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Discover our Region with Recommendations from Lodge Locals

By: Lodge Cast Iron / August 8, 2023

South Pittsburg has been our hometown for 125 years—ever since Joseph Lodge established the original Blacklock Foundry in 1896. It’s always been a special part of our history and we’re excited for you to visit! After a trip to the Lodge Museum of Cast Iron and lunch at Big Bad Breakfast, we hope you’ll stay a while and check out all that our area has to offer.

Pan Fam in South Pittsburg
South Pittsburg, Tennessee  

Walk through our downtown area to check out local gallery, Arts in the Burg, or catch a show at the Princess Theater. If you're looking for a bite to eat, grab some "Southern soul food" at Yum Yums Cafe or pizza at Stevarinos Italian eatery and pub. While you’re at it, cool off with an ice cream from the Dixie Freeze or get an afternoon treat from Alessandro’s Italian Artisan Bakery, a family-owned and operated bakery that serves up authentic Italian sweets. If you’re hoping to hit the trail or water next (and we don’t blame you!), check out Nickajack Cave Wildlife Refuge or South Cumberland State Park. You’ll find great spots for hiking, kayaking, and even rock climbing. From April to early October, you can even catch a glimpse of the thousands of gray bats that inhabit Nickajack Cave. And when it’s time to turn in for the night, settle in five minutes down the road in Kimball, where there are several hotels. Or set up camp under the stars at Sasquatch Farm Campground

“Exploring nature is easily my favorite hobby, and our area is rich with hidden outdoor gems including world-class rock climbing, hiking, and water sports. There is always something going on in our little picturesque downtown, too. I go see whatever is playing at the Princess Theatre or drop in at Arts in the Burg all the time.” 

Walker Henley, Brand Development Manager

Princess Theater in South Pittsburg
Fried Chicken Biscuit with gravy from Kenny's in Chattanooga, TN.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
(30 minutes east)
 

Located just 30 minutes east of South Pittsburg, you’ll find the scenic city of Chattanooga—home to favorites like Rock City, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Start your day doing something outdoorsy: rent bikes on the Riverwalk, rent paddle boards and kayaks from Rock Creek, or hit a nearby hiking trail. For lunch, check out butcher shop and restaurant, Main Street Meats, or coffee shop and bakery, Niedlov's. Then, stop by the Tennessee Aquarium or Hunter Museum of American Art—both located right downtown, next to the Walnut Street Bridge. Staying for dinner? Stop by Sugar’s Ribs on historic Missionary Ridge to get a taste of their award-winning BBQ sauce and slow-smoked baby back ribs. Make a reservation at Il Primo, a neighborhood Italian restaurant in North Shore, or grab a bite at Tremont Tavern, a local favorite known for its burgers and great craft beer menu. 

“My ideal day in Chattanooga starts at Kenny’s for breakfast and ends at Easy Bistro for dinner. In between, I’m strolling down Frazier Avenue popping in the shops, or exploring the exhibits at The Hunter. If you need a snack, pick up a croissant at Niedlov’s or get a scoop of the pistachio gelato from Milk & Honey. If you love antiquing, don’t miss Dirty Jane’s or Anthology.”

 Jodi Lawrence, Social Media Manager 

Sewanee, Tennessee
(30 minutes northwest) 

Take a 30-minute drive north of South Pittsburg for a stop in the university town of Sewanee. While you’re here, stop by Sewanee University’s beautiful campus and check out All Saints' Chapel. Throughout the year, the university offers lectures and concerts that are open to the public. If you’re hoping to get outside, check out the Perimeter Trail, which offers a 20-mile hiking loop. After, walk around Sewanee’s downtown area and grab a bite to eat at LUNCH, a local spot with a focus on seasonal dishes and homemade baked goods. 

“Sewanee is a hiker’s paradise. Walk the Shakerag Hollow trail in spring to see native wildflowers, or hike to Piney Point or Green’s View for a scenic overlook off the Cumberland Plateau. The University of the South campus makes for a lovely stroll any time of year, and you can pop your head into the beautiful All Saints' Chapel or University Art Gallery while you’re there. For lunch, grab a sandwich at Stirling’s, the student-run coffee house or head to LUNCH, a farm-to-table restaurant run by chef Mallory Grimm, whose video on roasting veggies is featured in the Museum!” 

Laura Candler, Senior Brand Engagement Manager 

Wanderlust hiking picture
Canoe
Bridgeport, Alabama
(10 minutes south) 

A short drive south and you’ll find yourself in historic Bridgeport, Alabama—known for its Civil War history and architecture. The Bridgeport Depot Museum is a great first stop, featuring railroad memorabilia and Civil War artifacts. Then, head up to Battery Hill, where you can check out Victorian homes that remain from the 1890s. After that, we recommend a stop at Russell Cave National Monument, an archeological site with records of prehistoric cultures that date back 10,000 years. 

“What a treasure I found when I drove to Bridgeport, AL! While scoping out the River Park and Boat Ramp for a kayaking trip, I stumbled upon the Bridgeport Historic District. I fell in love with the beautiful Queen Anne houses! AND there is a Bridgeport Walking Trail; a 2-mile rail trail from the Bridgeport Depot Museum across the TN River! Who knew?!”

Shannon Nelms, Museum Manager 

World's Largest Skillet

 

Ready to plan your trip to the Lodge Museum of Cast Iron? 

Visit us! 

Contributed By: Lodge Cast Iron

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