Hey, Check this out! Purdy’s Petty Zoo
In 2008, Mark and Melissa Purdy started the petting zoo in Sweetwater not only for a business but for a way for their family to bond together outdoors. The petting zoo has approximately 90 animals that can be hand fed. Purdy’s Petting Zoo is open seasonally, Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. The zoo is located a short distance from Interstate 75’s Exit 60. Go east on New Highway 68 and turn onto Cleveland Farm Road. If you would like more information or have questions, please call Mark and Melissa at 423-295-5156 or go to www.purdyspettingzoo.com.
Sweetwater Valley Farm Located in Philadelphia in south Loudon County, Sweetwater Valley Farm has made a name for itself by producing quality cheese from cows right on the farm, the only dairy in Tennessee to do so. To reach Sweetwater Valley Farm, take Interstate 75 to Exit 68. The farm is located off Highway 11 about one mile from the Monroe and Loudon County line. For more information, contact Sweetwater Valley Farm at 877-862-4332 or visit www.sweetwatervalley.com.
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Tellico Lake Fort Loudoun State Historic Area and Sequoyah Birthplace Museum share an island that was created by the damming of the Little Tennessee River. Tellico Dam was completed and the impoundment of the Little “T” took place in 1979. There was considerable controversy over Tellico Dam as opponents fought the proposed dam on a number of fronts that included property rights, destruction of historic and Native American sites and the impact on the endangered snail darter. Judicial decisions resulted in several haltings of the project. However, legislative action exempted the Tellico Project from the Endangered Species Act and Tellico Lake was born as a result. The lake is 15,000 acres in surface area and has boat ramps and marinas.
Vonore Heritage Museum This museum is located on Church Street next to Vonore City Hall. The museum contains a wide variety of local history, including old Vonore High School memorabilia. The museum is open five days a week. Call City Hall at 423-884-6211 for info.
Sweetwater Flea Market Located at Interstate 75’s Exit 60 in Sweetwater, is one of the largest indoor flea markets around with currently 800 vendor booths in The Sweetwater Flea Market. The Flea Market is open Saturdays and Sundays. Visit thesweetwaterfleamarket.com.
| Tennessee Mountain Traveler-Fall 2013