Day Trips
Exploring Monterey
Day Trip
Start your day early with a trip to Bee Rock Overlook to watch the sunrise. This offers a spectacular panoramic view and a tranquil start to your adventure. After enjoying the sunrise, head to Ben Anna’s Cafe for a hearty breakfast to fuel your day.
Following breakfast, immerse yourself in the town’s history at the Monterey Depot Museum. Learn about the rich heritage and significance of the railroad to the area. From the museum, take a leisurely stroll down the Monterey rail trail to the Standing Stone Monument, a historical landmark that tells a story of the region’s past.
Next, satisfy your shopping cravings by visiting The Charlotte, a unique spot offering a mix of retail and relaxation, and then explore The French Market, where you’ll find charming stationary, home decor, and gifts.
For the afternoon, take a short drive to the Mennonite community of Muddy Pond. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Country Porch and then explore the area’s many leather shops and handmade woodworking creations, experiencing the craftsmanship of this unique community.
Finally, conclude your day back in Monterey with an early dinner at Sapori Di Napoli. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and reflect on your day of exploring Monterey’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Conquering the Outdoors
Day Trip
Stop 1: Test your strength and endurance and attempt one of 11 climbs along the face of Bee Rock Overlook. Not an experienced climber? That’s ok. Bee Rock offers one of the most spectacular views in the Volunteer State. It’s the ideal spot to catch the sunrise with a cup of joe from Bee Rock Brew or to hammock up and unwind from a stressful day.
Stop 2: After taking in Bee Rock, continue your day of outdoor adventure at Meadow Creek Park. This 300-acre park consists of a 90-acre lake and offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Hop in a kayak and paddle around the lake. Bring your fishing pole because Meadow Creek Lake is full of aquatic species, especially small mouth bass and catfish. If there’s a little daredevil in you, kick up the stand on that mountain bike and zoom around more than 7 miles of trail. No bike? We recommend walking the trail and taking in the multiple creek crossings, rock houses, and bank fishing opportunities. If you’re visiting during the season (May-Aug), take advantage of The Outpost at Meadow Creek Park, which offers fly fishing classes, paddleboard, kayak, and mountain bike rentals, and guided climbing adventures. Did we mention there’s rock climbing at Meadow Creek as well. Monterey Crag offers 16 climbing routes. Climbers can access the area from the park’s secondary entrance along Connor Drive. Here, explorers can also take in a large cave and waterfall.
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