10 Fun Things To Do Near Cleveland, Tennessee (Bradley County)
If you’re looking for a laid-back getaway in East Tennessee,
Cleveland, TN in
Bradley County is a great place to start. It’s small enough to feel friendly, but close enough to the mountains and the Ocoee River to stay exciting.
Whether you’re road-tripping from Atlanta, Nashville, or just exploring your own backyard, this guide covers
10 fun things to do in and around Cleveland, Tennessee that work for couples, families, or solo travelers.
1. Wander Through Historic Downtown Cleveland
Downtown Cleveland has that classic Southern small-town feel: old brick buildings, church steeples, and local shops lining the streets.
You can:
- Stroll around the Bradley County Courthouse Square and snap photos of historic architecture.
- Pop into locally owned boutiques for gifts, clothing, and home décor.
- Grab coffee at a downtown café and just people-watch for a bit.
On a recent visit, I ended up chatting with a local shop owner about how the area has changed over the years. It’s the kind of place where folks actually stop and talk to you, which feels rare these days.
If you like walkable areas, plan at least a couple of hours here—and don’t forget comfy shoes.
2. Explore Red Clay State Historic Park
About 15 minutes south of Cleveland,
Red Clay State Historic Park is a peaceful spot with a powerful story. This was the last council ground of the Cherokee Nation before they were forced west on the Trail of Tears.
What you can do there:
- Walk the easy wooded trails (great for kids and casual walkers).
- Visit the Blue Hole Spring, a beautiful, clear spring that feels almost otherworldly.
- See the reconstructed council house and exhibits about Cherokee history.
It’s not a flashy attraction, but it’s meaningful. If you appreciate history and quiet nature spots, you’ll leave with a lot to think about.
3. Ride the Rapids on the Ocoee River
If you’re craving adventure, the famous
Ocoee River is less than a half hour east of Cleveland. This is one of the best places in the USA for whitewater rafting and was used in the 1996 Olympic Games.
Several outfitters in the area offer guided trips, usually lasting 3–4 hours. You don’t need experience, just:
- A basic level of fitness
- Clothes you don’t mind getting soaked
- A sense of humor for when you get splashed in the face
If full-on rafting feels like too much, ask about
gentler float trips or late-season runs when water levels are lower. Either way, it’s one of the top
things to do near Cleveland, TN if you like the outdoors.
4. Hike, Camp, and Explore in the Cherokee National Forest
Just east of Bradley County, the
Cherokee National Forest stretches for miles along the Tennessee–North Carolina border. From Cleveland, it’s an easy drive into the woods for a day of hiking or a full weekend of camping.
Popular activities include:
- Hiking short scenic trails to overlooks and streams
- Camping at developed campgrounds or more rustic spots
- Fishing in mountain streams and rivers
- Enjoying fall colors (seriously stunning in October)
Pack a cooler, throw some snacks in your daypack, and just start exploring. If you prefer easy, family-friendly walks, ask locals or ranger staff for short trail suggestions—they’re usually happy to point you in the right direction.
5. Visit the Museum Center at 5ive Points
Right in downtown Cleveland, the
Museum Center at 5ive Points is a small but well-done local museum that focuses on the history and culture of Southeast Tennessee.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Stories about Cherokee heritage and early settlers
- Exhibits on Cleveland’s growth, from railroads to industry
- Rotating displays about local art, music, and everyday life
It’s the kind of place where you come away feeling like you understand the town, not just drove through it. If the weather turns rainy or too hot, this is an excellent indoor thing to do in Cleveland.
6. Take a Scenic Drive on the Ocoee Scenic Byway
If you enjoy relaxing drives with big views, don’t skip the
Ocoee Scenic Byway. It’s America’s first national forest scenic byway and an easy day trip from Cleveland.
Along the way you can:
- Drive beside the Ocoee River and watch rafters fly through the rapids.
- Pull off at overlooks and picnic areas for photos and snacks.
- Visit Ocoee Lake for swimming, paddling, or just sitting by the water.
If you’re visiting in fall, the bright red and gold leaves along the byway are worth the trip all by themselves.
7. Enjoy Local Flavors at Cleveland’s Restaurants and Breweries
One of the fun parts of exploring a smaller city is trying the local food scene. Cleveland has a mix of Southern comfort spots, barbecue joints, diners, and a growing number of modern restaurants and breweries.
You might:
- Grab barbecue piled high with smoked pork or brisket.
- Start your day with biscuits and gravy or a big country breakfast.
- Check out a local brewery or taproom for craft beer and live music.
Every time I’m in East Tennessee, I end up eating more than planned—it’s hard to say no to one more plate of mac and cheese or banana pudding.
If you’re staying overnight, ask your host or hotel front desk where they eat on their day off. Locals usually steer you toward the good stuff.
8. Tour Lee University’s Tree-Lined Campus
Cleveland is home to
Lee University, a growing Christian university with a pretty, walkable campus close to downtown. Even if you’re not connected to the school, it’s a nice place to stretch your legs.
While you’re there:
- Walk the tree-lined sidewalks and open green spaces.
- Check out the campus chapel and academic buildings.
- Attend a concert, lecture, or sporting event if something is happening while you’re in town.
It’s a simple, low-key outing, but it adds some variety to your time in Cleveland and gives you a feel for campus life in a small Tennessee city.
9. Have a Family Day at Cleveland’s Parks
Sometimes the best memories come from simple days at the park, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
Around Cleveland and Bradley County, you’ll find:
- Playgrounds for younger children to burn off energy
- Walking paths for easy strolls
- Ball fields and open lawns for tossing a frisbee or football
- Picnic shelters perfect for a casual lunch
Pack a cooler, bring a blanket, and turn it into a relaxed afternoon. It’s also a budget-friendly way to travel, which is always a plus.
10. Day Trip to Chattanooga (Less Than an Hour Away)
One of the biggest perks of staying in Cleveland, Tennessee is how close you are to
Chattanooga. It’s usually about a 30–45 minute drive south, depending on traffic.
From Cleveland, you can use Chattanooga as a full-day side trip and still come back to a quieter, less crowded place at night.
Popular things to do in Chattanooga include:
- Lookout Mountain (Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway)
- Tennessee Aquarium on the riverfront
- Walking or biking the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge
If you like the idea of a “two-for-one” trip—small town vibes plus a bigger city—this combo works really well.
Planning Your Trip to Cleveland, Tennessee
To wrap things up, here’s how you might structure a simple weekend:
- Day 1: Explore downtown Cleveland, the Museum Center at 5ive Points, Lee University, and local restaurants.
- Day 2: Head out to Red Clay State Historic Park, the Ocoee Scenic Byway, or Cherokee National Forest for hiking, rafting, or just a scenic drive.
- Optional Day 3: Take a full-day side trip to Chattanooga, then return to Cleveland for a quieter evening.
Cleveland, Bradley County might not be as famous as Nashville or Gatlinburg, but that’s part of its charm. You get
mountain views, river adventures, local history, and small-town Southern hospitality—without the heavy crowds.
Share Your Cleveland, TN Favorites
Have you visited
Cleveland, Tennessee or the
Ocoee River area?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you find a restaurant, hike, or hidden spot I should add?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can benefit, and feel free to
share this post with friends or family planning a trip through East Tennessee. The more local secrets we share, the better everyone’s adventure becomes.
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