Founded in 1806, Sparta was named after Laconia, Greece, because both were built on small rivers. The region was sparsely settled in the early 1800s. Soon, pioneers who came across the Cumberland Mountains were astonished by its beauty and at once began building settlements.
Throughout its 200-year history, Sparta has continued to grow, proudly preserving and sharing its story with those who visit.
This “Land of Falling Water” offers amazing hiking, Virgin Falls, Bridgestone/Firestone Centennial Wilderness, Burgess Falls State Park, antiques and local eateries, bluegrass heritage, Hwy 111 and scenic Hwy. 70, the Historic “Broadway of America.”
Spend time in Historic Liberty Square in Downtown Sparta and its historic buildings and homes, shops, restaurants, art galleries and windows full of antiques. This courthouse square is a must-see with a perfect mix of hometown flavor and days gone by. Wander into the White County Military Museum for a look at local heroes and battles. In this historic vein, stop by the Rock House Shrine, a famous stagecoach stop and early American frontier home, where Presidents James K. Polk and Andrew Jackson often stopped on their way from Nashville to Washington D.C.
If you fancy the great outdoors, be sure to check out Sunset Rock, a bluff line 75 feet above the highway where you can see the town of Sparta and 50 miles of breathtaking Tennessee countryside. Also, enjoy an unforgettable experience at Amazin' Acres of Fun, where you can pet and feed farm animals, milk Dixie the cow, play in the corn box and enjoy many other agricultural activities.
