Things to Do!

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. It offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. Large numbers of white-tailed deer are frequently seen, and sightings of black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, skunk, and other animals are also possible. An 11-mile, one-way loop road circles the cove, offering motorists the opportunity to sight see at a leisurely pace. Allow at least two to four hours to tour Cades Cove, longer if you walk some of the area's trails. Traffic is heavy during the tourist season in summer and fall and on weekends year-round. While driving the loop road, please be courteous to other visitors and use pullouts when stopping to enjoy the scenery or view wildlife. A visitor center (open daily), restrooms, and the Cable Mill historic area are located half-way around the loop road. For more information, visit the National Park Website, https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/cadescove.htm.

Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

Located in the peaceful gateway community of Townsend, Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center celebrates the history of East Tennessee and the Smoky Mountains and is dedicated to preserving the region's unique culture. Through an assortment of artifacts dating from 3000 B.C. to the 1930's, visitors catch a glimpse of Native American life and its pottery, hunting weapons, ceremonial dress, and masks representing the Cherokee seven clans. Visitors can learn about both Native American and Auro-American life through three-dimensional displays, interactive exhibits, media presentations, and a historic village of authentic log cabins, cantilever barns, underground still house, sawmill, wheelwright shop, church, smokehouse, and more. Call 865-448-0044 or visit https://www.gsmheritagecenter.org/.

Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum

In the early 1900's, a busy railroad operated in the Smoky Mountains, bringing tourists to the area and taking thousands of trees out. The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum tells the story of the area's logging history with hundreds of photographs, restored equipment and interpretive exhibits. Railroad buffs enjoy seeing one-of-a-kind locomotives and logging machinery and visiting with volunteer staffers rich with the knowledge of the old railroad's operations. An expansion project includes a refurbished water tower, replica passenger platforms, and a restored set-off house that shows how life was lived atop mountain ridges while logging operations were underway. For more information, call 865-661-0170 or visit https://littleriverrailroad.org/.

Tennessee River Monsters

There is nothing like a screaming bait-clicker or the jolting explosion of a top-water bait. Whether you choose to fish for catfish or stripers, at every turn, Tennessee River Monsters embraces your passion for Trophy fish. Their preparation and dedication to providing you an unforgettable adventure is evident the moment you step on the boat. They are a Veteran-Owned guide service and have been featured in over 25 magazines and TV Show like BoatUS, Country Living Magazine, and CBS Sports over the past four years. We are licensed by the US Coast Guard, the State of Tennessee, and fully insured. You can visit http://tennesseestriperfishinguide.com/home for more information, email tennesseerivermonsters@yahoo.com, or call or text Captain Scott at 865-680-7672 if you have any questions.

The River Rat

Enjoy a day of fun TUBING down Little River, one of the most scenic rivers in the Smokies. Two outposts to choose, depending on age and experience, or float them both for no additional charge! Tubes and life jackets furnished. Group rates available. Picnic spots, changing rooms, and restrooms all on campus! Call 865-448-8888 or visit https://smokymtnriverrat.com/ for more information.

Hiking

Enjoy hiking your way through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are over 300 trails with differing difficulty to meet everyones needs. Check out this website for more information: Click Here

Biking Trails

Located in Townsend, this 14-mile trail network is exciting and fun for all ages and abilities. With four distinct zones for riding, everyone can find an experience tailored to them. From the skills area to the jump trails, and up to the mountain trails, Vee Hollow is the kind of place where you can pedal into nature, find adventure, and progress your mountain bike skills as far as you want to go. Click here for more info.

WEDDINGS!

There are many places in the Smokies to have a beautiful wedding to fit your needs. From elopements to large family weddings for up to 250 guests, you are sure to find exactly what you need.

Harpers Vineyard

Centrally located in Townsend, Harpers Vineyard is an absolutely beautiful venue to celebrate the beginning of the rest of your life. With space to entertain approximately 120 guests, this space is gorgeous and will make a great wedding back drop.

Call or Text 865-806-2842 - 338 Webb Road, Townsend, Tennessee 37882, United States, www.harpersvineyard.com

RESTAURANTS!

Trailhead Steak & Trout

Steaks, burgers, trout & other American classics served in a rustic, lodgelike setting. 7839 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882 Restaurant Website

Peaceful Side Social Brewery & Craft Kitchen

Peaceful Side Social Brewery + Craft Kitchen is Townsend, TN's newest restaurant and taproom featuring a chef driven menu, served fast-casual style. 7967 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882 Restaurant Website

Black Bear Cafe

No-frills, old-fashioned diner preparing traditional, homestyle Southern specialties. Open Seasonally 7621 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882 Restaurant Website

The Riverstone Restaurant

Down-home American grub in a rustic, wood-paneled dining room with a fireplace & Old West vibe. 8503 TN-73, Townsend, TN 37882

Dan Good Foods at the Carriage House

American family dining, quick grab fuel for when you’re on the run. 8310 TN-73 Scenic, Townsend, TN 37882

Little River Pub & Deli

A perfect place to chill by the river and sip a craft beer! 7503 W Old Hwy 73, Townsend, TN 37882 Restaurant Website

Good Vibes "On the River" Restaurant & Bakery

7613 W Old Hwy 73, Townsend, TN 37882

The Abbey at the Heartland Chapel

7765 River Rd, Townsend, TN 37882. Restaurant Website

Clark's Deli & Sweets, Inc.

Daily lunch specials & hot & fresh donuts. 7717 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882

Pizza Hut

Family-friendly chain known for its made-to-order pizzas. 7955 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882 Restaurant Website

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro

“Dancing Bear Lodge is home to the Appalachian Bistro, where comfort food classics paired with the breathtaking beauty all around will make you want to sit a spell and soak it all in. 137 Apple Valley Way, Townsend, TN 37882 Restaurant Website

The Chocolate B'ar of Townsend

Order decadent, handmade confections from the comfort of home. Visit our online shop today! 7807 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882. Restaurant Website

Apple Valley Mountain Village & Cafe

Quaint, barnlike building housing a general store, rustic gift shop & cafe with a burger bar. 7138 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882 Restaurant Website