The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival

Are you looking for a little spice in your life? Have you been missing that warm comfort from home? No worries, we have reds, oranges, and yellows ready to offer an ocular hug. Maybe you are over this insanely hot summer and need to take a refreshing break and find an ethereal sense of peace.…

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Peaceful Side Spotlight | Millennium Manor Castle

If you have ever dreamed of life in a fairytale, we have an awesome treasure for you. Alcoa is the home of a true Roman architecturally inspired castle called Millennium Manor Castle. It is truly an amazing feat of dedication, faith, and an impressive amount of hard work. Humble Beginnings The original castle, built by…

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Vintage Car Show

Fans of vintage automobiles can view a special collection of classic cars at the Autos Through the Ages Car Show at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center (123 Cromwell Dr., Townsend) on July 15 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.  The car show is free with admission to the museum being $5. Presented by the…

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Beer Lovers Unite at Maryville – Hops in the Hills

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…

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What to Know About Snakes in the Smokies

We have put together info and images to help you understand what you need to know about snakes in the Smokies. But the biggest takeaway from this post is that there’s no need to let your fear of snakes keep you from enjoying your time in the Smokies. What Species of Snakes are in the…

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Our Summer Playlist | This Summer’s Peaceful Side To-Do List

We’ve assembled the perfect Peaceful Side Playlist for your Summer trip to the Smokies. Check out our Summer To-Do list full of some of our favorite spots, events, and activities happening this summer in Blount County.  “Hot Fun In The Summertime” by Sly & The Family Stone (1969) Hiking the Smokies There are over 900…

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Maryville College announces new Downtown Center hub for hospitality

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,…

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Diamondjack Opens New Location at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Diamondjack at Little Arrow, a new dining destination featuring approachable, southern novelties executed at a high level, is now open at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort in Townsend. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Located at 118 Stables Drive in Townsend, Diamondjack at Little Arrow offers public dine-in and…

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Wildflowers of the Smokies

Anyone from this area knows that Spring is a vibrant and unique reminder of life and beauty. Not only has the frost given up its last gesture for the year, but the Wildflowers of the Smokies are finding their voices and demanding acknowledgment. Our friends and photographers, Randy Ratliff and Laura Matthews, have provided many of…

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Dancing Bear Lodge Announces Bluegrass Concerts

Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro announces plans for two outdoor concert events this spring and summer. Concert attendees will enjoy live bluegrass music on Dancing Bear Lodge’s outdoor lawn while enjoying the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. On Thursday, April 27th, celebrated American mandolinist and 3-time Grammy award-winner, Sam Bush, and his Band…

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Tips on Taking the Best Travel Photos

You always want to remember your vacation on the Peaceful Side of the Great Smoky Mountains. The Smokies are one of the most beautiful places in the world, so there will be no shortage of photo opportunities during your stay. We put together expert advice to ensure you take the best travel photos on your…

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Blount County Guide to Antiquing

Blount County, located on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, is known for its connection with nature, historical landmarks, and antique shops. It is home to many antique stores and markets that offer various antiques and collectibles, including furniture, pottery, glassware, books, and much more. Many of these stores are located in historic downtown areas,…

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