Vonore TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Vonore, Tennessee.
1. Fort Loudoun State Historic Park
COLONIAL FORT WITH HISTORY
Fort Loudoun State Historic Park features an accurately reconstructed British fort originally built in 1756. Visitors can explore the historic site and museum dedicated to the French and Indian War, set against a scenic river backdrop. The park offers walking trails, kayak experiences, picnic areas, and hosts historical reenactments throughout the year.
2. Sequoyah Birthplace Museum
CHEROKEE HISTORY AND CULTURE
Sequoyah Birthplace Museum is located on the banks of Tellico Lake and celebrates the life of Sequoyah, who developed the Cherokee syllabary. Inside the museum, visitors can learn about Cherokee myths, legends, and Overhill Cherokee history. The facility also features artifacts from the Little Tennessee Valley, a gift shop, and the Cherokee Memorial.
3. Citico Wildlife Wilderness
NATURAL OUTDOOR EXPLORATION
Citico Wildlife Wilderness offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of East Tennessee. The wilderness area provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation in a preserved setting. Nature enthusiasts can explore diverse ecosystems and observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
4. Tellico Blockhouse State Historic Site
EARLY AMERICAN MILITARY HISTORY
Tellico Blockhouse State Historic Site preserves the remains of an early American military outpost and trading post. The blockhouse served as both a military garrison and a center for diplomatic relations with the Cherokee Nation in the late 18th century. Visitors can explore interpretive displays explaining the site's significance in early American frontier history.
5. The Lost Sea Adventure
UNDERGROUND LAKE EXPLORATION
The Lost Sea Adventure features America's largest underground lake, located within Craighead Caverns. Visitors can take guided tours that include a glass-bottom boat ride across the crystal-clear waters of the underground lake. The cave system also contains an array of remarkable geological formations and historical artifacts.
6. Tellico Lake
RECREATIONAL WATERFRONT PARADISE
Tellico Lake offers 15,560 acres of pristine water for boating, fishing, and water sports in East Tennessee. The lake is renowned for its excellent bass, crappie, and trout fishing opportunities year-round. Surrounding the lake are numerous recreation areas with beaches, picnic facilities, and campgrounds for day trips or extended stays.
7. Cherokee National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS RECREATION
Cherokee National Forest encompasses over 650,000 acres of diverse wilderness areas near Vonore. The forest offers extensive recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, whitewater rafting, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore hundreds of miles of trails, scenic drives, and pristine streams within this expansive natural treasure.
8. Grand Vista Hotel and Suites
SCENIC LODGING EXPERIENCE
Grand Vista Hotel and Suites provides comfortable accommodations with picturesque views of the surrounding East Tennessee landscape. The hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring Vonore's historical sites and natural attractions. Guests can enjoy modern amenities while being conveniently located near Fort Loudoun, Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, and other local points of interest.
9. Sweetwater Valley Farm
ARTISANAL CHEESE DESTINATION
Sweetwater Valley Farm is a working dairy farm that produces award-winning artisanal cheeses just a short drive from Vonore. Visitors can tour the farm's facilities to learn about the cheese-making process from milk production to aging. The farm store offers cheese tastings and sells a variety of farmstead cheeses along with other local products.
10. Cherohala Skyway
SCENIC MOUNTAIN DRIVE
Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile National Scenic Byway that winds through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests near Vonore. The skyway reaches elevations of over 5,400 feet, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Numerous overlooks, picnic areas, and trailheads along the route provide opportunities to stop and enjoy the pristine wilderness.
11. Bald River Falls
MAJESTIC WATERFALL VISTA
Bald River Falls is a stunning 90-foot waterfall visible from the road just outside Tellico Plains, a short drive from Vonore. The falls create a magnificent cascade of water that can be viewed from a convenient roadside pullout or explored more closely via hiking trails. The area around the falls offers excellent opportunities for photography, picnicking, and swimming during warmer months.
12. Tsali Notch Vineyard
MUSCADINE WINE TASTING
Tsali Notch Vineyard specializes in muscadine grapes and wines in the nearby town of Madisonville. The vineyard's tasting room offers samples of their unique muscadine wines along with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and Chilhowee Mountain. Visitors can tour the vineyards, participate in seasonal u-pick events, and purchase wines and muscadine products to take home.
13. Historic Downtown Madisonville
CHARMING SMALL-TOWN SHOPPING
Historic Downtown Madisonville offers a quaint shopping district filled with unique boutiques, antique stores, and local eateries just a short drive from Vonore. The well-preserved downtown area features historic buildings housing specialty shops selling everything from handcrafted goods to vintage treasures. Visitors can enjoy the friendly small-town atmosphere while browsing for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.
14. The Warehouse BBQ
RUSTIC SMOKEHOUSE DINING
The Warehouse BBQ serves up authentic Tennessee barbecue in a casual, rustic setting in Vonore. The restaurant specializes in slow-smoked meats including ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and chicken complemented by homemade sides and sauces. Local residents and visitors alike appreciate the generous portions, reasonable prices, and friendly service that make this a popular dining destination.
15. Tellico Village
UPSCALE LAKESIDE COMMUNITY
Tellico Village is a premier planned community offering visitors access to championship golf courses, marina facilities, and dining options nearby to Vonore. The community features three 18-hole golf courses designed to challenge players while showcasing the natural beauty of East Tennessee. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the village's restaurants with scenic views of Tellico Lake or explore the well-maintained walking paths throughout the property.