Running along Interstate 75 in East Tennessee is Highway 11. Here you can quickly jump off of Interstate 75 and enjoy a more relaxing and scenic drive and discover some fun travel spots for the entire family. We start our tour just south of Knxoville, Tennessee and include the towns of Loudon, Philadelphia, Sweetwater, Athens, and Cleveland:
Loudon County Museum: This museum tells the story of Loudon County’s history, from its Native American roots to the present day.
Fort Loudoun State Historic Park: This park is the site of Fort Loudoun, a British fort that was built in 1756 and played a role in the French and Indian War.
The Lost Sea: This underground lake is the largest in the southeastern United States and offers boat tours, cave tours, and mining experiences.
Sweetwater Depot Museum: This museum is housed in a historic train depot and tells the story of Sweetwater’s railroad history
Sweetwater Welcome Center: This visitor center offers information on the city’s attractions, including the Sweetwater Valley Trail, which is a 10-mile paved trail that runs through the city.
Cherokee National Forest: This forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting
Athens Regional Library and Museum: This library and museum is home to a variety of exhibits on the history of Athens and McMinn County, including the McMinn County Hall of Fame.
Athens City Park: This park offers a variety of amenities, including a playground, walking trails, and a duck pond
Ocoee River: This river is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Cherahola Skyway: This scenic highway offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.