Southern Appalachian cuisine is a blend of British, German and Italian immigrant traditions, along with Cherokee and African American influences—at least, that’s what Google says. Ask a local, and they’ll tell you it’s about clearing your plate, going back for seconds (or thirds), and still heading home with leftovers—especially if Mamaw’s cooking.
Shaped by rugged mountains and harsh winters, Southern Appalachians have long mastered the art of making the most of what’s available. For generations, foraging for ingredients like ramps, blackberries and black walnuts, along with canning, pickling and preserving, has been a way of life. Today, restaurants on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies carry on these traditions with their own modern twist.
Well, what are you waiting for? We’ve saved you a seat.
Southern Appalachian Staples
Before diving into the best places to try these dishes, here’s a breakdown of some key ingredients and meals that define Southern Appalachian cuisine:
Benton’s Bacon & Country Ham: World-famous ham slow cured in East Tennessee using salt, brown sugar and sodium nitrite.
Biscuits and Gravy: Not to be confused with the British cookie. Soft, flaky bread rolls served for breakfast.
Blackberries: In season from July to October. Enjoyed as-is, or in jams and cobblers.
Black-eyed Peas: Bean introduced to the region by West African enslaved people in the 17th century. Said to bring good luck in the New Year.
Cobbler: Dessert consisting of a fruit poured into a large baking dish and covered with a batter or biscuit.
Collards: Hardy greens that can survive the winter and summer. Like black-eyed peas, said to bring good luck in the New Year.
Fried Green Tomatoes and Fried Okra: Southern summertime delight. Maybe not what the doctor had in mind when they said to eat your vegetables.
Pimento Cheese: A.K.A. “Southern Caviar”. A blend of shredded cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayo and spices, typically served with crackers or as a sandwich.
Pinto Beans and Cornbread: Budget-friendly and hearty meal.
Ramps: Wild onion in season from mid-March to early April. Eaten raw or cooked.
Wild Mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms, Chicken of the Woods and morels are some of the most common.
Wild Nuts: Black walnuts, pecans and American Chestnuts are some of the most common.
Confit Rabbit Pasta – Confit rabbit leg, roasted ham hock meat, Benton’s bacon, preserved lemon, local oyster mushrooms, braised onions, smoked chicken velouté, baby kale and Italian apron pasta.
Veal Picatta & Pasta – Crispy veal sweetbreads, Benton’s bacon, preserved lemon, crispy capers, local oyster mushrooms and Italian apron pasta.
Green Goddess Salad – Artisan lettuce, cucumber, heirloom tomatoes, shaved radish, pickled red onion, cornbread croutons and spring herb dressing.
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.
With the school year wrapping up, now’s the perfect time to sign up for summer camp on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. From hiking and swimming to crafting and dancing, there’s an adventure waiting for every kid and teen.
Blount County Parks & Rec hosts day camps that are all about getting active, ranging from sports training to outdoor games.
“Just Get Outdoors” Nature Adventure Camp (Ages 8–12): A fun, outdoor camp where kids explore stream and forest ecology through hands-on lessons in plant and animal biology, animal tracking and nature crafts in a positive, engaging environment.
May 27–30, 2025
Camp Chickababa (Children with disabilities, Ages 6+): Specially adapted for campers with disabilities, this inclusive camp offers therapeutic and fun activities—like arts & crafts, music, and indoor/outdoor games.
Week 1: June 23–27, 2025
Week 2: June 30–July 4, 2025
East Tennessee Quarterback and Receiver School (Rising 6th–8th grade): This camp focuses on developing passing and receiving skills through drills and techniques designed to enhance Quarterback and Receiver play.
June 9–11, 2025
East Tennessee Football School for Offensive and Defensive Linemen (Rising 6th-8th grade): This camp provides position-specific instruction for offensive and defensive linemen, focusing on drills and techniques to build essential skills.
June 9–11, 2025
Future Stars Football Skills Camp (Rising 2nd–5th grade): This camp provides fundamental instruction for all offensive and defensive football positions, helping campers build skills and gain a deeper understanding of their preferred roles through targeted drills and activities.
June 16–18, 2025
Girls Volleyball Camp (Rising 5th–9th grade): Designed for beginner to intermediate players, this camp helps improve volleyball skills and overall court performance while preparing students for school tryouts.
May 27–29, 2025
Marsh Madness Basketball Camp (Ages 8–12): This camp teaches campers fundamental basketball skills and position-specific techniques to help them grow in the game.
June 23–26, 2025
“Camp Move” by Stretch-N-Grow (Ages 3–10): This weekday summer camp offers a variety of enrichment activities including Stretch-N-Grow programs, STEM, crafts, games, relays, obstacle courses, and afternoon water play or swimming.
Week 1: June 2–6, 2025 Week 2: June 9–13, 2025 Week 3: June 16–20, 2025 Week 4: June 23–27, 2025 Week 5: July 7–11, 2025 Week 6: July 14–18, 2025 Week 7: July 21–25, 2025 Week 8: July 28– August 1, 2025
MLK Youth Summer Day Camp (Ages 5–12): This camp offers a variety of activities including a literacy program, computer lab, swimming, field trips, outdoor games, arts & crafts and more, with breakfast and lunch provided.
May 27–June 27, 2025
Soccer Camp (Ages 5–13): This camp offers technical and tactical instruction focused on enhancing individual ball control and skill development.
June 2–5, 2025
Softball Camp (Rising 3rd–8th grade): This camp focuses on the fundamentals of throwing, fielding, hitting, base running and sliding.
June 2– 4, 2025
Sports and More Kids’ Camp (Ages 5–14): This camp offers sports stations for campers of all skill levels to experience a variety of activities, focusing on teamwork, individual achievement and sportsmanship in a fun, positive environment.
Week 1: June 3– 6, 2025 Week 2: June 10– 13, 2025
Track and Field Camp (Ages 6–12): This camp provides instruction on track and field competition, focusing on drills and techniques to develop speed, running form, field event skills (shot put, discus, long jump, high jump and triple jump), and strategies for both sprinters and distance runners.
July 7–9, 2025
Performing Arts Camp (Ages 8–13): This camp is perfect for young performing artists, offering skills in theater, dance, music, prop making/design and more, taught by professionals in each area.
June 16–20, 2025
Wrestling Camp (Ages 6–14): This camp teaches proper wrestling positions—top, bottom, and neutral—along with techniques like pinning and combinations, and includes drills and a takedown tournament/live wrestling session.
June 9–12, 2025
Beach Week Boogie Battles by Stretch-N-Grow (Ages 3–8): This fun-filled camp features beach-themed dancing, relays, races, crafts, STEM activities and more, ending with a Foam Party Finale.
June 23–25, 2025
The Wild West with Water Battles by Stretch-N-Grow (Ages 3–8): This Wild West-themed camp features daily water battles, rodeo games, sack races, wet obstacle courses, crafts, STEM activities and more.
May 27–30, 2025
Fitness Stars Field Days by Stretch-N-Grow (Ages 3–8): This camp brings classic outdoor fun with competitions, sports, relays, games, crafts, STEM activities and more, topped off with a Foam Party Finale.
July 7–9, 2025
Give It a Tri – Youth Sprint Triathlon Camp (Ages 8–14): This camp introduces youth to the world of multisport, offering daily instruction in swimming, biking and running, and culminating in a mini sprint mock triathlon led by USATriathlon Certified Coach Kat Uchman.
Photo courtesy of the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.
The Tremont Institute offers overnight summer camps in the Smokies. These all-inclusive experiences are designed to connect campers with nature and new friends from across the country.
While they tend to fill up quickly, there are a few camps that are still open for registration.
Firefly Camp (Ages 4–8, with accompanying adults): This flexible one-, two- or three-night family camp in Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers games, nature exploration, stream wading, campfire fun and firefly watching—giving you and your child a fun, gentle introduction to the summer camp experience.
July 1–4, 2025
Teen High Adventure (Ages 13–17): This 10-day, 9-night backcountry adventure invites teens to explore the Smokies through seven days of backpacking, learning outdoor living skills, gaining confidence and connecting with nature—ending with a well-earned hot shower and a day of paddling.
July 14–24, 2025
Great Smokies Experience (Rising HS juniors, seniors and recent grads): This immersive 11-day college program blends outdoor adventure with environmental study, allowing students to earn college credit while exploring the Smokies through hikes, canoeing, species surveys and hands-on learning.
Creative Spark Studio, located in Maryville, is offering a variety of four-day art camps for ages six and up.
All Things Paper (Ages 8–15): In this four-day art camp, young artists of all skill levels will explore papermaking, bookbinding and sculpture, culminating in an art show.
May 27– 30, 2025
T-shirt lap quilt (Ages 8–15): In this four-day camp, young creators of all skill levels will learn machine and hand sewing techniques to craft their own t-shirt lap quilt, ending in an art show.
May 27– 30, 2025
Tropical Oasis (Ages 6–12): In this four-day camp, budding artists of all skill levels will explore painting, drawing, sculpture and mixed media, celebrating with a final art show.
June 3– 6, 2025
Fantastical Universe (Ages 6–12): In this four-day camp, young artists will explore the wonders of the universe through painting, drawing, sculpture and mixed media, wrapping up with an art show.
June 10–13, 2025
Drawing and Illustration (Ages 8–15): In this four-day camp, young artists will focus on drawing and illustrating 3D images while exploring other creative mediums like painting and collage, concluding with an art show.
Van Metre School of Dance, located in Maryville, will host three dance camps and provide private classes.
Fairytale Camp (Ages 4–7): This camp offers lessons in ballet, jazz, modern and choreography for an exciting and magical summer experience.
June 9–13, 2025
Intermediate Camp (Ages 7+): This camp offers a variety of technique, conditioning and performance classes, including ballet, pre-pointe, modern, jazz and hip-hop.
June 9–13, 2025
Summer Intensive (Ages 12+): This camp offers a variety of technique, conditioning and performance classes, including ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, contemporary and hip-hop; pointe required.
Broadway Center of the Arts has four intensive musical theatre camps planned. Two are still open for registration.
Camp Pure Imagination (Rising 9th grade–2025 HS grads): This 5-day performing camp offers a week full of theatrical fun and learning, culminating in a performance.
June 16–20, 2025
Camp The Lion King KIDS (Rising 2nd–8th grade): This 5-day performing camp featuring The Lion King KIDS offers a week full of theatrical fun and learning, culminating in a performance.
Camp Wesley Woods, located in Townsend, is a faith-based retreat center focused on spiritual development and outdoor education. They offer a variety of sleepaway camps throughout the summer.
Discovery Half-Week (2nd–4th grade): This first overnight camp experience is designed for young campers to try new activities, make friends and become part of the camp community with fun activities like swimming, archery, campfires and exploring the creek.
June 30–July 2, 2025
Basecamp (4th–10th grade): This camp offers campers the opportunity to unplug, make new friends and try new activities like swimming, archery, pottery and fishing, while growing in their relationship with God and enjoying special events throughout the week.
Week 1: June 1– 6, 2025
Week 2: June 22–27, 2025
Week 3: July 20–25, 2025
Adventure Glamping (6th–10th grade): This camp offers campers the chance to stay in air-conditioned accommodations while participating in adventurous activities like caving, paddling, climbing and hiking, all while exploring East Tennessee and deepening their relationship with God.
Week 1: June 1– 6, 2025
Week 2: June 8–20, 2025
Week 3: July 6–18, 2025
Week 4: July 20–25, 2025
Leader-in-Training (Rising 10th grade): This program offers campers the chance to develop servant leadership skills through hands-on experience, while gaining new skills in camp operations, having fun and making new friends.
June 22–27, 2025
Gym Counts
Gym Counts, located in Maryville, offers full and half-day gymnastics camps for ages 5–13.
The camps will feature a mix of indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, and gym-based activities such as gymnastics, parkour, ninja warrior courses and trampoline instruction.
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, children in Blount County wrote letters to Santa Claus for publication in the local newspaper. These letters, spanning the 1920s through the 1960s, record Christmas wishes and everyday life across the county.
The 1920s
In the 1920s, Blount County was still rural, and Christmas lists reflected everyday life. Children asked for dolls, wagons, beads, wristwatches and BB guns. Apples, oranges, nuts, candy and chocolates appear again and again, listed alongside toys. Coats and gloves appear without explanation. Most children asked for only a few things.
Some children were more imaginative. Sampson, 1921, requested a few firecrackers and torpedoes, claiming that he’d tried “ever since last year to be as good as [he] can.” Photo courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
Late 1920s to 1930s
Letters to Santa from the late 1920s and 1930s. Photos courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
As the county moved into the late 1920s and 1930s, many of the same items stayed on Christmas lists. Children continued asking for wagons, bicycles, marbles, balls and toy guns. Fruit and candy appear year after year. Some lists grew longer. Others stayed brief. Toys and practical items continue to appear together.
Late 1930s to 1940s
By the late 1930s, Christmas lists expanded again. Children asked for a wider range of toys, including trains, tool sets, horns, sparklers and balls. Fruit, nuts and candy rounded out longer lists.
Stanley and Jerry Kirby, 1938. The oldest brother butters up Santa, calling him “the best looking man in Maryville.” Photo courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
As the decade turned and the 1940s began, lists tightened. Children still asked for dolls, balls and small toys, but requests became shorter and more exact.
Jo Ann, 1941, carefully itemized the price of each item she hoped to receive. Photo courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
The 1950s
Letters to Santa from the 1950s. Photos courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
By the 1950s, Christmas lists reflect a growing toy market. Children named specific gifts. Tiny Tears dolls are popular, along with doll buggies, doll furniture and playsets. Toy guns, cowboy and cowgirl outfits, tricycles, coloring books and crayons show up across multiple letters.
The 1960s
Letters to Santa from the 1960s. Photos courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
By the 1960s, Christmas lists leaned into popular toys of the moment. Children asked for Thirsty Cry Baby dolls, skates, army men, helmets, periscopes and sleds. Some lists included jewelry and Bibles.
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.
Little Arrow Outdoor Resort has become one of Townsend’s standout places to stay by offering a version of camping that feels a little more comfortable and a lot more memorable.
Located on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, the resort features RV sites, cabins, glamping tents, tiny homes, Airstreams and vacation homes, along with guest favorites like a pool, hot tub, hiking trails, river access and a pavilion for events.
Photo: Little Arrow Outdoor Resort
For Carmen Simpher, co-owner and CEO, the experience begins the moment guests arrive.
“What I like most is when guests come across the bridge, pull onto the property and you see the look on their face,” she said. “The mountains, the nature, the trees—that’s a win.”
Little Arrow began with a shared dream between Simpher, her sister and her brother-in-law.
“When the property where Little Arrow is came up for auction, my sister looked at me and said, ‘You know camping.’ She and my brother-in-law know tiny homes, and together we thought we could do something unique.”
Simpher said the project has brought their family closer together.
“It’s sometimes up and down, but you learn a really good trust,” she said. “Sometimes there’s trial and error, but you learn from the errors. I like to say, ‘You either win or you learn,’ and that’s what we do.”
Little Arrow’s appeal comes from the way it blends the outdoors with comfort. Guests can settle into a range of accommodations while enjoying amenities like the 24/7 Point & Feather Coffee Lounge, quiet hiking trails, a zero-entry pool with grottos and splash pad, a hot tub, sport courts, a dog park, two river access points, a boutique store, a playground and a community fire pit.
“I love to be outside, but I want a nice shower and a nice bed,” she said. “I’m done with sleeping on the dirt in a tent, so we elevated that.”
Her favorite way to explain it is simple.
“I like to camp, but my sister prefers the Ritz-Carlton, so together we try to create the best of both worlds.”
Groups can also book the Lookout Pavilion, which includes a double-sided fireplace, a catering kitchen, an audiovisual system and seating for up to 125 for weddings, reunions, parties and corporate retreats.
Amenities aside, the most meaningful part of Little Arrow is the way guests connect with the place and with each other.
“I hope my love for joy, my love for seeing people smile and the glory God’s given us in this beautiful location come through,” she said. “We want people to feel that and enjoy it.”
Over time, that has shown up in the lasting memories families build there.
“The people who were coming here years before we were even here, that’s pretty cool,” she said. “I’ll have people tell me their children learned to swim in the pool here, and now they have kids or grandkids of their own.”
“I love seeing kids and families having a good time together, not on screens, just outside enjoying nature and doing activities,” she said.
Simpher said the resort regularly welcomes visitors from near and afar.
“We are blessed to have both,” she said. “We love our locals. They’re usually really big repeat guests. But we also have guests from Florida, Alabama and Ohio.”
As Little Arrow expands, Simpher said protecting the resort’s identity matters just as much as adding something new.
“Customer service and the property, having things well maintained and well taken care of,” she said. “Those two top priorities are what we want to focus on: rolling out the red carpet to our guests, but also all the little details.”
That attention to detail comes naturally to her.
“For me, it’s difficult to turn it off,” Simpher said. “I get ideas at 9 p.m., and my management team will chuckle and say, ‘You emailed me at 9 p.m. last night,’ and I say, ‘Yeah, just leave it until tomorrow.’”
Recent additions include Secret Slice, the on-site pizza spot from the creators of Towns End Coffee + Shop, where guests and locals can stop by for pizza, wings and salads next to the Lookout Pavilion.
Simpher is just as thoughtful about what Little Arrow means for Townsend.
“We love Townsend,” she said. “Some people worry it might turn into something loud and bright, but no business I know wants that to happen. We want it to be a little more plush, more relaxed, with that peaceful mountain vibe.”
Her vision for that balance is “peaceful with a pulse.”
“We don’t want it to be a ghost town, but we also don’t want it to be a big, lit-up, loud circus,” she said.
She takes the same view of other businesses in Townsend.
“My other thing is community over competition,” Simpher said. “We want all of the businesses to thrive. If all of our business neighbors are doing well, we’re doing well.”
“The walkable aspect is huge,” she said. “You set up your camper, you’ve been working hard, and then you walk to Company Distilling and relax, have a cocktail and listen to some music. It’s a win.”
No matter which property guests choose to stay at, Simpher’s message is the same.
“Come here, have a good time and let us love on you.”
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Summer fun on the Peaceful Side doesn’t require a big vacation budget.
Across Maryville, Alcoa and Townsend, visitors can cool off at local pools, explore museums, catch free concerts, watch drive-in movies, play indoor games, float the Little River and attend seasonal events for $25 or less.
This guide is organized by base adult price, using the lowest realistic entry point for each activity. Taxes, fees, rentals, parking, add-ons and advance-booking requirements may vary, so confirm current details before you go.
Downtown Maryville has a full summer soundtrack with the Levitt AMP Maryville Music Series. Held at the Maryville Greenbelt Amphitheater in Jack Greene Park, the series brings free concerts to the heart of Maryville every Thursday from July 2 through July 30, 7 to 9 p.m.
Upcoming performers include Darrell Scott on July 2, Chatham County Line on July 9, Cedric Burnside on July 16 and J & The Causeways on July 23. The series closes July 30 with Wyatt Ellis, an East Tennessee mandolinist, singer and songwriter whose bluegrass sound has earned national attention.
Admission is free, with donations appreciated. The museum is open daily from May through October, with Monday through Saturday hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday hours from 1 to 5 p.m.
The Cades Cove Museum at the historic Thompson-Brown House in Maryville preserves stories, photographs and artifacts from families who lived in Cades Cove before the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Admission is free, though donations are welcomed. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Blount County Historical Museum adds another free local history stop in Maryville. Exhibits highlight the people, places and stories that shaped Blount County.
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are welcomed.
The Blount County Public Library turns summer reading into a full-season program, with reading challenges for all ages and programs tied to dinosaurs, archaeology and history. The 2026 Summer Reading program runs June 8 through July 25.
The library calendar also includes summer movies, teen activities, chess, storytimes and other free programs.
The Sam Houston Historic Schoolhouse offers one of Maryville’s most affordable history experiences. Adult admission is $5, with lower rates for children ages 6 to 12 and free admission for ages 5 and under.
John Sevier Pool in Maryville and Springbrook Pool in Alcoa both keep summer swimming affordable. Adult daily admission is $5, and admission drops by $1 after 5 p.m.
One of Townsend’s best summer values is the amenities pass at Tremont Lodge & Resort. For $10, or $25 for a family of four, non-overnight guests can stop by the front desk and purchase a wristband for resort amenity access from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Amenities include an indoor pool, outdoor pool, outdoor movie screen, picnic area, firepit area, gazebo, pickleball court, fitness center, lounge and poolside bar.
Little River Campground & RV Resort also opens its pool to non-overnight guests. The campground has a $10 day pass, available for purchase at the camp office. The pool is open May through September from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Parkway Drive-In in Maryville turns a movie night into an outdoor double feature. Adult admission is $10 for two movies, with children ages 5 to 12 at $5 and children 4 and under free.
Movies play rain or shine, and gates typically open at 7 p.m.
Crest Bowling Lanes in Maryville makes rainy-day fun affordable. Games are $4 per person Monday through Thursday and Friday before 6 p.m. Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday games are $5.50 per person. Cosmic Bowl runs from 10 p.m. to midnight at $5 per game. Shoe rental is $3.75.
The Armory brings a new indoor entertainment venue to Maryville this summer. Opening July 20, the 27,000-square-foot space includes duckpin bowling, digital darts, a 9-hole putting course, shuffleboard, yard games and Valo Arena experiences.
Valo Arena is the lowest-cost offering, at $5 per person per game. Several weekday games also stay under $10, including Lucky Putt at $8 per person per game, Supercharged Shuffle at $6 per person per hour and duckpin bowling at $6 per person per game Monday through Thursday. Interactive darts are $10 per person per hour.
River Rage Tubing offers all-day tubing passes for $25 in Townsend. The route averages about an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and 30 minutes, depending on water levels.
The season runs through Labor Day and may be extended if weather allows. The minimum age is 6, and visitors can book online and check availability before going.
Smoky Mountain River Rat gives visitors access to two Townsend tubing routes with one day pass. During peak season, advance adult day passes are listed at $24.99 when booked at least two days ahead. Peak-season tickets purchased within two days cost more.
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend shares the history and culture of the Smokies through museum exhibits, historic structures and programs. Adult admission is $15, with reduced admission for seniors, children and veterans.
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center continues the experience outdoors with summer concerts in its covered amphitheater. The calendar includes July and August performances, including Sunset Concert Series dates on July 10, July 31 and Aug. 28.
Ticket prices vary by show, with Sunset Series tickets generally in the $5 to $25 range.
The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival returns to Townsend on Aug. 15 from 3 to 9 p.m. General admission is $10 in advance or $15 at the gate, with children 10 and under free. Parking costs $20 in advance or $25 at the gate.
For a guided Cades Cove experience, book a hayride with Cades Cove Riding Stables. Hayrides are $25 for ages 16 and up and $15 for ages 2 to 15.
The operating season runs March 3 through Nov. 30, with daily hours from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Rides are subject to weather and trail conditions.
Plan Ahead and Spend Less
The best low-cost summer days often come down to timing. Book tubing in advance, check weekday pricing, visit pools after 5 p.m. and look for presale tickets when available. With a little planning, a fun outing can cost less than $25 per person.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.
Quiet is a luxury. The Peaceful Side of the Smokies has everything you need, minus the noise.
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) connects the region to more than 30 nonstop destinations. From the airport, it’s roughly a 13-minute drive to Maryville, 25 minutes to Walland and 34 minutes to Townsend, depending on traffic.
From full-service destination resorts to lodge-style retreats, these are the Peaceful Side’s top luxury stays.
Destination Resorts in Walland
Walland is home to two of the region’s most nationally recognized luxury properties. Both are set in the foothills on expansive private land, with on-site dining and guided experiences built into the stay.
Blackberry Farm operates like a self-contained estate, with 68 guest accommodations ranging from rooms and suites to cottages and multi-bedroom houses. It was named the No. 1 resort in the South in Travel + Leisure’s 2024 World’s Best Awards and was also recognized on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Gold List.
Photo: Blackberry Farm
The Farm’s culinary program centers on its Foothills Cuisine. The Barn serves multi-course dinners, and Food & Wine named Blackberry Farm the Best U.S. Hotel for Food and Drink in its 2025 Global Tastemakers Awards.
Guests can build their days around a schedule of guided experiences, from fly fishing and horseback rides to tastings and farm tours. On-property hiking spans a 12-mile trail network, with routes ranging from moderate to challenging.
Blackberry Mountain takes a more modern approach to the same foothill setting, spanning 5,200 acres and dedicating 2,800 acres to conservation. Accommodations include lodge stays as well as standalone options, ranging from cottages and treehouses to cabins and multi-bedroom homes. In 2024, Travel + Leisure readers ranked it the No. 2 resort in the South.
Photo: Blackberry Mountain
Three Sisters, the flagship restaurant in the Lodge, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a dinner menu that changes daily and an international beverage list. Firetower, built around a restored 1950s lookout tower, offers a three-course dinner experience with sunset ridgeline views.
The property emphasizes movement and recovery, with more than 36 miles of private trails, plus an indoor climbing wall and a ropes course. Nest, the on-property spa, is the first Joanna Czech–certified spa in the United States.
Elevated Stays in Townsend
Townsend sits along the route into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park via US-321/TN-73, which runs through town and into the park. The town’s standout stays combine direct park access with on-site amenities, dining options and curated add-ons.
Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro covers 38 acres and offers 28 accommodations. Room categories range from studio-style cabins to two-bedroom cottages and villas with full kitchens, fireplaces and hot tubs.
Photo: Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has earned national recognition, including a spot on OpenTable’s 2026 list of Top 100 Romantic Restaurants. It also appeared on Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Fine Dining Restaurants in the U.S., placing at No. 21.
The property has about two miles of trails for walking, plus add-ons like in-cabin massage and reservations for off-site excursions like fly fishing, horseback riding and clay shooting.
Little Arrow takes a premium-outdoors approach in Townsend, with accommodations that span glamping tents, cabins, tiny homes, Airstreams, vacation homes and full-hookup RV sites. It earned a No. 3 ranking for Best Glamping Spot and a No. 6 ranking for Best RV Campground in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
Photo: Little Arrow Outdoor Resort
Amenities include a 24/7 coffee lounge, a zero-entry pool with grottos, splash pad and hot tub, sport courts, a dog park, and river access points for swimming and fishing. Spa time is part of the mix, too.
Tremont Lodge & Resort is a newly renovated property with updated room and suite options. Many rooms include a Keurig coffee setup, mini-fridge, microwave, and a patio or balcony. Select suites add extras like a fireplace and a full kitchen.
Photo: Tremont Lodge & Resort
On-site dining is limited but covered in the morning with a complimentary continental breakfast. A pool bar opens later in the day. Other amenities include a fitness center, game room, outdoor movie screen, outdoor and indoor pool, firepit area and pavilion.
Boutique Comfort in Maryville
Maryville is closest to the airport, but it still sits on the corridor that leads through Townsend and into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It has more city amenities, while still offering quieter places to stay.
RT Lodge sits on the campus of Maryville College, surrounded by more than 155 acres of private woods. Guest rooms are simple but elegant, with a king or two single beds finished with luxury linens.
The Restaurant at RT Lodge is listed in the MICHELIN Guide, one of only a handful of East Tennessee restaurants to earn the distinction. The kitchen shapes its menus around what’s in season, with ingredients sourced from local farms and regional providers. Dinner is offered both à la carte and as a tasting menu. The Morningside Room serves cocktails, rotating local beers and a curated wine selection, plus bar snacks and a casual dinner menu.
Photo: The Restaurant at RT Lodge
Recently, the property expanded with The Carriage House, a dedicated day spa with seven treatment rooms offering massages, facials and body treatments, along with private lounge areas and a sauna. The Meeting House is another new addition, a glass-walled event space designed for weddings, retreats and corporate gatherings.
Evenings at RT Lodge close softly with complimentary s’mores at the firepit.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
While Maryville may be situated in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, its music scene is anything but quiet. Rich in talent, heart and heritage, this small town has produced an impressive range of nationally recognized artists. Here are six Maryville natives who’ve made their mark on the music world.
Every summer, musicians from all over the country gather on the Maryville College campus for Steve Kaufman’s Acoustic Kamp. What began as a single flatpicking workshop has grown into the largest event of its kind in the world, drawing students of all ages and skill levels to study guitar, fiddle, mandolin, bajo and more under the guidance of world-class instructors.
A three-time National Flatpicking Champion, Kaufman is a living legend in the acoustic music world. Born into a musical family, Steve explored piano, cello, electric guitar and finally acoustic guitar—where he found his lifelong passion after hearing Doc Watson for the first time. By 21, he had already won his first national title, eventually becoming the only three-time winner in the contest’s history.
Steve’s influence stretches far beyond performance. Since the ‘80s, he has created more than 100 instructional books and videos, taught thousands of students and toured the world hosting clinics, concerts and workshops. Dubbed the “World’s Guitar Instructor,” Steve’s legacy is built not just on technical mastery, but also on a passion for sharing the joy of music. You can explore his work, tour dates and teaching materials at flatpik.com.
Robinella is a genre-blending songstress, weaving together bluegrass, country and jazz. A native of Maryville, she first gained national attention as the lead singer of Robinella & the CC Stringband. Their unique sound earned them a deal with Columbia Records, a national tour and appearances alongside legends like Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson and Earl Scruggs. She also graced the stages of NPR’s “Mountain Stage,” PBS’s “SoundStage” and “Late Night with Conan O’Brien.”
Following her early success, life brought Robinella back home to the Smokies, where she found renewed inspiration in family, faith and the slower rhythms of life. Her more recent work, like the acclaimed Fly Away Bird, reflects a deeper emotional richness—poetic, heartfelt and rooted in personal truth.
Her music continues to evolve, but her voice remains as soulful and sincere as ever, drawing in longtime fans and new listeners alike. Robinella’s albums are available on all your favorite streaming services, and she announces her upcoming performances on her Facebook page.
Jackie Lee is a soulful country artist born and raised in Maryville who has made it all the way to the Grand Ole Opry stage. Lee was immersed in music from an early age, singing in church and learning instruments like drums, guitar and piano. His father, a professional musician, nurtured his passion, leading him to record in a studio at just six years old.
A standout at Alcoa High School, Lee helped his team win two state football championships, but music had a stronger pull. At 17, he left football behind and moved to Nashville to hone his craft.
Jackie’s debut single, “She Does,” released in 2014, showcased his rich vocals and garnered critical acclaim, marking him as a standout in the country music scene. His subsequent releases, including “Getting Over You,” reflect a blend of traditional country roots with modern influences, resonating with millions of listeners nationwide. You can find his music on all the major streaming platforms, but every now and then, you might just catch one of his songs on the radio.
Mike Cross is a veteran singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist born in Maryville and raised in Lenior, North Carolina. Over the past few decades, he has built a national following through his energetic performances, humorous songwriting and distinctive blend of folk, blues and country music. He calls his unique style “Appalachian Mountain Boogie Blues.”
Although he didn’t pick up an instrument until college, a spontaneous guitar lesson during his junior year at the University of North Carolina led him down a new path. He soon began writing songs and incorporating stories and poetry into his music. He’s appeared on national television and radio shows, including The Smothers Brothers CBS Special, NPR and the Dr. Demento Radio Show, where his 1973 song “The Scotsman” became a fan favorite and was once voted “Funniest Song Ever Written.”
Mike has released 13 albums and toured extensively, performing everywhere from intimate folk clubs to major venues like Boston’s Symphony Hall. You can stream the best of Mike Cross on Spotify and YouTube.
Wyatt Ellis is the Peaceful Side of the Smokies’ rising star. Just 15 years old, the Maryville native began playing mandolin during the pandemic and quickly attracted national attention for his talent and dedication. Under the guidance of bluegrass legends like Sierra Hull, Bobby Osborne and Mike Compton, Ellis developed a style rooted in tradition with a youthful twist.
In just a few short years, Wyatt has gone from local jam sessions at Rocky Branch Mountain Music to the Grand Ole Opry. His 2024 debut album, Happy Valley, topped Billboard’s bluegrass sales chart, with ten of its twelve tracks reaching the Top 10. Known for his clean, expressive playing, Ellis has been praised by peers for his command of melody and rhythm well beyond his years.
His momentum has only grown in 2025, with standout singles like “Winds of Rowan County,” a duet with Peter Rowan, and “Choo Choo Coming.” Ellis has also appeared on RFD-TV’s Bluegrass Ridge and NPR affiliates, and is a regular on the bluegrass festival circut, where his sets consistently draw enthusiastic crowds. His music is available on all major streaming platforms, and tour dates are posted on wyattellismusic.com. To learn more about Ellis and how he draws inspiration from the Peaceful Side, check out our exclusive interview with him.
Jack Greene (1930–2013) was a Maryville-born country legend whose deep voice and towering presence earned him the nickname “The Jolly Greene Giant.” A longtime member of the Grand Ole Opry and a three-time Grammy nominee, Greene rose to fame with his 1966 breakout hit, There Goes My Everything. The song spent seven weeks at No. 1 and earned him a sweep at the CMA awards, including Male Vocalist, Single, Album and Song of the Year.
Greene’s musical journey began when he started playing guitar at ten years old. As a teenager, he worked as a DJ at WGAP and performed regularly on the Tennessee Barn Dance. After stints with bands in Georgia and Nashville, Greene’s career took off when Ernest Tubb invited him to join the Texas Troubadours in 1962. Encouraged by Tubb to go solo, Greene launched a successful career that produced five No. 1 Billboard country hits. He was one of the most played artists of his era.
From heartfelt solo ballads like “All the Time and Statue of a Fool” to popular duets with Jeannie Seely, Greene’s smooth vocals and exceptional depth earned him a permanent place in the hearts of country fans. He continued performing into the 2000s, celebrating 40 years with the Opry in 2007. Though he passed away in 2013, Jack Greene’s legacy endures. Jack Greene Park, located in the heart of Maryville, is named in his memory. His full discography is available to listen to on all major streaming platforms, but you might even get lucky and find his albums at local record shops.
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.
With an abundance of new places to dine, shop and play, downtown Maryville is undergoing a revival. Behind the scenes, city archivist Mark Bennett is bringing its history back to life.
Bennett, a Maryville native, stepped into his role about four years ago. Before that, he worked in genealogy, helping people trace their family trees. “I’ve always been interested in the past ever since I was a child,” he said. “I used to visit nursing homes and listen to the residents tell their stories. I was fascinated by them, and eventually I started trying to document the history.”
Right now, his biggest project is documenting the history of downtown Maryville. “I’ve come across some very interesting things—especially documenting when the buildings were constructed,” he said. “Some of those buildings didn’t have a written history at all.”
He’s been unofficially naming some of those buildings after the people who had them built. “You know where the new Raven’s Steakhouse is?” he said. “I wrote the history of that building. One of the former mayors, David Franklin Young (1873-1949), had it constructed around 1939.” He calls it the Dave Young building.
That research led to one of his favorite discoveries—the exact location of William Bennett Scott Sr.’s printing press. Scott, who served as Maryville’s first Black mayor in 1869, also published a local newspaper, The Maryville Republican. “It was on the eastern half of where Raven’s Steakhouse is located,” Bennett said. “On the western part of that lot, his son, William Bennett Scott Jr., had a small residence.”
Since taking the archivist role, Bennett has analyzed nearly every downtown deed. “That’s not a simple process,” he said. “I’ve had to work with some title attorneys. But when I do something, I’m gonna get it right.”
He’s found other traces of early Black-owned businesses downtown. “There’s a gap between Bill Cox and The Roost,” he said. “In the late 1800s, there were two small buildings there. On the eastern part of the lot, Charles Wallace had a barbershop, and on the western part, Thomas Lillard had a confectionary.”
Lillard served as an alderman—what’s now called city council—in Maryville. “There was a school named after him or his son across the street from the back of St. Paul A.M.E. Church,” Bennett said. “He was involved with education in the early 1900s.”
His research has also uncovered stories of early immigration. “We had a Joseph Arbeely, the first person ever to immigrate here from Syria,” he said. “That would’ve been in 1878. His family only lived here a few years, but they were very well accepted. His wife, Mary, is buried up at New Providence Presbyterian Cemetery, and one side of her tombstone is written in Arabic.”
Bennett said the oldest building in the original downtown—between Cates Street and Norwood—was built in 1885. “We don’t have any buildings downtown that were constructed before the Civil War,” he said. “None of them have lasted.”
“I found this old picture taken about 1900 of downtown Maryville. This picture is taken in the direction looking west and has the old courthouse (now former Blount Memorial Financial Center) that was burned in 1906 in it and the farthest building seen is where J. Danforth is now. The Racket store is where Brooke Nix is now. The gap between the courthouse and the Racket store was part of the courthouse square.”
He also traced the first location of The Daily Times. “That would’ve been where Bill Cox is, on the eastern corner,” he said. “There was a separate building there, and it was in that building, but that building perished in the 1906 courthouse fire.”
Bennett said some of the Quakers who came from Indiana and Ohio helped rebuild downtown after the fire. “Some of the Quakers lived near where Maryville High School is,” he said. “Some near where Miller Funeral Home is, and some close to where the Maryville Municipal Building is. There were others who came down from Indiana and Ohio, but they weren’t necessarily Quakers. The founder of The Daily Times, A.J. Neff, came from Indiana.”
He works from many sources—Sanborn fire insurance maps, newspaper microfilm, tax records, deeds and lease records—to build a complete picture. “Our earliest Sanborn map is from 1887, and the latest is around 1945,” he said. “I want a continuous history of downtown.”
That process has helped him correct long-accepted stories. “Some of the history that had already been done, I’ve been able to go back and correct some inaccuracies,” he said. “Some stories have been based off of lore, but when you get into the documentation, it can be contradictory.”
He’s also tracked downtown’s visual record. “I’ve been able to better date pictures now with this analysis,” he said. “There were some pictures that people said were taken earlier than I was able to place them, and I was able to put a more accurate timeframe on them.”
Bennett said he keeps up with what’s happening downtown because, as he puts it, “today’s events are tomorrow’s history.”
He often works with local business owners who want to know more about their buildings. “Some people will ask me the history of their houses, too,” he said. “It’s been tedious, but very rewarding.”
Recent investment has brought fresh life to downtown’s older buildings. “It’s called a renaissance right now,” Bennett said.
He hopes to share his research through guided walking tours next year. “I’d like to tell what used to be on Broadway,” he said. “There were horse livery stables, the first car garages and dealerships, and several murders downtown…It’s interesting to see the transition and how things have evolved over time.”
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.
At just 15 years old, Wyatt Ellis has already made a name for himself as one of the most exciting young talents in bluegrass music.
A native of East Tennessee, he picked up the mandolin during the pandemic and quickly earned the mentorship of legends like Sierra Hull and Bobby Osborne. His journey—from local jam sessions to the Grand Ole Opry—has been nothing short of remarkable.
In 2024, his debut album, Happy Valley, soared to the top of Billboard’s bluegrass sales chart, with ten of its twelve tracks landing in the Top 10. His momentum continued into 2025 with the release of “Winds of Rowan County,” a collaboration with bluegrass icon Peter Rowan.
Inspired by the region, Wyatt recently became the ambassador of the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. As he prepares to release a new album with his touring band, we had the opportunity to sit down with him to discuss his music, influences and advice.
You’re preparing to release a new album—what can fans expect from it?
It’s gonna be a hard-driving traditional bluegrass album with some more progressive elements—a fresh edge to the bluegrass that we all love.
Out of all the songs you’ve written or recorded, which one means the most to you and why?
My favorite song that I’ve written is probably my instrumental, “Blue Smoke,” from my album. But my favorite that I’ve ever recorded is one that’s gonna come out in the future called “Heartbreak Highway.”
Some say bluegrass is a dying genre, while others see a resurgence. Where do you think it stands today, and how do you see yourself shaping its future?
I think bluegrass is at a high point for sure, with people like Billy Strings bringing it to a whole new audience, and the younger generation like myself trying to keep it alive.
Bluegrass has deep roots in tradition, but you also bring a fresh take to the genre. How do you balance honoring the past while making music that feels new?
I think that came pretty naturally for me because I learned from the very roots of the music, like the Osborne Brothers and Bill Monroe, you know, the fathers of the music. But I also have studied a ton of other types of music like jazz, different types of country—just pretty much everything. I’m into everything a little bit. I think it all just kind of blends together.
When it comes to jazz, I love it all, from soul to bebop. I love Sonny Rollins. Of course, you have to love all the classics like Miles Davis. Pretty much anything within that genre I find interesting.
You’ve worked with some of the biggest names in bluegrass—what’s been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from them?
The community is so helpful, and everybody is like a big family. I think that really helped me to learn how to fit in with bluegrass in general.
The most important lesson I’ve learned through studying all types of music is to go back to the roots and build from there. I got that piece of advice from Bobby Osborne.
Bluegrass has its roots in Appalachia. What would you say to someone from outside the region who wants to get into it?
Whether you’re trying to learn it or listen to it, go back and listen to a little bit of everything from the genre. The old stuff and the new stuff. Just try to get an understanding of really what’s out there in bluegrass music.
Performing on big stages like the Grand Ole Opry at such a young age must have been nerve-wracking. Have you always been comfortable in the spotlight, or is it something you’ve had to grow into?
At the very beginning, I may have been a little bit nervous. But to be honest, I’ve never really gotten super nervous.
Right before the pandemic, I started out learning at a place called Rocky Branch [Mountain Music]. They were really welcoming and let me get up in front of some people and play. I think that really got me comfortable playing in front of people.
There aren’t too many people younger people around there, but they definitely welcome that in. It’s a great place for everybody of all ages.
Many people have described you as a child prodigy. Do you feel pressure from that title, or do you see it as motivation?
Eh, you know, I just keep on doing what I’m doing—just keep on my own track.
What advice would you give to other young musicians hoping to follow in your footsteps?
You’ve just got to be determined that you can do it and have the confidence to do it. And, like I said, learn it from the very roots that it came from.
The Peaceful Side of the Smokies has a way of inspiring people. Where do you go when you need to clear your mind or find new ideas for your music?
Well, I love to go up in the mountains […] and just be outside. I love to fly fish. Some of my favorite spots up there are Abrams Creek and Tremont.
You’re involved in conservation efforts in the Smokies. Can you share more about your work?
I’ve done a few things. I did a benefit down in Knoxville called Pickin’ Up the Pieces. We raised quite a bit of money. I don’t know exactly [how much], but probably around $20K. That was awesome. It benefitted waterways in the area.
For those who haven’t visited yet, what do you want people to know about the Peaceful Side of the Smokies?
If you’re coming to see the Smokies, [the Peaceful Side] is the place.
Want to learn more about Wyatt and the Peaceful Side? Follow us on social media for exclusive content (@peacefulsmokies).
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.
Mother’s Day weekend is here, and there are plenty of ways to spend it close to home. From brunch reservations to craft classes, here’s what’s happening around Maryville, Townsend and Louisville.
Harmony Family Center’s 14th annual Mudder’s Day Madness returns with a muddy 5K and fun run at Camp Montvale. The 5K runs from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and the fun run begins at 11:15 a.m.
Creative Spark Studio, 2009 E. Broadway Ave., Maryville
1 to 3 p.m.
Guests will make a set of needle-felted wool coasters during this hands-on class at Creative Spark Studio. The class works as a Mother’s Day outing or a handmade gift option.
Creative Spark Studio, 2009 E. Broadway Ave., Maryville
1 to 3 p.m. and 3 to 5 p.m.
Students will learn basic blacksmithing techniques while making a forged heart that can be used as a pendant, keychain, ornament or keepsake. The class is recommended for adults; ages 16 and up may attend with a guardian.
Raven will serve a special Mother’s Day brunch menu with shrimp and grits, beef tenderloin, smoked salmon, biscuits and sausage gravy, pancakes, fruit, desserts, pastries and more. The brunch is $55 per person.
Company Distilling will serve its Mother’s Day “Mom-osa” cocktail at the Townsend location. The drink features Nothing Vodka, orange juice, lemon juice, simple syrup and soda water.
Die Laughing Comedy will present a Mother’s Day comedy show at Two Doors Down. The show is for ages 18 and up.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Feeling cooped up after the holidays? Kick off the New Year with fresh air and a fresh start. Here are five gentle ways to get outside on the Peaceful Side.
Dogwood Arts’ Art in Public Places brings outdoor sculptures to spots around Maryville and Alcoa, and several are easy to pair with a walk on the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway.
The greenway is a paved route that stretches nine miles, connecting Springbrook Park in Alcoa with Maryville’s Bicentennial Greenbelt and Sandy Springs Park. You can park, walk a short section and admire public art.
Look for these installations on or near the greenway:
“Archaeopteryx” (John Parker) near the Blount County Courthouse greenbelt
“Airstream” (David Sheldon) at Jack Green Park
“Lil Blue” (Nathan Pierce) near Vienna Coffee House
“Cathedral” (Ann Melanie) across from the Alcoa Municipal Building
For a peaceful river walk, head to the Townsend River Walk and Arboretum. The path runs along the Little River and stays close to town.
Keep an eye out for the fairy villages tucked along the trail and the Children’s Discovery Garden. If you want to add a short side trail, the Bluebell Trail features a footbridge and a Little River viewing platform with benches.
Scenic drives are a calm way to feel the Smokies in winter. You get the views and fresh air, without needing a big plan.
Cades Cove is a classic near Townsend. The 11-mile, one-way loop circles the valley and gives you access to historic sites, trailheads and wildlife viewing.
For panoramic mountain views, the Foothills Parkway is the best option. The Walland to Wears Valley section is 14.75 miles one-way. This is the newer section, completed in 2018, with 10 designated waysides and overlooks along the route.
Alternatively, the Chilhowee to Walland section is 16.6 miles one-way. It has more pull-offs overall, with 16 parking areas and 14 scenic overlooks.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
From pumpkin carving and spooky runs to concerts, art classes and Halloween bashes, October brings fall color and festive fun across Blount County. Here’s what’s happening this month:
October 10 – Clay Handbuilding Class: Pumpkin Get your hands muddy in this guided clay handbuilding workshop at Creative Spark Studio from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., where you’ll create your own ceramic pumpkin. No experience is required. Participants ages 13 and up will shape, stamp and decorate their designs before selecting colors for glazing.
October 11 – Howl-O-Ween Dog Show Bring your Jeep, your pup and your Halloween spirit to Camp Wild Flowers in Townsend from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a tail-wagging day of fun. Enjoy costume contests, a “Lick-or-Treat” trail, vendor village, food trucks, raffles and prizes for the best-dressed dogs and Jeeps. Costumes are encouraged, and advance registration is open online.
October 11 – An Evening with Poe Spend a hauntingly perfect evening at The Bird and the Book in Maryville beginning at 7 p.m. with staged readings of Edgar Allan Poe’s eerie tales, paired with themed drink specials and delicious bites. Admission is free, and costumes are welcome.
October 12 – Pumpkin Carving Celebrate fall by carving your own jack-o’-lantern at Studio 212 in Maryville from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Students ages 8 and up (with an adult) or 16 and up alone will learn carving and texture techniques to create unique designs.
October 12 – Haunted House Workshop Create your own clay haunted house at Studio 212 in Maryville from 3 to 5:30 p.m. using guided handbuilding instruction. Add ghosts, cats and other spooky details. Ages 10 and up are welcome.
October 16 – Halloween Horror Trivia Test your spooky smarts at The Bird and the Book in Maryville starting at 7 p.m. during this Halloween-themed trivia night hosted by Lisa and Lynn. Enjoy themed food and drinks and come dressed to impress. Costumes are encouraged.
October 17 – Walloween 2025 The beloved two-night Walloween event returns to The Bird and the Book in Maryville beginning at 5 p.m. with live bands, art and community spirit—all to benefit the American Parkinson’s Disease Association. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated.
October 17 – Very Scary 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run Run, walk or zombie crawl through the Smokies in this spooky nighttime race at The Abbey in Townsend from 8 to 10 p.m. Participants receive themed swag, medals and shirts. Expect surprises—and a few scares—along the route!
October 18 – Fall Festival Enjoy a day of family fun at The Learning Lab Parking Lot in Maryville from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with local crafts, food and activities at this annual outdoor fair hosted by Blount County Public Library.
October 18 – Watercolor Class: Three Witches Paint a magical watercolor scene at Creative Spark Studio in Maryville from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. featuring three whimsical witches, guided step-by-step by local artist Yvonne. No drawing skills needed.
October 18 – Pumpkin Carving Carve a new clay pumpkin creation at Studio 212 in Maryville from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in this hands-on seasonal workshop. Tools and materials are provided; ages 8 and up with an adult or 16 and up independently.
October 18 – DIY Spooky Books Transform old books into eerie Halloween décor at Creative Spark Studio in Maryville from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in this imaginative class. All materials are provided, though participants may bring their own book or embellishments.
October 18 – Trinity Dental Fall Costume Ball Support local smiles at this festive fundraiser for Trinity Dental Clinic at White Star Station in Maryville from 6 to 9 p.m. Enjoy music by DJ Porter, food from The Lily Barn, a silent auction and costume contests.
October 21 – Appalachian Ghost Stories Local authors share ghostly tales from “25 Tales: Even More Appalachian Ghost Stories & Mysteries” at Neighborly Books in Maryville from 6 to 7 p.m.
October 23–25 – Dracula The Appalachian Ballet Company presents a daring new production of “Dracula” at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville. This world premiere blends movement, music and mystery in an intimate setting.
October 24 – DIY Pumpkin Décor Create two custom fabric pumpkins to match your home’s fall décor at Creative Spark Studio in Maryville from 1 to 3 p.m. Choose from chunky yarns, ribbons and embellishments.
October 24 – Downtown Maryville Spooktacular Extravaganza Bring the whole family downtown from 5 to 8 p.m. for this free Halloween celebration featuring trick-or-treating, a dog costume contest, a street dance party, carnival games and food vendors along West Broadway Avenue. Rain or shine.
October 25–26 – Beetlejuice JR It’s showtime at Broadway Center for the Arts in Maryville. Enjoy a family-friendly performance of “Beetlejuice JR,” packed with laughs, music and Halloween spirit from talented young performers.
October 25 – Halloween on the Lot Celebrate the season at Leonard Truck Outfitters in Maryville from 4 to 8 p.m. with candy handouts, raffles, games and costume prizes. Local businesses will showcase products and host fun activities for all ages.
October 26 – Monster Mug Workshop Sculpt your own spooky monster mug at Studio 212 in Maryville from 2 to 4 p.m. using handbuilding and sculpting techniques. Ages 10 and up are welcome with reservation required.
October 31 – Halloween Spooktacular Gather around Papa Pete’s Fire Pit at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro in Townsend from 5 to 9 p.m. for fireside storytelling and seasonal bites at this adults-only Halloween event. Tickets include one beverage and appetizers; dinner reservations are separate.
October 31 – Halloween Bash with Them Dirty Roses Rock out with Them Dirty Roses, Bones Owens and Johnny Mullenax at The Shed in Alcoa from 6 to 11 p.m. Enjoy BBQ, beverages and costume contests for kids and adults. Kids under 12 get in free. Rain or shine event.
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.
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