Tennessee is chock full of darling small towns perfect for exploring, but there’s something about Unicoi that makes us excited to plan a trip. This tiny town hasn’t expanded in recent years and instead has maintained its rural charm and ease. Learn more about Unicoi below – including where the inspiration for its name came from! – then pack up your hiking boots and get ready to visit. You’ll discover that there are some fun things to do in Unicoi Tennessee and there’s nothing quite like a mountain town adventure. It’s one great place that you’ll want to explore!

things to do in Unicoi Tennessee
Joe Meyer - AllTrails
Unicoi is a small-town located in East Tennessee that is known for its natural beauty and small-town population. In 2010, a mere 3,632 folks lived in Unicoi per the official census.
Jimmy Emerson DVM - Flickr
Folks who don't live in Unicoi tend to visit during the months of May, June, and September for the lush summer foliage and great weather. If you make your way to town in January or February, be prepared for chillier weather!
Town of Unicoi - Facebook
The town's name is derived from the Cherokee word, "unika," which means white or fog-like. The mountains of the area tend to boast morning and seasonal fog, which is where most folks believe the inspiration for the name came from.

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Town of Unicoi - Facebook
Although it's cold in the wintertime, the town of Unicoi is a great spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Pinnacle Trail that meanders its way up Buffalo Mountain is one of the most popular treks in the area.
Jimmy Emerson DVM - Flickr
There are all sorts of hiking trails located in and around the town of Unicoi, some that take you straight up into the mountains and boast great views, and others with beautiful waterfalls.
Wes Bunch - All Trails
Unicoi is conveniently located right off of I-26, so you can stop off and enjoy the area and citizens of the friendly town if you're passing through the area. Why not? We have a feeling you're going to love it.
Sam Wagner - AllTrails
Have you ever been to Unicoi? Will you be visiting? We have a feeling you're going to fall in love with this gorgeous East Tennessee town.

Check out this incredible video by Youtuber Laura Rogers featuring some of the gorgeous scenes from Unicoi.

You can learn more about the town with a visit to Unicoi’s official website or follow Unicoi’s Facebook page for more fun things happening in the town.

In love with Tennessee? These Tennessee waterfall hikes are gorgeous in the wintertime!

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More to Explore

THINGS TO DO IN UNICOI TENNESSEE & RELATED INFO

Melanie J. | March 23, 2023

What are some cool things to do in Unicoi Tennessee?

Unicoi is a charming mountain town that is great for hiking, but here are some of the coolest things to do in Unicoi Tennessee: 

  • Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens - a unique event venue where you can camp, visit a buffalo herd, grab a bite to eat, or spend some time shopping for specialty gifts
  • Scott’s Farm Market - a seasonal farmers market offering the freshest produce that includes strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, squash, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, and so much more.
  • Los Jalapenos Mexican Restaurant - savor some authentic Mexican flavors
  • Maple Grove Restaurant - stop in for the best comfort breakfast in the area
  • Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower - located atop Buffalo Mountain that’s 3,520 feet above sea level, you’ll witness breathtaking panoramic views of the area from this 40-foot tower.
  • Attend a yearly festival in Unicoi - the annual Wayne Scott Strawberry Festival is a delightful treat.

What are the best mountain towns in Tennessee?

If you’re searching for a peaceful getaway, here are some of the best mountain towns in Tennessee for a weekend trip: 

  • Gatlinburg
  • Pigeon Forge
  • Roan Mountain
  • Townsend
  • Wears Valley
  • Bluff City
  • Sevierville
  • Pittman Center
  • Johnson City
  • Cosby

Here’s an article with more information about the best mountain towns in Tennessee, which are all great places to visit as well as to live. 

What are some fun things to do in Tennessee? 

There are lots of fun things to do in Tennessee and they include:

  • Dollywood Theme Park, Pigeon Forge
  • Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg
  • Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
  • Lookout Mountain and Ruby Falls, Chattanooga
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg
  • Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Chattanooga
  • Graceland, Memphis
  • Forbidden Caverns, Sevierville
  • Market Square, Knoxville
  • Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga

Here’s a previous article with a complete guide for some more fun things to do in Tennessee.

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Unicoi, TN, USA