Located just outside Maryville, TN, is a local sight that many visitors pass right by, without even realizing what they’ve missed. Nestled into the heart of the peaceful side of the Smokies is the Blue Goose Vineyard and Winery, a family-owned business that produces some of the best wine in the state. The winery operates under the Appalachian spirit of farm-to-table – everything needed to create, store, package, and sell the wine is located right on the family vineyard, which has been in the family for five generations. Here’s why any wine lover should stop at the Blue Goose when visiting Maryville.
Have a Chic Date at the Rustic Farm Winery
The tasting room of the winery is located in the classic barn that was transformed from a working barn to a chic gathering space. Relax in the beautiful area while you sip, check out the gift shop, look at art from local artists, and more. The wine is a traditional Appalachian muscadine, which is sweet but not overly so. Whether your palette is very dry or more familiar with dessert wines, you’ll love Blue Goose. The property is also home to livestock and crops – it is a real working farm in every sense of the phrase. You’ll be able to see some of the livestock and farm life as you visit, which makes it a unique adventure if you’ve never had the chance to see a farm up close before. The winery is open to visitors Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 11AM to 6PM, and Friday from 11AM to 7PM.
Bring a Bottle of Blue Goose Home
A bottle of locally made wine is the perfect gift to bring home to family or friends, or for your own souvenir. Grab a bottle to take with you back to your cabin rental, hotel, or RV while you stay with us here in the Maryville area, and enjoy your night like the locals do. The wine selection is quite varied, so you can try a little of everything, or stick to your favorites. The property is also used for local events frequently. The winery can be rented out for a wedding, a community event, and more. In recent years, the community held an eclipse-viewing event here, and many of the locals came by to get a good look at this celestial wonder – and sip some local wine, of course!
Make This Local Gem a Must on Your Vacation Itinerary
Find out more about Blue Goose or take a look at their wine menu online. The winery is a fantastic way to have a relaxing afternoon before you head into the city for dinner reservations, or as a way to wind down after a day of fun.
With the school year wrapping up, now’s the perfect time to sign up for summer camp on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. From hiking and swimming to crafting and dancing, there’s an adventure waiting for every kid and teen.
Blount County Parks & Rec hosts day camps that are all about getting active, ranging from sports training to outdoor games.
“Just Get Outdoors” Nature Adventure Camp (Ages 8–12): A fun, outdoor camp where kids explore stream and forest ecology through hands-on lessons in plant and animal biology, animal tracking and nature crafts in a positive, engaging environment.
May 27–30, 2025
Camp Chickababa (Children with disabilities, Ages 6+): Specially adapted for campers with disabilities, this inclusive camp offers therapeutic and fun activities—like arts & crafts, music, and indoor/outdoor games.
Week 1: June 23–27, 2025
Week 2: June 30–July 4, 2025
East Tennessee Quarterback and Receiver School (Rising 6th–8th grade): This camp focuses on developing passing and receiving skills through drills and techniques designed to enhance Quarterback and Receiver play.
June 9–11, 2025
East Tennessee Football School for Offensive and Defensive Linemen (Rising 6th-8th grade): This camp provides position-specific instruction for offensive and defensive linemen, focusing on drills and techniques to build essential skills.
June 9–11, 2025
Future Stars Football Skills Camp (Rising 2nd–5th grade): This camp provides fundamental instruction for all offensive and defensive football positions, helping campers build skills and gain a deeper understanding of their preferred roles through targeted drills and activities.
June 16–18, 2025
Girls Volleyball Camp (Rising 5th–9th grade): Designed for beginner to intermediate players, this camp helps improve volleyball skills and overall court performance while preparing students for school tryouts.
May 27–29, 2025
Marsh Madness Basketball Camp (Ages 8–12): This camp teaches campers fundamental basketball skills and position-specific techniques to help them grow in the game.
June 23–26, 2025
“Camp Move” by Stretch-N-Grow (Ages 3–10): This weekday summer camp offers a variety of enrichment activities including Stretch-N-Grow programs, STEM, crafts, games, relays, obstacle courses, and afternoon water play or swimming.
Week 1: June 2–6, 2025 Week 2: June 9–13, 2025 Week 3: June 16–20, 2025 Week 4: June 23–27, 2025 Week 5: July 7–11, 2025 Week 6: July 14–18, 2025 Week 7: July 21–25, 2025 Week 8: July 28– August 1, 2025
MLK Youth Summer Day Camp (Ages 5–12): This camp offers a variety of activities including a literacy program, computer lab, swimming, field trips, outdoor games, arts & crafts and more, with breakfast and lunch provided.
May 27–June 27, 2025
Soccer Camp (Ages 5–13): This camp offers technical and tactical instruction focused on enhancing individual ball control and skill development.
June 2–5, 2025
Softball Camp (Rising 3rd–8th grade): This camp focuses on the fundamentals of throwing, fielding, hitting, base running and sliding.
June 2– 4, 2025
Sports and More Kids’ Camp (Ages 5–14): This camp offers sports stations for campers of all skill levels to experience a variety of activities, focusing on teamwork, individual achievement and sportsmanship in a fun, positive environment.
Week 1: June 3– 6, 2025 Week 2: June 10– 13, 2025
Track and Field Camp (Ages 6–12): This camp provides instruction on track and field competition, focusing on drills and techniques to develop speed, running form, field event skills (shot put, discus, long jump, high jump and triple jump), and strategies for both sprinters and distance runners.
July 7–9, 2025
Performing Arts Camp (Ages 8–13): This camp is perfect for young performing artists, offering skills in theater, dance, music, prop making/design and more, taught by professionals in each area.
June 16–20, 2025
Wrestling Camp (Ages 6–14): This camp teaches proper wrestling positions—top, bottom, and neutral—along with techniques like pinning and combinations, and includes drills and a takedown tournament/live wrestling session.
June 9–12, 2025
Beach Week Boogie Battles by Stretch-N-Grow (Ages 3–8): This fun-filled camp features beach-themed dancing, relays, races, crafts, STEM activities and more, ending with a Foam Party Finale.
June 23–25, 2025
The Wild West with Water Battles by Stretch-N-Grow (Ages 3–8): This Wild West-themed camp features daily water battles, rodeo games, sack races, wet obstacle courses, crafts, STEM activities and more.
May 27–30, 2025
Fitness Stars Field Days by Stretch-N-Grow (Ages 3–8): This camp brings classic outdoor fun with competitions, sports, relays, games, crafts, STEM activities and more, topped off with a Foam Party Finale.
July 7–9, 2025
Give It a Tri – Youth Sprint Triathlon Camp (Ages 8–14): This camp introduces youth to the world of multisport, offering daily instruction in swimming, biking and running, and culminating in a mini sprint mock triathlon led by USATriathlon Certified Coach Kat Uchman.
Photo courtesy of the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.
The Tremont Institute offers overnight summer camps in the Smokies. These all-inclusive experiences are designed to connect campers with nature and new friends from across the country.
While they tend to fill up quickly, there are a few camps that are still open for registration.
Firefly Camp (Ages 4–8, with accompanying adults): This flexible one-, two- or three-night family camp in Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers games, nature exploration, stream wading, campfire fun and firefly watching—giving you and your child a fun, gentle introduction to the summer camp experience.
July 1–4, 2025
Teen High Adventure (Ages 13–17): This 10-day, 9-night backcountry adventure invites teens to explore the Smokies through seven days of backpacking, learning outdoor living skills, gaining confidence and connecting with nature—ending with a well-earned hot shower and a day of paddling.
July 14–24, 2025
Great Smokies Experience (Rising HS juniors, seniors and recent grads): This immersive 11-day college program blends outdoor adventure with environmental study, allowing students to earn college credit while exploring the Smokies through hikes, canoeing, species surveys and hands-on learning.
Creative Spark Studio, located in Maryville, is offering a variety of four-day art camps for ages six and up.
All Things Paper (Ages 8–15): In this four-day art camp, young artists of all skill levels will explore papermaking, bookbinding and sculpture, culminating in an art show.
May 27– 30, 2025
T-shirt lap quilt (Ages 8–15): In this four-day camp, young creators of all skill levels will learn machine and hand sewing techniques to craft their own t-shirt lap quilt, ending in an art show.
May 27– 30, 2025
Tropical Oasis (Ages 6–12): In this four-day camp, budding artists of all skill levels will explore painting, drawing, sculpture and mixed media, celebrating with a final art show.
June 3– 6, 2025
Fantastical Universe (Ages 6–12): In this four-day camp, young artists will explore the wonders of the universe through painting, drawing, sculpture and mixed media, wrapping up with an art show.
June 10–13, 2025
Drawing and Illustration (Ages 8–15): In this four-day camp, young artists will focus on drawing and illustrating 3D images while exploring other creative mediums like painting and collage, concluding with an art show.
Van Metre School of Dance, located in Maryville, will host three dance camps and provide private classes.
Fairytale Camp (Ages 4–7): This camp offers lessons in ballet, jazz, modern and choreography for an exciting and magical summer experience.
June 9–13, 2025
Intermediate Camp (Ages 7+): This camp offers a variety of technique, conditioning and performance classes, including ballet, pre-pointe, modern, jazz and hip-hop.
June 9–13, 2025
Summer Intensive (Ages 12+): This camp offers a variety of technique, conditioning and performance classes, including ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, contemporary and hip-hop; pointe required.
Broadway Center of the Arts has four intensive musical theatre camps planned. Two are still open for registration.
Camp Pure Imagination (Rising 9th grade–2025 HS grads): This 5-day performing camp offers a week full of theatrical fun and learning, culminating in a performance.
June 16–20, 2025
Camp The Lion King KIDS (Rising 2nd–8th grade): This 5-day performing camp featuring The Lion King KIDS offers a week full of theatrical fun and learning, culminating in a performance.
Camp Wesley Woods, located in Townsend, is a faith-based retreat center focused on spiritual development and outdoor education. They offer a variety of sleepaway camps throughout the summer.
Discovery Half-Week (2nd–4th grade): This first overnight camp experience is designed for young campers to try new activities, make friends and become part of the camp community with fun activities like swimming, archery, campfires and exploring the creek.
June 30–July 2, 2025
Basecamp (4th–10th grade): This camp offers campers the opportunity to unplug, make new friends and try new activities like swimming, archery, pottery and fishing, while growing in their relationship with God and enjoying special events throughout the week.
Week 1: June 1– 6, 2025
Week 2: June 22–27, 2025
Week 3: July 20–25, 2025
Adventure Glamping (6th–10th grade): This camp offers campers the chance to stay in air-conditioned accommodations while participating in adventurous activities like caving, paddling, climbing and hiking, all while exploring East Tennessee and deepening their relationship with God.
Week 1: June 1– 6, 2025
Week 2: June 8–20, 2025
Week 3: July 6–18, 2025
Week 4: July 20–25, 2025
Leader-in-Training (Rising 10th grade): This program offers campers the chance to develop servant leadership skills through hands-on experience, while gaining new skills in camp operations, having fun and making new friends.
June 22–27, 2025
Gym Counts
Gym Counts, located in Maryville, offers full and half-day gymnastics camps for ages 5–13.
The camps will feature a mix of indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, and gym-based activities such as gymnastics, parkour, ninja warrior courses and trampoline instruction.
The Blount Partnership announced today that Director of Tourism Kim Mitchell was named “Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year” by HospitalityTN. The award was given during the Stars of the Industry Gala at the Governor’s Conference on September 16, 2021, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Mitchell has served as the director of tourism for the Blount Partnership and the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority since 2014.
The “Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year” award distinguishes a female professional leader in the hospitality industry. The recipient is a role model with noteworthy accomplishments, leadership roles, and volunteer positions.
HospitalityTN is a not-for-profit trade association that represents the hospitality and tourism industry in Tennessee. It highlights lodging and dining establishments in the state, as well as other businesses involved in the industry. The organization plays a role in benefitting the businesses by protecting their interests and managing issues brought on by the political, legislative, regulatory, and economic forces that impact the industry.
For the past 32 years, HospitalityTN has recognized outstanding employees and organizations through their Stars of the Industry Awards Program.
Mitchell received a degree in hotel and restaurant management with a minor in marketing at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
She began her career in the hospitality industry at the Knoxville Airport Hilton and later served at The Garden Inn in Oak Ridge followed by the McNabb Center.
Through her work with the Blount Partnership and SMTDA, Mitchell has contributed to increasing travel and tourism through marketing strategy and execution. She excels in garnering local, regional, and national media attention.
During the pandemic, Mitchell took initiative to ensure safety measures were met when promoting outdoor activities. The #CloserToHome campaign was launched to promote hyperlocal tourism and encourage day trips and shorter vacation stays in “your own backyard.”
Mitchell is a leader in many organizations. She serves on the board of directors at Townsend-Cades Cove Business Alliance, Maryville Downtown Association, and Knoxville-Smoky Mountains Greenway Trails. In addition, she holds leadership positions with Tennessee Main Streets – Downtown Maryville, Middle Tennessee Tourism Council, and the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.
“We’re proud of Kim’s hard work, leadership, and her expertise in hospitality, marketing, and event management,” said Blount Partnership President Bryan Daniels. “She possesses a passion and enthusiasm for Tennessee and Blount County. We congratulate her on her many accolades and dedication to raising the bar and ensuring Blount County is a top destination for travel. We are proud to have our very own Kim Mitchell named “Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year”.”
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, children in Blount County wrote letters to Santa Claus for publication in the local newspaper. These letters, spanning the 1920s through the 1960s, record Christmas wishes and everyday life across the county.
The 1920s
In the 1920s, Blount County was still rural, and Christmas lists reflected everyday life. Children asked for dolls, wagons, beads, wristwatches and BB guns. Apples, oranges, nuts, candy and chocolates appear again and again, listed alongside toys. Coats and gloves appear without explanation. Most children asked for only a few things.
Some children were more imaginative. Sampson, 1921, requested a few firecrackers and torpedoes, claiming that he’d tried “ever since last year to be as good as [he] can.” Photo courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
Late 1920s to 1930s
Letters to Santa from the late 1920s and 1930s. Photos courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
As the county moved into the late 1920s and 1930s, many of the same items stayed on Christmas lists. Children continued asking for wagons, bicycles, marbles, balls and toy guns. Fruit and candy appear year after year. Some lists grew longer. Others stayed brief. Toys and practical items continue to appear together.
Late 1930s to 1940s
By the late 1930s, Christmas lists expanded again. Children asked for a wider range of toys, including trains, tool sets, horns, sparklers and balls. Fruit, nuts and candy rounded out longer lists.
Stanley and Jerry Kirby, 1938. The oldest brother butters up Santa, calling him “the best looking man in Maryville.” Photo courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
As the decade turned and the 1940s began, lists tightened. Children still asked for dolls, balls and small toys, but requests became shorter and more exact.
Jo Ann, 1941, carefully itemized the price of each item she hoped to receive. Photo courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
The 1950s
Letters to Santa from the 1950s. Photos courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
By the 1950s, Christmas lists reflect a growing toy market. Children named specific gifts. Tiny Tears dolls are popular, along with doll buggies, doll furniture and playsets. Toy guns, cowboy and cowgirl outfits, tricycles, coloring books and crayons show up across multiple letters.
The 1960s
Letters to Santa from the 1960s. Photos courtesy of Blount County Virtual Archives.
By the 1960s, Christmas lists leaned into popular toys of the moment. Children asked for Thirsty Cry Baby dolls, skates, army men, helmets, periscopes and sleds. Some lists included jewelry and Bibles.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Little Arrow Outdoor Resort has become one of Townsend’s standout places to stay by offering a version of camping that feels a little more comfortable and a lot more memorable.
Located on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, the resort features RV sites, cabins, glamping tents, tiny homes, Airstreams and vacation homes, along with guest favorites like a pool, hot tub, hiking trails, river access and a pavilion for events.
Photo: Little Arrow Outdoor Resort
For Carmen Simpher, co-owner and CEO, the experience begins the moment guests arrive.
“What I like most is when guests come across the bridge, pull onto the property and you see the look on their face,” she said. “The mountains, the nature, the trees—that’s a win.”
Little Arrow began with a shared dream between Simpher, her sister and her brother-in-law.
“When the property where Little Arrow is came up for auction, my sister looked at me and said, ‘You know camping.’ She and my brother-in-law know tiny homes, and together we thought we could do something unique.”
Simpher said the project has brought their family closer together.
“It’s sometimes up and down, but you learn a really good trust,” she said. “Sometimes there’s trial and error, but you learn from the errors. I like to say, ‘You either win or you learn,’ and that’s what we do.”
Little Arrow’s appeal comes from the way it blends the outdoors with comfort. Guests can settle into a range of accommodations while enjoying amenities like the 24/7 Point & Feather Coffee Lounge, quiet hiking trails, a zero-entry pool with grottos and splash pad, a hot tub, sport courts, a dog park, two river access points, a boutique store, a playground and a community fire pit.
“I love to be outside, but I want a nice shower and a nice bed,” she said. “I’m done with sleeping on the dirt in a tent, so we elevated that.”
Her favorite way to explain it is simple.
“I like to camp, but my sister prefers the Ritz-Carlton, so together we try to create the best of both worlds.”
Groups can also book the Lookout Pavilion, which includes a double-sided fireplace, a catering kitchen, an audiovisual system and seating for up to 125 for weddings, reunions, parties and corporate retreats.
Amenities aside, the most meaningful part of Little Arrow is the way guests connect with the place and with each other.
“I hope my love for joy, my love for seeing people smile and the glory God’s given us in this beautiful location come through,” she said. “We want people to feel that and enjoy it.”
Over time, that has shown up in the lasting memories families build there.
“The people who were coming here years before we were even here, that’s pretty cool,” she said. “I’ll have people tell me their children learned to swim in the pool here, and now they have kids or grandkids of their own.”
“I love seeing kids and families having a good time together, not on screens, just outside enjoying nature and doing activities,” she said.
Simpher said the resort regularly welcomes visitors from near and afar.
“We are blessed to have both,” she said. “We love our locals. They’re usually really big repeat guests. But we also have guests from Florida, Alabama and Ohio.”
As Little Arrow expands, Simpher said protecting the resort’s identity matters just as much as adding something new.
“Customer service and the property, having things well maintained and well taken care of,” she said. “Those two top priorities are what we want to focus on: rolling out the red carpet to our guests, but also all the little details.”
That attention to detail comes naturally to her.
“For me, it’s difficult to turn it off,” Simpher said. “I get ideas at 9 p.m., and my management team will chuckle and say, ‘You emailed me at 9 p.m. last night,’ and I say, ‘Yeah, just leave it until tomorrow.’”
Recent additions include Secret Slice, the on-site pizza spot from the creators of Towns End Coffee + Shop, where guests and locals can stop by for pizza, wings and salads next to the Lookout Pavilion.
Simpher is just as thoughtful about what Little Arrow means for Townsend.
“We love Townsend,” she said. “Some people worry it might turn into something loud and bright, but no business I know wants that to happen. We want it to be a little more plush, more relaxed, with that peaceful mountain vibe.”
Her vision for that balance is “peaceful with a pulse.”
“We don’t want it to be a ghost town, but we also don’t want it to be a big, lit-up, loud circus,” she said.
She takes the same view of other businesses in Townsend.
“My other thing is community over competition,” Simpher said. “We want all of the businesses to thrive. If all of our business neighbors are doing well, we’re doing well.”
“The walkable aspect is huge,” she said. “You set up your camper, you’ve been working hard, and then you walk to Company Distilling and relax, have a cocktail and listen to some music. It’s a win.”
No matter which property guests choose to stay at, Simpher’s message is the same.
“Come here, have a good time and let us love on you.”
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Keep Blount Beautiful (KBB) and Little River Watershed Association (LRWA) are partnering for the 3rd Annual Little River Run 5K, set for 11 am on Saturday, November 13th at the Townsend Abbey in Townsend, TN. The Little River Run 5K represents a joint effort through which both organizations encourage participants to enjoy the beauty of Blount County, engage with their community, and help spread the message of environmental stewardship. Further, all proceeds from the run will support the many free events, programs, and educational initiatives offered by KBB and LRWA that advocate for an environmentally healthy Blount County.
Registration for the Little River Run 5K is now open for both in-person and virtual runners. For more information and to sign up, search “Little River Run 5K” at RunSignUp.com. Early-bird registration ends October 1st.
The Little River Run 5K is a chip-timed event. Participants of all ages and skill levels are welcome. After the run, participants can stay at the Townsend Abbey for food, drinks, and raffle prizes.
KBB and LRWA are still accepting sponsorships for the Little River Run 5K. If your business is interested in sponsoring, email [email protected] or fill out the form at http://www.keepblountbeautiful.org/little-river-run-5k. Businesses will be offered various levels of sponsorship that include business advertisements and other race-related benefits.
Little River Trading Company is excited to celebrate 25 years of providing quality outdoor gear and services to East Tennessee. Since its founding in 1996, Little River Trading Company has been known for its quality outdoor gear and clothing. Now, the store is planning a multi-day celebration event, scheduled for the fall, to thank customers for their years of support.
Located among the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Maryville, the store’s local ties are important to maintain. For Little River Trading Company owner Charles Woody, “Community is the biggest thing.” Operating the store has become a family affair in more ways than one. “I raised my boys in the business,” Woody says. The store has gone on to serve multiple generations of customers, he notes, adding, “It’s amazing to have the friends and families that still come in and shop with us, people that have shopped for 25 years.”
Now, Little River Trading Company is working to thank the community that supported them. A 25th Anniversary Celebration, scheduled for the fall, is in the works now with details to come soon. This event will feature unique activities and vendors, and a specialty beer from Blackberry Farms Brewery. For a limited time, the shop will also be reprinting shirts, hats, and other goods with their vintage Little River Trading Company 1996 logo, which will be available for purchase at the event.
“Our motto has always been ‘quality outdoor gear and clothing since 1996,’” says Woody, “and it always has been quality—everything.” Little River Trading Co. offers footwear, hiking gear, climbing supplies, clothing, camping equipment, and more. To learn more details about the 25th Anniversary or shop available products online, visit their website at littlerivertradingco.com or find them on Instagram @littlerivertrad and Facebook @littlerivertrading.
Summer fun on the Peaceful Side doesn’t require a big vacation budget.
Across Maryville, Alcoa and Townsend, visitors can cool off at local pools, explore museums, catch free concerts, watch drive-in movies, play indoor games, float the Little River and attend seasonal events for $25 or less.
This guide is organized by base adult price, using the lowest realistic entry point for each activity. Taxes, fees, rentals, parking, add-ons and advance-booking requirements may vary, so confirm current details before you go.
Downtown Maryville has a full summer soundtrack with the Levitt AMP Maryville Music Series. Held at the Maryville Greenbelt Amphitheater in Jack Greene Park, the series brings free concerts to the heart of Maryville every Thursday from July 2 through July 30, 7 to 9 p.m.
Upcoming performers include Darrell Scott on July 2, Chatham County Line on July 9, Cedric Burnside on July 16 and J & The Causeways on July 23. The series closes July 30 with Wyatt Ellis, an East Tennessee mandolinist, singer and songwriter whose bluegrass sound has earned national attention.
Admission is free, with donations appreciated. The museum is open daily from May through October, with Monday through Saturday hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday hours from 1 to 5 p.m.
The Cades Cove Museum at the historic Thompson-Brown House in Maryville preserves stories, photographs and artifacts from families who lived in Cades Cove before the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Admission is free, though donations are welcomed. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Blount County Historical Museum adds another free local history stop in Maryville. Exhibits highlight the people, places and stories that shaped Blount County.
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are welcomed.
The Blount County Public Library turns summer reading into a full-season program, with reading challenges for all ages and programs tied to dinosaurs, archaeology and history. The 2026 Summer Reading program runs June 8 through July 25.
The library calendar also includes summer movies, teen activities, chess, storytimes and other free programs.
The Sam Houston Historic Schoolhouse offers one of Maryville’s most affordable history experiences. Adult admission is $5, with lower rates for children ages 6 to 12 and free admission for ages 5 and under.
John Sevier Pool in Maryville and Springbrook Pool in Alcoa both keep summer swimming affordable. Adult daily admission is $5, and admission drops by $1 after 5 p.m.
One of Townsend’s best summer values is the amenities pass at Tremont Lodge & Resort. For $10, or $25 for a family of four, non-overnight guests can stop by the front desk and purchase a wristband for resort amenity access from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Amenities include an indoor pool, outdoor pool, outdoor movie screen, picnic area, firepit area, gazebo, pickleball court, fitness center, lounge and poolside bar.
Little River Campground & RV Resort also opens its pool to non-overnight guests. The campground has a $10 day pass, available for purchase at the camp office. The pool is open May through September from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Parkway Drive-In in Maryville turns a movie night into an outdoor double feature. Adult admission is $10 for two movies, with children ages 5 to 12 at $5 and children 4 and under free.
Movies play rain or shine, and gates typically open at 7 p.m.
Crest Bowling Lanes in Maryville makes rainy-day fun affordable. Games are $4 per person Monday through Thursday and Friday before 6 p.m. Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday games are $5.50 per person. Cosmic Bowl runs from 10 p.m. to midnight at $5 per game. Shoe rental is $3.75.
The Armory brings a new indoor entertainment venue to Maryville this summer. Opening July 20, the 27,000-square-foot space includes duckpin bowling, digital darts, a 9-hole putting course, shuffleboard, yard games and Valo Arena experiences.
Valo Arena is the lowest-cost offering, at $5 per person per game. Several weekday games also stay under $10, including Lucky Putt at $8 per person per game, Supercharged Shuffle at $6 per person per hour and duckpin bowling at $6 per person per game Monday through Thursday. Interactive darts are $10 per person per hour.
River Rage Tubing offers all-day tubing passes for $25 in Townsend. The route averages about an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and 30 minutes, depending on water levels.
The season runs through Labor Day and may be extended if weather allows. The minimum age is 6, and visitors can book online and check availability before going.
Smoky Mountain River Rat gives visitors access to two Townsend tubing routes with one day pass. During peak season, advance adult day passes are listed at $24.99 when booked at least two days ahead. Peak-season tickets purchased within two days cost more.
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend shares the history and culture of the Smokies through museum exhibits, historic structures and programs. Adult admission is $15, with reduced admission for seniors, children and veterans.
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center continues the experience outdoors with summer concerts in its covered amphitheater. The calendar includes July and August performances, including Sunset Concert Series dates on July 10, July 31 and Aug. 28.
Ticket prices vary by show, with Sunset Series tickets generally in the $5 to $25 range.
The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival returns to Townsend on Aug. 15 from 3 to 9 p.m. General admission is $10 in advance or $15 at the gate, with children 10 and under free. Parking costs $20 in advance or $25 at the gate.
For a guided Cades Cove experience, book a hayride with Cades Cove Riding Stables. Hayrides are $25 for ages 16 and up and $15 for ages 2 to 15.
The operating season runs March 3 through Nov. 30, with daily hours from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Rides are subject to weather and trail conditions.
Plan Ahead and Spend Less
The best low-cost summer days often come down to timing. Book tubing in advance, check weekday pricing, visit pools after 5 p.m. and look for presale tickets when available. With a little planning, a fun outing can cost less than $25 per person.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.
While Maryville may be situated in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, its music scene is anything but quiet. Rich in talent, heart and heritage, this small town has produced an impressive range of nationally recognized artists. Here are six Maryville natives who’ve made their mark on the music world.
Every summer, musicians from all over the country gather on the Maryville College campus for Steve Kaufman’s Acoustic Kamp. What began as a single flatpicking workshop has grown into the largest event of its kind in the world, drawing students of all ages and skill levels to study guitar, fiddle, mandolin, bajo and more under the guidance of world-class instructors.
A three-time National Flatpicking Champion, Kaufman is a living legend in the acoustic music world. Born into a musical family, Steve explored piano, cello, electric guitar and finally acoustic guitar—where he found his lifelong passion after hearing Doc Watson for the first time. By 21, he had already won his first national title, eventually becoming the only three-time winner in the contest’s history.
Steve’s influence stretches far beyond performance. Since the ‘80s, he has created more than 100 instructional books and videos, taught thousands of students and toured the world hosting clinics, concerts and workshops. Dubbed the “World’s Guitar Instructor,” Steve’s legacy is built not just on technical mastery, but also on a passion for sharing the joy of music. You can explore his work, tour dates and teaching materials at flatpik.com.
Robinella is a genre-blending songstress, weaving together bluegrass, country and jazz. A native of Maryville, she first gained national attention as the lead singer of Robinella & the CC Stringband. Their unique sound earned them a deal with Columbia Records, a national tour and appearances alongside legends like Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson and Earl Scruggs. She also graced the stages of NPR’s “Mountain Stage,” PBS’s “SoundStage” and “Late Night with Conan O’Brien.”
Following her early success, life brought Robinella back home to the Smokies, where she found renewed inspiration in family, faith and the slower rhythms of life. Her more recent work, like the acclaimed Fly Away Bird, reflects a deeper emotional richness—poetic, heartfelt and rooted in personal truth.
Her music continues to evolve, but her voice remains as soulful and sincere as ever, drawing in longtime fans and new listeners alike. Robinella’s albums are available on all your favorite streaming services, and she announces her upcoming performances on her Facebook page.
Jackie Lee is a soulful country artist born and raised in Maryville who has made it all the way to the Grand Ole Opry stage. Lee was immersed in music from an early age, singing in church and learning instruments like drums, guitar and piano. His father, a professional musician, nurtured his passion, leading him to record in a studio at just six years old.
A standout at Alcoa High School, Lee helped his team win two state football championships, but music had a stronger pull. At 17, he left football behind and moved to Nashville to hone his craft.
Jackie’s debut single, “She Does,” released in 2014, showcased his rich vocals and garnered critical acclaim, marking him as a standout in the country music scene. His subsequent releases, including “Getting Over You,” reflect a blend of traditional country roots with modern influences, resonating with millions of listeners nationwide. You can find his music on all the major streaming platforms, but every now and then, you might just catch one of his songs on the radio.
Mike Cross is a veteran singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist born in Maryville and raised in Lenior, North Carolina. Over the past few decades, he has built a national following through his energetic performances, humorous songwriting and distinctive blend of folk, blues and country music. He calls his unique style “Appalachian Mountain Boogie Blues.”
Although he didn’t pick up an instrument until college, a spontaneous guitar lesson during his junior year at the University of North Carolina led him down a new path. He soon began writing songs and incorporating stories and poetry into his music. He’s appeared on national television and radio shows, including The Smothers Brothers CBS Special, NPR and the Dr. Demento Radio Show, where his 1973 song “The Scotsman” became a fan favorite and was once voted “Funniest Song Ever Written.”
Mike has released 13 albums and toured extensively, performing everywhere from intimate folk clubs to major venues like Boston’s Symphony Hall. You can stream the best of Mike Cross on Spotify and YouTube.
Wyatt Ellis is the Peaceful Side of the Smokies’ rising star. Just 15 years old, the Maryville native began playing mandolin during the pandemic and quickly attracted national attention for his talent and dedication. Under the guidance of bluegrass legends like Sierra Hull, Bobby Osborne and Mike Compton, Ellis developed a style rooted in tradition with a youthful twist.
In just a few short years, Wyatt has gone from local jam sessions at Rocky Branch Mountain Music to the Grand Ole Opry. His 2024 debut album, Happy Valley, topped Billboard’s bluegrass sales chart, with ten of its twelve tracks reaching the Top 10. Known for his clean, expressive playing, Ellis has been praised by peers for his command of melody and rhythm well beyond his years.
His momentum has only grown in 2025, with standout singles like “Winds of Rowan County,” a duet with Peter Rowan, and “Choo Choo Coming.” Ellis has also appeared on RFD-TV’s Bluegrass Ridge and NPR affiliates, and is a regular on the bluegrass festival circut, where his sets consistently draw enthusiastic crowds. His music is available on all major streaming platforms, and tour dates are posted on wyattellismusic.com. To learn more about Ellis and how he draws inspiration from the Peaceful Side, check out our exclusive interview with him.
Jack Greene (1930–2013) was a Maryville-born country legend whose deep voice and towering presence earned him the nickname “The Jolly Greene Giant.” A longtime member of the Grand Ole Opry and a three-time Grammy nominee, Greene rose to fame with his 1966 breakout hit, There Goes My Everything. The song spent seven weeks at No. 1 and earned him a sweep at the CMA awards, including Male Vocalist, Single, Album and Song of the Year.
Greene’s musical journey began when he started playing guitar at ten years old. As a teenager, he worked as a DJ at WGAP and performed regularly on the Tennessee Barn Dance. After stints with bands in Georgia and Nashville, Greene’s career took off when Ernest Tubb invited him to join the Texas Troubadours in 1962. Encouraged by Tubb to go solo, Greene launched a successful career that produced five No. 1 Billboard country hits. He was one of the most played artists of his era.
From heartfelt solo ballads like “All the Time and Statue of a Fool” to popular duets with Jeannie Seely, Greene’s smooth vocals and exceptional depth earned him a permanent place in the hearts of country fans. He continued performing into the 2000s, celebrating 40 years with the Opry in 2007. Though he passed away in 2013, Jack Greene’s legacy endures. Jack Greene Park, located in the heart of Maryville, is named in his memory. His full discography is available to listen to on all major streaming platforms, but you might even get lucky and find his albums at local record shops.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Beginning in 2024, Maryville College will return to the downtown area that shares its name for the first time in more than 150 years.
Established as the Southern and Western Theological Seminary in 1819, the College was a part of downtown Maryville until the completion of Anderson Hall, the oldest building on its present campus, in 1870. In early 2024, however, the Maryville College Downtown Center will open at 205 Court St., serving as both a learning lab and an embassy, of sorts, to the community in which the institution has long been invested.
“To many of you, this news is probably not a surprise, given our goal of being ‘of and for the region,’” MC President Dr. Bryan Coker wrote to faculty, staff and students recently. “As I have often stated, the fates of the College and downtown are inextricably linked; thus, I believe it’s important for us to have a substantive stake in the revitalization of downtown Maryville. I wholeheartedly believe that a stronger downtown means a stronger Maryville College, and vice versa.
“MC alumni often reminisce about downtown Homecoming parades as well as frequenting downtown businesses. However, the proliferation of strip malls and other venues ultimately drove retail and foot traffic away from Maryville’s downtown core. As the years progressed, increased traffic on Lamar Alexander Parkway created a division between the MC campus and downtown, despite the convenience of a pedestrian bridge.
“Fortunately, the tide seems to now be turning for downtown Maryville, thanks to forward-thinking investors who want to see the area thrive once again,” Coker added.
A downtown Maryville landmark, the building — opened in 1941 as J&K Grocery, the storefront of which faces East Church Avenue and extends over the space currently occupied by Tri-Hop Brewery — has undergone extensive renovations, Coker added, giving College leaders, who plan to lease the main/street level floor of the building, a blank slate. As a result, it will serve as a hub for the College’s newly created Hospitality and Regional Identity program of study, coordinated by incoming professor Dr. Angela Sebby and funded through major gifts earmarked specifically for that program.
Once completed, the MC Downtown Center, Coker said, will feature:
Two classrooms primarily for Hospitality and Regional Identity courses, but open for any other classes as available;
Offices for the program’s faculty;
A teaching/demonstration kitchen for the Restaurant at RT Lodge (one of the program’s vocational and financial partners) and other local dining partners, to offer cooking classes for the external community;
Brewing equipment and teaching space for the newly created Fermentation Sciences minor at MC, as well as a place to offer beer-brewing classes for the external community; and
A small Maryville College gift shop, where MC gear can be purchased.
“This Downtown Center will be the place where the College meets the community, and where the presence of students, faculty and staff contributes to the resurgence and vitality of downtown,” Coker said. “In turn, we believe students and employees will deeply benefit from the experience of learning and working in historic Downtown Maryville, gaining a greater appreciation for the power of ‘place’ in one’s experiences, which is a significant focus of the Hospitality and Regional Identity program.”
The center, Coker said, is another sign of the dual commitment to joint improvements between the College and the City of Maryville. Recently, city officials announced plans to improve the College Street Corridor, running from the pedestrian bridge linking campus over East Lamar Alexander Parkway to the center of downtown, including such improvements as an archway over the bridge entrance, refurbished sidewalks and lighting on College Street and a tartan-themed crosswalk that keeps with the Scots pride that’s an integral part of the MC image. In addition, Christy McDonald Slavick, executive director of strategic initiatives at MC, serves as the chairperson of the Downtown Maryville Association, further strengthening the bonds between the two entities.
“Private colleges must increasingly act in the public interest, and in the case of the MC Downtown Center, we are bringing our programs to the community, as well as playing an important role in historic preservation and revitalization,” Coker said. “In addition, ‘Place’ has a powerful role in educational experiences, and we look forward to our students learning and interacting in a historic downtown setting where an exciting revitalization is occurring. As we endeavor to be a college ‘of and for the region,’ the Downtown Center is a tangible manifestation of this important goal.”
Such an off-campus venture isn’t a first for MC, Coker pointed out: From 1969 to 1980, the College operated the Tremont Environmental Education Center — now known as the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont — under the supervision of the late Dr. Randolph Shields, a biology professor at the College for decades. In addition, Shields supervised the now-defunct Mid-Appalachian Field Biology Teaching and Research Center from 1967 to 1977, a joint research facility for the Mid-Appalachia College Council.
“The Downtown Center is just another example of the College connecting with the community, in the interest of student learning, as well as serving as a resource for the region,” Coker said. “It’s undoubtedly an audacious and exciting step for the College, and I am grateful for those who are supporting us in this endeavor.”
A new major will be available for Maryville College students this fall that will offer signature learning opportunities at RT Lodge and other distinctive dining, lodging and event establishments in the area.
Hospitality and Regional Identity is being added to the 2022-2023 College’s catalog following recommendation by the faculty and approval by the College’s Board of Directors last month. The addition brings the total number of programs of study and certifications available to undergraduates to 69. It follows the addition of an Environmental Science major in 2021 and, like Environmental Science, Hospitality and Regional Identity helps position MC as a college “of and for the region” by focusing on how location can influence and enhance the customer experience, as well as meeting a workforce need.
In making the announcement, MC President Dr. Bryan F. Coker said discussions about the major have taken place over several years, but pandemic-related increases in tourism and much evolution in the local industry, especially “high-end” opportunities, made the timing right for the new program in 2022.
“Local hospitality leaders were consulted about the industry’s current and future needs, and we learned of the need for skilled permanent employees who know hospitality and the larger field of management more generally, but who are also knowledgeable about – and appreciative of – the regional context,” Coker explained. “We know that sustainable management of natural and scenic resources and respectful curation of cultural heritage demand a broader range of skills and background knowledge than straightforward management of hospitality properties. With our liberal arts curriculum, we are confident that we can deliver a unique program that will prepare students for successful, interesting and meaningful careers.”
A major in Hospitality and Regional Identity will require 58 credit hours; a minor will require 18 credit hours. Four new courses have been developed that will focus on customer experience, marketing, management and operations and regional identity through food and beverage. Other required and elective courses will draw from current offerings in the Social Sciences, Humanities, Health Sciences and Outdoor Studies areas. The curriculum leans into Appalachian identity, with students having options to study Appalachian cultural and social history, food traditions, religion and the landforms, flora and fauna of the Great Smoky Mountains. Dr. Jenifer Greene, professor of management, will serve as coordinator of the program.
Donations pledged by industry partners are helping to fund the delivery of new courses, one new instructor position and promotion of the program to prospective students and their families.
According to the proposal approved by the faculty and Board, students who complete the Hospitality and Regional Identity curriculum will be able to: 1.) understand the operations of various components of the hospitality industry and how they relate to each other; 2) understand how to create an exceptional customer experience and how a specific place plays a role in this development; and 3) develop critical thinking skills, have knowledge in theoretical perspectives and methodological techniques, and gain experiential learning opportunities.
Opportunities with RT Lodge
For many future hospitality students, the “experiential learning opportunities” outlined in the program’s learning outcomes will come from RT Lodge, a restaurant, hotel and special event site located on campus and operated through a long-term lease by regional business leaders who are very supportive of the College.
Since it opened in 1998, RT Lodge has been an employer for scores of MC students and graduates, and with the launch of the Hospitality and Regional Identity major, both parties expect to see more students put their academic pursuits into practice there.
“Through our partnership with RT Lodge, we can provide students with a valuable four-year ‘hands-on’ experience that will help equip them with knowledge of local Appalachian food and culture – a contribution to the place-based education, which will be a distinctive of aspect of our program,” Coker said.
Beth McCabe Holman, president of RT Lodge, said she and her team were “thrilled” about the new major and proud to partner with the College on its growth and development.
“The College is a valuable resource to RT Lodge, and it is a privilege to interact with MC students in a working hospitality environment every day,” she added. “What an exciting time for Maryville College and our community!”
The education and experiences offered through a hospitality major can be translated into many areas beyond hotels and restaurants, said Gary Doyle, RT Lodge’s general manager.
“They can be applied to all interpersonal aspects of occupations in business, medicine, religion, sports, arts and education,” he said. “Pairing those with the science of positive regional identity in a broader sense of hospitality would seem a natural field of study for any future city planner, chamber of commerce member or community development professional, among other diverse professions.”
In addition to RT Lodge, students enrolled in the new major may soon be able to gain real-world experience by helping to operate the House in the Woods, a 105-year-old home located in the College Woods that is slated for renovation and eventual use as a College guest house.
Tourism is strong, trending up
Tourism is Tennessee’s second largest industry by employment. As a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Blount County ranked eighth among Tennessee’s 95 counties in visitor expenditures at $337 million in 2020, according to a report issued by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Jobs related to hospitality and tourism in the county have grown from just under 3,000 to more than 4,000 over the last seven years, according to Kim Mitchell, Blount Partnership director of tourism.
“Blount County remains a top destination for travelers domestically and internationally for its tremendous outdoor assets, scenic beauty, music, food, family fun, history, culture and destination sites the Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” she said. “All give us an edge against other areas.”
Bryan Daniels, Blount Partnership president/CEO, thanked Coker for leading efforts to get the Hospitality and Regional Identity major instituted, agreeing that it is much needed for the area’s economic growth and development.
“The experiences gained in this major are vital to tourism by the fact that future employees will be equipped with knowledge and skills needed to become leaders in the hospitality industry,” he said. “Programs like this are crucial when it comes to continuing to educate people on the many assets of the region while offering insight into the administrative, operational and commercial activities that make any business a success.”
With an abundance of new places to dine, shop and play, downtown Maryville is undergoing a revival. Behind the scenes, city archivist Mark Bennett is bringing its history back to life.
Bennett, a Maryville native, stepped into his role about four years ago. Before that, he worked in genealogy, helping people trace their family trees. “I’ve always been interested in the past ever since I was a child,” he said. “I used to visit nursing homes and listen to the residents tell their stories. I was fascinated by them, and eventually I started trying to document the history.”
Right now, his biggest project is documenting the history of downtown Maryville. “I’ve come across some very interesting things—especially documenting when the buildings were constructed,” he said. “Some of those buildings didn’t have a written history at all.”
He’s been unofficially naming some of those buildings after the people who had them built. “You know where the new Raven’s Steakhouse is?” he said. “I wrote the history of that building. One of the former mayors, David Franklin Young (1873-1949), had it constructed around 1939.” He calls it the Dave Young building.
That research led to one of his favorite discoveries—the exact location of William Bennett Scott Sr.’s printing press. Scott, who served as Maryville’s first Black mayor in 1869, also published a local newspaper, The Maryville Republican. “It was on the eastern half of where Raven’s Steakhouse is located,” Bennett said. “On the western part of that lot, his son, William Bennett Scott Jr., had a small residence.”
Since taking the archivist role, Bennett has analyzed nearly every downtown deed. “That’s not a simple process,” he said. “I’ve had to work with some title attorneys. But when I do something, I’m gonna get it right.”
He’s found other traces of early Black-owned businesses downtown. “There’s a gap between Bill Cox and The Roost,” he said. “In the late 1800s, there were two small buildings there. On the eastern part of the lot, Charles Wallace had a barbershop, and on the western part, Thomas Lillard had a confectionary.”
Lillard served as an alderman—what’s now called city council—in Maryville. “There was a school named after him or his son across the street from the back of St. Paul A.M.E. Church,” Bennett said. “He was involved with education in the early 1900s.”
His research has also uncovered stories of early immigration. “We had a Joseph Arbeely, the first person ever to immigrate here from Syria,” he said. “That would’ve been in 1878. His family only lived here a few years, but they were very well accepted. His wife, Mary, is buried up at New Providence Presbyterian Cemetery, and one side of her tombstone is written in Arabic.”
Bennett said the oldest building in the original downtown—between Cates Street and Norwood—was built in 1885. “We don’t have any buildings downtown that were constructed before the Civil War,” he said. “None of them have lasted.”
“I found this old picture taken about 1900 of downtown Maryville. This picture is taken in the direction looking west and has the old courthouse (now former Blount Memorial Financial Center) that was burned in 1906 in it and the farthest building seen is where J. Danforth is now. The Racket store is where Brooke Nix is now. The gap between the courthouse and the Racket store was part of the courthouse square.”
He also traced the first location of The Daily Times. “That would’ve been where Bill Cox is, on the eastern corner,” he said. “There was a separate building there, and it was in that building, but that building perished in the 1906 courthouse fire.”
Bennett said some of the Quakers who came from Indiana and Ohio helped rebuild downtown after the fire. “Some of the Quakers lived near where Maryville High School is,” he said. “Some near where Miller Funeral Home is, and some close to where the Maryville Municipal Building is. There were others who came down from Indiana and Ohio, but they weren’t necessarily Quakers. The founder of The Daily Times, A.J. Neff, came from Indiana.”
He works from many sources—Sanborn fire insurance maps, newspaper microfilm, tax records, deeds and lease records—to build a complete picture. “Our earliest Sanborn map is from 1887, and the latest is around 1945,” he said. “I want a continuous history of downtown.”
That process has helped him correct long-accepted stories. “Some of the history that had already been done, I’ve been able to go back and correct some inaccuracies,” he said. “Some stories have been based off of lore, but when you get into the documentation, it can be contradictory.”
He’s also tracked downtown’s visual record. “I’ve been able to better date pictures now with this analysis,” he said. “There were some pictures that people said were taken earlier than I was able to place them, and I was able to put a more accurate timeframe on them.”
Bennett said he keeps up with what’s happening downtown because, as he puts it, “today’s events are tomorrow’s history.”
He often works with local business owners who want to know more about their buildings. “Some people will ask me the history of their houses, too,” he said. “It’s been tedious, but very rewarding.”
Recent investment has brought fresh life to downtown’s older buildings. “It’s called a renaissance right now,” Bennett said.
He hopes to share his research through guided walking tours next year. “I’d like to tell what used to be on Broadway,” he said. “There were horse livery stables, the first car garages and dealerships, and several murders downtown…It’s interesting to see the transition and how things have evolved over time.”
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Recent Comments