Butler Tennessee is just outside of Cherokee National Forest, two state parks and has a unique historic area.

Butler, Tennessee, with a population of 3.669, is located in Johnson County, TN and 16.9 miles from Johnson City, TN.

The closest airport to Butler is Elizabethton Municipal Airport (OA9).

Butler, Tennessee was established in 1769.

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Butler Attractions:

Butler Museum provides a depiction of life in the 1940s before the Tennessee Valley Authority released enough water to cover an entire town. More than 400 families were forced to pack up their lives and literally move their homes three miles away. The townspeople of Old Butler saved what they could and through their tireless work. The 200-year-old history of the Watauga River Valley has been preserved in this museum. In August, the town that wouldn't drown is celebrated with music, games, exhibits, and food. Festival attendees learn why the town was moved and even meet some of the former residents.

Cherokee National Forest - This self-guided walking tour of downtown Bulls Gap is offered at the Town Hall located on South Main Street, off Highway 11E. Buildings and architecture show the influence of the railroad on the lives of the citizens of Bulls Gap and the importance that it retains today. Adjacent to the Archie Campbell Museum and Tourist Center. Year round. Free.

Roan Mountain State Park encompasses 2,006 acres of southern Appalachian forest at the base of 6,285 foot Roan Mountain. Park elevation ranges from 3,000 feet in the valley to around 3,700 feet on surrounding ridges. Rich hardwood forests allow for a great diversity of life and a wide range of outdoor activities. Park guests have opportunities to hike along creeks and ridges, fish for trout, play tennis, swim, tour a century old farmhouse, join rangers and naturalists for educational programs, and enjoy mountain music concerts. The park has overnight cabin rentals, camping, swimming, fishing, hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Sycamore Shoals Historic Area - Sycamore Shoals Historic Area is open from daylight to dark each day. The Visitors Center, which houses an interpretive facility with information, historic displays, and a theater, is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Picnicking is available at Sycamore Shoals with tables and grills provided. A two-mile fitness trail constructed jointly between the park and adjacent hospital is also available.

Warriors' Path State Park was named for the park's proximity to the ancient war and trading path used by the Cherokee. Since that time, the park land has known a long history of travelers, and is still a pathway for modern-day outdoor enthusiasts. The 950-acre area was acquired from the Tennessee Valley Authority is 1952, to serve the people who live in or visit this section of Northeast Tennessee. It is situated on the shores of TVA's Patrick Henry Reservoir on the Holston River.

Butler Festivals:

Old Butler Days - This festival celebrates the heritage of Butler with music, games, exhibits and food! Learn why the town was moved and meet some of the former residents.

Shady Valley Annual Cranberry Festival (in nearby Shady Valley) - The Shady Valley Annual Cranberry Festival is held on the 2nd full weekend in October. On Friday evening, 5:00PM-7:00PM is the Bean Supper, and Auction. Both activities are at the Shady Valley Elementary School. Saturday is an all day event. There is a pancake breakfast at the Shady Valley Volunteer Fire Hall. At 10:00AM a parade starts at the Shady Valley Presbyterian Church and includes the Johnson County Band, floats, Citizen of the Year, Johnson County Car Cruisers Club, horses, and much more. The parade ends at the school grounds where the rest of the festival takes place. This festival has been called the "The Best Little Festival in Tennessee."

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