A Seniors’ Day Out in Townsend, Tennessee 

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Townsend is the perfect place for a seniors’ day out. You can spend the whole day on fairly flat ground, park close to what you want to see and find plenty of places to sit. Tuesdays and Thursdays are the calmest days to visit, so try to plan for those if you can. Here is our recommended itinerary. 

If you prefer a paper copy, you can print it here.

Early Morning: Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center 

Start your morning at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. It’s right in Townsend and tells the story of this side of the mountains. Seniors 60 and older get in for 10 dollars. 

The nice thing is that you can choose how active you want to be. If you want to stay inside, explore the museum galleries and the Cherokee collection. If you’re up for a little more walking, step outside to the 19th century buildings and farmstead. On some days, there are historic interpreters in period dress. 

Bonus Stop: Towns End Coffee

If you need a quick boost before the next leg, Towns End Coffee is right down the road. They do classic espresso drinks, plus fun local flavors like the Little Brier Latte (blackberry and white chocolate) and the Lumber Ridge Latte (vanilla, maple, butter, cinnamon). Light brunch options include breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast and bagels. 

If you’ve been to Towns End Coffee before, please note that they recently moved to a drive-thru location at 7971 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882.

Midmorning: Scenic Drive on Foothills Parkway 

Head up to the Foothills Parkway from the Townsend side and enjoy panoramic mountain scenery. Overlooks are close to the car. You can even bring a folding chair and sit for a spell. 

Lunch At the Townsend Abbey 

The Townsend Abbey is a fun surprise. You can eat inside the old chapel space or sit by the river. The menu is easy: salads if you want something light, Miss Lily’s chicken salad sandwich if you like a little sweetness, or flatbreads and steamed sandwiches if you’re hungrier.  

For more lunch options, visit our Townsend restaurant directory here. 

Early Afternoon: Townsend River Walk and Arboretum 

Walk the Townsend River Walk and Arboretum after lunch. It’s shaded and gentle. You’ll come across several points of interest, including fairy villages, a pollinator garden and artwork made by locals.  

Bonus Stop: Townsend Artisan Gallery

If you like local art, stop by the Townsend Artisan Gallery afterward. It’s indoors and usually pretty calm. You can see what local artists are making and maybe pick up a piece to remember your day. They’re closed on Tuesdays and Sunday mornings, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. 

Late Afternoon: Cades Cove 

Finish your day with a drive through Cades Cove. Coming from Townsend makes it simple. The loop road lets you see open fields, mountain backdrops and historic cabins mostly from your car. Afternoon traffic can be slow, which is nice for sightseeing. If you prefer a quieter Cove, go in the morning and move the museum to the afternoon. 

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.