Category: Maryville

Beat the Summer Heat with a Refreshing Treat at Bruster's Real Ice Cream

Posted on July 25, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Dining, Maryville

Some summer days are just too much to handle. It’s too hot for anyone to be comfortable, the humidity is heavy, and it seems like the sun is never going to give in and retreat behind the clouds. There’s only one thing to do with weather like this: grin and bear it.
How on earth, though, are you supposed to come up with a reason to grin? When excessive heat and the suffering it brings seems never-ending, what do you have to smile about?

Luckily, There’s One Thing That’s Better in the Heat

Ice cream was made for days like this, and Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in Maryville has dozens of flavors!
They’ve got classics like rocky road and strawberry, as well as new flavors, like “Pucker Up,” which is lemon ice cream with blue raspberry and sour cherry ribbons, plus Nerds candy, and “Cotton Candy Explosion” a cotton-candy-flavored ice cream with popping candy, so there’s plenty to choose from at Bruster’s.
In fact, Bruster’s recipe book contains about 150 different flavors, and there are around 40 flavors to pick from daily. This wide variety is possible because of the way Bruster’s ice cream is made, which is also one of the company’s hallmarks. Basic ingredients are delivered to each Bruster’s shop, and the ice cream is handcrafted right there in the store. It never sees the inside of a deep freezer, which is why it has such a rich taste. It also has a short shelf life, but it always disappears before that becomes an issue!

More Than Just Ice Cream Cones

There’s more to choose from at Bruster’s than just a couple scoops in a cone. Bruster’s also offers sundaes and splits, both available in either a waffle cone bowl or a regular bowl. Love banana splits? Every Thursday at Bruster’s is Banana Thursday, where customers can bring their own banana and get ½ off the price of a banana split. Other treats include blasts – soft serve with mix-ins like Oreos and Reese’s Pieces – milkshakes, freezes made with sherbet or Italian ice, and ice cream sodas and floats. Even your dog can join the fun! Bruster’s offers free “doggie sundaes” every day they are open.
Looking for something to suit a crowd? Bruster’s will hand-pack pints, quarts, and half gallons of their ice cream for you to take away, and they also offer pies and ice cream cakes. Ice cream cakes are available for pickup anytime, but they can be easily custom ordered with different flavors of cake and ice cream, as can the pies. Both are iced with Bruster’s vanilla ice cream, so there’s more than enough good feeling to go around.

Where to Find Ice Cream in Maryville

Bruster’s is located on 1400 W. Broadway in Maryville, Tennessee, and is open from 11 AM to 11 PM, 7 days a week. Next time the heat gets to be too much, you know where to go!

Beer Lovers Unite at Maryville – Hops in the Hills

Posted on June 19, 2023 by Rachel Coffman - Activities, Blog, Drinking, Events, Maryville

Warm summer nights, good music, friendly conversation, and local craft beer – what else could you ask for from an evening in the East Tennessee Mountains? Our Hops in the Hills brew festival isn’t just another regional beer fest; it’s an event planned with both patron and brewer experience in mind.

Only 1000 tickets are sold for this Hops in the Hills event, keeping lines short and allowing brewers to discuss brewing processes and product distinctions with an engaged crowd. And don’t worry about spending additional money on top of your ticket price because each ticket also gets you tastings, food, an official event t-shirt, and great live music.

Are you an IPA guy or a Porter gal? Have you always wondered how a grapefruit Saison tastes? Spend the evening sampling a wide variety of drafts from 30 of the most well-known breweries in the region. Past partners include Yeehaw Brewing Company, Blackberry Farm Brewery, Black Horse Brewing Company, and Fanatic Brewing Company.

Calfkiller Brewing Company at Hops in the Hills

For those of you with a competitive streak, we offer games like life-size beer pong and Jenga, or you can challenge your friends to a neighborly game of cornhole. Located in the Maryville Greenway Amphitheater, this Celebration of Fermentation is a great way to dive into summer and experience the joys of craft beer.

“Hops in the Hills is a great way for people to join the community and experience the Smoky Mountains and Maryville’s vibrant, historic downtown and thriving craft beer scene,” says Blount Partnership Tourism Director Kim Mitchell. “It’s always a highly-anticipated event.”

Join us from 5:00 – 9:00 pm on Saturday, June 24th, 2023, for a tasting experience you won’t forget! Tickets can be purchased online at www.hopsinthehills.com for $65 per person or $40 per designated driver, which will include everything but the beer.

Don’t just come for the evening; join us for the whole weekend. Friday night, start your experience with our Hops in the Hills Craft Brew Crawl, provided by Knox Brew Tours. Purchase tickets for $15 per person. The night will begin at The Casual Pint – Maryville (this is where you will get on the bus, receive your wristband and Brew Crawl Official Cup), and buses will run continuously throughout the night, from 6:00 – 10:00 pm, allowing you to stay as long as you like at each stop. Stops will include Casual Pint – Maryville, Brackins Blues Club, Two Doors Down, Tri-Hop Brewery, and Blackberry Farms Brewery.

Tap Pour From Hops in the Hills Craft Beer Festival

As part of the weekend-long Summer on the Broadway celebration, Hops joins other exciting festivities such as a sanctioned BBQ Cookoff, Farmer’s Market and Craft Fair, Car Show, Dock Dogs, Kid’s Zone, and the Headphone Silent Disco. Dance the night away with your own headphone set, choosing from two different DJs to find your favorite genre.

So, whether you want to start your adventure with a hike, see the area on horseback, or take a refreshing float down the river, we have it in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Local accommodations are ready to welcome you with southern hospitality and charm, so get your tickets and book your rooms today!

Beautiful Moss Covered Antique Stone Bridge Near the Little River The Great Smokies Mountains National Park

For more events like these, check out the following posts:

Smoky Mountain Coffee Houses

Grains & Grits Festival: Townsend’s Annual Outdoor Event

Bringing Your Dog to Tennessee? Introduce Him to New Friends at PetSafe Dog Park in Maryville

Posted on July 2, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Maryville

Love traveling with your dog? You’re not alone! Many dog owners decide to bring their pups along for their trip to the peaceful side of the Smokies. There are many RV parks, cabin rentals, and hotels in the Maryville, TN, area that welcome dogs. But once you arrive, what should you do with your pet? That’s easy – head to the PetSafe Dog Park at Pistol Creek!
What You Need to Know About the PetSafe Dog Park
This is Maryville, TN’s first dog park, and it offers plenty of room for your dog to run and play safely. The park is open from sunup to sundown, and features two separated, fenced-in areas. One is for larger breeds, while the other is for smaller breeds who may not want to be tumbled around by playful big dogs. Both areas have a double-gated entrance, so that you can step in through one gate, close it behind you, remove your dog’s leash, and then open the gate to the park and let them take off.
The dog park has a pavilion where you can enjoy some shade, and also benches, waste stations, and dog-only water fountains. There is some parking at the dog park, but you can also easily park nearby and walk to the park, which is right by the McCammon Avenue and McGhee Street entrance to the Bicentennial Greenbelt Park.
Keeping Your Dog Safe at the Dog Park
At the dog park, your dog will be in a safe environment. Only dogs with up-to-date vaccinations are allowed in the park, and owners are required to be in sight of their dogs at all time. There are also rules in place regarding aggression – at the very first sign of aggression, owners are required to leash their dogs. The park’s rules make sure that everyone stays safe, so that your dog can have tons of fun. You can learn more about the dog park rules here.
Fun Things to Do with Your Dog at PetSafe Dog Park
There are many ways that a dog park can give your dog some extra exercise while you are on vacation. Playing a good game of chase with other friendly dogs is always a pleaser, but consider bringing a ball, Frisbee, or their favorite toy for a game of fetch, as well. The large dog area is a full acre, and the small dog area is a half an acre, so the dogs do have room to chase after a nice long throw. Bring your dog to burn off their energy and have some fun, and they’ll be sure to be relaxed later when you want to get out and explore Maryville!

Downtown Maryville’s Historic Capitol Theatre Has a Speakeasy, the Emerald Room

Posted on December 7, 2017 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Drinking, Maryville

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.”

For more information about the Capitol Theatre, or to book an event, visit http://www.bookthecapitol.com/.

Experience a Group Camp Adventure at Eagle Rock in Maryville, TN

Posted on May 11, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Groups, Maryville

Eagle Rock is the brainchild of a group of dedicated volunteers who spent many years bringing teens on retreats to part of East Tennessee. They found that everyone enjoyed the fellowship, the camaraderie and the chance to enjoy sharing their life changing experiences with Jesus Christ. In time, the land was purchased to establish Eagle Rock Camp with a lodge, bunkhouses, an outdoor amphitheater, and more. But this is just the beginning. If you are looking for some summer fun, take a look at these amazing activities and then be sure to book your stay early, as spaces go fast.
The Rope Course
This is a state-of-the-art high ropes course with several elements. The design requires you to make use of multiple maneuvering skills and techniques to traverse the entire course. The ropes range in height from 20 to 45 feet off the ground and take you through the beautiful woods giving you a spectacular view of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Rock Climbing/ Rappelling
These are two of the most sought-after activities. Eagle Rock’s 45-foot cliff rock face is rated as having some of the best rappelling and rock climbing is the southeastern United States. Under the careful tutelage of great instructors, campers here learn about self-confidence while at the same time learning about the spiritual analogies of trusting others even when they don’t quite understand.
Creative Arts
Whether you are a crayon and coloring book artist or the next Picasso, campers have the opportunity to explore their creativity through various activities like painting and photography. This gives each camper a chance to explore their talents at their own pace.
Paintball
Eagle Rock first introduced paintball back in 2010 and it quickly became one of the most popular activities offered. Participants take part in a number of activities with a range of goals, but they must learn to work as a team if they want to reach the ultimate goal.
Canoeing
There is no better way to enjoy the trip from Chilhowee Lake to the base of the Abrams Falls, located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, than by canoe. This is one of the most peaceful activities offered and includes a five-mile hike, swimming, searching for arrowheads, and more.
Hiking
Campers will find a nice variety of trails of varying difficulties. They include short 30-minute strolls all the way up to 5-mile treks. There are so many places to go, such as the Abrams Falls, the old Gold Mine Trail, a bat cave and more. Each hike comes with a fresh supply of Great Smoky Mountains, fresh air and amazing scenery.
Tubing
Nothing could be more fun on a hot summer day than floating on the cold waters of the Little River. Campers can do this as a solo activity or as the perfect end to a long bike trek or hike. The ride lasts a full hour going through mostly calm waters. There are a few mild rapids on the way down that are sure to add a little excitement to the journey.
From amazing activities to home-cooked meals and the chance to get closer to God and nature, Eagle Rock Camp has so much to offer. Their vision has been to give everyone of all ages the chance to meet Jesus Christ for the first time or to see him in a new and life-changing way. More than this, Eagle Rock is a Christian Missions organization and serves a community of like-minded Christian churches, groups, individuals, and ministries. Be sure to book your reservations now for this summer, as spaces are filling quickly.

Get Back to Nature at Maryville's Pistol Creek Wetlands Center

Posted on May 18, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Maryville

One of the least popular parts of living in a modern city is the concrete jungles they have become. These days, finding trees, let alone animals, can be challenging. But for those who come to visit Maryville, TN to get away from it all and grab some fresh Smoky Mountain air, there is one place you simply cannot afford to miss. The Pistol Creek Wetland Center is a peaceful haven filled with local flora, fauna, and wildlife designed to be enjoyed by schools, civic organizations, families, and just about anyone who wants to get back in touch with Mother Nature.

Where It All Began

In the late 1990s the city of Maryville, TN purchased a section of the old Delozier farm on Montvale Station Rd. In 2006, the Environmental Protection Agency awarded the City of Maryville a grant that covered the entire cost of the project, leaving the city with no bills to pay.
Under the watchful eye of Dr. Ben Cash and Dr. Mark O’Gorman, students from Maryville College participated in the initial study along with post-construction activities at the Center. Once the initial construction of the Center was finished, the area grew into a sapling grove filled with invasive species.

And On to Today

Today, the Center offers visitors a chance to stroll along walkways that offer informational signs filled with educational details about the many different types of plants, native birds, and animals that have chosen to call the Center home. The entire area has been turned into a learning center. The signs also share information about the wetlands and how important they are to our environment.
Students from Maryville College continue to contribute by working with the many different school classes that come to the Center each year. They share a wealth of knowledge with the kids, covering many of the local wildlife, and often introducing them to living members of various species. This is a golden opportunity to teach today’s kids what it’s like to get in touch with nature.

The Legacy Will Continue

Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Maryville College students, Dr. Matt Gray – a professor who teaches Wetlands Ecology and Management at UT – and a task team, the long-term outlook for the park is excellent.

Before You Go

If you are considering taking a civic group or school class to the facility, you should contact the Center at (865) 273-3401 to make a reservation. Book early as availability is limited and on a first come, first served basis. We recommend that schools send only one class at a time to ensure the best possible experience for the students. There is plenty of parking for busses and no charge for you to bring your kids to the center.
The Pistol Creek Wetland Center is the perfect place for kids and adults of all ages to get back in touch with nature and enjoy an incredible array of local plants and animals. Come back several times a year to see how the scenery changes with each season.

Maryville’s Main Street Attracts New Businesses and Residents

Posted on April 13, 2017 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Maryville

Nestled in the foothills of the scenic Smoky Mountains with a quaint yet vibrant downtown, it’s no wonder Maryville, Tennessee, is recognized for its quality of life.
Situated in a prime locale, this East Tennessee city is just 30 miles from picturesque Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, providing hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, over 1,500 kinds of flora and diverse wildlife. Yet it still has the convenience of a regional airport less than five miles away and access to major interstates
The beauty of the area and convenience draws a wide range of businesses with an abundance of job opportunities. Headquartered in Maryville are companies like national restaurant chain Ruby Tuesday, women’s apparel chain Altar’d State, DENSO – a manufacturing company with 3500 employees, Clayton Homes and Newell Rubbermaid, just to name some.
Now is an exciting time for Downtown Maryville. At the end of 2016, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development announced Maryville’s achievement of a Main Street accreditation. The designation has opened the city up to grant opportunities that will aid in the downtown’s revitalization and economic development efforts—an initiative begun in 2007.
As the area grows and the development efforts gain traction, businesses are attracted to historic Downtown Maryville, with its charming character and bustling activity. The streets of downtown have a wealth of fantastic dining and shopping choices, providing residents and visitors alike with diverse options.
For those desiring fresh, made-from-scratch recipes and a fine dining experience, Sullivan’s Fine Food on West Broadway Avenue has delectable steaks and southern favorites like farm-raised, hand breaded catfish, shrimp and stone-ground grits and fried green tomatoes. Dinner can be polished off with light and creamy peanut butter pie or French vanilla bean banana pudding.
Winning the Blount Partnership New Business of the Year, Roost is a clever home furnishings store with interior design services on Broadway Avenue. The store is owned by Paula Osborn, a Maryville native since the age of three. It’s unique with a flair for timeless and causal style. Osborn finds many benefits in the Downtown Maryville location.
“I love being in the heart of my hometown and working in the upper level of my building and hearing the noises of our little city,” said Osborn. “By locating my business downtown, I have gotten to know so many wonderful people in our community. I have also had the opportunity to be a part of some committees that are working to promote and grow our downtown. I’m excited for the future of Maryville.”
One street over on East Church Avenue, the staff of Dandy Lions brings the best combination of gifts to the area. Their friendly, welcoming service, and unique, sought-after gifts and stationery provide an instant smile.
Downtown Maryville is often buzzing with activity and entertainment. Friday Night Lights, held the last Friday of every month from April through October, has something for everyone with family-friendly activities, music, food trucks and games. Local businesses often host mini-events within their businesses on the evenings of Friday Night Lights, attracting patrons.
Music enthusiasts will find many options. Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria, located on Broadway Avenue, offers bands most nights of the week, delicious pizza and a comprehensive craft beer selection.
For those seeking the best blues music in the region, Brackins Blues Club, also on Broadway, has live music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. While kicking back to music at Brackins, customers can enjoy a menu of delicious pub-style food, craft beer and fine bourbon.
Brackins General Manager Christina O’Rourke finds there is something special in being a downtown business.
“We are in one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Maryville, and the history is pretty cool,” said O’Rourke. “We enjoy being at the center of it all and watching the downtown grow. We try to contribute to that growth, and it’s a pretty great feeling.”
The Main Street accreditation is in its infancy, but change will soon come. For downtown businesses, it’s a valuable title.
“Just having the recognition of being a Main Street can only do great things for all of us here in Downtown Maryville,” said O’Rourke. “Foot traffic has been picking up. We’re looking forward to the future.”
Blount Partnership Director of Tourism Kim Mitchell has been an integral part of the accreditation progress and was chosen as the program’s director.
“The accreditation was made possible by the wonderful downtown businesses and community events,” Mitchell said. “We’re excited to see the downtown become a thriving community, and to be part of Main Streets across the country. This is an honor and will aid in the revitalization and economic development efforts.”
The Main Street designation is an honor for the city, which will continue its efforts to attract business and tourism to the area, making it a vibrant place for residents to call home.

Once Closed to Public, RT Lodge in Maryville Now Welcomes Guests

Posted on January 30, 2017 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Lodging, Maryville

Gary Doyle didn’t want this treasure to remain hidden.
For 20 years, RT Lodge in Maryville, Tenn., hosted corporate retreats, weddings and other events in its elegant, secluded setting next to the Maryville College Woods. But by 2016, demand had climbed high enough to justify opening the Ruby Tuesday-owned deluxe hotel and restaurant to the public.
“It seemed to us that there was a great opportunity to provide a downtown Maryville option for hotel accommodations that provided quick access to the airport and surrounding business community for those needing a home base,” said Doyle, RT Lodge’s general manager.
The Lodge began welcoming personal diners and lodgers to its restored 1930’s-era campus last August, and so far the move has been a resounding success.
“It is extremely rewarding to provide a public restaurant and hotel to individuals without the restrictions of being part of a retreat or wedding event,” Doyle said. “This diversity of group and individual venues and services we provide might drive others batty, but we enjoy the mix.”
Those services include lush accommodations featuring custom-crafted furniture in a classic lodge environment, as well as a gourmet restaurant led by Executive Chef Trevor Stockton. RT Lodge also remains a prized local destination for special events and corporate retreats.
“Our isolated location adjacent to Maryville College Woods in the middle of Maryville gives the feeling of being at a remote, natural and elegantly rustic hotel and restaurant, while being only 30 minutes from downtown Knoxville and 10 minutes from the airport,” said Doyle.
All guest rooms at RT Lodge are furnished with a king or two single beds, each topped with down comforters and made up with the elegant, country-house comfort of Ralph Lauren linens. The 60-bed lodging space is divided into two buildings, both in close proximity to the main lodge.
The restaurant, which accepts reservations Tuesdays through Saturdays, offers a gourmet seasonal menu, extensive drink list and intimate atmosphere.
Events, weddings and group retreats remain RT Lodge’s specialty. Its campus offers formal boardrooms, a laid-back fire pit and everything in between, as well as customized dining menus and the technology to facilitate productive meetings.
“For retreats and weddings there is an intimacy provided by the small campus feel to this footprint,” Doyle said. “It provides privacy from the herd when desired while keeping quick accessibility to event activity and services.”
Doyle emphasizes that while RT Lodge may be a complex business to run, it all boils down to a simple philosophy: If you provide premium hospitality, guests will become friends.
“One of the goals is to leave no details unattended, from the aesthetics and lighting, outstanding meals, warm and comfortable living spaces and accommodations, to genuine, friendly, helpful interactions with a hospitality-driven service and culinary team,” Doyle said. “If every need is anticipated and provided in a way that is above expectations, then hopefully our guests will leave here feeling better than when they arrived.”
“I had a guest relay to me a couple of weeks ago that the Lodge team was providing mission work. Our interactions, smiles, and sincere display of warm hospitality had promoted an elevation of spirit in his group.
“That’s the kind of feedback we enjoy receiving.”
To book a stay, meal or event at RT Lodge, visit www.rtlodge.com.

Ready for a Picnic? Enjoy the Beauty of Bicentennial Park

Posted on August 24, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Maryville

There is nothing quite like enjoying a warm day out in the summer sunshine with your family in the Maryville, Tennessee area. One of the more popular parks in the area is the Bicentennial Park that sits in the heart of Maryville, TN. For those that are new to Maryville or are just visiting, the one thing you might not know about the area the park sits on is that at one point in time, the area was home to a light industrial park. The various industries here at the time were responsible for dumping so much pollution in Pistol Creek that nothing could live in the creek or the land surrounding it.

Urban Renewal at Its Best

Bicentennial Park is the result of an urban renewal project created by the City of Maryville over the span of several years leading up to the nation’s Bicentennial celebration in 1976. The high levels of pollution were the main reason behind the city’s decision to renovate this area and turn it into a park the entire town could enjoy. The park was just the beginning, as it led to the development of the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, something the locals typically refer to as the “Greenbelt.”
The entire area around it got a new lease on life, with new businesses and homes also appearing. The flock of Canadian geese that call the park home has done so for over 50 years. Along with the park itself, there are miles of trails for you and your family to explore on foot, on bike, skates, or skateboards.
Your kids are sure to enjoy the vast open areas of greenspace they can run around on, play on, or use to simply relax in the sun. The trails have plenty of benches in the shade for you to relax on while your kids play. Make sure you prepare a picnic lunch and plenty of drinks for everyone so that you can enjoy the whole day out in the sunshine and fresh air.

What If You Don’t Want to Pack a Picnic?

If you prefer not to have a picnic, there are several delightful local eateries within easy walking distance of the park that are well-worth checking out. The park has water fountains in several locations in case someone gets thirsty, including some just for the four-legged member of your family. A dog park has been added where you can let your dog run free off-leash and play with the other dogs, or you can take him hiking with the rest of the family on the many trails leading out of the park.
Bicentennial Park is a fantastic place filled with open grassy areas to play in, shade trees to relax under, and trails to hike. Your kids are going to love feeding the ducks who call the park’s pond home. You can bring the whole family for a day of fun in the sun, or you can sneak away for some “alone” time under a shade tree with a good book.

Spend a Day Exploring Maryville, Tennessee

Posted on January 8, 2019 by dstech - Blog, Maryville

Tucked into the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the town of Maryville, TN dates far back in America’s history. Beginning as an 18th century fort, it officially became a town before the turn of that same century. Just twenty short miles from the bright lights and fun of Knoxville, it retains a small-town feel and, as it is surrounded by beautiful scenery, it is a popular place among the region’s many travelers.

What to Do in Maryville

While one of the common things to do during a visit to Maryville is to actually leave it and head into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (with an entrance just 13 miles from downtown), there is a great deal to see and do in the town itself. A brief list of the local activities include:

The Alcoa-Maryville Greenway – Running between the two towns, it features a riverside footpath and bicycle path with many ways to enter or exit along the way. Nine miles in length, it begins in Maryville’s Sandy Springs Park and you will often be able to access shopping districts and nature areas from the trail.
Sam Houston Historic Schoolhouse – Though associated with Texas, Sam Houston originated in East Tennessee and was a teacher in the Maryville area. A visit here is unforgettable and truly charming at any time of year.
Blount County Historical Museum – Located in town, it can be a great companion to a visit to the Cades Cove Museum and the Sam Houston site (above) if you want a good history of the region.
Capitol Theater – This authentic Art Deco treasure dates back to the 1920s and can seat around one thousand guests. Book a tour, and visit their coffee house.
The Antique Malls – If you are an antique enthusiast, you have some great choices right in Maryville, including the Parkway Antique Mall and the Druid Hill Antique Mall, among others.
Foothills Mall – A classic mall with movie theater, shops, and big box stores, it also features specialty stores and eateries.
Vineyards and Breweries – Like other areas of the region, Maryville also meets the needs and interests of those eager to sample local specialties that include wine and other alcoholic beverages. Options popular with travelers include Blue Goose Farm and Vineyards, Round 6 Brewing, and Pleasant Hill Vineyards, among others.

When the weather is fine, there is even more you can do and see in town. For example, there is a fully functional drive-in movie theater, The Parkway Drive-In, that remains open from spring through fall.
Don’t forget that the area is ideal for cabin rentals all year long, and these can serve as a wonderful base from which to make a greater exploration of Maryville and the entire region. Whether you head to Look Rock Tower along the Foothills Parkway (another great thing to explore while in town) or do a food tour of the many barbecue restaurants and other specialty foods, you can make an entire vacation from this one town and the natural beauty all around it.

Take the Kids to a Real Drive-In Theater in Maryville, Tennessee

Posted on June 22, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Maryville

Remember the days when Saturday nights meant the latest movie showing at the drive-in? There was once a time when just about every town large enough to have a drive-in theater had one. It was the way America took the family out for a low-cost night of entertainment. The smell of the popcorn, hot dogs sizzling on the grills behind the booth, and the scratchy sound of the window speakers. Ah, such wonderful memories. Sadly, in most parts of the country, those days are long gone, as drive-ins are few and far between these days.
Guess What? – It’s Movie Time in Maryville, TN
While drive-in theaters may be gone in most of the country, you can still introduce your kids to the same level of excitement you enjoyed as a kid. Here in Maryville, TN, you can still pile everyone in the car and head to the Parkway Drive-In. Here, you can enjoy some of the latest movies with double-features showing every Friday and Saturday night and some Sunday nights.
Many of the movies shown are rated PG or PG-13 so you can bring the whole family. Prices are extremely reasonable at only $8 for adults, $3 for kids ages 5 through 12, and kids 4 and under are free. There is room for up to 400 cars. Once the theater reaches maximum capacity, the gates are closed and no one else is allowed to enter. To make it more enjoyable and safe for everyone, they do not allow walk-ins.
Your Kids Are Going to Love the Experience
Make your first visit to the Parkway Drive-In with the kids a big surprise. Pile them in the car and simply tell them you have a really cool surprise for them. Imagine their faces when you pull up to the gates! It doesn’t matter whether the weather is warm and dry or chilly and rainy, the shows always go on and start at dusk or dark.
Remember those scratchy speakers you used to hang on your window? Luckily, those days are long gone. Today, the Parkway Drive-In broadcasts the entire soundtrack via FM radio so you can listen to it from your car stereo. Alternatively, you can rent an FM radio at the concessions booth.
With an FM broadcast, you can tune in on a portable FM radio and sit outside on blankets and chairs as long as you stay within your dedicated space. Don’t forget the concession stand, loaded with burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, popcorn, and more. There are plenty of goodies to treat your kids (and yourself!) with to create a great night out at the movies.
What are you waiting for? Load up the kids and take them out to experience a real part of American history: Saturday night at the drive-in movies. Remember to check the website frequently to see what movies are playing and pack a few blankets to sit on for a great night out with the family.

Terminal 1346: Smoky Mountain Staycation

Posted on June 23, 2020 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Lodging, Maryville

TERMINAL 1346: SMOKY MOUNTAIN STAYCATION

We found an East Tennessee jewel for your Smoky Mountain Staycation. Terminal 1346 is an Airbnb property that offers a unique and unexpected place to stay in Maryville, TN. In 2016, the Smith family purchased a six-acre plot of land that housed an old airplane hangar and a World War II train car. A year later, they took on the task of renovating the structures, resulting in an architectural masterpiece. This two-bedroom space offers comfort, luxury, and magazine-worthy design.
Read all about why travel writer Kristin Luna calls Terminal 1346 one of her all-time, top three short-term rentals here.