This East Tennessee destination has photo ops sure to make you smile
LOUDON COUNTY, TENNESSEE–JUNE 2019–Loudon County, in east Tennessee, is the perfect location to explore authentic small towns and take in beautiful views. It’s also an outstanding destination for collecting photos along the way, whether you’re looking for selfies with the family, insta-worthy scenes or frameable landscapes. And this picturesque spot between Knoxville and Chattanooga is just a click away, with convenient Interstate access while offering the most scenic and least congested route to the Smokies from I-75 and I-40 East.
While the number one attraction in Loudon County may make you say “cheese” (see IF YOU GO, below) there are plenty of spots here to pose for photos. Put these sites on your must-see locations:
- Loudon County, dubbed the Lakeway to the Smokies, is known for its million-dollar view. From an overlook above Fort Loudon Dam, the view of Fort Loudoun Lake with the Smoky Mountains in the distance is a perfect picture spot to start your journey.
- A colorful, as well as tasty, photo option can be found by focusing on one or more of the 30 flavors of homemade ice cream creations at Tic Toc Ice Cream Parlor (504 Grove Street, Loudon, Tennessee 37774) in downtown Loudon. Having your photo made here on the annual opening day in spring is a badge of honor.
- The Lenoir Cotton Mill (Lenoir City Cotton Mill, Lenoir City, Tennessee 37771), built in 1821, was the remaining building in a complex once occupied by a sawmill, flour mill and depot. All but the cotton mill were destroyed in the Civil War. After it also succumbed to fire, the ruins and site are now part of a public park with museum and is a stop on the walking tour of the historic sites of Lenoir City.
- Deep Well Farm (9567 U.S. 11 East, Lenoir City, Tennessee 37772) is the perfect location for family fun and photos. A corn maze, hayrides, tire swings and a trip to the pumpkin patch are all photo worthy options.
- The Tellico Village Yacht Club (100 Sequoyah Rd, Loudon, Tennessee 37774) is situated on a beautiful peninsula overlooking Tellico Lake and includes a lounge and dining area. Views of the lake are breathtaking from three levels.
It’s a great time to step into the downtowns, historic sites and beautiful countryside of Loudon County. With camera in hand, you’ll capture memories to last a lifetime. Plan your photo journey now. You can find lodging options and more details at VisitLoudonCounty.com.
If you go
No visit to Loudon County would be complete without a stop at these two top attractions:
Sweetwater Valley Farm (17988 W Lee Hwy, Philadelphia, Tennessee 37846) This working dairy farm and cheese factory is a top regional attraction. Approximately 400,000 pounds of cheese is produced annually at Sweetwater Valley Farm. Visitors can sample one of the many award-winning cheeses and even see the cheese-making process through a viewing window.
Tennessee Valley Winery (15606 Hotchkiss Valley Rd, Loudon, Tennesee 37774) Enjoy a free tasting at Tennessee Valley Winery. This is one of the oldest operating family-owned wineries in Tennessee. With its more than 20 wine varieties, Tennessee Valley has earned more than 900 national, regional and local awards.
Where to eat:
A variety of delicious menu items await at these local restaurants:
Greenback Drug Company & Diner (6729 Morganton Rd., Greenback, Tennessee 37742) The Greenback Drugstore has been a community gathering place since 1923. Now it’s a popular diner and a great spot for breakfast or lunch. A menu favorite is the signature grilled Honeybun for dessert.
Le Noir Bistro (123 E Broadway St., Lenoir City Tennessee 37772) is the spot to enjoy lunch with a European twist. Start with the Belgian fries, then choose from a menu filled with unique combinations of Southern staples and European specialties.
Calhoun’s (4550
City Park Dr, Lenoir City, Tennessee 37772) at Fort Loudon Marina is a favorite
for casual burger lunches as well as evening meals with atmosphere. Calhoun’s
offers dockside dining with views of the marina and Fort Loudoun Lake.
At the Tellico Village
Yacht Club (100 Sequoyah Road, Loudon, Tennessee 37774), the Blue
Heron Restaurant is known for its steak and seafood specialties as well as
spectacular lake and mountain views.