Newport Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Newport with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Newport

Newport is a charming town located in Eastern Tennessee, in the United States. The town is surrounded by the beautiful Appalachian Mountains and is located on the banks of the French Broad River.

Newport is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who come to enjoy the stunning natural scenery and the numerous outdoor recreational activities. With its rich history, museums, and cultural attractions, Newport also has plenty to offer for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

In this travel guide, we will explore the must-visit attractions of Newport, share hiking and biking routes, suggest the best things to do, recommend where to stay, and give tips on the local food and customs.

List of Places to Visit in Newport

Newport is full of attractions for all types of travelers. Here are the top places to visit in Newport:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cocke County Heritage Museum: This museum showcases the history of Cocke County and its people, from the prehistoric period to the present day.
  • Elna M. Smith Foundation Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Cherokee people.
  • Newport Historic District: This area of the town has numerous historic buildings and homes.

Natural Attractions of Newport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This park is famous for its stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and rich wildlife.
  • French Broad River: Visitors can enjoy recreational activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking on the river.
  • Appalachian Trail: A popular hiking trail that covers 2,200 miles through 14 states, including Tennessee.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Newport

Newport offers some amazing hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Max Patch Loop Trail: This moderate 1.5-mile loop trail offers incredible views of the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Big Creek Trail: This 5-mile round trip trail takes visitors through beautiful waterfalls, streams, and stunning scenery.
  • Pigeon River Trail: A 2.2-mile loop trail that offers scenic views of the Pigeon River and surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Newport: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Newport:

  • Go white-water rafting: Experience the thrill of white-water rafting in the Pigeon River.
  • Visit the Forbidden Caverns: Explore the underground world of the Forbidden Caverns, with its impressive rock formations and underground streams.
  • Attend the Cocke County Tomato Festival: A fun-filled event held annually in July, offering food, music, and entertainment.

Week-Long Itinerary for Newport

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Newport:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Cocke County Heritage Museum
2 Go hiking on the Max Patch Loop Trail
3 Visit the Elna M. Smith Foundation Museum
4 Go white-water rafting on the Pigeon River
5 Take a scenic drive on the Foothills Parkway
6 Visit the Forbidden Caverns
7 Attend the Cocke County Tomato Festival

Food and Drink Scene of Newport

Newport has a thriving food and drink scene, with something to suit every taste.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried green tomatoes: A delicious local specialty, made by battering and frying unripe tomatoes.
  • Tennessee hot chicken: A spicy fried chicken dish that originated in Nashville.
  • Barbecue: Tennessee is famous for its barbecue, and Newport has some fantastic barbecue joints.

Local Beverages

  • Moonshine: A strong, high-proof alcohol that is popular in this region.
  • Craft beers: Tennessee is home to numerous craft breweries, and Newport has some great local beers to try.

Where to Stay in Newport: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Newport has accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • Holiday Inn Express Newport: A comfortable and modern hotel that offers excellent amenities.
  • Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium Campground: A scenic campground that offers campsites, cabins, and RV rentals.
  • Glenstone Lodge: A historic lodge that features comfortable rooms and stunning mountain views.

What to Buy in Newport: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Arts and crafts: Newport has a thriving arts and crafts scene, with many local artisans selling their handcrafted wares.
  • Moonshine: Moonshine whiskey is a popular souvenir to bring home from Newport.
  • T-shirts and other souvenirs: There are plenty of shops in Newport that sell a variety of souvenirs, such as T-shirts, mugs, and keychains.

Local Culture and Customs of Newport

Newport is a friendly and welcoming town, where visitors will feel right at home. The locals are proud of their rich history and culture, and visitors are always welcome to learn more about it.

Best Time to Visit Newport

The best time to visit Newport is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Newport

Do:

  • Do visit the local museums and historic sites to learn about the town’s rich history.
  • Do try the local food and drink, especially the barbecue and moonshine.
  • Do take advantage of the beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreational activities.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the parks or on the trails.
  • Don’t ignore the local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t disrespect the natural environment, by damaging or removing plants or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Newport

Newport is a relatively safe town, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take basic precautions, such as locking their doors and windows, and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Newport

Newport has good healthcare facilities, including a hospital and several clinics. Visitors should make sure they have adequate health insurance before traveling to Newport.

Getting to Newport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Newport

The nearest airports to Newport are McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), in Knoxville, and Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), in Asheville, North Carolina.

Bus Stations Near Newport

The nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Knoxville, Tennessee, which is about 40 miles from Newport.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Newport, as the town is easily accessible by car from many major highways.

How to Get Around in Newport

The best way to explore Newport is by car. Visitors can also rent bikes or take a taxi or ride-sharing service.

Where to Go Next from Newport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Asheville, North Carolina: A vibrant and artsy city that is famous for its craft breweries, live music, and stunning scenery.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A vast national park that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Pigeon Forge: A family-friendly town that is home to Dollywood, a theme park owned by legendary country singer Dolly Parton.

Conclusion

Newport is a charming town that offers something for everyone, from outdoor recreational activities to cultural attractions and local cuisine. By following this guide, visitors can make the most out of their trip to Newport and create memories that will last a lifetime.