Rocky Top’s Revitalization: A Community on the Rise

There’s a quiet energy building in Rocky Top, and it’s hard to miss. Since 2022–2023, our downtown area has gradually come alive with locally owned businesses that are redefining what this town has to offer. Main Street is no longer just a route to pass through — it’s slowly becoming a destination.

Coffee lovers can now enjoy handcrafted specialty lattes and locally inspired offerings at Coal Creek Coffee. Fans of smoked flavors can find some of the area’s finest BBQ at GrumpaBear BBQ. Shoppers can discover unique finds at Thrifty Treasures, pick up essentials at Coal Creek General Store, or explore home goods at South Main Furniture & Mercantile.

At Southern Shots Photography, we’re proud to be part of this story as a locally owned multi-media company documenting the growth and vibrancy of our community. These businesses aren’t just commercial ventures — they’re the heartbeat of Rocky Top’s revitalization. Each storefront represents investment in the community, a commitment to preserving the town’s character, and a signal that Rocky Top is open for growth and opportunity.

The story doesn’t end here. We hope to see more businesses join the community, contributing to a stronger, more vibrant downtown. Visitors and residents alike are encouraged to take a stroll down Main Street — from Vols Diner to the north end of town — to see firsthand how Rocky Top is evolving.

The momentum is real: Rocky Top is a community that welcomes new ideas, supports local entrepreneurs, and is steadily moving toward a brighter future. Together, residents, travelers, business owners, and locally owned companies like ours are helping shape a downtown that honors the past while embracing its potential.