Harrogate TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Harrogate, Tennessee.
1. Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum
HISTORIC PRESIDENTIAL COLLECTION
The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum houses one of the most diverse Lincoln and Civil War collections in the country. Visitors can explore extensive exhibits featuring artifacts, documents, and memorabilia related to the 16th president. The museum offers an educational journey through American history with a focus on Lincoln's life and legacy.
2. Harrogate City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Harrogate City Park serves as a central recreational area for locals and visitors alike. The park features open green spaces, playground equipment, and picnic areas perfect for family outings. It regularly hosts community events and provides a peaceful setting for outdoor activities.
3. B. Frank Tex Turner Arena
SPORTS AND EVENTS VENUE
B. Frank Tex Turner Arena is a prominent sports venue in Harrogate that hosts various athletic competitions and events. The arena serves as the home court for local basketball teams and offers an exciting atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. Its facilities accommodate spectators comfortably while providing a venue for community gatherings beyond sporting events.
4. Hillcrest Lanes
FAMILY BOWLING ENTERTAINMENT
Hillcrest Lanes offers a fun bowling experience for people of all ages in Harrogate. The bowling alley features well-maintained lanes, rental equipment, and a casual atmosphere perfect for family outings or friendly competitions. Visitors can enjoy snacks and refreshments while participating in this classic American pastime.
5. Reece Monument
CUSTOM MEMORIAL ARTISTRY
Reece Monument is a well-established business in Harrogate specializing in creating custom monuments and memorials. The company crafts personalized tributes with skilled artisanship and attention to detail. Visitors interested in memorial art or those needing commemorative services can appreciate the craftsmanship on display.
6. Daniel Boone Arboretum
NATURAL TREE SANCTUARY
The Daniel Boone Arboretum is a certified natural sanctuary showcasing the diverse tree species of the region. Visitors can stroll through peaceful walking paths while learning about native flora through educational signage. The arboretum provides a serene environment for nature appreciation and outdoor education.
7. East Tennessee Crossing Scenic Byway
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN DRIVE
The East Tennessee Crossing Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views of the Appalachian landscape as it passes through Harrogate. This historic route follows ancient paths once used by Native Americans and early settlers through the Cumberland Gap. Travelers can enjoy numerous historical markers, natural vistas, and cultural attractions along this picturesque drive.
8. Mountain Pass Campground
RIVERSIDE OUTDOOR RETREAT
Mountain Pass Campground provides a scenic outdoor getaway located on the Powell River. The campground offers various accommodation options for tent and RV camping with convenient access to water activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and relaxing in a peaceful natural setting surrounded by Appalachian beauty.
9. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN PASSAGE
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park preserves the famous mountain pass that served as a critical gateway for American westward expansion. The park spans three states and features over 85 miles of hiking trails, impressive overlooks, and fascinating cave systems. Visitors can explore the Hensley Settlement, a preserved mountain community that offers a glimpse into early 20th-century Appalachian life.
10. Pinnacle Overlook
TRI-STATE PANORAMIC VISTA
Pinnacle Overlook provides a breathtaking view where Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia meet in a spectacular mountain landscape. Visitors can see for miles across the Cumberland Gap and surrounding valleys from this elevated vantage point. The overlook is accessible by car with a short walk to viewing platforms that offer perfect photo opportunities.
11. Gap Creek Coffee House
COZY MOUNTAIN CAFE
Gap Creek Coffee House serves as a charming gathering spot for locals and tourists in the historic town of Cumberland Gap. The cafe offers specialty coffee drinks, homemade pastries, and light fare in a rustic mountain atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the friendly service and the opportunity to relax after exploring the surrounding natural attractions.
12. Angelo's in the Gap
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN DINING
Angelo's in the Gap delivers authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Appalachia. The restaurant is known for its handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and warm, inviting atmosphere with rustic decor. Diners can enjoy a taste of Italy while overlooking the historic Cumberland Gap area.
13. Tri-State Antique Market
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Tri-State Antique Market houses a vast collection of vintage items, collectibles, and Appalachian artifacts from the tri-state region. The market features dozens of vendor booths offering everything from furniture and home decor to rare memorabilia and local crafts. Treasure hunters can spend hours browsing the ever-changing inventory while learning about the area's rich cultural heritage.
14. Coal Mining Museum
REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE
The Coal Mining Museum preserves the important industrial history that shaped the Cumberland Gap region. Exhibits feature authentic mining equipment, historical photographs, and personal accounts from generations of coal miners. Visitors gain insight into the challenging working conditions and the cultural impact of coal mining on Appalachian communities.
15. Cumberland Mountain State Park
SCENIC RECREATION AREA
Cumberland Mountain State Park spans over 1,700 acres of forested landscape featuring the scenic Byrd Lake. The park offers extensive recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, boating, and an 18-hole golf course designed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Visitors can stay overnight in comfortable cabins or campsites while exploring the natural beauty of the Cumberland Plateau.