Carly & Michael
Things To Do & Places To Eat
Norris Dam State Park-Fall Color Cruise October 18th-20th
Enjoy the fall colors on Norris Lake by taking a leisurely boat ride with your family, friends and local friendly park ranger. Bring a pair of binoculars to view fall’s colors and wildlife while learning about the area’s history. Boat rides last an hour. Fall color boat rides are scheduled the last two weeks of October and scheduled times are 11:00 a.m., 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 p.m. each day. Ticket prices are $7 for adults and $5 for children five and under. TO MAKE RESERVATIONS PLEASE CALL THE PARK OFFICE AT 865-425-4500 PLEASE ARRIVE 15 MINUTES EARLY TO BOARD THE BOAT! PAYMENT FOR THIS RIDE WILL BE DUE WHEN YOU BOARD. Meet at: Norris Dam Marina
Museum of Appalachia
The Museum of Appalachia is a living history museum — a pioneer mountain farm-village that lends voice to the people of Southern Appalachia through the artifacts and stories they left behind. Founded in 1969 by John Rice Irwin, the Museum is now a non-profit organization, and a Smithsonian Affiliate museum. They offer self-guided tours, and are open every day of the week. They also have a restaurant on site that I have heard is tasty!
Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue
Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue was originally founded as a zoo. It was not long before we started getting calls from people asking us if we would give their exotic pet a home because they could no longer care for it. Quickly we saw the need for an exotic animal rescue and the process to become a rescue began. We are now a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. We rescue exotic animals from across the United States; approximately 98% of our animals are rescues. We work diligently to provide a safe, loving, forever home for them. The number of exotic animals in desperate need of a home is growing daily. Each of our rescues has their own story. Many times people get exotic animals as pets and realize that they cannot meet the animal’s needs. Sadly, these animals are dropped off at shelters and cannot be put up for adoption. If we do not pick the animals up they are euthanized. Some animals are neglected, abused or abandoned. Whatever the reason, we are here to help the exotic animals!
Norris Dam State Park-Hiking
The park has fifteen trails. They range in length from .5 mile to 5 miles and vary in degrees of difficulty from easy to difficult. These trails traverse ridge tops, valleys, hollows, and the lake-shore. Mountain biking and equestrian use is available on designated trails. You can also trek across the dam. Trail maps are available at the park office.
VEGA Cafe & Smokehaus
I have eaten at this restaurant! It was very good! The chef actually used to work with one of my best friend's husband. I would definitely stop by here if you plan to eat out!
Sweet Cafe
I haven't actually eaten here but it looks good and they have breakfast!