From the Peaceful Side of the Smokies
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,…
Townsend has a unique way of bringing the history of The Great Smoky Mountains in current and relevant ways to everyone who visits. To add to this custom of keeping our traditions alive comes a welcomed new addition: Company Distilling & their Tasting Experience. Opened July 8, 2022, their Townsend tasting room is set along…
When people think of hiking in the Smoky Mountains, the most popular times of year are generally Spring through Fall. But the Smoky Mountain National Park is open year-round, and winter brings a unique beauty. We’ve put together some of the best reasons you need to get out and enjoy the Smokies this time of…
For the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Company Distilling and the historic Tennessee Theatre will work towards a shared vision of celebrating Tennessee’s rich heritage in distilling, arts, and history. “We couldn’t be more excited about the partnership with Company Distilling. With their team having deep roots in Tennessee, a passion for bringing people together, and…
It is Christmastime in the Smokies, and this year, the Peaceful Side has a new holiday experience for the whole family. Smoky Mountain Lights is a drive-thru light show located at the Townsend Visitor Center. This Christmas light display embraces all things Smoky Mountain so that you can expect bears and camping and bigfoot; oh…
We’ve finally made it to that much-awaited time of year when the weather cools down and the fall foliage hits its climactic changes. Peak leaf peeping season is in full effect. The Smoky Mountains are bursting into wondrous red, orange and yellow hues – a must-see for locals and visitors alike. Best Times to See…
With cooler temperatures and the emergence of vibrant red and orange hues, fall is upon us, which means camping season is here. Bundle up! These are the top places to camp in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Make it a family vacation.Big Meadow Family Campground (RV only)It’s no surprise the National Association of RV…
Any East Tennessee history buff can tell you plenty about the long history we have with Grains & Grits, liquor and bootleg in this neck of the woods. Corn whiskey dates back as far as the early settlers of the Appalachian foothills. Moonshining, named from the practice of distilling under the moonlight to avoid unwanted…
Bubba Daniel is a unique and authentic chainsaw artist creating something special in Townsend, TN. You can currently find him and many of his creations on the plot of land behind Cades Cove Jeep Outpost and beside Bigfoot Popcorn. Although presently a work in progress, Bubba has big dreams for the property. He envisions an…
As a gateway to the Smoky Mountains, Blount County ranked eighth among Tennessee’s 95 counties in visitor expenditures at $476.68 million, a 41-percent increase from $337.01 million in 2020, according to the Economic Impact of Travel on Tennessee Counties report issued by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Gov. Bill Lee. Blount County is…
Famous for its expansive, colorful, and lush landscaping, Anakeesta is enhancing its commitment to being stewards of the living earth by recently receiving an arboretum accreditation for Vista Gardens. The area is an incredible mountaintop garden retreat in the smoky mountains. The mission of the Anakeesta Arboretum is to provide an experiential sensory garden that…
It is #InternationalBeerDay, and in celebration, we put together highlights from some of our favorite watering holes on the Peaceful Side. We’ve also listed some of the local Maryville breweries so you know what to look for while visiting. Townsend Abbey Address: 7765 River Rd., Townsend, TN 37882 Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm (Thurs-Sun) Townsend Abbey…
