Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

In Maryville, Tennessee, trying something new doesn’t have to mean taking on a big commitment. You don’t need to train for a marathon, sign up for a six-month course or spend a fortune on gear. Around here, a fresh experience might look like biking a new trail, rolling up to a jam session or stepping into a yoga class for the first time. 

If you’re looking to add a little variety to your week, here are a few low-key options happening regularly around town. 

Community Benefit Sale 

Fourth Fridays | 8:30–11:30 a.m. | New Providence Church 

Each month, volunteers host a large community sale in the church gym. You’ll find secondhand clothes, housewares, toys, seasonal items and more. Proceeds support over 20 local charities, and the sale’s been running for more than 50 years. Arrive early and keep your elbows out to snag the best deals. 

Splatter Vault at Creative Spark Studio 

Photo courtesy of Creative Spark Studio.

By reservation | Creative Spark Studio 

You get a canvas, 30 minutes and a room designed for making a mess. The Splatter Vault is a paint-flinging, low-stakes way to try something creative without worrying about the outcome. Protective gear is provided, and you leave with a unique work of art. 

Maryville College Downtown Center Workshops 

Photo courtesy of Maryville College.

Ongoing | Maryville College Downtown Center 

The Maryville College Downtown Center, recently established, opens up their hands-on workshops to the community. Recent topics have included cheese making, canning and beginner homebrewing. Visit their website to see what’s up next. 

Maryville Farmers’ Market 

Saturdays | 8:30–11:30 a.m. | Founders’ Square 

Every Saturday from April to November, vendors set up in downtown Maryville selling produce, baked goods, handmade crafts and more—all grown or made by the folks behind the tables.  

Craft vendors join the market once a month. Upcoming dates include Aug. 16, Sept. 20, Oct. 18 and two holiday markets, set for Nov. 8 and 15. 

Brewhouse Flow Yoga 

Saturdays | 10:45 a.m. | Peaceful Side Brewery 

Brewhouse Flow Yoga takes place right inside Peaceful Side Brewery, and it’s as relaxed as it sounds. This all-levels yoga class wraps up with a post-stretch pint and brunch in the taproom. 

Townsend Community Yoga 

Saturdays | 9:30–10:30 a.m. | Peaceful Side Social (Townsend) 

If the brewery flow isn’t your vibe, head just down the road to Townsend for a quiet, beginner-friendly yoga class in Peaceful Side Social’s garage room. 

Cycology Greenway Rides 

Sundays | 4:00 p.m. | Pearson Springs Park 

This is a slow-paced social ride through Maryville’s greenway system. It’s a good fit if you’re just getting back on a bike or want to learn the local trails. Helmets and water are required. 

Cycology Women’s Ride Series 

Saturdays | Through October | Locations vary 

This seasonal ride series is designed for beginner and intermediate women cyclists. Rides are grouped by pace, and you’ll also have access to clinics on everything from basic maintenance to injury prevention. 

Rocky Branch Jam Sessions 

Fridays | 6:00–10:30 p.m. | Rocky Branch Community Center (Walland) 

On Friday nights, musicians with banjos, fiddles, mandolins and guitars gather at an old-school gym for acoustic jam sessions. Just make a short drive to Townsend and stay as long as the music keeps going. Admission is by donation.  

Maryville Billiards 

Photo courtesy of Maryville Billiards.

Open Daily | Downtown Maryville 

This pool room is non-smoking, family-friendly and geared toward both casual and competitive players. It features several Diamond tables and runs regular leagues and tournaments. Cues are available to rent if you’re just dropping in. 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.