Museum of Appalachia

Museum of Appalachia

Located just 20 minutes north of Knoxville in Norris, Tennessee, your group will find the Museum of Appalachia, the living history museum that depicts the life of pioneers during the early 20th century within this region. The Southern Appalachian region is a vastly unique and interesting place, both geographically and culturally, and learning the history of it is always fun for student groups (and teachers!).

This rustic museum was established as a nonprofit in 1969 by John Irwin with the goal of 'preserving the past for the future'. Since then it has earned a spot as an official Smithsonian Affiliate museum for its excellence in displaying regional history and culture. Your group will be able to experience this excellence by exploring the 65 acres of recreated Appalachian community, the area including 35 cabins, several barns, farm animals, churches, schools, and gardens. There are 3 main museum buildings that hold over 250,000 artifacts such as folk art, musical instruments, baskets, quilts, and other various Native American Artifacts.

Your group will have the pleasure of dining onsite during your visit, the restaurant here serving up hot meals from 11 am to 2 pm. Each day there is a new special with a different meat and two veggies, plus a hearty helping of dessert. If you're lucky you'll get the chicken and dumplings, fresh greens, and peach cobbler during your visit, but honestly you'll be lucky to get any of this authentic Appalachian style food!

Be sure to stop at the 2-story onsite gift shop before you leave and check to see if there are any special events taking place!