Last month, we kicked off our summer road trip series, Hit the Road, with an outdoor adventure to Highlands, NC . If you checked it out, we’d love to hear about it.
This month, we’re continuing the series with a 40-mile trip to Ocoee, TN for a quick getaway. From cute cafés to rafting on the river, this area offers a little bit of everything — making it the perfect end-of-summer vacay.
Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.
Drive time: ~45 minutes from downtown
Est. population: 1,258
Avg. high in July: 88°
🎟️ Things to do
- Whitewater rafting | One of Ocoee’s most popular activities is whitewater rafting Class III + IV rapids in the Cherokee National Forest. While the area has no shortage of rafting companies, we recommend Cherokee Rafting , High Country Adventures , or Quest Expeditions .
- Ziplining | If you’d rather speed through the trees than the rapids, Ocoee also has plenty of ziplining to try — some outdoor adventure companies, like Ocoee Rafting , offer both whitewater rafting + ziplining.
- Ocoee River Jam | On Sat., July 30, this annual, family-friendly music festival will take place in Ocoee.
- Ms. Be’s Purple Bus | A must-stop while in Ocoee, this unique shopping experience will leave you with a smile on your face. Pro tip: ask Ms. Be for her local recommendations.
- Lake Ocoee | Enjoy a day picnicking + swimming at Parksville Beach on Lake Ocoee.
🍔 Grub to eat
- Apricot Place Café | 283 US-64 | This cute outdoor café is the perfect spot to grab a bite before or after your big adventure (plus, it’s conveniently located on Quest Expedition’s campus).
- Cajun Lady Seafood | 3720 US-411 | Enjoy fresh seafood + authentic Cajun and Creole dishes.
- Ocoee Dam Deli | 1223 US-64 | This popular deli + diner has some dam good comfort food — catfish, burgers, barbecue, meatloaf, and more.
- Tacoee | 409 US-64 | Beat the heat with a strawberry limeade + delicious tacos.
- The Bus Bar | 522 US-64 | A former rafting bus turned bar and grill, this spot has a changing menu with something for everyone + good drinks to wash it all down — stop by on weekends for live music.
🏨 Overnight accommodations
If you get a wild hair and decide to turn this quick day trip into an overnighter, here are some spots to stay.
- Ocoee Whitewater Inn | 120 Whitewater Dr. | This cozy inn is conveniently located near most rafting companies + attractions.
- Quest Cabins | 281 US-64 | If you’re looking for a more outdoorsy experience, but still want the “all-in-one-place” resort feel, Quest cabins are the perfect stay — enjoy lodging, food, and whitewater rafting all in one location.
- Hilltop Heaven Cabin | Ocoee, TN | This cabin is perfect for big families who need a bit more space (plus, there’s a hot tub).
- Caney Creek Wagon Glamping | Benton, TN | Try out this glamping experience at this unique wagon setup in nearby Benton.