Things to See in Rhea County

The Historic Rhea County Courthouse
1475 Market Street
Dayton, TN 37321
423-775- 7801
Dayton won its place in history in 1925 when William Jennings Bryan and Clarence Darrow argued the question of evolution and creation in the Scopes Evolution Trial at the Rhea County Courthouse. The courthouse, now a National Historic Landmark, has been restored to its 1925 appearance and a museum giving out information about the trial is open daily in the courthouse basement.

The Scopes Museum
1475 Market Street
Dayton, TN 37321
423-775-7801
Located in the basement of the courthouse, this facility contains exhibits, photos, and news clippings of the famous trial. It is open Monday through Friday 9 am to 4 pm. Admission is free.

The Spring City Depot
Spring City, TN 37381
423-365-5210
The depot was originally built by the Queen and Crescent Railroad of Cincinnati, Ohio, for the purpose of extending travel and commerce to the South. It was restored in the early 1990's.

The Magnolia House
656 Market Street
Dayton, TN 37321
423-775-9288
This Greek Revival structure was built in 1890 by Dr. Walter Thomison for his sixteen-year-old bride. It is now a historic bed and breakfast. Open by appointment for teas, parties, weddings and tours. Also, you can browse in a unique gift shop.

Courthouse Square Farmers' Market
Court Street
Dayton, TN 37321
423-775-7807
Come and see what the "truck" farmers have for sale! Fresh local produce is available throughout the growing season. Open May through October, Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm.

Jewell Farms
1230 Jewell Road
Dayton, TN 37321
423-775-9416
This family-owned farm features an open-air market with fresh-picked vegetables, fall decorations, corn stalks, straw and flowers. In the fall, enjoy a hayride out to the field to select your very own pumpkin.

Wooden's Apple House
Just past the Rhea County line in Bledsoe County
423-447-6376
This family-owned business began when owner Oren Wooden's father planted the first apple tree over 50 years ago. The orchard has grown to 100 acres with 18 varieties of apples. Now the family produces apples, pumpkins, cider, souvenirs, crafts and more. Vegetables are also sold. The Pie Shop features fried, baked or sugar-free pies, apple and pumpkin cakes and more. Hours of operation: August - October Monday through Saturday 8 am to 7 pm; Sunday 1-6 pm. November - end of season Monday through Saturday 8 am to 6 pm; Sunday 1-5 pm.

Tidwell Berry Farm
402 Strawberry Road
Spring City, TN 37381
423-365-9300
Purchase home-grown strawberries, blueberries and peaches in season at this fruit stand. Season: May for strawberries and July for blueberries and peaches.