In the foothills of the Smokies, you will find a charming town full of Southern hospitality. Cleveland, Tennessee, provides many opportunities for outdoor exploration of any kind. Besides having fun in nature, you can shop, learn Tennessee history and enjoy plenty of entertainment. Visitors appreciate the local cuisine and the proximity this city offers to other major cities and parks.
Top 8 Attractions
Whether you seek things to do near Cleveland, Tennessee, with kids or destinations for adults, the city gives many options to suit your tastes. Top picks in the area include:
- Museum Center at 5ive Points: This attraction tells the story of the Ocoee Region. It is free to the public and hosts various events and programs like a history happy hour.
- Revolve Pickleball: Head to this indoor pickleball court to play a spirited game at one of 13 indoor courts. One of the courts even has an outdoor surface.
- Main Street Shopping: Downtown Cleveland offers plenty of shopping opportunities, including Brik Brak’s Antiques, Element Women’s Boutique and Haskell Interiors.
- Art House: This nonprofit arts center is free to visit in Cleveland, Tennessee. It presents visual and creative arts programs for all ages and skill levels.
- Jumpin’ Junction: This indoor fun center features bounce houses, slides and other toys, giving kids a place to run and play.
- Moss Rose Art: Two local artists own and operate this art studio. It features a gallery and studio open by appointment, where you can browse and purchase art.
- High Point Climbing and Fitness: Get a taste of adventure at this climbing gym. It holds classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced climbers.
- Hiwassee River Heritage Center: Learn about the Cherokee, the area’s earliest settlers, and pass through eras of history through the Trail of Tears and the Civil War.
Outdoor Pursuits
You can find many outdoor things to do near Cleveland, Tennessee, for couples and families, including:
- Rafting, canoeing and floating
- Hiking and walking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Biking
- Golfing
Red Clay State Park is a prominent spot for outdoor adventurers. It has hiking trails and replicas of 19th-century Cherokee buildings, like a council house and sleeping huts. The park also has picnic areas. Additionally, you can visit the Hiwassee / Ocee Scenic River State Park. Attractions here include canoeing, rafting and floating.
For more laid-back outdoor activities, try a local park or greenspace like the Cleveland/Bradley County Greenway. It has a network of paved trails for biking or walking, with a park area along the route. For a kid-friendly thing to do in Cleveland, Tennessee, check out Fletcher Park, which offers a nature trail and pavilion.
If you enjoy golfing, head to the green at Flagstone Golf Club. It includes a driving range, putting area, chipping green and 18 holes of golfing. Try a different kind of golfing at Minnis Hollow, a disc golf course with 18 holes.
Anglers can check out fishing opportunities in local lakes and rivers. Fishing is best in the spring and summer, offering catches like bass and trout.
Tennessee Cuisine
To indulge in the local cuisine, Cleveland has many restaurants where you can fill up on delectable meals, such as:
- The Juicy Seafood: The waitstaff will serve you a plate of delicious seafood seasoned to perfection and provide attentive service. The restaurant features ocean-themed decor and includes a bar for those seeking things to do near Cleveland, Tennessee, for adults.
- Farmhouse Cleveland: This family-friendly restaurant is a great place to go for a meal that tastes home-cooked. It features American classics and a community atmosphere.
- Old Fort: Order some Southern comfort food, served hot and fresh at this Cleveland joint. It has excellent prices and is family-owned with a long history in the local area.
- Naan House: This dining establishment features Indian-inspired cuisine. When you visit, get quick service and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Misfit Tacos: Get a new twist on the traditional taco at this restaurant. It offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere with friendly staff ready to help you find your favorite eats.
Festivities and Fun
If you want to take a break from exploring the local sights, check out what is happening in Cleveland during your stay. The city hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, so something fun is likely happening nearby.
If you visit during the summer and want things to do near Cleveland, Tennessee, today, consider visiting the Bradley County Farmers Market. It runs Saturdays and Tuesdays throughout the summer, selling fresh produce and other goods. As fall begins, check out the Polk County Rodeo for events like calf roping, barrel racing and breakaway bronc riding.
Experience the Kid Entrepreneur Christmas Marketplace, a unique thing to do near Cleveland, Tennessee. Start your holiday shopping and support young business owners. Also, the Whispering Giants Intertribal Native Festival celebrates Native American Heritage Month in December and offers events like dancing and music.
Nearby Wonders
Outside of Cleveland, day trips present more opportunities to explore the wonders around you. If you are down for a drive, you can reach Great Smoky Mountains National Park in about two and a half hours by car. See sights like Clingman’s Dome and Cades Cove.
For a slightly shorter trip, check out Pigeon Forge or Knoxville, which are about two hours away by car. You will find many kid-friendly activities, like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. Knoxville also has attractions such as the Knoxville Museum of Art and the Knoxville Botanical Gardens.
Local Insights
As you are planning your visit to Cleveland, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider visiting the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce for recommendations on things to do.
- If you venture to more remote areas, like Red Clay State Park, be prepared to possibly lose cell service. Download maps or other resources you may need in advance.
- Take advantage of the range of opportunities in the city and surroundings, from learning local history to plunging down the rapids in a kayak.
Visit the City With Spirit
Cleveland has earned the nickname “the City with Spirit” for its inspiring history of human triumphs and conflicts. Through it all, its people have maintained a passion for the place they call home. Discover the city behind the nickname and its gorgeous surroundings with a visit to Tennessee. Reserve a site at a nearby Kampgrounds of America for a comfortable place to stay during your vacation.
About the Author: Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.
