Sweetwater Valley Farm — Attraction in Philadelphia

My wife and I had come across this place a few years ago while visiting family in the area. We didn't have time to stop during that trip but resolved to do so in the future. We actually allotted an extra day to visit this shop as well as another local artesan, Benton Country Hams. So very glad we made the time! For many different reasons, this place should be a "must stop" when one is visiting eastern Tennessee. It is a lovely, well maintained farm sprawling happily across what must be hundreds of acres of equally beautiful countryside. There are tours, calf visits and other activities for those who would like to get a glimpse of a real working farm. There is a rustically charming little cafe and gift shop. MOST importantly...there is a cheese shop. Let me explain. I am a North Carolina boy raised by a couple of "damned Yankees " from Vermont. My dad started his working life on a farm that made very high quality cheddar cheese for their family and they spoiled him when it came to great cheese. Additionally, Vermont itself has internationally recognized fromageries that have been producing amazing cheeses for a hundred years. This man RUINED me for cheese! I love all cheeses but have a tender spot for cheddar. I was excited to see if SWF would satisfy my demanding standards for cheesy comestibles. I must say, in all honesty, standards not only met but exceeded! We tried MANY different varieties and found ALL of them to be excellent! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and we enjoyed the time there. We will be going back! In addition to the outstanding cheeses they have amazing dry cured game sausages! Standouts? The 2016 Reserve Cheddars (both yellow and white) were delicious, rivalling some of the best I have ever tried from Vermont, New York or even England. The extra sharps were beautiful and their flavored cheeses (normally not my favorite) were THE best I have ever tried. The Elk salami was gorgeous! I felt that prices were excellent for the quality. All in all? A wonderful spot to visit and some of the best cheese you...

An Unexpected Gem on Our Road Trip!

We happened upon Sweetwater Valley Farm completely by chance after spotting their billboard while driving through Tennessee on vacation — and what a fantastic surprise it turned out to be! This farm was not on our original itinerary, but it quickly became one of the most memorable stops of our entire trip.

From the moment we pulled in, we were struck by how peaceful and scenic the area was. The grounds are absolutely beautiful — a perfect blend of working farm and welcoming visitor destination. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, and the staff made us feel right at home.

We initially stopped just for a quick treat, thinking we’d grab some ice cream and stretch our legs. Well, that plan turned into lunch at their Café, and we’re so glad it did. The grilled cheese sandwiches were made with their own farmstead cheddar — perfectly melted, rich, and bursting with flavor. Paired with chips and a local soda, it was the ultimate comfort meal.

And then came the ice cream… oh my goodness. Creamy, rich, and delicious — easily some of the best we’ve ever had. You could truly taste the freshness. It was the perfect way to cool off and relax on a hot afternoon.

After lunch and dessert, we wandered into the cheese shop and were absolutely blown away by the variety. They produce all of their cheeses on-site using milk from their own cows. We picked up several blocks of cheddar (including hickory smoked and garlic pepper), and every single one has been a hit since we returned home. They even had cheese curds and fun gift items!

This place is more than just a farm — it's an experience. Whether you’re a cheese lover, traveling with family, or just looking for a wholesome stop off the beaten path, Sweetwater Valley Farm is absolutely worth the visit.

Highly recommend detouring here — your taste buds will...

We live about an hours drive away but never hesitate to make a little road trip every so often to stock up on their cheeses, especially their smoked gouda and cheese curds, which are difficult to find elsewhere. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable here. There is a little buffet table which has precut pieces of all of the types of cheese they produce so you can try before you buy. It's kept clean and they have plenty of toothpicks and napkins. You can have a many free samples as you like. They just require that you only take one sample of cheese per toothpick. Don't let Celia catch you double dipping the cheese with the same toothpick!

While you are shopping you can watch in real time how cheese is made through a room sized window adjoining the store that shows the "factory". They also have tours which originate from the other building on the premise(which also houses a cafe), and have a gift shop stocked with local honeys, jams, and smoked meats.

These tours aren't like museum tours. All the tour guides also work at the farm so they are very knowledgeable about every aspect of cheese making. This is actually one of the very few tours my children don't get bored with. Pro Tip: Be sure to ask about "Ol Red".

All in all, there is something for everyone. FYI, it is handicap friendly property. My dad is handicapped and would often be embarrassed at other places when he needed to take a little extra time to get around. Everyone here treated him kindly and with respect and were very patient and understanding. Thank you Sweetwater Valley Farms for your kindness to my father!

You know a place is worthwhile when the locals frequent the establishment!. Whether you're in the area visiting some of the other sites, or just passing by, be sure to stop by and visit. You'll be...