If you are wondering where you might travel to enjoy an unforgettable Christmas in the Smokies, you may find that the Peaceful Side offers a surprising array of holiday experiences for people of all ages.
Winterfest
For most, it all begins with the different Winterfest kickoff events that occur in the larger towns of the area. Winterfest is an annual event that sees the region draped in millions of holiday lights and really celebrating the season with all kinds of special events, programs and decorations. The kickoff events usually include parades, such as the Townsend Christmas Parade or the parades in Gatlinburg, Sevierville or Pigeon Forge. In fact, Winterfest is thought to be one of the most anticipated celebrations throughout the entire Smokies region. You can partake of it by following one of the different self-guided auto routes, or you can have just as much fun by staying in the towns. This is because the many different businesses get in on all of the fun and host everything from special food or beverage tastings to entertainment, meetings with Santa and more.
Trolley Rides
As part of the Winterfest experience, you can also enjoy one of the different trolley rides that let you savor the views and hop on or off whenever you see something you’d like to do. The trolleys are affordably priced and you can even find tickets online for some of them. Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland in Kodak (near Sevierville) is a popular destination and offers lots to see and do.
Dollywood
As one of the most family-friendly spots in the country, Dollywood also really shines at Christmas. Guests will meet costumed characters, enjoy a parade of lights, see the “Carol of Trees” and be able to catch a musical show that features Dolly Parton herself (well, a hologram of her!)
Views Galore
Another way to really savor the magical holiday experience in the Smokies is to use one of the destinations that brings travelers far above the towns and lets them get a birds-eye view of the seasonal displays. Ober Gatlinburg is one such example and is the only ski facility in the region. You don’t have to ski to enjoy it, either; you can just take a ride up the aerial tram. There is also the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in Pigeon Forge for a stunning look at the millions of lights. Of course, the views and magical experiences don’t have to be grand and overwhelming. Take the charming Holiday Model Train Exhibit at the GSM Heritage Center in Townsend, with a garden scale train and winter wonderland theme. The Santa Mouse Christmas House Craft Show is also a nice way to see some cheery holiday sights, and the mid-November Holiday Homecoming in Townsend is also a magical way to kick off the season with music, a Christmas village, a visit from Santa, crafts, food and more.
A wedding day is such a significant event, and it is so easy to get caught up in the planning and accommodating of everyone’s wishes that you might neglect your own. While you may find yourself stuck with a larger bridal party than you wanted, or inviting a lot more guests than you intended, you should commit to hosting it in a place of beauty and significance. Your wedding venue is a wonderful way to celebrate in a setting that helps to mitigate your and your future spouse’s stress, tension or nervousness. If the Smokies have a special place in your hearts, it may surprise you to learn of just how many wedding venues are found on the more peaceful side of the Smokies in Blount County, TN.
Where to get married outdoors in the Smokies
For those who are curious about the options, we present a varied collection of sites popular as wedding venues and for other specialty events. The Barn at Meadow Farms Located near Friendsville, TN, The Barn at Meadow Farms is as it is described and offers up a fully finished and remarkably appealing barn with party space well suited to even a large-scale event. The expansive lawns can be used for the wedding itself, and any sort of décor can be used. It has a full kitchen, bridal suites, a fireplace, full bathrooms and more. Heartland Little River Wedding Chapel Looking for adorable? Want a fairy tale setting? Then this is the place. Tucked along the Little River in Townsend and offering one of the most charming settings for a wedding event, it has honeymoon cabins as well as wedding packages of all kinds. Colonial Estate Weddings Located in Maryville, it features natural gardens and stunning views of the Smokies. It is a spot for both the ceremony and reception and features full-service wedding planning. Just nine miles from the Knoxville airport, it is serene and tranquil and promises an unforgettable day. The Lily Barn Set on 100 acres and just five minutes from the Cades Cove entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Townsend, The Lily Barn is a place dedicated to natural beauty and lush gardens. Enjoy the evergreen maze or time your wedding to coincide with the amazing array of lilies and native plants that bloom every year. Book the gazebo and get married by the pond and then host your reception in the charming Lily Barn. Smithview Pavilion Also located in Maryville, this site has an outdoor venue as well as an event hall and it can be an ideal choice as a one-stop destination for rehearsal dinner, wedding, bridal events before the big day, brunch after the big day and more. Pleasant Hill Vineyards Set on a historic farm property less than a half of an hour’s drive from Knoxville (in Maryville), it is a full-service destination with outdoor wedding space for up to 100 guests and indoor event space for more than 300. Enjoy the use of the lawn, wine rooms and more.
Are you looking for a new way to enjoy parts of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park that you simply won’t be able to see from the windows of your car? Interested in finding a way to get out in the fresh air and take trails that go deep into the woods and up to the wildflower-covered meadows that can only be seen from horseback? If you are and you happen to be in the Townsend, TN area, then you need to check out the Davy Crockett Riding Stables located at 505 Old Cades Cove Road. Into the Backcountry There is nothing more relaxing than heading off into the backcountry astride your own mount. Ride into Cades Cove or off into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park at speeds that give you plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, even take pictures if you feel inclined. The Davy Crockett Stables offer instant access to a number of backcountry riding trails in the Smokies. Riding on horseback is a wonderful way to get back in touch with nature while at the same time enjoying some serious high-quality family time. You can experience the trails in much the same manner as the early explorers and mountain men did when they first discovered the area, by traversing the trails on horseback. No Worries About Getting Lost At the Davy Crockett Riding Stables, the finest mountain guides are on duty to ensure you find your way. The guides can answer your questions about the local flora and fauna. Each has countless hours of training and experience that guarantees you will enjoy your ride. During the summer months, you can come for an “on the spot” ride or you can make reservations that guarantee the number of horses you need are ready and available. During the summer, the stables tend to be very busy, so reserving your spot makes good sense, especially if you know when you are going to be in town. Winter Rides Too During the winter months, guided rides are still available, but you must book your ride in advance. Peak season at the Davy Crockett Riding Stables is between March 15th and November 15th. Outside of these dates, reservations are required so be sure to plan your trip and book early. The stables are open 7 days a week from 9 am to 5 pm, and have been in business since 1962, providing tourists and locals with the ultimate horseback riding experience. They offer access to more than 15 miles of trails where you never have to worry about the traffic or crowds; there is nothing to do but sit back and enjoy the journey. At theDavy Crockett Riding Stables in Townsend, TN, you can book your ride for 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1-1/2 hours, 2 hours, or a half day. Bring the whole family and create the kind of vacation memories that are sure to last a lifetime. Come once and we guarantee you will visit again and again.
For anyone who has ever been camping as a child, I would dare to assume one of your favorite activities was roasting marshmallows. If you were really lucky, you turned that roasted yumminess into a classic childhood favorite, the s’more. We sat around the firepit during a recent trip to Dancing Bear Lodge and experimented with their S’more Station. A staff suggestion to switch out the traditional chocolate bar with a piece of Apple Valley fudge, started a journey to up our s’more game a notch, adventuring into the realm of Gourmet S’Mores.
Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend, TN
We Bring you the Gourmet S’more: A Guide to Upgrading Your Next Camping Trip.
Creativity Begins Here
The obvious place to start our campout culinary exploration is the ingredient that ties everything together. So, let’s start with some different options for the base of our s’more. The obvious go-to is the traditional graham cracker, but there are so many other tasty options. Next time try using a chocolate graham cracker, a waffle cookie, or even a chocolate chip cookie. If you want to branch out even further, try out some ginger snaps, snickerdoodles, or Rice Krispie treats. If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, unsalted crackers are ideal. Don’t be afraid to let your inner child guide your creativity.
Put You Inner Child In Charge
Next, we need to add a little variety to our typical chocolate layer. Think bigger. If you’re in the mind of more is always better, substitute plain chocolate with a Reese’s Cup, a Peppermint Patty, or caramel-filled chocolate. You can also use substitute with peanut butter, hazelnut spread, white chocolate, or cookie butter. While we’re at it, let’s shatter the conventional idea of the classic s’more and trade out chocolate for something completely different altogether. If you want an organic or natural option, add sliced fruit. Bananas, strawberries, apples, peaches, and pitted cherries are great healthy options. And as we begin to think about fruit, don’t forget all of your favorite homemade jams. The key is to go crazy and don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings.
Don’t Leave Out The Best Part
We can’t leave out the marshmallows. Beyond the plain marshmallow, feel free to play around with a variety of flavored marshmallows. Some of our favorites are caramel, strawberry, cinnamon, and vanilla. If you enjoy playing in the kitchen, you can prepare homemade flavored marshmallows ahead of time. You can even go wild and dip your marshmallows in chocolate, your favorite crushed cereal, or roasted coconut. Want to blow your kids’ minds, use some Peeps in your gourmet s’more experiment.
To give you a headstart back into your childhood campfire fantasies, we’ve put together a few of our favorite campfire delicacies.
GOURMET S’MORE RECIPES
APPLE VALLEY S’MORE Graham crackers + Apple Valley fudge + marshmallow SPICED LEMON S’MORE Gingersnaps + lemon curd + marshmallow PEACHES & CREAM Honey graham crackers + peaches + white chocolate + marshmallow THE GRASSHOPPER Chocolate graham crackers + Peppermint Patty + marshmallow THE SAMOA Graham crackers + salted caramel-filled chocolate + coconut flakes + marshmallow THE ELVIS Graham crackers + Reece’s Cup + sliced banana + marshmallow THE SUGAR PIG Graham crackers + caramel-filled chocolate + bacon + marshmallow We would love to take all of the credit for all of these fantastic recipes, but we must give credit where credit is due. For these recipes and more s’more insanity, check out the following blog posts:
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 attention, became especially popular as state and national prohibition laws started to take hold across the country. During this time, many moonshiners were forced to either shut down their stills and lose their additional income or find themselves on the wrong side of the law. With the demand for whiskey at a prime, many folks took to the back roads of the Tennessee mountains, spending the rest of their careers avoiding the law. Lucky for us, as whiskey has made a resurgence in popularity, a talented few have taken their family recipes and turned them into legal distilleries across the region.
On Saturday, November 5, 2022, we will celebrate these legendary distillers at our annual Grains & Grits Festival in Townsend, TN. It will be a festival of regional craft spirits and local gourmet cuisine, tucked into the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the Tennessee Distillers Guild members you will be able to sample at the event:
Company Distilling
Old Forge Distillery
Sugarlands Distillery
Old Dominick Distillery
Jack Daniels
George Dickel
H Clark Distillery
Short Mountain Distillery
Leiper’s Fork Distillery
Old Glory Distilling Co.
Bootleggers Distillery
Chattanooga Whiskey
Tennessee Legend Distillery
Post Modern Distillery
Corsair Distillery
Prichard’s Distillery
Ole Smoky
King Family Distillery
Nashville Barrel Company
BR Distilling Company
Gate 11 Distillery
Nashville Craft
Junction 35 Distillery
Big Machine Distillery
The Ring of Fire is Back Again
Michael Sullivan- aka- The Reverend of Fat is excited to bring “The Ring of Fire” to this year’s Grains and Grits Festival. Sullivan is heading up the culinary aspect of the event. “It’s a unique way for attendees to be satiated while enjoying their spirit samples.” Five chefs will encircle a large fire pit where a whole pig, lamb, chickens, and sausages will be roasted and served. Each chef will be paired with a distillery and will incorporate the distillery’s spirit into their dish.
This year, we are honored to have Chef Rubén García take part in the Ring of Fire. Garcia spent years in a 3-star Michelin restaurant, he appeared twice on Iron Chef as the victor and is now the Creative Operating Officer and Founder of UNFOLD Hospitality where he inspires new chefs and leads concept development with restauranteurs to help realize their vision and potential.
Participating Restaurants
American Butcher
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro
The Old Mill Pottery House Café and Grille
City Limits Barbeque
Motor Supply Co. Bistro
AMICI
Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant
Lulu Liquor Cakes
Willy’s Butcher Shop
Junction 35 Spirits
Along with a variety of seasonal gourmet foods, you can also enjoy live music from Pink Cadillac. As one of Nashville’s best party, funk, rock, rhythm & blues, soul, dance band featuring a smoking rhythm & horn section, and topped off with their powerhouse choreographed female vocalists, and rock and soul male lead vocalist. There is something for everyone at the Grains and Grits Festival.
Join us on the Townsend Visitor Center event lawn, from 6:00 – 9:00 pm, for a unique fall tasting experience you can only find in the Great Smoky Mountains.All attendees must be 21 years or older, and the event will take place, rain, or shine. Parking opens at 5:00 pm. For more information about the event, please check out our website at https://grainsandgritsfest.com.
Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend, TN is excited to announce Grammy Award-Winning artists, The Infamous Stringdusters performing “Live on the Lawn” on Thursday, July 7th, 2022 @ 7:30 pm. This will be an intimate concert event, with only 500 tickets available. The show will open with the Sweet Lillies.
Dancing Bear Lodge boasts an outdoor event venue and has created the most intimate concert setting on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. “We are excited to host a band as popular as the Stringdusters on our unique Lawn,” says Director of Operations Houston Oldham, “Our venue is one of the most incredible spaces in the Smokies. Guests will get to enjoy the show on an amphitheater style lawn, but with less than 500 people. You won’t get to see the Stringdusters like this again!”
The optional pre-show dinner will be an Appalachian BBQ theme, featuring house smoked baby back ribs, brisket, pulled pork, white BBQ chicken, and an array of Southern-style fixings. The meal will be prepared on site using fresh vegetables from the property gardens and locally sourced and in-house smoked meats and ingredients.
The Infamous Stringdusters will be debuting their 2022 Album release “Into The Fray” Inspired by self reflection and a strong sense of solidarity, the project documents the Grammy Award-winning group’s remarkable growth as instrumentalists as well as songwriters. Released on their own label, Americana Vibes, the collection also firmly establishes the band’s stature on the modern acoustic music landscape, where they’ve built a solid and enduring fan base among traditional and progressive audiences alike.
Tickets are currently available online at www.dancingbearlodge.com. For more information on the concert and ticket options, please visit here.
The Smokies region is beautiful, but there’s something extra special about seeing it with your best friend by your side. Just you and them, enjoying the sights and sounds of Eastern Tennessee, first through your own eyes, and then through their perspective. The crisp, clean air, the sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, the smell of the pine trees, the fresh scent of the grass, the strong odor of animals who have been there before you, the gray of the plants, the darker gray of the trees… Oh, didn’t we mention? Your best friend just happens to be a dog! Unfortunately for them – and despite the fact that they are some of the most enthusiastic hikers – pets aren’t allowed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (except for two small trails outside of Blount County) for reasons having to do with wildlife preservation. Thankfully, there are other options; you don’t have to leave your best friend behind to get some outdoor recreation. Check out these trails and get ready for your next great walk together!
The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway
The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway is a 9-mile trail that goes through both towns, offering a pleasant walk and access to 4 different parks in Maryville and 2 in Alcoa. It also offers links to the business and shopping districts in the towns, as well as picnic pavilions, natural areas, and fitness stations. The experience is pleasant and relaxed, with meandering streams here and there, and trails that are well-maintained and clearly-marked for different distances and directions, with water fountains and pet waste cleanup stations scattered throughout. While you’re on the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, don’t forget to visit the Petsafe Dog Park, which is Maryville’s first public dog park. The hours are from dawn to dusk every day, with a half acre for small dogs and a full acre for larger canines. There’s also a pavilion, benches, a dogs-only water fountain, and an unleashing area.
The Look Rock Tower Trail
The Look Rock Tower Trail is a short hike (perfect for smaller dogs!) of just under a mile. The trail includes an observation tower that allows human and canine hikers to take in some lovely views of the western side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well the Maryville and Alcoa areas. Dogs are allowed, of course, but they have to be kept on leash, and it’s popular with families and kids. This paved trail is a great alternative to the non-dog-friendly Clingmans Dome trail in the National Park.
The Tremont Logging History Auto Tour
The Tremont Logging History Auto Tour is a unique trail that runs along three miles of gravel road, just south of Townsend, Tennessee. It’s actually a historical site – there was once a logging town there, around the 1900s. Dogs on leash are allowed, but so is horseback riding, and look out for drivers – when they say auto tour, they mean that you can take your car on the trail (and what dog doesn’t love a good car ride?). If you’d prefer, you can actually drive the trail, park, and get out and enjoy the streams with your dog. If you do decide to walk the trail, it’s 6.1 miles altogether. Wherever you and your best friend go together, make sure you’re ready for beautiful scenery, clean air, and all the natural beauty of the Smokies region that Blount County has to offer!
With attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; Ober Gatlinburg; University of Tennessee athletics; and Dollywood; hundreds of hiking trails and fishing areas; a seasonably mild climate and as much shopping as one could ask for, it is no surprise that East Tennessee has become a popular tourist destination in the Southeast.
While much of the region’s tourism can be attributed to these well-known, popular attractions and amenities, there are some “under the radar” places that are peaking people’s interests across the country and having a positive impact on East Tennessee’s tourism industry. One of those is Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson (SMH-D) in Maryville, Tenn.
When Scott Maddux opened Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson dealership more than 11 years ago; he envisioned a place where his passion for motorcycles and music could come together. Little did he know, the 60,000 sq. ft. vacant Lowe’s home improvement store building he purchased, near the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, would become the tourist destination that it is today.
Since its inception, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson has been a different breed of motorcycle dealerships. From its proximity to “The Dragon,” the popular and internationally famous 11-mile, two-lane, 318-curve mountain pass along the Tennessee-North Caroline state line; the modern rustic design of its expansive showroom; to its vibrant music venue and restaurant known as The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint, located on-property and featuring live shows every Saturday night; both riders and non-riders have helped transform the dealership into a regional landmark and social hangout.
There’s a unique vibe at SMH-D that rings of East Tennessee, and it’s being noticed by tourists from all parts of the country who make the dealership a key stop on their visit to East Tennessee each year, regardless of whether they ride a motorcycle.
“From the day we opened our doors, we’ve tried to create a real sense of community here,” says Scott Maddux, Owner of Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson. “To us, it’s not about selling motorcycles. It’s about promoting a certain lifestyle and helping people experience the freedom and kinship that only comes from being a rider. I think people appreciate that.”
As an extension of this commitment, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson has developed a free program called Rider Guest Services, which is designed to assist group ride planners interested in visiting East Tennessee with recommended riding routes and preferred lodging, dining and entertainment options.
Here are some additional facts and figures that speak to Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson’s potential impact on East Tennessee tourism:
• Visited by riders from all 48 contiguous states and around the world.
• More than 200 musicians have performed on the stage of The Shed, including Blackberrry Smoke, Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson, Kentucky Headhunters, John Hiatt, Drive By Truckers, and Leon Russell, among others.
• Served as the rally point for more than 100 charity/community rides.
• The list of celebrities that have visited SMH-D includes: Rusty Wallace, Bill Francis, David Keith, Little Big Town, Kyle Petty, Albert Haynesworth, Phillip Fulmer, Herb Brooks, Bruce Pearl, and multiple NASCAR drivers.
• Set the Guiness World Record in 2006 for the “World’s Largest Simultaneous Motorcycle Burnout” with 213 participating motorcycles.
Today, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson is the top Harley-Davidson dealer in Tennessee and is considered one of the top dealers in the Harley-Davidson network for sales, service and merchandise. What started as one dealership with 25 employees has grown to a family of three dealerships and three retail stores proudly serving East Tennessee with 250 employees and locations in Maryville, Pigeon Forge, Kodak, Gatlinburg, US-129 The Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway.
SMH-D is just one example of the many “hidden gems” that are impacting the region’s tourism efforts.
To learn more about Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson, visit www.smh-d.com.
The Great Smoky Mountains are truly a nature lover’s paradise, and the best way to explore this incredible area in Tennessee is on foot. One of the great things about Blount County is that there are plenty of day hiking trails that are ideal for the whole family, including the little ones. When you decide to take small children out for a hike, be sure you choose trails that are less strenuous, and pack plenty of snacks and water. Here are three of our favorite day hikes in the Smokies that are perfect for your little ones. The Trail to Abrams Falls The Abrams Falls trail starts out in Cades Cove and covers a total of 5.2 miles by the time you make the round trip. The cool thing about this trail is that it is listed as moderate in difficulty, which makes it perfect for most kids. You can even backpack the littlest members of your family if needed. Following the trail takes you across several footbridges until you reach the falls that drop 20 feet down a rocky slope. Be sure you prepare your kids for the few rougher areas of terrain you will encounter, then enjoy the many forms of wildlife you might be lucky enough to see on your hike, especially black bears. The Schoolhouse Gap Trail If you are a lover of wildflowers, you simply must take your family along the Schoolhouse Gap Trail during the spring months. Spring is the time of year when the incredible wildflowers that grow in the Smoky Mountains are at their peak beauty. Your kids will love this 3.8-mile trail with its gentle climb. The trail is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers just getting started on what may become a lifelong hobby. The trail runs along a creek, which, once it warms up, is an excellent place for your kids to cool off and splash around in. As you walk along, you can see glimpses of the mountain peaks through the trees. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway If you prefer a paved trail, the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway may be just what you are looking for. It runs close to the city and winds its way through schools, shopping centers, parks, and places to stop for a picnic. There are lots of places to take a break from the trail, perfect for when your kids need something new to keep them occupied. The trail passes through vast expanses of greenery and over several tiny hills, which are sure to delight the younger members of your family as you walk along. This is the perfect hike for those who want to enjoy a nice walk without having to be out in the woods. Blount County offers a number of hiking trails that meet the needs of hikers at all skill levels. They make a great way to get your family out in the fresh air and sunshine. Try different trails each time and experience all the Great Smoky Mountains and Blount County have to offer you and your family.
Are you already thinking about the autumn season and all of the fun and beauty it brings? If so, you might also be thinking of a visit to The Smokies. The autumn months are an amazing time of year, with the first colors showing up high in the mountains and slowly moving to the valleys below. The changing tree colors last for weeks and is the #1 reason to pay an autumn visit to the area. Yet, there are many other reasons that millions of people visit the region, during the fall and all year long, but we’d like to remind you of seven great reasons you’ll be glad you made the choice to pay a visit this fall. #2 The Weather While the weather is cooling down quite quickly in the northern parts of the country, the fall months remain remarkably comfortable well into October. That means you can get outdoors without worrying about bundling up, wearing all kinds of rain gear or freezing your way through a day of hiking. In fact, the weather is so pleasant that you can spend days and days outdoors, enjoying the National Park, visiting the attractions of the region or sitting back on a porch (cabin rentals are a great option for accommodations in the region) and savoring the scenery. Because many people associate October and November with cold weather, it is a time without crowds, but also a time of great conditions in the woods and town. #3 The Food Harvest season is always great no matter where you live, but in The Smokies, it is simply unforgettable. Apples, cider, any number of fruits and veggies, pies, different meats and, of course, the delicious spirits that are such a part of the history of the region all appear in food festivals and shops. #4 And About Those Fairs and Festivals… The autumn season is a great time for different festivals and events. While the farmers markets and other ongoing activities are still around, you can also enjoy the region’s Oktoberfest – which is a five-week event – as well as the street festivals of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. #5 The Wildlife With fewer crowds arriving in October, you’ll have a much greater chance at spotting wildlife whether from a car or on foot. This is the time of year when lots of visitors see everything from wild turkeys to full-grown bears fattened up for the winter. In Blount County, you’ll find that a stroll along the rivers and fields often means lots of rabbits nibbling up the last of the year’s greens. #6 The Scenery Not only do fewer crowds mean better chances at spotting wildlife, but the natural setting is also less crowded. You’ll enjoy lots of peace and quiet when you do any hiking, and this is most definitely the time of year to visit the different waterfalls and scenic overlooks, all set against the backdrop of beautiful, autumnal yellows, oranges, and reds. #7 The Foothills Parkway, Clingmans Dome, and the Rest There is little that will compare to the views of fall foliage and the beauty of the season than your visits to the many scenic spots. The drive along the Foothills Parkway, through Cades Cove, up to the top of Clingmans Dome, and even places like the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel or the Ober Gatlinburg, are all fantastic places to savor the scenery at this majestic time of year.
If you are a curious tourist, there are many unique hidden treasures in the Peaceful Side. While you’re visiting, don’t miss out on these local gems such as the Faerie Knoll, Rutherford’s Farm, the Townsend Abbey, Hot Rods 50’s Diner, and much more. See the full list below.
Address: 1509 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804
Quoted as “Blount County’s home of Counter Culture,” The Bird & The Book is a great place to find unity through diversity. This friendly neighborhood pub offers a fantastic menu, a variety of craft beers, and a wine list that won’t break the budget. Check out their Facebook page to see what’s on the calendar when you are in town. It could be a drag show, live music, a comedy show, trivia night, wrestling, community theater, or a book release…the possibilities are limitless.
Address: 2601 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804
Hours: 6:00am – Donuts Run Out (Tues-Sat)
Ricky Kreme has been a staple in Blount County since 1939. Their doughnuts offer a variety of new flavor combinations, as well as everyone’s favorites, but you need to get there early because they don’t last long.
Townsend Abbey is a renovated wedding chapel located on the Little River. Their outdoor seating area overlooks the river, allowing customers to watch tubers lazily float their summers away. Most weekends, the outside area offers entertainment like cornhole, Connect-4, and live music (cover free). They offer the finest local craft beers paired with pizza, sandwiches, small bites, and shareable medium plates. They also offer dinner specials each weekend and have been voted “Trip Advisor Top Ten Percent of Restaurants in the World” in 2020 and 2021. This hidden gem is the perfect stop for some refreshments after a day of hiking the Smokies.
Hot Rods is a throwback to simpler times, with its 50’s style decor, including neon lights, pinball machines, and superb service. This family-owned and operated diner offers over 80 different burgers cooked and prepared daily, including vegan options. Click here to see a full menu.
Smoky Mountain “Faerie Knoll“
Where: Hidden off of Twin Creek Trail
Twin Creek Trail is a reasonably easy 4.5-mile hike out and back and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. Unfortunately, because of our promise to the faeries, we can’t tell you exactly where their home is, so you’ll have to do a little exploring to find it.
Hours: Produce available April – December (Mon-Sat)
Rutherford’s Farm started in 1976 with one produce field but has grown to four and offers some of the freshest produce available. They estimate strawberries will be ready to pick 3 to 4 days around April 20th. In addition to strawberries, their Spring season should have green onions, broccoli, cauliflower, green and purple cabbage, various lettuces, beets, zucchini, and yellow crook-neck squash. They also provide beans, tomatoes, and corn during the Summer season, and greens and sweet potatoes in the Fall. For more information, click on their name above for their Facebook page.
If you are looking for something a little different on your trip to the Smokies, we recommend trying a pottery class. Studio 212 offers one-time Saturday classes called “Try A Pot,” allowing a spin at the pottery wheel. They also offer private parties where you create and take home one piece of handcrafted pottery. Private parties must include a minimum of 6 people but no more than 16. Click on their name above to get info to schedule classes before your visit.
Address: 1813 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801
Hours: By Appointment
Need a break from the family while visiting the Peaceful Side of the Smokies? Why not embrace your extreme side and get rid of some of that frustration by smashing things? Click on their name above and see which of their six Rage Packages fits your needs.
Two generations of the Birkholz and Reed families founded Cades Cove Cellars, offering 80 years of combined experience in the winemaking industry. The team has been working together for 12 years, keeping fresh fruit and trusted recipes at the heart of their process. The tasting room was crafted with all local materials, and their hospitality offers a sense of home away from home. The very popular Icewater Springs is April’s wine of the month, which is a blend of locally grown Seyval Blanc grapes and sweet strawberries. Click on their name above for more information.
Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am – 5:00pm, Sun 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Birch & Twine is a fairly new addition to the Peaceful Side. They offer many unique gifts, allowing visitors to take a little piece of the Smoky Mountains home.
The Golden Age 1942 is a comic book store for everyone. They stock comics of all types, host events to celebrate the genre, have a game room available for D&D adventures, and offer memorabilia of all kinds. This place is a must-do when you are in the area.
Address: 564 N Foothills Plaza Dr, Maryville, TN 37801
Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00am – 5:30pm, Sat 10:00am – 4:00pm
Hoo La La Vintage started with three friends in a garage turning unloved pieces of furniture into one-of-a-kind treasures. And that’s what you will find, a unique gift and home décor destination that exemplifies the southern hospitality you expect from the Peaceful Side.
Hours: Tues-Sat 11:00am – 5:00pm, Sun 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Bigfoot Popcorn is the brainchild of two high school friends, looking to make some money while still in college. Since Bigfoot is known to avoid crowds, it only makes sense that they made their home on the Peaceful Side. Try their signature flavor, Bigfoot Poop, when stopping in for a vintage soda or looking for their retro candy selection.
Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am – 6:00pm, Sun 1:00om -6:00pm
Located in the Old Cherokee Lumber Company, this nostalgic building with its different angles, beams, and open structural layout was the perfect location. The Shoppes at Homespun creates an ideal home for the wonderful vintage and country primitives, antiques, and home decor found inside.
The Shoppes at Homespun
For more exciting things to do, check out a few upcoming events in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.
Maryville College plays host to the annual Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games every May. The home of the fighting Scots seems an appropriate venue for this event, although many of the attendants would say that pairing the words “fighting” and “Scots” is entirely redundant.
The festivities commenced on Friday night at the opening gala. People traveled from various states to be present, many having done so for as long as 20 years, and wear the tartans of their clans. This event celebrated the history and culture of the Scots who came through Wilmington, North Carolina, and settled in this area. Their descendants remained intimately connected with their heritage, and for many these games served as a family reunion.
The gala set the tone for the weekend, combining levity and gravity. Robert Valentine, this year’s compére or Master of Ceremonies, invited laughter with jokes about Scottish temperaments, as well as reverence with reminders of Scottish courage and innovation. Later the haggis was marched in, led by the piper and followed by the armed guard, and blessed by a recitation of Robert Burns’ “Address to a Haggis.” And of course the evening would not be complete without a whiskey toast.
A theme of the night, and the whole weekend, was the importance of cultural heritage. A person may belong to many histories and cultures, and there is joy and strength in celebrating them (in this case particularly if one of them is Scottish). With the ease of connectivity nowadays, actively pursuing one’s roots or engaging with other cultures has never been more readily possible or desirable.
As he spoke, the Chief of Clan Skene, the honored clan of this year’s Smoky Mountain games, expressed his hope that Scottish Americans would not limit their political interests to their country of residence; he wanted very much for the Scots across the pond to take an active interest in contemporary Scotland. And the invitation to connection and possibility was not restricted by genealogy. As Robert Valentine said in his address, “If you’re at the Scottish games this weekend, you’re Scots. Welcome home.”
On Saturday, the games opened to the public. Most people showed up in their kilts, but those that didn’t have one need not worry—there are plenty for sale. Food was even more plentiful. For those who’ve never tasted Scottish treats like haggis or deep-fried Snickers, this was the chance to do so. The bakery tent was especially busy, as was the beer tent. Clans had set up stands where visitors could come and learn about their families, and some have even been known to “adopt.”
At noon, massed bands of pipes and drums officially opened the Scottish games. This was truly a sight and sound to behold. Dozens of bagpipes accompanied by snares and basses: there’s just nothing else like it. As they played and marched with the Smokies in the background, these musicians brought the Highlands to the foothills.
Other exceptional exhibits include sheepdog demonstrations and, of course, the sports. Both were displays of incredible dedication. Everything at the Scottish games was remarkable, but one event that was especially outstanding was the caber toss. Athletes lifted an enormous tapered pole and launched it into the air. The goal was to have the top of the caber rotate to land on the ground, and it was clearly extremely difficult.
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