Many East Tennessee place names come from the Cherokee language, especially from the Overhill Cherokee—settlements along the Little Tennessee River that English traders in the 1700s reached by traveling “over the hills.” Some names remain nearly unchanged, while others were adapted by settlers. Here are a few examples located in and around the Peaceful Side.
Timberlake’s “Draught of the Cherokee Country.”
Kuwohi
In 2024, the U.S. Board on Geographic Names restored Kuwohias the official name for the Smokies’ highest peak—long called Clingmans Dome. The name has been translated by Cherokee speakers as “mulberry place,” though the precise meaning is debated.
Kuwohi was a site of ceremony for Cherokee medicine people, and its renaming came through a partnership between the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the National Park Service. Each year, the park closes Kuwohi to the public for three days to give Cherokee students the opportunity to learn about its history.
Cades Cove and Abrams Falls
Cades Cove was once a seasonal Cherokee hunting ground. Its Cherokee name, Tsiyahi, means “place of the otter.” The cove’s current name is believed to honor a leader remembered as Chief Kade. Nearby Abrams Creek and Abrams Falls are named for Oskuah, a Cherokee leader later called Abram (or Abraham) by settlers.
Chilhowee and Tallassee
Two major Overhill Cherokee towns—Chilhowee and Tallassee—once stood along the Little Tennessee River. Their sites were inundated by the construction of Chilhowee Dam in 1957. However, the names remain on the map: Chilhowee Mountain is a local landmark, and the unincorporated community of Tallassee lies just downstream along U.S. 129.
Tuckaleechee
Modern-day Townsend lies within Tuckaleechee Cove, named from the Cherokee word Tikwalitsi. The original meaning has been lost, though many affectionately interpret it as “Peaceful Valley.” Tuckaleechee Caverns, the largest cave system in East Tennessee, carries the name today.
Tellico
South of Blount County, Tellico Plains preserves the name of the Cherokee town of Great Tellico. Located at the junction of the Trading Path and the Warrior Path, Great Tellico was one of the most important Cherokee towns of the late 18th century.
Tanasi
Along the Little Tennessee River in what is now Monroe County stood the Cherokee town of Tanasi. Early colonial maps recorded its name, which was later carried to the Tennessee River and eventually to the state itself.
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.
Ask travel experts and they’ll tell you that “spring break” is a season that can start as early as late in February and run into the middle of April. Typically, March is the peak of the season, and while it is often seen as a time of crazy parties for college kids, a lot of families book getaways while kids enjoy a short holiday from the regular school schedule. Lasting around a week, it is the perfect amount of time to visit a place of natural beauty. If you are considering a spring break vacation this year, you would be hard pressed to find something as ideal as the “Peaceful Side” of the Smokies. Why a Visit to the Smokies is Ideal in Spring If you are not sure just where in the Smokies, we suggest you opt for the “Peaceful Side” in the area around Blount County. Why? Well, here are 5 very good reasons to do so:
Fewer People – If you have never visited the Smokies, you may not know that it is an area that sees millions of visitors, and the peak of travel is in the summer season. This means that roads, restaurants, shops and even accommodations can be quite full, and if you are eager to really savor your time in places like the National Park, you’ll see a lot of fellow travelers. The spring is also popular, but there are markedly fewer visitors, and this can allow you to experience a sense of having many places all to yourself! Plus, as its name indicates, the Peaceful Side is less crowded and more peaceful than other areas in the Smokies like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Nature – There is little that can compare to the beauty of the Smoky Mountain area during the spring months. All of the different colors of green that spring to life from the trees and plants combine with the first blossoms and blooms, the return of migratory birds and the gentle babble of the streams (and even the waterfalls) to make an unforgettable experience.
Outdoor experiences and attractions – The return of the warmer weather (daytime highs never reach 80 and night time lows average around 40) means that you can bike, hike, walk, jog, ride your motorcycle, book time at one of the canopy tours, take a brisk ride down the Little River or another body of water, and generally enjoy all of the summer activities with fewer lines and crowds.
Budget friendliness – It makes good sense to travel outside of the peak season anywhere in the world, and this applies to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, too. Traveling in the spring means you don’t pay the higher seasonal rates, saving money and yet giving you access to exactly the same activities.
The Cabins and accommodations – One of the most unique things about a visit to the region is the abundance of mountain cabins available to rent. Many are little destinations all on their own with everything from fireplaces to outdoor hot tubs. A spring break at one of these cabins could become your newest and most favorite way to celebrate the arrival of the season.
Whether traveling on your own, with a sweetheart or the whole family, you’ll want to give serious consideration to a visit to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies and its many appealing activities, beautiful scenery, great restaurants and excellent accommodations.
For courting couples, Sunday was another chance to see each other.
Large households shaped the logistics of dating. Families of 10 to 12 children weren’t unusual, and privacy was limited in one- and two-room cabins. That pushed conversations outside, on porches and in yards.
One interpretive guide for the Cove published by the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont points visitors to a porch bench near Cable Mill used for “sparking,” an older term for courting.
The word also shows up in a recorded Cades Cove interview from the 1930s, where a speaker recalls older boys teasing children about “sparking,” and an adult stepping in to explain what it meant.
“This picture was taken at Maryville Tenn on Saturday afternoon of January 26, 1901… Next day, Sunday, Nancy Ann and I rode horseback… to Cades Cove a distance of 20 miles… We were 22 years old and not married. We were married Sept. 4, 1901.” —John W. Oliver
Oliver (1878–1966) is the author of the Fifty Years in Cades Cove memoirs, a handwritten account of the valley’s families and daily life from early settlement through the early 1900s.Photo courtesy of University of Tennessee, Knoxville. “Fifty Years in Cades Cove Collection.” John W. Oliver and wife, Nancy Ann (Maryville, 1901).
Sparking often moved toward marriage. In much of Southern Appalachia, weddings were informal during this era, staged in either the bride’s or groom’s home.
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.
The Peaceful Side of the Smokies is a renowned cycling destination. Over the past 30 years, the local Tour de Blount has attracted thousands of cyclists from across the nation. With scenic mountain roads and quiet countryside rides, discover why so many visitors love cycling on the Peaceful Side.
Maryville and Alcoa
The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway features over 18 miles of trails running alongside Pistol Creek and through scenic parks throughout Maryville and Alcoa. Bikes are also allowed in designated areas within Maryville College’s 140-acre woods.
Cycology Bicycles, a family-owned business in Maryville, sells a variety of bikes, apparel and accessories. Their experienced staff can assist you with all your cycling needs.
They host free intermediate group rides every Tuesday and Thursday, covering 35 to 45 miles at a 15 to 17-mph average pace. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, rides start at 8:30 a.m., then shift to 10 a.m. after the holiday. On Greenway Sundays, which run from April to October, a shorter ride departs from Pearsons Springs at 4 p.m. and turns around at Clayton Homes.
The Cycology Women’s Rides Series (CWRS), now in its 12th year, offers a women’s cycling program from April through October. It caters to all levels with four no-drop pace groups.
Maryville Bike & Trail, named the Best Bicycle Shop by The Daily Times in 2023, offers a variety of bike sales and rentals.
They host beginner rides on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and intermediate rides on Thursdays at 6 p.m. The beginner rides are about 5 miles long, while the intermediate rides cover about 15 miles at a 10-mph average pace. Holiday social rides are advertised on their Facebook page.
Townsend
Vee Hollow, a 14-mile mountain bike trail network, is free to use and open year-round. It has four distinct zones for riding, ranging from easy to difficult, with a skills area, jump trails, mountain trails and more. Bikes are available for rent for up to three days.
Cades Cove Loop Road is motor vehicle-free on Wednesdays starting in June through September, allowing the perfect opportunity for cycling. The loop is 11 miles long, with historical buildings to check out along the way.
The Townsend Historical Trail spans 4.5 miles on both sides of US 321/Lamar Alexander Parkway, totaling 9 miles. The trail runs along Little River and features a 0.3-mile unpaved River Walk.
Walland offers routes such as Ellejoy Jaunt, a 20.5-mile loop starting at Coulter Bridge with scenic farmland and panoramic mountain views, and Old Walland Hwy, a 17.6-mile out-and-back paved ride. Cyclists should be mindful of motor vehicles on these roads.
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner, the Peaceful Side of the Smokies has a variety of trails and resources to ensure an enjoyable ride.
Interested in Tour de Blount? This event takes place every spring. You can learn more on their website.
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.
On the Peaceful Side, date night doesn’t have to be same ol’, same ol’. And it doesn’t just have to be for singles. Consider these ideas when you and your significant other want to spend quality time together.
Active Adventurers – Townsend
Start the morning off exploring Tuckaleechee Caverns, the highest-rated cavern of the Eastern United States. Along the 1.25-mile tour, there are millions of formations and a 210-foot waterfall to admire. At the end, you’ll experience total darkness in a room big enough to fit a football stadium.
Then, put on your water shoes and head to River Rat, the highest-rated Tubing Outpost in Tennessee. Outpost A, a calmer, two-hour route, features a private rock jump and swimming holes. Meanwhile, Outpost B offers an hour-long, heart-pumping adventure.
You can tube once, or you can go until closing with a Day Tubing Pass. Pro Tip: If you book a day or more in advance, you’ll receive a $5 discount per person.
If you’re not looking to spend money, consider hiking instead. These are a few of our top picks, ranging from easy to strenuous:
All of these hikes have rewarding scenery, ranging from waterfalls to panoramic mountain views. To beat the summer heat (and the crowd), start your trek earlier in the morning, and be sure to bring plenty of water.
Get an early start to the weekend at the Maryville Farmers’ Market, which operates on Saturday mornings from April to November. You can grab coffee, sweet treats, produce, flowers—whatever your heart’s desire.
If you’re looking for a weekday adventure with your sweetheart, embark on a 3.5-hour Cades Cove Heritage Tour. Enjoy a break from driving in a comfortable ADA-compliant bus, while experienced guides reveal the history of Cades Cove and point out wildlife.
Townsend has a variety of museums to explore any day of the week. Dive into East Tennessean history at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, where you and your loved one can experience live demonstrations and tour 17 preserved Appalachian structures.
Or head down the road to the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum, which preserves the heritage of what was once one of the largest commercial logging operations in southern Appalachia. This museum is free to visit, although donations are appreciated.
Retro Lovers – Maryville
Take a blast to the past at a drive-in movie. But first, you’ll want to get some snacks.
Start your evening off with sweet treats at the Capitol Theatre in Downtown Maryville. There are a variety of movie-themed sundaes, floats, candies and bottled drinks to choose from. The two of you can enjoy ice cream there and pick something else to take with you.
Then, take a short drive to Bigfoot Popcorn. There are unique flavors, like Bigfoot Poop and banana pudding, as well as traditional ones like cheddar and caramel.
Before dusk, make your way to the Parkway Drive-In off East Lamar Alexander Parkway. If you get there early enough, you’ll be able to pick a prime parking spot. You can stick around for both movies or call it a night after the first. Either way, it only costs $10 per adult.
Are you or your loved one planning a date on the Peaceful Side? We’d love to hear how it goes. Be sure to tag us on social media (@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.
From tree lightings and makers markets to concerts, fun runs and cozy workshops, December on the Peaceful Side is full of festive fun. Here’s a preview of what’s happening this month, with a late November event to kick things off.
Wrap up the downtown holiday market with the City of Maryville tree lighting at the Maryville Municipal Parking Garage on Broadway. The tree will be lit at approximately 5:30 p.m.
Celebrate the lighting of the City of Alcoa Christmas tree at the pedestrian bridge at the Springbrook Corporate Center in Alcoa at 6:15 p.m. Following the ceremony, enjoy special music, refreshments and a visit with Santa Claus.
The annual “A Maryville Christmas” concert begins at 7 p.m. in the Ronald and Lynda Nutt Theatre at the Clayton Center for the Arts. The evening features the Maryville College Concert Choir performing A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, sing-along selections with the Orchestra at Maryville College, the Maryville College Community Chorus, and chamber ensembles Off Kilter, Lads and Lassies sharing beloved holiday classics.
The Blount County Courthouse lawn in Downtown Maryville will be illuminated by live Christmas trees of all sizes, colors and themes, with the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. The opening celebration includes entertainment, refreshments and Santa Claus, and the trees remain on display throughout the month for visitors to walk through or drive by and enjoy.
Presented by the Blount County Arts & Crafts Guild, the Santa Mouse Christmas House fills Dotson Memorial Baptists Church in Maryville (814 Dotson Memorial Rd) with handmade arts and crafts. Shop unique gifts and decor from local artisans throughout this three-day holiday event.
Join Peaceful Side Brewery in Maryville from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for an evening of education and tasting. Learn about the history of farmhouse brewing and taste a curated selection of Belgian and American saisons, each paired with the story behind the brewery that created it.
Broadway Center for the Arts presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a heartwarming holiday tradition filled with laughter and the true meaning of Christmas. Performances are Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., featuring a talented cast from across East Tennessee.
H.O.M.E. (Hall-Oldfield-Maryville Empowerment) and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center in Alcoa partner for this annual community celebration to kick off the Christmas season, with the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Enjoy family fun and light refreshments at 209 E Franklin Street.
Head to Maryville College campus from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Maryville Makers Market Christmas Event. Browse more than 100 makers, and enjoy live music, demonstrations, kids’ activities and food vendors.
The Appalachian Ballet Company and the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra present The Nutcracker, bringing this beloved holiday classic to life at the Clayton Center for the Arts over two days. Act One features a glittering holiday party and snowy scene, while Act Two transports audiences to the Land of the Sweets with the Sugarplum Fairy, Cavalier and more.
The final leg of the Healthy Blount Triple Crown of Running features a 5K road race and 1-mile Fun Run/Walk from 2 to 4 p.m. Awards are given to Overall and Masters winners, the top three in each age division and the best male and female Christmas costumes. All Fun Run participants receive a keepsake, and a portion of proceeds benefits the Empty Pantry Fund.
Louisville Mercantile kicks off a week of holiday fun, running December 8-13. Each day features a new special, with a highlight Sip & Shop event on Thursday, December 11 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Children ages 3–6 in Blount County can receive a very special phone call from Santa Claus between 5 and 7 p.m. Thaks to volunteers from the Maryville-Alcoa Civitan Club, Santa will ring directly from the North Pole for this free program. The deadline to register is December 8.
Southern Grace Coffee Co. Hosts its annual Christmas Market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., packed with local vendors, hot coffee and cocoa, baked goods (including dairy-free and gluten-free options), boutique clothing, handcrafted decor and gifts.
Experience a taste of Appalachian Christmas traditions at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center’s Christmas in the Village festivities. Enjoy living history demonstrations, evening tours of historic structures and warm refreshments during select weekend evenings (12/5–12/6, 12/12–12/13 and 12/19–12/20) from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
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.
When strolling through Maryville, passersby may notice a large smoker on the side of the road near downtown. That smoker belongs to Full Service BBQ, a locally-owned outdoor barbecue joint nestled in the same lot on South Washington Street that’s been around since 2007. If you’re looking for the perfect meal to pick up on your way to Cades Cove, or just to stop and relax after a long day of driving, then look no further. From colorful chalk for the little ones to play with, to the corn hole sets and multiple HD TV screens, Full Service BBQ has something to entertain every member of your group.
The food is pretty legendary as well. We suggest stocking up on the delicious side items (we were still dreaming of Yo’ Mama’s Mac & Cheese days later) and, dare we say, the best sweet tea in Maryville! Whether your group is craving ribs, pulled pork or the unique Hawg Dawg (beer boiled hot dog topped with BBQ pork), the entire menu will keep you coming back for more. Oh, and don’t even think about skipping the banana pudding (if you’re too full, it packages nicely in a to-go container).
Full Service BBQ also offers family packs for up to 25 people, or catering services for larger groups. Check out their website here and then “like” them on Facebook to receive exclusive deals and keep up with their daily specials. Trust us, this is one local spot you won’t want to miss during your trip to The Peaceful Side!
Full Service BBQ is located at 113 South Washington Street, Maryville, TN 37804 and are open daily from 11am – 9pm. For more info, call them at (865) 981-4414.
The Smokies are home to wonders that feel magical—synchronous fireflies, a rainbow waterfall and bioluminescent mushrooms, to name a few. Take a walk on the Peaceful Side and discover fairy villages and a troll bridge nestled in the woods, where fairytales and reality meet.
Fairy Villages in The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum
The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum, nestled between the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway and the Little River, has several enchanting points of interest, including two fairy villages. Maintained by visiting children, these villages spark creativity and invite young imaginations to flourish.
The villages are part of the Children’s Discovery Garden, a lively space filled with activities like a mud pie kitchen, a seesaw, a wooden tent and a sandbox.
As you stroll along the trail, you’ll discover whimsical artwork by local artisans, including wood carvings of spirits and animals, as well as stones decorated with bird paintings. If you look closely, you’ll also spot a tree embracing a road sign and a cave tucked away in the woods.
This hidden gem is free to explore and wheelchair accessible at the north end. Visit the Townsend River Walk & Arboretum website for a preview of what’s in bloom throughout the year.
While many of the structures have been torn down, a few remain, including the “Troll Bridge”. Tucked away from regular foot traffic, this moss-covered stone bridge looks like something straight out of a fairytale.
To reach the Elkmont Troll Bridge, set off on the Little River Trail. About 100 feet in, you’ll see a small side trail that leads to the bridge. Just follow the stone walls, and you’ll soon reach your destination.
Have you found something magical on the Peaceful Side? Share your photos with us on social media (@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.
For most trips to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, a car is the easiest way to get between Townsend, Maryville, Walland and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
You can visit without renting a car in some cases. Downtown Maryville has walkable areas, and parts of Townsend are easy to explore on foot or by bike once you are there. Still, this is not a big-city destination with frequent public transit or guaranteed rideshare availability.
The closest airport to the Peaceful Side is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), located in Alcoa.
Ground transportation options at TYS include rental cars, rideshare, taxis, charter services and some hotel shuttles. The airport recommends making transportation reservations in advance.
TYS does not offer an off-property shuttle service. If you’re staying outside the airport area, especially in Townsend or Walland, arrange transportation before arrival.
Rental car counters are located on the lower level of the airport terminal near baggage claim. TYS lists Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Dollar and Payless as rental car options.
For most visitors, this is the most practical choice. A rental car gives you flexibility for everyday stops like getting to your lodging, picking up groceries, going out to eat and driving into the national park.
Rental car rates vary by date, vehicle type and availability. Reserve early for holidays, festivals, summer travel and peak fall color season.
Uber and Lyft operate at TYS. The rideshare pickup area is outside on the lower level of the terminal.
Rideshare can work well for airport transfers, especially to Maryville or Alcoa. For longer routes to Townsend or Walland, check availability in the app before relying on it. TYS notes that Uber and Lyft may not be available during off-peak hours, so it’s best to have a backup plan.
TYS lists taxi companies licensed to do business at the airport. The taxi pickup area is outside on the north side of the terminal and accessible from baggage claim.
A taxi can make sense for a short transfer, especially between the airport and Maryville. For longer routes to Townsend or Walland, call ahead to confirm availability, pricing, luggage space and return-trip options.
Private transportation may be a good option for weddings, retreats, group trips or resort stays. TYS maintains a current list of taxi and charter companies licensed to serve the airport, so check their transportation page before booking.
If you’re staying at Blackberry Farm or Blackberry Mountain in Walland, start with the property’s concierge team. They can help you understand your transfer options. If you plan to explore beyond the property, a rental car will give you the most flexibility.
Some nearby airport hotels offer shuttle service to and from TYS. Coordinate with your hotel in advance, especially if you’re arriving early in the morning or late at night.
Don’t assume a shuttle will take you to Townsend, Walland or Great Smoky Mountains National Park unless your hotel specifically confirms that service.
Getting Around Maryville
Maryville is the easiest Peaceful Side town to enjoy without a car, especially if you stay downtown or in Maryville’s new Greenway Village. From there, restaurants, shops and parks are all within walking distance.
That said, a car is still helpful for most trips, especially if you plan to visit nearby towns.
Getting Around Townsend
Townsend is more spread out, so most visitors will want a car. This is especially true if you plan to drive to Cades Cove, enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park or stay somewhere outside the main corridor.
Walking or biking can work well in the right location. The Townsend Historical Trail runs along both sides of US 321/Lamar Alexander Parkway for 4.5 miles each way, totaling 9 miles. If you stay near the trail, you may be able to reach nearby restaurants, shops and river outfitters without driving.
Getting Around Walland
Walland is more rural, so plan transportation before you arrive.
For resort stays, start with the property’s concierge team. For cabins, vacation rentals or plans that include restaurants, park visits or day trips, a rental car is usually the best option.
Getting Around Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not charge an entrance fee, but it does require a parking tag for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes. Daily, weekly and annual tags are available, and each tag is valid for a single vehicle.
If you’re renting a car, you may need to wait until you have the vehicle’s license plate number before buying your parking tag. Parking tags must be physically displayed in the vehicle, and purchasing one does not guarantee a parking spot.
Transportation matters most if you plan to visit Cades Cove. For most visitors, driving is the simplest option. If you do not want to drive the loop yourself, Cades Cove Heritage Tours through the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend offers guided public and private bus tours.
Cades Cove also has seasonal vehicle-free days when the loop is closed to motor vehicles and open to cyclists and pedestrians. Check the current National Park Service schedule before planning your ride. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are permitted, and all bikes must follow the posted speed limit.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots in Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a Maryville College graduate and writer for the Greater Smokies region. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.
From pool parties to scenic hikes, the Peaceful Side of the Smokies offers a variety of dog-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local resident or just vising the area, there are plenty of opportunities for your furry friend to play, socialize and enjoy the great outdoors.
Paws in the Pool – Springbrook Pool
The 3rd annual “Paws in the Pool” dog festival will take place at Springbrook Pool on Saturday, August 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The rain date is set for August 11 from 1 to 5 p.m.
Large dogs (over 40 lbs) check in at 8:30 a.m. and swim from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Small dogs check-in at 10:45 a.m. and swim from 11:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
Tickets cost $8 per pup on the day of the event, including swimming in the chlorinated pool, fun activities, on-site vendors, dog goodies and an event keepsake. Register by noon the Friday before the event for a discounted price of $5.
Dogs must be good swimmers or have their own life jacket to participate. You can learn more about the event on the Parks & Rec website.
Dog Parks on the Peaceful Side
The Petsafe Dog Park at Pistol Creek, nestled in Maryville’s Bicentennial Park, is open from dawn until dusk. It features a half-acre for small dogs, an acre for large dogs, a pavilion, benches, waste stations, dogs-only water fountains and an unleashing area.
Limited parking is available on McCammon Ave, or you can walk from the municipal lot or parking garage nearby on Harper Ave. Learn more about the park rules on the Parks & Rec website.
Louisville Dog Park, next to Henry Beal Park in Louisville, offers fenced-in areas for small and large dogs, including agility equipment, a dog water fountain, a digging pit and a hose to rinse your pup off. There’s also a lakeside loop trail nearby.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Dogs are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas and along roads in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park if they’re on a leash that doesn’t exceed six feet in length. Owners must clean up after their dogs immediately and should never leave them unattended in a vehicle or RV.
The Gatlinburg Trail is a convenient option near the Peaceful Side. About four miles roundtrip, this riverside stroll winds through a cove hardwood forest and features historic chimneys. You can learn more about the trail, including where to park, on the GSMNP website.
Service dogs are allowed anywhere in the park that visitors can go. You can learn more about service dog policies on the National Park Service website.
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.
Down a clandestine staircase and through a secret passage is a best-kept-secret, the Emerald Room, modeled after a speakeasy. One of several spaces within Maryville, Tennessee’s Capitol Theatre, this newest addition to the venue conjures images from the 1920s prohibition-era.
The Theatre, located on Maryville’s bustling Broadway Street in the historic downtown area, draws both local residents and those from throughout the region and country.
The venue goes beyond just a theatre space and offers a unique and glamorous venue for wedding receptions and ceremonies, proms, birthdays and small business and corporate events and provides catering and DJ services.
Capitol Theatre Event Director Haley Schweitzer finds the space covers a wide variety of events. “We have old Hollywood style and vintage ambiance, but events range from traditional weddings and events to themed events like a 1920sparty,” said Schweitzer. “The space lends itself to many different styles and leaves guest smiling and with fun memories they’ll never forget.”
In addition to the theatre space and Emerald Room, the Capitol Theatre offers a balcony and a 1940s-themed Hollywood Lounge. It even has a coffee and ice cream shop, which is open throughout the week to the public.
The coffee and ice cream shop receives frequent foot traffic from those taking a coffee break during work and tourists visiting the Smoky Mountains and enjoying Maryville’s vibrant downtown.
“About 20 percent of our weddings are destination weddings coming from places like Chicago, Charlotte, Atlanta, and even as far away as Seattle,” said Schweitzer. “The uniqueness of the venue, and the beauty and peacefulness of the Smoky Mountains draws them here. The Downtown Maryville location of the coffee and ice cream shop brings foot traffic in, and some of these visitors like our venue so much they book it for their wedding.”
The venue also draws business travelers, with Maryville and the surrounding Blount County area being a prime destination for conferences and corporate events and retreats. A scenic escape, Maryville is 10 minutes from the McGhee Tyson Regional Airport and has access to major highways like I-40, with the larger city of Knoxville just 20 minutes away.
“The attendees at our corporate events have many hotels and accommodations to choose from,” said Schweitzer. “We’re close to the Airport Hilton, but also not far from scenic resorts like Dancing Bear Lodge.”
First built in 1934, the Capitol Theatre was originally a premier entertainment place. The largest of Maryville’s downtown theatres, it sat approximately 1,000 guests. It closed its doors in the 1970s and then housed a number of different businesses. In 2002, it was purchased by the current owner, artist Heath Claiborne, as his art gallery. In 2008, the building underwent a complete renovation aimed at restoring its former look and created an entertainment and event center with state-of-the-art audio and video equipment. Claiborne’s studio and gallery still resides at the Capitol Theatre where visitors can view and purchase his original artwork and reproductions.
The downtown area of Maryville has experienced a revitalization in recent years. Earlier this year, an initiative to renovate the downtown culiminated with the approval of the Tennessee Main Street designation in January. The designation will open up the city to receive training, resource support and grant opportunities that will assist in the downtown area’s revitalization and economic development efforts.
“We love downtown Maryville,” said Schweitzer.”It’s a great location for the Capitol Theatre. We have lot of great restaurants and retailers, and ample parking. We’re excited to be part of the downtown’s history.”
One of the best parts about traveling is the ability to eat and experience new dining options that you don’t have at home. Finding new kinds of cuisines or just a new way to arrange ingredients in a dish can really broaden your culinary horizons. A vacation to the Peaceful Side of the Smoky Mountains comes with plenty of gastric treats for your taste buds. In this list, you will find some of the amazing local restaurants that you can enjoy when you travel the East Tennessee area. Maryville Dining Options Anaba: Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in an Izakaya atmosphere. Seisuke Fukuoka, the head chef, is an expert in Japanese culinary delights. You will find sushi, hibachi, and traditional ramen dishes. Barley’s: Enjoy excellent food, plenty of beer options, and occasional live music. There are 70 different beers on tap and daily drink specials. They have a full menu that includes items like the Fried Pork Belly appetizer and the Salmon Grit Cakes. Dockside Grille: If you find yourself at the Tellico Marina, make sure you grab a meal at this great restaurant that offers light lunch options and grilled steaks. There is often live entertainment to round out the experience. Foothills Milling Co: If you are looking for up-scale fare, head to this farm to fork restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms and businesses. You can find interesting options for your taste buds including the Lamb Meatball appetizer and Tempura Lobster Tails. Townsend Dining Options Apple Valley Cafe: Attached to the Apple Valley Country Store, this is a popular spot in Townsend. You can get breakfast or lunch in this establishment, but no matter when you come, the World Famous Apple Pie should be part of your meal. Burger Master: This historic spot has been serving the residents and tourists for over fifty years. You can get classic fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches. However, the real reason for the visit will definitely be one of the ice-cream desserts! Little River BBQ: If you want good old fashioned BBQ, then Little River will be right up your alley. Choose from beef, pork, or chicken in your choice of sauce. You can even pick up a family pack to-go for a BBQ picnic. Richmont Inn: Those staying at the Richmont Inn are in for a treat! In addition to the classic breakfast (included in the price of your room), you will also get a complimentary candlelight dessert each evening at 8 pm. They sometimes offer a four-course fondue dinner as well. There are plenty of other dining options in on the Peaceful side too! In Alcoa, you will find the sophisticated Cooper’s, Hot Rod’s 50s Diner, and Shrimp Dock’s seafood. In Walland, there is Becky’s Grocery and Grille, the Snoring Bear Diner, and The Barn and Blackberry Farm. When traveling on the Peaceful Side, you can eat somewhere different for each meal and never have to repeat restaurants! You might want to get your foodie list together before you leave for your trip, you may not be able to decide once you arrive.
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