Carthage TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Carthage, Tennessee.
1. Cordell Hull Lake
SCENIC WATERFRONT RECREATION
Cordell Hull Lake is a popular recreational destination in Carthage offering beautiful waterfront views and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy horse trails, overlooks, and scenic vistas along the lake's shores. The lake is surrounded by camping options including Salt Lick Campground and Defeated Creek Campground, which are popular spots for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Cordell Hull Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The historic Cordell Hull Bridge is one of Carthage's most recognizable landmarks, originally opened in 1936. This steel truss bridge rises more than 100 feet above the river, offering stunning views of nearby ridges, riverbanks, and Carthage's historic downtown. The bridge underwent a multi-million-dollar restoration in the early 21st Century and now stands as a silver-colored icon welcoming visitors to town.
3. Smith County Heritage Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Smith County Heritage Museum preserves the rich cultural history of Carthage and the surrounding area. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and exhibits detailing the town's development from a riverboat hub to its present-day significance. Visitors can learn about Colonel William Walton, the town's founder and surveyor of the old Walton Road that connected East and Middle Tennessee.
4. Crump Paris Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Crump Paris Park serves as a central community gathering place in Carthage, offering recreational facilities for locals and visitors alike. The park provides green spaces, picnic areas, and facilities for outdoor activities and community events. Its convenient location makes it a popular destination for families looking to enjoy time outdoors in Carthage.
5. Defeated Creek Day Use Area
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE SPOT
Defeated Creek Day Use Area offers visitors a perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Carthage. The area provides access to water activities, hiking opportunities, and scenic spots for picnicking or relaxation. Its proximity to Defeated Creek Campground makes it a popular destination for both day-trippers and overnight campers.
6. The Candy Bar
SWEET TREAT DESTINATION
The Candy Bar delights visitors with a variety of confectionery treats in the heart of Carthage. This charming shop offers nostalgic candies, homemade sweets, and specialty desserts that appeal to all ages. Visitors often stop by to satisfy their sweet tooth while exploring Carthage's downtown area.
7. Cellar 53 Winery
AWARD-WINNING LOCAL WINES
Cellar 53 Winery, operated by the Paschal family, produces a wide variety of award-winning wines just a short drive from Interstate highways. The winery offers tasting opportunities for visitors to sample their distinctive locally-produced wines in a charming setting. With limited hours for tasting and shopping, this hidden gem requires checking their website before making the trip.
8. Teresa's Gifts
UNIQUE LOCAL SHOPPING
Teresa's Gifts provides a distinctive shopping experience for those looking for souvenirs and local gifts in Carthage. The shop offers a selection of handcrafted items, local products, and unique mementos that capture the spirit of the region. Visitors appreciate the personalized service and opportunity to find one-of-a-kind treasures not available elsewhere.
9. Jeeptime
ADVENTURE VEHICLE EXPERIENCES
Jeeptime offers exciting outdoor adventure experiences for visitors looking to explore the natural landscapes around Carthage. Their Jeep-based excursions allow travelers to access scenic viewpoints and remote areas not easily reached by conventional vehicles. This attraction combines the thrill of off-road driving with the beauty of Tennessee's countryside.
10. Captain William Walton Gravesite
HISTORICAL FOUNDING FIGURE
The gravesite of Captain William Walton, a Revolutionary War soldier and Carthage's founder, is located across from the local Walmart. Walton settled in the area thanks to a land grant and built the important Walton Road that traversed the Cumberland Plateau east to Kingston. This historical site connects visitors to the earliest days of European settlement in the region and the beginnings of what would become Carthage.
11. Cumberland River Confluence
HISTORIC RIVER MEETING POINT
The confluence of the Caney Fork and Cumberland Rivers represents the natural feature that made Carthage a strategic settlement location. This picturesque meeting of waters once made Carthage an important riverboat town known as the "River City" with three ferries operating from the town. Today, the confluence offers scenic views and a reminder of the town's important role in early Tennessee river transportation.
12. Walton Road Historic Byway
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION ROUTE
The Walton Road Historic Byway follows much of the original route established by Carthage founder William Walton that connected East and Middle Tennessee. Today's U.S. 70N (and U.S. 70) traces this historic path that was crucial to the development of the region. Designated as a Tennessee Historic Byway, the route offers travelers a chance to experience the same journey pioneers took through the Cumberland Plateau.
13. Carthage Courthouse Square
HISTORIC TOWN CENTER
Carthage Courthouse Square serves as the historic heart of this Smith County seat, showcasing classic small-town architecture and charm. The square features the county courthouse surrounded by local businesses, shops, and eateries that maintain the character of this former riverboat town. Visitors can stroll the square to experience the authentic atmosphere of this Cumberland River community.
14. Salt Lick Campground
LAKESIDE CAMPING RETREAT
Salt Lick Campground offers a popular camping destination along the shores of Cordell Hull Lake near Carthage. The campground provides amenities for both tent and RV camping, with easy access to water activities and nature trails. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the serene setting and recreational opportunities available at this lakeside retreat.
15. Happy J
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
Happy J serves as a beloved local dining establishment in Carthage, offering homestyle meals in a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant features traditional Southern cuisine prepared with local ingredients and time-honored recipes. Visitors and locals alike appreciate the authentic flavors and friendly service that embody small-town Tennessee hospitality.