A different kind of staycation awaits at this family-owned farm. | Photo provided by Ocoee Riverside Farm
“We Bought a Zoo” might be a movie based on a true story that happened in the UK, but less than an hour outside of Chattanooga sits Ocoee Riverside Farm — Benton’s very own version.
Owned by John and Donna Warner, this 30-acre farm began its journey back in 2021 when the Warners only had a llama and a riverside cabin listed on Airbnb. Now, the property offers six types of lodging + most importantly, is licensed as a zoo, housing 150 animals (50 different species).
The best part? You get to interact with them.
“I perceive zoos to be crowds of people where you can occasionally see an animal, here you can fully go up to touch them,” John Warner said.
City Editor Haley here — I recently got to take my own tour of the farm, so let’s get into what you can experience yourself.
If you’re anything like City Editor Haley, be prepared to shed a few happy tears when getting up close and personal to these sweet creatures.
Photos by NOOGAtoday
Some of the animals you could see on your visit are sloths, highland cows, a zebra, camels, llamas, kangaroos, and so many more.
Animal encounters are available to book for guests staying on the property or just visiting for a day trip + range in price and age restrictions. Some encounters I recommend checking out are:
Hang with a sloth | $90 per person | 30-minute encounter to feed, pet, and learn about this animal — bonus: Upgrade to a VIP experience or check out the option to snuggle with a baby sloth.
Full farm tour | $13 per person | 90-minute tour of the site and the chance to feed various animals along the way — with an option to add-on other encounters with the kangaroos.
Bottle feed a baby kangaroo | $30 per person | 30-minute session to sit with the joeys of the farm and feed them personally.
Outdoor Family Movie Night | 7:30 p.m. | Downtown Commons, LaFayette, GA | Free | Bring your blankets and chairs + grab popcorn for a screening of “Inside Out 2.”
Saturday, May 3
Women’s Mountain Bike Day | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Durham Mine Trails, Rising Fawn, GA | Free, RSVP | Spend an afternoon with the gals to dig + shape trails before enjoying lunch and a group ride — beginners will receive an instructional session with a bike provided.
Battle Below the Clouds | 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Ruby Falls | Free+ | Gather for a day of fun + food to see which of the 14 teams smokes the rest during this friendly competition — donations are encouraged to support Lana’s Love Foundation.
Grand Opening | 10 a.m.-7 p.m. | Mountain Outfitters | Free+ | Head to the Southern Saddlery Building to celebrate this store’s new location with live music, food trucks, beer + shopping sales on outdoor gear and wares.
Running of the Chihuahuas | 12 p.m. | First Horizon Pavilion | Free+ | Hits96 is back with another year of cheering on local chihuahuas dressed to impress, live music, a market, and more.
Valley Fest | Saturday, May 3-Sunday, May 4 | Times vary | Coops Creek Commons, Dunlap | Free+ | Come out to this festival that features a Cruz’n parade through the Sequatchie Valley, food, rides, and live music all day with headliners The Outlaws + Emily Ann Roberts.
Sunday, May 4
Strawberry Festival | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | First Horizon Pavilion | Free+ | Shop the Sunday market to find all things berry themed — from jams, salsas + hand-picked strawberries to artisanal goods like candles.
CARTA will hold a public hearing on proposed fare adjustments on Thursday, May 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Chattanooga Public Library’s downtown branch. Adjustments include the Incline Railway, Care-A-Van, and CARTA Go microtransit services. Representatives will be available to provide details + answer questions. (Local 3)
Open
West Coast Sourdough — an eatery known for its sandwiches, soups, and bread bowls — has opened its doors on East Brainerd Road. Craving something hearty, cheesy, or toasted? See what’s on the menu.
Traffic
Beginning Monday, May 5, Brotherton Road (between Alexander Bridge + LaFayette Roads) will be closed in the Chickamauga Battlefield for construction. During the closure, all public traffic (including pedestrians and bicycles) is prohibited. The project is scheduled to be completed by late October.
The Word
Orangefoot Pimpleback. We didn’t make that up — that’s the name of a freshwater mussel you can find in the Tennessee Aquarium’s new exhibit in the “Ridges to Rivers” gallery. Learn more about the role these species have in maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Concert
Let’s take the party underground. The Caverns in nearby Grundy County will host the South Cumberland Shindig on Tuesday, May 20. RSVP for this free concert to hear tunes ranging from old-timey strings to mountain-style square dancing in support of local area music students.
Biz
Chattanooga-based Covenant Logistics was recently awarded the Managed Transportation Sustainability Carrier of the Year Award by DHL. The recognition highlights the company’s leadership in delivering high-performance, environmentally-responsible freight solutions.
Shop
Tired of smells that linger? This plug-in air purifier boasts a 99.99% deodorization rate that conquers unpleasant pet, toilet, and kitchen odors.*
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Community
A Dolly would go to Ringgold for this
We’ll take any excuse to celebrate the Backwoods Barbie, Dolly Parton herself. | Photo provided by City of Ringgold
In 1966, Dolly Parton looked at Carl Dean and said, “Sail away with me” to Ringgold, GA, to get married.
To honor that moment, Ringgold Downtown Partners launched the official Dolly Days celebration in 2022 + the festival is set to return on Saturday, May 10 to the downtown square. Bonus: This festival also doubles as a running event with the Dolly Dash — let’s get into the details.
Those interested in participating in the 1-Mile Fun Walk, 5K, 10K, or virtual run can register online. Packages will be available starting on Thursday, May 8 — but we recommend stopping by on Friday, May 9 for a pre-party from 4 to 7 p.m. with live music, shopping + a pickleball tournament.
I’m feeling a little jazzy today folks — as you know, the Nightfall season begins tonight in Miller Park and Plaza. Make the most of this free concert series by getting a breakdown of what to expect.
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