From the Peaceful Side of the Smokies
Written by: Emily Huffstetler Did you know that the Smokies have inspired a variety of films and shows? From dramas and holiday tales to documentaries, here are 10 picks for your next movie night. A Walk in the Spring Rain Released in 1970, A Walk in the Spring Rain tells the story of Libby Meredith…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler The Peaceful Side of the Smokies is home to a vibrant, growing art scene. From galleries to makers markets and hands-on studios, here are some of the best places to experience local creativity. Gracehill Fine Arts & Basketry After two decades at the helm of Gracehill Bed and Breakfast, Kathy Janke…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler In Maryville, Tennessee, trying something new doesn’t have to mean taking on a big commitment. You don’t need to train for a marathon, sign up for a six-month course or spend a fortune on gear. Around here, a fresh experience might look like biking a new trail, rolling up to a…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler The Peaceful Side of the Smokies is home to three of Tennessee’s top public school systems and two distinguished private institutions, but excellence here extends far beyond the classroom. This fall, choose from a variety of fun, active and educational afterschool programs for your child or teen. Mountain Challenge – Camp…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler Scouting out vegetarian options in the American South can feel like an Olympic sport. Even a simple bowl of grits might hide sausage, and house salads often come topped with bacon by default. When you’re on a family vacation, the last thing you want is to be that person holding up…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler Looking for a unique way to celebrate Independence Day this year? Escape the usual hustle and bustle and enjoy a serene July 4th on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Here, you can immerse yourself in family-friendly festivities, breathtaking views and local flavors. Watch Fireworks Every year, the City of Townsend…
On the Peaceful Side, a heat wave doesn’t have to mean cancelled plans. There’s plenty of ways to keep cool—inside, on the water and even underground. Here are our favorites for beating the summer heat. Savor a Frozen Treat The Capitol Theatre Ice Cream Parlor is a local favorite for cooling off with a cone…
Downtown Maryville will be buzzing with energy this weekend (June 20–21) as it hosts two exciting events celebrating the start of summer in East Tennessee. The festivities kick off with Summer on Broadway, a two-day celebration featuring live music, local vendors, food trucks, a classic car show and the always-popular Smoky Mountain Dock Dogs competitions. On…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler This weekend, the Townsend Mercantile celebrates its second anniversary, carrying on a name once tied to the town’s early logging days. While the shop isn’t connected to the original company store that served the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company more than a century ago, both have shared a similar purpose:…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler The Great Smoky Mountains have a way of leaving you speechless—where words fall short, the landscape speaks for itself. Luckily, a few people have managed to capture its magic. From Franklin D. Roosevelt to Dolly Parton, here are some of our favorite quotes about the Smokies. Dolly Parton, in Her Own…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler As you drive into the Smokies from Townsend, the Peaceful Side, roll down your windows and listen. That sound? It’s the Little River, running right alongside you. Centuries ago, these waters sustained the Cherokee people. In the early 20th century, the river’s path became the route for the Little River Railroad, which…
Written by: Emily Huffstetler As temperatures climb in the region, taking a dip in the Tennessee River or pool seems like the perfect way to cool off. These are our favorite places to swim on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Townsend Campgrounds with a Pool If you’re planning a weekend getaway in the Smokies,…
