Former tourism director new owner of Tour the U.C.

Former Putnam County tourism director Molly Brown is the new owner of Tour the Upper Cumberland, a regional tour bus company, serving the 14-county region.

With tourism experience and accolades dating back to 2005, former Putnam County Tourism Executive Director Molly Brown will now add entrepreneur to her travel industry resume. Serving as the new owner of Tour the Upper Cumberland, Brown plans to elevate and expand the tour agency highlighting attractions, history, experiences and other points-of-interest of the 14-county region. 

During the last 10 years, Brown has marketed the Upper Cumberland to visitors and travel media, both in her roles with the local visitors bureau, and as the Public Relations Media Manager for the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Brown specialized in planning regional tours while also building strong relationships with Upper Cumberland hospitality partners. 

“Upon departing from the visitors bureau in mid-October, I was ready for a new chapter,” said Brown. “I knew I wanted to stay in the travel industry but focus on something more entrepreneurial.

“This opportunity allows me to utilize my industry experience and relationships to serve a sector I am passionate about, while featuring the small businesses, unique attractions, and various points-of-interest of my community and region,” added Brown.

A native of Fentress County, Brown’s tourism background is marked primarily in public relations, which requires planning of press tours for travel journalists and social influencers. Her familiarity with hosting such tours, as well as already having established relationships with key tourism partners in all 14 counties, should fair well for the newly acquired business. 

“There is so much opportunity for continued tourism growth in the Upper Cumberland,” said Brown. “From some of Tennessee’s most renowned state parks to historic landmarks to brewery, winery and distillery tours, there’s something for everyone.”

Initially, Brown will be auditing and reviewing the current website, social media platforms, and tours established by the previous owners. Additionally, she plans to determine target markets and grow the business to offer multiple tours per week with booking options for local residents and visitors.

Examples of expanded options include tours such as a Native American Heritage Tour, connecting with Monterey’s Standing Stone Day Festival, as well as a History & Heroes Tour, highlighting local military history, veterans’ halls, and Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park.

Brown also plans to partner with Tennessee State Parks and Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area to feature the countless outdoor experiences of the region, from waterfall tours to guided hikes to ranger meet & greets.

Private tours, family reunions, corporate retreats, and familiarization tours for relocating or prospect industry teams/leadership will also be a focus for Tour the Upper Cumberland. Pricing and booking information will be announced at a later date.

Expanding the tour options will create a need for expanding the Tour the Upper Cumberland team. Brown is currently accepting resumes and plans to hire tour guides and CDL-licensed drivers.

Businesses, attractions, and other hospitality partners from the region are encouraged to reach out with interest in being featured as a tour stop or as a sponsor.

All inquiries may be directed to tourtheuc@gmail.com.