We’re in South Pittsburg, and no we’re not in Pennsylvania. We’re in Tennessee at the home of one of the most famous names in American cookware. This is Lodge Museum of Cast Iron.

For over a hundred and twenty-five-years Lodge Cast Iron has been cooking up the classics of our country’s cuisine. And in that time, they have produced a crazy assortment of cookware and other items – including the kitchen sink. This is the oldest and longest running cast iron manufacturer in the United States.

And today they celebrate that history and the history of American food here in their impressive museum. You can learn about the Lodge story, learn how they make their famous products, and learn any and everything about cast iron.

There’s something to be said for the heft and permanence of good old cast iron. It’s something that is at once a piece of cookware, a classic collectable, and even a family heirloom. I bet there are more than one of you out there who still have your grandma’s Lodge cast iron skillet somewhere in your kitchen. But I’m guessing that none of them are quite like this guy.

Say hello to the world’s largest cast iron skillet. At 14,360 pounds and 12 feet in diameter that’s heavier than 3 pickup trucks and bigger than a hot tub. Just think of how many fried eggs you could cook up on that bad boy.

And speaking of big and bad – this is Big Bad Breakfast. It’s the perfect complement to your visit to Lodge. Not only do you get to enjoy some of those cast iron favorites, you can also order the Cornbread Omelet to honor the annual National Cornbread Festival held every year here in South Pittsburg.

And folks, the name of the town, South Pittsburg is no coincidence. The town founders wanted it to become as famous for its iron production as its namesake in Pennsylvania. I’d say thanks to Lodge Cast Iron they got that just right.

The museum itself is as much fun as it is educational. There are a ton of interactive exhibits here. And just like any good museum, there is an incredible gift shop. The Lodge Factory Store is a great place for great deals, and the perfect spot to pick up your next cast iron classic.