Adventures for Your Weekend at The Caverns
While you're here for that concert at The Caverns, here are some quick and easy "must see" adventures...
You've booked your tickets for a great show in a truly one-of-a-kind venue. Can it get any better than that?!?
If you have some downtime to fill -- or were maybe smart enough to book an extra day or two -- you'll find a LOT more to explore. The Caverns are part of Tennessee's South Cumberlands Mountains of Adventure. Here's a small taste of all there is to explore...
The Caverns Cave Tour
Whether you arrive a day early or just want to hang around an extra day, you need to see the "other side of The Caverns”! The guided cave tour first takes you into Big Room Cave, a vast, open space that spans three football fields in length. As you trek the lighted path, you’ll learn about cave geology, the critters that call the cave home, and fascinating local history facts about Grundy County and Paynes Cove. The highlight of the Big Room Tour is experiencing total darkness inside the cave, accompanied by an immersive audio presentation about cave history and mythology throughout the ages.
The second half of the tour takes you into the world-renowned venue cave, Big Mouth! Here, you’ll learn about the founding of the PBS series The Caverns Sessions (formerly Bluegrass Underground), how Big Room Cave was selected as its new home, and interesting facts about The Caverns.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Adventure Tours offer an exciting opportunity. You’ll strap on helmets and knee pads to venture deeper into Big Room Cave! The Adventure Tour takes you through Tombstone Pass into a section of the cave featuring an underground river and an abundance of unique formations. Adventure Tours must be booked in advance by calling the gift shop, so plan ahead if this sounds like your kind of adventure!
Exploring Scenic Pelham
The Caverns is located in scenic and rural Pelham, Tennessee, where the Elk River, one of Tennessee's top five rivers (by length) begins. Pelham doesn't have a downtown, per se, but along US Highway 41 (part of the ledgendary "Dixie Highway"), you'll find a couple of unique and tasty places to visit.
Check out Simply Southern Cafe or Tess's Kitchen Cafe, both on US 41. Both feature excellent Southern fare; Tess also offers pizza and Asian dishes. (An insider's tip: Tess's is open Tuesday thru Saturday for lunch and dinner; Simply Southern is open 10 am to 2 pm Monday thru Friday, and is closed Saturdays and Sundays.)
But there's SO much more to do here...
Whether you’re wrapping up a cave tour or waiting for the gates to open before a show, there’s plenty to explore nearby. Let us help you make the most of your time with these must-see spots in Tennessee’s South Cumberland!
Waterfalls Worth the Walk
Have a few hours to spare? Greeter Falls at Savage Gulf East in Altamont is a fantastic choice. It’s a 20-minute hike from the parking lot to the base of the falls, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and the chance to descend an iconic spiral staircase—a Tennessee treasure!
For a breathtaking overlook, head north to Beersheba Springs and visit the Stone Door at Savage Gulf North. This 2-mile round-trip hike includes a partially paved path, making it an easy journey to an awe-inspiring vista. While you’re there, take a quick stroll to Laurel Falls, located just behind the ranger station.
If you’re on a tighter schedule, the Grundy Forest Day Loop in Tracy City is a great option. This moderate 2-mile trail offers a taste of everything, from cascading waterfalls like Schoolhouse Falls and Blue Hole Falls to historic landmarks like an old CCC camp. It’s also the starting point for the Fiery Gizzard Trail, named one of America’s top 10 hiking trails by Backpacker Magazine. Just be sure to stick to the loop unless you’re prepared for a more challenging trek.
Dive Into Local History
Step back in time with a visit to the Grundy County Heritage Center in Tracy City. This museum offers a fascinating look at the region’s history, from Swiss settlers to the coal mining boom. It’s also home to Tennessee’s South Cumberland Visitor Center, where you can find maps, brochures, and tips for exploring the area.
While you’re in town, treat yourself to a sweet or savory snack from the Dutch Maid Bakery, the oldest family-owned bakery in Tennessee. Don’t forget to stop by Henry Flury & Sons Grocery, a community staple since the early 20th century.
Eats, Architecture & Overlooks
Just up I-24 from Pelham are the towns of Monteagle and Sewanee, with more great food & drink options, from sandwiches and pizza at Mountain Goat Market to fine dining at Al Capone's old hideout, High Point Restaurant. Or indulge in classy cocktails at OddFellow's, the backroom speakeasy of Shenanigans.
The University of the South in Sewanee has been named one of the most beautiful campuses in America, with spectacular architecture like All Saints Chapel and Chapel of the Apostles and amazing overlooks like The Memorial Cross and Green's View.
Maybe you should extend your stay!
So make your visit to The Caverns a longer weekend, or even a full week! There's so much more to see and do here in Tennessee's South Cumberland -- so create your own awesome exploration of the Mountains of Adventure!
No matter how much time you have, there’s always something special to discover near The Caverns. Have questions or need recommendations? We’re here to help you make your visit unforgettable!