Want a peaceful, small-town escape in East Tennessee? Head to Athens! Nestled between Knoxville and Chattanooga, Athens offers Southern charm, Civil War history, family-friendly parks, and scenic country drives. Whether you're exploring the historic downtown or enjoying nearby natural beauty, Athens is a welcoming spot with a rich past and laid-back vibe.
Athens, TN Highlights:
- For History Buffs: Visit the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum – Discover exhibits on local heritage, the Civil War, and the famous “Battle of Athens.”
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Explore the Eureka Trail – A flat, scenic walking and biking trail between Athens and Englewood.
- For Families: Play at Athens Regional Park – A large park with trails, a lake, sports facilities, and playgrounds.
- For Foodies: Tour Mayfield Dairy Farms – Take a guided tour and enjoy a scoop of their famous ice cream.
- For Culture Seekers: Wander Downtown Athens – Browse boutiques, enjoy local dining, and admire historic architecture.
When I like to visit Athens, TN
The best time to visit Athens is in spring (April–May) and fall (September–October), when the weather is mild and the Appalachian foothills burst with seasonal color. Summers are warm and great for enjoying parks and trails.
My tips for getting to Athens, TN
- If you are traveling by car: Athens is located off I-75, about 1 hour from both Knoxville and Chattanooga.
- By Plane: Fly into McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville (60 minutes) or Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (65 minutes) and rent a car.
- By Bus: Nearby cities offer bus service with car rental options available for final travel to Athens.
Where I like to stay in Athens, TN
- Hampton Inn Athens – Reliable comfort with complimentary breakfast and an outdoor pool.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Athens – Clean, modern rooms with a fitness center and easy interstate access.
- Classic Inns or B&Bs – Consider locally run inns or bed-and-breakfasts for a personalized experience.
Best Things to Do in Athens, TN
1. Mayfield Dairy Farm
"Tour the dairy plant and savor fresh ice cream on a fun family trip."
Mayfield Dairy Farm is a 100-year old dairy farm located in Athens, TN, on I-75, between Knoxville and Chattanooga. Stop by the Mayfield Visitors Center and take a tour of the farm, before tasting the best, freshest ice cream you have ever tasted. They have many delicious flavors and also have a small gift shop with souvenirs and unique gifts. Mayfield Dairy Farm was established in 1910 when T.B. Bayfield Jr. bought 45 Jersey cows and started supplying his neighbors in Athens with fresh milk and cream. The farm is still in the family hands, with new generation running things. The milk production is now modern and the ice cream business grew to become one of the well-recognized brands and favorite treat for the folks in Athens and surrounding areas.
806 E Madison Ave, Athens, TN 37303, Phone: 423-745-2151
2. McMinn County Living Heritage Museum
"Explore local history and admire vintage artifacts in this quiet, affordable cultural attraction."
Located in downtown Athens, Tennessee, McMinn County Living Heritage Museum is a museum of local culture and history founded in 1982. The Museum is a private, non-for profit organization. It has 30 permanent exhibits with more than 10,000 artifacts that portray the culture and history of Southeast Tennessee in the period from the 1700's to 1940's. There are also four rotating displays that change throughout the year. Each exhibit has a unique storyline about events and people that made the difference in the region. The Museum also offers educational programs and special events.
522 W Madison Ave, Athens, TN 37303, Phone: 423-745-0329
Attractions for Couples
3. The Gardens of Sunshine Hollow, Athens, TN
If you think like me:
"Walk along flower-filled paths and enjoy a romantic spring visit in scenic gardens."
The Gardens of Sunshine Hollow is an event and wedding venue in Athens, Tennessee. The location right between Knoxville and Chattanooga makes it popular for all big celebrations and events in the area. . While being conveniently near the cities, visitors can also enjoy a taste of nature – the property has some of the most beautiful and largest private gardens in East Tennessee. The magnificent gardens are filled with more than 2000 perennials such as roses, azaleas and lilacs. Around the gardens are well-maintained grounds with two lakes and a forest. There is a wedding pergola surrounded by hanging baskets filled with seasonal blooms. If the weather turns bad, the wedding can be moved to the ballroom inside.
198 Co Rd 52, Athens, TN 37303, Phone: 423-745-4289
4. Swift Museum Foundation
"See restored vintage planes and explore aviation history in this exciting, unusual museum."
The Swift Museum, located at the McMinn County airport in Athens, Tennessee, is a museum dedicated to the display, restoration and preservation of Globe and Temco Swift aircraft. The museum displays a number of Swift aircraft including the prototype #1, several production examples and Swifts modified between 1946 and 1951. There are also two T-35 Buckaroo USAF trainers. The military versions of the Swift trainers were tested in the early 1950s by the USAF. One of the T-35’s was donated to the Museum by the Saudi Arabian Air Force. The Museum present Swift’s training planes produced from the start in 1946 to today. The Swift Museum Foundation collection of Swifts is considered the best in the world. While there is a Swift hanging in the Smithsonian for everyone’s viewing, at the Swift Museum visitors can stand right next to these historic planes and look into the cockpit.
Swift Museum Foundation, 223 Co Rd 552, Athens, TN 37303, Phone: 423-745-9547
5. Loch Low-Minn Scuba Diving Resort
My top 5:
"Dive crystal-clear waters and discover underwater sights during an adventurous weekend outing."
Loch Low-Minn Scuba Diving Resort in Athens, Tennessee provides unique experience for beginners and experience divers to explore beautiful, crystal clear ten acre quarry lake. What makes the lake especially exciting for divers is the fact that it is home to the ancient species of fish called paddlefish, as well as many other aquatic species. Paddlefish has been introduced to the lake in cooperation with the Tennessee Aquarium and the Choo Choo Diving and Aquatic Center in Chattanooga, TN and it can grow to six feet. The beautiful lake is nestled in the lush wooded hills of East Tennessee and its crystal clear waters have an amazing average visibility of 35 feet, so the divers are sure to see much of its fish and other attractions. Besides paddlefish, the lake is home bluegills, bass, catfish, and an eclectic range of artifacts.
116 Co Rd 420, Athens, TN 37303, Phone: 423-746-0798
Where to Eat in Athens, TN
- The Butcher’s Market and Deli – Delicious sandwiches and local meats in a casual atmosphere.
- Los Amigos – Popular spot for Mexican food with generous portions and friendly service.
- Crème Hut – Iconic drive-in known for burgers, chili dogs, and old-school milkshakes.
If you are interested in local events:
- Downtown Athens Cruise-In (Monthly, April–October) – Classic cars, music, and community fun.
- McMinn County Living Heritage Festival (September) – Celebrate Appalachian traditions with crafts, food, and storytelling.
- Christmas Open House (November) – Holiday cheer, festive décor, and special shopping events downtown.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Athens, Tennessee:
- Etowah (15–20 min) – Ride the Hiwassee River Rail or visit the L&N Depot & Railroad Museum.
- Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge (30 min) – Birdwatching paradise, especially during the winter migration of sandhill cranes.
- Sweetwater (25–30 min) – Explore America’s largest underground lake at The Lost Sea Adventure.
- Englewood (15 min) – Browse antique shops and local cafés in a peaceful small-town setting.
- Calhoun’s Farm Markets (20–25 min) – Stop by for fresh produce, jams, and handmade goods at local roadside stands.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Athens located?
- Athens is a small city in McMinn County, Tennessee.
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What natural landmarks surround Athens?
- The city is surrounded by the Unicoi Mountains, the Tennessee River, and Starr Mountain.
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Where can visitors learn about the history of McMinn County?
- The McMinn County Living Heritage Museum is a great place to learn about the culture and history of the area.
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What aviation-related museum is located in Athens?
- Athens is also home to the Swift Museum Foundation, a museum that shows the history of famous Swift training planes.
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Where can visitors enjoy outdoor activities like fishing and scuba diving?
- Loch Low-Minn Quarry Lake is a great spot for fishing and scuba diving.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Comfort Inn Athens – A comfortable and centrally located stay.
Visit the Mayfield Dairy Farms – Take a tour and enjoy fresh ice cream.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor activities.
Hampton Inn Athens – A great stay with modern amenities.
Explore the nearby Cherokee National Forest – Hike, fish, or camp in beautiful surroundings.
Fall (September-November) – Cool air and vibrant autumn colors.
Holiday Inn Express Athens – A cozy and convenient option.
Drive the Cherohala Skyway – Experience breathtaking fall foliage and mountain views.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and festive, great for a quiet getaway.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Athens – A warm and inviting winter retreat.
Attend the Downtown Christmas Parade – Enjoy holiday lights, music, and festive celebrations.
Athens, TN is a one-hour day trip from Knoxville (58.4 miles via I-40 and I-75):
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