Greenback Weekend Guide: Castles, Countryside and Quiet
Greenback is small, rural, and full of surprises. A hand-built castle, a heritage museum, Tellico Lake shoreline, and some of the best fall farm fun in the county. This is a slow weekend done right.
Day One: Castle and History
Morning: Greenback Castle at 250 Lee Shirley Road. Floyd "Junior" Banks built this sprawling folk-art castle by hand over three decades from recycled materials, and dedicated it to God. It is free to visit during the day, donations appreciated. Junior often gives personal tours himself.
Afternoon: The Greenback Heritage Museum at 6725 Morganton Road, open Tuesday through Saturday 10 AM to 2 PM. Artifacts, photos, and farm tools tracing the area back to the 1800s. Across the street, the historic Greenback Depot, built in 1914 and listed on the National Register, now operates as the Historic Train Depot Retreat.
Evening: Dinner at the Greenback Diner, a community staple for over a century. Then coffee at Bluestem Hollow, showcasing organic farm produce.
Day Two: Lake and Farm
Morning: Tellico Lake at the Morganton landing, a public access point with a boat launch and parking. Swim, fish, or just walk the shoreline.
Afternoon: In the fall, Maple Lane Farm does pumpkin picking and haunted hayrides. Year-round, stop at Rocky's Place Ice Cream with its mini-golf course next door, and browse the Depot Mercantile & Market farmers market on Tuesday mornings.
Where to Stay
Greenback is rural, so most visitors stay in Maryville or Lenoir City, both about 20 minutes away. Lakefront vacation rentals on Tellico Lake are the best bet for staying close.
Good to Know
Parking: Free everywhere. The castle has a small gravel lot.
Best timing: Fall for Maple Lane Farm. The museum keeps limited hours, so plan around Tuesday through Saturday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Greenback Castle?
A hand-built folk-art castle constructed over 30 years by Floyd "Junior" Banks from recycled materials. Free to visit during daylight hours.
Is there lake access near Greenback?
Yes. The Morganton landing on Tellico Lake offers public boat launch, parking, and shoreline access.
How far is Greenback from Knoxville?
About 35 minutes south via Highway 411.
Want the full rundown? See my Things to Do in Greenback, TN guide.