An excellent museum in the heart of Oak Ridge
Oak Ridge has a rich history steeped in science and helping to build the atomic bomb and win WWII
The Oak Ridge Museum of Science and Energy is a captivating destination that offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and groundbreaking scientific advancements of Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The museum provides an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It showcases the remarkable contributions of Oak Ridge to the fields of nuclear science, energy research, and national defense. Through informative exhibits, interactive displays, and engaging multimedia presentations, visitors are taken on a journey through time, exploring the city's pivotal role in the Manhattan Project during World War II and its subsequent impact on science, technology, and society.
One of the highlights of the museum is its comprehensive collection of artifacts, including historical documents, photographs, and equipment used in early nuclear research. These exhibits offer a tangible connection to the past and provide valuable insights into the scientific breakthroughs achieved in Oak Ridge.
The museum offers educational programs, workshops, special events that further enhance the learning experience. There is a bus tour that leaves from here to take some visitors around Oak Ridge on a tour of the various key historical sites. Knowledgeable and friendly staff members are readily available to answer questions and provide additional information, ensuring a fulfilling visit.
Overall, the Oak Ridge Museum of Science and Energy is a must-visit attraction for those interested in the history of science and technology.
Ward Dougherty — Google review
This was inexpensive and informative stop! It's small, but don't let that fool you. There is a lot to look at and try.
We gave the robotic arms our best shot and tried the brain games in the back. I wish I had taken a pic of the periodic table of games. It was such a fun room!
All the examples of 3D printed objects were neat to see too.
Can you imagine keeping an entire city secret in today's connected society?!
Patricia Sawyer — Google review
This museum gives an overview of the history and current role Oak Ridge, TN plays in the nuclear power and technology fields. There are some interactive displays that are entertaining and educational for older elementary aged children up to adults. I spent an hour and a half at the museum and was able to see all of the exhibits. I would recommend a visit!
Amanda Norberg — Google review
This was an awesome BSA Scouting trip with our awesome troop. The museum had many fun and interactive activities. We attended A demonstration of the Van de Graaff generator to learn about electricity. This is the hair raising activity that everyone loves so much! The gift shop was so fun with lots of interesting selections. Staff at the museum were so nice and accommodating.
We zip lined with Gracie and Winnie. They were both so awesome and made the experience amazing!
We then water rafted and got Winnie and Lily! Both were amazing and even suggested things to do/ places to eat on our stay!
We will definitely be back and hope we get these girls again!
megan gordon — Google review
If you’re in the area you HAVE TO take this rafting trip! Our guide Danny “trash man” was very knowledgeable and a great asset to the trip…do yourself a favor and take the “full river” excursion. Our son even said “this is awesome” when we stopped for lunch. Don’t miss the Raft1 water slide either. Dry refreshing and Raft1 made it as easy as possible to enjoy the day with the family. Put Raft1 on your vacation agenda…your family will thank you for making great memories…
Steve & Peggy Slocum — Google review
We had the best day Zip lining and white water rafting. Bob and Anna were great on our zip lining tour. Dirt was an absolutely amazing river guide. We felt safe the whole time yet we had a blast. We will definitely be back!
Ariel Stark — Google review
Great place for families. There is a cafe with food and you are allowed to bring outside food in. We packed a whole ice chest of food for lunch and had no issue. All of the staff were wonderful. Alisha at the front desk was super welcoming and answered all of our questions! For zip lining we were with Logan, Emily, and Wiley. All awesome people! They were easy to talk to, very knowledgeable, and funny! We felt super comfortable with them. Noah was our guide for rafting. Super cool and easy to talk to. This guy knows the river like the back of his hand and has some great stories. We had such a great time with him- one of the best experiences of my life. Holden and Emily were the tour guides for the other half of our group and they loved them both as well! 100% recommend this place!
hadley foster — Google review
This was my youngest two daughters first experience with whitewater rafting. Our guide Jase was awesome. He made the experience for the girls exceptional. We will be back to Raft One. The girls talked all the way home about our next trip and if they could bring their friends.
Jody Byrd — Google review
Our FULL day with Raft1 exceeded our expectations! We started with zip lining. Our guides were Weston and Holden. They were very witty and fun but also very safe.. though we tested their skills quite regularly! Never a dull moment with my family! Next , we had an AWESOME rafting trip!! Our guide ,Dirt, was great!! Very informative and fun!!! Kept an eye out for everyone and made sure everyone was safe!! ☺️ I HIGHLY recommend Raft1 for anyone wanting to have a good time!!! And remember…. You get what you pay for! 😜
Angie Wilson — Google review
I’ve never in my life done this ( water rafting ) and I’m 39, we did a friend trip (5) from Florida and we were nervous as none of us have experience this but I have to say that our guide HOLDEN was the man, he made the experience fun, he kept us laughing, he was very knowledgeable about the river, told us exactly what to do not to get hurt, made the experience so great. RAFTONE IS DEFINITELY A PLACE TO VISIT… thank you guys and HOLDEN thank you so much 😊 👍🏽
D.A.C — Google review
We had an awesome experience with Raft 1 ziplining. We were able to call the day off, on a Friday, and get in on the 2 hour zip. Price was reasonable. Gift shop was nice. Noah and Cal were top-notch guides. It takes a specific personality to help people enjoy these types of things, while still putting safety first.
There is a photo package offered at the end which was a reasonable cost and a nice touch.
Go zip!
Nicole Lopez — Google review
We took an amazing zip-line tour and it was our first time for that, both in our lives and together. Our guides Gracie and Weston were amazingly patient with us and really humorous the whole tour. Thank you both for a wonderful ride!
Heath Joiner — Google review
Ziplining - our family of five (kids age 10, 12, 13) did the course. It was just us, so was like a private group with 2 really good guides (Spencer and Jamie). Course is really good, lots of long zips. You do have to slow yourself down on several by placing a gloved hand on the line, we didn’t really like this aspect and had never had to do that on other courses. But overall really good and we’d do it again.
Middle Raft trip - just my son and I did. It was AWESOME! Our guide Jace was the best. It was our first time doing this level of rapids and son was scared to fall out, we asked for a safe ride and Jace delivered. Plus they did extra special things that other outfitters didn’t, like slide rock where we got out and could jump on and slide down our overturned raft and a hole jump thing, all of the other rafts just cruised by watching us have more fun. Would highly recommend, felt safe the entire ride and we really enjoyed it. Definitely request Jace.
Faith Belcher — Google review
Jace was outstanding as our guide on our first ever rafting trip. He went out of his way to assure we had the most amazing time and it did not go unnoticed. My 13 yr old daughter practically seems soulless on a regular but she was smiling from ear to ear the entire time. He made sure we remained safe but thoroughly enjoyed the ride at the same time. He was the best guide we could've asked for!
Jessica Holloman — Google review
10/10 recommend! This was the highlight of our girls trip! SHOUTOUT TO BUCKY AND SPENCER for the entertainment and excitement all while keeping us safe. We zip lined the first day and had so much fun that we returned for white water rafting the next day! As my first time experiencing these things, I definitely felt confident with Bucky and Spencer giving us directions and guiding us along the way! Would love to come back!
Destiny Kerst — Google review
We cannot say enough about how spectacular this rafting company is. I have been coming here every summer with my husband James for the past 6 years, and he’s been rafting with them for the past 15 years. They never disappoint and we always have the time of our lives. We have brought various guests with us, from children to petrified adults to other adventure seekers like ourselves, and everyone always has a great time. All the guides are amazing and you can tell the company takes their time to ensure they offer the best trained guides. We have had Dirt as our trusty guide several times. I strongly recommend asking for him as your guide- you will have an amazing time! Dirt knows every inch of the Ocoee River, is highly skilled, and super friendly. He knows how to show his guests a great time. On one of the slower days, he even took us out to a neat little waterfall just off the side of the river. It was such a lovely surprise and great addition to our trip. Safety is a top concern as well. The owners, two brothers, Brent and Dusty, always greet us with a smile and remember us from years past (they are both very experienced guides as well!) Book your excursions with this outfit, you will be happy you did!
Lien d'Hespeel — Google review
Amazing experience and we was blessed to have a great guide Spencer. Spencer was really knowledgeable about the river and compassionate toward us. He was helpful and humble, funny and make the experience extra fun. Having a great guide like Spencer make things so much better specially for my husband and I first timers doing rafting. For us was a experience that will go in our memories. We was celebrating our anniversary and husband birthday. So happy I chooses raftone.
Adventure company specializing in whitewater rafting trips, plus kayaking, canoeing & tubing runs.
This was my first rafting trip and now I’m addicted! We rafted the middle and enjoyed every bit of it! My group highly recommends Mayo (raft guide) he knew what he was doing and kept us in the raft as requested! We will be going back next year to raft the beginning middle and end! Thank you rolling thunder!
Juliana Miller — Google review
We had a blast white water rafting. Donavon was a fun and experienced guide. He kept us laughing during our trip but also was very knowledgeable about the river/area. My best friend never had white water rafted before and he kept her nerves at ease. The owner of Rolling thunder was very thorough in the pre-trip information. I would definitely recommend it and we are definitely going to return.
Litza Vazquez — Google review
Wow, this was awesome!! What a great time the family had, so they want you there at least 30 minutes before the trip to go over rules and gear. Once you have the gear, you go on a 15-minute bus ride to the drop-off section. Then off you go!! The staff there is excellent most people are a little nervous but once you are on the river it's beautiful. Definitely give this a shot you will really enjoy it.
Jorge a Lopez Jr — Google review
Our tour guide “Subway” made the whole trip! Amazing views and would 10/10 recommend asking for “subway” to be your guide! Incredible how he knows the river so well! We did the best/coolest stuff out of all the rafts down the river that day! We surfed some waves, rode the bull and never fell out also heard so incredible stories along the way!
Wesley Hebert — Google review
AMAZING! We were a big group of 7 and only 1 of us had been rafting in the past, but our guide Chris was phenomenal. He truly knew how to read our group and made it exciting but also made us feel comfortable and safe the whole trip. We were a big group but they allowed us all to stay in the same raft and all the guides seemed so friendly and we’re constantly cracking jokes on the bus ride to keep the vibe positive. We will definitely be back! Great prices too!
Ina Slavova — Google review
What an awesome time!!! We went twice and would go again! My preteen daughter and I kayaked the 1.5 mile section several days ago, and my wife, daughter, and I did the 6 mile section today. We had a blast! The staff a RTRC was great, and the drop off process was seamless. The river is so peaceful, and we enjoyed going at our own pace.
Matt Jackson — Google review
Rolling Thunder did not disappoint, it was intense, exciting snd so much fun!! Jim was amazing! He made us feel safe and part of a team. Highly Recommend doing both the Upper and Middle Ocoee, We did!!
tina nicks — Google review
Absolutely amazing trip. Father son trip before son leaves to college. Only disappointment is that I waited too long. Should have done this long time ago. Was blast and worth every cent. Quizno was awesome. From what I hear taught subway everything he knows. Great guide and made for even more amazing experience.
Dr. Trent Nessler — Google review
Five stars all the way through from start to finish. Reservation and check-in were seamless. The orientation and bus ride was funny and informative. Our river guide Kailee was Amazing! She had great control of our raft even when we were screaming instead of rowing, lol. My family and I had the best time ever! It was thrilling, exhilarating, fun and it's one of those adventures in life you've got to try at least once. I would only trust Rolling Thunder River Company with my whitewater adventure.
Nicole Calvert — Google review
Best experience I ever had. Thanks to the Rolling Thunder River Company team they are *AWESOM* Our guide were Kailee, she gave us the experience that we will talk about for a life time she gets a "10" in my book, The guide, guy on the bus from Chattanooga I cannot remember his name deserves a *10* also he make you feel so welcome. Man I love this place and the staff everyone gets a *10* peace out guys until I get back in may.
Gerald Powell — Google review
Had such an amazing time!! Kailey gave us the best experience possible and made my brothers birthday even more special. Highly recommended for family and friends, the views are amazing the staff are friendly
Definitely will be coming back!
mariah calvert — Google review
Lilly was our tour guide and not only was she super funny she was an amazing guide! We had 10 in our group, 5 in each raft. We did so many "extras" on the trip including 360's, surfing' and riding the bull!! It was such a blast, will definitely be back!!
Nikki Kay — Google review
Best rafting company on the ocoee, always experienced and knowledgeable guides. Jefe took extraa good care of us on our trip. Made sure we surfed the holes and got our money’s worth. Will definitely be back next year to do the olympic course.
Michael Evans — Google review
We had a blast with Wildman Jack at Rolling Thunder River Company!
Earlier that day, we had booked with another company on a different river. When we got all the way up to the drop-in spot we were informed that the river didn't have enough water.
Bummer.
That's when we called Rolling Thunder and they couldn't have been more helpful. They were able to book us on one of their last runs for the day over the phone in time to save the day.
That's when a got paired with the infamous Wildman Jack. He was, simply put, amazing. His knowledge of the rivers and surrounding areas is in itself a reason to book with him. But the real fun is on the river with Wildman! Don't let the name fool you though, when one of our party members took an unexpected excursion off the raft, Wildman sprang into action and add him back on board before we knew it.
I can't say enough about how fun this is. You owe is to yourself to go to Rolling Thunder and make sure you ask for Wildman Jack!
Brian Chambers — Google review
Most fun we’ve had in years! The people at this company really care about their customers. We had a guide named “wild man Jac” who was super laid back, hilarious and yet still extremely professional. He made sure we had fun and stayed safe. 10/10 highly recommend this company and the guide Wild man Jac!
christian courtney — Google review
Such a great first experience! Everything was well organized and well done from start to finish and I felt all our youth group kids were safe, while simultaneously having an amazing experience. Jackson was the guide on my raft and he was incredible! Super knowledgeable about the river, the area and rafting. He answered every question I threw at him, and I ask alotta questions. In addition to being super smart, he was super fun. He balanced giving our group a safe experience with as many challenges as we could manage and were up for. He let us feel like we could "choose our adventure" while being well cared for by an experienced, thoughtful, mindful guide who fulfilled every word he gave and didn't once steer us wrong - pun intended. So grateful for Jackson and the whole Rolling Thunder Team!!
The Knoxville Zoo is a great place to visit for families with kids, as it offers educational experiences and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. From camel rides and carousels to splash pads and even a family petting zoo, there's something for everyone at this zoo.
I have been coming here since 2000 with my family. We are proud members! One of our favorite zoos. Not as big as the Nashville zoo, but they just seem to have better Layout /Exhibits / Lot of places to stop and rest with benches, Picnic tables. Not to meet you boo with the zoo but Halloween is our favorite thing every year. I don’t like the fact to expose you have to go through the gift shop to exit the zoo. Now that usually causes a little problem with the kids. That really the only thing I hate about this zoo. Should be an option to exit without going through the gift shop.
Carolyn Smith — Google review
One of the best zoos I've been to. The animals seem happy and active, and not only are the exhibits top notch with multiple view points, some of which are inside (with A/C!), but the walking paths are engaging with thoughtfully placed water misters and shade! So much care for the animals and guests. Plenty of attractions to keep kids happy, the food is actually good and reasonably priced. Definitely worth a trip!! 10/10
Megan Bormuth — Google review
I live about 45 minutes away from Knoxville and yearly we get memberships to the zoo. I highly recommend doing so if you live in the area! The zoo is smaller than many zoos, but still has a lot to do and see for kids of all ages. They’ve recently renovated their habitat for reptiles and it looks great! They host seasonal events and activities (Boo at the Zoo, dinosaur takeover, etc.). The splash pad is great, the petting zoo and play area are cute, and the food at the restaurants are (expectedly) overpriced, but good quality. They do well in their maintenance and cleanliness and it seems like the animals are well cared for.
Megan Fletcher — Google review
Went to the Knoxville zoo today with my kids. We went up to get our tickets and the girl charged me for my two year old who should have been free. After I corrected that she also charged $5.00 for parking. The lot was so full we had to park over by Muse and we still got charged for parking. So for four of us we paid $80.85. That's kind of steep for a zoo this size. Once inside we realized many of the animals were not outside. Many enclosures had nothing to view and several people were commenting on it. Also couldn't help but notice lots of the concessions stands were closed as well. It's spring break and it was very crowded. My kids rode the train and the merry go round and both were an additional $4 per kid per ride. They did however enjoy both. What animals we were able to see my kids enjoyed. They also loved the dinosaur a lot. The petting zoo was a favorite of the kids as well. I gave three stars because my kids did enjoy the experience. My girl and I were somewhat disappointed and probably had a two star experience. They need more animals and more viewing opportunities for the animals they do have. The kids were entertained and I guess that's all that counts. Being forced to exit through the gift shop with kids felt like a final cash grab. Water for $3.50 in the vending machine with all the water fountains off was frustrating. I would reluctantly recommend a visit but not really enthusiastically. We wished we had a better time but we're just being honest.
John Green — Google review
We love Zoo Knoxville! My daughter adores all her animal friends who live at the zoo. She is a big fan of monkeys, red pandas, ghiraffes, otters, and tigers. The zoo is well arranged for ease of visiting. This zoo's trails run in loops and the animals have reasonably large well appropriated paddocks. There is plenty of shade for the animals and humans that are at the zoo. The zoo has sunscreen and hand sanitizer dispensers throughout their facilities for sanitizing and preventing children from getting sun burnt. There is also a splash pad for children and parents to cool down during the hot of the Summer. This zoo is definitely a world class Zoological Park.
Jason Henry — Google review
We love this zoo! The staff is so friendly, and very knowledgeable. We had the opportunity to go to a party hosted privately after hours, and to have the zoo to ourselves was such a wonderful experience. The guided tours, refreshments along the way, feeding the giraffe and a catered dinner, just wow! They pull out all the stops!
Ashley Reese — Google review
For about 10 yrs we have bought yr passes...we have skipped a year here and there before openings of new exhibits...we are such a big fan of knoxville zoo...they have some neat exhibits and fun experiences...till September you can walk the trails and see the dinosaurs and some move...the new outer space is one of our favorites. Being up close to red pandas and a sloth is pretty cool too! Not to mention riding carousel.
Sherri Bridges — Google review
It was a wonderful day with my son, their Uncle Wesley, and 2 & 3 yr old granddaughters. Their parents were on a BD and Anniversary get away. It was miserably hot so the misters were nice to walk through. All the animals were out and we seen them all but the Bears. We actually noticed how Healthy all the animals looked too. We are so very proud of Knoxville Zoo. The moving and roaring Dino's throughout was exciting. I wish we had known more about the Dino Eggs while we were actually there. But my 3 yr old found them anyway. The old Safari Jeep was a perfect idea for kids to play in. It was truly a wonderful day to spend with my grown son and our little ones.
Kim Hatfield — Google review
Have been to many of the zoo's throughout the US and this has become our favorite! At the end of our 1st visit we bought memberships and going back regularly. Love the layout of the animals and allows you to feel like you are up close and personal. The animals all look so healthy and happy with their unique enclosures. Even on a cooler cloudy day, the zoo is a great place to visit and enjoy a walk. A must go for everyone, it won't disappoint.
Lena Mazur — Google review
We love this zoo so much!!! Great reptile exhibit indoors for inclement weather. Love the new otter habitat too! Plenty of good food options and places for kids to play between visiting the animals. Kids got to feed a sloth one time too!
Courtney Cartellieri — Google review
A pretty decent zoo for the price. It's about $25/person to get in, and you can easily spend a few hours here. They have a good amount of things for small kids to keep them busy. There's a nice play area, petting zoo, carousel, and a splash pad. The assortment of animals is pretty standard for a zoo. I did appreciate the turtle and frog section they have set up. The gift shop is very pricey, so get your stuffed animals elsewhere and skip the markups.
Beans and Waffles — Google review
Great experience. Lots of animals and very spacious. This is one of the better zoos that I've been to. I think the directions are a little difficult to follow, But ultimately you will manage I really enjoyed the up close and personal tiger area and then the lion area.
Scott G — Google review
Giving a three stars simply because 3-4 exhibits was empty. We wasn’t able to see the zebras, tiger,otters, rhinos they where no out. I’m unsure what was going on but my little girl was so sad about the zebras. The dinosaur exhibit was truly wonderful. We have a Dino obsessed little boy and he was amazed. They made the whole trip worth it just to see him smile. Over all nice zoo would recommend updating the strollers too they were a little run down. But I do like that they have that option to be able to rent one. Parking was a mess but not the zoos fault it was just a busy time.
Alice Williams — Google review
The Knoxville Zoo is a great place to spend the morning before the day gets too hot. Even when the animals are too hot, you can still see them indoors as these spaces have glassed viewing areas. My daughter and I spent around 2 1/2 hours viewing the animals and reading about the various conservation programs such as the Red Panda Preservation. Surprisingly, the Dinosaurs at Dawn exhibit was also a favorite and we were impressed by their animatronics. Parking was free and easy. The other visitors seemed to be local parents/grandparents with small children.
Lindsay Castano — Google review
Zoo Knoxville was great, however some of the enclosures did not have any of the animals posted that was supposed to be in them (just a few enclosures). We did get to see several animals which did make for the empty enclosures. We stepped into one of the cafes got in line to grab a drink. The cashier was putting souvenir cups together and putting the straws in them with her bare hands (should of been wearing gloves) we saw this and left the Cafe. Our experience was great but could have been better. We will come back to the animals.
Chris Aldridge — Google review
Nice little Zoo. (I'm from San Diego, and our Zoo is very large and more than one park, which is why I said little Zoo.) They do a nice job with the enclosures. Fun outing to take the Grandkids for the day! They're doing a little remodeling, so there were a few interruptions to the flow around the park. They have the natural habitat type of enclosures, which I appreciate. Lovely weather, we had a lot of fun! I also appreciate the fact that they have free admission for Veterans! Good job!!
Sheryl D. — Google review
Great place to take your kids of any age! Yes some days the animals are hiding and you don’t see much but other days they are out and about it’s amazing to see! Some times they even have zoo mascots come out and interact with the kids! I think the food is a bit pricey but overall a great zoo experience!
Marissa Lowery — Google review
Great zoo. Nice place for the family to enjoy an outing. Lots of cool animals. Make sure to visit the Arc building. It has several snakes and neat things.
Nitak Holcomb — Google review
Very clean. They have fun interacting animals And they also have extinct animals like this One that Is mixed with a Tiger bear and has horns on his head. And they're also coming out with a dinosaur Except they have fun interacting. Little rides for the kids like under 4 or 5 or 6. And you can put them on the little scooters that are shaped like animals and you can ride with them around in the park. They also have a petting zoo a playground and the sandbox for them. You should go.
Anthony Toparis — Google review
The Knoxville Zoo is a fantastic place to visit. With a diverse range of animals and well-maintained habitats, it provides an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about conservation, and they offer informative talks and feeding sessions. The zoo's layout is easy to navigate, and there are plenty of shaded areas to take a break. It's a great destination for families, animal lovers, and anyone looking to support wildlife preservation. Don't miss the red pandas and the reptile exhibits – they are a real highlight!
Matt Hill — Google review
The Knoxville Zoo is always a blast. If you have kids and/or love animals, I highly recommend visiting. Some of these pics are from their temporary Planet Prehistoric exhibit, which is pretty cool.
Tiffany Bonior — Google review
So fun! We thought we were done in 2 hours then quickly realized we missed a whole section of the zoo in the back with elephant and rhino and more! We will definitely be back.
P.s. - $5 for parking unless you're a member!
Jess Payne — Google review
What an amazing zoo! My toddler loved that for many of the animals there were multiple views you could look through to see them! There were many cool activities throughout the zoo which made the experience even better! We will definitely be going back!
Valerie Ladwig — Google review
We love the Zoo! We are season pass holders if you are a family and plan on going more than once get the pass it’s totally worthy it. They have great events (Boo at the Zoo) and you can even get married there! I’ve officiated 3 weddings there. The staff is always friendly and willing to help you. They also have a great kids area with a sand pit, a little water feature (not together) and an aviary that you can going and touch the birds!
Happy Unions Weddings by The Trusty Notary — Google review
Nice selection of animals, it's nice how big the exhibits are. Just a lot of walking. As well as the gift shop was nice just seemed high price but still bought from. .kids enjoyed the zoo.
Harrah's Cherokee Valley River is a casino resort with four casual dining options, a bar and coffee shop, and well-trained staff. The location is wheelchair accessible and popular for family trips. Their food court is hygienic with quick service. They regularly add new slot machines to their collection that offer fun playing experience. The hotel rooms are comfortable with cozy beds and pillows making it an ideal vacation or weekend getaway spot.
Best customer service I've received in a long time. I had accidentally booked us at a different hotel and casino resort that was another 90 minutes away. Becky helped us by calling and getting it switched over last minute. Completely saved our night. She went above and beyond to make it as stress free as possible.
The casino itself is small compared to others that I've been to, but everything is clean, new, and it was an overall great experience. Would definitely come again if in the area.
Shelby Larsen — Google review
This place is "Starting" to grow on me. Much better atmosphere than my visit back in November 2021. Masks are encouraged but not Forced on you. The Food court has gotten back into it's groove and the options are plentiful and given a 4 Day 3 night stay we had tried just about everything with no complaints. The main Restaurant was superb, my Steak couldn't have been cooked any better and exactly as I requested. Medium with no seasoning only salt and hint of cracked pepper. This place still has plenty of real table games(it's nice have a real human for a dealer). They still have a mix of virtual table machines but the balance was much better than a lot of other out of the way casino resorts are going. Great selection of slots but still like all the other casinos, they are very tight. The areas for those not able to gamble was open and they had plenty to do to keep them busy. I recommend you check out their website to see all the options and entrainment available to anyone traveling with young people. I seen quite a few on this trip and they seemed quite happy and talkative. In all, we enjoyed this visit but I still miss my Wisconsin favorites. However, this one will definitely grow on you. Enjoy and definitely Good Luck! You'll need it, Lol.
Kenton Wiedenbeck — Google review
Went to the casino. Did not stay at the hotel. If you sign up for a players card you get $25 free play. Very cool. Player tiers pretty easy to access. If you like to gamble everything easy to get to. The table games were full but the couple that were not, did offer to teach me. You don't always get that at Hard Rock. Harrah's is very friendly and the bar prices are reasonable and close by. All the staff was nice and were joking with us. Wish it was closer!
Wayne Carpenter — Google review
My husband and I had a wonderful 2 night stay at Harrah’s Valley River in Murphy, NC. The hotel was extremely clean with comfy beds and with amazing views. The casino is small but very clean and well situated. We loved it. Everyone was kind and helpful. Super nice food court. We’re already planning a trip back there.
Cindy PA — Google review
Drove from Georgia. Love this casino. Only downsides are no free drinks and no poker. Gotta buy drinks for $10. If you want to play poker, gotta go the neighbor casino 20 minutes away.
Bathrooms were clean. Staff was friendly. Dealers also teach. Gave out masks at entrances.
Phi Hoang Nguyen — Google review
Really nice getaway place for a short visit with adults. Good food, mountain lifestyle an culture, historic location, and plenty of gambling games to bet on. Cost of total stay is pretty much whatever you want it to be an if you get real lucky the trip could prove very lucrative. I will be visiting here again and again.
Joshua Bailey — Google review
This place is always fun. Love the free play they give out sometimes. They're doing construction to improve, so parking is a little wonky right now. Great place to possibly make a few dollars or at least be entertained.
JudyMarie — Google review
My husband and I celebrated our anniversary here, and it was an amazing experience! It was a very relaxed environment, and open to beginners (like me!) We had dinner at the Landing Cafe and sat at the bar. Their team (Stevie & Alex) were doing a fantastic job on a busy Saturday night. All of the staff in the casino was knowledgeable, all facilities cleanly, and all of the guests seemed to be having a great time like us! We will definitely be going back since it was close to our home in Tennessee. Very convenient location and great for an extended trip or a day trip!
Megan Greene — Google review
The staff is excellent! The waitresses are so nice , the hot chocolate and vanilla cappuccino’s on the casino floor are so good ( tip your waitress she running all over the casino floor) this location is my favorite to bring my mom , easy to get around if you have a walker or wheel chair. The food court is really good. very clean , the staff cooking and serving work hard to keep the lines moving. The selection of slot machines are great , they are always getting new ones , fun to play .Stayed here for a few days last spring, Hotel rooms are very nice, great beds and comfortable pillows. Very relaxing environment, great place for a vacation or weekend trip.
Wendy Pisano — Google review
Nice hotel and casino setup. All very new and clean. Casino area is pretty small and can feel overcrowded a bit. Was hard to get on to machines we wanted to play, as there were always others on them and waiting. But overall a nice experience.
Was disappointed about the craps table minimum. A $25 minimum makes it very hard to play for a casual player. Would love if there was a $5 or at least a $10 min option.
Jenny Dougherty — Google review
I’ve been a hotel guest on many occasions and each time it was a great experience. The hotel is clean and the atmosphere there is inviting, to say the least. The staff are incredible, the casino is well-run and although the hotel is under renovation, it’s quiet. There’s not much to improve upon, it’s very impressive how well the hotel treats the guests, every time.
Ashley Grooms — Google review
My first visit to the casino 🎰 hidden in the mountains of North Carolina in a nice quiet town of 🥰 Murphy. My only complaint was there was any sitting chair in my room. I like to read.📕
Sherrie was very nice and helpful. And a big shout out to Bill and Travis at the bellhop
Pete Kane — Google review
Very adorable with great views. The room was comfortable and roomy. They had many different food and dinning options. Staff was very accommodating to your need. If you like to gamble this is the perfect place. It is also a great place to stay even if you don’t gamble which worked for us. It’s close to many different surroundings towns.
Heather Mueller — Google review
Didn't do any pictures, but we really liked their food court options. More affordable & easily accessible than at Cherokee. We just did a day trip for a fall mountain ride. Smaller casino, so easier to navigate, but it appears they are expanding. An enjoyable & relaxing day trip from Cherokee
June Bennett — Google review
Great trip and time in the casino. The rewards program is highly beneficial. The room was nice, spacious and clean. The employees who helped us get checked in and to our room were also great . That said once we got home, not only did we discover you don't get your full deposit back, we were also charged the deposit twice. When we called to dispute this problem the response and desire of that staff member to help resolve the problem was less than desirable and now we are stuck disputing it. Outside of that, the time in the casino was Fantastic and so were the people who helped make the experience memorable.
Jessica Cannon — Google review
I had a great overnight stay. The room was spacious and clean and with great views! The slots were kind to me also! Every employee that I interacted with was very friendly and helpful. I would love to go back New Years Eve, but Ihate driving in the dark. I had a lovely time. Next time I will take pictures.
Yevette Parker — Google review
Rooms are overpriced but clean, well equipped and quiet. Staff is friendly and accommodating. Casino is small but clean and has most of the games you would see at any casino and it’s not very crowded. The food choices are all fast food but will work in a pinch. The VIP bar is my biggest complaint as I’ve never sat at a more uncomfortable bar. Everyone agreed and the staff said the owners were aware but did not plan to update it. This is a shame as we would have spent much more time there but our backs and knees were killing us from hunching and crowding to reach the machines.
Julie Palmeri — Google review
Slots were tight as a virgin. Payouts & bonuses were very minimal to none. Music was depressing. Felt like I was at a security guard convention with an over abundance of security guards for such a small place. Heard they are planning to expand. Place has tons of potential, but needs reworked. Prefer the other Cherokee Casino and probably won’t be back until changes are made. Clean and friendly environment. Food court was great. Hotel rooms were decent, plenty of rooms. No smoking and no valet. Plenty of parking. Would be a great place to come and watch sports. Drinks are pricey. Beautiful location.
JENNIFER WARD — Google review
I visited this location for the first time with my elderly mom. The first night was fine. The next night the room was fill with strong cigarette coming from the headboard. I was given an option to use a machine to take out the smoke and if we change rooms it would be faraway from the elevator, no access to transport items and too far for my mom to walk. We took the option of the machine and few hours later the room was full of smoke again. I have acute asthma and now have to get treatment for inhaling all of this smoke. I would like to be compensated for my last two nights and ensure if I visit again that they implement some time questionnaire if you are. Smoker so they are not house in the same area with non smokers.
Melissa Francisco — Google review
Rented cabin nearby so didn't experience rooms but enjoyed the casino. Currently under expansion but has enough slot machines to play. Has compactly for large crowds. Has been busy the times I have went but has enough varity of new popular game machines to go around. It does serve sandwiches etc now with more to come.
Dottie Kirkland — Google review
Save money and time. Go to Dave and Buster's. We thought about staying the night and asked to see a suite. No suites. We were shown their biggest room. Not so big and only available for comped high rollers. Even though it is only a 90 minute drive from me I have absolutely no desire to go back. We did have dinner in their only sit down restaurant. Skip that too.
Brian Rhodes — Google review
Just went to gamble. Didn't win anything. Not even a little line pay when we went. My husband hit $100.. I hit $0. Panda Garden was good!! It's in the mountains. Pretty location and a long ride for us. It's been a while since we went and planning on giving it another try. Didn't stay the night or had any service. Can't rate that.
celeste mcclure — Google review
Decided to check out this casino a couple of days ago. Wish we would have just not! I have heard such good things about it, but none of that held true. The casino floor is not very big at all. We were there early in the morning, but still could not play the slots that we wanted to because they were very limited and people just stayed on them the entire time! Did not see a cocktail waitress the entire time that we were there, so that was disappointing as well. Definitely will not be coming back again! I will stick with Cherokee!
Clarissa Heckathorn — Google review
Fun birthday trip. Won a jackpot and witnessed many other winners while there. Staff is friendly and helpful. Rooms are clean. The water pressure meh, but we didn't let it ruin an otherwise great experience. The double window room in the hotel was a bonus view from the 5th floor.
Money Maker — Google review
My wife and I went to Harrah's to celebrate our retirement. Had dinner at Landings Cafe the food was fabulous. Popcorn shrimp for an appetizer, rib eye for me, my Sweetie had the pork tenderloin. Everything was great. Our waitress, Desiree, was super. She was polite, thanked us for coming in, was there to answer questions, but never rushed us. Great employee with stellar customer service skills. Stopped in the casino to donate a few bucks. It's nice,clean and the employees are very helpful.
Tom Kastelitz — Google review
The casino is currently under construction and there were a lot of games offline and areas completely closed off. For court is limited and could offer better selection. Glad I checked it out, but probably won't stay there again until construction is completed.
Sherry Bucknell Johnson — Google review
We stayed 3 nights to include New Year's eve. We also stayed over New Years last year. You throw a great New Years eve party! Even though the place was packed with thousands of people, there was no evidence of anyone being obnoxious or staggering drunk. It was just a really good time with a well behaved crowd. The music provided by the DJ was fantastic and had people dancing and singing along everywhere I looked, including me. It created a really fun party atmosphere. Unfortunately, the music from the band was a bit of a downer. Maybe next year you could just stick with the DJ? Not to be ungrateful, just a suggestion. Thank you for all the hospitality, including the beautiful clean rooms, and friendly staff. See you next year, or before.
Jeanne Hoel — Google review
My experience here was nothing less than fantastic. I lost my money but the amount of entertainment I received for my money was very well worth it. Will recommend to my family and friends. Actually , Harrahs Cherokee resorts needs to drive down the road and see how entertainment is supposed to be. Everyone was very upbeat and the atmosphere felt like you had a shot at winning. Which is a beautiful thing. There are plenty of games to keep you entertained.
Adam Prather — Google review
I'm not too far away from Harrah's-Murphy so I can't provide any input on the hotel, we only go to play the electronic craps. Unfortunately we went recently and found the table had been removed. We liked it because the limit was lower and there was usually room to play. We wanted to play but they only had one craps table open (Thursday afternoon) and there wasn't any room to play. Even if I'm local I don't want to drive there if there's no room to play at the tables.
Gateway to the West with historic structures & ruins, trails, cave tours, waterfalls & more.
This park is beautiful! The overlooks are incredible! Worth the drive if u don't live close by! Eastern Kentucky has beautiful mountains!! There is a huge parking area & bathrooms available.
April Dudgeon — Google review
I was very surprised about this historical park which definitely exceeded all my expectations! There’s lots to see here and you can hike so many trails! I highly recommend going up the Pinnacle overlook as the view is worth the drive or hike! Also, make sure to bring the stamp book as there is lots of stamps at the visitor center!
Daniel Duran — Google review
Beautiful, historic, and lots to see and hike. So many things to see and can bring the family. The welcome center was really cool as well and highly recommend stopping in there to check out. Our family loves it!
Allyson Williams — Google review
Beautiful, serene, pleasant, historic National Park! Presently a Florida resident, I've been visiting the area for nearly twenty years (my partner owns a farm 17 miles east of the park.) I am embarrassed to admit this was my first visit to this area of the park (there are several different areas of the park) I can't believe this Beautiful, historic "hidden gem" has been right " under my nose" for the last twenty years and we just discovered it's peaceful splendor. From my knowledge of the area, this is the western entrance/side of the park. Located near the towns of Cumberland Gap and Middlesboro. The park offers a superb diversion from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It provides a safe, quiet, natural experience perfect for all ages to enjoy an outdoor experience with lots of fresh air. Regardless if visiting alone or with a group, the park offers many opportunities for recreational activities or relaxation naturally. There are trails for hiking and walking, featuring rivers, streams, waterfalls and scenic views. Well maintained and clean picnic shelters. The park welcome center is a great place to start your visit, surrounded by plenty of complimentary parking. The restroom facilities were clean and well managed. Of course, the absolute "highlight " for my partner and I is the abundance of wildlife within the park. Park Rangers maintain a visible presence in the park, making a visit to the park very safe. Whether you plan to visit for a few hours or the entire day, Cumberland Gap National Park is a perfect escape from the "norm". If you're in the area, and can use a breath of fresh air, you should definitely check out this beautiful, peaceful and historic National Park. Oh, I did i mention there is no charge to enjoy this great park?!?!
Alan Harlow — Google review
Beautiful park in the Fall when the leaves are changing. If you like to hike there are several trails to choose from ranging from easy to hard. If you aren't into hiking you can drive up to the Pinnacle and a short, paved, handicap friendly path takes you right to the overlook. From the overlook you can see straight off to the Smoky Mountains in the distance, Joppa Mountain, and, of course, the Cumberland Gap. The visitors center is a great place to stop and get information about the park. Upstairs you can sit in some very comfortable rocking chairs and watch 3 short videos about the history of the park and Cumberland Gap which played a vital park in the countries expansion westward.
Sherry Clay — Google review
Day we went, there was a lady at the visitors' center showing how textiles were made by pioneers. She was very pleasant and informative. Held my girls attention. We drove up to Pinnacle Overlook, spectacular views, and a very curvy road. We hiked to the iron furnace and the Cumberland Gap historical marker from a parking lot in Virginia. Going to the landmarks was all uphill. Rangers in the visitors center were very helpful. Don't forgot you Passport Stamps! (They have a soft pad under the stamping surface,so don't rock stamp around too much or it's unreadable).
Erin Cecil — Google review
Great hiking, so much to take in! We parked at the earthworks and then hiked up to the Pinnacle. The view is amazing! Be sure to stop by the visitors center for some great history, and if you're lucky you might catch some reenactors, too
Rebecca Napier — Google review
Had a great time here. My only regret is that I wasn't able to budget more time this trip. The views were awesome and the park is very well kept. I am trying to line up a trip early fall before the color change crowd rolls in.
Ron Baker — Google review
We went out of way on our trip to visit the Gap. It was well worth it. The only thing I wish is that there was more clarity that there was a hike to the tri state point. We were not prepared time wise or how we were dressed. It was something we were looking forward to but were not able to take the time. Beautiful area!
Anna Zoromski-Linde — Google review
There are picnic tables along the drive to the overlook. Spectacular 180 degree view of 3 states. It's cool also that you get to see both ends of the Cumberland Gap Tunnel from Tennessee to Kentucky while standing on Virginia.
4 miles of switchbacks and hairpin turns to get to the top. Elevation of 2,440 feet.
You can drive or you can hike. Next time we will go back and hike.
Owen Cook — Google review
Beautiful park with breathtaking overlooks. Great walking trails with adequate rest areas. Bathrooms are well maintained and clean. Parking lot is large and plentiful. I would recommend going before or after the summer heat.
Adam H — Google review
Visitor Center is very clean, cool (in summer time), well decorated, and extremely helpful staff that give individual attention and help with maps and drawings if needed. There's a good sized shop inside and 2 10ish minute films to watch. Masks are a requirement for inside as of July 2022 but they provide them if you forget. Restrooms can be accessed outside not from inside Visitor Center. Top hikes and pinnacle are easily accessible from Visitor Center with plenty of parking and markers/signs.
Hannah Thornton — Google review
We had an amazing time exploring this area. What a beautiful National Park. Trails are well maintained and marked. We absolutely will come back again to explore more.
Emily Eldridge — Google review
Hadn't been to the Pinnacle since my son was probably 1 so nearly 15 years later we finally got to come back. It was a beautiful day and not very crowded like some of the other Parks. Great views and also saw some of the wildlife going up. My whole family enjoyed it. We will be back soon.
Tammy Smith — Google review
The fall foliage is in full shift, and the views are breathtaking! Go all the way to the top to the Pinnacle for spectacular panoramas. If you are on a motorcycle, your skills better be up to the task for numerous challenging hairpin switchbacks. It is worth the ride, whether you're in a car/van/truck or on a motorcycle. Don't miss it!!
Mike — Google review
A lovely area good for a quick picnic or a good hike. Absolutely gorgeous view at Pioneer Lookout at the top and the Park Rangers were very polite and helpful. Would love to come back here when I have time to do a long hike.
Magic Fidget — Google review
If you're going into Tennessee and passing by, I highly recommend the quick stop to check out this amazing view. Over 2,500 feet up, you can see three three states in one place. There is a short walk from the parking lot. Restrooms are also located at the parking area.
James — Google review
Trails are good lengths, some flat and some a little challenging. But overall, it's very beautiful for hiking. The road to Pinnacle Point is a very curvy road. But also a beautiful drive.
Lois Ditzer — Google review
Hiked from Civic Park to Sand Cave with an overnight in the camp site. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip, but this hike is not for the faint of heart.
Zacque Hitchcock — Google review
Oh my gosh! This is such a beautiful and historic American Icon. How the west was won starts here! There is a great visitors center and so many hiking options. The drive through the Gap Tunnel is so cool.
I saw wildlife and nature’s stunning vistas galore! I love it here!
Cades Cove is a valley located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that offers a scenic drive through preserved homesteads and churches, providing a glimpse into mountain life 150 years ago. The Cove's 11-mile loop allows for leisurely exploration, with opportunities to observe wildlife such as black bears along the way. Short trails provide additional access to the area's natural beauty. Take your time and soak in the history and stunning views of this popular destination.
Absolutely gorgeous! Beautiful scenery plus lots of wildlife we saw lots of deer, horses, turkey and plenty of other birds.
Jessica Peters — Google review
This was my third time being at Cades Cove in Tennessee. I've had the opportunity to see several black bears on each occasion. I got within 20 feet of one this time and got some great videos along with photos. There are also several deer along with other wildlife. The backdrop of the smoky mountains all around you is worthy of the trip as well. This is an 11 mile loop that you can drive at your own pace with several locations to pull off for photo opportunities.
Jamie Sharp — Google review
This was so much fun. Definitely bring snacks and drinks if you are going through in your car. It was such a cool experience to see how they lived. I loved getting out and going through the houses. It was also a great view of the mountains and wildlife. While we were driving through, there was a bear behind the fence, and it was awesome to see it so close. Another great thing is that a park ranger went to where the bear was spotted and made sure everyone and the bear was safe.
Ellie Wallace — Google review
One of my favorite places to go, to meditate and pray after a long week. Whether I see bears or not, I love the landscape and scenery, especially the clouds against the mountains.
Susan Shafer — Google review
A great drive though nature with beautiful sights at every turn. The loop is spectacular with trees, rapids filled streams and flowers where ever you look. The store and bicycle rental is convenient and fun to look through. They have a wide range of souvenirs and items for sale. A very peaceful place to visit or to camp.
Louis and Elaine — Google review
Beautiful place to vacation year-round,
Me and my family have been going as a tradition since the early 1950s from the hiking trails to the wildlife to having a peaceful ride around the loop, there is some thing for everyone, and I look forward to coming back every year!
Finley Martin — Google review
I wanted to see a bear so bad but I don’t think they are out too much yet. We did see lots of deer and turkey! It was a beautiful drive plus we managed to hit a quiet time so there wasn’t a ton of traffic yet either!
Holly — Google review
Many very nice sights to see! The views of the mountains are unbelievable! There are many smaller structures some dating back 200 years! Small pull offs and trails all along the way! We saw many deer, unfortunately no bears tho. The loop is one way with many sights to see! Definitely worth the drive!
David Schuwerk — Google review
When exploring the Smoky Mountain National Park, don't miss Cades Cove. It's 11-mile loop provides access to a variety of homesteads and churches that give insight to life in the mountains 150 years ago. Take your time. Enjoy the views. Read the signs. Look for wildlife. Allow yourself to be transported back in time to a much younger America.
James Aderman — Google review
This is another must visit attractions in great smoky mountains national park. This a very scenic 11 mile one way loop road that offers amazing views of the nature and wildlife. You can slowly drive along the loop road or even do biking. Cars are not allowed on Wednesday but you can bike or walk down the loop. Rest of the days cars are allowed. One can easily spend 2 to 4 hours depending on the slowness of traffic. Most of the times traffic slows down if they see any wildlife. There is a visitor center located half way the loop road where there is restroom and a small gift shop. Most of the times one can see bears, deers, turkeys, etc.,. There is also a information center at the start of the loop. This is definitely recommended.
Nareshkumar Acharya — Google review
Amazing views and chance to see wildlife! Get there early before traffic backs up too much and stop at restrooms at campground before you depart, could be long time till next restroom at visitors center.
Kent 19 — Google review
It was wonderful. We made the circle 3 times. In the first lap we enjoyed the nature and saw 2 coyotes, we started the second lap around 6:30 pm and we managed to see a black bear and lots of roe deer, and the third lap was magical because the meadows were full of fireflies. We haven't seen fireflies for a long time in our country, barely one a year and this was really magical for us. We enjoyed it, it was like being in a fairy tale. The road is 11 miles long and goes only one way, but since there is always a lot of cars, and everyone wants to see and take photo of both the scenery and animals, the first lap with few stops lasted 2 hours. We drove for almost 4 and a half hours and we are not sorry. We enjoyed it to the max. Must see for everyone.
Jelena Vujevi? — Google review
I've been wanting to go for years and it was great! Don't go in expecting to be out in under an hour. The loop is not meant to drive through fast and if you want to finish in under that, just don't go. You may see some wildlife but if people see a bear, they act ridiculous. If you're expecting to see a bear, you may want to just try a nature trail or short nearby trail. Bear sitings aren't always guaranteed.
J Hart — Google review
We had an awesome time driving through here! I came in the off season so it was slightly less crowded than usual, but still pretty busy. We saw two bears, some wild turkey, and a fox which was cool. Overall this was a super scenic drive that I would definitely recommend to anyone in the area!
Ethan Unverferth — Google review
Nice, fun loop to drive through. Daily access is super cheap and there's plenty of rest stops and bathrooms along the way. There's beautiful landscapes all around and plenty of critters abound. Just keep an eye out for the black bears, as when they show up, everyone is going to stop in their tracks and take pictures as they travel.
Sean Green — Google review
My husband and I hiked the Abrams Falls trail. The trail was absolutely beautiful and we had a wonderful time. The drive there, however, was a bit stressful. They have signs on the scenic loop saying not to stop. We got behind several people who stopped every time they saw a deer or sometimes for no reason at all. There are many areas that allow you to pull off the road to stop and look, but many people just stop in the road and no one can pass. The road is a single one way lane. We ended up taking about 30+ minutes to drive the short distance to the trail head. Leaving was even worse. So if you go, please be courteous and pull over if you want to stop to look.
Stephanie A Walker — Google review
Beautiful view. Go well fed, bring snacks for the kids, use the bathroom before you go. It's a one way loop with other cars and pulloffs. Don't stop in the road. Do stop at the visitor center, look up hours of operation and expect to spend more than an hour to make it through.
Kelly South — Google review
Breathtakingly beautiful scenery. We were hoping to see bears on our visit, but we didn't spot any this time. We enjoyed seeing deer and turkeys. The untouched vast landscapes are phenomenal. I'd highly recommend this drive to anyone.
Jennifer Sullivan — Google review
A must see scenic route! If fortunate, you’ll see wildlife. Note: sometimes it’s possible to not see any, but still give it a shot! You won’t be disappointed regardless because the scenery is breathtaking!
Jereomy Clark — Google review
I’ve been going here my entire life and it never gets old. Amazing views of scenery and wildlife. Ignore the review from the guy who said there were no restrooms on the loop, there are multiple restrooms along the loop. Check this place out.
Scottie Evans — Google review
One of our favorite places to go while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park. An easy to drive scenic loop full of beautiful nature, wildlife and history. If you are lucky you might even get to see a black bear.
Warren’s Reviews — Google review
I don’t understand the hype about driving through this valley. There are so many other beautiful areas of the park with breathtaking vistas. It is a good location if you want to see some old wood cabins and churches built by the first European settlers.
Carol matthews — Google review
Just visited in the beginning January and it was still absolutely beautiful. We even got to see some deer. Plan on spending 2 to 4 hours to see the whole loop And probably worse when it is busy. There is only one restroom I noticed on the whole loop. Definitely worth the visit.
Catherine Jones — Google review
Beautiful park and very friendly staff at the park store. We didn't see any bears because they were hibernating. We did see plenty of whitetail deer, though. Can't wait to go back in April when the bears are out.
Traveling Construction Superintendent — Google review
Always enjoy seeing the deer, foxes, bears, etc . Also, there are many rustic cabins, churches, and an old mill. Many trails to explore, a waterfall, an old cave, and many other things to see. During the warmer months, they have entertainment such as rustic music, srup, or molasses making at the visitors center at the halfway point
Philip Steen — Google review
This place is a gem!
If you end up going, don’t stop in the middle of the road!! There are places to pull off the road literally everywhere, yet folks were still stopping smack dab in the middle. It’s a one-way loop, and when you stop, you hold everyone up. Don’t be that person.
Keith Lawler — Google review
Cades cove always delivers awesome beautiful trip sad I didn't see a bear but very beautiful also if you visit please don't allow your children to write on things
Michelle Abbott — Google review
Beautiful place to visit especially if you have kids who love exploring and seeing animals. I do recommend going during the week and at lunchtime or later afternoon. Those have been the slowest times and we were able to explore without feeling rushed!
Kaitlyn Lawhorn — Google review
4.7
(2922)
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4.5
(5599)
Tennessee 37882, USA
20
Tail Of The Dragon rentals
Lodging
Outdoor Activities
Modest lodging inside a national forest offering low-key quarters with kitchens, BBQs & pool tables.
The ridge was awesome. Big garage and pool table. Parked 8 bikes easy! Clean linens and bathroom. The jacuzzis seemed nice but never used it. I'll be back for sure!
Dustin Ray — Google review
It's a great location in the middle of endless curves, mountain trails, and fishing.
Large garage to put group motorcycles is a huge asset.
We even had a hot tub at the end of the day to warm up and relax muscles in.
House works well for groups with 4 bedrooms in the treetops house, but needs some TLC on windows.
Looking forward to coming back again someday.
Steve Grody — Google review
I can't begin to describe how perfect this place is.
The location, the amenities... I will update when the trip is done.
Todd Bradford — Google review
The owner, property, cabin and garage are fantastic. Best place to stay and we are already planning to return.
Adrian Best — Google review
Great place for a large group to stay. Nice amenities and close to tons of great roads.
Nelson DeSousa — Google review
Great place to stay. All the amenities you could possibly want. Excellent location.
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a picturesque, single-lane road that spans over 5.5 miles and winds through the beautiful mountainside. Along the way, visitors can enjoy views of well-preserved farms and take hikes to scenic waterfalls. The route offers an immersive experience into nature's beauty and provides an ideal getaway from city life.
Beautiful place to visit and enjoy the wildlife and see the historic buildings.
Timothy Jackson — Google review
Wow! Nature at its best. Scenic drive alongside beautiful creeks. Traffic is usually heavy and the drive being one way, there are delay’s for sure if a bear 🐻 is spotted . Lot of trails on the way and picturesque overlooks. Depending on what you are interested the drive may last from 1 -2 or 4-5 hour. Roaring fork is highly recommended !! Don’t miss it !
Rishikesh Nalapur — Google review
David Branam — Google review
This is a must visit attraction in great smoky mountains national park, Tennessee. Recommended for nature lovers. This a very scenic loop one-way drive of around 5.5 mile long and surrounded by amazing nature display. One can see streams, mills, old cabins, etc. The drive may take around 1-2 hours. There are also trails to rainbow and grotto falls and other nature trails located along this drive.
Nareshkumar Acharya — Google review
Stunning views, multiple picturesque vista points, serene, feels so close to nature that you don’t want to leave this place. Don’t miss this drive to get the feeling of what Smoky Mountains offers. River streams, Hiking trails, Tall Trees, cloudy peaks… Do whatever you enjoy the most, this place has everything !!
Piyush Bhatt — Google review
Such a great way to experience The Smoky mountains with minimal hiking/walking. There's a lot of history to see as well. Plenty of pull-off spots at the key points to be able to get out and look around, there are a couple good overlooks, as well as numerous places along the stream.
Highly recommend this place at the end of a long day, a nice way to unwind and take in the relaxing scenery.
SMO is a well-renowned rafting company that offers some of the best white water rafting in the area. With options including level 3 and 4 rapids, as well as beautiful scenery and perfect weather, this is an experience not to be missed.
Amazing experience! Our guide was Miami and he was great the whole way. He clearly had done the route many times before and easily guided us through the level 3 and 4 rapids without anybody going overboard. The weather was perfect and the scenery was beautiful. The run was a total of about 2 hours and was a ton of fun. Highly recommend!
Taylor Murphy — Google review
We’re from Ukraine and lot of our friends from USA recommended us this company. Smokey mountain outdoors rafting was the best place I got unforgettable emotions for whole my life. We were so pleased with my husband with all services from booking to trip. We had an Upper trip and it was funny. Especially when we pass the falls. Our guide was very polite, explained all the nuances and we got an amazing rafting experience. Everything was safely and comfortable. I truly recommend this place for visiting for everyone. You'll be happy with the whole process, promise you!
BUBLIKMUA makeup artist — Google review
SO AMAZING!!! ❤️..I booked our group here. I'm so glad I did. We had 32 people, and everyone had an amazing time. It went smoothly. Even the little ones had a blast. We did the upper, and I was nervous for my 11 yr old grandkids. They loved it so much! Our guide was amazing, California girl (Ace). Thank you so much for showing the kids a great time. They talked about it for 2 days.. I wanna thank all the guides.. Everyone loved them.. we're booking our next trip and we've decided to come here again!!!
Debbie Frickey — Google review
Decided to take our boys rafting for the first time. This is the perfect river for someone who has never been white water rafting. It has good rapids but nothing that will scare the pants off newbies.
Christopher Guilford — Google review
Amazing!! So worth the price. It was cold out and very windy but it was such a great experience. I suggest to not take lazy family members as It’s a good amount of physical work (6 miles worth of rafting). My family got stuck with a family who did not participate and we ended up doing all the work & the instructor was not too fond of them either. Overall, it was very fun and we are definitely doing it again next time we visit TN!
Bee M — Google review
An extremely well organized and disciplined company. The kindness shown by the Security Staff as i got down from our car and he saw me limping was commendable. He immediately asked me to get in and allowed us to park closest possible to the Office. This speaks volumes about their commitment. Even the time slots allotted were followed perfectly. Our guide Ms. Tia was phenomenal. She looked after us and our grandchildren with dedication and tenderness. It’s much appreciated. Overall an unforgettable experience. To those visiting this area make this spot as the number one place for your River Rafting experience.
Bharat Bhandare — Google review
MUST DO!! This was definitely the highlight of our trip. We had so much fun. My group was made up of people 10 years old through 55 years. It was great for all ages (Upper Pigeon Forge but not the extreme one). Our guide Tia was great. Very knowledgeable, funny, most importantly safe! We got to jump out of the raft and swim a little on a calm part of the river. My 10 year old even got to ride on the front of the raft with his feet hanging river through rapids. All though I was a little scared about that, he had so much fun and was completely safe. Would definitely recommend for all ages.
Alycia Alvarez — Google review
First time rafters here and we were super happy with how it all went. Be sure to check in with plenty of time as they have a gift shop and you will want time to get on sunblock and use the facilities. You can rent a small locker for $2 otherwise leave most items in your vehicle. Upper Pigeon trip was not too hard or scary even for kids but it was still very exciting and beautiful. Josh was our guide and he was great! You can wear caps but sunglasses need a strap unless you don't mind potentially losing them.
Theresa C — Google review
This is a MUST DO! When we got there we were like omg how are they gonna handle all these people? The service was very well managed. We were taken out for our float trip in a very well managed timely fashion. SMO has approximately 90 tours guides for the visitors to not have to wait very long. They have lockers available for $2 if you need to put your car keys up. They also sell waterproof packs and have a gift shop available. There are a few food trucks available at the location if you get hungry. Also in the bathrooms they have changing rooms, and showers available not to mention blow dryers for the women. Our tour guide Alex was great! Would do this again without a doubt if back in the area. Definitely if given the chance "ride the bull" aka on the front of the raft with your legs over the raft. My nephew who is 13 had the time of his life on this vacation.
#ALEX
Michaela Bennett — Google review
Ya'll have to try this at least once! Because after that you'll want to go again and again!
When we went (4.6.24) the water was cold, but that is the only con I can think of. The experience grossly out weighs it being cold. Plus don't like the cold plan for a summer trip.
Our guide was very knowledgeable and guided us safely down the river. I believe his name was Josh but I'm bad with names...
I highly recommend checking them out! I'm definitely going to be going back!
Joella Mosley — Google review
This was a great experience for our family during our Spring Break vacation! Prior to booking, the lady who answered the phone was very helpful answering all our questions. Getting prepared to board the buses and was very organized. Our guide, Nila, helped all of us to feel totally comfortable before starting, and she was very entertaining. The kids, and my husband and I had a great time. The water was freezing, but it was really awesome!
Jill Casey — Google review
Great time with my daughter on the lower section. Because the water was moving so fast we were actually taken up river a bit so as to extend our trip. Judo was a stellar guide! We will definitely be back for the upper section. Worth every penny.
Matt Dubya — Google review
We were a party of 9, all first time rafters and did the Upper river. We were in two boats (6 & 3) but were within sight and sound the whole trip. This was one of our favorite activities done for the week. It was so exciting, fun, and safe. We did not see a single person flipped into the water and there were lots of rafts. Our guides Geoff and Garett were amazing! The entire event was so smooth... Check-in, meeting the guides, gearing up, riding the bus, getting on the water, riding the river, departure and equipment removal all we're so seamless. We loved our experience and highly encourage it to all.
Stormy Matte — Google review
We did the Upper & Lower River experiences and both were equally great! Our tour guides were Tom & Slim and they made the day so fun. Staff was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions we had about the Smokies while we were floating down river. Great experience and rapids weren’t anything too crazy, would recommend this experience to families with kids as well.
Abigail & Blake Freeman — Google review
We loved river rafting. Our 4 year old had a blast, this was one of the only places that allowed little ones to enjoy rafting. Lauren our guide was awesome and super sweet. We had a blast!
Maggie Ruiz — Google review
It was first time for many people in my group. We all enjoyed. Guide was very good. When we went it was class 3 rapid at one place. Rest of the places are two or below. It for kids and old age people it awesome. Lot of parking and very well managed.
Raghukumar S — Google review
I went here leading a university group over spring break. The management was patient as I needed to communicate things to the group before making the decision about purchasing photos and was very accommodating when I needed a receipt for providing a tip to their guides. The guides we rafted with was Josh and Miami, which were both a hoot and provided us with an amazing rafting experience, letting us bull ride and spin through some rapids. All my students who participated in our spring break trip said this was the highlight of their trip. Thank you for this amazing experience and we will most definitely be coming back again in the future.
Courtney Johnson — Google review
It was a fabulous and fun time. Ziggy was the best guide ever and such a great sport! We were 3 Seniors with some mobility issues and Ziggy was so patient and helpful! Recommend for an anyone looking for a fun day.
Barbara Frazier — Google review
THE BEST!
We had an amazing time rafting the UPPER PIGEON. This was the first rafting trip for my 8yr son, and I had booked a lower pigeon. We got there and talked at the check-in office - got it changed to upper pigeon - the best decision - my son thoroughly enjoyed it!
Staff at SMO are extremely friendly and supportive of any changes (availability and best interest).
It was a packed day, but they handled it well - they are very well organized and structured, a big shout out for people at parking, at the check-in office, they help run the place efficiently. Our trip guide Tyler was phenomenal. Took approx 90 minutes for the upper region, and I believe it is the same for the lower region, too.
They have approx 84 tour guides onsite, very professional - ensure the trip is fun and safe for everyone. Ample parking, clean amenities onsite - shower, bathroom, changing station, locker ($2), etc. are well maintained.
The only downside is the pricing of the pictures taken, which is a bit expensive for what you get.
It's a MUST try activity for all ages, and these guys are absolute pros and make the entire trip fun!
Madan Nagaraju — Google review
what a perfect adventure. Our guide was Bart, he was GREAT! I highly recommend this company. This was my fourth time white water rafting and this place has been the best so far. they are very organized.
I wore crocs with the strap (sport mode) and they stayed on the whole time.
Poly F — Google review
Me, my husband, and two kids (9 and 14) rafted with Stoney today. The river was pretty calm but it was a great intro to rafting for my boys. Stoney was awesome, super knowledgeable, and probably the best of the bunch! ;) we’d definitely come back!
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting with "Rafting In the Smokies" on the Pigeon River, just a short drive from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Maggie Valley. Choose between the upper tour for adventurous rapids or the lower tour for a more family-friendly experience. The guides are praised for their great communication and informative yet fun approach. After your exhilarating ride, take advantage of on-site showers to freshen up.
We had the best time. Our rafting guide Jabels and Aaron were awesome and had a great sense of humor. If we ever come back to the area I would definitely go back again!
Natasha Dornbush — Google review
We did the “upper” rafting tour. Which consists of level 3 & 4 rapids. The upper is for those who like adventure/challenge/adrenaline dumps.
The “lower” rafting tour is more suited for families with small children and/or elderly people who are not usually physically active. The lower consists of level 1 & 2 rapids, with more “flat” water.
Our rafting guide was Heather and she was great! Just listen to your rafting guide and you will have a fun and safe time! And yes, you will have to row a paddle but they will teach you how.
Alia Acala — Google review
Everyone there was super nice, friendly, and welcoming. The rope course had different levels for each person’s comfortability. The guides for the rope course made sure to explain the rules and that they could assist throughout the whole course. There is a chance for rope blisters, but the staff had first aid prepared. To avoid blisters, one could ask for some gloves. The guides for the zip lining were very experienced and could show off their tricks on the line. It was cool to see and a great experience!
Terri Tesch — Google review
Amazing experience credit to our guid Patrick. He gave us a tailored experience with more excitement than the others. Hands down a great guy. Everything was organized, safe and fun. Will definitely return!
Laura Richardson — Google review
So much fun for our family! Our youngest is 12 and didn't have a problem with the rapids at all. All of the staff is super friendly and the guides playfully banter with each other as the groups go down the river. Our guide Elias was awesome! HIGHLY recommend you go with this rafting group!
Kara — Google review
We've gone rafting in the Pigeon River for several years and this year was the best, it was also our first time with 'Rafting in the Smokies'. All the guides get along great, good communication and an informative fun time. Isabella was 10/10 and deserves a raise. 👏 Overall I feel like it was more efficiently ran and a smooth process for checking in/getting back with this company. Bring your water shoes, and a change of clothes. There are also showers here for afterwards!
Crystal Comfort — Google review
Lexi was our Rafting Guide and she was amazing. Lock your feet in and follow all instructions from your guide. Zip lining was John and Eric, and they were a blast! Highly recommended!
Scotty Q — Google review
This was our second time to go white water rafting as a family and everyone had a wonderful time.
Our guide was great and answered am off our questions. The rapids were mostly class 2 but we did guy a couple class 4's along the way.
We also went Ziplining as part of a combo deal we bought. The Ziplining was good, not great. The family felt rushed through the course.
I am still giving the entire experience 5 stars because we enjoyed ourselves that much overall.
Brandon Pratt — Google review
It's my first time doing it with my family and it was awesome. Went there 08/09/23 rafting time 1:00pm-2:30pm, our guide was Brad, he is fun and knowledgeable about the waters. He even gave some useful tips to my son as his co-captain for the boat. A definitely must do when you visit Tennessee.
Pia Rivera — Google review
Great experience. We had our kids out for their first time. Stanley and Lars explained safety and put them at ease. Super friendly and patient. Great experience and beautiful river views. Food nearby or picnic tables for packed lunches.
Wortham Boyle — Google review
Had a great time in our rafting trip. Our guide B was awesome and made the trip even more fun. She asked if we wanted the wild ride, or the regular. My teens opted for the wild ride and it was a blast. Splashed everywhere, bumping up and down , and even taking a swim in the (very cold) river.
Nicole Yull — Google review
Amazing experience! My fiancé and I had never been whitewater rafting until yesterday. Koda was our guide. He was very friendly, funny and knowledgeable about the area and whitewater rafting. He was easy to talk to as well and recommended tasty pizza at a restaurant in Gatlinburg after we asked what restaurants in the surrounding areas had gluten free food. The experience surpassed our expectations and was such a blast! Highly recommend to anyone that’s considering the adventure. It’s worth it! And from hearing conversations from other groups, it appears that everyone is in great hands regardless of the guide they get! They all seem very experienced which makes a difference if you feel a little nervous/anxious trying something new.
Ashley Jackson — Google review
TRENT was the most incredible guide!! Our entire group (kids were 5, 10, and 13!) had an absolute blast. He was fun, funny, knowledgeable and overall just a great person. You’d be so lucky to have him! All the other staff was patient and helpful. This is definitely the company you want to raft with! Hope to see you in GR Trent! You rock!
Jennifer Linski — Google review
Fantastic experience! Our guide was Hobbit and he was highly skilled and entertaining. The rapids ranged from 1-4 and were lots of fun. Definitely would recommend this company! All of the raft groups were having a great time.
Shelby Dillon — Google review
We had an amazing time with Doug! He was super friendly and informative. Felt like he made it his mission to show us the best time possible. Everyone there was great and took care of us. 100% recommend Rafting In The Smokies!!
Located in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum is a must-visit destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs. This 38,000-sq.-ft. museum houses over 300 rare motorcycles along with related exhibits, photos, and memorabilia. The museum gained fame through TV shows like American Pickers on the History Channel. Visitors can explore a unique collection of motorcycles dating from the early days to present times, including one-of-a-kind pieces that come with fascinating stories.
How anyone can consider anything less than 5 stars is beyond me. This is an incredible ode to American motoring history.
Not only is this one of the finest curated motorcycle museums, the staff are just as excited to be there as you are. We visited on a Sunday and even got to chat with the owner, Matt. What an incredible experience that was chatting with him about the collection and watching him fire up one the bikes.
If you care about American history, be sure to consider becoming a lifetime donor before leaving. It's exactly what I did and will never regret that decision. I know the money will only go to preserving history for us all to enjoy!
Your memory and legacy lives on, Dale. May you forever rest in peace.
Ryan Richmond — Google review
We visited the museum for Father's Day. I was very impressed with both the quality and quantity of motorcycles on display. They started one of the car's on display and two of the motorcycles on display while we were there. It seems almost everything on display is in running order! And they will start anything on display if you want to see and hear it run. We had a great time and I hope to visit again. Despite spending a couple of hours, I think I missed some of the displays. There is so much to see that it is difficult not to get distracted and miss something. All in all, a great museum if you like motorcycles.
m w — Google review
So I’m not a motorcycle person in the least bit but this was cool. Especially if you like history! They have so many bikes in here. Most of them run and they will start them for you. So many knowledgeable people walking about that will tell you the best stories. Andy was the best to hear stories from. I could have listened to him all day. If you’re near and the weather is crappy outside I suggest giving it a shot. I highly suggest if you’re a motorcycle fan or gear head.
bmille88 — Google review
I knew it would be awesome, but WOW!!
If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, you absolutely have to visit.
You could honestly spend a full day, if not more, exploring everything.
So many irreplaceable treasures of motorcycle history.
The staff is very knowledgeable and will start many of the bikes for you as they explain all their incritracies. We will return for sure!
Steve Wealing — Google review
This place is absolutely incredible! Whether you're a motorcycle enthusiast or not, you can't help but to be amazed by the walk through motorbike history. So many beautiful pieces, a wonderful staff full of knowledge and a passion for the motorcycles they work with, I honestly can't say enough good things about our experience here. We can't wait to come back!
If you are lucky enough to meet Andy, be grateful, we had such a great time talking with him, learning about the bikes and about his incredible life story. He truly completed the experience for us 💛
Nainsi McK — Google review
I love this place, the Mecca of vintage motorcycles. This place is huge and you can spend hours just walking around. They had a couple tour guys that would walk around talking about what made bikes special and manufactures. They even started a couple of the bikes up. One tour guide name was Andy and extremely knowledgeable on the technical aspects of the bikes. He told me I gave him the stink eye when he said something about Harley Davidson haha.
Rick Brown — Google review
This place was really an incredible place to experience. They had multiple bikes from every single era from the very first one to present. If u like motorcycles then I highly recommend u paying them a visit. Heck pay a visit if motorcycles are not ur thing..the history and seeing how they've evolved since the first build is incredible and there's so much rich history!
bridget meyer — Google review
Absolutely a piece of Americana and a must see for anyone whether a motorcycle fan or not. What a rich history of innovation and human achievement that lead us to the Industrial powerhouse that we are.
For those who are fans of American Pickers, there is an episode filmed at this location because of Mike Wolfe's relationship with the location.
Jeremy Finney — Google review
An amazing find. Took us about 4 hours to look round. Staff are welcoming, knowledgeable and at hand if you have any questions. All bikes run, some are started throughout the day. My favourite was the motorcycle found in a wall !! It’s in a beautiful setting with well kept grounds and plenty of seating.
Alison Lavis — Google review
It's a 5 star collection that just needs a little more organized curating to warrant 5stars. I went with my husband who follows the you tube channel and the associations he has with other you tubers. I am not a motorcycle enthusiast but found this museum to be so unique and truly peaked my curiosity regarding all things motorcycle! From bikes with motors to the present day. Carrier pigeon motorcycle. Especially interesting are so many one-of-a-kind motorcycles. So many stories with each one. The other thing beyond amazing is the museum guides starting up 107 year old motorcycles and telling you all about them. I loved visiting the museum and highly recommend the trip.
Susan — Google review
Very clean and nice museum. Very friendly staff also. This is probably the nicest motorcycle museum that I have seen. Two levels full of motorcycles and “Money” Doug will happily crank you one up. If you love motorcycles then you need to stop and go through this place. You will be amazed at what you can see.
Doreen Vaughn — Google review
Awesome experience. Seeing the evolution of the American made motorcycle. Displays show what the motorcycle lifestyle was like through history. Most of bikes run and they will start one if you ask. Don't know if they still do the burnouts like when the owner was still alive.
I enjoyed reading the owners history and his love of all things with a engine. His museum was a labor of love.
Thanks to those that are keeping his dream alive.
Annette Nichols — Google review
Absolutely great place to see and experience the history of motorcycles. Very well set up with lots of reading to go with the displays. Everything runs they will even start some up while you're there. One supported this place for years but this was my first actual visit. I was so happy to see all of the history.
James Overdorff — Google review
If you are ever in Maggie Valley or even the Gatlinburg area and you love motorcycles and the history of motorcycles, be sure to take the time to visit Wheels through time. I’ve been wanting to go for many years and finally had the opportunity and what a great experience. Once I entered the museum the “ace” immediately caught my attention since I’m a big fan of early motorcycles and this is one beautiful piece of work. While looking at every detail I was approached by an employee whom I later found to be (Andy) and he asked if I new the history to which I replied no I have only heard about them and before you know it he began to tell me how this bike began and within minutes through his story telling he captivated the attention of nearly 20 or so people. I had only walked in the museum moments earlier and after my first 20 minutes I knew it would be a great experience. All the staff were very friendly and helpful. I’m looking forward to my next visit and trying to coordinate efforts to have some friends from Florida meet us here next time around. Thank you for your hospitality and the museum is amazing, so much history.
Keith Lincoln — Google review
We are members of the museum and have been for years. Proud to support. We were there this time to see the Motorcycle Cannonball come thru. It never disappoints, and neither does the museum.
Melinda Franklin — Google review
This is by far the best museum I've ever been to! I lost count on how many bikes I saw and heard starting and running! So cool! I met the owner, Matt, who was so personable and knowledgeable. Made me feel like I've known him forever. He was just making his was around saying hi starting bikes and sharing his what seemed to be unlimited knowledge. Will definitely return many more times in the future.
nick oetker — Google review
Best Motorcycle Museum in North America.
This really is the coolest place to go if you love all things motorcycle. The displays are absolutely amazing. The way they put the bike out fantastic. If you like motorcycles you must visit this museum.
Andy Commons in Canada — Google review
An absolute gem. Everyone is super helpful and incredibly knowledgeable. Vintage, mostly running motorcycles organized by type and Era. The largest selection of WWII service bikes I've ever heard of, let alone seen! Literally every Era and type of racing is covered. If you have any interest in motorcycles or history coming here is a must!
Russell Montgomery — Google review
My best friends father always talked about this place and always told me to go here, after losing him to a motorcycle accident last November i made it a goal to visit as soon as possible. I have to say this place is a must stop for anyone remotely into motorcycles or cars or anything with an engine for that matter. Museum is amazing. Not far from gatlingburg / pigeon-forge area and the drive from there to the museum is beautiful. I will definitely be visiting again in the near future.
Shane Best — Google review
Have always loved this place... So sad the man who started this museum is gone now but his son is doing a bang up job in his place... Highly recommend when anywhere near Maggie Valley... Well worth the the visit ...
William Dean — Google review
The museum was well laid out. Matt was very friendly and took time to answer questions . You didn’t feel like he didn’t want to talk. It made the whole trip worth it. The wife and I also got to experience the wall of death. What a show.
Steve Burker — Google review
If you have a passion for motorcycles this is a place to go !! Their staff is very very knowledgeable. If you have any questions they will answer them! Beautiful bikes all through the place !! A lot of history in one place!!
This vast park with 25 miles of trails features a planetarium, a pioneer museum & fishing spots.
We came with a homeschooling group to learn about the wolves and attend a planetarium showing. The rangers in charge of the wolves are extremely knowledgeable and the planetarium was a very interesting show. We got to take a walk around between the two events; the nature surrounding the park is beautiful! Overall, a wonderful day (despite the weather)!
Sara Smith — Google review
Beautiful location with lots of exhibits that allow for exploration opportunities to entertain both young and old visitors. There are some accommodations for physically handicapped individuals but the terrain is a bit challenging and some of the paths difficult to access. It is a very calm atmosphere but parking can be challenging to find and park navigation/map a bit challenging to follow.
Overall it’s a nice, cheap place to stop for a couple hours but I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone that has physical limitations making it difficult to ambulate.
Ashley Stevens — Google review
$7/vehicle (more for buses), planetarium is $6/person, children 5 and under free with parent. Nature programs $3/ person or more for a 2-hour tour. Barge rides also cost pp. Beautiful park on a mountain, excellent trails, nice buildings, zip line seems to be a resident contractor business. Serious discounts for military i.d. Wolf pack is fed around 2 pm. Wolves have a nice large compound. Bobcats are also in a nice large commons for the two brothers. Planetarium is small but seems new, seats are reclined, very comfortable. Do not go late, they open 10 min before show time and lock doors at one minute past! On weekends there are food trucks. Membership probably worth it! That includes free planetarium and Barge, iirc. On approach drive, stay left at the fork or you will wind up in the Eastman company's private rec area.
Heather Preston — Google review
Wonderful wonderful place to visit! I went when I was a child and now my daughter has been able to go. The gift shop is also a win win all proceeds go to help the park and animal's there. It is just a wonderful family place good for a day visit.
Jessica Adkins — Google review
Went here for a Friday hike with my husband, easy to moderate trails. The wolves were feeding which was kind of cool. Free for veterans.
Samantha Nelson — Google review
Nice place with a lot of trails from easy to hard. We had limited time so only did a small walk along the dam and along the lake. There is a nature area with animals such as deer, gray wolves, and a variety of raptors.
Sharon Rumley — Google review
Very nice trails! The building at the entrance of the trails is great for souvenirs and a quick restroom trip. The animal sanctuaries are well kept and great for if you’re bringing kids. The fire tower was fun and looked pretty up to date while still on the rustic side. There are a few places on the trails that provide views. Will definitely be going back!
Wanderlilly Taylor — Google review
Spent the afternoon rock climbing well maintained sport routes and top-rope routes. Then read beside the lake. We made a spontaneous stop here after visiting the Smokies and were blown away by how beautiful and secluded this park felt. The nature center and animal enclosures were incredible. Never thought we'd see such happy looking gray wolves this far south! The animal exhibits were accessible and very cute. We plan to come back tomorrow to climb the rest of the routes and say hey to all the turtles 😊 🐢
Mitchell Skopic — Google review
Absolutely beautiful area. Went on a clear, sunny December morning with kids ages 2, 6, and 8, when it was 32°. The barge and ropes course were winterized but we nearly had the whole place to ourselves and got to see bobcats, foxes, gray wolves, and various raptors all up close. Gave it 4 stars because the website was not clear about which things were closed for the winter and which were available year-round (the welcome / visitor center was closed -- disappointing! but the gift shop was open). The person taking parking entrance fees had run out of park maps. Also, the credit card machine in the gift shop wasn't working well and took 10 minutes till it worked, and we ended up getting overcharged when it finally went through and at that point didn't bother pressing for a refund (aka more time fighting with the credit card machine). (An elderly person was running the gift shop at the time.) We didn't make it to the Planetarium this trip so we only paid the parking entrance fee ($7). Would love to go back in the spring or summer to do the ropes course. Based on our winter experience and a bunch of little reasons above, I would almost give it 3 stars, but I'm trying to give them the benefit of the doubt that everything is run much better during the warmer months.
Emily Smith — Google review
One of the prettiest places I have went and hiked/walked! It cost $7 to get in but there is so much to see and do. The city of Kingsport maintains this park beautifully and provides a great map to help you navigate the grounds.
Miranda White — Google review
Park is in the middle of improvement, lots of trees down around the animal areas and gift shop. Hiking trails were well maintained.
The adventure course is now closed.
Dogs are not allowed in areas with animals.
John W — Google review
Awesome place to hike or bike. The views from the fire tower are beautiful except for looking over the water treatment area.
Animal habitat area is really interesting to work thru.
Gift shop is very small with little to choose from compared to other parks' gift shops I've visited.
Regenia Shepherd — Google review
Great little nature center. Several snake species. Raptors and a very healthy and active wolf pack.
Georgeous bay views. So glad that we checked this place out. Highly recommended.
Devin Bunch — Google review
Great place to visit with the family!! They have a lot of exhibits to enjoy for the small parking/entry fee of $7 for the entire car(not per person) to the park. Additional cost for the barge ride and planetarium, and a small obstacle coarse (I'm not sure if it was open, though).
J Willi — Google review
One of our favorite places for a nature walk. The kids love the barge ride and planetarium.
Rebecca Wilson Real Estate — Google review
We enjoyed your short visit here and glad the dogs could come along. There are restrictions to where dogs are allowed but we wanted to take a short hike on the lakeside trail. It was $7 for entry. We say a few beaver dams.
Thomas Nguyen — Google review
Bays Mountain Park is a great place for hiking, learning about nature and local history, they have wonderful children's educational programs. My wife and I really love hiking there.
Kenneth Sours — Google review
A perfect place to spend the day enjoying the serenity of nature! There are lots of hiking trails and beautiful views.
Chadwick Dunford — Google review
The nature center is great and has tons of cool stuff for children and adults alike! The wildlife exhibits are both indoor and outdoor and include wolves, birds, deer, fish, and a reptile house. My only complaint is that the trail up to the fire tower is confusing to follow at times even with an online map.
David Buckett — Google review
4.7
(2970)
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4.5
(546)
853 Bays Mountain Park Rd, Kingsport, TN 37660, USA
We had such a great time on our white water rafting adventure. All of the raft guides were great, and you could tell that everyone loved what they were doing. J was a great raft guide, and was super knowledgeable of the area. We loved all of the rapids, and had such a great time on the river. I would definitely do this tour again, and would recommend French Broad Adventures to anyone looking to add a little bit of adrenaline to your trip.
Sutton Holobyn — Google review
This was our first time white water rafting & had the best time! So much so that we want to plan more trips just for rafting! Jim was a great guide, calm, gave great instruction & encouragement, & good advice for other places to visit in the country for rafting. The weather & water was perfect, we stopped off for a snack & also let us jump off a rock right into the water which felt great! We got an opportunity to get off the raft and float down one small rapid which was also great & felt safe. Highly recommend this company to anyone in the area! Everyone was just so nice & knowledge. Felt very safe with them.
Amber S — Google review
We had to choose the kid calm white water rafting adventure because my daughter is 5. To charge us $250 for a family of 4 plus tip is ROBBERY for what we rafted ...seriously it was a lake and completely flat (see picture). There were 3 tiny/short/easy rapids for the entire 2 hour boat ride. They mentioned people tube down it to give you an idea of how gentle it is. Don't waste your money! We had a much better time tubing in Cherokee (and experienced much larger rapids in a tube)!
Melissa Wade — Google review
Went for a calm water tour and it was a great relaxing way to spend the afternoon. They provided splash gear which is essentially high end rain gear and way exceeded expectations. Probably the best gear I've ever been provided rafting. For once I would say weather would not shy me away from running with this crew. Rain or shine you're going to have a great time. It was only 50 deg today and we had smaller children and they even stayed warm. If you forget something they have a great store with everything from clothes to water shoes, to water socks and it's all quality items that aren't throw away when you're done. Very impressed!
Manfred Schreyer — Google review
We had the best time with our rafting trip. Everyone was so nice and professional, they spoke very highly of the owners and how well they were treated. Richard was our comic/host, and Evan was our guide. We could not have asked for a better time. The trip was so much fun, they made a great lunch, and kept everyone safe. We will go again!
Alan Lipscomb — Google review
We made the right choice going with French Broad Adventures. Did the half day w/ lunch with our family (girls 15&12 and son 8). It was plenty for them to introduce them to whitewater rafting. They are ready to go again. The entire staff was friendly and helpful and our guide (Tim) was the best! Of course expect to pay $25-50 if you want a photo(s) (they have a photographer stationed below one of the class three rapids). Our photos turned out great - can’t wait to hang it on the wall!
Gretchen Highfield — Google review
We had an awesome time!! We did the 1/2 day with lunch and it was a blast. We had the opportunity to rock jump and swim before lunch. The experience isn’t just about the rafting it’s also the guides. Glen was so knowledgeable and made us feel very comfortable. Pete..so many jokes!! I laughed so hard (bring a joke with you to share). And Amy, our bus driver, amazing skills.
Andrea — Google review
Never went white water rafting before but decided to go with family. It went very nice. Our guide was name Ellie and she was amazing! She was very humorous, informative, patient and guided us all the way, safety. Very fun adventure went on the half day tour (3-4hrs). The course was great for beginner thrill-seekers or anyone interested in trying something new. It was affordable and fun. I would recommend it to people of all ages. Will be back to try out the other courses :D
I Simon — Google review
The most amazing time of my life, this was by far the best experience of zip lining. Jason and Anya for fun, informative and a blast to be around. We hade a great group. Thank you sooooo much for an unforgettable adventure.
A ?AE Kryptonite? E — Google review
French Broad Adventures was great. The staff was extraordinarily helpful and professional. They really took the time to make sure the trip was special for each person.
The river guides are very knowledgeable and friendly.
We did a half day trip with class 2 & 3 rapids. The river itself was fun. My 10 year old daughter now lists it as best experience of her life.
I would highly encourage anyone looking to raft the French Broad to start with French Broad Adventures.
Neil Kennedy — Google review
We have been going back to French Broad Adventures for 11 years now with our high school youth group, while down for Montreat Youth Conference: and we love it every time! Very friendly staff, knowledgeable guides, and great service. Our kids love rafting down the French Broad with these guides who obviously love what they do! Looking forward to seeing y'all next summer! Ask for Shawn!
Robert Phillips — Google review
We took advantage of both the white water rafing and the zip line your. The location was well marked, the store area was clean and organized, there were changing stalls and bags for wet clothes at the ready. The guides were very personable and knowledgeable of the area. Highly recommended this company !
Stephanie Richards — Google review
An enjoyable whitewater rafting trip. It was quite chilly in the morning considering it was late October and their final week of the season running the trips. Up to class 3 rapids made for a pretty easy going ride. I sat up front though, and was soaked the whole time. Guides were great.
Tara Clapper — Google review
This place is so much fun, The staff was amazing and very helpful with all of our booking needs. The bus ride to the river to get on the rafts was the best safety talk i ever had on top of all the absolutely hilarious dad jokes told by Richard, he really could have a second career as a comedian. Once we got to the boat launch Richard gave us a safety brief then told us which guide we were going to be with for this trip. We were in J’s group, between the awesome history and jokes, we had a great time! Would definitely recommend and would definitely come back. We felt safe and like dare devils at the same time, I personally recommend jumping off the rock it was very fun, and when they tell you you can get out and swim i recommend that too. if you don’t like getting splashed a lot then don’t go in the front you will definitely get splashed. anywhere in the boat you will get splashed but especially in the front. Thanks to all the great staff! can’t wait to come back sometime
mia — Google review
Booked the whitewater rafting and zip lining. Had the best time ever. Shawn was the best river guide ever!!!! If we ever come back again we’re def booking with Shawn. He was very knowledgeable, funny, and made the experience great.
Paris and Vivian the zip lining guides were also great and good at keeping the group engaged.
Nerys Turcios — Google review
My family and I did white water rafting. What a fun time! I can't say enough great things about this company. While we waited we looked around the gift shop which had cute shirts, sweatshirts, hats, coozies, snacks, drinks, ice cream, etc. There were tables outside to enjoy the views while waiting and to listen to the safety meeting prior to departing. I felt well prepared and in good hands. There is a short bus ride to get to the river and the trip lead was funny, full of jokes. Our guide was Losty and she was absolutely wonderful! We were in great hands. The river was beautiful and the cool water felt great. There was the perfect amount of rapids and then parts of calm to enjoy the views and relax. There was a spot where we stopped and we could jump off a rock in the water for a swim. We stopped another time for a snack and a drink of water or lemonade. All in all it was the perfect day and our family can't wait to do it again. I would recommend French Broad Adventures for white water rafting to anyone and everyone!
The next day we did the zip lining with guides Olivia and Avani. I was a little nervous as it was my first time. Our guides were great at alleviating my fears and I loved zip lining! The guides were both funny and they kept us entertained as we went through the course. We really enjoyed our trip through the trees. I would recommend this course to anyone who has never zip lined before. I have spoken to others that have zip lined and this course has a great braking system that seems easier than other courses that I've heard of. It was a lot of fun!
French Broad Adventures has a lot of other activities that I can't wait to try out. Truly a great place for a wonderful adventure.
Christy K — Google review
My family had a great time rafting down the French Broad River with Calvin as our raft guide. He had a lot of rafting experience, was very knowledgable of the river and made the trip extra fun. We booked the half day trip and had time to stop at a jumping ledge, float around in the river and enjoy a snack.
Teresa cody — Google review
Best water experience ever! We booked ziplining and rafting. Rafting was amazing; we had a superb guide, Jim. The weather was chilly with river and low water level. Still a wonderful experience overall.
USA Raft Adventure Resort offers a thrilling experience on the Nolichucky Gorge with expert guides like Walker and Loren. The Lower Nolichucky trip provides a different but fun adventure, with a beautiful primitive campground at Red Banks take out. The friendly and helpful staff, including Dale and Riff, make for an enjoyable stay in accommodations like the Love Shack. While Take Out and One Love were closed during this visit, guests can bring their own supplies for next time.
We love this place. We try to visit 2-3x a year. Bathrooms/showers are clean. The Take out bar and grill was a great additive. We’ve camped in regular tents and the Bell tent.
Ashley Price — Google review
My wife and I were in town for our anniversary and looking for something exciting to do. The spelunking adventure into Worley's Cave was AWESOME! Andy and Miranda (our guides) were knowledgeable, personable, funny, and so patient during our excursion. We were with another group who had smaller kids and they took their time to pause to point out cave-dwelling wildlife, rock formations, and were mindful of what crystalline formations were still growing to look at but not touch! Fantastic experience - highly recommend!
Matt Anthony — Google review
Planned this trip a month ago, long overdue vacation with my wife. We scheduled a 1/2 day rafting trip, for 1:30pm. We both work late nights into early morning so getting up for the 8:30trip would have been a rough indevour. However the wonderful staff worked some magic and got us a group for 10:30am.
Our guide Lauren was amazing, personable, knowledgeable and made our trip memorable and safe.
At night our "Appalachian concierge" Cory was quick to get us what we needed, helpful, friendly and an all around great guy!
We had a couple great evenings at the Take Out Tavern. The food was amazing, the beers ice cold, service was absolutely spot on weather it was to warm our bellies after the wonderful white water or after a few beers.
We stayed in one of the domes, the pictures didn't even do it justice to how luxurious it would be. The bathhouse facility and sauna were clean and maintained daily.
We had a wonderful surprise of live music by the Dirty Dead.
The grounds had this amazing vibe and ambiance, it felt like I came home, it was home, and everyone there was my family.
A completely magical vacation, we can not wait to go again. Already looking at the calendars!
Thank you to everyone, even if I didn't get your name you were intrical to making it the best vacation, what our souls really needed.
Erin Hurlock — Google review
I was charged with criminal trespassing for showing up on their property after getting my property back from my ex-boyfriend at the Nolichucky River Gorge Campground. Avoid going here. They just want your money and do not care about relationships or the truth. I am not a thief.
Cat Walsh — Google review
We stayed at the resort for two nights. Dale, Riff and the rest of the staff that we interacted with were friendly and helpful. We loved staying in the Love Shack. We were there on Monday and Tuesday night, so the Take Out and One Love were not open. We brought our own and will check that the next time we are there.
We went rafting on the Nolichucky Gorge with USA Raft during our stay. Our guide, Walker, was fantastic. He is a real pro on the river. He and trip leader Loren made the trip exciting and fun. We will definitely go again.
We also floated the Lower Nolichucky a couple of times while there. That is a different but fun trip. The Red Banks take out has a nice beach and is a beautiful primative campground.
Benjamin Smith — Google review
Super awesome experience on the Nolichucky with Andy! He was very informative of the surrounding area and history, kept us engaged with silly jokes, and kept us on the edge of our seats! Definitely a trip worth making. Can't wait to come back!
Madison Taylor — Google review
We had an amazing time with USA Raft..A group of us stayed in the Crockett Cabin. The cabin was HUGE..it was great for covid..we all had our separate places and one main area. We spent most of our time outside enjoying the river, fishing, swimming, and tubing…we missed out on the rafting but that’s just an excuse to come back. The communal bathrooms were cleaned and stocked from tampons to hand towels, soap and more…Everything was always fully stocked and clean. We went during SOL Jam…so it was pretty packed. They made everyone comfortable with all things covid. It really was more than I expected in every way. The food was great, the people were great and the music was great. A truly wonderful experience for us all.. We love the Band Sol Driven Train and we hope to come back and see them and USA Raft again next year. Thank you, for sharing your little piece of heaven with us and all your accommodations, recommendations and making us all feel so welcomed.
Kelly Stahulak — Google review
We took a wrong turn coming off the AT trail after hiking 18 miles (the sign with showers and several amnenities got us overly-excited!) and ended up at the USA Rafting Adventure Resort. We were confused and asked for directions and guidance of how to get to Uncle Johnny's Hostel in the main store. They misled us by saying it was far away and telling us there was no real downtown area in Erwin (which we knew was false information) presumably to encourage us to stay there (their cabin rates started at $165). An off-duty staff member offered us a lift (all of 1 mile) for $10 and left us waiting for 20 minutes for him to return and he never showed up. We ended up just hiking the extra mile to Uncle Johnny's. It was confirmed that this facility often mislead and attempt to appeal to the hiking community but doing so by spreading false information is really dishonest and dissapointing.
Virginia Isaharov — Google review
Great location, great people. Horrible management.
The manager, Tiffany, was rude and condescending. When I finally asked her to stop interrupting me, she yelled “OH, YOU’RE CUTE talking to me like that…” And it only got worse from there.
It only takes one person to make the entire establishment look bad. Which is awful considering everyone else was really friendly, accommodating and seemed like very nice people.
The Tiny House was fine as long as you can use the patio and deck area. For $285 I would have expected a few things to be nicer. For example: the cob webs along the AC unit, bleach stained shower curtain covering up a rusty water heater. The tent had 3 of its feet screwed in but one came loose and in the wind was slamming down and quite noisy!
The interior was not made for lounging. The amazing view was blocked by a full sized refrigerator and countertop grille backed by a trellis. The end of the bed and corner of the room were the only places to sit and see the River from inside unless we were standing and as it was too cold to stay outside for long, that’s all we got! During great weather I bet this spot is great but great weather it was not!
We never found the wifi, not in the in-room notebook which would be logical. Finally upon checking out, we saw a plaque in front of the office.
Note to staff:
-When cold weather is coming, don’t make the client have to call for another space heater or extra blankets. Have it in the unit for them.
-Let people speak and if they want $15 worth of tubing passes for the summertime so you might redeem yourselves as a location worth peoples money and time, listen to them instead of manipulating and condescending!
Jenn Criss — Google review
My partner and I have done the Nolichucky half-day trip twice now. This isn't a technical raft, but there are plenty of fun, splashy rapids. The aspect that keeps us coming back--and we'll be back again--is the scenery. For all of the 8.5 mi downriver, you're surrounded by verdant Appalachian mountainsides. A little-used train track traces a line along the south riverbank. Two-thirds of the way through, you are rewarded with a beautiful stretch of rocky cliffs on the north riverbank. Overall, very fun and tough to beat as a tour to this pretty portion of the Appalachians.
Our last guide, Ashley, was outstanding.
Ian Mc Dowell — Google review
First time out with USA Raft and was very impressed. Had a fantastic trip down the Nolichucky with Trip Leader Loren (sp?). He was very knowledgeable about the area, and had amazing control of our raft, such that we actually had to do very little paddling relative to other trips we've been on. His safety briefing was serious but also humorous. We will definitely be going back and requesting Loren as our guide.
Jim Applegate — Google review
We went white water rafting last Friday just before heading back home to FL. Walker was our guide and he was outstanding! Great personality and a Super Guide. We all had an amazing time. This river is now in the top of our favorites. Great white water rapids! The only downside was no pics....y'all need to get those back.
Heather DeBolt — Google review
Had a great time on the rafting trip! Our guide Andy kept us alive and entertained the whole time. Great guy. 10/10 would do again 🫡🫡🫡
Ivan Goubski — Google review
USA Raft is truly an amazing place. I can’t express in words how beautiful the Nolichuky Gorge is. You must float the river and experience it yourself. Danny was our guide, his knowledge on the history of the area, the flora & fauna made the trip that much more special. His paddling skills were amazing, he could certainly pick a line!
The campground at USA Raft is awesome as well, the Take Out Bar has a great beer selection and good bar food. You might get lucky with good music on the small or large stage!
I can’t say enough about this Mountain Gem!
Thanks for a wonderful weekend!
Rhys
Rhys Chittick — Google review
Stayed in one of the airstream camper trailers while hiking the AT. It’s 0.1m off trail and a great spot to stay dry on a rainy night. Activities look very cool, but it’s back to the trail tomorrow.
David L — Google review
Was a great time. My sister had never gone rafting before so we decided on the half day. Had a great time and the scenery was gorgeous. Great for all skill levels and the staff was extremely nice and friendly! Definitely would recommend.
Jennifer Behl — Google review
Rafting was lots of fun, beautiful sights and amazing guides. Cam and Andy were wonderful :)!!
Vikiix — Google review
Our group had a blast on the half day rafting trip through the gorge. It was SO beautiful, and exciting to navigate the class 3 and 4 rapids. Elliott was our guide and he was the master of the water and the dad jokes - very knowledgeable and entertaining. The location is perfect - convenient to the highway etc. We loved the resort too - so much that we came back the following weekend for the Dog Days festival. This will be at the top of our list to refer to our friends. Thank you!
Brooke Melendi — Google review
Wow! Such an amazing experience staying and rafting with my family! We were able to take our 5 and 6 year old kids on the Nolichucky river and Bobby was an incredible guide. Able to give us a taste of adventure without being too scary for the kids. Cannot wait to come back and go again! The Loft cabin was such a perfect and refreshing place to crash after a day of hiking, rafting, and playing in the river. Highly recommend.
Amber Featherston — Google review
Had the best time rafting down the river with USA Rafting! Will was a great guide and got along great with our group! Absolutely loved all the corny jokes he told and how much history he knew of the River. 10/10 would recommend USA rafting! Hope to come back soon!
Brooklyn Newman — Google review
This is my second opportunity to stay here, and I love all the changes (additions) that have been made to include Red Banks, the bar, disc golf and more. Matt Moses and his team are amazing, friendly, and create that “family” vibe. You won’t be disappointed with a stay here, even if you just enjoy the outdoors and sound of the River.
Shawn Schwantes — Google review
Stayed in cabin for the weekend. Clean and comfortable. Bar/grill was awesome so we didn't have to leave the resort for food, staff was extra nice. The music (both live and recorded) was great. The overall atmosphere of the resort was so relaxing and of course beautiful being next to the river. We hope to do it again in the future.
The Biltmore Inn is a beautiful, historic hotel located outside of Asheville in South Asheville. It has a wide variety of rooms and suites to choose from, as well as several great restaurants and lounges within the property. The atmosphere is romantic and inviting, perfect for any special occasion.
I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did! We took the self guided tour with listening devices and were able to enjoy this with no rush.
So beautiful!
There were multiple families touring at the same time and the kids did well although I don't think it's somewhere I would've taken my own kids.
We enjoyed the drive through the estate to the wine tasting. John was great at guiding us through each option.
Shopping was very pleasant and Carl helped us decide on our favorites as well as the best way to save to get the most bang for our buck.
The gift shops were great too! We each purchased an ornament for a souvenir.
Ehsan Golzar — Google review
Love the Biltmore Inn. The views are spectacular. Food is delicious....breakfast especially. Rooms are comfy with nice little extras. Staff is very helpful.
Elizabeth Kelly — Google review
My husband and I decided on a whim, to pack a bag and head to The Biltmore House. Neither of us had been, and we were bored. We stayed at The Biltmore Inn. From the moment we arrived... to the moment we left, everything was amazing. We will absolutely be back when we can stay longer than a night. I absolutely love the view from the deluxe terrace rooms. So beautiful and dreamy. And dinner at the on-site restaurant downstairs was superb.
Samantha Hill — Google review
Absolutely wonderful place to stay. Great restaurants, great lounge with big fireplace as well as nice outside firepits
Richy Wittmer — Google review
Enjoyed an amazing First Class Afternoon Tea in the Dining Room. The staff were top notch in thier attention and kindness. The tea was simply the best I have had of tea services I have experieced all over the world. The view was breathtaking. Splendid Holiday decor. Topped off with delicious food and tea.
Cynthia Thompson — Google review
A great experience, tours were so informative, professional and friendly.
John Zarogoza — Google review
We went there for our honeymoon for a week. The valet were excellent and very nice. The front desk, not so much. We were not fans of the front desk. Every person we encountered working there while on our stay was snobby and rude.
The rooms are pretty basic to me. I live about 30 minutes from the West Baden in Indiana and I was just expecting more from the Inn, I suppose. I would rate the Inn a 3/5 on service and friendliness compared to the West Baden. The view is a 10/10. That is perfect and I'm assuming that's why you pay so much to stay there.
Also the "Library" lounge is not a library. It's the "common area" essentially. The drinks are outrageous. We paid $63 for two drinks. Bloody Mary's are $20.. for one shot of vodka lol. Those are like $5 where I live. It was a jump scare. Don't get food delivered to your room either. We wanted a quick lunch while we were getting ready one day. So we ordered one sandwich to split and a Tito's and cranberry... $65 dollars. It's just extortion really. The food was good but not worth $45.
If we come back to Asheville, we would probably stay in a cabin & getting a day pass or at the hotel on the Biltmore. The house tour, the kayaking, the trails, the E-Bikes were all really fun. We just didn't like the Inn and our experience. Also, eat at the Bistro and Cedric's! Both very good and very friendly service and staff.
Also we were told the pool was heated and would be open on our stay, it wasn't. But the hotels was. So all around, I would just stay at the hotel. It's essentially the same thing but friendlier.
Taylor Fischer — Google review
The inn was very welcoming. Complimentary wine every day in the lobby was a nice touch. The turn-down service was one of the best of all my hotel stays! They even tied up the phone charging plugs with a silky red ribbon that has the Vanderbilt insignia. One major disappointment is the room felt damp at all times!
Ashley Biddle — Google review
Staying at Builtmore Inn comes with the great perk of shuttle service on the estate.
Food and service as expected for for its ratings.
Corey Leonhard — Google review
We have had passes to Biltmore for years. Our daughter got married there. We're so grateful for one of N.C.'s greatest treasures. Sometimes, though, their reach for profit exceeds their mission and value proposition. We had not eaten at Biltmore Inn for perhaps a year or so. So we pulled up to Inn to valet park (raining hard). The valet informed us we would have a $20 parking fee for this lunch! Didn't make me very happy. This was NEW. Then we went downstairs for lunch and they informed us that they had transformed downstairs dining room into the "tea room" for afternoon tea and that upstairs in the library where high tea had been held, they were serving lunch. So we go back upstairs and were seated after long wait. They brought menu..... it was not lunch ... it was snacks and appetizers to be taken with drinks! Ugh! So at the Biltmore Inn, now, one cannot have a lunch!!!!! The Inn guests have to leave the hotel if they want to take lunch. The demand for (and profitability of) afternoon tea was large enough to move it downstairs to more capacity and lunch was eliminated, but we were inaccurately guided to library for snacks and appetizers ...... at one time there they even served hamburgers etc. NOT NOW.
I expect more from the Biltmore Inn.
Roger Jenkins — Google review
We spent $450 for tickets, gas and food for 1 day - 2 people. NOT worth the money; gardens and art exhibit were a big disappointment. When we purchased the tickets they told us the spring flowers would be planted, dogwoods and wisteria would be in bloom. Minimal annuals were planted, in fact they were just in the process of digging up dead tulips, so that is what we paid to see. We had to seek out the dogwoods and didn't see 1 wisteria in bloom. Art exhibit was a joke. A projection of renaissance art on the walls, no actual prints to view.
Jacqueline Oshier — Google review
Our experience at the Inn was nearly perfect from beginning to end.
We stayed in the Inn @ Room 259. I was disappointed that we didn’t have a mountain view, but the room was perfect, and we did have a terrace that offered substantial privacy when sitting outside. [I assumed a terrace would come with a mountain view, and I was wrong.]
The valet & bellhop were outstanding, as was the front desk, the concierge, and all of the wait staff. We were treated with the utmost respect and never got bad vibes.
We took the early morning tour of the Biltmore Mansion and it is HIGHLY recommended.
We ate one night @ the Inn and the experience was fantastic! The service was perfect and the meal was delicious. We started with the crab cake, and both ordered filets, then finished with the creme brulee…………like seriously - how can you complain?
The $30 +/- cocktails were pricey, but then you take in the priceless views and suddenly the drinks seemed like a fair value!
CONS:
The website is very confusing. The difference between the Hotel, the Inn, & the Home is not clear at all, and the room descriptions could use some work.
I ordered the embroidered robe for my wife, and it was probably 4 sizes too big. I contacted guest services and they said they only offer one size fits all. It was really only meant to be a keepsake, but perhaps one of my boys will grow up to be a 2x or 3x!
Great job Biltmore – we have told several friends how much we enjoyed our stay and we are proud to have been your guests.
Reed Strunk — Google review
This is much more than a place to stay while visiting Biltmore: it's an experience in and of itself. We stayed here for two nights while celebrating our anniversary last week. Everything was pleasantly over-the-top - just as a stay at the Biltmore must have been. The property, the location, the staff, the accommodations, the view, the shopping, the food. All exceeded our expectations. Definitely worth the stay.
Attraction offering guided zipline tours through the forested terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Kole and Paxton were responsible, chill, quirky, and knowledgeable. Any questions we asked they had a thoughtful answer for us. We felt very safe and free. The hiking portion was enjoyable because they would stop to show us things in nature giving us a breather and knowledge to take home with us! I highly recommend doing the mountain top tour!
Emma Choplin — Google review
My family and I had a wonderful time doing the Treetop Tour. Kat and Tate we fantastic tour guides. They showed us edible leaves, shared stories from the property’s history, but it didn’t feel like they were performing. It felt like just a conversation with friends while doing a really cool activity on tree platforms where woodland elves live. The views were stunning. We will be back to do the Mountaintop Tour.
kasey hayes — Google review
We had an amazing experience with the mountaintop zip line adventure.
You walk to three different platforms, the guides give plenty of time to rest as you hike to increased elevations, and they give history of the land and plants along the way.
We had River and Spice as our guides and highly recommend them. They were engaging, funny and very professional at the same time as they adhered to all safety standards and made sure each of us was clipped in and secure at each launch point.
We had a wonderful time and would do it again!
Highly recommend
Marla Darius — Google review
River and Willy were our guides for my wife and I anniversary celebration and let’s just say they definitely earned a great review. They were friendly and personable and made our special day all the more enjoyable. They even spared us from being attacked by a copperhead. Willy was being extremely cautious as he pushed the little feller off the beaten path. Needless to say they were awesome Tour guides!!! Will definitely go back again!!!
Charles Simpson — Google review
We had a fantastic time on our zipline tour! Even with wind gusts and rain we had a blast! John and River were excellent guides and were very personable. If we are ever back in the area we would definitely come again!
Emily Palus — Google review
Sydney and Nathan provided us with a great experience. I've never been zip lining and had no plans to ever do it because of my fear of heights but decided to join my kids. They made me feel at ease with their professionalism and their chill personalities. Zip lining here was amazing. The views are breath taking. I would do it again.
Christine Cam — Google review
We couldn’t have asked for a better experience for the treetop tour. . Antonio and Alex were amazing guides. They helped my son to take on his fear when he got to the first zip line . Alex and Antonio were so mindful of everyone in the group. They were obviously very knowledgeable and skilled at taking people through the zip lines . My kids can’t wait to go back and do the mountaintop tour. I would recommend the tour to anyone looking to have a great zip line experience.
Tracey Cavey — Google review
We did not the tree top canopy tour -- six zips of varying lengths through the tree tunnels and crisscrossing across the gorge. Beautiful scenery. Well worth pushing the comfort boundaries high up the hillside. Our guides, Alex and Greg were wonderful -- patient and expert, with knowledge of the foliage and the terrain. The body harnesses make for super-safe zipping -- anyone over 70 lbs, and even great for adventurous grandparents. No climbing involved, just a short hike at the end.
Laura Doto — Google review
I visited Navitat this October and it was an incredibly fun experience. Our guides, Willy and Leap, made us all feel safe and excited to try the ziplines. Their knowledge of the flora of the area and property's history enriched the experience and made us feel connected to our surroundings. Overall it was an extremely well ran operation with breathtaking views and exhilarating rides! I am looking forward to bringing my family back to visit in the future.
Parker Vidmar — Google review
Amazing experience! The views are amazing! The hike up is worth it. Our guides were Alex and Ilze and they were fantastic! So many great dad jokes and nature facts along the way. Would highly recommend. My parents did the atv tour so they could watch us and they had a great time with their guide, Willy.
Monica Cox — Google review
We had an absolute blast!! My wife was a bit anxious before and our guides John and Alex were phenomenal with talking her through the process and calming her! They were both fun and engaging throughout the entire process from check in to exiting the experience. Would give them 10 stars if I could!
Nathan Darko — Google review
Awesome experience! Blue and Victoria were great. We went with a group of 6 and everyone had a blast! We will definitely be going back to do the treetop zip.
With they had a food truck for afterwards but fantastic experience overall and already looking forward to our next adventure!
Justin Chew — Google review
12/10 recommend! Absolutely awesome experience and felt completely safe the entire time! Our guides, Leap and Willy-D were super knowledgeable and fun to hang around too! The drive up the mountain side was so relaxing too! Our driver, Alex, took great care to cruise gently along the well maintained, beautiful trail. Couldn’t have had better guides! If you’re here for a day, or a week, this place is a MUST!
Steven Davis — Google review
We went on a Saturday around 1:10 and did the mountain top tour with JD and Tate - they were such great guides and had some pretty good dad jokes along the way. Definitely felt very safe and the views were very pretty! I’ve done a few zip lines before above the smokies and I do wish there was a little bit more thrill or maybe a few more zip lines, there was only 3, but the guides and the pictures definitely made the experience! Thank you! :)
Cheyenne Raker — Google review
Our guides Greg and Victoria were nothing but amazing, and It's always great to see people who are passionate about their job and obviously love what they do! We had a fantastic time ziplining with them and learning about the local area. My group still talks about the bus ride up the mountain that I can best describe as a wild mystery machine experience. Sadly I didn't get the drivers name but 11/10 would ride again. We had a great time and are looking forward to coming back :)
Lauren Koerner — Google review
Amazing mountaintop ziplining during peak leaf changing! Although there were only three zips, they were all super long, fast, high up, and fun. Spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains during the autumn leaves gorgeousness. It was also nice to ride simultaneously, as they have two side by side zips. Our guides were great, and Navitat was very well organized and had a clean indoor area with restrooms, and hammock chairs outside while we waited for our tour. The only part I wasn't a fan of was the van ride up - extremely bumpy and the driver was blasting rock music. Some might enjoy this though as part of the adventure.
Tara Clapper — Google review
This couldn’t have been any better! Everyone did a great job and we loved it! My wife and I are going but I have a bad ankle and my wife has a bad back, we had no problems zip lining!!! It was a nice little hike but not too hard or intense. Our guides were Naomi, Gus, and McKenzie and they were all fantastic! They were funny and made sure we felt safe and had fun. I will do this every time we come to Asheville from now on.
If you are on the fence about it, just do it! You will not regret it. My wife was a little nervous but after the first zip line, we were good and almost running up the mountain to the next one!
Austin Marcus — Google review
Awesome time!! Don’t think twice, just book it and go. Greg & Alex were our guides and they were the best! We felt like pros at the end of the day thanks to how informative and friendly they were. Beautiful and well set up place. Our next trip to Asheville will include another visit from the Farmer family. Thank you guys to a memorable trip!
Kazie Farmer — Google review
My friends and I were visiting Asheville for spring break and zip lining was on our bucket list and needless to say this place blew us away. Absolutely beautiful location and the most welcoming and friendly and fun staff. It was $125 each which I think was totally worth it. There were three of us in total including me and we did the mountaintop tour. We were luckily that it was just us three on the tour so we were able to get to know the tour guides, John and Victoria, a lot better. Shout out to them because they made us laugh the entire time and gave us great suggestions for restaurants and other places to visit during our stay in Asheville. I had so much fun bantering with them that I forgot to be afraid of heights lol. They did all the harness and securing stuff for us during the tour which made me feel a lot safer and they made sure to get really great photos with of our group together which we bought for around $30 for 26 pictures I believe. The views were extraordinary and breathtaking and the speeds of the zip line left our group speechless. I will say it was freezing cold so dress warm in March but the little bit of hiking warmed us up. Thank you to John and Victoria again!! Y’all were awesome.
Nicole Zani — Google review
Emerson and Jules were amazing guides! They were funny, but informative and very nice to hang out with! The views were amazing and I felt very safe the whole time! I also love the games/hammocks where you can hangout before your tour! We enjoyed celebrating my mom’s birthday here!
MaKenna Lewis — Google review
Our group had the best time! The entire staff were outstanding and helpful. Our guides were Riah and Cat. Highly recommend requesting these two for a fun and safe trip!! The views and experience were well worth it and great for all ages. If you’re looking for an amazing adventure this is the place for you!
Jenny Woods — Google review
We had a fantastic experience, our family including teenagers loved zipping with Navitat! We did the mountaintop tour. The courses were well designed, with what I feel the right amount of thrill still allowing for enough relaxation to admire the beautiful mountain views. Their equipment appeared to be very well maintained. The tour was organized well. Staff was professional, polite and helpful - they maintained an atmosphere of safety, provided great information during the hike and added some good humor to make the tour even more fun.
Christina K — Google review
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242 Poverty Branch Rd, Barnardsville, NC 28709, USA
The Folk Art Center and Southern Highland Craft Guild is a place where you can see art from local and regional craft artists, as well as purchase unique gifts. It's located off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina.
We stop here every single time we are in Asheville. Throughout the years we’ve bought platters, clocks, lamps. It’s a treasure. There is always an artist in house doing their craft/art. Lovely museum, store, and art gallery
RobertsMom NC — Google review
Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway,the Southern Highland Craft Shop is one of the oldest craft shops in America.
Local artists from Southern Appalachia sell beautiful artisan made jewelry,pottery,textiles,pottery,glass and more.
Definitely worth a stop !
John Moore — Google review
This place was beautifully maintained with a lot to see. The gift shop was huge and stocked with art from all kinds of mediums from local artists and craftspeople. The prices were so fair too. I loved seeing the quilts and the pottery. Such a great stop!
Julie Zerk — Google review
Excellent craft and gift store. Over 400 artist show and sell their work at the Guild. Special events like glass blowing. Call or check website for times. This is also the oldest craft store in the U.S. Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway afterwards!
Athena Reel — Google review
I loved walking through the craft market! They have their displays on the second floor, and the bottom floor is where you can purchase crafts from various artists. Many of the pieces were well out of my price range, but it was still nice to look at everything. The store on the bottom floor has cheaper souvenirs like stickers, CDs, and postcards.
Tawni Lamb — Google review
A nice break from the heat with beautiful artwork to look at and to purchase, although expensive and for good reason.
There were neat displays and even a local artist demonstration. A gift shop as well. My 13 year old even enjoyed it.
It’s easy to get to right off the parkway. Signs are easy to follow. I’m terrible with directions and I was able to find it easily without maps.
Katie Alexander — Google review
My first stop while driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
First impression: very pretty stop with lots of trees (it's Asheville, duh) and lots of parking. You can even have stop here to have lunch (prepare a quick meal in advance) - they have some picnic tables in the parking lot.
If you want a map of the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can ask the cashier for a free map.
The store has many interesting crafts like bugs made out of beer bottle caps and pins, tiny little vases, handmade christmas ornaments, etc. You can find all sort of things here and they are good quality stuff. However, they are on the pricey end. One of the ornaments I saw was $115 and a (handmade, one of a kind, pretty) jacket was $900 (it's really nine hundred, I didn't add a 0 by accident).
I didn't walk the whole museum because I didn't know there was more. Will do next time.
Ngan Nguyen — Google review
Pulled in to just use the bathroom, ended up spending a good hour plus here (outside of the bathroom). So many cool things to look at! My wife and I do some woodworking and we took lots of pictures for inspiration for future projects to make. Really great spot to stop and look around. We’ll definitely stop again on our next trip and will give ourselves enough time to really explore and enjoy.
Brady Howe — Google review
Amazing art works from all types of craftsmanship. Great to see with the eyes as every piece is very valuable. Everything is displayed well and o much to see. Be careful if u have a touchy toddler, lol. Came here for a stamp cancelation. Lots of people came with their dogs to hike in the area. Parking is great.
GiGi Fuentes — Google review
So amazing. It smelled good and I felt so comfortable in there. The museum was quiet and the gift shop items were so beautifully made. I love how the museum exhibit items had booklets near most of them explaining the process or showing us more detail. All I want in a museum! Next is let me live here.
Katrina Ostrom — Google review
We always love to hike around the folk art center when in the Asheville area.
The art/craft center is a gem, with amazing local art and beautiful furniture/home good pieces.
Kaitlin Talbot — Google review
It's a hopping place on a Saturday! I happened upon "clay day" with potters of all different kinds, plus a glass blower out front that looks like he's more permanent. There's all manner of potter, fabric, quilts, clothes, jewelry and tons more for sale and to look at. Upstairs is a fancier gallery and some of that is for sale as well. It's a really interesting stop.
Sara Beth Wade — Google review
Enjoyed seeing the art and the historical information. Beautiful place and beautiful work.