Cowan TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cowan, Tennessee.
1. Cowan Railroad Museum
HISTORIC TRAIN LANDMARK
Cowan Railroad Museum is housed in the old Cowan Depot, a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum features historic displays, relics, memorabilia, and a model railroad layout along with a rare Porter steam locomotive, a historic flatcar, caboose, and an antique diesel-electric locomotive. It is open seasonally from May through October with a small admission fee of $2 for individuals, $1 for children, or $5 per family.
2. The University of the South
PRESTIGIOUS ACADEMIC INSTITUTION
The University of the South is a premier destination located just 7 miles from Cowan on a stunningly beautiful 10,000-acre domain. Besides the College of Arts and Sciences, the campus features the School of Theology and the School of Letters. Cultural events and festivals are scheduled throughout the year, making it a hub of intellectual and artistic activity.
3. Sewanee Summer Music Festival
CLASSICAL MUSIC CELEBRATION
The Sewanee Summer Music Festival is a popular annual event held at The University of the South. Musicians from around the country gather to perform and teach at this prestigious festival. Visitors can enjoy a variety of classical performances in the beautiful setting of the university campus.
4. The Caverns
UNDERGROUND MUSIC VENUE
The Caverns is a unique underground concert venue located near Cowan that hosts the Emmy-winning PBS music series Bluegrass Underground. This natural wonder features stunning cave formations and exceptional acoustics that create an unforgettable musical experience. Visitors can enjoy performances by renowned artists while surrounded by the natural beauty of Tennessee's underground landscape.
5. Jack Daniel's Distillery
HISTORIC WHISKEY PRODUCTION
Jack Daniel's Distillery, the nation's oldest registered distillery, is less than 40 miles from Cowan and is one of Tennessee's most famous tourist attractions. Visitors can tour the buildings and facilities to witness the slow, painstaking process used to make the famous Tennessee whiskey. While in Lynchburg, guests can also explore shops and other attractions in the historic downtown area.
6. Fiesta Grill
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
Fiesta Grill is a highly-rated Mexican restaurant in Cowan offering Southwestern cuisine. With a 4.6/5 rating from visitors, this dining establishment has become a local favorite for its authentic flavors and quality dishes. The restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere for both tourists and locals looking for delicious Mexican food in the heart of Cowan.
7. U.S. Space and Rocket Center
SPACE EXPLORATION MUSEUM
The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is a world-famous attraction accessible from Cowan, showcasing America's achievements in space exploration. Visitors can view an impressive collection of rockets, space memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of NASA's missions. The center also offers Space Camp programs and simulator experiences that provide hands-on learning about space travel and technology.
8. Rock City
NATURAL SCENIC WONDER
Rock City is a spectacular natural attraction featuring massive ancient rock formations, gardens with over 400 native plant species, and breathtaking panoramic views. From Lover's Leap, visitors can see seven states on a clear day while exploring the 4,100-foot walking trail. The site also includes whimsical elements like Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village that delight guests of all ages.
9. Ruby Falls
UNDERGROUND WATERFALL ADVENTURE
Ruby Falls is America's tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public, located within Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga. Visitors descend by elevator to explore the cave system's stunning limestone formations before reaching the magnificent 145-foot waterfall illuminated by colorful lights. The attraction also offers zipline adventures, a climbing tower, and spectacular views of the Tennessee Valley from Lookout Mountain Tower.
10. Lookout Mountain
SCENIC MOUNTAIN DESTINATION
Lookout Mountain is a historic natural landmark straddling the Tennessee-Georgia border, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The mountain played a significant role during the Civil War with the Battle of Lookout Mountain and now houses several popular attractions including Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, historical sites, and panoramic vistas that showcase the beauty of the Tennessee Valley.
11. Franklin House
HISTORIC COWAN LODGING
Franklin House is a charming accommodation option located in the heart of Cowan, just steps away from the Railroad Museum. The establishment offers comfortable lodging for visitors exploring the local attractions and serves as an excellent base for regional excursions. Guests appreciate its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere when visiting Cowan and the surrounding areas.
12. Lynchburg Historic Downtown
CHARMING SHOPPING DISTRICT
Lynchburg's Historic Downtown is a picturesque shopping district filled with unique stores, boutiques, and eateries less than 40 miles from Cowan. Visitors can browse through shops offering local crafts, Jack Daniel's memorabilia, antiques, and specialty foods while enjoying the area's small-town charm. The town square features historic architecture and provides a relaxing atmosphere for a day trip from Cowan.
13. Tims Ford State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Tims Ford State Park is a 1,321-acre recreational area surrounding the scenic Tims Ford Lake, a popular destination for water sports and fishing. The park offers boat ramps, a marina, campgrounds, cabins, and miles of hiking trails including the 21-mile Shoreline Trail. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, picnicking, bird watching, and golfing at the Bear Trace at Tims Ford, a championship 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course.
14. South Cumberland State Park
WILDERNESS HIKING PARADISE
South Cumberland State Park encompasses nearly 31,000 acres of wilderness across nine counties, offering some of the most rugged and beautiful hiking in the region. The park features spectacular rock formations, waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks, with popular trails leading to sites such as Savage Gulf, Stone Door, and Fiery Gizzard. Visitors can explore ancient forests, deep gorges, and pristine streams while enjoying camping, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
15. Falls Mill
HISTORIC WORKING MILL
Falls Mill is a historic water-powered grist mill built in 1873 that continues to operate as a working museum near Cowan. Visitors can watch the 32-foot water wheel power the machinery that grinds corn meal and flour using the original millstones. The site also features a museum of pioneer tools and artifacts, a country store selling mill products, and a picturesque setting with a waterfall on Factory Creek.