Kimball TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kimball, Tennessee.
1. Rock City
ICONIC NATURAL LANDMARK
Rock City is a magnificent natural attraction featuring massive ancient rock formations, enchanting gardens, and panoramic views. Visitors can walk along the Enchanted Trail that winds through the rock formations and leads to Lover's Leap, where on clear days you can see seven states. The attraction also includes Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village, making it appealing for visitors of all ages.
2. Ruby Falls
UNDERGROUND WATERFALL WONDER
Ruby Falls is America's deepest commercial cave and tallest underground waterfall open for public viewing. The guided tour takes visitors 1,120 feet beneath Lookout Mountain to witness the 145-foot waterfall illuminated by colorful lights. After viewing the falls, guests can enjoy the Ruby Falls Village, Blue Heron Overlook, and panoramic views of the Tennessee Valley.
3. Tennessee Aquarium
FRESHWATER AND MARINE EXHIBITS
The Tennessee Aquarium offers an immersive journey through freshwater and saltwater environments in two distinct buildings. Visitors can observe thousands of animals including penguins, alligators, otters, and a wide variety of fish species in naturalistic habitats. The aquarium also features an IMAX theater showing educational films and special exhibits throughout the year.
4. Russell Cave National Monument
PREHISTORIC ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Russell Cave National Monument preserves one of the oldest known human habitation sites in the United States, used continuously for over 10,000 years. The cave's entrance shelter served as home to various prehistoric peoples from the Archaic to Woodland periods. Visitors can explore the museum, take a guided tour of the cave entrance, and hike the surrounding woodland trails.
5. Adventure Off Road Park
THRILLING OUTDOOR RECREATION
Adventure Off Road Park offers 500 acres of trails designed for off-road vehicles including ATVs, UTVs, and 4x4 trucks. The park features diverse terrain with mud pits, rocky climbs, wooded trails, and scenic overlooks of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can bring their own vehicles or arrange for rentals and guided tours for an authentic off-road adventure.
6. Foster Falls
STUNNING NATURAL WATERFALL
Foster Falls is a magnificent 60-foot waterfall cascading into a deep plunge pool surrounded by lush forest within South Cumberland State Park. The area features a swimming hole at the base of the falls, rock climbing routes on the adjacent sandstone cliffs, and access to the Fiery Gizzard Trail. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, camping, and hiking while taking in views of this scenic natural wonder.
7. Marion County Park
RECREATIONAL WATERFRONT PARK
Marion County Park offers beautiful waterfront recreational opportunities on Nickajack Lake, part of the Tennessee River. The park features boat ramps, fishing piers, picnic areas, and camping facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy water activities, wildlife viewing, and relaxation in this scenic riverside setting.
8. Jasper City Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY PARK
Jasper City Park serves as the central recreational area for the community with sports facilities, playground equipment, and open green spaces. The park hosts local events, festivals, and gatherings throughout the year. Visitors appreciate the walking paths, picnic areas, and relaxed small-town atmosphere.
9. Nickajack Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Nickajack Park provides access to Nickajack Lake with facilities for boating, fishing, and water recreation. The park offers views of the surrounding mountains and opportunities to observe wildlife including the famous Nickajack Cave bat population. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, shoreline trails, and serene natural settings along this TVA-managed reservoir.
10. Trials Training Center
MOTORCYCLE SKILLS VENUE
The Trials Training Center is a premier destination for motorcycle enthusiasts offering specialized training and events on 600 acres of varied terrain. The facility hosts national and international competitions including the annual Tennessee Knockout Extreme Enduro. Visitors can participate in riding schools, watch competitions, or ride the trails designed for different skill levels.
11. Southern Belle Riverboat
HISTORIC RIVER CRUISE
The Southern Belle Riverboat offers scenic cruises along the Tennessee River aboard a vintage-style paddlewheel boat. Passengers can enjoy sightseeing, dining, and entertainment while learning about the history and ecology of the Tennessee River Gorge. The riverboat offers various themed cruises including dinner voyages, sunset cruises, and special holiday events.
12. Ketner's Mill
HISTORIC GRISTMILL SITE
Ketner's Mill is a historic water-powered gristmill dating back to 1824, situated on the banks of the Sequatchie River. The site hosts the popular annual Ketner's Mill Country Fair each October, featuring crafts, food, and demonstrations of traditional skills. Visitors can tour the historic mill structure, view the water wheel, and learn about early agricultural processing methods.
13. Savage Gulf State Natural Area
PRISTINE WILDERNESS HIKING
Savage Gulf State Natural Area encompasses 15,590 acres of protected wilderness featuring deep gorges, waterfalls, and old-growth forests within the South Cumberland State Park. Hikers can explore over 55 miles of trails leading to spectacular overlooks, cascading streams, and unique geological formations. The area is known for its biodiversity, including rare plant species and wildlife viewing opportunities in a pristine natural setting.
14. Raccoon Mountain Caverns
UNDERGROUND CAVE ADVENTURES
Raccoon Mountain Caverns features an extensive cave system with over 5.5 miles of mapped passageways filled with stunning formations. Visitors can choose between a walking tour of the Crystal Palace or more adventurous wild cave expeditions requiring crawling and climbing. The attraction also offers gem mining, camping facilities, and outdoor activities on the mountain.
15. Dutch Maid Bakery
HISTORIC GERMAN BAKERY
Dutch Maid Bakery is Tennessee's oldest family-owned bakery, established in 1902 by Swiss-German immigrants and known for authentic European baked goods and regional specialties. The bakery occupies a historic building and offers freshly made breads, pastries, cakes, and local favorites like moon pies and chess squares. Visitors can watch baking demonstrations, purchase baked goods, and learn about the bakery's century-long history in the region.