Beat the Summer Heat

On the Peaceful Side, a heat wave doesn’t have to mean cancelled plans. There’s plenty of ways to keep cool—inside, on the water and even underground. Here are our favorites for beating the summer heat. 

Savor a Frozen Treat 

The Capitol Theatre Ice Cream Parlor is a local favorite for cooling off with a cone in a vintage, small-town setting. It’s a great place to slow down and savor a sweet treat in the heart of the community. 

New spots like Andy’s Frozen Custard and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers have quickly become summer go-to’s. Andy’s is known for seasonal specials like the All-American Cherry Pie Concrete, available July 2–8, with real cherries and creamy vanilla custard. Freddy’s, and Culver’s of Alcoa, both offer classic frozen custard treats all season long. 

Go Spelunking 

Tuckaleechee Caverns is the perfect underground escape. The caverns feature massive stalagmites, clear streams and the Big Room, a space large enough to hold a football field. The steady 58-degree temperature makes this a refreshing way to spend a summer afternoon while exploring one of the Smokies’ natural wonders. 

Get Crafty 

Local art studios offer great ways to stay cool while making something new. Creative Spark Studio has a full lineup of summer art camps for kids, plus sewing and welding classes for all ages.  

At Townsend Art Center, July’s clay handbuilding workshops let you craft floral wreaths or decorative masks, with a follow-up class to complete your piece with a patina finish. Over at Gracehill Fine Art & Basketry, you can try out hands-on basketry and alcohol ink painting workshops.  

Go Tubing or Take a Dip 

Tubing with River Rat is a beloved summer tradition. Choose between two routes: a gentle and family-friendly one, and another with a few more rapids. Whichever you pick, it’s a relaxing, refreshing float that captures the easygoing spirit of the Peaceful Side. 

If swimming is more your style, head to the Townsend Wye. Just inside the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Wye offers shallow spots for wading, deeper pools for swimming and plenty of space to unwind along the water’s edge. 

Watch a Performance 

When it’s time to head indoors, the Clayton Center for the Arts hosts performances and cultural events all summer long. In late July, the Broadway Center for the Arts will present Frozen Jr. It doesn’t get much cooler than that. 

What’s your favorite way to stay cool on the Peaceful Side? Tag us on social media (@PeacefulSmokies) for a chance to be featured.