Tag: Smoky Mountain Tourism

Date Ideas on the Peaceful Side

Posted on July 16, 2024 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

On the Peaceful Side, date night doesn’t have to be same ol’, same ol’. And it doesn’t just have to be for singles. Consider these ideas when you and your significant other want to spend quality time together.

Active Adventurers – Townsend

Start the morning off exploring Tuckaleechee Caverns, the highest-rated cavern of the Eastern United States. Along the 1.25-mile tour, there are millions of formations and a 210-foot waterfall to admire. At the end, you’ll experience total darkness in a room big enough to fit a football stadium.

Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants in Townsend, including Peaceful Side Social, Little River Pub and Deli, and The Abbey.

Then, put on your water shoes and head to River Rat, the highest-rated Tubing Outpost in Tennessee. Outpost A, a calmer, two-hour route, features a private rock jump and swimming holes. Meanwhile, Outpost B offers an hour-long, heart-pumping adventure.

You can tube once, or you can go until closing with a Day Tubing Pass. Pro Tip: If you book a day or more in advance, you’ll receive a $5 discount per person.

If you’re not looking to spend money, consider hiking instead. These are a few of our top picks, ranging from easy to strenuous:

All of these hikes have rewarding scenery, ranging from waterfalls to panoramic mountain views. To beat the summer heat (and the crowd), start your trek earlier in the morning, and be sure to bring plenty of water.

Classic Romantics – Downtown Maryville

Keep things simple and sweet. Surprise your date with flowers from a local florist, like Hartman’s Flowers and Gifts or Coulter Florist & Greenhouses. Then, go out for a romantic dinner in Downtown Maryville. Bella, Diamondjack and The Walnut Kitchen are some of our favorites.

Early Birds – Maryville

Get an early start to the weekend at the Maryville Farmers’ Market, which operates on Saturday mornings from April to November. You can grab coffee, sweet treats, produce, flowers—whatever your heart’s desire.

Once the two of you are done shopping, mosey on over to Bella, Southern Grace Coffee or Vienna Coffee House for a hearty southern brunch. Then, take a leisurely stroll on the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway or peruse shops downtown. We love Dandy Lions Gifts, J. Danforth Mercantile, Neighborly Books and Pinkie Mistry Art.

History Buffs – Townsend

If you’re looking for a weekday adventure with your sweetheart, embark on a 3.5-hour Cades Cove Heritage Tour. Enjoy a break from driving in a comfortable ADA-compliant bus, while experienced guides reveal the history of Cades Cove and point out wildlife.

Townsend has a variety of museums to explore any day of the week. Dive into East Tennessean history at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, where you and your loved one can experience live demonstrations and tour 17 preserved Appalachian structures.

Or head down the road to the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum, which preserves the heritage of what was once one of the largest commercial logging operations in southern Appalachia. This museum is free to visit, although donations are appreciated.

Retro Lovers – Maryville

Take a blast to the past at a drive-in movie. But first, you’ll want to get some snacks.

Start your evening off with sweet treats at the Capitol Theatre in Downtown Maryville. There are a variety of movie-themed sundaes, floats, candies and bottled drinks to choose from. The two of you can enjoy ice cream there and pick something else to take with you.

Then, take a short drive to Bigfoot Popcorn. There are unique flavors, like Bigfoot Poop and banana pudding, as well as traditional ones like cheddar and caramel.

Before dusk, make your way to the Parkway Drive-In off East Lamar Alexander Parkway. If you get there early enough, you’ll be able to pick a prime parking spot. You can stick around for both movies or call it a night after the first. Either way, it only costs $10 per adult.

Are you or your loved one planning a date on the Peaceful Side? We’d love to hear how it goes. Be sure to tag us on social media (@peacefulsmokies).

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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.

December Happenings on the Peaceful Side 

Posted on November 26, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

From tree lightings and makers markets to concerts, fun runs and cozy workshops, December on the Peaceful Side is full of festive fun. Here’s a preview of what’s happening this month, with a late November event to kick things off. 

November 29 – City of Maryville Tree Lighting 

Wrap up the downtown holiday market with the City of Maryville tree lighting at the Maryville Municipal Parking Garage on Broadway. The tree will be lit at approximately 5:30 p.m.

December 1 – City of Alcoa Tree Lighting 

Celebrate the lighting of the City of Alcoa Christmas tree at the pedestrian bridge at the Springbrook Corporate Center in Alcoa at 6:15 p.m. Following the ceremony, enjoy special music, refreshments and a visit with Santa Claus. 

December 2 – “A Maryville Christmas” 

Photo: Maryville College

The annual “A Maryville Christmas” concert begins at 7 p.m. in the Ronald and Lynda Nutt Theatre at the Clayton Center for the Arts. The evening features the Maryville College Concert Choir performing A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, sing-along selections with the Orchestra at Maryville College, the Maryville College Community Chorus, and chamber ensembles Off Kilter, Lads and Lassies sharing beloved holiday classics. 

December 4 – Blount County Festival of Trees 

The Blount County Courthouse lawn in Downtown Maryville will be illuminated by live Christmas trees of all sizes, colors and themes, with the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. The opening celebration includes entertainment, refreshments and Santa Claus, and the trees remain on display throughout the month for visitors to walk through or drive by and enjoy. 

December 4–6 – Santa Mouse Christmas House 

Photo: Santa Mouse Christmas House

Presented by the Blount County Arts & Crafts Guild, the Santa Mouse Christmas House fills Dotson Memorial Baptists Church in Maryville (814 Dotson Memorial Rd) with handmade arts and crafts. Shop unique gifts and decor from local artisans throughout this three-day holiday event. 

December 5 – ’Tis the Saison! 

Photo: Peaceful Side Brewery

Join Peaceful Side Brewery in Maryville from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for an evening of education and tasting. Learn about the history of farmhouse brewing and taste a curated selection of Belgian and American saisons, each paired with the story behind the brewery that created it. 

December 5–6 – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 

Broadway Center for the Arts presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a heartwarming holiday tradition filled with laughter and the true meaning of Christmas. Performances are Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., featuring a talented cast from across East Tennessee. 

December 6 – H.O.M.E. for the Holidays 

H.O.M.E. (Hall-Oldfield-Maryville Empowerment) and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center in Alcoa partner for this annual community celebration to kick off the Christmas season, with the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Enjoy family fun and light refreshments at 209 E Franklin Street. 

December 6 – The Maryville Makers Market Christmas Event 

Photo: Maryville Makers Market

Head to Maryville College campus from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Maryville Makers Market Christmas Event. Browse more than 100 makers, and enjoy live music, demonstrations, kids’ activities and food vendors.  

December 6 – Story Time with Santa 

Bring the family to Neighborly Books in Downtown Maryville at 11 a.m. for story time with everyone’s favorite jolly fellow. 

December 12 & 13 – The Nutcracker 

Photo: Appalachian Ballet Company

The Appalachian Ballet Company and the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra present The Nutcracker, bringing this beloved holiday classic to life at the Clayton Center for the Arts over two days. Act One features a glittering holiday party and snowy scene, while Act Two transports audiences to the Land of the Sweets with the Sugarplum Fairy, Cavalier and more. 

December 7 – Reindeer Run 5K Road Race & 1-Mile Fun Run 

The final leg of the Healthy Blount Triple Crown of Running features a 5K road race and 1-mile Fun Run/Walk from 2 to 4 p.m. Awards are given to Overall and Masters winners, the top three in each age division and the best male and female Christmas costumes. All Fun Run participants receive a keepsake, and a portion of proceeds benefits the Empty Pantry Fund. 

December 7 – Townsend Christmas Parade 

Join the community for the Townsend Christmas Parade from 2 to 4 p.m. See local floats and bands, as well as Santa Claus himself.

December 8–13 – A Claus to Celebrate 

Photo: Louisville Mercantile

Louisville Mercantile kicks off a week of holiday fun, running December 8-13. Each day features a new special, with a highlight Sip & Shop event on Thursday, December 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. 

December 9 – Santa Calls for Ages 3–6 

Children ages 3–6 in Blount County can receive a very special phone call from Santa Claus between 5 and 7 p.m. Thaks to volunteers from the Maryville-Alcoa Civitan Club, Santa will ring directly from the North Pole for this free program. The deadline to register is December 8. 

December 13 – Christmas Market at Southern Grace Coffee Co. 

Southern Grace Coffee Co. Hosts its annual Christmas Market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., packed with local vendors, hot coffee and cocoa, baked goods (including dairy-free and gluten-free options), boutique clothing, handcrafted decor and gifts.   

December Weekends – Christmas in the Village 

Photo: Christmas in the Village

Experience a taste of Appalachian Christmas traditions at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center’s Christmas in the Village festivities. Enjoy living history demonstrations, evening tours of historic structures and warm refreshments during select weekend evenings (12/5–12/6, 12/12–12/13 and 12/19–12/20) from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

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. 

Diamondjack Opens New Location at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Posted on April 24, 2023 by - Uncategorized

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 takeout options for guests with parking available at their respective sites or accommodation. Visitors not staying at the resort can park along Stables Drive. With a maximum capacity of 16 people, guests can expect an intimate and personalized dining experience.

Little Arrow, an idyllic resort nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, is excited to partner with Diamondjack and offer a new amenity to its guests and the community. “Little Arrow is thrilled to partner with the sophisticated folks at Diamondjack by offering this new amenity and partnership for our guests and community to be able to enjoy,” said Cassie Halley, Little Arrow’s COO and CMO. “The future looks bright…and delicious! We’re just getting started and can’t wait to expand as we grow.”

Diamondjack is equally excited about the partnership with Little Arrow and the opportunity to become part of the Townsend community. Rachel Talley, the owner of Diamondjack said, “Diamondjack can’t wait to be a part of the Townsend community in the unique environment that Little Arrow provides.”

Dig Into Maryville's Mouth-Watering BBQ at Full Service BBQ

Posted on April 10, 2014 by - Blog, Dining

When strolling through Maryville, passersby may notice a large smoker on the side of the road near downtown. That smoker belongs to Full Service BBQ, a locally-owned outdoor barbecue joint nestled in the same lot on South Washington Street that’s been around since 2007. If you’re looking for the Screen Shot 2014-04-10 at 4.13.47 PMperfect meal to pick up on your way to Cades Cove, or just to stop and relax after a long day of driving, then look no further. From colorful chalk for the little ones to play with, to the corn hole sets and multiple HD TV screens, Full Service BBQ has something to entertain every member of your group.
The food is pretty legendary as well. We suggest stocking up on the delicious side items (we were still dreaming of Yo’ Mama’s Mac & Cheese days later) and, dare we say, the best sweet tea in Maryville! Whether your group is craving ribs, Screen Shot 2014-04-10 at 4.14.23 PMpulled pork or the unique Hawg Dawg (beer boiled hot dog topped with BBQ pork), the entire menu will keep you coming back for more. Oh, and don’t even think about skipping the banana pudding (if you’re too full, it packages nicely in a to-go container).
Full Service BBQ also offers family packs for up to 25 people, or catering services for larger groups. Check out their website here and then “like” them on Facebook to receive exclusive deals and keep up with their daily specials. Screen Shot 2014-04-10 at 4.14.10 PMTrust us, this is one local spot you won’t want to miss during your trip to The Peaceful Side!
Full Service BBQ is located at 113 South Washington Street, Maryville, TN 37804 and are open daily from 11am – 9pm. For more info, call them at (865) 981-4414.

Discover Fairy Villages and the Troll Bridge in the Smokies

Posted on January 24, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

The Smokies are home to wonders that feel magical—synchronous fireflies, a rainbow waterfall and bioluminescent mushrooms, to name a few. Take a walk on the Peaceful Side and discover fairy villages and a troll bridge nestled in the woods, where fairytales and reality meet.

Fairy Villages in The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum 

The Townsend River Walk & Arboretum, nestled between the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway and the Little River, has several enchanting points of interest, including two fairy villages. Maintained by visiting children, these villages spark creativity and invite young imaginations to flourish. 

The villages are part of the Children’s Discovery Garden, a lively space filled with activities like a mud pie kitchen, a seesaw, a wooden tent and a sandbox. 

As you stroll along the trail, you’ll discover whimsical artwork by local artisans, including wood carvings of spirits and animals, as well as stones decorated with bird paintings. If you look closely, you’ll also spot a tree embracing a road sign and a cave tucked away in the woods. 

This hidden gem is free to explore and wheelchair accessible at the north end. Visit the Townsend River Walk & Arboretum website for a preview of what’s in bloom throughout the year. 

The Troll Bridge in Elkmont 

Elkmont, originally a hunting camp, was transformed into a secluded mountain retreat for wealthy locals in the early 1900s. Over time, it became a focal point in the efforts that led to the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  

While many of the structures have been torn down, a few remain, including the “Troll Bridge”. Tucked away from regular foot traffic, this moss-covered stone bridge looks like something straight out of a fairytale. 

To reach the Elkmont Troll Bridge, set off on the Little River Trail. About 100 feet in, you’ll see a small side trail that leads to the bridge. Just follow the stone walls, and you’ll soon reach your destination. 

Have you found something magical on the Peaceful Side? Share your photos with us on social media (@peacefulsmokies).   

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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.

Do You Need a Car to Visit Townsend and the Peaceful Side?  

Posted on June 12, 2026 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

For most trips to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, a car is the easiest way to get between Townsend, Maryville, Walland and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

You can visit without renting a car in some cases. Downtown Maryville has walkable areas, and parts of Townsend are easy to explore on foot or by bike once you are there. Still, this is not a big-city destination with frequent public transit or guaranteed rideshare availability. 

Here’s what to know about getting around. 

Flying into McGhee Tyson Airport 

The closest airport to the Peaceful Side is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), located in Alcoa. 

Ground transportation options at TYS include rental cars, rideshare, taxis, charter services and some hotel shuttles. The airport recommends making transportation reservations in advance. 

TYS does not offer an off-property shuttle service. If you’re staying outside the airport area, especially in Townsend or Walland, arrange transportation before arrival. 

Rental Cars at TYS 

Rental car counters are located on the lower level of the airport terminal near baggage claim. TYS lists Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Dollar and Payless as rental car options. 

For most visitors, this is the most practical choice. A rental car gives you flexibility for everyday stops like getting to your lodging, picking up groceries, going out to eat and driving into the national park. 

Rental car rates vary by date, vehicle type and availability. Reserve early for holidays, festivals, summer travel and peak fall color season. 

Uber and Lyft

Uber and Lyft operate at TYS. The rideshare pickup area is outside on the lower level of the terminal. 

Rideshare can work well for airport transfers, especially to Maryville or Alcoa. For longer routes to Townsend or Walland, check availability in the app before relying on it. TYS notes that Uber and Lyft may not be available during off-peak hours, so it’s best to have a backup plan. 

Taxis

TYS lists taxi companies licensed to do business at the airport. The taxi pickup area is outside on the north side of the terminal and accessible from baggage claim. 

A taxi can make sense for a short transfer, especially between the airport and Maryville. For longer routes to Townsend or Walland, call ahead to confirm availability, pricing, luggage space and return-trip options. 

Private Car Services and Charters 

Private transportation may be a good option for weddings, retreats, group trips or resort stays. TYS maintains a current list of taxi and charter companies licensed to serve the airport, so check their transportation page before booking. 

If you’re staying at Blackberry Farm or Blackberry Mountain in Walland, start with the property’s concierge team. They can help you understand your transfer options. If you plan to explore beyond the property, a rental car will give you the most flexibility. 

Hotel Shuttles

Some nearby airport hotels offer shuttle service to and from TYS. Coordinate with your hotel in advance, especially if you’re arriving early in the morning or late at night. 

Don’t assume a shuttle will take you to Townsend, Walland or Great Smoky Mountains National Park unless your hotel specifically confirms that service. 

Getting Around Maryville

Maryville is the easiest Peaceful Side town to enjoy without a car, especially if you stay downtown or in Maryville’s new Greenway Village. From there, restaurants, shops and parks are all within walking distance. 

That said, a car is still helpful for most trips, especially if you plan to visit nearby towns. 

Getting Around Townsend

Townsend is more spread out, so most visitors will want a car. This is especially true if you plan to drive to Cades Cove, enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park or stay somewhere outside the main corridor. 

Walking or biking can work well in the right location. The Townsend Historical Trail runs along both sides of US 321/Lamar Alexander Parkway for 4.5 miles each way, totaling 9 miles. If you stay near the trail, you may be able to reach nearby restaurants, shops and river outfitters without driving. 

Getting Around Walland

Walland is more rural, so plan transportation before you arrive. 

For resort stays, start with the property’s concierge team. For cabins, vacation rentals or plans that include restaurants, park visits or day trips, a rental car is usually the best option. 

Getting Around Great Smoky Mountains National Park 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not charge an entrance fee, but it does require a parking tag for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes. Daily, weekly and annual tags are available, and each tag is valid for a single vehicle. 

If you’re renting a car, you may need to wait until you have the vehicle’s license plate number before buying your parking tag. Parking tags must be physically displayed in the vehicle, and purchasing one does not guarantee a parking spot. 

Transportation matters most if you plan to visit Cades Cove. For most visitors, driving is the simplest option. If you do not want to drive the loop yourself, Cades Cove Heritage Tours through the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend offers guided public and private bus tours. 

Cades Cove also has seasonal vehicle-free days when the loop is closed to motor vehicles and open to cyclists and pedestrians. Check the current National Park Service schedule before planning your ride. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are permitted, and all bikes must follow the posted speed limit. 

Before driving into the park, check current road, trail and facility conditions. Weather, maintenance and temporary closures can affect your route. 

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots in Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a Maryville College graduate and writer for the Greater Smokies region. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.

Downtown Maryville Alliance Advances to Public Voting Phase for Levitt AMP Music Series Grant

Posted on September 4, 2025 by - Uncategorized

Levitt Music Series vote

The Downtown Maryville Alliance in partnership with the City of Maryville, the Blount Partnership and the Clayton Center for the Arts is proud to announce its advancement to the public voting phase for the prestigious Levitt AMP Music Series Grant, a multi-year funding opportunity that could bring a free, outdoor concert series to Maryville beginning in 2026.

This initiative is made possible through a strategic partnership between the Levitt Foundation, a national leader in creative placemaking and community-building through music, and the Tennessee Entertainment Commission, with additional support from the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

The Levitt AMP Music Series Grant provides up to $120,000 over three years to selected Tennessee-based nonprofits to produce a vibrant, inclusive concert series featuring professional musicians across diverse genres. The program is designed to activate underutilized public spaces and foster community engagement through the power of live music. If selected, Maryville would join a network of cities across the country hosting up to 180 free concerts statewide during the 2026–2028 grant cycle.

The Downtown Maryville Alliance has submitted a proposal to host the concert series in the Charles West Amphitheater at Jack Greene Park, transforming it into a dynamic cultural destination for residents and visitors alike. The proposal is now live on the Levitt Foundation website, where the public can cast their vote to help bring this opportunity to Maryville.

How to Vote

  • Online: Visit levitt.org/vote
  • Text: Send the keyword MARYVILLE to 877-409-5525
  • Voting Period: September 5 at 1 p.m. ET through September 15 at 8 p.m. ET
  • Voters may select up to five proposals

Public voting is a critical component of the selection process, reflecting the Levitt Foundation’s commitment to community-driven programming. The number of votes received will be a key factor in determining the six Tennessee-based finalists, to be announced on November 18, 2025.

“We’re thrilled to be in the running for the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant and excited about the opportunity to bring a free, outdoor concert series to the heart of Maryville,” said Amanda Gillooly, Executive Director of the Downtown Maryville Alliance. “This initiative would not only celebrate the power of live music but also transform an underused public space into a vibrant gathering place for our community. We encourage everyone to vote and help us make this vision a reality—let’s show Tennessee how strong Maryville’s spirit truly is!”

The Downtown Maryville Alliance encourages residents to spread the word and rally support by sharing voting information with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors.

For more information and to cast your vote, visit levitt.org/vote.

Levitt Music Series vote

Downtown Maryville’s Historic Capitol Theatre Has a Speakeasy, the Emerald Room

Posted on December 7, 2017 by - Activities, Blog, Drinking, Maryville

Down a clandestine staircase and through a secret passage is a best-kept-secret, the Emerald Room, modeled after a speakeasy. One of several spaces within Maryville, Tennessee’s Capitol Theatre, this newest addition to the venue conjures images from the 1920s prohibition-era.


The Theatre, located on Maryville’s bustling Broadway Street in the historic downtown area, draws both local residents and those from throughout the region and country.


The venue goes beyond just a theatre space and offers a unique and glamorous venue for wedding receptions and ceremonies, proms, birthdays and small business and corporate events and provides catering and DJ services.


Capitol Theatre Event Director Haley Schweitzer finds the space covers a wide variety of events.
“We have old Hollywood style and vintage ambiance, but events range from traditional weddings and events to themed events like a 1920sparty,” said Schweitzer. “The space lends itself to many different styles and leaves guest smiling and with fun memories they’ll never forget.”


In addition to the theatre space and Emerald Room, the Capitol Theatre offers a balcony and a 1940s-themed Hollywood Lounge. It even has a coffee and ice cream shop, which is open throughout the week to the public.


The coffee and ice cream shop receives frequent foot traffic from those taking a coffee break during work and tourists visiting the Smoky Mountains and enjoying Maryville’s vibrant downtown.


“About 20 percent of our weddings are destination weddings coming from places like Chicago, Charlotte, Atlanta, and even as far away as Seattle,” said Schweitzer. “The uniqueness of the venue, and the beauty and peacefulness of the Smoky Mountains draws them here. The Downtown Maryville location of the coffee and ice cream shop brings foot traffic in, and some of these visitors like our venue so much they book it for their wedding.”


The venue also draws business travelers, with Maryville and the surrounding Blount County area being a prime destination for conferences and corporate events and retreats. A scenic escape, Maryville is 10 minutes from the McGhee Tyson Regional Airport and has access to major highways like I-40, with the larger city of Knoxville just 20 minutes away.


“The attendees at our corporate events have many hotels and accommodations to choose from,” said Schweitzer. “We’re close to the Airport Hilton, but also not far from scenic resorts like Dancing Bear Lodge.”


First built in 1934, the Capitol Theatre was originally a premier entertainment place. The largest of Maryville’s downtown theatres, it sat approximately 1,000 guests. It closed its doors in the 1970s and then housed a number of different businesses. In 2002, it was purchased by the current owner, artist Heath Claiborne, as his art gallery. In 2008, the building underwent a complete renovation aimed at restoring its former look and created an entertainment and event center with state-of-the-art audio and video equipment. Claiborne’s studio and gallery still resides at the Capitol Theatre where visitors can view and purchase his original artwork and reproductions.


The downtown area of Maryville has experienced a revitalization in recent years. Earlier this year, an initiative to renovate the downtown culiminated with the approval of the Tennessee Main Street designation in January. The designation will open up the city to receive training, resource support and grant opportunities that will assist in the downtown area’s revitalization and economic development efforts.


“We love downtown Maryville,” said Schweitzer.”It’s a great location for the Capitol Theatre. We have lot of great restaurants and retailers, and ample parking. We’re excited to be part of the downtown’s history.”


For more information about the Capitol Theatre, or to book an event, visit http://www.bookthecapitol.com/.

Eat Your Way Through the Peaceful Side at These Local Restaurants

Posted on April 15, 2019 by - Blog, Dining

One of the best parts about traveling is the ability to eat and experience new dining options that you don’t have at home. Finding new kinds of cuisines or just a new way to arrange ingredients in a dish can really broaden your culinary horizons.
A vacation to the Peaceful Side of the Smoky Mountains comes with plenty of gastric treats for your taste buds. In this list, you will find some of the amazing local restaurants that you can enjoy when you travel the East Tennessee area.
Maryville Dining Options
Anaba: Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in an Izakaya atmosphere. Seisuke Fukuoka, the head chef, is an expert in Japanese culinary delights. You will find sushi, hibachi, and traditional ramen dishes.
Barley’s: Enjoy excellent food, plenty of beer options, and occasional live music. There are 70 different beers on tap and daily drink specials. They have a full menu that includes items like the Fried Pork Belly appetizer and the Salmon Grit Cakes.
Dockside Grille: If you find yourself at the Tellico Marina, make sure you grab a meal at this great restaurant that offers light lunch options and grilled steaks. There is often live entertainment to round out the experience.
Foothills Milling Co: If you are looking for up-scale fare, head to this farm to fork restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms and businesses. You can find interesting options for your taste buds including the Lamb Meatball appetizer and Tempura Lobster Tails.
Townsend Dining Options
Apple Valley Cafe: Attached to the Apple Valley Country Store, this is a popular spot in Townsend. You can get breakfast or lunch in this establishment, but no matter when you come, the World Famous Apple Pie should be part of your meal.
Burger Master: This historic spot has been serving the residents and tourists for over fifty years. You can get classic fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches. However, the real reason for the visit will definitely be one of the ice-cream desserts!
Little River BBQ: If you want good old fashioned BBQ, then Little River will be right up your alley. Choose from beef, pork, or chicken in your choice of sauce. You can even pick up a family pack to-go for a BBQ picnic.
Richmont Inn: Those staying at the Richmont Inn are in for a treat! In addition to the classic breakfast (included in the price of your room), you will also get a complimentary candlelight dessert each evening at 8 pm. They sometimes offer a four-course fondue dinner as well.  
There are plenty of other dining options in on the Peaceful side too! In Alcoa, you will find the sophisticated Cooper’s, Hot Rod’s 50s Diner, and Shrimp Dock’s seafood. In Walland, there is Becky’s Grocery and Grille, the Snoring Bear Diner, and The Barn and Blackberry Farm. When traveling on the Peaceful Side, you can eat somewhere different for each meal and never have to repeat restaurants! You might want to get your foodie list together before you leave for your trip, you may not be able to decide once you arrive.
 

Enjoy a Driving Tour of Cades Cove with the Family

Posted on June 13, 2018 by - Activities, Blog

Heading out into the wilderness seems simple, but it can be complicated – especially when the whole family, with everyone’s disparate ages and tastes, is heading out together. The teenagers in the group want to tackle a challenging trail, while the older and younger crowds are looking for something that’s a little slower-paced. Grandparents and grandchildren may need stroller and walker accessibility, and some members of the family would just as soon be lounging on the back of a pontoon boat, waiting for the fish to bite. How can you keep everyone together?

Take Everyone on a Drive Through Cades Cove

Anyone coming to the Blount County sections of Great Smoky Mountains National Park who hasn’t heard of Cades Cove is sure to get the scoop eventually. It’s well-known for good reason. The Cove is a broad, green, lush mountain valley in the middle of the Smokies, and one of its most popular destinations.

Cades Cove also includes an 11-mile loop road that circles the Cove in one direction and is open to tourists year-round. Bicyclists and hikers can enjoy it traffic-free every Wednesday and Saturday morning before 10 AM; otherwise it’s “open season” for motorists on driving tours. Taking everyone on a driving tour is a great way to keep the family connected – you’re all in the same car (or caravan!), and you can listen to the music of your choice and chat about the scenery as you cruise past.

What You Might See in Cades Cove

Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cades Cove are famous for wildlife viewing, including white tail deer, coyote, elk, fox, and black bears, as well as groundhogs, turkeys, raccoons, and skunks (be careful!). That’s not all – the loop road has a rich history, as well.

As you drive along the loop road, you can see (or park and walk to) buildings like churches, a working grist mill, log houses, and other buildings from the 19th century that have been restored since being originally built by the area’s first migrants from Europe. Numerous trails are also accessible from the road, so you – or just the more active members of your party – can park and walk off the beaten path for a closer look at some Tennessee wilderness.

Get More Details at the Visitor Center

When planning your drive of the Cades Cove loop road, make sure to dedicate at least 2 to 4 hours for the experience, especially during the summer and fall seasons when traffic can be heavy. Cades Cove is accessible from Laurel Creek Road year-round, and Parson Branch Road or Rich Mountain Road during the warmer months.

Cades Cove also includes a Visitor Center halfway around the loop that features restrooms and a bookstore, as well as trail maps and guides that provide more information on the history of the trail and of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Open every day but Christmas, it’s there to provide visitors with a more educational, immersive, safe and fun Smokies experience.

Enjoy a Peaceful Getaway to Whispering River Resort

Posted on May 28, 2018 by - Activities, Blog, Lodging

Is there anything more relaxing than a winding river on a warm summer’s day? If there is, visitors to Whispering River Resort will be too chilled out to go searching for it. Boasting thousands of feet of access to the Little River, Walland, Tennessee’s Whispering River Resort connects visitors to the beautiful natural environment of the “quiet side of the Smokies.”  
Tents, RVs, and Cabin Renters All Welcome
One of the unique things about the Whispering River Resort is how well it accommodates different kinds of vacationers. Looking for the perfect site to pitch your tent? Whispering River has tent sites with water access, clean, modern bathrooms, hot showers, coin laundry, and a general store.
Need space for your RV? Pull-through, pull-in, and back-in RV sites with hook-ups are available, and RV campers, of course, have access to the same facilities and amenities that tent campers do. However, what if you’re traveling without your own lodging? What then?
Whispering River Resort also has three cabins, 2 that are perfect for couples or small families, and 1 that lets the whole gang get together. The Treehouse sleeps up to 4, and includes an indoor Jacuzzi and outdoor hot tub, kitchen, DVD player and TV, and all of it right up on the riverbank. The Otter House cabin includes all the same amenities, plus a charcoal grill and central A/C. The Lodge sleeps up to 10, and includes a fireplace, large-screen satellite TV, DVD, hot tub, claw-foot bathtub in the master bedroom, and game room with pool table.  
Activities at Whispering River
Not sure what to do while you’re there? It may be because there’s so much to choose from. With convenient river access, this is a great chance to go kayaking, tubing, or fishing. Whispering River also has a playground and a horseshoe pit, volleyball, a pool and a hot tub, and great walking trails along their half-mile of Little River access. Everyone gets access to free WiFi to stay connected, and even “best friends” can join in the fun (pets are allowed at the RV and tent campsites).
All This, and it’s Convenient!
People come to the Smokies region for lots of reasons. Maybe it’s the famous Dollywood amusement park, home to rides, shows, festivals, events, and – oh yeah – a massive water park. Well, it, as well as the sights and sounds of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, are just a 30-minute drive away. Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Tuckaleechee Caverns are even closer, and perfect if you want to focus on the natural beauty that the Smokies are famous for.
A meeting room, club room, and an event center is also available, so if you’re excited to show your coworkers the best of the region and are looking for a place to host your company retreat or seminar, this could be it. Give your crew a shout – it’s time to book your vacation at Whispering River Resort.