Category: Blog

‘Tis the Season for Christmas Shopping at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge

Posted on December 12, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Shopping

Whether you are someone who counts down the days to next Christmas beginning every December 26th or you are an authentic Grinch, it is impossible not to feel the holiday spirit when you visit the Incredible Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge. It is known as the “largest permanent Christmas retailer in the American South, and one of the largest in the United States.” And before you think you don’t really need to pay a visit to a holiday specialty store, consider that it offers “everything Christmas.”
From ornaments and premium artificial trees to lighting for indoors or out, it also makes musical recordings, gifts, décor of all kinds, collectibles and many other items available. And whether you lean towards the country style of décor or a totally modern look, they’ll have plenty to catch your eye. In fact, a quick look at the categories of products available makes it easy to see that it really can be your go-to destination for holiday shopping whether you visit in July or January.
Even more exciting is the fact that they operate within a unique E.L.F. Philosophy (Empowerment, Leadership and Fun). This is one in which the goal of every employee is to ensure that all guests have a shopping experience that “represents the spirit of Christmas, provided by highly trained, friendly, and caring employees.” Who on earth needs the mall when there are people, whoops “elves,” eager to ensure you have a positive day or two of shopping.
And if you are thinking that it all sounds great but you cannot lug your loot back home with you, think again. With items like full-sized Christmas trees and delicate ornaments as well as perishable items, they understand you may not have room in the car or wish to haul such things into an airport. That is why they have shipping available for any and all purchases. You can have flat rates for standard purchases and specialty rates for express, special locations, or oversized items, too.
If you think that you just won’t be able to walk into such a location and make good choices for your holiday decorating scheme, you may appreciate their decoration services. Available for homes and businesses, they pair you with one of the Incredible Christmas Place designers who listens to your preferences and then works with you to put together a customized holiday decorating scheme that can include everything from bows and ornaments to trees and lighting. They even have expert outdoor lighting teams to help you make flawless plans!
And if you want to enjoy a stay in the Incredible Christmas Place, you can book your room at the Inn at Christmas Place with year-round holiday décor, luxurious rooms and lots to enjoy on the premises.
Whether you want to enhance your holidays or get into the Christmas spirit come July, you will want to pay a visit to the Incredible Christmas Place when you visit Pigeon Forge and the Smokies.

19th Annual Taste of Blount

Posted on August 26, 2021 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Dining, Drinking, Events

It is no secret that the restaurant industry has taken a significant hit over the past year, and although this is Blount County’s 19th Annual Taste of Blount, this year is a little different. This year we need to come together and support our local restaurant industry more than ever. And what’s a more flavor-filled and exciting way to do that than attending this year’s Taste of Blount?

What is Taste of Blount?

Taste of Blount is a collection of savory food favorites from restaurants, caterers, food trucks, and gourmet grocers who offer samples to event attendees. In return, each ticket holder places a vote for their favorite “Culinary Excellence Awards,” including Best Appetizer, Best Sandwich, Best Beverage, Best Main Course, Best Dessert, Best Presentation, and Best Overall.

Who is Participating in the 19th Annual Taste of Blount?

A Spoonful of Sugar – Buttermilk Pie, Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Brownies
A&R Texa s BBQ – Baby Back Ribs, Brisket, and Texas Twinkies
Apple Valley Cafe – Chicken Salad Mini Croissants, Tony’s Townsend Brownies
Between the Slices – Salted Caramel Cheesecake, Almond Wedding Cake, Apple Crumble Pie
Clean Eatz Cafe – Bowl of Happiness, Energy Bites, Clean Crunch
Crafted Jolt – Caramel Frappe, Iced Mocha Cold Brew Latte, Sunshiner Lemonade, Ocean Breeze Italian Soda
DaddyO’s Filipino Food Truck – Filipino BBQ, Turon
Dunkin’ Donuts – Donuts, Munchkins, Coffee
Full Service BBQ – Pork, Chicken and Beef Sliders, Banana Pudding, Sweet Tea
It’s Not the Coffee – Ridin’ Shotgun Coffee
Joe’s Italian Cuisine – Lasagna, Chicken Parmesan
Little River Pub & Deli – Moonshine BBQ, Pork Nachos, Pimiento Cheese w/Pita Chips
McAlister’s Deli – Tea
Metz Culinary – Chicken Fajita, Shrimp Quesadilla, Churro Bites
Petro’s – The Petro, Hint of Orange Tea
Pistol Creek Eats – Brisket, Banana Pudding
“Pop” Korns – Assorted Gourmet Popcorn Flavors
Quick Fix Coffee – Brewed Favorites
REO Cheesewagon – Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Featuring Old Favorites and Unexpected Pairings
Richy Kreme Donuts – Braised Short Ribs, Myrtles Bakehouse Cookies, Donut Bread Pudding, Rosemary Lemonade
Rocky’s Jamaica Sunrise – Jerked Pulled Pork, Jerk Chicken, Rice & Beans, Mac ‘n Cheese
RT Lodge – Watermelon Salad, Pimento Cheese
Sadie’s BBQ – BBQ
Shaun & Sherrie’s Soul Food – Meatloaf, Mac ‘n Cheese, Green Beans, Mini Fried Apples Pies
Southern Grace Coffee Co. – Jam Bar, Pumpkin Muffin, Iced Chai Latte, Iced Butterbear Cold Brew Latte, Southern Blend Brewed Coffee, and Smoky Mountain Sunset
The Colonel’s Coffee Co. – The Colonel, Cafe ConBon, Raspberry-Chocolate Frappe, Nitro, Latte, Pear-Raspberry Green Tea
Walnut Kitchen – Charcuterie, Smore’s Cheesecake
Windy City Grille (Maryville) – Sandwiches
Windy City Grille on the Water (Friendsville) – Shrimp Tacos

Event Details

Who? – The Taste of Blount is hosted by the Blount County Chamber of Commerce.
Where? – Theater in the Park in Maryville, TN
When? – Thursday, September 9, 2021, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm
How? – Tickets are $25 (plus tax) for Chamber members and $30 (plus tax) for the public. All children, five years and under, get in free. Tickets can be purchased at the Chamber office (201 S. Washington St., Maryville, TN), on the Chamber website, or by phone at 865.983.2241. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event on a cash-only basis.

This year’s event will also include the ability to purchase cold brews and spirits, thanks to a partnership with Cherokee Distributing and members of the East Tennessee Distillers Guild, including Heath Clark, Old Forge, and Sugarlands & Co. Distilling.

Make sure to get your tickets ahead of time because this will be a sold-out event. We look forward to sharing some fantastic food and beverages with everyone next month!

Check out these posts for similar activities in Blount County:

Smoky Mountain Coffee Houses

Gourmet S’more Ideas

Eat Your Way Through the Peaceful Side at These Local Restaurants

5 Blount County Restaurants Perfect for a Romantic Valentine's Day Dinner

Posted on February 6, 2019 by dstech - Blog, Dining

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and this year you can get a jump start on the rest of the world by booking your romantic dinner out right away. After all, it is shocking how quickly the tables at the area’s most romantic spots fill up and waiting until a week or two ahead of Valentine’s Day often means you don’t get a reservation. Lucky for you, there are plenty of options for romantic dinners in Blount County.

If you are going for that sort of super-romantic evening out, we have five local Blount County restaurants that are ideal for a Valentine’s Day dinner for two.

The Barn at Blackberry Farm – If your goal is to impress and enjoy amazing and authentic local food, you will have a tough time matching the options at this Walland restaurant. Featuring expert chefs, bakers, and even a sommelier to help you pair your Foothills Cuisine with local wine, it is a dining adventure perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Dancing Bear Lodge – The bistro in this wonderful Townsend restaurant allows you to make reservations even if you are not staying at the lodge. Noted as one of the most romantic settings in the entire region, the bistro’s menu is a fantastic blend of local favorites with a new twist. Opt for local cheeses, innovative appetizers, local greens and vegetables, and classics that include an Appalachian Hot Pot, a blue cheese-encrusted pork chop, and more. Excellent wines and irresistible desserts make it perfect for a romantic night out.
Foothills Milling Company – Located in the heart of Maryville, this is a popular choice and reservations are required. In a charming and welcoming setting, you can take your choice from the ever-changing wine list and a menu that reflects the season. Your Valentine’s Day dinner for two could include everything from truffle fondue or crab soup to a warm cabbage salad, rack of lamb, salmon and more!
Sullivan’s – Another fine food establishment in Maryville, this features a tremendous menu of innovative dishes that includes everything from a steak, strawberry and blue cheese salad to classic “blue plates” and local favorites. An impossible to resist dessert menu and a low-key, almost casual atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a delicious evening out on Valentine’s Day.
Aubrey’s – Less romantic and more fun, this is a great spot if you are taking yourselves, and maybe even the kids out to celebrate this day that’s all about love. Enjoy selections from an excellent beer and wine menu. Remain in awe of the fantastic dinner menu with small plates, specialties and a great “Perfect Pairs” option. Rich desserts and even a kids’ menu ensures that an entire family can enjoy a Valentine’s Day dinner that is fun, tasty and relaxed. This is also a Maryville location.

Other options for a dinner out for two or even the family can include Calhoun’s, the Smoky Mountain Brewery, the Walnut Kitchen, Roland’s Bistro, Gondolier, and Lemon Grass, all in Maryville.

There are a lot of options, but you won’t want to wait much longer to book your table. Use the links here to choose your ideal spot on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, and whether it is a meal for two or the entire gang, you’re sure to enjoy your Valentine’s Day dining together.

5 Smoky Mountain Fall Hikes Suitable for the Whole Family

Posted on October 23, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Changing Fall Foliage in the Smokies dirt road

Finding hikes that can give you a great close-up look at Smoky Mountain fall colors and are also accessible to your youngest and oldest family members isn’t always easy, but there are actually quite a few. Here are some of our favorites!
The Laurel Falls Trail
Looking for a great all-around hike that offers the kind of sightseeing you’ll find only out in nature, a dirt trail under your feet, and a cool destination? The Laurel Falls hike is a 2.3 mile round-trip hike that begins at a parking lot near the top of Fighting Creek Gap. It is accessible to families with children, though everyone should stay close to the trail as it approaches the Falls (there are some steep drop-offs off-trail). The Falls themselves provide plenty of great photo opportunities, so bring your camera!
Clingmans Dome
Do your kids love when something is “the most?” Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smokies, and it’s accessible via a ½-mile-long paved trail. The trail can be managed with strollers, though all should be prepared that it can be quite steep and is generally too steep for wheelchairs. Hikers can look forward to an unbelievable panoramic view at the top; on a clear day, people can see nearly 100 miles in any direction. Pack a jacket – it can be up to 20 degrees cooler at the summit.
The Look Rock Tower Trail
Clingmans Dome is a lot of great things, but it isn’t dog-friendly. Luckily, dogs and their human companions don’t have to miss out on a great Smokies view, thanks to the Look Rock Tower Trail. The trail includes a view of Maryville and Alcoa, as well as the western side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dogs must be leashed, but the trail is paved and it’s just under a mile. A perfect first hike!
The Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a dog-friendly 1.9 mile trail through a forest near the Little Prong River, and features the remnants of former Tennessee frontier homes (notably their foundations and chimneys). The trail begins at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and is only one of two dog-friendly trails in the national park. Make sure to observe the rules requiring leash use in the park while on the trail.
The Abrams Falls Trailhead
If the youngest members of your family are in middle school or older, you may want to try a 5-mile hike (round trip) with a few rocks on the path, and the Abrams Falls Trailhead is a great place to start increasing your hiking challenges. There are even more challenging hikes at Abrams Falls, but the 5-mile hike begins at the trailhead exit at Cades Cove Loop Road. Everyone should pack some extra socks if they’re in sneakers (or wear hiking boots), bring a rain jacket or poncho, and watch out for slippery rocks by the falls.

5 Tips for Planning the Perfect Smoky Mountains Vacation

Posted on April 8, 2019 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

If you are craving a little time to commune with nature, there is no better place to scratch the itch than the Smoky Mountains. East Tennessee is a popular mountain destination because of the sheer beauty of the area. You can stay in a rustic cabin staring out across the peaks. It is the perfect way to leave the stress of the urban world behind.
While there is plenty of mountain vistas to enjoy, don’t think your trip to the Smokies will be boring! There is so much to do in the various towns dotting the area, you will never have a moment to be bored. You will find world-class dining options, adventure activities, museums, and even roller coasters. To help you create the perfect vacation, we have put together these five tips.

1. Rent a Cabin

While there are plenty of different types of accommodations available in the Smoky Mountains, one of the best ways to get the full experience is by renting a cabin. It will make you feel more at home in the mountains. Plus, it will come with an absolutely incredible view. You can find cabins to suit all sizes of groups from one to thirty, and you can get all the amenities that you desire. There are pet-friendly options for those with four-legged family members.

2. Don’t Think Gatlinburg is All There Is

Some people make the mistake of thinking the only destination in the Smokies is Gatlinburg. While the town is lovely and full of things to do, there is more to the Smoky Mountains than G-Town. Make sure you check out some of the other amazing spots in the area including Maryville, Townsend, Rockford, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Cades Cove. You will find that each spot has its own unique flavor to add to your trip.

3. Make Time for Dollywood

You don’t want to miss a chance to visit this world-class theme park. There are plenty of rides for the thrill seekers including roller coasters and water slides. Plus, there are amazing live performances featuring Appalachian style music, among others. The artisans will demonstrate things like glass-blowing and blacksmithing. Plus, you can catch one of the fantastic dinner shows. Make sure you take a ride on the Lightning Rod. It is the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster.

4. Go to the Park

No matter where you are staying in East Tennessee, you need to plan to spend some time in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. There is no admission fee to get into the park, and there are plenty of things to do. You can hike, bicycle, check out waterfalls, camp, and look for wildlife. Keep your eyes open, and you may see a black bear or two, but no matter what, you are guaranteed to see the beauty of nature. Wildflowers bloom the majority of the year, and the gorgeous mountain scenery is worthy of a million Instagram pictures.

5. Check Out a Festival

When picking your vacation dates, make sure to check for festivals! There are plenty of weekends per year where you will find a fun festival to attend. You never know what you might get to experience. Hot air balloons, bluegrass, craft beer, and Scottish games are just a few of the festivals that happen in the Great Smoky Mountains.
As you can see, there is plenty to see and do. What are you waiting for? Get to planning!

A Great Way to Travel: See the Smokies on Horseback

Posted on August 6, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog

One of the great things about being on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies is just how much the animals appreciate the peace and quiet, too. That’s one reason there are so many great stables and outfitters that can get you riding in Blount County: horses like it here. Check out the different options and start planning your next ride!

Next to Heaven Mountain Adventures

The only unguided horseback ride in the Smokies begins when you’re matched with a horse great for you, and continues up an hour-long trail into the Smoky mountain woods. Don’t worry about getting lost; the horses know the way! Ziplining through the trees is also available.

Cades Cove Riding Stables

Cades Cove Riding Stables offers the only national-park-authorized stables in Blount. They offer guided trail rides in Cades Cove, as well as private guided carriage rides and guided hayrides for large groups. All levels of riders are welcome!

Davy Crockett Riding Stables

Townsend, Tennessee’s Davy Crockett Riding Stables offers rides to people of all ages, and also includes half-day rides that take you off the beaten path into the Tennessee wilderness. Not a bad way to become King of the Wild Frontier!

Rolling Hills Farm Equestrian Center

If you’re looking for serious riding lessons, Rolling Hills Farm is one great place to look. The riding school offers instruction in the basics of equestrianism, like Western and English riding, horsemanship, and showmanship. Horse day camps and birthday parties are also available.

Twin Valley Horse Ranch

Twin Valley Horse Ranch is actually Twin Valley Horse Ranch and Bed & Breakfast. Those just visiting for the day can choose half-day or full-day rides on their private mountain trails, and if you’re staying overnight, you’ve got a choice between upscale Lodge and Ranch house rooms, a private cabin, or rustic outdoor shelters. Bringing your own horse? No problem. Even visiting horses can bunk down in the stables at Twin Valley!

Mountain Meadow Equestrian Center

Maryville’s Mountain Meadow Equestrian Center offers a little bit of everything. Day camps, riding instruction, trail rides for riding students, a 4-H club, boarding for horses, and a 24-hour on-site manager. If you’re looking to get more instruction on everything from trail riding to showjumping and 3-day eventing, Mountain Meadow is a great choice.

Don’t Hold Your Horses — Ride While You Can!

The horses may be ready to go any day of the year, but the weather won’t always cooperate. Don’t be afraid to check out the stables you’re interested in and book a trail ride or a riding lesson on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies today.

A Stop for the Brave of Heart: Dark Island Swinging Bridge

Posted on June 20, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog

If you like to seek out the more unusual places to visit — the stranger sights to see — then you need to check out the Dark Island Swinging Bridge in Townsend, TN. While you are spending time in the area, you have to take a few minutes out of your day to discover this amazing bridge and if you are brave enough to walk out on it, you can look down into the beautiful Little River. However, one thing you should know is that you can only go on one end of the bridge. The other end leads out onto private property.
Finding the Dark Island Swinging Bridge
Any of the locals here in Townsend can tell you how to get to the Dark Island Swinging Bridge; it sits right behind the Little River Railroad and Lumber Museum. Since it is such a popular place for tourists to stop, there is a small parking lot. The bridge itself is strong enough to hold four adults at a time as long as everyone doesn’t do a lot of bouncing around.
Keep in mind the bridge is old and made of wood, so you should be careful as you walk out on it. Don’t worry, it’s not likely to fall into the river as it is well maintained. The views from the bridge up and down the river are spectacular. Be sure to bring your camera, because there are several great photo opportunities you must take advantage of.
One of the Last Public Access Swinging Bridges
The Dark Island Swinging Bridge is one of the last swinging bridges in the area that is still open to the public. It’s a great place to bring your family for some really cool photos or for a stop on your school’s next field trip. You don’t have to stay long, it only takes a few minutes to see all there is to see here, but you will find the stop more than worthwhile.
Looking for a stellar spot to exchange wedding vows? Why not have your entire wedding party standing by as the two of you and the person officiating your wedding stand in the middle of the bridge. Talk about a unique spot to get married, and the photo opportunities are not to be believed.
The Dark Island Swinging Bridge is only one of the many places to visit during your stay in Townsend. Many people come here to spend as much time as possible in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and, to be sure, there is so much to see there. But when you want a quiet spot to take a break and maybe a few pictures of your family for the memories, be sure you take a little time out of your day to stop in at the bridge.
You might have to spend a few minutes waiting for your turn to walk out on it, but this is a great time to get to know someone new (those in line with you). The Dark Island Swinging Bridge may be one of the best kept secrets in the area, but the locals will always be happy to help you find it.

Add Bicycling in the Smokies to Your Bucket List This Fall

Posted on October 17, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

Fall is the perfect time for you and your family to bring your bikes to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. There is a vast selection of cyclist-friendly roads and bike trails that range in difficulty from family-friendly to those just for the experts. They range in distance from under a mile up to many miles long. If you are looking for something you can add to your bucket list and mark it complete, biking the Smokies is a great choice.
In the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Keep in mind that bicycling inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is very limited. You can ride on any paved road, (the only exception is the Roaring Fork Motor Trail), and on three trails. These trails include the Oconaluftee River Trail, the Lower Deep Creek Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail. All other trails and the backcountry are off limits to any type of bicycle or motorized off-road vehicle. Again, you can cycle on the paved roads, but the amount of vehicular traffic can make this a less-than-pleasant experience.
This being said, from the first part of May to the last part of September, the park closes the Cades Cove Loop to vehicular traffic on Wednesdays and Saturdays from sunup until 10:00 a.m. The loop runs for 11 miles and can be completed in less than 2 hours by most people. Along the way, you might see numerous members of the local native inhabitants (fox, deer, rabbits, numerous birds…Oh! And maybe even a bear). The road does have a few steep grades to deal with, but there are cross-trails you can use to cut the ride short if you are getting tired.
Bike Ride for the Whole Family
If you have younger children in your family, the Gatlinburg Trail in the Park could be just the trail to match their skill levels. The trail is one of the two trails in the park that allow bicycle traffic. The trail starts at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and runs for two miles until you reach the outer edge of Gatlinburg. One reason this is a good trail for kids is that it is flat. Unlike many of the trails in the area outside of the park that include steep climbs and drops, this one is quite level all the way into town.
The other trail in the park, the Oconaluftee Trail, is only 1.5 miles long. The trail runs along the Oconaluftee River. The trailhead starts at the Oconaluftee Visitor center and drops into Cherokee, NC. The trail offers superb views as it passes through the forest on your way into town. Like the Gatlinburg Trail, this one is open to joggers, hikers, pets, and of course, cyclists, so it tends to become crowded later in the day. If you want to cycle in more complete peace and quiet, you need to get here early and get out ahead of the crowd.
This is only a small sampling of why bringing your bikes to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies this fall can be so much fun. The fall foliage is breathtaking, the trails are family-friendly, and the weather is perfect for taking those longer rides. Bring your family and your bikes out to our neck of the woods this fall; we promise you won’t be sorry.

An Afternoon Chocolate Break at Townsend's Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe

Posted on June 4, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Dining, Townsend

Everyone knows what 3 PM feels like, that particular circumstance when it’s too early for dinner, but you’ve been busy sightseeing and shopping since lunch and are ready for a break. You feel a little tired, a little listless…you really could use a break, after all.
Plenty of breaks are designed to be as quick as possible – maybe a trip to the vending machines, or a quick snack from a gas station. Some days this just doesn’t feel right, though. There has to be a little more enjoyment in those few moments we have with ourselves and our nearest and dearest, doesn’t there – especially when you’re on vacation? A chance to step away from what you’re doing and treat yourself could be just the thing to get you back on track.

Head to the Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe!

The Little River Village Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe, at 8521 E Lamar Alexander Parkway in Townsend, Tennessee, is a hidden gem in the Smokies region. It has a little something for everyone, with delicious fudge, ice cream, and other sweets, as well as souvenirs like T-shirts and bear-themed items, like bear backpacks. The goodies are fresh, and the service is friendly. Oh, yeah, and about that fudge itself?

The Fudge is Incredible

Something pretty great is coming out of the kitchen at the Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe: fudge! OK, no surprise there – but what will surprise you is just how good this fudge is, and how many different flavors there are. With over a dozen varieties available, including creative flavors like Jelly Donut, Better than Butterfinger, Pumpkin, and Carrot Cake, plus stalwarts of the fudge trade, like Peanut Butter and Maple Nut, there’s sure to be one that’s a perfect match for your taste buds. You don’t even have to buy to try; they offer free samples.

There’s Amazing Ice Cream, Too

The Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe serves hefty scoops of Blue Bell ice cream, known for its mastery of classic flavors like rocky road, Dutch chocolate, mint chocolate chip, strawberry, and chocolate chip cookie dough, as well as southern favorites like banana pudding and buttered pecan. They’ll even dip your cone in chocolate for you! There’s nothing like sitting down with a few good scoops piled on top of a cone in the middle of a summer afternoon, is there?

Why Not Stop By Today?

Every lifetime comes with a few regrets, but squeezing in a few moments with friends and family, sharing delicious treats made with care, is never one of them. The Little River Village Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe closes in the winter, so don’t wait for the perfect opportunity to treat yourself. Make a few moments perfect with handcrafted fudge, and enjoy some of the best flavors in the Smokies while you can!

Antique Buffs Will Love Exploring the Many Antique Stores in Blount County

Posted on August 28, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Shopping

Wandering through an antique store is a little like having a time machine that lets you visit different eras in the history of the area you happen to be visiting. Like many areas on the eastern side of the country, Blount County has a long and storied history, and it can be seen as you wander through the many antique stores in the county.
More Than Just Local Fare
While some of the antique stores in Blount County stick to local antiques, in others you will find treasures and trinkets from around the world. From gifts for your friends and family to heirloom treasures destined to be passed down through many generations of your family, you can find these and more as you shop. Here are four of the top antique stores in Blount County that are well worth taking the time to check out while you are in the area.
The Druid Hills Antique Mall
Located at 2726 Druid Hills Dr, in Maryville, TN, the Druid Hills Antique Mall has a little bit of everything for just about anyone. Looking for that original vinyl copy of Led Zeppelin II or maybe some old Hank Williams records? You might discover what you are looking for and more. From old tools, vintage clothing, to furniture and trinkets, you never know what you might find roaming throughout the mall. Virtually every inch of the floors, walls, shelves, and even the ceiling seem to be covered in a cornucopia of antiques and bric-a-brac for you to browse.
Rivermill Antiques Etc.
If you find yourself in Walland, you simply must stop in Rivermill Antiques, Etc. on E. Lamar Alexander Parkway. Far more than just another antique store, you can find just about anything imaginable here. They have glassware, pottery, both antique and quality used furniture, décor items, collectibles, and so much more throughout the shop. Not only do they sell antiques and other items here, but they also offer to sell items on consignment, rent out spaces for you to sell your items in, and are always interested in buying antiques to put on sale in the store.
The Shoppes at Homespun
The Shoppes at Homespun is located behind Blount Memorial Hospital in the Old Cherokee Lumber Co. building in Maryville. Stepping inside the doors is like taking a step back in history. The Shoppes offers a fantastic selection of primitives, vintage items, period and boutique clothing, and a wide variety of creative décor items. Through the doors, you will find aisle after aisle of booths selling an incredible range of items that are continually changing.
Hoo La La Vintage Market
Over at Foothills Plaza in Maryville, you should step into Hoo La La, where you will find an antique store with a focus on items that fit into many categories, including used, antique, arts & crafts, and items on consignment sale. Hoo La La also offers a selection of elegant distressed furniture finished onsite. You can hear the team working on their next project in the backroom while you wander around the front of the store.
These are only a small sampling of the many antique stores to be found throughout Blount County. There are so many of them to choose from that it can take several days to visit them all. Be sure to take your time and check them all out; you might be surprised at what you find!

Appalachian Love Spells

Posted on February 14, 2021 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Valentine’s Day is here, so what better time to give you a little history of Appalachian Folk Magic? Who hasn’t wished they could conjure up a couple of love spells this time of year? Well, luckily for you, many of our Appalachian ancestors didn’t have the mainstream disdain for a little practical magic.

History

Appalachian Folk Magic, sometimes referred to as Granny Magic, dates back to the 1700s when many Scotts and Irish immigrants settled into our wise old Appalachian mountains. When these two old-world traditions blended with existing Cherokee traditions, a new recipe of magic was born. Folk magic evolved to let mountain people utilize the earth’s energy for healing when doctors weren’t available, and justice was necessary to maintain a peaceful community.

Practical Magic

Granny Magic, like many of the older magical practices, were passed on within families through generations. Because of the rural and secluded nature of the mountains, Appalachian families relied on Mother Nature in a way unfamiliar to most city folk. The fertility of crops, the weather, livestock, and even hunting conditions drew on various polytheism deities’ faith, as well as monolithic religions (even Christianity). Witchcraft was not the taboo it became in urban regions.
Our ancestors often reached out to Witch Doctors for all variety of healing, Water Witches who doused for water or energy vortexes, Power Doctors who worked magic through breath, or Goomer Doctors who could remove hexes. With that said, we offer a couple of love spells to make your Valentine’s Day one to be remembered.

Although, according to Byron Ballard, from www.myvillagewitch.com, she refuses to do love spells. “The problem is that they work. And sometimes the person asking for the spell ends up not being as interested as they thought they were, or they draw a person to them in an unhealthy way, such as stalking.”
But for the brave, or possibly irresponsible, we’ve tracked down a couple of Appalacian love spells and charms for you to try. NOTE: we do not recommend any illegal activities to obtain materials for this spell and are not responsible for any magical outcome.

Love Spells and Charms

Collect a handful of violet buds, think romantic thoughts, and then toss them in front of you. Look at the patterns they form on the ground. They should suggest a name or the initials of your future mate. If you get better results with white blossoms, then your mate will always be faithful. If you get better results with purple blossoms, your marriage will be passionate.
Tossing myrtle into a fire is said to cause the face of your future mate to appear.
A white dove flying over your house is an omen that there will be a marriage in your family within a year.
For love, take a pair of scissors and inscribe your name on the inside of one blade and his name on the inside of the other, then bury the scissors.

We hope you have a memorable Valentine’s Day this year, but be sure to act with caution when reading or influencing your fate. Maybe consider a bouquet of roses instead.

For other Valentine ideas in the Smoky Mountains, check out these posts:

Valentine’s Day in the Smoky Mountains: The Most Romantic Restaurants in Blount County

Visiting the Smokies with Your Sweetheart? Snuggle Up for a Carriage Ride through Cades Cove

Beat the Heat with an Ice Cream Treat; Check Out Blount County's Ice Cream Shops

Posted on August 1, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Dining

Summers in Blount County are long and hot, and there’s no better way to take a break from the heat than to step on out and treat yourself to something cold and frosty. There are plenty of places to choose from in Blount County; here are a few worth checking out!
Scoops & Slices
Alcoa’s Scoops & Slices is a must-visit for fans of pizza and ice cream. Besides classic pizza combinations, they offer a dessert pizza (which is a chocolate peanut butter pie) and all the ice cream sundae, shake, and soft serve combinations that you would expect from a restaurant committed to longtime favorites and good fun.
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in Maryville offers a big menu of ice cream treats every day – around 40 flavors! They actually make around 150 flavors all together, and one of the company’s signature features is how Bruster’s handcrafts each flavor in the store. Instead of making everything at a central location, Bruster’s ships the cream and other basic ingredients to their locations, where the ice cream is mixed and made locally.
Little River Village Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe
The Little River Village Fudge Kitchen and Sweet Shoppe is serving up more than just fudge – they’ve got large scoops of Blue Bell ice cream on offer, too. Customers can choose from classics like Rocky Road or new favorites like banana pudding, and chocolate-dipped cones are also available. Check them out in Townsend!
Capitol Coffee & Ice Cream Parlor
This treat stop located at the Capitol Theatre in Maryville offers gourmet coffee and blended drinks, as well as ice cream delicacies. Everything on the menu has its own old-timey cinema theme, with beverages like the Here’s Lookin’ at You Kid, an espresso drink with caramel and macadamia nut, and sundaes like the The Midnight Showing, which features chocolate ice cream with Ghirardelli dark chocolate, dark chocolate chips, whipped cream and a Ghirardelli chocolate square. Now that’s some movie magic!
Maryville’s Dairy Queen
Sometimes there’s nothing like an American classic. Dairy Queen was founded in 1940 in Joliet, Illinois, and it’s been spreading cheer across America ever since. The Grill & Chill location on West Broadway in Maryville offers everyone’s favorites, from Dilly Bars to Peanut Buster Parfaits, and it also keeps up with the latest DQ trends nationwide.
Now that you’ve gotten to know a few of the local joints a little better, why not plan your next visit to one of Blount’s hot spots for sweet treats?