Kingston: History, Parks, and Waterfront Trails

When deciding whether Kingston fits your travel plans, two highlights stand out: the history at the fort and courthouse, and the parks, trails, and activities by the water. The sites differ both in their history and in the leisure opportunities described.

Historic Sites and Collections

Fort Southwest Point was built by federal troops in 1797. The site has been partially reconstructed and rebuilt at its original location. The visitor center houses a museum with artifacts excavated under the supervision of the Tennessee Department of Archeology. The fort’s reconstruction and the archaeological artifacts thus offer different ways to explore historical topics.

The Historic Roane County Courthouse offers a different historical perspective. It is one of only six antebellum courthouses in the state and houses an archive library as well as a transportation museum. The building’s history, archives, and transportation each provide a distinct focus. Compared with the fort, the emphasis here is on a historic courthouse and the collections it houses.

Parks, Trails, and Waterfront Scenery

Kingston City Park is on Watts Bar Lake. Fort Southwest Point State Historic Park also has a walking trail along the lake. The Betty Brown Memorial Walking Trail also runs along Watts Bar Lake: this three-mile trail is intended for walking and jogging. Several options with different descriptions and connections to the lake are therefore available.

Southwest Point Park offers a different view of the landscape. It sits on a hill overlooking Watts Bar Lake, where the Clinch River and Tennessee River meet. Ladd Park & Greenway is in Kingston at the confluence of the Clinch River and Emory River. It has a 3.8-mile loop for biking, walking, and working out. The loop is therefore 0.8 miles longer than the three-mile Betty Brown Trail; the listed activities also differ: biking and working out are included at Ladd, while the Betty Brown trail is for jogging.

When choosing between these trails, you can consider both their length and the uses listed for each. One is designated as a loop, while the other is a lakeside trail for walking and jogging. The parks also differ in their scenery: descriptions of trails along Watts Bar Lake emphasize their proximity to the shore, while the other two sites are at river confluences or on a hill overlooking the lake.

Recreation at Kingston Steam Plant

Fishing from the shore is possible at Kingston Steam Plant, and the park is also suitable for birdwatching. It is also home to a 9/11 memorial made of World Trade Center steel. Recreation and remembrance thus sit side by side here. Opening hours may change, so check them before your visit.

History, collections, and outdoor trails give Kingston a varied profile for travel planning. If you’re looking for a hotel in Kingston, these different highlights can help you organize your interests for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Harriman, Rockwood.

Return to the main travel overview: Roane County.