A Great Way to Travel: See the Smokies on Horseback

One of the great things about being on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies is just how much the animals appreciate the peace and quiet, too. That’s one reason there are so many great stables and outfitters that can get you riding in Blount County: horses like it here. Check out the different options and…

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History Buffs Love Learning the History of the Smokies at Cades Cove

Cades Cove is one of the most visited parts of America’s most visited national park, but there’s more going on in these Tennessee woods than breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors to the Cove with a taste for history will get more than their fair share when they experience the famous Cades Cove loop for themselves. How…

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Beat the Heat with an Ice Cream Treat; Check Out Blount County's Ice Cream Shops

Summers in Blount County are long and hot, and there’s no better way to take a break from the heat than to step on out and treat yourself to something cold and frosty. There are plenty of places to choose from in Blount County; here are a few worth checking out! Scoops & Slices Alcoa’s…

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

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,…

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Townsend's Romantic Richmont Inn Provides Stunning Views of the Smokies

It’s not obvious at first glance, but the stunning view the Richmont Inn offers is right there in the name. That’s right! The “Richmont” in Richmont Inn refers to Rich Mountain, which is the majestic, lush, and endlessly scenic mountain that the Inn overlooks. Read on to find out more about this Appalachian treasure! A…

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Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing is a Great Way to Beat the Summer Heat

In the heat of the summer months, there’s no better way to cool off than river tubing in Townsend, at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountain National Park The next question, though, is a little harder to answer. What are you going to do about the heat? Give Tubing a Try! Tubing? Yes, tubing! You…

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Enjoy a Romantic Weekend on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies

Blount County is the Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is one of the most spectacular national parks in the United States. Throughout the county, you will find cozy cabins, romantic lodges, and magnificent hotels for your stay. No matter how you look at it, Blount County makes the perfect place for…

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Is Wine Your Thing? Indulge in a Visit to Blue Goose Vineyards

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…

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

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

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…

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A Stop for the Brave of Heart: Dark Island Swinging Bridge

If you like to seek out the more unusual places to visit — the stranger sights to see — then you need to check out the Dark Island Swinging Bridge in Townsend, TN. While you are spending time in the area, you have to take a few minutes out of your day to discover this…

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Enjoy a Picnic Lunch at Spruce Flats Falls

Looking for a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch while you are in the Townsend, TN area? The 1.9-mile hike to the Spruce Flats Falls may be just what you are looking for. The trail is moderate and may be challenging for smaller children, but older kids and adults should have no problem. Along…

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