Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Monteagle, TN

  • Published 2022/11/07

Monteagle, Tennessee, is a charming mountain town in Franklin, Grundy, and Marion counties that blends rustic charm with modern comfort.

The town is defined by its picturesque valley views and roaring waterfalls, but you’ll also notice the little details that make it so special: the quaint and relaxing downtown area and the tight-knit community.

This quaint town is the perfect place to get away from it all and reward yourself with the relaxing escapade that you deserve!

Monteagle may be a small town, but it’s brimming with tons of natural wonders, history, and scenic vistas.

If you’re planning a trip to this charming city soon, read on for the 20 best things to do in Monteagle, Tennessee!

Get Lost in Nature at South Cumberland State Park

A footbridge and trees at South Cumberland state park.

samray / Shutterstock.com

A trip to Monteagle calls for a nature exploration at the South Cumberland State Park.

This state park spans over 30,000 acres of lush woodlands and scenic marshes, and it has been the go-to outdoor adventure spot since the 1970s.

South Cumberland State Park features tons of activities that the whole family will enjoy, like hiking, primitive camping, sightseeing, and fun festivities.

Picnic area at South Cumberland state park.

samray / Shutterstock.com

A hike through this state park will lead you to some of the most beautiful natural vistas and see the rich flora and fauna of the region.

You can also stop by the visitor center to have a picnic, enjoy some sports, and let the youngsters have their time in the play area.

Marvel on the serene beauty of nature and take a breather from your daily stresses at the South Cumberland State Park.

A waterfall at South Cumberland state park.

Charley Carter / Shutterstock.com

Join Local Events at Monteagle Community Center

What better way to spend a vacation in a small town than getting to know the locals and meeting new people?

If you want to get acquainted with the tight-knit community of Monteagle, this community center is a must-visit!

The Monteagle Community Center is located at Dixie Lee Avenue, where most community gatherings are held.

Get to know a few locals, have a chat, join the fun events, and discover the talented locals of this charming town.

So if you want to socialize, see the charm of Monteagle through its locals, and make new friends, make sure to stop by the Monteagle Community Center.

Spend a Cozy Night in One of Monteagle Cabins

Are you looking for a place where you can cut off your daily cares and enjoy the simple pleasures of life?

Then you book your quick escapade with Monteagle Cabins located just off I-24 along Laurel Lake Drive.

This cozy cabin accommodation in Monteagle has easy access to nearby falls surrounded by scenic natural vistas.

Start your mornings with a freshly brewed coffee while breathing in the cool, crisp air, spend an afternoon exploring, and end your day snuggled near a bonfire under the starry skies.

If that’s your definition of a perfectly spent nature escapade, then book ahead with Monteagle Cabins!

Go on a Hike See the Serene Deer Lick Falls

A mystical waterfall is tied in the lush woodlands between Monteagle and Tracy City.

The Deer Lick Falls can be accessed via a 1.3-kilometer hike through the out and back trail, which can be challenging for some.

The hike going to Deer Lick Falls can be hard because of the steep and slippery trail, but you’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking view of the falls.

Dip your toes in the cold water of the falls while enjoying the relaxing sound of the cascading waters.

You’ll surely have the best time hiking through the meandering path of evergreen forests and see the Deer Lick Falls as a highlight to your trip.

Learn about Military History at Sam H. Werner Military Museum

One of the best ways to honor veterans is learning about their contributions and life stories.

The Sam H. Werner Military Museum is dedicated to remembering and honoring veterans and teaching history to our younger generations.

Located west of Main Street is the quaint museum dedicated to preserving the history of the nation’s military forces, which opened in the spring of 2017.

The museum has a variety of exhibits, such as those that show the different military uniforms worn over the years and other artifacts that tell epic tales of battles fought throughout history.

You’ll get to explore all the different aspects of military life at Sam H. Werner Military Museum—from the big picture down to individual stories.

Book Your Stay at Monteagle Inn and Retreat Center

Are you looking for a place to stay on your little vacation to Monteagle without straying too far away from the town center?

The Monteagle Inn and Retreat Center is conveniently located west of Main Street, close to a range of dining opportunities.

This charming inn combines sophistication with the warm, homey feel for a relaxing stay.

The inn offers all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable stay, like complimentary breakfast, cozy beds, Wi-Fi, and more!

Treat yourself to the elegant atmosphere of the Monteagle Inn and Retreat Center, so book ahead!

Escape the Hustle and Bustle of the Town at The Retreat at Deer Lick Falls

If you’re looking for a place to crash and rest your weary feet after your hike going to Deer Lick Falls, book this cozy accommodation to extend your time away from home.

This charming, tiny home community is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the town, surrounded by the lush woodlands.

The Retreat at Deer Lick Falls offers homey accommodation for visitors where you can take a pause and surround yourself with the beauty of nature.

This tiny home community is located along Summerfield Road, close to a range of hiking trails leading to scenic waterfalls.

Whether you want to spend your stay hiking through nearby trails, or you prefer to get cozy on a tiny home, The Retreat at Dear Lick Falls is the perfect accommodation for you!

Score on Unique Items at I-24 Flea Market

Do you love going out on a hunt for unique items and great finds?

If so, you should check out the range of items offered at I-24 Flea Market located west of Main Street.

The vendors sell a range of items like clothing, antique furniture, knick-knacks, and collectibles that you won’t find anywhere else.

The I-24 Flea Market has a great selection of new and vintage items, as well as a decent amount of food stands if you get hungry while you’re browsing.

Aside from browsing through shops, you’ll surely enjoy the friendly, nostalgic vibe of visiting this flea market in Monteagle.

Wine and Dine at the Historic High Point Restaurant

If you’re looking for the perfect date night location on your trip to Monteagle, check out the High Point Restaurant along Main Street.

Enjoy world-class gourmet combined with the elegant atmosphere of the historic mansion.

The restaurant is housed inside a historic 1929 mansion presumably financed by Al Capone, which still features the original escape hatches and underground tunnels used to transfer liquor during the Prohibition Era.

Delight yourself with a hearty meal paired with a bottle of wine for the perfect date night.

Make sure to include this charming restaurant on your itinerary list because the beautiful location and tasty foods await you!

Shop and Dine at Main Street Monteagle

A trip to Monteagle won’t be complete without strolling through Main Street for a day of shopping and dining!

Monteagle is home to a range of specialty shops offering unique, trendy, and vintage items that you can take home as souvenirs from your trip.

Scour through the shops, meet friendly locals, and take home a great find from your little shopping spree at Main Street Monteagle.

After strolling through the shops, stop by for some grubs in one of the restaurants to delight your tastebuds or have a warm cup of coffee while enjoying the small-town charm of Monteagle.

Main Street Monteagle captures the town’s charm, from its antique stores to its quaint and relaxing cafes and restaurants.

Enjoy the Company of Good Food and Music at The Patio Grill

The Patio Grill, part of Jim Oliver’s Smoke House, is your perfect weekend hangout spot in Monteagle.

Located on West Main Street, you can come and enjoy the entire evening with an array of hot food on the menu, ice-cold beer, and cool live music.

Dine indoors or al fresco and start your meal with savory appetizers like Fried Okra or Fried and Peppered Brussels Sprouts served with Bistro Sauce.

Have plates of filling entrees like Hamburger Steak, Slow Simmered Pulled Pork, or Grilled Center Cut Pork Chops, all served with two sides and Texas Toast.

Also try some sandwiches, drinks, and dessert selections, and order food on their Kids’ Menu for your little ones.

Enjoy great live music performances for free with Music On The Mountain every Friday night starting with the Main Show followed by the Songwriter Show later in the evening; likewise, enjoy Happy Hour on late Saturday afternoons before the shows.

The Patio Grill’s Music on the Mountain features great local talents and established Nashville songwriters, so you’ll surely get to catch good music.

Buy Gift Items at Hallelujah Pottery

If you’re looking for gift ideas or something to remember on your trip to town, drop by Hallelujah Pottery.

Located in a log cabin on West Main Street, you’ll find an assortment of items like candles, vases, bowls, and unique creative pieces made by local artisans.

Check out Full Circle candles handcrafted and made with naturally-sourced materials like soy wax, essential oils, and Phthalate-free fragrances.

The candle business was started by Debbie Blinder and is committed to more than just selling its products.

It’s recognized for its community efforts, providing a free pantry and a library to support local families in need.

So be sure to visit the store and buy gift items from Hallelujah Pottery.

Drop by the Monteagle Mountain Market for Arts & Crafts

Arts and crafts enthusiasts will have a swell time at the Monteagle Mountain Market for Arts & Crafts event.

The market hosts various handmade products by the best artisans in the Southeast area.

You can drop by and find the market in Hannah Pickett Park with free parking and admission.

Browse through over a hundred skilled crafters showcasing their works including fine arts, pottery, leather, and so much more.

Find your choice of jewelry pieces, toys, embroidered items, quilts, and other items you can gift or take home as tokens.

And of course, events are merrier with lines of delicious food on the market like barbecue and burgers, and desserts like funnel cakes and homemade ice cream.

This yearly festive market happens on the last weekend of July so do visit if you’re in town.

Eat Out with the Family at The Mountain Goat Market

The Mountain Goat Market is not a market but an incredibly eclectic yet charming restaurant.

Step inside and you’ll be welcomed by colorful walls and amusing decor, perfect for pictures, too.

Aside from the nifty ambiance, you’ll enjoy an assortment of tasty food on their menu.

Go for an Elana Ruz made with honey turkey, strawberry jam, and cream cheese served on a french baguette.

Likewise, try the Blazin’ Club with buffalo chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and pepper jack cheese, served on sourdough.

You can order other tasty sandwiches and also get them in paninis or wraps, make it gluten-free, or add chips and drinks.

Little ones can have their Little Goat sandwich meals, too, like PB&J, Buttermonkey, Grilled Cheese, or Turkey or Ham and Cheddar.

Choose from their salad servings like Garden, Caesar, Go Greek, and Strawberry Spinach, with additions of Grilled Chicken, Avocado, or a scoop of Chicken Salad.

The Mountain Goat Market also serves delicious pizza flavors like Margherita, Herbivore, Chicka Boom, Lu-wow, and more, with healthier gluten-free or strombol options.

Find Vintage Goods at The Amish Hippie

Signage of Amish Hippie

James R. Martin / Shutterstock.com

Love vintage? Then, head off to The Amish Hippie on Main Street.

You’ll be fascinated once you arrive at this unique shop, with the big quirky sign you surely won’t miss.

This vintage shop offers items from clothes and accessories to Amish-made candles and soaps, glassware, and journals.

Browse through the items and you’re sure to get plenty of good finds like old movie posters, keepsakes, and fun-looking gifts.

Items quickly come and go so you’ll find rare gems each time.

The Amish Hippie is more than a shop but a fun place to visit, too.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Cross the Sewanee Natural Bridge

The stone arch of Sewanee Natural Bridge.

Gabriel Quiles / Shutterstock.com

If you only have a few minutes to spare for a side trip, but you want to see something fascinating, check out the Sewanee Natural Bridge!

This fascinating natural bridge is a hidden gem located just 15 minutes outside Monteagle.

Stone arch of Sewanee Natural Bridge, and the trees around it.

Globalaura / Shutterstock.com

The Sewanee Natural Bridge is a natural sandstone arch that’s 25-feet high that spans up to 50 feet.

The natural bridge formed because of a giant sinkhole that naturally eroded, forming an arch.

The bridge is only a few steps away from the parking lot, which is convenient if you want to stop by for quick sightseeing and picture-taking.

View of the Sewanee Natural Bridge arch.

Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

Marvel at the Picturesque Valley Views at Green’s View

A 10-minute drive to Green’s View from Monteagle is worth it once you get to see the breathtaking view of the mountains and green lands.

This scenic spot in Sewanee is a must-visit if you’re looking for the perfect side trip in Tennessee, where you can enjoy some time to breathe in the fresh air.

Hike the trails leading to this scenic overlook and rest your weary feet in one of the benches as you marvel at the fascinating sight of the valleys.

Even though pictures don’t do justice in this marvelous place, don’t forget to snap some selfies with the beautiful natural background.

Don’t forget to pack some snacks so you can enjoy a lunch with a great view in this serene location just 10 minutes outside of Monteagle.

Spend a Quiet Time at The Cross

View of The Cross from the bottom up.

Glen Jacobs / Shutterstock.com

Are you looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of the town?

If so, you should visit The Cross at Sewanee, that’s 15 minutes away from Monteagle.

This beautiful cross monument offers a heartwarming experience close to nature where you can spend a quiet time.

Silhoutte of The Cross.

samray / Shutterstock.com

The Cross offers a breathtaking mountain top view that overlooks the nearby towns.

This hidden gem in Tennessee is a must-visit if you want some time to meditate and breathe in the fresh, crisp air.

Go Ziplining at Bigfoot Adventure TN

Amp up your outdoor adventure with some thrilling fun at the Bigfoot Adventure TN in Tracy City!

Just 15 minutes outside of Monteagle is this adventure park where you can enjoy a rush of adrenaline and other exciting activities.

Bigfoot Adventure TN features an expansive 500-acre land where you can hike, camp, and explore!

Tee off in their disc golf course, see the Bigfoot Waterfall, and go fishing in this all-in-one park.

Of course, don’t forget the thrilling zipline experience and soar above lush forests.

This destination should make it to your itinerary list to add a bit of adventure on your side trip to Tracy City.

Experience a Unique Live Music Concert at The Caverns

The Caverns at Pelham boasts a unique musical experience that you can only experience in Tennessee.

This unique music concert venue combines world-class talents and the otherworldly beauty of this prehistoric venue which is just a 20-minute drive from Monteagle.

The natural acoustics of the cave set the mood for events in a unique, intimate setting.

Grab a drink and enjoy your time in this underground music venue for “The Greatest Show Under Earth.”

Aside from watching live music concerts, you can take a tour of the cave before the show, where you can marvel at the natural wonders of the cave.

Watching a live music performance and touring the cave at The Caverns is truly the best experience you can add on your trip to Monteagle!

Final Thoughts

Monteagle, Tennessee, is a quaint, laid-back town offering lots of exploration opportunities, relaxation spots, and scenic natural vistas, making for a memorable quick vacation.

This charming town is the perfect place to unplug from the hustle and bustle of big cities and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

So if you’re planning on a trip to this charming city soon, make sure to reference this list for a trip with no dull moments!

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