Rutledge TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Rutledge, Tennessee.
1. Red Barn Produce
FRESH LOCAL FARM GOODS
Red Barn Produce is a popular local market in Rutledge known for its fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. Visitors can find seasonal produce, homemade preserves, and artisanal goods from area farmers and producers. The market showcases the agricultural heritage of Grainger County, famous for its tomatoes and other farm products.
2. Appalachian Quilt Trail
CULTURAL HERITAGE ON DISPLAY
The Appalachian Quilt Trail features colorful quilt patterns painted on barns and buildings throughout Rutledge and surrounding areas. Each quilt square represents a piece of local history, family heritage, or traditional Appalachian craft patterns. Visitors can drive through scenic countryside following maps to view these outdoor art installations that celebrate the region's textile traditions.
3. Buffalo Springs WMA
WILDLIFE AND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Buffalo Springs Wildlife Management Area offers outdoor enthusiasts access to protected natural habitats for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. The area includes a fish hatchery run by TWRA and acres of game land for recreational use. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of this wilderness area located near Cherokee Lake.
4. Rutledge Municipal Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Rutledge Municipal Park serves as the community's central recreation area with facilities for sports and family gatherings. The park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and open spaces for local events and activities. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy this well-maintained public space that hosts community gatherings throughout the year.
5. Joppa Mountain Pottery Gallery
LOCAL ARTISAN CRAFTS
Joppa Mountain Pottery Gallery showcases handcrafted ceramic works by local artisans in the heart of Rutledge. Visitors can browse and purchase unique pottery pieces that reflect Appalachian traditions and contemporary designs. The gallery offers insights into the pottery-making process and highlights the skilled craftsmanship of East Tennessee artisans.
6. Buffalo Creek Falls
SCENIC NATURAL WATERFALL
Buffalo Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in a wilderness area near Rutledge and Cherokee Lake. Visitors can drive directly to the falls and then explore the surrounding river areas on foot to discover fishing spots and natural beauty. The clear waters and peaceful setting make this a perfect destination for photography, light hiking, and connecting with nature.
7. Southern Barnwood Boutique
RUSTIC CHIC SHOPPING
Southern Barnwood Boutique offers a curated selection of rustic home décor, gifts, and clothing with Appalachian charm. The shop features handcrafted items made from reclaimed barnwood alongside contemporary fashion and accessories. Shoppers can find unique Tennessee-made products that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern style.
8. The Common Market
LOCAL GOODS AND GROCERIES
The Common Market serves as a community hub offering locally-sourced groceries and specialty items from around the region. Shoppers can find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods produced by Grainger County residents and nearby farmers. The market emphasizes supporting local producers while providing visitors and residents access to quality regional products.
9. TN Homegrown Tomatoes
FAMOUS LOCAL PRODUCE
TN Homegrown Tomatoes is a specialty farm stand celebrating Grainger County's most famous agricultural product. Visitors can purchase the region's renowned tomatoes, known for their superior flavor and quality during growing season. The stand offers a true taste of local food culture and the agricultural heritage that has made the area's tomatoes famous throughout the Southeast.
10. Greenlee Campground
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR GETAWAY
Greenlee Campground provides scenic camping opportunities near Rutledge along the shores of Cherokee Lake. Campers can enjoy water recreation, fishing, and relaxing stays in a natural setting with beautiful views. The campground offers various amenities for both tent and RV camping, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the region.
11. Elrod Falls
SWIMMING AND PHOTOGRAPHY SPOT
Elrod Falls is a scenic cascade offering perfect opportunities for swimming and photography in a secluded natural setting near Rutledge. Visitors can cool off in the clear stream waters while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere away from crowds. The falls feature multiple tiers creating natural swimming holes surrounded by the beauty of rural East Tennessee landscape.
12. Maynardville Fire Tower
HISTORIC PANORAMIC VIEWPOINT
The Maynardville Fire Tower stands as a historic lookout offering adventurous visitors panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Accessible by car to its base, the tower requires climbing approximately 100 steep stairs to reach the observation platform. While not built with modern safety standards, the tower rewards those who make the climb with spectacular vistas of the East Tennessee landscape.
13. Cherokee Lake
WATER RECREATION DESTINATION
Cherokee Lake offers extensive water recreation opportunities just minutes from Rutledge with its 28,780 acres of scenic waters. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and waterfront relaxation along its 400+ miles of shoreline. The lake provides year-round recreational activities while serving as a centerpiece for tourism in the region.
14. Grainger County Tomato Festival
ANNUAL AGRICULTURAL CELEBRATION
The Grainger County Tomato Festival is a beloved annual event celebrating the area's famous agricultural product through food, entertainment, and community activities. Held each summer, the festival features tomato tastings, cooking competitions, local crafts, and live music that draws visitors from across the region. Festival-goers can experience the pride of local farmers while enjoying the distinctive flavor of Grainger County's prized tomatoes.
15. Historic Downtown Rutledge
SMALL-TOWN CHARM
Historic Downtown Rutledge offers visitors a glimpse into small-town Appalachian life with its preserved buildings and local businesses. The walkable downtown area features the historic Grainger County Courthouse, established in 1796, alongside family-owned shops and eateries. Visitors can experience authentic East Tennessee culture while browsing unique stores and connecting with friendly locals in this charming county seat.