Middleton TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Middleton, Tennessee.
1. Rose House
HISTORIC 19TH CENTURY HOME
The Rose House stands as the oldest structure in Middleton, built by Benjamin Rose in 1833. This historic home represents an important piece of local heritage and offers a glimpse into 19th-century Tennessee life. Visitors can admire the preserved architecture that has withstood nearly two centuries in this small town at the 'Crossroads of the South.'
2. Methodist Church and Adams Masonic Lodge #264
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS STRUCTURE
The Methodist Church and Adams Masonic Lodge #264 stands as Middleton's second oldest building, constructed in 1859. This historic structure serves both as a place of worship and a meeting place for one of the area's longstanding fraternal organizations. Its dual purpose and architectural significance make it an important landmark in the community.
3. Middleton Veterans Memorial
TRIBUTE TO LOCAL HEROES
The Middleton Veterans Memorial is located at City Hall, honoring those who served from the local community. This monument pays tribute to the sacrifices made by Middleton residents throughout America's military conflicts. Visitors can take a moment to reflect on the contributions of these hometown heroes while exploring the downtown area.
4. Fur, Fin and Feather Festival
ANNUAL LABOR DAY CELEBRATION
The Fur, Fin and Feather Festival is Middleton's signature annual event held over Labor Day weekend. This celebration brings together locals and visitors for food, entertainment, and activities that highlight the region's outdoor heritage. The festival showcases the community spirit that defines this small Tennessee town.
5. ThyssenKrupp Elevator Manufacturing Plant
INDUSTRIAL TOURISM SITE
ThyssenKrupp operates a significant elevator manufacturing plant in Middleton that serves as one of the area's major employers. This industrial facility represents the manufacturing backbone of the local economy and showcases modern production techniques. For those interested in industrial tourism, the plant offers insights into specialized manufacturing processes.
6. Middleton City Parks
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREAS
Middleton boasts two city parks offering recreational opportunities for visitors and residents alike. These green spaces provide playgrounds, picnic areas, and open fields perfect for family outings and community gatherings. The parks serve as a centerpiece for local outdoor activities and seasonal events throughout the year.
7. Boy Scout Hut
HISTORIC SCOUTING LANDMARK
The Boy Scout Hut in Middleton serves as the meeting place for the local Boy Scouts of America troop, established in 1938. This historic structure represents one of the longest-running scouting traditions in the region and continues to support youth development today. The rustic building stands as a testament to the community's commitment to fostering leadership and outdoor skills in younger generations.
8. Middleton Community Library
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE CENTER
The Middleton Community Library serves as an important educational and cultural resource for locals and visitors. This facility offers books, research materials, and information about the town's history and development over the years. The library frequently hosts community events and provides valuable services to residents of all ages.
9. Middleton Commercial Park
ECONOMIC HUB ZONE
The Middleton Commercial Park encompasses 40 acres of rail-served business development space. This economic zone houses various industries that collectively employ over 1,000 people in the region. For visitors interested in economic development, the park demonstrates how small towns can sustain manufacturing and commercial enterprises in rural Tennessee.
10. The Hermitage
PRESIDENT JACKSON'S HOME
The Hermitage stands as the historic plantation home of President Andrew Jackson, located a short drive from Middleton. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved mansion, gardens, and grounds where the seventh U.S. president lived from 1804 until his death in 1845. The site includes a museum with numerous artifacts, Jackson's tomb, and restored slave quarters that provide insights into 19th-century plantation life.
11. Franklin Battlefield
CIVIL WAR HISTORIC SITE
Franklin Battlefield preserves the site of one of the bloodiest encounters of the American Civil War, fought on November 30, 1864. Visitors can walk the grounds where nearly 10,000 casualties occurred during five hours of intense fighting that significantly impacted the war's final stages. The battlefield includes multiple preserved historic homes, interpretive markers, and a visitor center that brings this pivotal moment in American history to life.
12. Natchez Trace Parkway
SCENIC HISTORIC HIGHWAY
The Natchez Trace Parkway offers a scenic drive through history on a 444-mile route that follows ancient pathways used by Native Americans and early European settlers. This historic byway features numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and interpretive sites where travelers can connect with Tennessee's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors near Middleton can access portions of this nationally recognized parkway for day trips that combine outdoor recreation with historical exploration.
13. Fisk University Jubilee Hall
HISTORIC ACADEMIC LANDMARK
Jubilee Hall at Fisk University stands as the first permanent building for higher education of African Americans in the United States, completed in 1876. This Victorian Gothic structure was built with funds raised by the original Fisk Jubilee Singers, who toured internationally performing spirituals to save their financially struggling institution. The historic building continues to serve students today while representing an important chapter in American educational history and the preservation of African American musical traditions.
14. Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland
UPSCALE WATER ATTRACTION
Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland offers a premium indoor/outdoor water attraction experience within reasonable driving distance from Middleton. This upscale water destination combines music and water features across 111,000 square feet of indoor attractions and 106,000 square feet of outdoor water features. Visitors can enjoy thrilling slides, relaxing rivers, activity pools, and private cabanas in this year-round attraction that blends Tennessee's musical heritage with family-friendly water recreation.
15. Ocoee River Whitewater Rafting
OLYMPIC RAFTING ADVENTURE
Ocoee River whitewater rafting provides an exhilarating adventure experience on the same waters that hosted the 1996 Olympic canoe/kayak slalom competition. Visitors can navigate challenging Class III and IV rapids with professional guides while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Cherokee National Forest. This popular outdoor activity attracts thrill-seekers from across the region looking to experience Tennessee's premier whitewater destination within a day trip from Middleton.