Step Back in Time at Fort Watauga

Discover the rich history of American frontier life at Fort Watauga, a captivating historical landmark in Elizabethton, Tennessee.

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Fort Watauga, a historical landmark in Elizabethton, TN, invites tourists to explore its rich heritage and significance in early American history. This well-preserved site offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and their struggles against the backdrop of the wilderness.

A brief summary to Fort Watauga

1504 W Elk Ave, Elizabethton, Tennessee, 37643, US
+1423-543-5808

Local tips

Visit during special events for interactive reenactments and deeper insights into the history.
Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven ground throughout the fort.

Getting There

Car

If you are traveling by car, start by heading to US-64 E. Follow US-64 E to NC-32 N in Martin County. Merge onto NC-32 N and continue until you reach the intersection with US-17 N. Merge onto US-17 N and drive until you reach the exit for NC-33 E. Follow NC-33 E until you reach your destination in Elizabethton, TN. Note that Fort Watauga is located at 1504 W Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643.
Public Transportation

For those using public transportation, start by finding the nearest bus station in the Inner Banks. You will need to take a bus that heads toward Washington, NC. From Washington, transfer to a bus that travels to Elizabethton, TN. Be sure to check the schedule for both buses as they may not run frequently. Once you arrive in Elizabethton, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Fort Watauga at 1504 W Elk Ave.
Rideshare

If you prefer a rideshare option, use apps like Uber or Lyft. Simply enter 'Fort Watauga' or the address '1504 W Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643' in the destination field of the app. This will provide you with the quickest route based on your current location. The cost will vary based on distance and demand at the time of your request.

Discover more about Fort Watauga

Fort Watauga is more than just a historical landmark; it is a window into the early days of American frontier life. Nestled in the charming town of Elizabethton, Tennessee, this reconstructed fort stands as a testament to the courage and resilience of the early settlers who faced numerous challenges in their quest for a new life. Visitors are greeted by the fort’s sturdy wooden stockade and authentic period buildings that transport them back to the 18th century. The site serves not only as a tourist attraction but also as a vital educational resource, shedding light on the interactions between settlers and Native Americans during a pivotal time in American history. As you walk through the fort, you can explore various exhibits and displays that detail the daily lives of those who lived there. From the strategically built structures to the beautiful natural surroundings, Fort Watauga offers a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection and learning. The site often hosts reenactments, allowing visitors to witness historical events come to life, making it an engaging experience for all ages. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a unique outing, Fort Watauga provides an enriching experience that combines leisure with education, ensuring that your visit is memorable and meaningful. Enjoy guided tours that delve into the fort's storied past, and take part in seasonal events that celebrate the heritage of the region.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Elizabethton Historic District

3.8 km

Explore the Elizabethton Historic District, a captivating journey through Tennessee's rich history and charming architecture.

Veterans Monument

3.9 km

Explore the Veterans Monument in Elizabethton, TN - a serene memorial honoring the brave sacrifices of our military heroes.

Sycamore Shoals State Park - Carter Mansion

4.6 km

Experience the natural beauty and rich history of Sycamore Shoals State Park, a serene escape in Elizabethton, Tennessee, where nature and heritage meet.

Carter Mansion

4.6 km

Explore Carter Mansion, a historical landmark in Elizabethton, TN, showcasing stunning architecture and rich stories of early Tennessee settlers.

Milligan Depot

5.1 km

Explore the Milligan Depot, a historic landmark along the Tweetsie Trail in Johnson City, Tennessee, and experience the charm of early rail travel.

Johnson City Historical Marker

9.3 km

Discover the rich history of Johnson City at the Historical Marker, a significant landmark showcasing the town's storied past.

Visit Johnson City

9.4 km

Explore Johnson City, Tennessee, where community spirit thrives in a vibrant non-profit hub for culture and connection.

Rich-R-Tone Records Historical Marker

9.5 km

Explore the Rich-R-Tone Records Historical Marker in Johnson City, TN, and uncover the legacy of country music's roots.

Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association

12.5 km

Discover Northeast Tennessee's natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant community through the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association.

Crouch Log House

14.9 km

Discover the historical allure of Crouch Log House in Johnson City, TN, a beautifully preserved log cabin that reflects the region's rich heritage.

William Bean's Cabin State Historic Site

14.9 km

Explore the rustic charm and rich history of William Bean's Cabin State Historic Site in Johnson City, Tennessee, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Bogart Bowman Cabin

15.0 km

Explore the historical significance of the Bogart Bowman Cabin, a charming landmark set against the backdrop of the stunning Appalachian Mountains in Unicoi, Tennessee.

Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower

17.5 km

Explore the scenic Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower in Unicoi, TN, offering stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences amidst nature's beauty.

Boones Creek Historical Trust Museum and Opry

20.1 km

Explore the rich history and vibrant music scene at the Boones Creek Historical Trust Museum and Opry in Johnson City, TN, a must-visit destination for travelers.

Jonesborough Washington County History Museum

20.2 km

Discover the rich heritage of Jonesborough at the Washington County History Museum, where Tennessee's past comes to life through engaging exhibits and local stories.

Jonesborough Washington County History Museum

Unmissable attractions to see

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

0.1 km

Explore Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, where history comes alive amidst stunning natural beauty in Elizabethton, Tennessee.

Elizabethton Covered Bridge

3.8 km

Discover the beauty and history of the Elizabethton Covered Bridge, a charming landmark nestled in Tennessee's picturesque landscapes.

Jacob's Nature Park

7.0 km

Discover the tranquility of Jacob's Nature Park, a picturesque haven in Johnson City, TN, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Tweetsie Trail Trailhead

8.1 km

Discover the picturesque Tweetsie Trail Trailhead in Johnson City, TN – a perfect spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature's beauty.

Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park

8.3 km

Discover adventure at Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park, where stunning trails and breathtaking views await outdoor enthusiasts in Johnson City, TN.

Rotary Park

8.7 km

Explore the serene beauty and community spirit of Rotary Park, a must-visit destination in Johnson City, TN, for relaxation and recreation.

Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site

9.0 km

Explore the captivating history and heritage at Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, where Tennessee's past comes alive in a serene setting.

Powell Square Park

9.2 km

Explore Powell Square Park, a serene urban oasis in Johnson City, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and family fun.

Quantum Leap Trampoline Sports Arena

9.2 km

Discover the ultimate family-friendly adventure at Quantum Leap Trampoline Sports Arena, featuring trampolines, laser tag, and arcade fun in Johnson City, TN.

King Commons Park

9.4 km

Explore the lush landscapes and family-friendly attractions of King Commons Park in Johnson City, Tennessee, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Founders Park

9.6 km

Explore Founders Park in Johnson City, TN - a tranquil park offering stunning landscapes, art installations, and a perfect escape from city life.

Just Jump Trampoline Park

10.0 km

Experience boundless fun at Just Jump Trampoline Park in Johnson City, where every leap brings a smile and every bounce creates memories.

Carver Park

10.0 km

Discover the serene beauty of Carver Park, a lush green oasis in Johnson City, Tennessee, perfect for outdoor activities and family fun.

Rocky Mount State Historic Site

10.1 km

Explore the rich heritage of Tennessee at Rocky Mount State Historic Site, a historical landmark showcasing 19th-century life and culture.

Historic Montrose Court

10.1 km

Explore the historic Montrose Court in Johnson City, TN, a beautiful landmark showcasing stunning architecture and rich local history.

Discover delicious hamburgers and vegan delights at Mid City Grill, where great taste meets inviting atmosphere in Johnson City.

Explore authentic artisan goods and local crafts at Coal Miner's Daughter Mercantile in Johnson City, Tennessee - a unique shopping experience awaits!

The Fouled Anchor

9.3 km

Discover stylish men's clothing at The Fouled Anchor in Johnson City, the perfect blend of local charm and modern fashion.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Nappys Bar

7.6 km

Discover the charm of Nappys Bar, a historic bar in Johnson City offering a vibrant atmosphere, local brews, and unforgettable experiences.

Cranky's Pump N Pints

8.2 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Cranky's Pump N Pints, a must-visit beer garden in Johnson City, TN, featuring local crafts and delicious bites.

Mulligan's Irish Pub

9.1 km

Discover Mulligan's Irish Pub in Johnson City, TN – an authentic Irish pub experience with live music, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Hide-Away LLC

9.2 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Johnson City at Hide-Away LLC, where great drinks and unforgettable entertainment await you.

Capone's

9.2 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled delights at Capone's in Johnson City, TN, a must-visit for any traveler.

Numan's Cafe & Sports Bar

9.3 km

Discover Numan's Cafe & Sports Bar, where sports, food, and fun collide in the heart of Johnson City, TN.

Little Magic Bar

9.3 km

Discover the enchanting Little Magic Bar in Johnson City, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

Wonderland Lounge N Grill

9.3 km

Discover the lively Wonderland Lounge N Grill in Johnson City, where great food meets an electric atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

Tipton Street Pub

9.4 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere at Tipton Street Pub, offering delicious pub classics and local brews in Johnson City, Tennessee.

Atlantic Ale House

9.5 km

Experience the charm of Atlantic Ale House, a premier beer garden in Johnson City, TN, offering local brews and a vibrant atmosphere for all.

The Windsor Speakeasy

9.7 km

Experience the charm and exquisite cocktails at The Windsor Speakeasy, a unique cocktail bar in Johnson City, TN, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.

Applebee's Grill + Bar

10.8 km

Savor the taste of America at Applebee's Grill + Bar, where delicious food meets a family-friendly atmosphere in Johnson City, TN.

The Crow Bar

11.3 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Crow Bar in Johnson City, where great drinks, fun games, and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.

New Beginnings

11.7 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at New Beginnings, a lively bar in Johnson City, TN, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious drinks.

Chili's Grill & Bar

13.1 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of American and Tex-Mex cuisine at Chili's Grill & Bar, a must-visit spot in Johnson City for food lovers.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Step Back in Time at Fort Watauga

A brief summary to Fort Watauga

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Rideshare

Unlock the Best of Fort Watauga

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Fort Watauga

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Elizabethton Historic District

Veterans Monument

Sycamore Shoals State Park - Carter Mansion

Carter Mansion

Milligan Depot

Johnson City Historical Marker

Visit Johnson City

Rich-R-Tone Records Historical Marker

Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association

Crouch Log House

William Bean's Cabin State Historic Site

Bogart Bowman Cabin

Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower

Boones Creek Historical Trust Museum and Opry

Jonesborough Washington County History Museum

Unmissable attractions to see

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

Elizabethton Covered Bridge

Jacob's Nature Park

Tweetsie Trail Trailhead

Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park

Rotary Park

Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site

Powell Square Park

Quantum Leap Trampoline Sports Arena

King Commons Park

Founders Park

Just Jump Trampoline Park

Carver Park

Rocky Mount State Historic Site

Historic Montrose Court

Essential places to dine

Penny Man's Diner

The Main Street Pizza Company

Taste Budz

Southern Craft BBQ

The Black Olive - Downtown

Freiberg's

Label Restaurant

Voodoo Chicken JC

Red Meze

Korean Taco House

Alley Kat

Juan Siao

BURG'r & BARREL

White Duck Taco Shop

Mid City Grill

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Corner Thrift Shop

She's Thrifty Shop

Tree Streets Antiques and Vintage

Artisans' Village

The Generalist: General Store + Retail Collective

Ophelia & Company

Reclaimed Home

Atlantis

Cross Stitch & Crafts

Good Sam Thrift Store

Owl's Nest Clothing & More

The Outpost

Manna House Thrift Store

Coal Miner's Daughter Mercantile

The Fouled Anchor

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Nappys Bar

Cranky's Pump N Pints

Mulligan's Irish Pub