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Sweetwater Valley Farm

4.8
·2k reviews·Philadelphia, United States

Experience farm-to-table freshness with award-winning cheeses, robotic dairy tours, and delicious cafe treats at Sweetwater Valley Farm.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Tuesday-Saturday Lunchtime

Cafe is open for delicious sandwiches

CrowdMedium
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Sweetwater Valley Farm - Image 1

Sweetwater Valley Farm

Best Time

Tuesday-Saturday Lunchtime

Cafe is open for delicious sandwiches

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience farm-to-table freshness with award-winning cheeses, robotic dairy tours, and delicious cafe treats at Sweetwater Valley Farm.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"It really was extremely educational and informative. A very enjoyable experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Taste Before You Buy

Don't miss the sampling table in the cheese shop! Try before you commit to buying your favorites.

🥛 Don't Skip the Milkshake!

Locals and visitors rave about the milkshakes. Try unique flavors like Pina Colada or Cake Batter!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Award-Winning Cheeses

Award-Winning Cheeses

Cheese Shop

Sample and purchase a wide variety of delicious, farm-made cheeses, from mild to extra sharp and spicy.

Robotic Milking Tour

Robotic Milking Tour

Dairy Farm

Witness cutting-edge dairy technology with a tour of their impressive robotic milking facility.

Gooey Grilled Cheese

Gooey Grilled Cheese

Cafe

Indulge in the best grilled cheese sandwiches, made with their own farm-fresh cheese.

Farm Fresh Milkshakes

Farm Fresh Milkshakes

Cafe

Cool down with a variety of delicious milkshakes made with their own dairy products.

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Planning Your Visit

Farm-to-Table Freshness

Experience authentic farm-to-table goodness at Sweetwater Valley Farm. This working dairy farm offers award-winning cheeses, delicious shakes, and grilled sandwiches. It's a true taste of East Tennessee's agricultural heritage.

Plan Your Visit

Sweetwater Valley Farm is a working dairy, so check their hours for the cheese shop and cafe. Tours are available and highly recommended for an educational experience. Come hungry for their famous grilled cheese and milkshakes!

Best Times

When
Tuesday-Saturday Lunchtime
Why
Cafe is open for delicious sandwiches
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, 9 AM - 5 PM
Why
Cheese shop is open for tasting
Crowd
Low
When
Saturdays, 9 AM - 5 PM
Why
Full farm experience available
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🐄🧀 Just a short drive from Tennessee National, you’ll find Sweetwater Valley Farm — a local gem where East Tennessee’s farming traditions meet incredible flavor. From fresh dairy to handmade cheese, it’s the perfect taste of homegrown goodness right in our backyard. #tnliving #tnnational #resortliving #knoxville #easttn
tennesseenationalresort
47 likes • 1.4K views

🎯 Taste Before You Buy

Don't miss the sampling table in the cheese shop! Try before you commit to buying your favorites. Instagram

🥛 Don't Skip the Milkshake!

Locals and visitors rave about the milkshakes. Try unique flavors like Pina Colada or Cake Batter! InstagramReddit

The products made at Sweetwater Valley Farm start and end at the farm. From the grain grown to feed the cows, the milk gathered and sent to the processing plant 20 yards away, and then cheese sold at the store in the same building. It doesn’t get more #local than that!! #SeedToSandwich When you #PickTNProducts you are supporting Tennesseans and Tennessee jobs. Find more local food with our direct...
picktnproducts
38 likes • 1.4K views
Stop #3 the Sweetwater Valley Farm cheese shop. Mom and I are big cheese lovers. The best local cheese from mild,extra sharp to spicy. We love a super sharp cheese. We got a good variety of cheeses. They have samples of all the cheeses so you can try before you can buy. The smoked habanero cheese is so good. It's my new favorite. Come out and support your local farmers. They do school tours and sh...
chefrachel50
1 likes • 147 views

🚜 Book a Farm Tour

The tours, especially the robotic milking, are highly educational and entertaining. InstagramReddit

🧀 Cheese Curd Alert!

If you're looking for authentic cheese curds for poutine, Sweetwater Valley Farm is the place to go. Reddit

Located in the rolling hills of Philadelphia, Tennessee, Sweetwater Valley Farm is a thriving, diversified farming operation that offers a true farm-to-table experience. Home to over 1,500 dairy cows, a herd of beef cattle, and acres of crop production, the farm is best known for its award-winning farmstead cheeses. 🧀🐄 Guests can take the immersive “Red Cow Farm Tour” to explore the state-of-the-...
visitloudoncounty
96 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Taste Before You Buy

Don't miss the sampling table in the cheese shop! Try before you commit to buying your favorites. Instagram

🥛 Don't Skip the Milkshake!

Locals and visitors rave about the milkshakes. Try unique flavors like Pina Colada or Cake Batter! InstagramReddit

🚜 Book a Farm Tour

The tours, especially the robotic milking, are highly educational and entertaining. InstagramReddit

🧀 Cheese Curd Alert!

If you're looking for authentic cheese curds for poutine, Sweetwater Valley Farm is the place to go. Reddit

🚗 Easy Parking

Plenty of parking is available, making your visit hassle-free. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Sweetwater Valley Farm for its delicious, high-quality farmstead cheeses and the unique experience of seeing a working dairy farm. The friendly staff, educational tours (especially the robotic milking), and tasty cafe offerings like grilled cheese and milkshakes are frequently highlighted as major draws. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some visitors might find it hard to choose from the vast cheese selection.

"We really enjoyed visiting and doing the tour to see the robotic milking machine, the cattle and the cheese tasting. David, our tour director was not only outstanding at explaining all the details of the milking operation and details on the cows, his humor was very appreciated! Everyone at the farm was extremely friendly and made us feel most welcome. After tasting most of the 30 different variations available we did end up purchasing 2, smoked habenero and black pepper. We strongly suggest anyone interested in farm life, milk production, cheese making, etc., take the time to visit Sweetwater Valley Farm. It really was extremely educational and informative. A very enjoyable experience."

Billy Ritch

"Great place to visit. Farm fresh cheese and shakes. They have amazing grilled cheese and grilled sandwiches! They also have a cute little shop and a store they sells cheese and meats. They do tours of the dairy farm as well. Parking was easy. I would recommend stopping in if your ever in the area."

Athena Phillips

"First time visiting Sweetwater Valley Farms, they have a huge selection of cheese which are all amazing. They have a little restaurant, which I have to say, they have the Best grilled cheese sandwich!! And we tried the mini shakes which were delicious. We will definitely visit again."

Charlotte Banyard

What People Like

Award-winning farmstead cheeses
Educational farm tours
Delicious grilled cheese & milkshakes

What People Dislike

Difficulty choosing from many cheeses

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sweetwater Valley Farm is located at 17988 W. Lee Highway, Philadelphia, TN 37846. It's situated between Philadelphia and Sweetwater on Highway 11, with a beautiful drive up to the farm. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's well-marked and accessible from Highway 11. The drive up to the farm is scenic. Reddit

Turn off Highway 11 onto a beautiful drive leading up to the farm. The farm is a working dairy operation. Reddit

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the farm. TikTok

From Knoxville, take Highway 11 South towards Philadelphia. The farm will be on your right. The drive is approximately 30-40 minutes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the cheese shop and cafe is generally free. However, tours of the dairy farm may require a ticket or booking in advance. It's best to check their official website or call ahead. Instagram

The cheese shop is typically open Monday-Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM. The cafe, serving lunch, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 3 PM. Hours can vary, so it's recommended to confirm. Instagram

Tour pricing can vary. It's advisable to check the Sweetwater Valley Farm website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on tour costs and availability. Instagram

The cheese shop is typically closed on Sundays, but it's always a good idea to verify their hours directly as they can change seasonally. Instagram

No, there is no admission fee to enter the cheese shop. You can browse and sample the cheeses freely before making a purchase. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can sample and buy a wide variety of award-winning cheeses, enjoy delicious grilled cheese sandwiches and milkshakes at the cafe, and take an educational tour of the dairy farm, including their robotic milking system. InstagramReddit

Yes, they offer tours that showcase their dairy operations, including the impressive robotic milking machines and the cattle. These tours are highly recommended. InstagramReddit

They offer a large and diverse selection of cheeses, including mild, extra sharp, spicy, smoked habanero, black pepper, and buttermilk varieties. Samples are available. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is a cafe that serves lunch, including their famous grilled cheese sandwiches and delicious milkshakes. InstagramReddit

As a working dairy farm, you can see their herd of dairy cows, especially if you take a farm tour. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The cafe offers amazing grilled cheese sandwiches, other grilled sandwiches, and a variety of delicious milkshakes. InstagramReddit

The grilled cheese sandwiches and the farm-fresh milkshakes are highly recommended. Don't forget to try the smoked habanero cheese! InstagramReddit

Yes, their grilled cheese sandwiches are a popular vegetarian option. Many of their cheeses are also vegetarian-friendly. Instagram

They offer a rotating lineup of milkshakes, including classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, as well as unique options like Orange Creamsicle, Cake Batter, and Cookies and Cream. Instagram

Absolutely! The cheese shop sells a wide array of their farm-made cheeses, as well as homemade bread, jelly, and jams. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the scenic rolling hills, the impressive dairy farm facilities, the cows, and of course, your delicious cheese and milkshake. The cheese shop itself is also photogenic. Instagram+1

Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the cows and the general farm scenery. For specific areas or close-ups of the milking operations, it's best to be mindful of ongoing work. Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be respectful of the working farm environment and any staff or other visitors. Instagram

The golden hours of early morning or late afternoon can provide beautiful lighting for capturing the farm's landscape. Instagram

There's a window to the factory where you can see how things get done, which offers a great photo opportunity. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sweetwater Valley Farm offers a fun and educational outing for families. Kids will be fascinated by the working dairy farm, especially the robotic milking machines on the tours. InstagramReddit The cheese shop provides a chance for little ones to try new flavors, and the cafe's milkshakes are always a hit. InstagramReddit The ample parking makes it easy to manage with strollers or multiple children. Reddit Consider packing snacks, though the cafe offers kid-friendly options like grilled cheese. The farm setting provides a great opportunity for children to learn about where their food comes from in a hands-on way.

🧀 Cheese Aficionados

For true cheese lovers, Sweetwater Valley Farm is a paradise. The extensive selection of award-winning farmstead cheeses is the main draw, with a remarkable variety of flavors, from mild to intensely sharp and spicy. InstagramReddit The ability to sample nearly all the cheeses before purchasing is a significant advantage, allowing you to discover new favorites. Instagram Don't miss out on unique options like the smoked habanero or black pepper cheeses. Reddit The farm's commitment to producing cheese entirely on-site ensures the highest quality and freshness. Instagram

🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers

Sweetwater Valley Farm is an ideal stop for those exploring East Tennessee. It's conveniently located off Highway 11 and offers a perfect blend of delicious food, unique shopping, and educational experiences. TikTokInstagram You can easily spend a couple of hours here enjoying a fantastic grilled cheese lunch, indulging in a decadent milkshake, and stocking up on artisanal cheeses to take home. InstagramReddit The scenic drive to the farm adds to the road trip experience. Reddit It's a great way to break up a longer journey and support a local business.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sweetwater Valley Farm Experience: From Seed to Cheese

Sweetwater Valley Farm is more than just a cheese shop; it's a testament to the power of vertical integration and a commitment to local agriculture. As highlighted by visitors, the entire process, from the grain grown to feed the cows to the milk processed just yards away and the final cheese sold in the same building, happens on-site. Instagram This dedication to a 'Seed to Sandwich' philosophy ensures unparalleled freshness and quality. The farm is home to over 1,500 dairy cows and acres of crop production, making it a significant operation in East Tennessee. Instagram

Visitors consistently praise the award-winning farmstead cheeses, with many recommending trying the smoked habanero and black pepper varieties. InstagramReddit The opportunity to sample almost all 30 different variations before purchasing is a major draw, making it hard for many to choose just a couple. Reddit Beyond the cheese, the farm's cafe offers a delightful culinary experience, with their grilled cheese sandwiches and farm-fresh milkshakes being standout items that draw rave reviews. InstagramReddit

The farm also embraces modern agricultural technology. John Harrison, the owner, was recognized as 'Tennessee Farmer of the Year' in 2022, partly due to his pioneering work with robotic dairy facilities. Instagram Taking a tour to see these robotic milking machines in action is a unique and educational experience that many visitors find fascinating and highly informative. Reddit This blend of traditional farming values and innovative technology makes Sweetwater Valley Farm a truly special destination.

Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Fellow Travelers

Planning your trip to Sweetwater Valley Farm is straightforward, but a few insider tips can enhance your experience. The cheese shop is a must-visit, offering a chance to taste a wide array of their artisanal cheeses. Redditors and Instagrammers alike emphasize the importance of the sampling table, encouraging visitors to try before they buy, as the selection is vast and tempting. InstagramReddit Many visitors find it difficult to limit their purchases, often buying more than they initially intended due to the quality and variety. Reddit

When it comes to dining, the cafe's grilled cheese sandwiches and milkshakes are frequently mentioned as highlights. InstagramReddit The cafe is open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday, so plan your visit accordingly. Instagram For those seeking specific items, Sweetwater Valley Farm is noted as a place to find authentic cheese curds, a sought-after ingredient for poutine. Reddit Parking is generally easy and plentiful, removing a common travel stressor. Reddit

Finally, consider taking a farm tour, especially to see the robotic milking process. InstagramReddit These tours are described as educational and entertaining, providing valuable insights into modern dairy farming. Reddit The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere contribute significantly to the overall positive experience, making visitors feel right at home. Reddit

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