Our Tennessee vacation guide highlights the top things to do in Mountain City, Tennessee, a charming destination with plenty of options for adventure and entertainment.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains or an exciting daytrip, Mountain City has something to offer all types of traveler.
If you love going on a road trip, Roan Mountain is just an hour away from Mountain City. Take Hwy 67 and explore things to do at Roan Mountain State Park.
Be sure to read on to learn more about our favorite things to do in Mountain City, TN.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, Mountain City is the perfect spot! Its picturesque mountain views and serene atmosphere make it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
What is Mountain City, TN, Known For?
Mountain City, TN, is the highest city in the state, with an elevation gain of 2,418 ft. It is known for its annual Fall Foliage Festival, which celebrates the changing of leaves each year. The festival includes arts and crafts booths, a parade, live music, and more.
Visitors can also participate in various outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing. In addition, Mountain City is located near the historic Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site and Museum, which provides an opportunity to learn about the region’s rich history.
There are also many scenic drives in the area that showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful getaway, Mountain City has something for everyone.
Things To Do In Mountain City Tennessee
Check out these fun and unique things to do in Mountain City, Tennessee.
Doe Mountain Recreation Area & ATV Trail System is a great place to explore the beautiful mountain terrain of northeast Tennessee. With 50 miles of trails to be used by hikers, ATV/UTV riders, dirt bikes, mountain bikes, and horses, Doe Mountain offers something for everyone.
Whether you're looking for an easy trail ride or want to challenge yourself on some technical single track, Doe Mountain has it all.
Don't forget to wear an ATV helmet so you're always safe on the trails!
Johnson County Center for the Arts brings a wide range of artistic performances and events to the community. They host a variety of concerts, plays, and art exhibits throughout the year featuring local and national talent. Be sure to check it out!
Long Journey Home Festival in Mountain City, Tennessee, is an annual event celebrating the music, culture, and history of the Appalachian Mountains.
The festival features a variety of live music, from bluegrass to gospel to folk and rock, as well as other entertainment such as clogging, square dancing, and storytelling that your whole family will surely love.
If you are in the area and up for a beautiful drive and interesting adventure, head to nearby Bristol and visit the Bristol Motor Speedway.
A little over an hour from Mountain City, you will find the historic race track.
From its beginnings as a dirt race track in 1961, the track has evolved into a world-class facility with modern amenities and grandstands that can accommodate almost 160,000 spectators. Some things you can do at the speedway are:
- Attend a NASCAR race
- Take a tour of the track
- Visit the museum
- Watch a race from the grandstands
- Enjoy a concert at the speedway
Ralph Stout Park in Mountain City, Tennessee, is a wonderfully serene spot to take a stroll. This public park is home to some of the most stunning mountain views in the region, and its sprawling paths are perfect for leisurely walks.
During the spring and summer, wildflowers and foliage decorate the landscape, adding to its beauty. You can go hiking, fishing, and even take a dip in the local swimming hole.
There are also plenty of picnic tables and playgrounds for kids and the whole family to enjoy.
If you're a plant lover, you're going to love Mountain View Nursery. It's a one-stop shop for all your gardening needs. You'll find everything you need to create a beautiful outdoor paradise, from plants, trees, shrubs, and flowers to soil, mulch, fertilizers, tools, and more.
In addition to the great selection of plants they carry, you'll also find helpful advice from their knowledgeable staff. They can help you select the right plants for your climate and soil, as well as provide tips on proper planting and care.
Visit them today to start turning your outdoor space into an oasis. You won't regret it!
Love scenic mountain drives? Then I dare you to take the drive up Hwy. 421 to Mountain City. This curvy, scenic drive is not for "The Snake" for nothing. It may not be for the faint of heart, but the view is rewarding.
Aside from their lunch and dinner menus, they offer scrumptious desserts and amazing coffee. The Strawberry Eclair and Banana Pudding Cheesecake are to die for so if you have a sweet tooth, then a visit to Suba's Restaurant is a must!
*Desserts change seasonally so items may not always be available.
If you love wine and pizza, then you'll definitely have the time of your life at the Sangria Saturday Events at Watauga Lake Winery! Check them out and have a taste of their award-winning wines!
And lastly, Roan State Park is just an hour away from Mountain City, TN, which offers a lot of activities for you and the whole family. From hiking to camping with a view, there's something for you here at Roan Mountain State Park!
Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Planning to Visit the Smoky Mountains? Get This FREE Checklist Now!
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If you travel with kids, you know how hard it is to keep them in their seats during road trips. You might want to check out these printable road trip activity packs to keep your kids entertained throughout the trip.
If you’re looking for more things to do in Tennessee, you might want to check out these fun things to do in Knoxville, TN, so you can start planning your vacation.
